Principal's Report

Welcome David Hall - Acting Principal

As you may be aware Sherril is currently taking personal leave from Monday 22 April until the end of this term.  Mr David Hall is the Acting Principal in her absence. 

David is an extremely experienced member of the Principal class and has a long-standing connection with our school. 

The majority of Davids teaching career has been in secondary settings, and he is very excited to learn where it really all begins, David started his teaching career at Melbourne High School, an academically selected school in South Yarra. In 2000, he and his wife, Megan moved to Penang to start, what would eventually be 11 years of teaching abroad.

In 2002, David moved to the International School of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. His two children, Joshua and Ruby, would be born in District 7, HCMC. Returning to Melbourne in 2006, David worked in a leadership position at Haileybury College, while his children would eventually attend BNPS.  Although spending only a few years at BNPS, both Joshua and Ruby maintain strong friendships with some of the alumni from this amazing school. David and Megan would take the family to South Korea, Jeju Island, and then on to Singapore where both completed their PYP journeys. 

Upon his return to Melbourne in 2018, David would join Sandringham College as their Campus Principal. Davids experience in the secondary school settings will provide us with an insight into the expected curriculum standards from Years 7-10 which will add depth to our current Scope and Sequence planners. David experience in overseas PYP settings will strengthen our connections with schools in the IB World. 

Acting Principals Report

The Red Carpet

I hope this newsletter finds you well as we step into term 2 together. I'm honoured to step into the role of Acting Principal during this term, and I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for the warm, red carpet, welcome I've received from both the staff and the students since my arrival.

From first impression, the vibrancy and spirit of BNPS are truly something special. From the infectious laughter echoing through the corridors to the genuine eagerness to learn, it's evident that this school holds a unique charm that sets it apart. It is the same feeling that I got from this amazing school when my own children were here over a decade ago.

As I settle into my new role, I've been delighted to discover the strong foundation upon which BNPS stands. Our recent performances in NAPLAN reflect not only the dedication of our students, but also the unwavering support and guidance provided by our incredible teaching staff. It's clear that we not only have a healthy heart but also a solid head on our shoulders, ready to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

However, as with any journey, there's always room for growth and improvement. While I may be new to the BNPS community, I'm eager to learn more about this remarkable school and its intricacies. Over the coming weeks, I look forward to immersing myself in our school culture, getting to know your children, and gaining insights into how we can continue to enhance the educational experience we offer.

Collaboration and connection are two key skills for life at high school (something I know a good deal about) and the PYP continues to highlight both the importance of interconnectedness but also the inherent skill behind it. Together, we can build upon the strong foundation laid before us and continue to nurture this environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. As we embark on this journey together, know that my door is always open, and I'm here to listen, support, and work alongside you all.

ANZAC Day service

I was thrilled to see how respectful and thoughtful our BNPS community were when we came together on Wednesday 24 April to acknowledge the spirit of the ANZACs, the sacrifices of all those that have lost their lives to war, and to acknowledge those who are currently within our armed forces.  

The Year 6 team, both staff and students, hosted the event beautifully and the younger year levels were wonderfully behaved. It was a privilege to be able to sit down with returned servicemen; Grant Coltman-Smith who not only addressed the assembly, but also made time for a Q & A with some of our grade 6 students.  His time and kindness were greatly appreciated.

In closing, I want to express my sincere appreciation for your continued support and dedication to the BNPS community. 

With gratitude,

David Hall

Acting Principal, BNPS

The Outcome Of The Fete

We are THRILLED to announce the outcome of our Fete. Our Fete raised a profit of $65,000!!!!!  That is an outstanding outcome!! 

However, the best part of the day was seeing our whole community come together and have an amazing time!  The smiles on everyone’s faces were priceless.

We want to take the opportunity to thank all of the volunteers, particularly the stall holders who lead the charge on their individual stalls and our wonderful staff who were amazing helping on stalls and volunteering to be dunked. 

A massive thank you to the members of the Fete Committee who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to pull the day together.  Given none of us had planned a Fete before it was a daunting task – but at the end of the day we had fun doing it and working together. 

Funds will go towards the rejuvenation of our oval; we are already pulling together quotes and plans for the upgrades and repairs needed.

Harmony Day

Last term we celebrated Harmony and International Neurodiversity Week. This culminated in a whole school lunch and dance party on the oval.

Volunteers

A parent volunteer roster system operates each Canteen Day to assist our BNPS employed Canteen Manager, Jenny Marashli. The Canteen is staffed by volunteers – parents, grandparents and friends of the students and their families (as long as they have a Working with Children Check!).

CANTEEN Volunteer Sign in Sheet Term 2, 2024

We aim to make Canteen Duty a happy, relaxed, enjoyable time for all!

It is lovely to see our dads also helping out in

the canteen :)

Celebrating Our Students

As part of a new initiative, we are looking to further recognise and celebrate the students who demonstrate positive actions and learning behaviours that are aligned with our inclusive school values and the following Primary Years Program Learner Profile Attributes.

• Inquirers
• Open Minded
• Knowledgeable
• Thinkers
• Communicators
• Principled
• Caring
• Risk Taker
• Balanced
• Reflective 

When students exemplify an action aligned with one of these learner profile attributes, a brief description of positive feedback will be sent through compass directly to parents. 

The goal of this is to enhance student motivation, model characteristics of global citizens and celebrate positive engagement within the school community. It is expected that a third of students may receive positive feedback throughout Term 2. Our regular positive approach to student learning and our focus on celebrating the amazing young people in our care will continue. 

Our Sustainability Captain - Maddie

Maddie was planting mangrove seed pods and picking up beach litter in Fiji, Yunaca island during her holiday. Taking her Sustainability and I sea I care roles very professionally.

Well, done Maddie! 

Walk to School

Walk to School Day is Friday10 May, 2024. This day aims to develop exercise routines for children, promote increased intake of nutrient-dense diets, and cause a positive environmental action by decreasing carbon emissions from driving to school. The key aim, however, is to familiarize young children with road safety rules.