Assistant Principals' Report
Hello and welcome to our newsletter item for this week.
Duke the Groodle
Last week we shared a newsfeed through Compass for our foundation and new families to the school with the link below taking you to a short survey.
This survey can be completed by any of our families. We know circumstances can change with students understanding and needs around dogs. The information will help guide his work around the school.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdWA4R29t6oSDuwhxNsZkyYWtK2hzl2EgvsJ81Ey8oZcsVtMA/viewform
Duke has been our wellbeing dog since May 2023. He has had special training to be a school dog. Even though he is a large dog he is very gentle, sensitive, intuitive and affectionate.
If you have any questions about Duke or his role at the school, please reach out.
Through our work with Dogs Connect we know there is strong evidence that dogs in schools can help all of our community; students, families and staff. A few years ago we participated in training at the school some staff and Duke's handler (me)!!
The presence of a dog, when integrated with structure and understanding, can profoundly shift a community’s emotional tone and relational culture. Duke has been known to assist with emotional regulation, increased engagement, social connection and learning through work in classrooms and at clubs, reducing anxiety and just being a great four legged friend to many in need.
A cute photo of Duke reading his latest book titled, 'Dog Man' By Dav Pilkey.
Bike Safety
Wearing a helmet when riding a bike or scooter to school is compulsory, and at all other times as well. Thank you to all those students wearing their helmets to and from school. I have included a link below with some helpful hints on bicycle and scooter safety from Raising Children Network
Harmony Day
On Saturday March 21st we will celebrate Harmony Day in Australia to align with the United Nations' International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (IDERD). It focuses on celebrating Australia's multicultural diversity and fostering inclusion, emphasising shared values like respect and belonging for everyone. Next Friday March 20th we will wear a splash of orange to celebrate Harmony Day. The theme for Harmony Week 2026 (March 16–22, 2026) is "Everyone Belongs". Please see the link below for more information and resources. https://www.harmony.gov.au/
Have a great weekend and week ahead.
Helen Thomas & Monique Rankin
Assistant Principals
Heidelberg Primary School