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Assistant Principals' Report

Rae Gittos & Matt Kirkright

Making it Count! 100% Attendance

At Whittlesea Primary School, we know that every day counts. Regular school attendance plays a vital role in supporting students’ academic progress, social development, and overall wellbeing. Being at school each day helps students stay connected, build strong relationships, and fully engage in their learning. We are proud to recognise and celebrate the students who have achieved 100% attendance this term. This is a fantastic accomplishment that reflects commitment, resilience, and a positive attitude towards learning (please see our Years 3-6 recipients below)

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Achieving perfect attendance is no small feat. It requires consistent effort from students and strong support from families in prioritising school attendance each day. We thank our families for their ongoing partnership in ensuring students arrive at school ready to learn.

Congratulations to all of our 100% attendance award recipients. You have set a wonderful example for your peers, and we are incredibly proud of your dedication.

A Focus on High-Quality Learning Environments

Over the coming week, our leadership team will be completing learning focused on entry and exit routines, along with student line-up expectations. These are important components of creating calm, predictable and productive learning environments where every student is ready to learn.

 

Research consistently shows that well-established classroom routines reduce unnecessary cognitive load by allowing students to focus their attention on learning rather than on what they should be doing next. When expectations are explicit, practised and consistent across classrooms, students experience greater psychological safety, improved engagement and increased time on task.

 

As a school, we are committed to continually refining our practice to ensure every classroom provides a consistent and supportive learning environment. While these routines may seem simple, they play a significant role in helping students develop independence, self-regulation and readiness to learn. By focusing on these practices, we continue to strengthen the conditions that allow all students to thrive.

ICAS - What is it?

We are pleased to offer selected Year 5 & 6 students the opportunity to participate in the ICAS this year. ICAS is an internationally recognised program developed by UNSW Global that provides students with engaging academic challenges across a range of subject areas. ICAS assessments are designed to extend students beyond the classroom by focusing on higher-order thinking, problem-solving, and the application of knowledge. Students at Whittlesea Primary School are participating in the subjects of English, Mathematics, and  Digital Technologies.

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All assessments are completed online, and students receive a detailed report outlining their strengths and areas for growth. Certificates are awarded to recognise achievement, including High Distinction, Distinction, Credit, and Participation.

 

Participation in ICAS is a wonderful opportunity for students to challenge themselves and celebrate their learning.