Student Leadership

A MESSAGE FROM OUR SCHOOL CAPTAINS 

Wow, can you believe we are graduating? 

Looking back on all the amazing memories we've created together, from our camps to the school production and the school fete. First walking through the gates of the school we were excited but also very nervous. We have grown together, learnt together and built friendships that will last a lifetime. Thank you all for an amazing year and a primary school experience we will never forget. 

To the community of Ripponlea thank you for supporting us on our journey of leadership. We wish the students of Ripponlea all the best for 2025. 

-Pearl & Fraser 

A MESSAGE FROM OUR VICE-CAPTAINS

As the year of 2024 comes to an end our grade 6's remember all the memories, moments and friends they made. We loved all the amazing opportunities we had at Ripponlea like Canberra camp, all the round robins, the school carnival and the big day out. We thank all our teachers and parents for making all these things possible and supporting us throughout our school journey.

We are thankful to everyone who supported us throughout this year and provided us with the opportunity to lead this school. We wish the students of RPS the best of luck for future years

-  Sophia and Hugh

Creating a Legacy: Fraser Vale’s Sensory Space Project

This year, our School Captains were inspired to leave behind lasting contributions to the school community. Driven by the desire to give back and make a meaningful impact, each captain embarked on their own unique legacy project. Among them, Fraser Vale demonstrated remarkable vision and dedication in his efforts to redevelop the sensory space near the teacher resource room.

Fraser’s initial dream was ambitious: to create a fully enclosed, noise-free sensory haven—a calming retreat for students needing a moment of quiet and regulation. However, the projected costs for such a build exceeded $20,000. Undeterred, Fraser pivoted his approach, conducting research and consulting with peers to find innovative and cost-effective ways to bring his vision to life.

The Purpose of Sensory Spaces

Through his research, Fraser learned that sensory spaces play a vital role in supporting children’s emotional and sensory regulation. These spaces provide a safe environment for students to process feelings of overwhelm, calm their minds, and refocus for learning. They are particularly beneficial for children with sensory processing needs, autism, or anxiety, but all students can benefit from having access to these resources.

What’s in the New Sensory Space?

After thoughtful consultation with his peers, Fraser curated a selection of sensory tools and furnishings designed to create a calming and inclusive environment. Some highlights include:

• Sensory Tools: Fraser selected a variety of tools designed to provide tactile and proprioceptive input, such as stress balls, fidget toys, and weighted items, which help children self-regulate and reduce anxiety.
• Comfortable Seating: Bean bags and soft cushions were chosen to create a welcoming and cozy space where students can relax and feel secure.
• The Muscle Mat: A standout feature, the Muscle Mat is designed to offer deep pressure stimulation, which helps calm the nervous system and improve focus. This mat is especially helpful for students who need grounding during moments of heightened stress.

Looking Ahead

While the new equipment has already arrived, the school has decided to postpone setting up the space until the start of the new school year. This ensures the area will remain pristine during the upcoming summer cleaning period. Fraser has graciously agreed to return in the new year to complete the unveiling of the sensory space, and we can’t wait to see his vision come to life.

Fraser’s project is a testament to the creativity, leadership, and compassion of our school captains. His thoughtful contribution will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy, benefiting students for years to come.

Pearl’s Legacy Project: Capturing Memories and Spreading Joy

As part of her legacy project, School Captain Pearl created a vibrant student-inspired brochure encapsulating the highlights of 2024. The brochure reflects the heart and spirit of the Ripponlea community and will be shared with all families in the final newsletter.

Highlights include:

• Student Artwork Showcase: A gallery of stunning art pieces created by Ripponlea students, showcasing their creativity and talent.
• Ripper Joke Corner: A collection of student-submitted jokes, celebrating Ripponlea’s sense of humor and fun.

Leadership Reports:

• Sustainability Leaders: Reflecting on their achievements in promoting eco-friendly practices, such as new recycling initiatives and the thriving community garden.
• Student Wellbeing Leaders: Sharing efforts to support peers through initiatives like mindfulness workshops and friendship-building activities.
• House Captains: Highlighting the success of house competitions, sports days, and fostering team spirit across the school.

Pearl’s mini brochure is a testament to the vibrant, inclusive, and creative culture at Ripponlea Primary School, ensuring 2024 will be remembered fondly by the entire community.

Hugh Fletcher’s Legacy Project: Bringing Colour and Connection to Ripponlea

Hugh Fletcher, one of our 2024 Vice School Captains, had a bold vision for his legacy project: to bring vibrant colour and student spirit to Ripponlea Primary School through a series of murals. While building projects around the school posed some logistical challenges, Hugh’s determination, creativity, and consultative approach ensured the success of his first mural, transforming a key area into a hub of connection and creativity.

Setting the Scene

From the outset, Hugh wanted the murals to truly represent the students and their unique perspectives. At a school assembly, he shared his vision and invited input from the entire student body, encouraging everyone to contribute ideas for the mural’s design. After gathering feedback, Hugh partnered with two talented artists and ultimately selected Ryan Peik, a local artist renowned for his ability to transform images into playful, cartoon-like murals.

A Collaborative Process

Hugh and Ryan carefully chose the mural’s location—a space near the Barbunnin deck and OSHC rooms that serve as a buddy bench and chat stop area. This site was selected not only for its high visibility but also for its role in fostering student connections and friendships.

Over three days, Ryan brought the mural to life, with students eagerly watching the process unfold from the deck. The mural reflects the creativity and ideas shared by the students, making it a true representation of the Ripponlea community.

A Lasting Impact

Hugh’s legacy project has transformed the buddy bench area into an inviting, colourful space where students can relax, connect, and enjoy the vibrant artwork. To enhance the area further, proceeds from the school’s cake raffle will be used to add additional seating in the coming year.

At a special assembly, Hugh officially unveiled the mural and reminded students of its significance, encouraging them to treasure and care for the space. Inspired by the success of this project, Hugh is already seeking student input for the next mural design, ensuring his legacy continues to grow.

A Legacy of Colour and Community

Hugh’s dedication to bringing colour and connection to Ripponlea Primary School has left a lasting impression. His mural not only brightens the school grounds but also serves as a symbol of collaboration, creativity, and community spirit—values that will inspire students for years to come.

Sophia Peacock-Miller’s Legacy Project: A Listening Ear and a Helping Hand

Sophia Peacock-Miller, one of our thoughtful and compassionate Vice School Captains, took a unique approach to her legacy project. While her work might not be as immediately visible as a mural or a brochure, its impact on the lives of Ripponlea students has been profound. Sophia’s initiative provided a safe and supportive space for students to share their worries, seek advice, and feel truly heard.

Inspired by Care and Connection

Drawing inspiration from advice columnists like Dear Abby, Sophia recognized the power of listening and offering guidance. She wanted to create an environment where students, whether younger or older, could confide in her and find support. Her project was rooted in her deep care for the Ripponlea community and her desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Creating a Safe Space

Sophia set up a special area in the foyer of the Barbunnin, where she welcomed students during part of lunch breaks. She made announcements to invite anyone who needed support to join her, ensuring that all students felt comfortable approaching her with their concerns.

With a clear understanding of her responsibilities, Sophia established thoughtful boundaries. She assured students that their conversations were private but explained that if any safety concerns were disclosed, she would report them to trusted teachers or adults. This approach created an atmosphere of trust and accountability, allowing students to feel safe and supported.

A Legacy of Impact

Throughout the term, many students sought Sophia’s advice, benefiting from her empathy and thoughtful problem-solving. Whether offering strategies to navigate friendships, cope with stress, or build confidence, Sophia’s guidance left a lasting impact on those who came to her for help.

Her legacy project not only highlights her caring and supportive nature but also raises the question: could this experience inspire Sophia to pursue a future as a psychologist or counsellor? Whatever her path, her dedication to the well-being of others is a testament to her character and leadership.

An Unseen but Powerful Contribution

Sophia’s project reminds us that not all legacies are visible—they can also live in the hearts of those we support. Her initiative has left an indelible mark on the Ripponlea community, showing the power of listening, empathy, and genuine care.

HOUSE MUSIC COMPETITION 2024: A SPECTACLE OF TALENT AND HOUSE PRIDE

Every year, the House Music Competition at our school is a much-anticipated event, showcasing not only the extraordinary talents of our students but also the leadership and creativity of our House Captains.

These remarkable leaders juggle their responsibilities in major sporting events such as House Swimming, Cross Country, and Athletics throughout the year. Yet, as the year draws to a close, they embrace an entirely different challenge: choreographing and leading their house in an unforgettable dance routine for the House Music Competition.

This year was no exception. Despite the busy schedules of end-of-year events, including graduation preparations, our House Captains rose to the occasion. They demonstrated exceptional organisational skills by scheduling rehearsals, motivating their peers, and fine-tuning every detail to ensure their house’s performance was spectacular. From creative choreography to impressive stage presence, the competition was a vibrant celebration of house spirit and talent.

The theme for this year’s competition brought an eclectic mix of music to life, featuring iconic performances inspired by Michael Jackson’s Thriller, John Travolta’s Stayin’ Alive, Queen’s Another One Bites the Dust, and the winning house’s choice—Jungle’s Back on 74. 

Each house infused their routines with unique elements, from sharp choreography to engaging storytelling, leaving the audience enthralled. The energy in the Barrbunin was electric as the houses battled it out for the coveted title of House Music Champions 2024.

Our panel of judges faced an incredibly tough decision. With only eight points separating the houses, every performance brought something special to the stage. Each judge had a favourite, but after much deliberation, a consensus was reached. Combining scores across all categories, the winning house emerged: Booring.

Congratulations to Booring’s House Captains—Harriet, Evi, and Max—who led their team with passion, creativity, and determination. Their hard work and leadership not only secured the title but also inspired their peers to perform with pride and enthusiasm.

This year’s House Music Competition was a fitting finale to an incredible year. It highlighted the collaborative spirit, dedication, and talent of our school community, leaving us all eagerly anticipating what next year’s competition will bring. 

Well done to all houses for their outstanding performances, thank you to our teachers for facilitating all rehearsals and Mr Leech for his MC talents and thank you to the students for reminding us of the power of teamwork and creativity!

2025 RPS STUDENT LEADERSHIP TEAM 

It is with great pleasure and anticipation that we introduce the upcoming student leaders at Riponlea Primary School. The 2025 student leadership elections have been a rigorous and transformative process.  As these aspiring young leaders step into the spotlight, they carry with them the weight of responsibilities, fueled by a passion to make a lasting impact on the RPS community.

The newly elected student leaders have had the privilege of observing and learning from their predecessors. Watching the previous leaders take on their roles with passion and commitment has undoubtedly influenced the aspirations of the incoming leaders. The legacy left behind by former student leaders serves as a source of inspiration, setting high standards for the current and future generations of leaders at RPS.

As we stand on the cusp of a new era with the introduction of the 2025 student leadership at RPS, it is only fitting to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to the outgoing student leaders. The impact you have made during your time has been immeasurable, and your dedication to serving the RPS community has left an indelible mark.

Throughout your time in leadership roles, you have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the betterment of our school. Your passion for fostering a positive and inclusive environment, coupled with your tireless efforts to enhance the overall experience of students at RPS, has not gone unnoticed.

Through various initiatives, events, and community service projects, you have exemplified the values that define RPS. Your ability to inspire and motivate your peers has created a ripple effect, leaving a lasting impact on the culture of our school.

As you pass the torch to the incoming leaders, we want you to know that your efforts have not gone unnoticed or unappreciated. The positive changes you have instigated, the relationships you have built, and the leadership skills you have cultivated will undoubtedly serve you well in your future endeavours.