Hi Solway Community,

Over the past fortnight, there has been plenty happening across Solway Primary School. It has been wonderful to see our students so actively engaged in school life and to again see our community coming together to support and celebrate learning in its many forms.

Japan Day

Congratulations and thank you to everyone involved in our recent Japan Day. The day was a wonderful celebration of our school’s connection to Japanese language and culture, and it was fantastic to see students so engaged throughout the various activities and experiences. Students embraced the sport and ninja incursions with great enthusiasm and demonstrated impressive creativity and patience through the tie dye and rice making activities. Opportunities like these help bring learning to life and deepen students’ understanding of cultures beyond their own. Thank you to Ryoko Sensei, Miss Brooks and Mrs Tremonte for their organisation and coordination of the day and thank you also to the parent helpers who supported the program across the day.

Mother’s Day Breakfast

It was wonderful to see so many members of our community attend the Mother’s Day Breakfast and Open Morning. The morning provided a valuable opportunity to celebrate the important role that mothers, grandmothers, aunties, step mums and other significant female figures play in the lives of our students. A special thank you to the Solway Dads group, led by Mat Kerr, for their organisation of the morning and for cooking the BBQ breakfast. Events such as this are an important reminder of the strong sense of connection that exists within our school community.

Science Fair

Our recent Science Fair was another highlight of the fortnight. It was wonderful to see so many students taking an interest in science and dedicating their own time to researching, creating and sharing their knowledge with others. Thank you to Mrs Birt for her organisation of the event and to the many parents who attended and supported the students. The pride students showed in presenting their projects and explaining their thinking was pleasing to see.

World Education Support Staff Day

On Wednesday 13 May we recognised World Education Support Staff Day and acknowledged the important contribution our Education Support staff make to the life of our school. Our Education Support staff work closely with students and teachers every day, supporting learning programs, individual student needs and the smooth running of the school. Their care, patience and professionalism help create the calm, inclusive and supportive environment we value so highly at Solway. Much of their work happens quietly behind the scenes, however the impact they have across our school community is significant and greatly appreciated. On behalf of our students, staff and families, thank you for all that you do for Solway Primary School.

Attendance

At Solway Primary School, we know that every day of learning matters. While we absolutely understand that children will need to stay home when they are unwell, it is important that, whenever possible, students attend school every day. Regular attendance builds strong routines, supports academic progress, strengthens friendships, and helps students feel connected to their school community. It was a pleasure to announce the year levels with the highest attendance rate over the last fortnight. The Grade 4s in week 3 (98%) and the Preps in week 4 (95%). Their music choices have been interesting and not what I was expecting, it has been great to hear some great songs across the yard each morning. I am looking forward to seeing the improvement we can make in our whole school attendance across the rest of the term.

To help us ensure our attendance data is accurate, can I please ask that if your child arrives at school after the 9am bell, they must come in via the office to sign in before heading off to class.

Parent Helpers

It has been great to see so many parents volunteering as classroom helpers across the school. Having families involved in learning programs is another valuable connection between home and school and supports the strong community culture we value at Solway. A gentle reminder to all parent helpers that, in line with our Child Safe Standards and emergency management processes, all adults attending classrooms must first sign in at the office before going to classrooms. I would also like to invite all parents to our first Parent Morning Tea for Term 2 on Wednesday 27 May. More information about the morning has been shared via Compass.

Lost Property

As the weather begins to cool and students start bringing extra layers to school, our lost property collection is quickly filling with jumpers, jackets and hats, along with a growing number of lunch boxes and drink bottles. We ask families to please ensure all items are clearly labelled with your child’s name. Named items are much easier to return quickly to students. At the end of each fortnight, unlabelled belongings will be collected up and donated or disposed of.

2027 Enrolments

Finally, a reminder that enrolments for students starting school in 2027 are now open. If you have a child who will be ready to begin school or know friends or family who are exploring school options, information on how to enrol is available on our school website.

Thank you for your continued support and lets all strive to be “our best always”.

David Rosser