Leadership Report

It’s been a week since the Art Show, but I’m still absolutely amazed by the event. What an incredible display of creativity, imagination, and execution! A huge thank you to Margaret for leading the school in such a wonderful celebration of the arts. Thank you also to our dedicated staff for supporting Margaret’s vision, and to our talented students for sharing their creativity and passion. Margaret certainly deserves a well-earned break, though we’re already counting down the days until the next show in two years!

Peter Combe Performance

On Wednesday, the legendary Peter Combe filled our school gymnasium with energy and nostalgia, performing a catalogue of hits that would make even Bardot jealous! It was a treat to hear Mr Clickety Cane live, and just as entertaining to watch our Spanish teachers experience the joy that Peter Combe brought to 1980s Australia. A huge thank you to Claire and the PFA for bringing such a memorable experience to Newlands. (Rumour has it that New Found Glory could be next—stay tuned!)

Yarning Conference

On Tuesday, Simon, Gabby, and a group of students represented Newlands Primary School at the Annual Yarning Conference. Our students demonstrated great pride and engagement, returning inspired and eager to share their learnings and ideas for what’s next. One of the most powerful moments of the day was taking part in the Walk for Truth, led by the Yoorrook Justice Commission, which encouraged reflection, understanding, and a deeper connection to Aboriginal history and culture. These themes included learning about the First Peoples’ Assembly and its work towards Treaty in Victoria, as well as the Yoorrook Justice Commission’s role in leading the first formal truth-telling process of injustices experienced by Aboriginal people. A big thank you to Simon, who has generously given up many of his lunchtimes to help students build their knowledge and understanding in this important area.

Please see below an incredibly powerful letter from Travis Lovett to all the Grade 5s that participated.

2026 Foundation Transition - Session #3

Our 2026 Foundation students are growing in confidence as they complete their third of five transition sessions. Some families may have noticed a few extra faces joining in while we can’t reveal too much just yet, we can say that everyone is very excited about supporting our newest learners next year!

Grandparents’ Day

There was an enthusiastic crowd of grandparents filling our classrooms today! Teachers reported some cheeky behaviour, calling out, not listening, and even a bit of gum-chewing, but it was all in good fun. The students were thrilled to have their grandparents join them for the day, and the joy and laughter in the rooms said it all. It was a wonderful event, and we’ll definitely look to do it again soon!

Salsa Night

Tonight, it’s Round Two of dancing at Newlands! Expect even more fun, food, and drinks—and hopefully fewer birds this time! Check the Clube De Espanol page for all the final details. If it’s anything like the last event, it’s bound to be a fantastic night. Come along and join the fun!

Have a fantastic weekend!

Thanks, 

Luke

PS - Read Craig's School Council Report, a fantastic read!