Message from the Principal

Welcome to this week’s newsletter. As we move through mid-term, there are several important events and programs underway that support our students’ learning, wellbeing, and community engagement. 

Swimming and Water Safety

The School Swimming and Water Safety Program begins this week for many of our Year 2 students and runs for a fortnight. Since 1954, this important program has been dedicated to helping students develop essential water safety awareness and learn how to swim. Every year, approximately 1,300 schools across NSW participate, engaging over 110,000 students. The NSW Department of Education fully funds swimming instruction for all students, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent access to this vital skill. However, families are responsible for covering transport to and from pools, as well as any pool entry fees. The program is designed to be inclusive and supportive of students from diverse cultural backgrounds and varying socio-economic circumstances. It plays a crucial role in improving children’s confidence and safety in the water.

Remembrance Day Assembly

Today we held our Remembrance Day assembly. Remembrance Day is one of the most important days on our calendar. It's a day when we acknowledge those who died or suffered while serving in wars, conflicts and peace operations. Remembrance Day is held on 11 November each year. It marks the armistice (ceasefire) that ended fighting in World War I on November 11, 1918, at 11 am - the “eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.”

The day is marked by ceremonies and moments of silence to reflect on the sacrifice and bravery of military personnel. Our School Captains attended the City of Ryde Remembrance Day Service at Meadowbank Park. Cullen participated in the reading of a poem, ‘In Every Night’s Glow’. Lily laid a wreath on behalf of the school as part of the proceedings.

Remembrance Day helps promote the values of peace, respect, and the importance of remembering history to build a better future.

Community Hub – Preparing for 2026 

The Community Hub invites parents to an upcoming information session focused on preparing for the 2026 school year. This session will explain how classes are formed and provide helpful advice on supporting your child as they transition to a new class environment. It’s a great opportunity to connect with other parents and learn strategies to make the change smooth and positive for your child. Community Hub is on Friday 21 November at 9.00 am in the hall. Join us for tea/coffee and a chat.

School Leaders – Election process underway

The election process for our school captains, prefects, and house captains begins this week. This is an exciting time where students have the opportunity to demonstrate leadership qualities and contribute to our school community. Year 5 candidates will be interviewed, they then campaign and present their ideas, with voting to be conducted soon. We encourage all students to participate in this process, whether running for a position or supporting their peers.

Why attendance matters

When your child misses school they miss important opportunities to learn, make friends and build skills through fun. Days missed can equal years lost.