Krystina's Chatter

Hi everyone,

As we settle into winter, the cold, wet mornings have well and truly arrived! With this change in weather, we’ve noticed an increase in cars around the school at drop-off and pick-up times. A friendly reminder to please follow all parking rules, use the crossings, and be extra mindful of pedestrians—especially our students. Planning a few extra minutes into your routine can make a big difference in keeping everyone safe.

Please also make sure students are dressed for the wintery weather. We know the importance of outdoor play and will always aim to provide that time outdoors, even in light showers. If wet weather is forecasted, ensure your child comes to school with warm clothing and a waterproof coat, so they can stay comfortable and dry during breaks.

State-wide Principal's Conference 

Last week, I had the privilege of representing our school at the State-wide Principal’s Conference. I was invited to share our school’s story on a panel focused on transforming practice, and it was a real honour to speak about the journey we’ve taken as a learning community. It was a proud moment to highlight the dedication of our staff, students, and families in making meaningful change.

Short Black Opera

We were also incredibly proud to have several of our First Nations students participate in the 2025 Short Black Opera. This unique program brought together students from schools across the region for a week-long opportunity to learn culture, music, and storytelling in workshops meticulously crafted by Yorta Yorta soprano, composer, and educator Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO. After a week of rehearsal, the students performed for an audience of family, friends, and school community members. It was a beautiful and moving performance—well done to all involved!

Finally, a bit of fun to end the week—this Friday is Silly Socks and Crazy Hair Day! We’re raising money for The Kids’ Cancer Project, a wonderful cause supporting research and treatment for childhood cancer. We can’t wait to see all the crazy hairstyles and wild socks walking through the gates!

Update on Student Reporting – Mathematics Version 2.0

The way we report on Mathematics will be changing on your child’s Semester 1 report, which you will receive in the coming weeks.

The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) has released a revised Mathematics curriculum, known as Mathematics Version 2.0. As part of this state-wide update, our school began implementing the new curriculum at the beginning of the year.

Previously, Mathematics reports were organised under three strands: Number and Algebra, Measurement and Geometry, and Statistics and Probability. Under Mathematics Version 2.0, student achievement will now be reported as a single, overall score based on the full achievement standard.

As this is the first time reports are being aligned with the new curriculum, the Semester 1 report will show your child’s achievement only. From Semester 2 onwards, reports will include both achievement and progress against the new standard.

These changes are designed to give teachers more flexibility in planning learning programs and to help students make stronger connections within Mathematics and across other learning areas.

Why Consistent Routines Matter at School

At Hamlyn Banks, we know that children thrive in environments where they feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. One powerful way we create this environment is through consistent routines across our school day and classrooms.

Consistent routines reduce cognitive load—the mental effort needed to process information—by allowing students to focus their brainpower on learning rather than working out what’s expected of them. When students know what to expect, they don’t have to waste energy guessing what comes next or worrying about what they should be doing.

Routines also build a strong sense of predictability and security, which helps all students, especially those who may feel anxious or need additional support to succeed. Predictable structures support smoother transitions, increased engagement, and stronger learning outcomes.

At Hamlyn Banks, we currently have eight Consistent and Predictable Routines (CPRs). These routines are used across all classrooms and may also be helpful for you to use at home. In this week’s edition of the newsletter, I’ve included the first four CPRs for you to explore. I’ll share the second group of four in the next newsletter edition.

Have a great week!

Krystina Simpson