Dear Armadale Community

We are proud of all children as they have settled into school life and routines exceptionally well.

Whole School Assembly

Our Whole School Assembly is held every second Tuesday from 2:30 – 3:00pm in the MPC. Different year levels host the assembly, giving students the opportunity to share their learning and helping to promote our school community. Parents and carers are warmly welcome to attend. For convenience and planning, the Term 1 assembly schedule is as follows:

Maths Enrichment

We are fortunate to be able to offer Maths Enrichment sessions for selected students during Term 1. Rachel Jackson is excited to be leading these sessions. While all students are provided with mathematical tasks at their level in the classroom, including extension opportunities, these enrichment sessions allow students to further develop their mathematical reasoning skills through engaging and challenging problem-solving tasks.

Rachel has also prepared a short clip introducing herself and providing a brief outline of what students can expect in these sessions.

Recycling Bins – Bottles and Cans

Following last week’s newsletter, we now have designated recycling bins for bottles and cans. One bin is located next to the canteen window at the MPC, and the other is next to the Prep building. Please deposit your cans in these bins. Once full, our parent volunteers will take them and convert them to cash, with all money raised going back into the school.

Cooking with Karen

Some of our Year 1 students recently enjoyed a fun and educational session in the kitchen with Karen. They demonstrated exceptional culinary skills and made zucchini fritters - though some referred to them as “flippers”!

Swimming Carnival – Years 3 – 6

Our Years 3 – 6 Swimming Carnival was a fantastic event organised by our P/E teacher, Katie. The day was filled with amazing swimming performances, personal bests, and plenty of cheering and encouragement. It was heartwarming to see children supporting each other, and the relays were definite highlights, showcasing persistence, perseverance, and giving things a go. Thank you, Katie, for a wonderful day!

APS Tennis Champs 2026

Last Tuesday, tradition was maintained with the APS tennis tournament, which saw staff and students on court enjoying rallies, volleys, and some spectacular shots. It was a great way to see who’s got skills and who might need a little more practice - but fun was had by all! Our 2026 tennis champions are Ruby and Sam - congratulations to them! Runners up were Luca and Ms Rozi. Staff have already been asking if we could have a challenge later in the year to see if they can unseat the champions.

Thank you to our fabulous PFA and Year 1Parents for putting on a Welcome Morning tea to our Prep parents on the Preps' very first day of school last Monday.

There were no tears in sight, and all of the parents enjoyed the opportunity to connect and socialise whilst the children engaged in their first day of "big" school. We are very grateful to the PFA and the Year 1 parents for their generosity and kindness and all the staff certainly relished the delicious baked treats at morning recess. A special shout out to Sarah for setting everything up and we hope that the positive connectiveness and sense of belonging continues and strengthens over the next 7 years.

WHAT'S COMING UP

Monday 23 February - Year 2 Swimming Program begins

Friday 20 February - District Swimming

Thursday 26 February - Year 5/6 Life Saving Victoria Aquatic Program

Monday 9 March - LABOUR DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY

Wednesday 11 March - NAPLAN begins

Thursday 19 March - School Photos

- Harmony Day (celebrating this in the afternoon)

Principal

rochelle.cukier@education.vic.gov.au

Assistant Principal

connie.apostolos@education.vic.gov.au

Meet the Prep Team