Principal's message
Term 4 always has a different feel than every other term. Spring is in the air, the sun is shining, and celebrations are in motion. Over the last fortnight the students have been working hard demonstrating their learning for second semester, and the teachers have been analysing work samples in preparation for Semester 2 Reports.
Congratulations Mrs Heslop!
On Wednesday 20th November I attended the Georges River and Beverly Hills Principal Network Awards at GRC Oatley. The afternoon was a celebration of staff and volunteers across the two principal networks, and in attendance was the Executive Director for Metropolitan South Jan Green, and Director Education Leadership Joanna French.
I attended in representation of Mrs Suzanne Heslop, who was being acknowledged for her work and dedication to the students of Peakhurst Public School. Her citation read:
Sue is a dedicated paraprofessional who goes above and beyond to connect with students. She takes the time to read books and research topics that capture their interests, using this knowledge to build strong relationships and create meaningful connections. Her thoughtful approach extends to her lesson planning, where she develops engaging and dynamic activities that captivate and inspire her students. Sue’s passion for her role is matched by her warm, caring nature, making her a beautiful soul who nurtures both the minds and hearts of the young learners in her Small Group Tuition program.
Good Luck Mrs Tsekas
It is with mixed emotions I share with you some very exciting news for our school counsellor Mrs Chris Tsekas. Chris has been successful at securing a Relieving Senior Psychologist, Education (SPE) position commencing Term 4, Week 8 and continuing through to December 2025.
Mrs Tesekas has been a dedicated member of the Peakhurst PS community, providing invaluable support and guidance to our students, families and staff for many years. With her extensive experience in nurturing student wellbeing and fostering a positive school environment, Mrs Tsekas is well-equipped to take on this new role. She has consistently demonstrated a compassionate leadership style, offered resources to those who required them and she provide an ear to listen to those who needed it.
The staff, students and community at PPS will miss working closely with Mrs Tsekas over the next 13 months. Those who she will be working with in the future are lucky to have her.
Executive Director, Metropolitan South School Visit
On Tuesday 26th November Jan Green, our Executive Director for Metropolitan South will be visiting the executive staff. She will be discussing our School Improvement Plan, specifically engaging in conversation regarding student success, school challenges and where we are headed in 2025.
Unfortunately her visit clashes with our Thank You Morning Tea for our most valued volunteers. Therefore I would like to take his opportunity to share my most sincere gratitude to all the volunteers who have supported Peakhurst PS during 2024. Without our community support the school is only an institution - with your support and the commitment of the staff we make it a community. Thank you.
Reminder - Change of Student Return Dates for 2025
Last week teachers across NSW attended a broadcast to vote on the new teachers award for the next three years. The majority of the votes supported the award, and it was accepted.
As a result of this new teachers award, there has been an additional three School Development Days included into the 2025 calendar, providing teachers time to plan and prepare for the teaching and learning of the students in their class. The impact on families is to be aware of the updated date for the return of students in 2025.
All students, including new Kindergarten students, will commence on Thursday 6th February 2025.
This is a friendly reminder, if your child or children will be absent from school on Thursday 6th February 2025 due to a family holiday, please contact the office this year to have this leave recorded.
Mrs Bentley
Principal