Deputy Principal's Report

Camps, Camps and more Camps

Did someone say camp? Absolutely! We're diving into Term 4 with a thrilling lineup of outdoor adventures. Kicking off the excitement, our Year 3 campers will head off on an unforgettable overnight stay at the Zoo during the first week back. Next up, in Week 2, our Year 5 campers are set to catch some waves and experience the thrill of a surfing outdoor adventure. And to wrap up the camps for the year, in Week 3, our Year 4 campers will embark on an enriching bike education journey. Get ready for a fantastic term filled with fun and learning!

The most valuable advice we can offer parents who are sending their kids to camp is that preparation is absolutely crucial. Our dedicated teachers invest significant time and effort in creating comprehensive lists and providing essential information for both parents and children as they prepare for the camp experience. They review daily schedules and outline the exciting activities the kids will be engaging in. This thoughtful preparation goes a long way in easing any pre-camp jitters, which are perfectly normal and common among parents as well.

However, it's important to remember that these moments and adventures at camp are the ones that create lasting memories for a lifetime. While it's natural for both parents and children to feel a touch of nervousness, it's far more likely that your child will regret not going to camp than attending. We encourage you to reach out to us if you or your child have any concerns before camp begins. We are here to address any worries together and ensure a positive and enriching camp experience for all.

Student Transitions

At this time of year we are busily preparing for our student transitions. This includes our new students coming in to our school next year and our Year 6 students moving on to high school. This can be a ticky time for children and families preparing for this big change and this can present in many different ways. Talking about it is the number one strategy in dealing with this. There are numerous online communities available for support and, of course, we are happy to help in any way possible.

Our school has initiated contact with high schools, and you'll soon receive a request via Operoo for the transfer of information between schools. If you have any specific requests regarding this, please don't hesitate to let us know.

Our junior teachers will also be visiting some of the local kinders to support student transition for our new preps. If you have a younger child entering Prep with us next year, they may come home excitedly talking about it.

For transition support to high school check out the headspace website for some tips for families here.

Gearing up for a break

As we gear up for a well-deserved break, it's safe to say that the past term has been quite busy. Now is the time to unwind and recharge, preparing ourselves for a strong finish to the year. School holidays can be a mixed experience for everyone. Whether you're planning to travel, reconnect with friends, enjoy a local staycation, or simply embrace a more relaxed pace and catch up on sleep, remember to allocate time for activities that bring you joy. This is essential for recharging and regaining your sense of self.

If you're uncertain about how to spend your time, consider trying something new. Explore a new hobby, acquire a fresh skill like cooking, initiate a social club centered around your interests, or delve into a new sport or game. With the warming weather and longer daylight hours, make an effort to get outside and soak up some Vitamin D. Did you know that Vitamin D influences our mood and energy levels? That means that getting some sunshine can actually make you happier.

While school holidays can foster stronger family bonds through increased time spent together, they can also put relationships to the test. Be mindful of being kind to yourself, take breaks, focus on the positive aspects, and avoid taking things too seriously. Perhaps you could set a family challenge—challenge yourselves to perform a kind gesture for a family member each day of the holidays.

Thanks again for all your support,

Peggy McDonald & Steele Anderson

Deputy Principals