From the Principal

The school year is rapidly drawing to a close, but we are not done yet! We are preparing for many activities, rehearsing for Community Carols, Celebration Assembly, classes, the whole school transition session, year six graduation, and end-of-year activities. Whilst this is a hectic time, our students must maintain routines and programs as much as possible to ensure a settled end to the year. I also encourage students to continue daily reading. Each day, 15- 30 minutes of reading affect long-term student outcomes and reading enjoyment.

Celebration Assembly

On Monday, December 4, at 9:15 am, we will hold our Celebration Assembly. This assembly is significant because it includes the presentation of special awards to year three and four students and the announcement of leadership roles for our 2024 year six students. We are delighted to have some special guests to present the awards, with an extra special guest, Mrs Daniel, joining us for the occasion!

 Whole School Transition 

On Tuesday, December 12, our whole school transition session will take place. Students will meet their 2024 class teachers and peers, promoting a smoother return to school. Teachers have carefully balanced classes for students for next year; academically, socially, and behaviorally. This complex task requires considerable time and work. Primary school is a crucial time for children to learn to make friends, as friendships may evolve with changing developmental stages and values. We encourage families to support their children in embracing new opportunities to make friends.

Parent Helper's Afternoon Tea

Our school thrives on the exceptional support from parents and the school community. We value the contributions of parents assisting in classrooms, organising events, assisting with camps and participating in activities like incursions and excursions. The School Council, Subcommittee members, and Parents' Association helpers are vital in shaping POPS' vision and culture.

Teachers and support staff sincerely appreciate your involvement in our students' school life. To show our gratitude, please join us for Afternoon Tea on Tuesday, December 12, at 3:45 pm in the Arts Centre, following the "meet the teacher" session. Save the date for this special occasion.

Staffing

Next year, a few teachers will be absent from POPS. Ms Brincat is taking a year off to travel the world and will return in 2025. Mr Paul is also on leave to explore his interests, while Mrs Read is leaving POPS to work at Mt Evelyn PS, closer to her home. Mrs McIlroy is leaving POPS to pursue a teaching opportunity. We extend our best wishes to them and express gratitude for their contributions this year.

We're excited to announce that Mrs De Carlo, Mrs Pearson, Mrs Smith, and Ms Dixon will return to POPS in 2024. We eagerly anticipate their continued contributions to our staff team.

Student Achievements

Alex T for swimming freestyle non-stop for 450m, and Josh T, who has already completed his 1500m non-stop freestyle, recently achieved his 1500m in breaststroke. They are both very proud of their achievements.

Don't forget to go to the From the Classroom page to find out what has been happening in the year 1/2 classes. Also go to the Science page to read about the Rocket Launch Competition.

Have a great weekend,

Ms Garrity (Principal)

Reminders

Sun Dec 3: Community Carols- Domeney 7pm

Mon Dec 4: Celebration Assembly 9:15am

Tues Dec 5: School Council/PA mtgs

Fri Dec 8: F-2 Sports morning (9- 10:40am)