Principal's Page 

As we reach the end of Term 3, we reflect on a busy and exciting few months here at Great Ryrie. It’s been a term filled with wonderful experiences and memorable events. Here’s a look back at what’s been happening and a glimpse of what’s to come.

Swimming Program

This term, our students, staff and parents survived another swimming program! From learning essential water safety skills to improving swimming techniques, our students have made great progress. It’s been fantastic to see their confidence grow in the water, and we’re proud of all their hard work and enthusiasm, particularly those that had to walk back to school in the rain!

Wellbeing Week

We dedicated a week to focusing on the wellbeing of both students and staff. This special week included activities designed to promote mental health, as well as build connections within the classroom and amongst peers. Our students participated in the ‘Smile Project’ photo booth, mindfulness exercises, affirmation tasks and collected a record amount of donations for the ‘Food Pantry Drive’. 

Book Week

Book Week was a highlight of the term, celebrating the magic of reading. Students embraced the theme with enthusiasm, dressing up as their favourite book characters for our parade. 

Classrooms were buzzing with book-related activities, and our Year 5&6 students were lucky enough to experience a visit from well-known author, Morris Gleitzman. The students sat enraptured for over an hour listening to how Morris created and developed his story lines, as well as inspiring tips to write best sellers. We can’t forget the class door displays. Congrats to Prep B who won the door competition with a colourful depiction of ‘Do not open this door or else’.

Year 5 Wellbeing Workshops

Our Year 5 students participated in a series of wellbeing workshops aimed at equipping them with valuable life skills. These workshops included activities such as communication, problems solving, help seeking behaviour, building positive relationships, and developing a growth mindset. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and we are confident these skills will benefit them now and in the future.

Footy Day

Footy Day brought a burst of energy and was a great way to end Term 3. Students and staff donned their favourite team colours and participated in a footy parade and footy-themed sport rotations. Congratulations to all our best dressed winners and make sure to check out the photos!

Year 5 Speech Night

Congratulations to our Year 5 students for a truly memorable Speech Night! The evening was filled with impressive performances and heartfelt speeches that left us all beaming with pride. We were especially moved by the exceptional quality of the leadership speeches, showcasing not only the students’ passion for the role but their thoughtful approach to leadership and teamwork. With so many outstanding presentations, selecting students for these positions will undoubtedly be a challenge. We are incredibly proud of each student’s hard work. Well done to everyone involved!

Looking Ahead to Term 4

As we look forward to Term 4, we have some exciting events on the horizon:

• Year 3 & 4 Camp: Our Year 3 and 4 students are eagerly anticipating their upcoming camp in week 4. It’s a fantastic opportunity for them to connect with classmates, explore the great outdoors, and develop new skills in a fun and supportive environment.
• Art Show: The Art Show is just around the corner, and our students have been busy creating amazing artworks. We can’t wait to showcase their creativity and celebrate their artistic achievements with the whole school community on Thursday 7th November. There will be fun activities for families to get involved in once they have visited the art show, and it wouldn’t be a GRPS event without a BBQ.
• Final Term for Year 6: For our Year 6 students, the final term is a time of both excitement and reflection. We’ll be celebrating their achievements, preparing them for the transition to high school, and making sure their final term is filled with memorable experiences.

Thank you to all our students, parents, and staff for your continued support and involvement. We’re looking forward to finishing the year on a high note, as well as welcoming back a tanned and relaxed Mrs Rouda.

Please remmber that the first day back of Term 4 is a Curricululm Day and therefore a pupil free day. 

Wishing you all a wonderful holiday break.

Warm regards,

Melissa Roberts

Assistant Principal