Welcome back to Term 2! I hope all families enjoyed a restful and refreshing break and had the opportunity to spend some quality time together. It has been wonderful to see students returning to school with enthusiasm and energy, ready for another exciting term of learning. Across the school, the majority of year levels are beginning their ‘How the World Works’ PYP unit, which will see students exploring scientific ideas, asking thoughtful questions, and engaging in hands-on investigations. We are looking forward to a term filled with curiosity, discovery, and rich learning experiences.

Congratulations, Tania

As you no doubt would have heard, Tania was the successful applicant for a Principal position at another school. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Tania on her appointment and thank her for the positive and lasting impact she has had on our school community. Tania’s leadership and dedication have helped shape the culture and direction of our school, and her commitment to students, staff, and families has been deeply valued.

Tania arrived at FNPS in 2021, in the midst of the pandemic, as Assistant Principal, and immediately made a strong impact through her extensive knowledge and expertise, particularly in junior school literacy innovation. She was then appointed Principal for the 2022 school year, our first full year back on site, at a time when the school’s major building project was also well underway. Throughout this complex and challenging period, Tania’s unwavering focus on students and their learning was continually admirable. She remained deeply grounded in her values and those of the school, consistently ensuring that children were at the centre of every decision.

With a continued focus on student learning, Tania led the exploration of the IB PYP programme and its potential fit for our school. Undertaking such a significant whole-school initiative required careful planning, deep reflection, and considerable strategic thought. Her unwavering commitment to improving learning opportunities for students has resulted in exceptional experiences across the school community. This includes initiatives such as the Year 5/6 Fergie Street landscape project, as well as the ongoing contributions made to OzHarvest by many year levels over the years, each reflecting her belief in authentic, purposeful learning connected to the wider community.

With the main building project completed and strong support from community fundraising, Tania then turned her attention to further improving the school environment. This has included the development of the incredible new adventure playground and garden space, and the STEM room. These projects reflect her ongoing commitment to creating engaging, purposeful and future-focused learning environments for students.

Fitzroy North Primary School is a dramatically different place from when Tania began as Principal, both physically and academically. The projects mentioned above represent only a small selection of the many improvements Tania has led across our school during her time here, always guided by a clear and consistent focus, what is best for children.

On a personal note, I have been fortunate to work alongside Tania as part of the leadership team for a number of years. What she has taught me, and the growth I have experienced as a direct result of her mentorship, is something I will be forever grateful for.

Tania will be greatly missed by our community. She will be remembered as a leader who worked for every student, every opportunity, every day.

Cross Country

Students in Years 3–6 will be attending Brunswick Street Oval for our School Cross Country event on Thursday morning, 30th April. We encourage families to come along and support the students as they take part and do their best in what is always a fun and energetic event.

Curriculum Day

A reminder to families that this Friday is a Curriculum Day and will be a student-free day. No classes will be running on this day. OSHC provider TheirCare will be available for families who require care, and bookings can be made directly through their usual booking system.

Industrial Action

We would like to inform families that the industrial action being undertaken by the Australian Education Union is ongoing. At this stage, we are carefully monitoring the situation and working to minimise any disruption to students’ learning and school operations. Families will be kept informed of any specific impacts or changes that may affect them as further information becomes available. We appreciate your understanding and support during this time.

Have a great week.

Joe

FNPS Term 2 Community Calendar*

* subject to change throughout the Term