Dear Parents/Carers,

HARMONY DAY INTERNATIONAL PARADE AT MONDAY ASSEMBLY

On Monday, our school community gathered for a vibrant and heartwarming Harmony Day International Parade during the assembly. This annual event is a beautiful reminder of the strength and unity that comes from celebrating our diverse backgrounds. Our students from all over the world proudly represented their countries of origin, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry that makes our community so unique.

The parade was a true celebration of pride in our diversity, with students waving their national flags, and sharing their cultural pride with peers. It was a moment of unity, where differences were not only acknowledged but celebrated as a source of strength. The display of national flags—soon to be again proudly displayed in the newly refurbished gym—served as a visual reminder of the global connections we share, adding a special touch to the event.

Our English as Additional Language (EAL) program, led by the talented Wei-Lin Mai and Nikki Marris, has been pivotal in supporting students from non-English speaking backgrounds. Their dedication ensures that every student feels included and empowered to thrive in our school community. Their leadership in the EAL program was evident in the parade, where many of our international students demonstrated their growth and confidence in both language and culture.

As the flags waved and the students proudly presented to the assembly, it was clear that Harmony Day is more than just a celebration—it's a reflection of the values we hold dear: respect, inclusion, and pride in our diverse community. The event was a perfect reminder of how our differences make us stronger and how, together, we form a very strong and rich community.

YEAR 2 CAMP TO PORT FAIRY

The Year 2 students had an unforgettable experience on their camp to Port Fairy, where sunny skies set the perfect backdrop for two days full of adventure and learning. The camp was an incredible opportunity for students to experience nature, develop independence, and bond with their peers outside the classroom.

Highlights of the camp included fishing by the river, where students had the chance to try their hand at catching some fish, and beachcombing, exploring the shoreline for unique treasures. The camp provided a wonderful environment for students to step out of their comfort zones, fostering a sense of independence and responsibility.

We are incredibly proud of the fantastic participation shown by all students, who eagerly engaged in every activity with enthusiasm and curiosity. Their positive attitudes and team spirit were evident, and they made the most of every moment.

A huge thank you to the staff who made the camp possible: Mr. Beane, Mrs. Marris, Mrs. Toone, Mrs. Ferguson and Mrs. Van Der Starre. Their hard work, support, and dedication ensured the camp ran smoothly and safely, and their care and guidance created a memorable experience for all.

Finally, a heartfelt thank you to the parents who supported the camp and our school’s camping program. Your involvement and encouragement play a vital role in making these experiences possible, and we are grateful for your ongoing support in helping our students grow and learn in such a special way.

EAL CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

During the Cultural Diversity Celebration this month, the EAL program celebrates the differences by making fans that resonate with the EAL students’ cultures and preferences.

They are all young artists and proud of their artwork.

YEAR 6 BUDDIES

Our Foundation and Year 6 students have commenced their Buddy Program. This week was all about getting to know each other. They played games, drew pictures and enjoyed some time in the school yard.

We look forward to seeing how this program continues to thrive throughout the year, with Year 6 students becoming excellent role models and creating lasting friendships!

CHILD SAFE STANDARD 2: A CHILD SAFE POLICY OR STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT TO CHILD SAFETY

Child Safe Standard 2 focuses on the creation and implementation of a comprehensive Child Safe Policy or Statement of Commitment to Child Safety within organisations. This standard is part of a broader framework aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of children in all environments, particularly in educational and care settings.

At our school, we have adopted a clear and well-defined Child Safe Policy, which outlines our commitment to protecting children from harm and ensuring their safety at all times. This policy is more than just a set of guidelines—it's a reflection of our school’s core values of respect, care, and responsibility toward every child in our care. It serves as a public declaration that the safety and well-being of children are always our top priority.

The policy includes specific actions and protocols for preventing, identifying, and responding to child safety concerns. It also establishes a clear commitment to creating an inclusive environment where children are empowered to speak up and where their voices are heard. Our commitment to child safety is regularly communicated to staff, students, and the wider school community, ensuring that everyone understands their role in maintaining a safe environment for all.

In line with Child Safe Standard 2, we also engage in ongoing training and education for staff to ensure they are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to recognise and respond to signs of abuse or neglect. This helps to build a culture of vigilance, trust, and accountability within our school community.

By adhering to Child Safe Standard 2, we continue to demonstrate our commitment to fostering a safe, supportive, and respectful environment for all children, where they can learn and grow with confidence.

NATASHA STARICK'S FIRST PAINTING: A MESSAGE TO TRY NEW THINGS

I’d like to share the incredible beginning of Natasha Starick’s art journey, one of our talented students, who recently completed her first painting. This personal achievement is not just a beautiful piece of art but a powerful message to our students: always try new things and embrace the creative process.

RIDE2SCHOOL DAY

Join us for Ride2School Day 2025 on Friday 4th April! Let’s make our commute to school fun, healthy, and eco-friendly.

So dust off the bikes and scooters and make it a day to remember! Don’t forget to wear your helmet!

Have a great weekend.

Peter Lee

Principal

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