From the Principal

Welcome back to Term 4! I can hardly believe how fast this year has flown by. As we enter the final term, we have so much to look forward to. Term 4 is always filled with exciting opportunities, and plenty of hard work as we approach the finish line. 

Our teachers have planned engaging lessons, activities, and events to make this term both productive and enjoyable. A highlight is the upcoming production, with Miss Sarah and the students working hard in rehearsals. We also have exciting end-of-year celebrations to look forward to as we wrap up the school year.

SCHOOL REVIEW

In preparation for our School Review in Term 1, 2025, staff are analysing data from the past four years and comparing it with our 2021–2024 School Strategic Plan to assess progress and celebrate achievements.

To guide our future direction, we’ll gather insights through parent and staff surveys and student focus groups, helping us identify key areas for our next strategic plan. We ask parents/carers to complete a 5 minute Google form to assist in revising our school's mission, vision, and values. Your input is vital for shaping our future focus.

THEIRCARE

I would like to extend a warm welcome to TheirCare, who have started providing Out of Hours Care for families at our school this week. During the holidays, TheirCare set up the Pettet Centre, and the space is looking fantastic. 

We are looking forward to TheirCare providing some new and exciting activities for our students using the service. Go to the TheirCare page for information about enrolling in their programs.

FOUNDATION 2025

Tomorrow, we begin our first Pathways to POPS session for our 2025 Foundation students. This extended transition program, unique to our school, helps preschool children become familiar with our environment and feel safe as they prepare for school.

Next Thursday, October 17, we will hold our first Foundation Information Session online at 7 p.m. Details on how to access the session will be emailed to Foundation 2025 families.

2025 PLANNING

We are planning for 2025. If your child will be leaving at the end of the year, please let us know in writing as soon as possible. If you know families considering POPS, encourage them to contact us for a tour or to speak with me. Early knowledge of student numbers helps us plan more effectively for next year.

WORKING BEE

Next Friday, October 18, we will hold a Working Bee to begin redeveloping the area between the Rainbow playground and the gym. Our first task is to remove ivy from the trees and fence, followed by assessing the health of the trees. At our next Working Bee, we’ll create garden beds and plant indigenous species.

Other tasks include general garden maintenance like pruning and weeding, as well as cleaning up the chicken coop and veggie patch. TheirCare is kindly sponsoring the event and will provide sausages for our hardworking volunteers.

We look forward to seeing community members, even if just for 20 minutes! Many hands make light work.

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

Zach Q (1M): Zach and his dad completed the 2024 Lunchbox Rally travelling 1,623 km in their $400 SAAB Convertible. Zach earned a special award for being in the top 10 donation teams, raising $6,574.

April B (1K): April competed at a dance competition in Ballarat over the school holidays. She performed a ballet solo and a tap solo, and won a gold medal for her tap!

Summer C (5/6M): Summer qualified for the finals in 11th place out of 41 and finished 6th overall at the National Clubs Championships. She is proud of achieving a personal best with her highest score ever in her finals routine.

Ryanna J (4C): Congratulations to Ryanna who received a Distinction for her ballet exam.

Chess Team: Congratulations to the POPS chess team for their fantastic performance in last term's tournament at Kangaroo Ground Primary School. The team placed 3rd overall! Special congratulations to Ben R. for winning Silver (F-2), Manya T for Bronze (Girls Open), and Tristan A for Bronze (5-6).

Have a great weekend,

Ms Garrity

PRINCIPAL

KEY DATES Week 2:

Mon Oct 14: Assembly- 9am/ Storytime- 9am 

Thurs Oct 17: Foundation Information Session Online- 7pm

Fri Oct 18: Pathways Session 2/ Working Bee 3:45- 5pm

CALL OUT: We are seeking assistance with reupholstering or covering some furniture in need of TLC! Please contact Bronwyn Garrity for more information.

REMINDERS

Save the Date: The Whole School Production will take place on Thursday, November 14, at the George Wood Performing Arts Centre, Yarra Valley Grammar School. 

School Saver Bonus. To receive the School Saver Bonus go to the From the Office page to read about the key actions for parents and carers. The most important thing is that parent email details are incorrect.