Banksia 

As we reach the end of a very positive and productive Term One, I would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding work of our Banksia Learning Place staff team.

This term has centred on establishing strong foundations for learning. Staff have worked diligently to develop consistent routines and foster positive, supportive relationships across our new class groupings. This intentional focus has enabled students to feel safe, connected, and ready to engage in their learning each day. Alongside this, staff have invested significant time and care into Student Support Group (SSG) meetings, Individual Education Plans (IEPs), and collaborative planning processes to ensure all students are supported with clear, personalised learning goals. The development and implementation of our Reading to Learn (R2L) plans has also been a key priority, strengthening our approach to literacy instruction across the learning place.

We have also enjoyed a range of engaging learning experiences and celebrations throughout the term. It was a delight to welcome our Banksia Place families to join us for Harmony Day, providing a meaningful opportunity to celebrate inclusion, diversity, and community together. Students also participated in activities recognising St Patrick’s Day and Holi, further exploring culture and celebration in engaging ways. In the classroom, students have been building their number and space skills in Mathematics, alongside continued development in reading, writing, and spelling. It has been wonderful to see students growing in confidence and capability across these core areas.

A highlight has been the establishment of our 2026 student clubs, developed in partnership with students to reflect their interests. These include Minecraft Club, Sports Club, and Girls Group, all of which have provided valuable opportunities for social connection, teamwork, and student voice.

We are also pleased to welcome Amanda, our school’s Mental Health Practitioner, who has commenced working across Banksia Learning Place this term. Amanda is supporting students and staff to further strengthen wellbeing practices and ensure all learners are supported to thrive.

Looking ahead to Term Two, we are excited to continue building on this strong start. Families will receive an overview of teaching and learning for the term on the first day back. We are also looking forward to our Gymnastics Excursion, which will provide a fantastic opportunity for students to develop physical skills and confidence in a new environment.

Term Two will include a number of important events and celebrations, including ANZAC Day, Mother’s Day, Education Support (ES) Appreciation Day, and National Simultaneous Storytime. We warmly invite families to join us for our Mother’s Day Breakfast on 11th May, which will be a wonderful opportunity to come together as a community.

We also look forward to connecting with families during our Term Two SSG meetings in Week Three, where we will share student progress and set goals for the coming term.

Thank you to our families for your continued support. We are proud of the strong start to the year and look forward to another successful term of learning ahead.

Aidan O’Connor and the Banksia Learning Place Team