Principal's Message

Wawa, Wominjika.

Here at Old Orchard Primary School, we acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land we visit each day, the Wurrunguri and Woiwurrung people of the Kulin nation.We acknowledge and respect the elders and leaders past and present and the elders and leaders of all of the cultures and nationalities that are part of the Old Orchard Primary School community.We express our gratitude towards the orchards that were kept in place by the peoples on this land before us.We thank the traditional owners for sharing this beautiful land that we all love, and for keeping the land, sky, waterways and animals all in great condition for thousands of years, not only for themselves but for all the generations to come.

Parent - Teacher Chats

The feedback from the parent-teacher chats throughout this week has been extremely positive. Teachers welcome this opportunity to share their insights with parents & carers and in some instances, to meet the families for the first time. Thank-you to all the families who have taken the time to attend the chats - I trust that you have found them beneficial and informative.

Wedding news - Kate Gorfine

Our very best wishes to Year 1 teacher, Kate Gorfine and her fiance Nick ahead of their wedding in the upcoming school holidays. We know that the day will be a special one of celebration and we wish them every happiness for the future. 

Staffing Update

Members of our school community will be delighted to hear that Ellen Hurley will be returning to work at the commencement of Term 2. Initially this will be in a part time capacity increasing gradually throughout the term. It will be wonderful to welcome Ellen back - we have missed her. 

Lunchtime Clubs

We have some fantastic lunchtime clubs up and running and student attendance indicates that these will be very popular. Clubs include:

We hope to add further clubs throughout the year.

Cuppa with Duncan

Our inaugural Cuppa with Duncan last Friday was a great success. There was an excellent turnout and we covered many topics including: 

• Our new STEM program
• Literacy at Old Orchard
• Homework
• Timetable adjustments (particularly the lunch eating changes)
• Playgrounds
• Library staff appointments

We will certainly continue with these forums throughout the year - please make an effort to come along if you are able to. 

PFA

Sheree has sent home a reminder about tomorrow’s PFA meeting - please make an effort to attend if possible.

Harmony Day

Today we are celebrating Harmony Day, recognising and celebrating our diversity that brings together Australians from many different backgrounds. The day is about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone. Students have welcomed the opportunity to wear orange or cultural attire and individual classes are focussing on harmony and what it means to each of us.

School Photos 

Yesterday was an extremely busy day as class, individual and special group photos were taken throughout the day. Thanks to all families for your efforts in making sure that our students looked their best. Sibling photos will be taken tomorrow.

Kind regards

Duncan