Saltwater College Newsletter

Year Six 

Dear Year Six Families,

 

Dear Year 6 Families,

As we approach the final weeks of the school year, I am thrilled to reflect on the outstanding accomplishments of our Year 6 students and share important details about our upcoming Graduation Ceremony.

Rugby Army Gala Day – A Showcase of Sportsmanship and Leadership

On Thursday, 28th November, our Year 6 students represented Saltwater P-9 College with pride and integrity at the Rugby Army Gala Day. Watching them in action, both on and off the field, was an inspiring experience. Their conduct exemplified the PYP Learner Profile attributes, and I want to commend them for:

  • Courage: Many students stepped out of their comfort zones, demonstrating bravery in challenging situations. Whether trying a new position on the field or facing tough opposition, they persisted with determination.
  • Teamwork: The day highlighted their ability to work collaboratively, supporting one another through highs and lows. They communicated effectively, showing that together, we achieve more.
  • Respect: Their interactions with teammates, coaches, and competitors were filled with kindness and humility, reinforcing the values we strive to instill.
  • Balanced Approach: Students managed the intensity of competition with grace, celebrating wins with joy and handling losses with maturity.
  • Reflective Thinking: Between matches, many students sought feedback and considered how they could improve, embodying the spirit of lifelong learning.

Families, you should be incredibly proud of your children! Days like this remind us that education is about so much more than academics—it's about character, and our Year 6 students have it in abundance.

Celebrating Growth and Success: The Importance of Year 6 Graduation

As we approach our much-anticipated Year 6 Graduation, I want to take a moment to reflect on the significance of this milestone. Graduation is not just an event; it is a celebration of your children’s growth, resilience, and achievements throughout their journey at Saltwater College’s Kirra campus.

Over the years, our Year 6 students have developed not only academically but socially and emotionally, embodying the attributes of the PYP Learner Profile that prepare them to be active, compassionate, and lifelong learners. This event provides a moment to pause and acknowledge:

  • Success in Every Form: Graduation is a time to honor every student's unique journey and triumphs, whether academic achievements, personal growth, or contributions to our vibrant community.
  • Community and Belonging: It serves as a reminder of the supportive environment that has shaped them and the friendships and connections that will last a lifetime.
  • Preparation for the Future: With eyes set on their next chapter, this is a moment to celebrate their readiness for new challenges at Saltwater College’s Coaching Parade Campus.

Graduation symbolizes the end of one chapter and the beginning of another—a bridge between the familiar and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. We are so proud of our Year 6 cohort and can’t wait to see what they accomplish in secondary school and beyond.

 

It is hard to believe that Graduation is just around the corner. Our Year 6 Graduation Ceremony will be held on Thursday, 5th December and promises to be a memorable event for students, families, and staff alike. Below is the schedule for the evening to ensure the event runs smoothly:

 

Running Order of Events

  • 12::00pm: Early Dismissal for Students
  • 3:00pm: Teachers arrive for event setup
  • 4:00pm: Students performing arrive for their rehearsal
  • 4:30pm: Pizza for performers
  • 4:45pm: All Year 6 students to arrive (This is crucial for a successful rehearsal!)
  • 5:00pm: Full graduation rehearsal
  • 5:45pm: Doors open for family seating
  • 6:00pm: Ceremony begins with our student MCs

Ceremony Highlights:

  • Acknowledgement of Country
  • Principal’s Opening Address Jackie Daniali
  • Certificates presented by homeroom teachers
  • Student reflections on their primary school journey
  • Awards celebrating outstanding achievements
  • Performances by our talented Dance Extension group and Year 6 cohort
  • School Song and closing remarks by our Assistant Principal Michael Nicolaides

We expect the event to conclude by 9:00pm, and light refreshments will be available after the formalities.

 

Important Notes for Families:

  • Please ensure your child arrives on time for rehearsals at 4:45pm, dressed in their graduation attire.
  • Doors will open for parents at 5:45pm—please be seated promptly to avoid delays

This evening is a culmination of your children’s primary school journey—a time to celebrate their growth, resilience, and readiness for the exciting challenges ahead in secondary school.

Thank you for your continued support in making Saltwater P-9 College such a special place for our learners. If you have any questions regarding the Gala Day or Graduation, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

A Strong Start: Early Transition to Secondary School

At Saltwater College, we recognize the importance of a smooth transition from primary to secondary school, particularly for students moving within our campus system to Saltwater College Coaching Parade. A thoughtful and proactive transition ensures all students feel confident and supported as they embark on this new stage of their education.

For our Year 6 students, especially those requiring additional support, we have implemented a comprehensive Early Transition Program designed to meet diverse needs and provide a seamless introduction to their secondary schooling experience.

Key Transition Measures:

Meet and Greet with 2025 Teachers

  • Students have had the opportunity to meet some of their future subject teachers. This face-to-face interaction allows students to begin building connections and gain a sense of familiarity with those who will guide their learning next year.

Tour of the New Grounds and Facilities

  • Students were taken on a guided tour of the Coaching Parade campus. Exploring these spaces firsthand has helped students envision themselves in this new environment, reducing any apprehension about the unknown.

Leadership Team Introduction

  • The Year 6 cohort had the privilege of meeting the Assistant Principal and Leadership Team at Coaching Parade, including Mr. Doyle, Ms. Colling, Ms. Mann, and Mr. McInerney. These introductions were invaluable in establishing relationships and reassuring students that the leadership team is approachable, supportive, and invested in their success.

Personalised Support for Early Transition Students

  • For students requiring additional support, we’ve coordinated one-on-one meetings with staff to discuss individual needs and develop tailored strategies for their transition. This includes academic adjustments, social integration plans, and regular check-ins to ensure their confidence and engagement as they move into Year 7.

Building Confidence and Belonging

Transitioning to secondary school is a significant step, and our program aims to foster a sense of excitement and readiness. By helping students feel connected to their new campus and staff, we ensure that they start their secondary journey on solid ground.

Our early transition initiatives also reflect our broader commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that every student, regardless of their unique needs, has access to the tools and support required for success.

 

We are confident that this robust approach will set our Year 6 students up for a positive and rewarding experience at Saltwater College Coaching Parade Campus. Together, we are shaping a generation of resilient, curious, and capable learners who are ready to thrive in their next chapter.

 

If you have any questions about the transition program or need further support, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Warm regards,

 

IMPORTANT DATES

  • Thursday 5th of December: 
    Year Six Graduation

REMINDERS

  • HATS: A friendly reminder that as a Sun Smart school, students must be wearing a wide brimmed hat in Term 4. Please ensure your child has a clearly labelled hat.
  • MacBooks: Please ensure MacBooks are brought to school every day fully charged. Unfortunately, due to OH&S reasons, students cannot charge their devices at school.
  • Mobile Phones: If a student brings a phone to school, they must hand it to their classroom teacher at the beginning of the day and collect it at the end of the day.
  • Uniform: Students must wear full academic uniform every day, with the exception of their Year 6 polo shirt. On days with sports or PE, students can wear their PE uniform. Students are not allowed to wear other jumpers or hoodies that are not Saltwater Uniform. Please contact Miss Grenfell or Mr Nicolaides if you have an issue with uniforms.
  • Late Arrivals: Students arriving at school from 8:40 am must sign in at the office before going to class.
  • Absences: If your child/ren are absent, please log this on Xuno as early as possible to avoid messages for unexplained absences.

Kindest regards,

Michael Nicolaides and the Year 6 Team