Primary News

Melanie Sluyters

I hope all our families had a wonderful Term 2 break and that those parents who were able to take some time off work (even if it was a day or two) enjoyed precious moments connecting with their daughters. There's something truly special about having uninterrupted time together – whether it was sharing stories over breakfast, exploring new places, or simply enjoying each other's company without the usual rush of school routines.

 

The Louisa: Where Little Learners Meet the Derwent River

A new chapter in our Early Years began last week as the Louisa Centre opened its doors to our Kindergarten and Prep students, offering something truly special – a learning environment where the sounds of discovery blend seamlessly with the gentle flow of the River Derwent just beyond the windows.

 

The Louisa represents more than just another classroom; it's a carefully crafted sanctuary for young minds where natural light fills the learning spaces and the ever-changing river vista provides a living backdrop to daily adventures in learning. 

Step inside the Louisa Centre and you're immediately struck by something magical – the authentic sounds of our Kinder and Prep students echoing through the designed spaces. The squeals of delight as, the infectious laughter bubbling, and the excited chatter create a symphony that speaks to the heart of what early education should be.

 

These aren't just pleasant background noises; they're the audible proof that learning is happening organically, joyfully, and with the kind of enthusiasm that sets the foundation for a lifelong love of discovery.

The opening of the Louisa Centre represents more than just additional classroom space – it's a community's investment in providing the very best for some of our youngest.  By creating an environment where natural beauty, thoughtful design, and educational excellence converge, The Louisa sets a new standard for what early years education can be.


A Gentle Reminder- Extended Leave Form 

Parents are reminded that if you are planning a holiday during term time you are expected to complete an Extended Leave Form which can be found in the Attendance tab.  Although it is expected students are at school during term time I do recognise that on the occasion things come up but it is essential that the form is completed prior to departure.

 

Extended leave constitutes 5 days or more leave from school. Applications for Extended Leave due to Sports Representation, Family Travel and cultural reasons should be submitted at least 2 school weeks prior to the commencement of the leave to ensure key learning tasks, assessments and College events can be considered.


Term 3 Ahead

As we embark on Term 3, we're thrilled to share that we have an incredibly busy and exciting term ahead of us. Our school community will be buzzing with activities, learning opportunities, and events that will engage our students and bring our families together in meaningful ways. Details of our upcoming term can be found below with further information coming out through the normal channels such as email, The View and for less formal communication, Seesaw.

  • Science Week: Our emerging scientists will collaborate with Secondary teachers in an exciting celebration of everything that makes science engaging and inspiring from 11 August. .

  • Book Week: We'll honour the magic of reading through our Book Week - Book An Adventure celebration, featuring diverse activities that will lead up to our much-anticipated Book Week Parade on Friday 22 August at 9:30am. Further details will be shared as the date approaches.

  • Arts Festival: We're placing the Arts at the heart of our community celebration, with festivities reaching their peak on Friday 5 September.

  • Primary Athletics Carnival: On Tuesday 9 September where our ELC - Year 6 students will run, jump, play and laugh their way around the Domain Athletics Centre.

  • Tournament of Minds: Our Year 5 and 6 students are currently immersed in solving their TOM challenge, which they will present on Saturday 13 September.

  • Canberra Excursion: Our Year 6 students, accompanied by staff members, will embark on their five-day educational journey to Australia's capital city, departing Monday 15 September.

  • Footy Colours Day: A chance to show off your team's jumper and sing loudly the team song will be held in the last week of term, date to be advised.

  • Academic Competitions: Students will have opportunities to participate in various academic challenges including ICAS, AMC, and Maths Relay competitions.


SeeSaw

A reminder to parents that SeeSaw is an informal communication channel for sharing photos and news of what has been happening in our classrooms on a day-to-day basis.

Any formal communication to teachers needs to be sent via email and for any urgent messages (such as a change to pick up location or time) must be made via a phonecall to the College Office on 6216 7900.