Principal Report 

Oatlands from My Point of View

It has been a wonderful beginning to the new year at Oatlands Primary School. All grades have settled into the school routine very well and are establishing their positive classroom cultures so that they are set up for a strong year of learning. Attendance has been very good in the opening weeks of the year across the whole school, with the standout being our Prep students. They have achieved the highest percentage of attendance for the past two weeks. All classes have begun engaging in the Friendology program, which is something new at Oatlands. We believe it will help our students to build upon their friendship skills and their ability to uphold our values of respect and kindness. Currently our specific focus is on self-compassion, which in simple terms is being kind to yourself. 

Setting Up For Success

Each year, students work together to establish a strong classroom culture based on the Oatlands’ values. Creating classroom environments where there are established routines, high expectations for students, rules and values are in place and students feel included, are critical in providing the opportunity for everyone to thrive.

Swimming Carnival

Last week, our Grade 4-6 students had the opportunity to participate in our annual swimming carnival. While numbers were slightly down on previous years, the competition and sportsmanship were excellent as usual. It was terrific to see students having a go and trying their best. Having fun on the waterslide after the races was once great fun as usual. All the best to the students who qualified to represent Oatlands at district level. Thank you to our P.E Team, Sarah James, Kara Ellis and Martine Carmichael for organising a very well-run event. Thank you also to the Oatlands staff who helped in a variety of roles on the day. 

Getting To Know Your Child Meetings

This week most of our teachers have held Getting to Know Your Child meetings with families. These meetings provide a great opportunity to establish open lines of communication and for the sharing of key information that is vital for a successful year. 

Looking Forward

The first of our Grade 6 camps is currently underway down at Wilson’s Prom. Camp 2 is next week. Camping in tents, hiking, swimming, surfing, competing in a trivia quiz, watching a movie and performing in a talent show all add up to this camp being an unforgettable experience for our Grade 6 students. Also, later this term, we have NAPLAN testing for our Grade 3 & 5 students.

Matthew Kenny – Assistant Principal