Principal's Message

Last week the Principal team were lucky enough to attend the C4 Conference at the Parkroyal Monash, for Principals and Assistant Principals across the Casey and Cardinia networks.

We learnt a lot about Artificial Intelligence (AI) both pros and cons, the importance of wellbeing and self care, how as educational settings we can try to reduce the occurrences of gender-based violence and heard stories of resilience. 

A big thank you to Mr Singh, Mrs Zach and Mr Turvey for stepping up in our absence. 

I'd also like to make a special mention to Yoshi for assisting with the coordination and running of assembly, in my absence!!

Victorian State Schools Spectacular

Woweeee!! What a superb job our 16 performers did when they performed in both the matinee and night time shows at John Cain Arena on Saturday 14th September. A lot of work and preparation had been put in by students and families, but a special shoutout to Ms Lisa Scott and Ms Carmen Collins for getting our students ready for the big show!

So many rehearsals and so much organisation and I am very grateful for the time and energy they placed into assisting our students to represent Hillsmeade so spectacularly! Congratulations to all.

Year 6 Camp

As you read this newsletter I will be on City Camp with our awesome Year 6 students! 

We will visit the Queen Victoria Market, Old Melbourne Gaol, Imax and the Zoo to name a few!

I look forward to sharing stories with our community upon my return and hopefully you will hear from the Year 6 students about all the adventures they had during their final primary school camp!

Junior Swimming Program

Last week our Year 1,2 & 3 classes all participated in a four day intensive swimming program at Kings Narre Warren. It was an exhausting week, but a timely reminder about how to stay safe and understand how to swim, with summer around the corner. A big thank you to Paul Hill and Jeff McGann for their organisation and providing this opportunity for our students.

RUOK Day

As mentioned on Compass, RUOK Day is an important day for our Hillsmeade family. We see it as an opportunity to really check in on each other. Although this day was recognised on Thursday 12th September, it should be an ongoing conversation throughout the year for everyone. I'd like to thank Abbie Sheers and Todd Caldwell for their staff brekky preparations and for ensuring the day was discussed and incorporated into classroom activities.

End of Term 3 - EARLY DISMISSALTOMORROW

Just a reminder that the last day of Term 3 is tomorrow-Friday 20th September. 

School will finish at 2.30pm. 

OSHC will be available from that time.

Term 4 Begins Monday 7th October

I will be on leave for the first four days of Term 4, with Paul Hill stepping into the Acting Principal role for this time.

CLASS PLACEMENT REQUESTS FOR 2025

As per previous years, families have the opportunity to place a request for their child's class placement in 2025. All requests must be in writing via email to hillsmeade.ps@education.vic.gov.au and addressed to Linda Buckeridge by 11th October 2024. Requests are to be based on student learning needs. Please be assured that all requests will be considered however, they are not guaranteed.

Term 4 Reminders

Monday 4th November - Regular classes not running - class teachers unavailable. Staff completing their Professional Practice Day.

Tuesday 5th November - CUP DAY Public Holiday

Wednesday 27th November - Curriculum Day - OSHC available

Monday 9th December - End Of Year Extravaganza 4.00pm - 5.15pm on the synthetic oval

Tuesday 10th December - Statewide Transition Day

Thursday 12th December - Year 6 Graduation

Friday 13th December - Year 6 Big Day Out

Monday 16th December - Year 2 Day Camp

Monday 16th December - LAST DAY of 2024 classes

Tuesday 17th December - FIRST DAY of 2025 classes

Thursday 19th December - Last day of school year for students. 2.30pm dismissal

Friday 20th December - Curriculum Day - No students at school, OSHC unavailable.

** More information to be provided in Term 4 regarding the HPS STEP UP program, including commencement of 2025 classes at the end of this year.