From the Principal's Desk

Welcome to Week 4, Term 2!

We are thrilled to share some wonderful highlights from recent events and initiatives at our school. Our small schools Athletics Carnival, held with the Thunderbolt Alliance and Wild Rivers Alliance schools, was a fantastic celebration of sport and school spirit. Congratulations to Rocky River for claiming the overall School Champion title! A special shoutout to Harrison, who was named Champion Senior Boy, and Elyse, our Champion MC Junior Girl - what amazing achievements. We are so proud of all the students who participated and gave their best, and we were delighted to see a big increase in attendance and enthusiasm this year. Thank you to everyone for showing true Rocky River spirit!

Last Sunday was Mother’s Day, and on behalf of the whole school community, we wish all mothers a very happy Mother’s Day. Our students worked so hard creating special gifts at school, and we hope all the mums enjoyed their thoughtful presents as much as we enjoyed seeing the creativity and care that went into making them.

Finally, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the daily acts of kindness that are becoming a key part of life at Rocky River School. Each day, students are encouraged to spread kindness through small, thoughtful actions that brighten someone’s day and uplift our whole community. Kindness is such a powerful way to connect with others—it not only helps those who receive it but also fills us with a sense of joy and belonging. It’s inspiring to see our students embracing this important value, making Rocky River a kinder, happier place for everyone.

School Re-build Project Update

I shared the following updates at the recent P&C meeting of on Monday 4th of May 2026:

• Demolition is complete, and a contract has now been awarded to the construction contractor for the main build of Building A. 
• During the demolition phase, a site meeting took place on Monday 4 May 2026 to discuss the next stage of site establishment. 
• Site establishment works will continue for over 2 weeks before construction work starts 
• During this construction, NSW Education asks all staff, students and community members to follow the signage that will be located outside the temporary fencing. 

• Further updates will be provided mid Term 2 2026. 

   

  The department can be contacted by phone on 1300 482 651 or by email schoolinfrastructure@det.nsw.edu.au

   

Student Behaviour Code

The NSW Department of Education has introduced a new Student Behaviour Code designed to create positive, respectful, and safe learning environments for all students. This code outlines clear expectations for behaviour, emphasising respect, responsibility, and inclusivity. It supports schools in promoting positive behaviours and provides a consistent framework for addressing challenges in a fair and supportive way. By encouraging students to make respectful choices and take responsibility for their actions, the code helps foster a school culture where everyone can learn, grow, and thrive. We encourage families to familiarise themselves with the new code and work in partnership with us to support our students’ wellbeing and success.

Community Charter

The Community Charter is a shared commitment between our school, students, families, and the wider community to work together in creating a safe, respectful, and supportive learning environment. It outlines the values and behaviours we all agree to uphold, including respect, collaboration, responsibility, and kindness. By embracing the Community Charter, we strengthen the partnerships that are vital to student wellbeing and success, ensuring that everyone feels valued and heard. This collaborative approach helps build a positive school culture where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, supported by a united and caring community. Together, we can create a welcoming space that celebrates diversity, nurtures growth, and inspires lifelong learning. We thank the Rocky River parent community for working with us each and every day in a safe, respectful way.

Speech Pathology - Successful Grant

We sincerely thank our P&C for their invaluable collaboration in applying for the ACEN SIP Grant, through which we were successful in receiving $5,000 to support our in-school speech pathology services. This funding is incredibly impactful, enabling us to continue providing this unique and vital service that supports our students’ communication skills and confidence. Having access to speech pathology within the school setting is a special opportunity that greatly benefits our students’ learning and wellbeing. We are grateful for the P&C’s ongoing commitment and partnership in enhancing the educational experience for all our children.

School Photo Day 2026

Our school photo day this year will be Friday 5th June (Week 7). Information notes were sent home last week to all students. Please contact Anne at the office if you have not received this information.

Gabi Gabun - Term 2

We love seeing little ones aged 0-5 attending the Gabi Gabun service at our school. Sessions will be held on even weeks this term on Wednesdays between 10am-12pm. The resources from Gubi Gabun are wonderful, we encourage all to take up this enriching and FREE service to all! Please spread the word to ensure everyone can make the most of this fantastic offering.  The next play session at Rocky River School will be on Wednesday 27th May.

Attendance

Please ensure your child's absences reasons are logged with the school. It is important that this communication comes through to the school via the correct channels:

• Absence submission through the School Bytes app (preferred method)
• Phone call to the school office: (02) 6778 4122
• Email to the school email address: rockyriver-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au 

Extended leave

Please remember to complete the extended leave or travel form if you are planning to take your children on holidays during the school terms. This must be completed prior to the planned travel.

Enrolling Now for 2027

We are enrolling now for our 2027 Kindergarten intake! Please contact the school office to chat with Anne or myself or visit our website to complete an online enrolment application https://rockyriver-p.schools.nsw.gov.au/ 

Kindest regards,

Dani Clyde-Smith

Principal