This Week At OOPS
100 Days of Prep
Last week our Preps enjoyed their 100 days of prep celebration. The students proudly ticked off the final day in their 100-day countdown and enjoyed a range of fun activities to mark this special milestone. Throughout the day they decorated their own sunglasses, created a picture using the number 100, designed a crown, shared delicious 100s & 1000s fairy bread, teamed up with their buddies for a special 100 themed activity and finished off the day with a disco.
What a fantastic way to celebrate 100 days of learning, growing and shining bright in Prep!
Science Week at OOPS!
Our school has been buzzing with excitement as students celebrated Science Week! Classes have been filled with curiosity as students explored activities including Magic Milk, Colour-Changing Celery, Balloon Rockets and Helicopter Cups, discovering the science behind each experiment.
A highlight of the week has been our whole-school Egg Drop Challenge, where every class designed and built a protective container using recycled and classroom materials to keep an egg safe when dropped from a height. It has been wonderful to see students working collaboratively, thinking creatively and applying their problem-solving skills.
Students also enjoyed an exciting Mad Science Show, exploring the fascinating world of air, electricity and fire. From giant smoke rings and levitating balls to flying toilet paper and hair-raising static electricity, there were plenty of laughs, surprises and "wow" moments.
It has been fantastic to see students across the school so engaged in science, asking thoughtful questions, testing ideas and discovering that science is everywhere!
Supporting Mental Health and Wellbeing at Home
At Old Orchard Primary School, we know that positive mental health and wellbeing are essential for children to learn, build relationships and thrive. While school plays an important role, families are equally important in helping children develop the confidence, resilience, and skills they need to navigate life's ups and downs.
The Victorian Government has developed a range of practical resources for parents and carers that highlight simple ways to support children's wellbeing at home. These include:
- encouraging healthy sleep, eating and physical activity
- building strong, positive relationships
- praising effort and encouraging positive self-talk
- practising mindfulness, kindness and gratitude
- developing social and emotional skills
- supporting healthy online habits
- knowing when and how to seek help if needed.
The resources also remind us that mental health exists on a continuum. Everyone experiences times when they are flourishing, doing okay or finding life more challenging. Open conversations, supportive relationships and seeking help early can make a real difference.
We encourage all families to explore the Department of Education's parent resources, which include practical strategies, age-specific advice and links to trusted parenting supports.
Learn more: https://www.vic.gov.au/promoting-mental-health-and-wellbeing-home
Please contact Adam Todd at adam.todd@education.vic.gov.au if you have any questions.