Dear Parents/Carers,

SPECIALIST TEACHERS

At Warrnambool Primary School we are very proud of our Specialist Teachers and Specialist program. These programs highlight the diverse and comprehensive educational opportunities provided to students at Warrnambool Primary School.

Physical Education - Cherine Owen

Cherine Owen is responsible for the Physical Education program, which is vital for promoting physical fitness, teamwork, and healthy lifestyle habits among students.

The PE program includes a variety of sports, physical activities, and fitness challenges designed to improve students' physical abilities and foster a love for active living.

Cherine is a passionate and long-serving teacher, parent and school council member at Warrnambool Primary School.

Art - Donna Dixon

Donna Dixon leads our Art program, which encourages creativity, self-expression, and appreciation of visual arts.

Students explore different art mediums and techniques, learn about art history, and develop their artistic skills through various projects and exhibitions. The highlight for the year is undoubtedly the Art show in November.

Japanese - John Papadopoulos

John Papadopoulos teaches Japanese, offering students the opportunity to learn a new language and gain insights into Japanese culture.

The Japanese program includes language instruction, cultural activities, and events that help students develop their language skills and cultural understanding. John is a long-standing staff member at Warrnambool Primary School.

Science - Stephanie Hann

Stephanie Hann oversees the Science program, sparking curiosity and fostering a love for scientific exploration among students.

The Science program includes hands-on experiments, inquiry-based learning, and projects that cover various scientific disciplines, encouraging students to think critically and understand the world around them. Steph has taught for many years at Warrnambool Primary School in classroom roles and as a specialist.

These specialist programs enrich the educational experience at Warrnambool Primary School by providing students with diverse opportunities to explore their interests, develop new skills, and gain a broader understanding of different subjects. The dedication and expertise of Cherine Owen, Donna Dixon, John Papadopoulos, and Stephanie Hann play a crucial role in nurturing well-rounded and inquisitive learners.

WINTER SPORTS

Thank you to all the students and staff who participated in and coached the sports teams this week. It was a great day for all involved and the sports were played in good spirits and perfect conditions.

NATIONAL SORRY DAY

Every year on 26th May, National Sorry Day remembers and acknowledges the mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who were forcibly removed from their families and communities, which we now know as ‘The Stolen Generations’.

National Sorry Day is a day to acknowledge the strength of Stolen Generations Survivors and reflect on how we can all play a part in the healing process for our people and nation. While this date carries great significance for the Stolen Generations and other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, it is also commemorated by Australians right around the country. At Warrnambool Primary School we remember this day and acknowledge it with a display of purple flowers in breezeway of the school. The five-petal Native Hibiscus (Native Cotton, Desert Rose) is the official national symbol of the Stolen Generations and the colours symbolise compassion and spiritual healing.

We will also be doing a whole school photo-shoot on the oval recognising this important day. It will involve a drone shot from above. If you do not wish for your child to be in the shot please let us know.

https://www2.education.vic.gov.au/pal/drones/policy#

NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK

National Reconciliation Week is an important annual event in Australia, held from May 27th to June 3rd, dedicated to fostering reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians. It aims to promote understanding, respect, and justice for Indigenous communities.

The week is anchored by two significant dates in Australia's history:

May 27: The anniversary of the 1967 referendum, which saw over 90% of Australians vote to amend the constitution to include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the census and allow the federal government to create laws for them.

June 3: The anniversary of the 1992 Mabo decision, in which the High Court of Australia recognized Native Title and rejected the doctrine of terra nullius (the idea that Australia was "land belonging to no one" before European settlement).

At Warrnambool PS we participate in Reconciliation Week by promoting discussions, and supporting Indigenous voices and initiatives.

National Reconciliation Week plays a crucial role in the ongoing process of healing and building a more equitable and inclusive Australia. It provides an opportunity for all Australians to come together, learn from the past, and work towards a more just future.

SES ORANGE DAY

SES Orange Day is an event organised by the State Emergency Service (SES) in various Australian states to recognize and celebrate the dedicated efforts of SES volunteers. These volunteers play a crucial role in responding to emergencies and natural disasters, such as floods, storms, and search and rescue operations. Orange Day is an opportunity for communities to show their appreciation and support for the SES volunteers who work tirelessly to keep people safe.

The day raises awareness about the vital work of the SES and encourages the public to learn more about emergency preparedness and the role of SES volunteers.

The day serves as a platform to formally recognize and thank SES volunteers for their service, dedication, and bravery.

SES Orange Day typically features the color orange, which is associated with the SES uniform, and participants are encouraged to wear orange to show their support. It’s a day for communities to come together and express their gratitude for the SES volunteers' invaluable contributions to public safety and emergency management. It’s a reminder that the SES are always looking for volunteers to keep their organisation running and to provide peace of mind for our community.

BIOCATS EXCURSION

Several of our senior Indigenous students were invited to participate in a program called BioCats on Monday. The excursion was planned by KESO (Koorie Education Support Officer) Stephen Young.

Thank you to our Koorie Engagement Support Officers, Gina Mills and Bobby Cunningham for organising and attending also. We sent a large contingent of our indigenous students from across the Network to be inspired by Geelong footballers regarding the life of top athletes. The free full-day program delivered by the Deakin Cats Community Centre provides students and teachers with an opportunity to experience a day in the life of an elite athlete through GPS data tracking and analysis, the skill of handballing and the importance of nutrition and hydration and the benefits that come from sports participation. Two of our students won jerseys and the school was gifted 3 new footballs.

Well done to all involved and thankyou to Jess Arnott for assisting on the day.

NO ASSEMBLY - MONDAY 27TH MAY

Unfortunately with the Year 3 Camp and a number of staff/students absent on Monday we are cancelling assembly. Weekly awards will be presented the following week.

WORKING BEE

A warm thank you to all the families who assisted at the recent working bee. Your hard work and dedication greatly contribute to the school's community spirit and environment. A special thanks to Clinton Brown for his exceptional effort in organising the event, ensuring everything ran smoothly and efficiently.

The collective effort in maintaining and improving the school grounds not only enhances the learning environment for the students but also fosters a sense of pride and belonging among everyone involved. Your support and cooperation are highly valued and appreciated. Thank you once again for your commitment and teamwork!

STAFF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DAY

Last Friday on our Pupil Free Day staff participated in a professional development day at Deakin University. Staff took away lots of information that can easily be carried out throughout the school.

Have a great weekend.

Peter Lee

Principal

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