From the Principal – End of Term Reflections

As we reach the end of the school term, it has been a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the many highlights of the second half of the term. There have been further opportunities for our students to excel, challenge themselves, and showcase their talents across a wide range of areas.

Following their success at the local level, nine students represented our school at the Division Cross Country Championships, with three students progressing to the Regional Championships. Congratulations to Camilla Robertson, Sophie Stewart and Georgia Lewis on this outstanding achievement.

Our music program has also celebrated a significant milestone, with 38 students participating in the choir at this year's Eisteddfod—our largest choir to date. Many other students also showcased their individual talents through instrumental performances, speech and drama, and dance events as part of the Eisteddfod program.

One of the strengths I often highlight during parent tours is the quality of our specialist programs and the dedication of our specialist teachers. Their passion, expertise and commitment provide students with opportunities to develop their skills, pursue their interests, and experience success in areas beyond the traditional classroom.

This week I have had the pleasure of reading through our Semester 1 reports. It has been wonderful to see each student's strengths recognised and shared with families. Whether their strengths lie in reading, writing, mathematics, science, the arts, music or sport, every child has something to be proud of. Equally pleasing was seeing teachers acknowledge students' personal and social capabilities, supporting their ability to work with others.

None of us can be great at everything but our role is to help every student discover their strengths and understand the personal qualities that make them unique. I would like to thank our staff for the care, encouragement and commitment they show every day in working alongside our students and their families to support this journey. It is a privilege to watch our students grow not only as learners, but also as capable, confident and compassionate young people.

As we approach the end of term, several staff members will be taking Long Service Leave or other approved leave during the first few weeks of Term 3.

Mrs Sylvia Murray (3/4A) will be on Long Service Leave during Weeks 1 and 2, returning on Monday 27 July (Week 3). Mr Lachie Watt will increase to full-time in 3/4A during this period. Mrs Stewart will cover Mr Watt's Physical Education classes on Mondays and Tuesdays for the first two weeks of term.

Miss Callaway (3/4C) will be on Long Service Leave for the first five weeks of Term 3. Mrs Lou Kelson will teach the class during the first two weeks. Arrangements for the remaining three weeks will be finalised over the holiday break and communicated before Week 3.

Mr Daniel Brabham (5/6 ES) will be absent from Weeks 2–5 while completing his next teaching placement. Mrs Amanda Douglas has kindly agreed to increase her work days during this period to work in the 5/6 team.

Finally, I will be taking personal leave during Weeks 1 and 2, with the intention of returning at the beginning of Week 3. During my absence, Mrs Clarke and Mr Kelson will share the Acting Principal role. Mrs Clarke will lead the school on Mondays and Tuesdays, while Mr Kelson will be in charge Wednesday through to Friday. I sincerely thank them both for their support and willingness to step into the Acting Principal role and ensure the smooth running of the school during my absence.

Hamilton (Gray St) Primary School Newsletter

Respect, Relationships & Resilience

Issue 6 · 26 Jun 2026

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