Principal's Report

The weeks seem to be passing so quickly, and already we are heading into Week 5 of Term 1. It has been wonderful to see our students participate in all school learning and extra curricular activities with so much enthusiasm and readiness to learn. Term 1 is always an important time for laying strong foundations, and our classrooms have been buzzing with purposeful learning and relationship building.

A Strong Start to Learning

Throughout Term 1, our focus has been on establishing clear learning routines and high expectations that set our students up for success. Teachers have been working closely with students to develop positive classroom expectations, organisational skills, and independent learning habits. We have taken time to set up effective bookwork practices, ensuring students take pride in presenting their work neatly and thoughtfully. These routines set up early in the year are critical in supporting academic growth throughout the year.

Celebrating Success

At Syndal South Primary School, we believe that recognising effort and achievement plays an essential role in building motivation and confidence in our students. We celebrate student success in a variety of meaningful ways. Our SWPBS token system encourages positive behaviours and learning habits, reinforcing our school values. Students are also acknowledged through weekly certificates which are proudly received at Monday Assembly each week.

Importantly, celebration at our school extends beyond awards. Teachers provide ongoing, specific learning feedback that helps students understand their progress and identify next steps. This feedback ensures that success is not only recognised but also used as a powerful tool for continuous improvement. We are proud of the way our students support and celebrate one another’s achievements.

Building Community Connections

Term 1 is also a wonderful opportunity to strengthen our partnerships with families. Our Meet and Greets provided valuable time for parents and carers to connect with classroom teachers, discuss learning goals and establish strong home–school communication. These early conversations help ensure that we are working together to support each child’s individual journey.

Our Welcome Picnic last Friday was a fantastic community event, bringing families and school staff together in a relaxed and friendly environment. A strong sense of community is one of the great strengths of Syndal South, and we thank our families for their continued involvement and support. Special thanks to the P.A and all of the parent helpers who cooked sausages, served and helped pack up on the night!

Student Free Day – Friday 6th March

A reminder that Friday 6th March is a Student Free Day. On this day, our teaching staff will be engaged in professional learning with respected Literacy expert Andrea Hillbrick. This work forms part of our ongoing commitment to strengthening literacy instruction across the school. By continuing to refine our teaching practices and deepen our understanding of evidence-based approaches, we ensure that our students benefit from the highest quality learning experiences. TeamKids will run a full day program for families that need this service.

A reminder also that Monday 9th March is a Public Holiday in Victoria so there will no school on this day.

Safety Awareness

The beginning of the school year is also a good time to speak with your children about safety before and after school and when travelling to and from school.  As we reminded families in our last newsletter, supervsion is provided at school between 8:50 and 9:00 before school each day, and 3:30 - 3:45 each afternoon.

Please be very mindful (and patient!) driving around the streets adjascent to the school during drop off and pick up times.  We encourage families to allow a few extra minutes in your day to manage the busy roads at these times and be speaking with your children about crossing roads safely.  Some safety helpful hints from Vic Roads is attached below to the newsletter this week.

If your child travels to school independantly, please speak regularly with them about the importance of walking/ riding straight to school/ home and not stopping along the way and not speaking to adults that they do not know.

Katelyn Joyce

Acting Principal