Principal's Report

By Frank Catalano

Dear Members of the Glen Waverley Primary School Community,

I trust all is well with you and your family and welcome to the first newsletter for Term Four, where so much is shared about our wonderful school.

As per usual, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to see me at school or contact me on 9802 9938 or via email at frank.catalano@education.vic.gov.au.

Beginning of Term Four

Welcome back everyone and I trust you’ve had a wonderful Spring break. As we ‘power through’ Term Four and head towards the end of the 2024 academic year, please ensure you refer to the Important Dates For Your Diary section of our school newsletter as it is very crucial that families are aware of what is planned.

Welcome to the following students and their families to our school family

May I take the opportunity to welcome the following students and their families, to the Glen Waverley PS family:

Prep: Helios and Samaira

One: Hayden and Sankrith

Year Five: Hanyi

Year Six: Bella

Facilities Update

During the Spring school holidays, the following facilities related tasks were completed:

Continue earth moving and landscaping works associated with the new Year 6 play and recreational area
Installed a new optic fibre network link between Block A (the main building) and Block B (the Year 3 building) as the original link had become frayed and was intermittently dropping in and out
Topped up the mulch in the garden beds and sand in the sandpits and
Installed some additional asphalt at the bottom staff car park.

Attached are some photos for your enjoyment and as always, thank you everyone as your willingness to settle school accounts make the above possible.

Our visit to our sister school, Araria Springs Primary School, Christchurch, New Zealand

Ms. Seach and I had the privilege of visiting our sister-school, Araria Springs PS, which coincidentally was located a short trip away from where we were staying during the Trans-Tasman Principals’ conference. The school is relatively new as it opened a mere 6 years ago with approx. 90 students, now the populations is approx. 450 and should grow to 700 – 750 in the next few years. Aesthetically, it is a beautiful looking school with ample withdrawal spaces, wet areas and play area for the children to enjoy.

Upon arrival, we were greeted with a ‘short’ pōwhiri, which was incredibly moving and unexpected! A pōwhiri a traditional Māori welcoming ceremony performed to acknowledge and greet visitors. It is a significant cultural practice that showcases tikanga Māori customs, protocols, and values. The purpose of a pōwhiri is to establish a respectful and harmonious connection between the hosts and the visitors.

We then spent some time with their principal, Claire Howison, who went through a presentation, that provided an overview of the school’s values, culture, naming convention, curriculum etc. It was fascinating experience in which Helen Hassiotis has replicated in a display which is located in the corridor of the main building - may I encourage everyone to peruse it.

We had morning tea with the staff and then a tour of the school by 2 of their students. Then we had the pleasure of sharing a recording that Sam, Veer, Eva and Tiana (Year 4) made of our school with the assistance of Mr. Lewis. We shared this with the classes that have been working with our children. The Araria Springs PS students were very impressed and grateful as the recording enabled them to develop an even better understanding of our school’s learning programs and facilities!

What really struck Ms. Seach, and I is the deep and very authentic connection the staff and children have with the traditional custodians of the land, something that is trying to be replicated in Australia, however, I think we have a very long way to go!

Overall, it was a very successful visit, and not only do I look forward to the learning continuing between the children and staff, but also Claire visiting our school next year.

Also included are some photographs of Alisha (Year 4), who recently went on a family holiday to New Zealand and made the effort to visit our sister-school. Unfortunately, the school was closed for their holidays and she wasn’t able to go inside and see some of her peers – perhaps next time. Thank you, Alisha, for doing so as it demonstrates a huge connection and commitment to your learning!

2024 Trans -Tasman Principal’s Conference

As mentioned in our previous newsletter, throughout the final week of Term Three, Ms. Seach and I had the pleasure of attending the Trans-Tasman Principal’s conference in Christchurch, New Zealand. Below is an overview of our learning.

Dr. Hana O'Regan, highlighted the impact of colonial policies on minority groups, particularly through the suppression of indigenous languages. She shared examples from Wales, Ireland, Native American tribes, Uganda, and Aboriginal Australia, where native languages were banned in schools, often under threat of punishment. The Māori experience paralleled these histories, with te reo Māori banned in schools in 1903, and despite efforts by educators in the 1930s, it wasn't until 1975 that te reo began to revive, with less than 5% of Māori children speaking it by that time. Dr. O'Regan emphasized the importance of understanding these histories and dismantling negative stereotypes to foster respect for indigenous knowledge and cultures.

Her message underscored the need to challenge societal narratives and promote inclusivity, encouraging the audience to be mindful of the power of language and cultural representation. She urged educators and leaders to respect and integrate diverse cultural perspectives into learning environments, supporting a more equitable future for all learners. This week, as New Zealand celebrates Māori Language Week, the resurgence of te reo is increasingly visible, with many schools now offering immersion programs. The presence of the Māori language in public spaces has become a natural part of life for many, signifying positive strides toward inclusivity and cultural respect.

As mentioned in my reflection of our visit to Araria Springs PS, although it is wonderful that Australia is beginning this journey, we do have a long way to go to meet what is occurring in New Zealand.

Dr. Jordan Nguyen, shared his revolutionary work in assistive technology, designed to improve the lives of people with disabilities. Dr. Nguyen’s innovations include a mind-controlled wheelchair and eye-tracking technology that enables individuals with mobility challenges to interact with their environment using their thoughts or eye movements. He also highlighted the broader applications of technology, such as AI to track endangered species, gene-editing to create crops for arid environments, and the use of radio telescopes for space exploration. His inspiring message—"Dream big and take action"—resonated strongly with Ms. Seach and I, reinforcing the power of innovation in transforming lives.

What resonated with me is that Jordan mentioned that he wasn’t the brightest student in class, in fact, he often struggled to make the connection between what was being taught and the relevance of it. As a parent, grandparent and teacher, the importance of ensuring children see the connection between what is learnt and the ‘real world’ is very, very important! As a school principal, this further resonated to ensure that we continue to provide learning opportunities that the children not only enjoy, but also spark their creativity and imagination!

Sophie Renton of McCrindle Research focused on how schools can build thriving communities in the face of rapid societal and technological changes. Central to this vision is fostering strong relationships among students, staff, and the wider community, ensuring that everyone feels valued and heard. She emphasized the importance of integrating wellbeing into the school’s values, supporting both academic and emotional development, while also advocating for staff wellbeing to prevent burnout. Sophie also stressed the need for schools to remain agile and adaptable, embracing future-ready learning that equips students for the challenges of tomorrow. This approach aligns with the strategic goals of many schools and reinforces the ongoing importance of innovation and community in education.

I am very proud of the wonderful culture we have at GWPS, however this is something that we all need to work hard on continually developing, particularly considering the constant changes occurring in education and the world in general.

Gilbert Enoka has a long history of success as a mental skills coach with New Zealand’s corporate and sporting elite. He is internationally renowned for his 23-year history with the New Zealand national rugby team, The All Blacks, first as their mental skills coach and then as All Blacks Manager - Leadership. Gilbert’s philosophy is about inspiring and motivating others in order for individuals to reach their full potential. He uses phrases such as:

You will never raise above the expectation or opinion of yourself.
Choices not chances determine destiny.
Your past does not have to equal your future.
What is your ‘work joy’? Rather than venting about negative things, vent/share the joys you experience.
Timeless principles:
- There is no silver bullet – you need to be disciplines, put on your overalls and do the work!
- Culture eats strategy for breakfast – spend time developing both! Most people focus on the strategy, a strong culture is very important.
- Be where your feet are – be present, particularly with family and friends.
- Be your best, when your best is needed!
- As a leader, opportunity whispers, it doesn’t shout – be prepared and open to opportunities.

Gilbert was a very inspirational speaker, his messages were very clear and centred around the fact that, we are in control of our own destiny, and we must ‘put on our overalls’ and get the work done. When relating this message to the children, staff and parents, I think it is important that we keep this in mind as Tim Notke’s famous quote suggests, “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard.”

Steve Francis – Getting Traction: Turning Goals into Action

Steve shared his biography which included Principalship at several Queensland Primary Schools and an International school in Hong Kong. Some of his key messages were:

People need leadership … everything else needs to be managed
What people look for in leaders (from a Gallop poll) … Trust, Compassion, Stability and Hope
Leaders need to be proactive and organised (as opposed to reactive and last minute)
Elements which are crucial in leading change … A compelling vision, a staged plan, delivery of training, provision of resources and the enactment of momentum (and the consequences if an element is missing)

There is a plethora of research around the difference between leadership and management. The fact of the matter is that, both are important however, when dealing with people of any age, “people need leadership.”

Overall Ms. Seach and I thoroughly enjoyed the Trans-Tasman Principal’s conference as we were provided with the opportunity to learn from so many renowned and world-class speakers, whilst also learning and networking with peers from across New Zealand and Australia.

Council of International Schools (CIS) Preparatory Visit

During the second week of the school holidays, I had the pleasure and honour of being asked to complete the CIS Preparatory visit at The Kids Academy International School, Thailand. The school was purposefully built to cater for children from approx. 18 months to the end of the primary school years and is one of four schools that are owned by the Suvanamas family. Overall the review was very successful and now the school has been provided with a set of recommendations which should see them achieve their goal of being an Accredited member of the Council of International Schools.

As the other three campuses are a short drive from one another, we took the opportunity to visit them. Each have been designed with a particular theme in mind and as you will note from the photographs, the thinking and consideration behind the construction is quite amazing!

Congratulations to the following children for their recent achievements:

It is wonderful that the children continue to pursue their interests outside of school, below are some of the most recent achievements:

Singing and Acting:

Congratulations to Akshara (Year 4) and Ayaan (Year 6) who continue to achieve amazing things on stage. Throughout the year they were part of the Victorian State School Spectacular (Principal) Choir and recently they informed me of the following amazing achievements:

Akshara participated in the Knox Factor annual singing competition (age group 5-11 category) held by the Knox City Council. She auditioned earlier this year and was invited to participate in the heats, which were held during the school holidays. Akshara performed a shortened version of Whitney Houston’s Classic "Greatest Love of All" and did exceptionally well, in fact she qualified for the semi-finals. As a result of this, she was offered the opportunity to be mentored by industry specialists Andrea Cobern and Paige Reinheimer.

Unfortunately, Akshara won't be able to perform in the semifinals because the date clashes with the Year 4 camp, however she looks forward to participating next year and hopes to do even better!

Ayaan has been participating in different community performances this year. One of the major one's is a musical drama about the great Indian King, 'Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj'. Ayaan is playing one of the main characters of the young king. He performed in front of a full house on the 19th of May at the Bujil Place in front of 1000 people. On the 12th of October, he will be performing the same play in Adelaide and next year, another performance in Melbourne.

His role has been highly appreciated within the Maharashtrian community in Melbourne and across Australia. He also been featured in a few newspapers in India.

Basketball: A big congratulations to Eva (Year 4) and her team, the Waverley Comets Rubies, for winning the Girls U12 Division 5 Premiership! Fantastic effort, Eva – keep up the great work! Here's what she shared with me:

Dear Mr Catalano,

I have been participating in Waverly Basketball for 5 yrs. I would like to inform you that me and my team, the Comet Rubies, crushed the finals for the second time in two years! We were against the Macabie Bucks which was a really close game scoring 4 points apart. I scored the last goal in the last 20 seconds. I am super proud of my team.

Regards Eva.

Chess:

During the recent school holidays, Amaya (Year 4) and Janhavi (Year 3) participated in the Victorian State Junior Classical Chess Tournament organised by Chess Victoria where Amaya placed 2nd in Victoria and Janhavi 3rd in the Under 10-Girls Category, which is naturally an amazing achievement! Well done and congratulations Amaya and Janhavi!

Amaya also participated in the State Rapid Chess Tournament and once again placed second in Victoria. What a might effort Amaya – well done, congratulations and keep up the amazing effort and commitment towards your chosen sport!

Continuing the chess theme, one of our alumni, Vidushi who is now in Year 7, created history by winning the under 12 Open (boys and girls) category. Vidushi competed against the best boys in the state and won all of the 7 games she played. Clearly, this is an amazing achievement and something that we are incredibly proud of – well done and congratulations Vidushi!

Rubric’s Cube competition:

Congratulations to Daham (Year 4) who recently participated in a Rubric’s Cube competition, where he completed the 4 x 4 cube in a time of 1 min and 35 seconds, which is just short of his personal best of 1 min 29 seconds. Daham reported that the competition was very tough and he placed 43rd out of 55 participants. Well done and keep it up Daham, I’m sure with continued practice you will surpass your PB shortly!

Cricket:

Congratulations to Minza (Year 3) and Krisha (Year 5) who have been selected in the under 12’s regional representative team. To qualify for this team is a fabulous achievement and to do so as an 8 and 10 year old is even more special! Well done Minza and Krisha we are all very, very proud of you and we look forward to hearing how you go as you progress with your respective cricket careers!

Robotics:

Sarvang (Year 5) loves all things robotics, and he has been participating in the VEXIQ robotics lessons over the past two year. Recently he informed me that his team have qualified for the Robotics National championships which are being held in Sydney on 5th and 6th December. Naturally this is a fabulous achievement and something that we are all incredibly proud of – well done and congratulations Sarvang, we look forward to hearing how you go at the Nationals!!

Student Learning Awards

As a school community it is very important that we acknowledge and celebrate the wonderful achievements of our staff, parents and students. One way of accomplishing this is by participating in award ceremonies throughout the year and at the end of each term. Our end of term award is provided by the Kiwanis Club of Waverley and we are extremely grateful for their continued support to our school in the form of the Terrific Kids program. The program is a student recognition program that promotes character development, self-esteem, and perseverance. At our school the teachers nominate one student from each area of the school – Preps, 1/2, 3/4 and 5/6.

Congratulations to the following students who received The Terrific Kids Award for Term Three 2024:

Name	Level	Reason
Deena	Prep C	For her wonderful example of what it means to be a great role model, consistently showing care and consideration towards others. Deena challenges herself in all aspects of her learning and takes the initiative to contribute positively to the school community. She exemplifies the highest standards of the school values of; Respect, Initiative, integrity and Global Empathy. Deena consistently demonstrates kindness and consideration towards her peers, and her outgoing personality has brought warmth and positivity to all those around her. Deena always shows empathy to others and will often check-in on other students. She demonstrates active involvement in her learning and this is reflected in her determination to make each day at school one which is highly valued. Congratulations Deena!
Sosha	1A	Congratulations, Sosha, on your amazing progress this year! You've shown tremendous growth in listening to instructions and following classroom expectations, which has helped you complete your work to the best of your ability. I'm especially proud of how you've been able to regulate your emotions and recognise the feelings of others. These are important skills that will help you both in school and in life. Keep up the great work—your determination and positive attitude are really shining through! You're doing a fantastic job, and I’m so excited to see all the wonderful things you'll achieve in Term 4!
Jessy	3C	Throughout Term 3, Jessy has consistently demonstrated behaviours aligned with our classroom expectations and school values. She has shown great care to everyone in her class, classroom properties and school equipment. Not only did she respect everyone in the school, but she constantly strives to achieve her best academically and wellbeing. Jessy shows initiative to help teachers out and clean up the classroom. She usually kindly reminds her classmates of their behaviours to reach the expectations as well. Jessy, you are like a little sun beaming bright light, and you should be very proud of all your work at school and your care for others. Well done and keep up with your positive attitude!
Gloria	5B	Gloria, your enthusiasm and friendly spirit light up our school community every day. You consistently try your best, and your efforts truly shine in everything you do. Your kindness and compassion are evident in the way you ensure others feel comfortable and cared for, always going out of your way to help those in need. Your positive influence and ability to show deep understanding and empathy towards others makes you a true role model for your peers. Keep up the amazing work!

Congratulations everyone, what a fabulous achievement! Included is a photograph of the children with Anne Wilson from the Kiwanis Club of Waverley.

Principal Learning Awards

As Principal, I also believe that it is very important that I acknowledge the wonderful learning the students complete and as a result I have a term award for each class.

Congratulations to the following students who received The Principal’s Learning Award for Term Three:

Class	NAME	REASON
Prep A	Sajunthan	Sajunthan, you are an excellent learner and member of our learning community because you are dedicated, persistent and generous. You are a wonderful leaner because you are curious, and seek out challenges. Stay amazing! You have gratitude and respect for the opportunities you receive and take full advantage of them. Well done on your growth this term!
Prep B	Jiyaan	For being a friendly and considerate member of Prep B. Jiyaan is always respectful and responsible to other members in the school. He strives to complete set learning tasks at his personal best. Jiyaan has shown great growth in all areas of the curriculum and always listens attentively to instructions to ensure he sets himself up for success. He is a good friend to all of his peers and ensures he always help out a friend in need. Well done Jiyaan on all of your amazing achievements, we are all so proud to watch you learn, grow and achieve. Keep up the great work superstar!
Prep C	Bavitran	In recognition of your outstanding behaviour, strong values, and your friendly presence within our classroom and school community. You have consistently demonstrated the School values of; Respect, Integrity, Initiative and Global Empathy. Bavitran consistently challenges himself and shows an active involvement in school activities. He inspires his peers and contributes to a positive and inclusive environment. Bavitran consistently demonstrates a commitment to personal growth and learning, both in and out of the classroom. He is a student who not only seeks out challenges to push his academic and personal boundaries but he also approaches every task with a genuine curiosity and desire to understand more deeply. Bavitran’s dedication to learning is evident in his willingness to go above and beyond, engaging in group and class discussions, and exploring new areas of interest on his own initiative. In addition to his academic pursuits Bavitran shares his geniune kindness with his class peers and within the School community. He consistently shows Empathy and Respect for others, going out of his way to always support and include his class peers. Bavitran follows both class and school expectations at all times. Congratulations Bavitran, may your learning continue on the pathway to success!
Prep D	Rana	Rana is a kind and considerate student who consistently shows respect for both his peers and teachers. His disposition and manners always impress us. His friendly and positive attitude helps create a fun and sweet atmosphere that is absolutely valuable. It's extremely obvious that Rana is enthusiastic about learning. He shows incredible motivation in learning and his passion to read, write and learn is infectious. Rana always tries to put his best effort into tasks and tackles issues and challenges with a positive, can-do attitude. Well done, Rana. You have been an inspiration in Prep D.
1A	Sadev	Congratulations, Sadev, for showing mature emotional literacy in the classroom. Your calm presence and ability to think deeply allows you to assess each situation with care and respond with kindness and proactiveness. You are clear in your communication of your feelings and how to solve situations. You ensure you are direct and gentle in your communication to support the people around you, while maintaining your respected boundaries. You greet everyone with a smile each day, which is infectious to those around you. Keep up the fantastic efforts this year, Sadev.
1B	Suhansa	Much has to be admired for the hard work Suhansa has displayed throughout term 3. She has consistently treated her peers with kindness and respect. Suhansa's actions speak louder than words as her positivity and hard-working attitude is reflected in everything she does. Well done Suhansa, I look forward to seeing your achievements as we move into Term 4!
1C	Gia	Congratulations, Gia, on an outstanding term of academic achievement! It has been a joy and privilege to watch you flourish in all curriculum areas this term. Your resilience, perseverance, and positive attitude are a credit to your dedication to your learning journey and personal character. You consistently bring laughter and joy to our classroom every day, and your vibrant energy lifts everyone's spirits. During our Inquiry unit on Special Places, you enthusiastically challenged your thinking, which drove you to take on learning challenges and deepen your understanding. Your active engagement and curiosity during our excursion led you to discover and appreciate Aboriginal Australians' perspectives and cultural practices. Well done, Gia! Keep up the exceptional work!
1D	Neili	Your amazing commitment to following the school expectations, being kind to everyone around you, and always being ready to help your classmates. It is fantastic to see the way you interacted with your peers and put a smile on their faces. Your positive attitude and effort to make our school a better place is truly appreciated. Congratulations, Neili, and keep up the great work!’
1E	Kezia	Kezia is a bright and bubbly personality in the classroom and always brings a big smile and growth mindset with her. She works diligently at her learning, asking questions when she is unsure and is always willing to support her classmates when they need help. Kezia demonstrates respect towards the classroom, her peers and her teacher by always being mindful of her words and actions. She applies this attitude towards her time in the playground too and ensures everyone has someone to play with.
2A	Charles	Congratulations Charles Aruran! Charles consistently demonstrates the school value of ‘Initiative’, by enthusiastically displaying helpfulness and a willingness to assist within the classroom. This term he further applied initiative, by adopting student voice and leading a whole class peer evaluation of his poetry. Charles is commended for his dedication to persist with his efforts to improve his handwriting. Pleasingly he relishes in his success, showing great pride in his developed skill. Charles is courteous and polite and shows the utmost respect to all his teachers and fellow learners and understands that this value is important for all. He additionally is a wonderful team player, demonstrating great collaborative skills when learning with others. Charles, you are a fantastic role model, and we are so proud you are a member of 2A and GWPS!
2B	Jaydan	Congratulations, Jaydan! The determination to conquer new learning challenges is both inspiring and admirable. Not only are you driven to solve challenges and expand your understanding, but you also motivate and inspire your peers to succeed as well. Your commitment to helping clarify your understanding of new concepts is commendable and ensures that you get the most out of each learning experience. Your exceptional dedication and enthusiasm have made a significant impact on our classroom community. Furthermore, you’re ability to articulate your desire for further challenge is inspirational and positions you for continued success throughout your learning journey! Jaydan, the quiet determination and attention to detail allows you to produce work that is consistently of a high standard, making you a role model for your peers. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! You should be so proud of all your achievements this year!
2C	Aston	Aston is a bright and bubbly addition to the class, always demonstrating the school value of ‘Respect' by greeting his peers and teacher every morning. He always tries his best in every situation, ensuring his presentation of work is neat and tidy. During class discussions, Aston will raise his hand enthusiastically to offer his thoughts and encourage his peers when they achieve success. He is willing to give new tasks a go and demonstrates an I-can-do-it attitude when clarifying understanding in learning. Aston is confident and calm when facing challenges, demonstrating maturity and self-regulation. During this term, he has also supported his peers in many learning and social scenarios. As a team player, Aston exemplifies the school value of 'Global Empathy' through taking turns. You have made fantastic progress this term, you should be proud of yourself! We are so lucky to have you as a member of 2C and GWPS. Congratulations!
2D	Harin	Congratulations to Harin for achieving a Principal's Learning Award for 2D. Harin your attention to detail with all of your learning is outstanding. It has been wonderful to observe your friendly manner with all students and also willingness to help anyone in need with their learning. You quickly grasp new concepts and take great pride in presenting your learning in a neat and detailed manner. Harin you are responsible and can be trusted to take on additional leadership roles around the classroom. Keep up the amazing learning, 2D are proud of you!
2E	Shenelle	Shenelle has consistently demonstrated the school value of ‘Initiative’, by taking charge of her learning, even when she may find it challenging. She has proven to be readily available to support her peers without being asked. Shenelle always tries her best throughout all the learning areas and continuously makes sure her work is neatly presented. During class discussions, Shenelle eagerly contributes to offer her ideas and is well known to encourage her peers throughout their successes. She is always willing to help, whether it be reminding others about adhering to school expectations or demonstrating ‘Integrity’ by letting the teacher know if something is not quite right. Shenelle is willing to give new tasks a go and when facing challenges demonstrates sound maturity and self-regulation. Additionally, Shenelle shows great kindness and respect to her teachers and peers by greeting them happily whenever she sees them around the school. Shenelle you should be proud of the way you present yourself and treat those around you. We are very lucky to have you as a member of 2E and GWPS. Congratulations on a fantastic term at school!
3A	Naveen	3A’s Principal Learning Award for Term 3 goes to Naveen. Throughout the term, Naveen has consistently demonstrated all our school values. He’s always the first to step up, do the right thing, and give his best in all his work. Naveen is kind to everyone and always makes an effort to include others.
3B	Kenuda	Congratulations, Kenu, on receiving the Principal’s Learning Award! Your kind, positive attitude and hard work inspire everyone around you. Your dedication to doing your best and striving for success is truly impressive. It has been great to see your progress at Glen Waverley Primary School, where you always give your best effort in your learning. Your enthusiasm for learning is wonderful to see. Your kindness and ability to handle challenges make you a special part of our class. Kenu you continuously display empathy by showing support and care to those around you. With your determination and passion, you’re sure to achieve amazing things. Keep up the excellent work, Kenu! I’m very proud of you. Congratulations again!
3C	Shabad	Congratulations on receiving the Principal’s Learning Award, Shabad! You have transitioned into Glen Waverley Primary School with ease, and you consistently demonstrate the GWPS School Values of Initiative, Respect, Getting Along and Integrity. You are such a kind, positive and enthusiastic member of 3C. I am really impressed by your approach to life and learning and it has been pleasing to see your confidence blossom as the year has progressed. Thank you for always applying your personal best to everything that you do and having a smile on your face at all times. I hope that you feel a sense of pride for all that you have achieved this term and year. You are such a positive role model for your peers – I am very proud of you! Keep up the wonderful work, Shabad! Congratulations.
3D	Bhoomin	I am so excited to give you this award because you’ve been doing an awesome job at never giving up and always challenging your brain. Your growth mindset is really inspiring! You tackle every new challenge with a great attitude and keep pushing yourself to learn more. You’re also a fantastic friend. You include your classmates in your play, share your toys, and make sure everyone feels welcome. Your kindness and generosity make our classroom a happier place. Keep up the amazing learning, Bhoomin! Your willingness to learn new things and friendly nature are making a big difference. Congratulations and keep shining!
3E	Hansen	Hansen has been consistently demonstrating all the school values this year. He always showed Whole-Body listening in the mini lessons, clarified the questions to complete tasks and to sought feedback and feedforward. Hansen has also displayed great empathy at school, including helping his friends and greeting his teachers with smiles and courtesy. He showed global empathy and integrity by having an inclusive mindset when collaborating with others and being truthful in his communications. Hansen, you have showed us a high standard of behaviours in Glen Waverley Primary School. Well done and keep it up!
4A	Sanaaya	Congratulations, Sanaaya, on your outstanding efforts in Term 3, 2024. You have embodied the qualities of an exceptional learner, tackling every task with an open mind and embracing the Learning Pit at every chance. Your skill in listening to others’ ideas and connecting with each thought is commendable. It’s been wonderful to witness your growing confidence in your ability to learn and apply knowledge. Every time you share your insights, those around you gain from it. Sanaaya, you have embraced our School Focus on ‘Respectful Relationships,’ ensuring that everyone around you feels heard and valued, fostering a sense of belonging and respect in the classroom. Your interactions with classmates and staff are a testament to your empathetic nature, as you take the time to understand and connect with everyone. Keep demonstrating these incredible qualities, Sanaaya; you truly deserve this Principal’s Learning Award for Term 3!
4B	Lesara	Lesara, the students and teacher of 4B proudly recognise you for your outstanding dedication to learning and exemplary behavior in the classroom. Over the past three terms, you have consistently demonstrated active engagement, curiosity and enthusiasm, setting a remarkable standard for your peers. Lesara, your commitment to academic excellence and positive attitude have not only enriched your own educational experience but also inspired those around you. Congratulations, on being a shining example of what it means to be a committed and thoughtful learner.
4C	Javis	Congratulations on receiving the Principal's Learning Award, Javis! Thank you for wholeheartedly showcasing our School Values and for consistently demonstrating to your peers what it means to be a respectful learner who shows initiative and integrity during all parts of the school day. Your dedication to your learning in all subject areas and ability to think outside of the box to extend your knowledge should be commended. You bring such a happy, kind and fun presence to the classroom and your peers and teachers relish having you around. I hope you are incredibly proud of the person and learner that you are - I am so eager to observe the success that you will have in your future. Congratulations Javis!
4D	Aadyah	Congratulations to Aadyah on receiving the Principal Learning Award for Term 3! Your boundless curiosity and love for a challenge have made you a standout student in our class. Your constant questions show a deep desire to understand the world around you, and I admire how you tackle every new challenge with enthusiasm and determination. It has been wonderful to see your self-confidence grow as you embrace each learning opportunity with courage and perseverance. Your writing, especially in poetry, is truly masterful. The way you express your thoughts and emotions through carefully chosen words and vivid imagery is nothing short of impressive. Your work not only showcases your creativity but also invites others to see the world through your unique perspective. Keep up the fantastic work, Aadyah! I am excited to see how you will continue to shine in 2024.
4E	Vidit	The Term 3 Principal's Learning Award is proudly awarded to Vidit for his outstanding contributions to our school community. Vidit's kindness and helpful nature have been a shining example to his peers. He consistently goes out of his way to support others, whether through a thoughtful word or a generous act, making our classroom a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. Vidit’s academic perseverance is equally commendable. He approaches his studies with a positive attitude and an unwavering commitment to doing his best. Even when faced with challenging tasks, Vidit shows resilience and determination, always seeking to understand and improve. His hard work and dedication are evident in his academic achievements, and he is a role model for his classmates. As a responsible member of our class, Vidit demonstrates integrity in all that he does. He can always be relied upon to make thoughtful decisions and to act with honesty and fairness. Vidit’s strong moral compass and his ability to lead by example have earned him the respect and admiration of both his peers and teachers. Congratulations, Vidit, you should be extremely proud of yourself!
4F	Kevon	Congratulations to Kevon on receiving the Principal Learning Award for Term 3! Your dedication to learning and your eagerness to explore topics deeply show your passion and commitment to success. I have been consistently impressed by your focus during lessons, your whole-body listening, and your valuable contributions to class discussions. Kevon, your excellent organization in the classroom sets a positive example for everyone. Your readiness is clear through your attentive listening and being prepared with everything you need for the day. I am especially impressed with your positive attitude towards learning this term. Your eagerness to learn shines when you actively seek feedback and look for ways to improve after each task, and when you challenge yourself with extension learning. Keep up the amazing work, Kevon!
5A	Duke	Duke has been an outstanding and helpful member of 5A. He is kind towards his peers and always willing to lend a helping hand to whoever in need. Duke consistently demonstrates our school values and the Year 5 expectations, setting the standard for his classmates to follow. Academically, Duke puts in his best effort into everything his does, actively participates in class discussions and learning opportunities. He also exhibits positive and open mindsets towards his learning and welcomes feedback to further improve himself. Congratulation Duke, a well-deserved recipient for this award. Keep up the great ethic and effort!
5B	Janiru	Janiru, your commitment to fairness and doing what’s right is truly admirable. You always strive to ensure that everyone is treated fairly, and your sense of justice is a great example to others. Your hard work in class, combined with your passion for learning and growing, shows your dedication to becoming the best version of yourself. Keep up the fantastic work and continue to inspire those around you!
5C	Kimaya	This Principal’s Learning Award is presented to Kimaya Perera in recognition of her positive qualities of commitment and application to learning. Kimaya consistently demonstrates strong organisational skills, showcasing her ability to manage tasks efficiently. Her genuine interest in her studies, coupled with her enthusiasm for knowledge, inspires those around her. In addition, Kimaya's encouragement and kindness towards her peers create a supportive and positive learning environment. She consistently fosters collaboration and friendship within the classroom. Congratulations, Kimaya, on your achievements and contributions! Keep shining brightly and inspiring others with your kindness and commitment to learning.
5D	Tharun	Tharun, you are a caring, considerate member of 5D. You consistently show our class values, as well as kindness and thoughtfulness towards others. Tharun you have also shown greater independence and confidence when completing learning tasks and when sharing your learning with the class. Congratulations on your achievement, keep up the excellent learning Tharun.
5E	Linh	Congratulations, Linh, on receiving the Principal Learning Award, for your active engagement in class discussions that inspired our class, for your dedication to tackling diverse writing tasks with enthusiasm and a willingness to challenge yourself, for your kindness and generosity in interacting with others. Your hard work and positive attitude have made a significant impact, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of your achievements.
6A	Archie	Congratulations to 6A’s recipient of the Principal’s Learning Award, Archie. Archie embraces all learning opportunities and uses a growth mindset to tackle challenges that come her way. She has a calm and friendly demeanour, and maintains positive relationships with her peers. Archie always has a smile on her face, uses the most beautiful manners and is an asset to our classroom. Congratulations on a fabulous year thus far, Archie. I wish you all the best for your final term of primary school.
6B	Sana	Sana is the recipient of 6B’s Principal’s Learning Award for Term 3 2024. Sana brings a calm and peaceful presence to the classroom and approaches her day with an immense amount of positive energy. Throughout the year, she has proven herself to be focused and highly motivated in all areas of her learning, with a particularly strong attention to detail. Furthermore, Sana is a confident speaker who actively engages in classroom discussions, contributing interesting thoughts and asking thoughtful questions. I salute and congratulate you on all your successes this year!
6C	Veerav	Congratulations Veerav on a fabulous term of learning and a wonderful start to your GWPS journey! You are an excellent role model to your peers by consistently demonstrating the School Values both inside and outside the classroom. You are respectful in all your interactions with both other students and teachers and demonstrate integrity by always staying focused on your learning. You continually strive to do your best at all you do, seeking additional challenge, and listening to feedforward for improvement. Keep up the excellent attitude!
6D	Oskarina	Oskarina has demonstrated incredible resilience in joining our school, quickly making new friends and becoming an essential member of Year 6D. Her creative writing is exceptional, with stories that are not only imaginative but also deeply engaging, showing a true talent for storytelling. In mathematics, Oskarina has gone above and beyond in extending her skills in probability and chance, mastering concepts that are challenging. Throughout all her endeavours, Oskarina consistently upholds our school’s values of integrity, acting with honesty and fairness, making her a role model for others. Congratulations, Oskarina, on your outstanding achievements!
6E	Yuvi	Congratulations to Yuvi for being the Term 3 recipient of the Principal’s Learning Award for 6E. You have shown determination in your learning and consistently make a strong effort to improve your skills and knowledge. You are a kind member of our class, and you show empathy for those around you by including others and bringing a positive attitude. You demonstrate resilience when facing challenges and take responsibility for your actions. Well done, Yuvi!
6F	Ashirya	Ashirya has consistently demonstrated an excellent attitude throughout Term 3. She approaches all learning with a remarkable level of enthusiasm, highlighting her passion for learning. Ashirya’s hard work, coupled with her ability to apply herself fully, has not only led to incredible success but has also set a wonderful example for her peers. Her positive attitude and willingness to support others, enriches our classroom community and leaves a meaningful impact on others. Ashirya’s dedication and kind-hearted nature make her a deserving recipient of the Principal's Learning Award.

Principal Awards

Congratulations to the following students for receiving a Principal’s Award recently:

Prep A

Jamie and Sohana for learning all about words that end in ‘ay’

Prep C

⁃ Helios, Anastasia, Austin, Jaynmae, Kiyan, Milaan, Aura, Charlotte and Pavi for writing excellent recounts about their school holidays

⁃ Helios for donating a book for our school library that is all about Hong Kong

⁃ Jaynmae and Charlotte for learning about data sets using two groups

⁃ Johanna, Sophia and Bavi for learning how to use the tricky word, ‘want’

⁃ Yahath for being a really responsible member of our school community, by ensuring our school grounds are neat and tidy. Recently he wrote, “This is very bad. We should ask everyone to be responsible to keep our school clean.”

⁃ Jamie for creating his very own Zones of Regulation chart to help him throughout the day

⁃ Minza for being selected in the Under 12’s, Representative Cricket Team with her sister Krisha. This is a phenomenon achievement as Minza is only 8 years old!

⁃ Zaiden and Prayag for finding, researching and listing words containing the letters ‘UA’

⁃ Sophie for writing lots of adjectives that describe what a soccer player needs to be successful

⁃ Priyanka and Shanaya for being wonderful and supportive friends and members of our school community

⁃ Vidhi for creating a level poster for my office

⁃ Reyansh and Evelyn for writing a detailed procedural text that explained how to play the game, Tag

-Saum and Kisal for creating very informative Keynotes about tsunamis including how they are formed, the height of the tallest tsunami recorded and the fact that they are in the top 10 of natural disasters

⁃ Helitha for completing his all of the swimming levels and is now in the swimming squad and for competing in an upcoming drums competition on the 19th October. We look forward to hearing how Helitha goes!

⁃ Tevin for being a wonderful friend

⁃ Boyan for making outstanding progress with his writing skills as featured in the Kids Corner section of this newsletter

⁃ Abiru for being a very supportive friend

⁃ Alisha A for visiting our sister school in New Zealand during the recent holidays and taking some beautiful photos outside the school

⁃ Krisha for being selected in the Under 12’s, Representative Cricket Team with her sister Minza. Which is a phenomenal achievement as Krisha is only 10 years old.

Wishing everyone a safe fortnight.

Frank Catalano

Principal