From the Principal
A huge congratulations to all our parents, staff, students, and kinder children who participated in our annual Melbourne Cup Fashions on the Field! It was a vibrant and joyful celebration, and I was delighted to see so many participants showcasing their style and imagination. Congratulations to all the winners who received medals for their outstanding creativity, enthusiasm, and participation — what a fantastic effort from everyone involved! Our 2025 Student Wellbeing Day was also celebrated in conjunction with this event. Although Kaboom Sports was postponed due to the weather, students and staff continued to celebrate wellbeing across both days with the focus on connection, resilience, and positivity. Please see Mrs Gathercole’s report for a full overview of the activities and highlights.
Remembrance Day
We sincerely thank our Student Leaders for leading the acknowledgment of Remembrance Day and guiding the school in observing a respectful minute of silence on the 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour. Their maturity and leadership were outstanding as they helped everyone reflect on the courage and sacrifice of those who have served in war. This annual act of remembrance is an important opportunity for our students to learn about gratitude, peace, and the value of community.
Important Reminders:
Curriculum Day – Friday 14th November
A reminder that tomorrow, Friday 14th November, is a Curriculum Day. This is a student-free day, as teachers will be undertaking assessment and reporting tasks in preparation for the end of the school year. Please note that Out of School Hours Care will not operate on this day.
Swimming Program Requirements
Parents and carers who wish to attend swimming lessons are reminded that a current Working With Children Check (WWCC) is required for entry. Please be aware that no photos or video recordings are permitted at the pool to ensure the privacy and safety of all students. Pool staff have advised that entry will be refused if these requirements are not met. We appreciate your cooperation in supporting our school’s child safety policies.
2026 Foundation Transition Program
Our 2026 Foundation students began their first transition session on Wednesday 11th November, and it was wonderful to see their enthusiasm and excitement! There are two sessions remaining — on Wednesday 19th November and Wednesday 26th November, from 9:30am to 10:30am in the Foundation Learning Space. We also invite all parents and carers of incoming Foundation students to attend a Foundation Information Session on Wednesday 3rd December from 5:00pm – 6:00pm. This session will provide valuable information to help families prepare for a smooth and successful start to school life.
Student Voice Council Raffle
The Student Voice Council is holding a fundraising raffle to support State Schools’ Relief, an organisation that provides essential items such as school uniforms, shoes, and glasses to students in need. Each family is encouraged to sell or purchase 10 raffle tickets ($1 each, total $10 per family). Please return ticket stubs and money in the envelope provided by Friday 5th December. The raffle will be drawn at our School Concert on Friday 12th December. Thank you for supporting this important cause that helps our students and families.
Exciting News – Athol Road on TV!
We are thrilled to announce that ABC/Gardening Australia will be filming at Athol Road Primary School to showcase our Environmental Education Program! The segment will highlight our outstanding work in sustainability — featuring our vegetable garden, urban farm, and innovative environmental practices. Mr Hunter, our Environmental Education Student Leaders, and the students of 5/6D will take part in the filming, which will take place on Thursday 20th November. The episode is expected to air early next year, and we will share the broadcast date once it is confirmed. This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our students’ leadership and the school’s commitment to environmental education.
Aussie of the Month
Congratulations to the November Aussies of the Month:
Angel R in Year 1 and Dara in Year 4 .
Well done Angel and Oscar!!
The Key Values of Aussie of the Month are:
Fair go: not just how we apply ourselves but also in providing opportunity for all
Mateship: a generosity of spirit and compassion for those in need
Respect: of self, of others, our community, and the environment
Inclusion: acceptance and respect of difference
Carmel Nigro
Principal