From the School Leadership Team
Year 5 and 6 Camp
The Year 5 and 6 students recently had an unforgettable experience at their school camp in Victor Harbor, where they embraced the thrill of surfing and kayaking. This action-packed adventure allowed the students to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the coastal environment while building new skills and forming lasting memories.
The excitement was palpable as students took to the waves for their first-ever surfing lessons. Guided by experienced instructors, they quickly grasped the basics, with many students catching their first wave! The joy on their faces was undeniable as they realized the sense of accomplishment that comes with riding the surf.
In addition to surfing, the students enjoyed kayaking along the tranquil waters, navigating the coastline and taking in the stunning scenery. Whether paddling together or racing in small groups, the kayaking sessions were a fantastic opportunity for teamwork and developing confidence in the water.
Beyond the fun and adventure, outdoor education is a crucial part of the students’ development. It encourages physical activity, teamwork, resilience, and problem-solving skills. By participating in outdoor activities like surfing and kayaking, students not only enjoy the outdoors but also learn valuable life skills, such as communication, cooperation, and self-reliance. These experiences help foster independence and a love for the environment, inspiring students to take an active interest in their physical and mental well-being.
A huge thanks to our staff team and volunteers, and to Mr Napier, Mrs Fielke and Mrs Zadow for all of their organisation and leadership!
Volunteering in the School
We appreciate many families giving of their time and expertise to volunteer in the school, whether it be with our school canteen, P & F Events, school camps, GLOW Week or classroom assistance. A reminder to please ensure that your WWCC details are up to date, along with RAHN and VSC training. Further information on our volunteering requirements is available from our website.
TASS Parent Lounge
TASS Parent Lounge is our online parent portal. This is a great way to be able to check that your contact details and your child's medical details are up to date, as well as to be able to view the school calendar.
Please check your email for your login information - and you are most welcome to be in touch with us if you have any queries around the login process.
A few reminders
Please be reminded of some of our key events coming up:
Wednesday 26 February - Principal Tours
Friday 28 February - Ignite Water Evening
Tuesday 4 March - Middle of Term Breakfast - Shrove Tuesday Pancakes
Wednesday 5 March - Ash Wednesday
Monday 10 March - Adelaide Cup Public Holiday
Friday 14 March - Principal Tours
Friday 21 March - Sports Day
Monday 24 March - Harmony Day
Thursday 27 March - Principal Tours
Our full school calendar can also be viewed on the school website.
Will Wallace
Principal
The Power of belonging
These days wellbeing has become such a critical part of being in a school. Here it GGLPS we take the wellbeing of all our students seriously. Keep checking in with your kids each day and find out their ‘highs & lows’.
It is important we as a school, partner together with students, and families to ensure that all students feel safe and happy. Without a good wellbeing it is very hard to learn.
We look forward to working with you all over the year to support, grow and develop a positive wellbeing with your child.
Enjoy the latest read from Dr Justin Coulson.
Tim Kriewaldt
Deputy Principal
EVALUATION
As you may already know, we are currently preparing for a visit from IB (International Baccalaureate) personnel who will be undertaking an evaluation of how our school is doing what we do. This will involve a team of two, one of whom is online and one who is visiting face-to-face. The staff have been working to prepare for this visit and we are now seeking help from parents.
Our school will be evaluated against a group of standards and practices that outline how the PYP (Primary Years Programme) works, is taught and supported. There are 4 standards related to purpose, environment, culture and learning. We are seeking information and evidence related to these standards and the practices that the IB provide related to them. We are wanting to consult with our parent body and are aiming to do this through several surveys over this term. These surveys need to be completed this term in preparation for collating and uploading all of our information by May 1st. We will also be consulting students to receive feedback on our learning program. We value your opinion and hope that you can offer us information around what we do well and how we can improve.
The evaluating team will be visiting at the beginning of August and there will be opportunities for parents to meet with the evaluators at that time. The purpose of the visit is to continue to develop evidence to develop an understanding of our strengths and areas for improvement. The IB have an evaluation cycle of 5 years and will provide us with the ability to reflect on what we are doing. We aim for to be the best we can be for our students and families and understand that there are opportunities for continued growth.
Please keep an eye out for school emails asking for your opinion and response related to a variety of areas. We would love you to be involved and look forward to hearing from you.
Jayne Zadow Zadow
Director of PYP, Teaching and Learning