A note from Mr Jackson

2025 Class Structures

Current class structures at Rosanna Primary School consist of a preference for straight classes in Prep and then a preference for a composite setting from Year 1 through to year 6. This structure has supported connectedness of students to learning, differentiation, the development of flexible harmonious class groups, collaborative planning and evaluation supports for staff and a focus on consistent teaching practice.

Recognising the changing nature of student presentation after COIVD, an eagerness to ensure student learning of foundational concepts, and with increasing numbers, we will move to a different model in 2025. This will see a preference for straight classes in not only prep but also in Year 1 and Year 2. Classes from Years 3 to 6 will continue to benefit from a composite setting. While I would love to promise that such a decision would result in clean straight classes from foundation through to Year 2, this is more a product of year level sizes. It may mean, while we have a year one class, there may be a need for a 1/2 class or even a Prep/1 class dependent on the numbers of students in each cohort. 

Our goal will continue to focus on providing learning experiences that respond to the needs of each student. Please don’t hesitate to speak with me if you have any questions. Thanks to those who have shared in this discussion at School Council, through conversations and survey contributions.

IDAHOBIT Day 17 May 2024

Today many workplaces and community groups marked International Day Against LGBTIQA+ Discrimination (IDAHOBIT). The day is a practical reminder of values such as respect, safety and inclusion for all students, staff and members of our school community. 

Staff highlighted the day with students in classrooms.  At Rosanna Primary School, teaching students about acceptance, respect and inclusivity is central to our practice. By doing so, we are not only creating a safe and supportive environment now, but also preparing students to thrive in a global society.

School Working Bee (This Saturday 18 May)

We have sharpened our projects for the Working Bee this Saturday between 9:00am and 12noon. We are eager to prune some overhanging branches along pathways, clean our bins (while we do avoid using plastic bags they do get a bit messy), spray paint some numbers on them to support student placement of the bins, repair some of the stone retaining wall in the lower playground, repair some timber edging that has deteriorated, as well as the usual drain clearance. While we might not get all of these tasks completed, we are hopeful a number of hands can support us to tackle some. 

Come for an hour or all morning, your contribution is always gratefully received. Make sure you enjoy a sausage or two at noon! Bring some gloves, sturdy shoes and sign in at the staff room.

Mother’s and Special Others’ Day Celebrations

Last week started with a stretch on the synthetic turf with Yoga. Thanks to all carers who joined in this wonderful start to the week. It was great to see mums, dads and carers stretch together and breathe in deeply! A peaceful and focussed start to the week.

Students were supported by parents during the annual Mother’s and special others’ Day stall on Friday. I am sure there were many smiles and laughter at the delivery of the items that were purchased. Thanks to FORPS for their impressive organisation of the event and ensuring all had the opportunity to participate.

4/5/6 Speak to Community Representatives

Students in the 4/5/6 Learning area have been exploring local, state and federal governments. On Wednesday, the mayor for Banyule, Clr Tom Melican, met with students to share a little of his story of local council action as well as answer the thoughtful and provoking questions of students. Today, students met with Anthony Carbines, State Member for Ivanhoe, Minister for Police, Minister for Crime Prevention and Minister for Racing. It has been great to see the authentic questions being posed and connections to students’ experienced that has raised an eyebrow on some of our guests. In this moment, the content of the curriculum connects with voice and agency and delivers an engaged student cohort.

2025 Prep Enrolments

A range of tours for families continue to be available for those considering enrolment in 2025. If you are aware of family and friends who are considering enrolment then please speak with Ally at the office. This year, children who are considering enrolling in the 2025 Prep year are invited to join a special celebration as part of our National Simultaneous Storytime.  Ring the office if you would like your 2025 Prep student to participate.

Education Week Next Week

Rosanna Primary are marking the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics with several specific events ..

Tuesday 21 May 

Career Dress Up Day - celebrate the many different careers that celebrate mathematics, engineering and/or science.

Wednesday 22 May - 12noon

National Simultaneous Storytime   - Every year a picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator, is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, pre-schools, childcare centres, family homes, bookshops and many other places around the country. Now in its 24th successful year, it is a colourful, vibrant, fun event that aims to promote the value of reading and literacy, using an Australian children's book that explores age-appropriate themes, and addresses key learning areas of the National Curriculum for Foundation to Year 6.

Thursday 23 May 

Open Classrooms – carers and parents are invited join classes and participate in a range of interactive science/maths experiences and games from 2:40pm. This will give students a time to prepare and welcome you after lunch. This will conclude at 3:20pm when students will begin their pack up routines for the day. All are welcome to join us. 

Staying Active

This morning a number of staff students and parents walked to school together. It was a great chance to encourage the habit of walking and to help students feel great now, and lead healthy, active lives into the future. Being active every day is great for all students. It helps our mental wellbeing, mood and self-esteem, confidence and life skills, connection with family, friends and neighbours.  

Moving commutes from the roads to the footpath also helps by making school streets safer, reducing traffic congestion and contributing to a healthier environment.

Thanks to all who foster such attitudes in our school and community on a day to day basis.

Sorry Day (Thursday 23 May)

Sorry Day is a day of remembrance and commemoration held to highlight the impact of past policies of forcible removal on the Stolen Generations, their families, and communities. While 26 May marks National Sorry Day, next Thursday 23 May, Rosanna Primary student leaders will join with other schools at Malahang Reserve in Heidelberg West, to mark the day with Banyule Council and other local schools. Our school flags will be flown at half mast on this day as a sign of respect.