From the Principal 

The Lorraine Francis Community Award

The Lorraine Francis Community Award is an annual honor presented to students in the Bentleigh electorate who exemplify strong leadership, community involvement, and serve as positive role models. Named after the late Lorraine Francis, former principal of St Peter’s Primary School in East Bentleigh, the award reflects her dedication to instilling the value of service in her students. 

Last Friday, at a school assembly, Member for Bentleigh, Nick Staikos MP, presented this prestigious award to Lachlan R in Year 6. Lachlan was recognised for his positive and caring character, his efforts in creating a safe and happy environment for others, and his significant academic progress. His perseverance through hardship has made him an inspiration to the entire school community.

Le Page Primary School focuses on developing leadership skills and fostering a supportive community among its students. The school takes pride in Lachlan's achievements and the recognition he has received through the Lorraine Francis Community Award.

This award not only honors Lachlan's individual accomplishments but also serves as a testament to the school's commitment to nurturing leaders who positively impact their communities.

2025 Student Captains

The 2025 Student School Captains Election was an exciting event, showcasing the dedication and persuasive skills of the Year 5 students. The upcoming leaders will have a great foundation for success by learning from their 2024 counterparts over the remaining weeks of Term 4. Congratulations to all participants and the newly elected leaders.

School: Daniel & Marie

Vice: Sai & Maddie

Music: Luke & Monique

Art: Niamh & Seychelle

House: Marine, Lara & Fletcher & Kaira 

Sport: Lenny, Jaxon 

Environment: Arjun, Ethan

Library: Riley, Noah H

Lighthouse: Kai, Maya

Auslan Celebration

The visit from the Auslan teachers was a fantastic opportunity for the students to deepen their appreciation and skills in sign language. It's wonderful to see Auslan being integrated into assemblies and special events, reflecting a strong commitment to inclusion and communication. Karen Dragatsikas leadership in the 2024 program has been commendable.

Parent Information Session

Le Page Primary School is hosting an Information Session for parents of Foundation students enrolling for the 2025 school year. This session is scheduled for Monday, December 2, from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. 

During this session, parents will receive essential information about the school's operations and processes, including:

• Daily routines and timetables
• Subjects offered
• Uniform requirements
• School charges
• Activities and programs

Additionally, this event provides an opportunity to meet the Foundation Team and ask any questions you may have. Representatives from TeamKids will present their before and after school care services for families. Members from the Social and Fundraising Team will also share how parents can get involved in activities that engage and support the students.

This session is a valuable opportunity for all new parents to gain insights into the school's environment and prepare for the upcoming school year.

Picnic Celebration Wednesday November 4th 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm

The school community is gearing up for an exciting end-of-year Picnic Celebration next Wednesday. Join us for a wonderful evening filled with student performances, delicious food, and a festive atmosphere. Performances by the choir, band, and all cohort groups will begin at 6:30 pm and wrap up at 7:30 pm. Don’t forget to bring your blankets and folding chairs for a memorable evening on the school oval!

Drama and Public Speaking Course

The Drama & Public Speaking Classes sound like a fantastic opportunity for students to build confidence and communication skills in 2025! Families are encouraged to register by December 6th, 2024, and can find more details in the Compass p or by visiting the office for a hard copy.

Sharpen the Saw

Sharpen the Saw is the seventh habit in Stephen Covey's book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. This habit emphasises the importance of maintaining and enhancing your personal well-being to achieve sustainable effectiveness. The metaphor of "sharpening the saw" suggests taking time for self-renewal to avoid burnout and maximise productivity.

Overview

The Saw Metaphor:

• Imagine cutting wood with a dull saw. It takes more effort, time, and energy compared to a sharp saw.
• To "sharpen the saw" means regularly pausing to rejuvenate and improve your effectiveness in all areas of life.

Four Dimensions of Renewal: Covey outlines four key areas for self-renewal, which should be balanced for holistic growth:

Physical:

• Focuses on caring for your body through exercise, proper nutrition, sleep, and stress management.
• Benefits: Increased energy, stamina, and resilience.

Mental:

• Involves continuous learning, critical thinking, and nurturing creativity.
• Activities: Reading, journaling, solving puzzles, or acquiring new skills.
• Benefits: Enhanced focus, problem-solving, and adaptability.

Social/Emotional:

• Encourages nurturing relationships and developing emotional intelligence.
• Activities: Building trust, practicing empathy, and participating in meaningful interactions.
• Benefits: Strengthened connections, emotional balance, and a sense of belonging.

Spiritual:

• Focuses on values, purpose, and personal growth.
• Activities: Meditation, prayer, reflecting on core beliefs, or engaging in nature.
• Benefits: Inner peace, clarity, and a sense of fulfillment.

Integration:

• Renewal in one area often influences others. For example, improving physical health can boost mental clarity and emotional well-being.
• Consistently investing in all four dimensions helps achieve long-term balance and effectiveness.

"Sharpening the Saw" is about self-leadership and ensuring you're at your best to handle life's challenges effectively. It reminds us that personal growth is a continuous process and that maintaining balance in all dimensions is key to long-term success and happiness.

Thought for the Week

One of the most inspirational quotes about hope is from Desmond Tutu:

"Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness."

This quote reminds us that even in the most challenging times, hope provides the strength to keep moving forward, knowing that brighter days are ahead.

Have a great weekend everyone. 

George Danson