As we wrap up our first term of 2025, I want to say a big thank you to our staff and school community for making it such a great start to the year. Classrooms have been settled, and it’s been wonderful to see students thriving in a calm and focused learning environment.

We are proud to celebrate the incredible learning achievements of our students this term—gosh, they have been busy! Throughout the term, they have demonstrated curiosity, persistence, and enthusiasm, making great strides across a range of areas.

Literacy and numeracy remain core priorities in our learning programs. This term, teachers have been supporting students in building phonics and reading skills to strengthen their confidence as independent readers. You may have noticed teachers expanding vocabulary through rich discussions during reading and writing activities. For example, if your child is in Year 1 or 2, you might have heard them try to use the word apoplectic in a sentence!

In numeracy, students have been engaging in hands-on maths activities that encourage problem-solving, critical thinking, and the real-world application of mathematical concepts. These foundational skills not only support their mathematical understanding but also enhance their ability to think critically across all areas of learning.

Other highlights this term have included exploring Australian history, where students have investigated past events, considered their impact on the world we live in today, and examined them from different perspectives.

It has been wonderful to see students embrace new challenges, collaborate with their peers, and take pride in their progress. We look forward to seeing their continued growth throughout the year!

Landscaping and Playground Construction

It has finally happened—the landscaping works have started here at Northcote PS! While it has been a long time coming, Jonathon and the team certainly haven’t wasted any time getting started.

Demolition and site preparation are well underway, moving at an impressive speed. The old playground equipment is already gone, and the bark and soil are being removed as we speak. In the last day or two, you may have noticed that the footings have started to be dug for the new edging. I don’t want to give too much away, but when you return from the break, you’ll see a big milestone has been achieved.

Check out the photos of some of the progress below, and be sure to pay attention to the last one—those are the large timber supports from the old playground. You might just see them reappear in a new location, with a new lease on life!

Don't forget, all student drop-offs and pick-ups must take place at either the Hawthorn Road or Henry Street gates. Parents will still be able to access the office via the main gate on Helen Street during the day.

Voting Site for the Federal Election – Saturday, 3rd of May

We are excited to share that Northcote Primary School has been contacted to be a voting site for the upcoming federal election. We are currently working out the details, but we may need some volunteers to help cook sausages or manage a bake stall on the day, many hands make light work!

More information will be provided early next term, and we encourage anyone interested in volunteering to get in touch.

Trivia

Get ready for a night of fun, friendly competition, and plenty of laughs—the annual Northcote PS Trivia Night is back! Mark your calendars for Saturday, the 3rd of May, at Welcome to Thornbury. The excitement kicks off with doors opening at 6pm, giving you plenty of time to settle in and get ready for the trivia action, which starts promptly at 7pm.

It’s the perfect chance to catch up with friends, test your general knowledge, and of course, support our school. We can’t wait to see you there!

Farewell to Kim from OSH

It is with mixed emotions that we announce Kim from OSH will be finishing up with us this Friday. Kim has been an integral part of the Northcote PS community for eight incredible years, and her dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to our students have made a lasting impact. Whether it was her warm smile, her ability to connect with every child, or her endless energy and care, Kim has consistently gone above and beyond in everything she does.

Kim will be deeply missed, and if you have the chance, please take a moment to personally reach out to her before the end of the week to express your thanks and admiration. She truly deserves all the recognition for the wonderful work she has done.

Thank you, Kim, for everything you've done for our school community—you will always be a cherished part of Northcote PS!

Athletics Day

The weather was perfect and the atmosphere was thrilling at our recent Athletics Carnival, with students bringing their best to every event. The Coburg Athletics track came alive as they competed with enthusiasm, supported their teammates with passion, and celebrated each other’s achievements in true Northcote PS team spirit.

Whether it was sprinting down the track, soaring through the long jump, or digging deeper in the discus, students approached each challenge with persistence and determination. The day was a true celebration of sportsmanship, as participants pushed their limits, supported one another, and demonstrated incredible perseverance and teamwork. Well done to all for their fantastic efforts!

But once again, let's not forget the invaluable support from our teachers, staff, and parent volunteers, whose efforts made this event possible. A particular shout-out to Dale for his work in coordinating another successful carnival.

First Aid Sessions for our students

A big congratulations to the students who recently completed their First Aid training! It’s fantastic to see them gaining such valuable skills that will help keep everyone safe. We’re proud to have these students equipped with the knowledge to respond confidently in emergencies. Well done to all involved!

A special thank you to Tessa for organising and coordinating the training—what a fantastic initiative. Your efforts are greatly appreciated!

Northcote PS Fete

A big thank you to everyone who joined us at the Northcote Primary School fete! It was a fantastic day filled with great entertainment, delicious food, and fun activities. Special thanks to our Fete Co-ordinators – Sam, Jo, and Lucy – and to all the volunteers who made it such a success.

The funds raised will go towards revitalising our kitchen garden into an engaging learning space for students. You may have already noticed that work has kicked off on this exciting project!

Oh, did I mention how much we raised? You won't believe it, but the final amount raised this year, after accounting for expenses, is a staggering $115,000! I’m absolutely floored by the generosity and support from our community! Thank-you.

Year 7 Enrolments – 2026

The enrolment process for students transitioning to Year 7 in 2026 will begin early next term. Families will receive a Placement Information Pack in the first week to guide them through the process. For more details, please refer to the attached factsheet.

Year-6-7-Factsheet.pdf

If you have any questions about the enrolment or transition process, please speak with your child’s classroom teacher or visit the office.

Prep Enrolments- 2026

Do you or someone you know have a child starting school in 2026? Starting in Term 2, we will be now accepting enrolments for next year. Weekly tours have already commenced, alternating between Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Additionally, prospective families are invited to join us on Wednesday 28th of May 2025 at 7pm for our Prep 2026 Information Evening. The evening will provide families with information about our school, our curriculum, our community and the 2026 enrolment process. Be sure to spread the word!

Take care,

Shaun.

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