Principal's Message
Wawa, Wominjika.
Here at Old Orchard Primary School, we acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land we visit each day, the Wurrunguri and Woiwurrung people of the Kulin nation. We acknowledge and respect the elders and leaders past and present and the elders and leaders of all of the cultures and nationalities that are part of the Old Orchard Primary School community. We express our gratitude towards the orchards that were kept in place by the peoples on this land before us. We thank the traditional owners for sharing this beautiful land that we all love, and for keeping the land, sky, waterways and animals all in great condition for thousands of years, not only for themselves but for all the generations to come.
District Athletics
Our school was proud to be part of the District Athletics Sports last week, with students from Years 3–6 competing in a range of track and field events. It was wonderful to see our athletes giving their best effort, showing determination, teamwork, and great sportsmanship throughout the day. Many students achieved personal bests, and we were especially proud of the encouragement and support they showed for each other. Congratulations to all who represented our school so well – you should be very proud of your efforts!
Koonung Park Master Plan - Student Forum
Several of our students from Years 4, 5 & 6 had the opportunity this week to take part in a special Student Forum to share their ideas for the future of Koonung Park. The City of Whitehorse is developing a Master Plan to guide how the park will be used and enjoyed in years to come. This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to contribute their thoughts on playgrounds, sports areas, open spaces, and community facilities. By having a voice in the planning process, our students can help shape a park that reflects the needs of young people in our community.
Special Performance of Shrek Junior
This week many of our Year 5 and 6 students proudly performed Shrek Junior for the children from our local pre-schools and kindergartens, Pope Road pre-school, Katrina St pre-school and Nino Eaarly Learning. Drayton Hall was filled with laughter and excitement as the characters relived their recent performances at Karralyka with colourful costumes, catchy songs and plenty of fun. It was again wonderful to see our students showcase their acting, singing and dancing talents. We are so proud of the hard work, teamwork and creativity that went into making the performance such a success!
Maths Games Day
This week, several of our Year 5 and 6 students represented our school at the Mathematics Games Day held at Box Hill High School. The event brought together students from many schools to take part in challenging and fun problem-solving activities. Working in teams, our students used their maths skills, creativity, and cooperation to tackle a variety of problems. It was a fantastic opportunity to extend their thinking, collaborate with new friends, and experience the joy of mathematics beyond the classroom. We are very proud of their enthusiasm and effort throughout the day!
3 Way Parent–Teacher–Student Chats
Our 3 Way Parent–Teacher–Student Chats are being conducted across the final two weeks of term. These conversations are an important opportunity for students to take an active role in their learning by sharing their achievements, goals and areas for growth. Teachers are providing feedback on progress and suggesting strategies for continued improvement, while parents can celebrate successes and support their child’s next steps. Working together helps ensure that every child feels supported both at school and at home, and that we are all partners in their learning journey.
Planning Week
As we come to the end of Term 3, our teachers are busy preparing for the exciting term ahead. During Planning Week, staff work together to review student progress, design engaging learning experiences, and set goals that will ensure every child has a successful Term 4. This time also allows teachers to collaborate, share ideas, and create activities that support both academic learning and student wellbeing.
Whole School Wellbeing Day
On Wednesday of next week, our school will be recognising R U OK? Day, a national day that reminds us all to check in with the people around us and ask a simple but powerful question: “Are you OK?” At school, students will be learning about the importance of kindness, looking out for each other, and how small conversations can make a big difference. We encourage families to continue these discussions at home and remind children that talking to a trusted friend, teacher or family member can really help when they’re feeling worried or upset. Together, we can build a caring and supportive community where everyone feels safe and connected.
Ride to School Day
Next Thursday, our students will take part in Ride to School Day, celebrating the fun and healthy habit of cycling to school. To build on this, students from Years 5 & 6 will participate in an AusBike incursion where they learn important bike safety skills, road awareness, and how to ride with confidence. The program encourages students to stay active, look after their wellbeing, and make safe choices when riding in the community. It is a wonderful opportunity for students to combine fitness with practical life skills!
End of Term Arrangements
A reminder that Term 3 concludes on Friday September 19th. There will be a whole school assembly in the Gymnasium at 1.45pm, and students will be dismissed from classrooms at the earlier time of 2.30pm.
Kind regards
Duncan Cant