Whole School News
Bob Brinkman Tribute
Recently, the family and friends of our cherished Life Member, Bob Brinkman, gathered to celebrate his remarkable life at his funeral service. Bob, who lived to the age of 93, left behind a legacy that has profoundly impacted Leighland Christian School and the community.
Bob played a pivotal role in the establishment of our school in Ulverstone. His commitment to Christian education on the North West Coast of Tasmania was evident when he arranged for the purchase of the land on which our school now stands. In a selfless act of dedication, Bob negotiated the sale in his own name before transferring the property to our Association, ensuring that the vision of the school could become a reality. His determination didn’t stop there; he oversaw the levelling of the land, as it was an undulating sand coast plain with some low-lying wetlands due to its proximity to the ocean, transforming the natural landscape into a suitable site for our school, which began its journey in 1976.
His passion for faith and education is immortalised in the beautiful wood carvings scattered across our campuses, each representing passages of scripture that inspire us every day. Bob, a talented wood carver, spent the last 30 years of his life dedicating his skills to this art, following his earlier career as a steel fabricator.
Bob’s early life in the Netherlands was marked by hardship and humility, as World War II disrupted his education. However, he viewed these challenges as opportunities for growth, embodying tenacity and faith throughout his life. He showed us that with God’s guidance, one can overcome difficulties and achieve greatness.
When we think of Bob, three words resonate: vision, passion and legacy. His vision is reflected in the land that became our school; his passion is evident in the carvings that inspire us; and his legacy continues through the thriving community of Leighland Christian School, shaping the hearts and minds of our students today and for generations to come.
As we remember Bob, we give thanks to God for his faithfulness and for the incredible journey we shared with Bob Brinkman. His contributions will forever be woven into the fabric of our school, inspiring all who walk through our doors.
Pre-Kinder Dinner
The Pre-Kinder Dinner was a wonderful opportunity to connect with both parents and students as we look ahead to the next school year. The evening was filled with conversation, laughter and a sense of community, as families gathered to meet teachers, staff and fellow parents. It was a chance to learn more about the unique personalities and interests of the children who will soon be joining the Leighland family.
See you all next year!
Combined Kinder to Year 2 Athletics Carnival
The combined Burnie and Ulverstone Kinder to Year 2 Athletics Carnival was an exciting and vibrant celebration of athleticism and school spirit. Students from both campuses gathered for a day filled with friendly competition, fun activities and team spirit. The young athletes participated in a variety of events designed to showcase their skills and enthusiasm, from sprints to relay races. It was a fantastic opportunity for students to bond, cheer each other on, and create lasting memories.
ENROLMENTS 2025
A huge thank you to parents and guardians for submitting your ‘Enrolment Intention for 2025’ form via our EdSmart system. This is very valuable in assisting our planning for next year.
For parents and guardians who indicated that they are unsure if their child will be returning next year, it would be greatly appreciated if you would let me know once you have confirmed your plans, on 6425 0999 or m.mott@leighland.tas.edu.au
If you are aware of a family who are considering enrolment for their child for next year, or beyond, I encourage you please to ask them to contact Nicole Gillam at our Burnie Campus 6430 9000 or n.gillam@leighland.tas.edu or myself so that we can organise them an information pack or a tour, to assist them in their decision making process. Information packs are also available from the office if you have someone in mind that you would like to pass them on to.
Melinda Mott (Registrar)
UNIFORM – CHANGE TO MIDFORD
A reminder to families that the last day for purchasing uniform from the school is this Friday 22 November to allow a stock-take and handover of our current stock supply to Midford.
Uniform will be available to purchase directly from Midford either online from Friday 29 November or in-store at 1/59 Wright Street, East Devonport from Saturday 30 November (Friday 29 November is the Devonport Show Holiday).
Midford Store Normal Trading Hours
Monday: 8.30am – 12.30pm
Wednesday: 1.30pm – 4.30pm
Friday: 8.30am – 12.30pm
Saturday: 10.00am – 1.00pm
The Midford Shop will close for the school holidays on Friday 20 December at 12.30pm and will re-open Monday 13 January at 9.00am.
Midford Store Extended Trading Hours from Monday 13 January until Saturday 8 February 2025 (normal trading hours will then resume)
Mondays & Tuesdays 9.00am – 2.00pm
Wednesday & Thursdays: 12.00pm – 5.00pm
Friday & Saturdays: 9.00am – 2.00pm
Monday 27 January, the shop will be closed for the public holiday.
2025 Term Dates
Term 1 3 February Year 11/12 Students Commence
5 February Year 7 Students Commence
6 February Rest of School Commence
10 March Public Holiday
9 April Last day of Term 1 for students
10-11 April Whole School Student Free Day
18 April Good Friday- Public Holiday
21 April Easter Monday - Public Holiday
22 April Easter Tuesday - School Holiday
25 April ANZAC Holiday - Public Holiday
Term 2 28 April First day of Term 2
6 June Student Free day - Burnie only
9 June Public Holiday
2 July Last day of Term 2 for Students
3-4 July Whole School Student Free Days
21-23 July Whole School Student Free Days
Term 3 24 July First Day of Term 3
25 September Last Day of Term 3 for students
26 September Whole School Student Free Day
3 October Burnie Show - Public Holiday
Term 4 13 October Student Free Day - Primary Only
13 October First day of Term 4 - Secondary Only
14 October First Day of Term 4 - Primary
3 November Public Holiday
27 November Last day for Year 10 students
28 November Public Holiday
9 December Last day of Term 4 for students
10-13 December Whole School Student Free Days