This Week At OOPS
Social and Emotional Learning
Some cohorts have been engaged in social and emotional learning sessions with Kate (School Counsellor) and Adam (Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader). These small group sessions focus on supporting students to build positive friendships, strengthen problem-solving skills, and develop practical strategies to manage challenges.
A key focus has been exploring the concept of “Circles of Control,” where students identify what they can and cannot control in different situations . This helps students develop a clearer understanding of their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, and supports them to respond more calmly and confidently when challenges arise.
Through guided discussions and structured activities, students are learning how to communicate effectively, navigate friendship challenges, and make positive choices in social situations.
We will also be running this activity in the Wellbeing Room as part of our Education Week Community Open Evening from 5-7 pm on Thu 28th May.
This term in STEM, our Year 5 and 6 students have been exploring the fascinating world of Forensic Science. This week, they developed their microscope skills by closely examining and identifying different fabric weaves and fibres—just like real forensic investigators!
As part of our Junior Scholars Program, Year 4 students Quinn D and William M spent time this week interviewing staff members for a special assignment they are currently working on. Their initiative, confidence and curiosity were wonderful to see, and they did an excellent job asking thoughtful questions and engaging with staff.
Keep an eye out for our upcoming student newsletter, which will feature these interviews and showcase the fantastic work our students have been doing. Well done Quinn and William on a great initiative!
Mother's Day Stall
Our Mother’s Day Stall was held on Tuesday and was once again a wonderful success. A huge thank you to all of the dads who volunteered their time to run the stall and help our students choose special gifts for the important women in their lives. Your support and enthusiasm were greatly appreciated.
We would also like to extend a big thank you to Levon’s family for their very generous donation of a large quantity of beautiful bags which were sold at the stall.
Wellbeing Wagon Spotlight: Pop-Up Puppet Theatre
Our Wellbeing Wagon has recently featured a Pop-Up Puppet Theatre again, which has quickly become a popular activity with students.
Students have been highly engaged, using their creativity to develop characters and stories, while others have enjoyed being a captive and respectful audience. It has been great to see students demonstrating turn-taking, cooperation, and positive social interactions throughout the sessions.
Ginger has also been part of the experience, calmly sitting alongside students and contributing to the welcoming and settled atmosphere.
This activity has been a valuable way to support student wellbeing through play, creativity, and connection.
Winter Food Relief 🥫
We are proud to once again support FoodBoost, Anglicare Victoria’s major winter appeal, now in its fourth year at our school.
FoodBoost helps stock emergency relief centres with much-needed essentials for families doing it tough during the colder months. Donations of pantry staples, lunchbox items, hygiene products, as well as supermarket and fuel gift cards, make a real difference to those in our community.
Old Orchard families always make us incredibly proud with their generosity, and we know this year will be no exception.
We invite all families to get involved and support this important cause. Donations can be left at the office throughout the month of May.