Important Notices
Sushi - begins next Friday 15th May
Just a reminder for families who have placed Term 2 sushi lunch orders that these commence NEXT Friday (15th May).
Please remember to pack a lunch and morning snack as normal this week.
Postponement of Industrial Action
As you may have read this week, there has been progress in negotiations between the Government and the Australian Education Union for a new industrial agreement for Teachers, Principals and Education Support staff.
This has meant that, for now, the campaign of stopwork/strike action has been placed on hold. This includes the half day strike for staff at our school that was scheduled for Thursday 21st May.
We will keep families updated as we learn more and endeavour to provide as much advance notice as possible should strike action be resumed.
Exciting news from the SKiPPS orchestra
Our wonderful SKiPPS orchestra wanted to share the great news that have been awarded a generous grant from South Melbourne Community Chest for the 2026 school year.
This funding allows them to support a number of students by covering participation fees, ensuring that more children have access to music.
No child should miss out on the opportunity to experience the many benefits of music due to financial constraints. Music education has been shown to support children's cognitive development, enhance memory and concentration and contribute positively to academic performance. Beyond this, it builds confidence, creativity and a sense of belonging, especially within the SKIPPS Orchestra, which is a truly special group.
We are also incredibly lucky to have Michael Roper. A former SKIPPS teacher, Michael brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of our community. His ability to connect with students and inspire them musically creates an environment where they can thrive and grow.
If financial concerns have ever been a barrier to your child's participation, we encourage you to come along Wednesdays at 8am and be part of the orchestra. We are committed to making this program accessible and inclusive for all.
Lost Property
As the weather cools down and students begin wearing extra layers, we are noticing an increasing number of jumpers and jackets being left around the school. A quick reminder to please clearly name all clothing items, as this makes it much easier for us to return them to their owners.
Our lost property is located on the rack near the piano off the quadrangle, and families are welcome to check it at any time. There are currently plenty of cosy layers waiting to be reunited with their owners.
Due to Allison’s absence, we would also greatly appreciate the support of any parents who may have a spare hour or two to help tidy, sort and return the growing amount of lost property. If you are available to lend a hand at any point, please contact Neil.
Chicken sitters still needed
We are putting out an additional call for chicken sitters for Term 2, as we still have a few days without volunteers, so would really appreciate a few more families signing up if you’re able.
Please sign up here:
Visiting the SKiPPS chooks can be done any day or time throughout the week. It involves checking on the chickens, collecting eggs, and topping up food and water. It usually takes around 15 minutes, but you’re very welcome to spend longer with them if you wish.
They love time out of the coop and are very calming to watch as they scratch around the back area of the school, so feel free to let them roam. As an added bonus, you get to keep the eggs you collect! 🐔🥚
If you’ve never done chicken sitting at SKiPPS before, please contact Chantel to organise a short training session before or after school chantel.jose@education.vic.gov.au
It's not too late to enrol in Robotics class!
We have had to postpone Chess classes due to low enrolment numbers. If you are interested, please contact Kids Unlimited on the details below.
Bookings are still open at Kids Unlimited for Robotics after school on Tuesdays
Robotics commences on Tuesday 5 May
Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund
The Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF) provides a $400 payment in 2026 for eligible students to attend the following activities at SKiPPS:
- school camps
- swimming activities
Families holidng a valid means-tested concession card or temporary foster parents are eligible to apply. A special consideration category also exists.
For further information go to : Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund | vic.gov.au
Application forms are available from the School Office or you can downloaded the form below. Please return all completed CSEF Application Forms to the School Office along with a copy of your valid means tested concession card and other documentation (if applicable) as soon as possible.
Note: Applications close for 2026 on 26 June 2026.
Life Saving Victoria
