Student News

Student activities and event highlights 

PE/Sport Update

Trafalgar Races Ahead at Divisional Athletics

 

On Monday 5 May, a group of Trafalgar Primary School students proudly represented the school at the West Gippsland Divisional Athletics Carnival, held at Joe Carmody Athletics Track in Newborough. Qualifying for this event is a significant achievement, with each student earning their place through strong performances at the District level. We are proud to share their results and commend them for their effort, determination, and sportsmanship on the day.

 

In the 9/10 Girls division, Peyton H delivered an exceptional all-round performance, securing 1st place in both the 1500m and the 4x100m relay, as well as 2nd place in the 800m and High Jump. Her determination across track and field events was a standout. She was joined in the winning 4x100m relay team by Addison B, Havana B, and Layla R—each of whom played an important role in the team’s success. Addison also impressed individually, finishing 2nd in the 100m sprint.

 

In the 9/10 Boys category, Mack P showed great resilience, placing 4th in the 100m and finishing in the top 8 in the discus event. Among the 11 Boys, Zane C placed 2nd in the shot put, with Elisha I following closely behind in 3rd. Max C had qualified for both the 800m and 1500m but, unfortunately, illness on the day prevented him from competing. Archie D competed in the high jump and achieved a solid 4th-place finish.

Sophie M represented the 11 Girls, placing in the top 8 in the 100m. In the 12/13 Girls division, Aurora C had a fantastic day, finishing 1st in the 100m, 2nd in the 200m, and placing in the top 6 in the triple jump.

 

Congratulations to all competitors. Your commitment and effort are to be celebrated—well done!

First Aid in Schools Program: Building Lifesaving Skills for Life

 

At Trafalgar Primary School, we recently participated in the First Aid in Schools Program, a nationally recognised initiative designed to empower primary students with the knowledge and confidence to respond in emergency situations. Delivered in a fun, engaging and age-appropriate way, the program aligns with the Victorian Curriculum F–10 and supports the development of a more resilient and informed community.

Each year level participated in a tailored session:

  • Foundation/Grade 1 explored emergency situations through Storytime with Johnny Bear, learning the Danger, Response, Send for help strategy and practising how to call 000.
  • Grade 2 students built on these skills with role-play scenarios, learning how to spot danger, respond safely and seek help, while testing their knowledge in a fun team quiz.
  • Grade 3/4 students took a closer look at assessing airway and breathing, and learnt how to place someone in the recovery position through interactive games and discussions.
  • Grade 5/6 students participated in a more advanced session, learning how and when to perform CPR and applying their knowledge to a variety of real-life first aid scenarios.

This valuable program not only teaches students what to do in an emergency but also builds their confidence to take action when it counts. It’s a crucial step in ensuring our students are prepared, capable, and ready to help others when needed.

For more information about the First Aid in Schools Program, visit: https://www.stjohnvic.com.au

Hockey Victoria Roadshow

 

On Thursday 8 and Friday 9 May, all Grade 3–6 students at Trafalgar Primary had the chance to take part in the Hockey Victoria Roadshow—a fun and active introduction to the sport of hockey.

Led by experienced coaches and supported by our local hockey community, the sessions used fast-paced games and familiar activities—like the crowd-favourite Hoctopus—to help students build confidence, learn new skills, and enjoy being part of a team.

The Roadshow also helped students discover local opportunities to keep playing, including Hookin2Hockey—a junior program where kids can keep building their skills, growing their confidence, and connecting with new friends.

It was a great chance for our students to step outside their comfort zone, develop their coordination, and experience the fun and energy of playing in a team.

 

 

Sport and Physical Education in Winter Weather

 

At Trafalgar Primary School, we recognise the vital role that regular physical activity plays in supporting students’ physical, social, and emotional development. Our aim is to ensure all students can participate in and enjoy the benefits of our Sport and Physical Education (PE) program throughout the entire school year—regardless of seasonal weather conditions.

As we progress through Term 2, our focus has shifted to Winter Sport, which includes outdoor activities such as AFL Football, Soccer, Netball, Tee-Ball, and Cross-Country Running.

These sports are designed to be played outdoors and cannot be fully replicated in our indoor gym. Understandably, colder and wetter weather can make some students hesitant to participate in outdoor physical activities. To support your child in feeling prepared and comfortable during winter Sport and PE sessions, we encourage you to consider the following:

 

Suggested Items for Winter Sport and PE Days

 

To help students stay warm, dry, and comfortable, please consider ensuring your child is equipped with:

  1. A Waterproof JacketA durable, waterproof jacket will provide protection from cold winds and light rain during outdoor activities.
  2. Spare Footwear and Socks 

    An extra pair of socks and suitable running shoes will allow your child to change into dry gear after their session if required.

  3. A Spare Set of Clothes

    While not always necessary, a spare set of clothing can be useful on days when the oval is particularly damp or muddy. This helps ensure your child remains dry and comfortable for the remainder of the school day.

Weather Considerations

 

Sport and PE sessions will continue to be held outdoors on cold days, on damp ovals, and during light or passing showers. In cases of persistent heavy rain or when conditions are deemed unsafe, lessons will be moved indoors.

 

If you have any questions about the Sport and PE program during the winter months, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We welcome your feedback and remain committed to continuously improving the quality and accessibility of our program.

 

Term 2 Music Update

Do it for Dolly Day

Last Friday the students and staff came to school dressed in blue to honour ‘Do it for Dolly’ day. This day recognises bullying and related youth suicide.

Some exceptionally talented and dedicated music students gave a special performance during the assembly, featuring the song Speak Up, which was written specifically for the occasion.

Led by Yasmine Mynard, Paige Mynard and Isla Coffey on lead vocals they were accompanied by a band and the choir. Actions, clapping, and a whole school singalong featured in a wonderful performance.

 

 

Instrumental

The mid-year instrumental concert will take place in the music room on the afternoon/night of Thursday 26th June. 

Instrumental teachers will be sending home a note with more details if your child is prepared and willing to perform at this event. If you would definitely like your child to perform at the concert you should contact your instrumental teacher and let them know.

I have provided some photos from last year’s mid-year instrumental concert.

 

 

Song of the year

In Terms 2 and 3, all music classes are starting each lesson by listening and interacting with 2 songs and then voting for one of the songs. We start with 16 songs. The teachers and school staff also get a vote. The songs are the school’s bell music and songs are removed from the bell music when they lose.

We will eliminate songs until a winner is chosen. The theme for this year’s vote is Music styles.

 

Here is the chart that will update each week - 2025 Best Song - Music genres

STEM Update

In week 3 all students finally got to see the long-awaited elephant's toothpaste demonstration and were not disappointed by this erupting chemical reaction. 

Grade 5 and 6 students witnessed some demonstrations that are always a crowd pleaser and err on the side of magic. Please ask them about the no spill water flask and Mrs B’s fire trick. 

 

Preps, Grade 1’s and 2’s investigated what things are made of and sorted different objects according to their properties. Our big question this term is “What is it made of?” 

They also used different materials to build the tallest structure possible and used only paper to build a structure that could hold weights up to 13kg. 

 

Grade 3’s and 4’s also did some sorting of materials and objects according to their properties and use but were fully engaged in a plastimake project where they were given plastic pellets to melt and mould into a figurine or object of their own design. 

 

Grade 5’s and 6’s dived deeper into understanding the difference between solids, liquids and gases down to the particle level, including different types and uses as well as the process of moving between the states of matter - liquid water… ice (solid water) ... steam (vapour/gaseous water). 

 

They discovered that Carbon Dioxide gas is produced when bicarb and vinegar react by pouring the invisible gas onto a candle which gets extinguished. I look forward to discovering more of the amazing properties of water with the senior students. 

 

Parents, please note that long hair must be tied back during STEM lessons. Bringing along a spare hair tie to keep in your STEM folder would be appreciated as I don't want anyone to miss out! Students have been made aware that any unsafe behaviour in the STEM room will result in them missing out on physical participation in the activity. 

 

Get in the zone!

 

Mrs B.

JSC - Do It for Dolly Fundraiser

On Friday, 9th May 2025, our Junior School Councillors hosted a fundraiser in support of Do It for Dolly Day. During assembly, Paige, Yasmine, Isla, and Mabel shared the powerful message behind the initiative and highlighted why this cause matters.

 

A big thank you to everyone who wore casual clothes and contributed a gold coin donation.  We raised $340.90 - your support makes a difference.

 

If you'd like to learn more about the Dolly’s Dream charity, you can visit their website.

 

https://www.dollysdream.org.au/event/do-it-for-dolly-day/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22305173421&gbraid=0AAAAAq9teifa4GKzzWdksg9ANrBnWT9Mi&gclid=Cj0KCQjw8cHABhC-ARIsAJnY12wRvbYUz-bM6BLgch6mlgzMCPRnV1lLqWkRb9l2V9gwOOsKj5SofUIaAv1ZEALw_wcB

 

Breakfast Club

It has been wonderful to welcome students and families back to Breakfast Club this term!  We have had so many students visit us in the mornings for delicious toasties, cereals and milos to help kick start their learning day.  We are so thankful for the many generous food donations provided by the community and from our sponsors - Foodbank, IGA Trafalgar, Bakers Delight Mid Valley and Gracie’s Bakery.

 

Due to these donations, Breakfast Club continues to be able to support families through the provision of Care Packages.  We remind families that our Traf Pantry can be found in the Gym Foyer and continues to be stocked with many excellent products, available to anyone - and they’re free!  If you would like to receive a Care Package or know of a family who may benefit, feel free to drop into our School Office, see Mrs Burns or Mrs Marslen.

 

Donations of Jam and Milo needed, please!

Thank you again to all families who have generously donated tins of Milo to our Breakfast Club.  Any extra donations of Milo, as well as jam would be greatly appreciated to support our school community!  

 

Looking forward to seeing you for brekky this term!

 

Mrs Burns and Mrs Marslen

Breakfast Club Masterchefs