Principal Team Update

YEAR 1/2 REPTILE ENCOUNTERS AT RPS 

On Monday 22nd June, the students in Year 1/2 welcomed Nic from Reptile Encounters to 1/2A’s classroom for an exciting animal classification incursion. This hands-on experience provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and consolidate students’ learning from their Inquiry unit on the classification of living things.

Throughout the session, students met a variety of fascinating native Australian animals and learned how scientists classify creatures based on their features. Nic shared interesting facts about each animal, including their habitats, behaviours and unique adaptations.

Students were thrilled to see a Barking Owl, Carpet Python, Frill-Necked Lizard, Saltwater Crocodile and Squirrel Glider up close. One of the biggest highlights of the day was the opportunity to safely touch and interact with several animals, including an Olive Python, Shingleback Lizard and Murray River Turtle.

The incursion was an engaging and memorable learning experience that brought our Inquiry studies to life. Students asked thoughtful questions, demonstrated their growing understanding of animal classification and thoroughly enjoyed meeting these amazing creatures.

A big thank you to Nic from Reptile Encounters for sharing his knowledge and helping make learning so much fun!

Braden Leech, Stef Hoffner and Sergio Msahli Azagane 

LEARNING MATTERS: WHY REDUCING DISTRACTIONS HELP EVERY CHILD TO LEARN 

At Ripponlea Primary School, one of our ongoing priorities is ensuring that every student has the opportunity to learn, retain knowledge and experience success in the classroom. This week, we have been exploring this idea with students from Foundation to Year 4, with Year 5/6 discussions taking place tomorrow.

A key concept underpinning our work is Cognitive Load Theory, which simply means that our brains can only process a limited amount of new information at one time. When students are learning something new, they need to focus their attention on the lesson, the task and the thinking required. Every distraction competes for that attention and reduces the brain's capacity to learn.

Research tells us that learning occurs when information moves from our working memory into our long-term memory. This process requires concentration, repetition, practice and attention. When students are distracted, they often miss critical pieces of information, making it more difficult to understand, remember and apply their learning.

This week, we asked students a simple question:

"What behaviours distract your learning?"

Importantly, we did not ask students to name individuals. Instead, we focused on the actions and behaviours that interrupt learning.

Across year levels, students consistently identified:

• Talking during learning time
• Calling out and making loud noises
• Students wandering around the classroom
• Touching, pushing or interfering with others
• Playing with objects and equipment
• Silly or attention-seeking behaviours
• Interrupting transitions between learning activities

What was particularly encouraging was that students were also able to identify their own role in creating a positive learning environment. Many suggested strategies such as:

• Moving away from distractions
• Politely speaking up when learning is being interrupted
• Encouraging peers to make positive choices
• Not reinforcing inappropriate behaviour by laughing, joining in or giving attention to it

One phrase that emerged from our discussions was:

"Hey, that's not okay."

Students recognised that respectful peer feedback can help maintain a positive learning environment for everyone.

As part of these discussions, we also explored the power of non-verbal prompts. Students learned that not every interruption requires a verbal response from a teacher or peer. Simple strategies such as eye contact, a gesture, pointing to expectations, moving closer to a student, or redirecting attention back to the task can often help students self-correct without interrupting the learning of others. 

Drawing on the work of Bill Hansberry, we know that the least intrusive intervention is often the most effective. These subtle prompts maintain student dignity, reduce unnecessary attention on inappropriate behaviour and help keep the entire class focused on learning.

This work aligns closely with the thinking of education consultant Bill Hansberry, who reminds us that behaviour is communication and that every behaviour serves a function. Often, students engage in certain behaviours because they are seeking something—attention, connection, avoidance, sensory stimulation or a sense of control.

One of the most common functions of disruptive behaviour is attention-seeking. While attention is a normal human need, students sometimes learn that calling out, being silly or disrupting others is an effective way to gain social recognition from peers. When classmates laugh, react or engage, the behaviour is reinforced and becomes more likely to occur again.

This is why we are helping students understand that distractions are often a choice. While all children make mistakes and occasionally lose focus, students can learn strategies to regulate their behaviour, make positive choices and contribute to a productive learning environment. Equally important is helping students understand that they do not need to reward distracting behaviours with attention. By staying focused on their learning and encouraging peers respectfully, students can help create classrooms where everyone can succeed.

At Ripponlea, we want every classroom to be a place where students feel safe, respected and ready to learn. By reducing distractions and increasing engagement, we maximise every child's opportunity to build knowledge, develop confidence and achieve success. Every minute spent learning matters, and every student deserves the opportunity to learn without unnecessary interruptions.

Looking ahead to Term 3, we will continue this work by exploring the concept of consequential learning and helping students understand the relationship between the choices they make and the outcomes they experience. Students will be encouraged to reflect on how their decisions impact not only their own learning, wellbeing and relationships, but also the learning opportunities of others. 

Through classroom discussions, refelective practices and explicit teaching, we will support students to recognise that every choice has a consequence—some positive, some less desirable—and that taking responsibility for our actions is an important part of becoming a successful learner and community member.

Our goal is not simply to reduce inappropriate behaviour; it is to help students develop the self-awareness, self-regulation and decision-making skills that will serve them throughout their lives. By understanding how choices influence outcomes, students become empowered to make decisions that support their own success, contribute positively to their classroom community and uphold our shared commitment to learning.

Learning is a team effort between students, staff and families. Thank you for your ongoing support as we continue to strengthen the learning culture across our school and uphold our commitment to helping every student thrive.

PARENT INFORMATION SESSION - BIG FEELINGS (THEIRS AND OURS): MAKING SENSE OF MODERN PARENTING 

We are pleased to share a wonderful opportunity for parents and carers being hosted by Caulfield Junior College and community partners.

Big Feelings (Theirs and Ours): Making Sense of Modern Parenting will be presented by renowned parent educator, author, TEDx speaker and mum of four boys, Gen Muir.

📅 Monday 27 July 2026🕖 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm (Doors open at 6:45 pm)

📍 The Auditorium, Glen Eira Town Hall Corner Glen Eira and Hawthorn Roads, Caulfield

In this engaging and practical presentation, Gen will share evidence-based tools and strategies to help parents navigate the challenges of modern parenting while raising emotionally healthy children.

The session will explore:

• Understanding and responding to children's big emotions
• Managing our own emotions as parents and carers
• Building stronger family connections
• Practical strategies to support emotional wellbeing and resilience at home

Gen's approach is warm, relatable and grounded in research. Families will leave feeling supported, empowered and equipped with practical strategies they can implement immediately.

At Ripponlea Primary School, we know that supporting children's wellbeing is most effective when schools and families work together. We encourage any parent or carer interested in children's emotional development, wellbeing and positive parenting approaches to attend this valuable session.

This is a free event; however, registration is essential and seating is limited. Please check the Compass newsfeed for further information and the registration link.

We thank Caulfield Junior College for extending this invitation to our school community and hope many of our families can take advantage of this wonderful opportunity

FOOD, BODIES & LUNCHTIMES: FAMILY WEBINAR

Last Thursday, we were fortunate to host a family webinar with Better Health Network presenters Kayla and Amie as part of our Food, Bodies and Lunchtimes project. Thank you to the families who joined us online. For those unable to attend, the presentation slides are attached.

Some of the key messages shared during the webinar included:

1. Creating Positive Relationships with Food and Bodies

Research shows that children begin developing ideas about food, body image and weight from a very young age. The way adults talk about food, eating and bodies can have a significant impact on children's wellbeing and self-image.

2. Moving Away from "Good" and "Bad" Foods

Children benefit from learning that all foods can have a place in a balanced diet. Labelling foods as "good", "bad", "healthy" or "unhealthy" can unintentionally create feelings of guilt, shame or anxiety around eating.

3. Supporting Independence and Body Trust

Children are naturally capable of recognising their own hunger and fullness cues. Families can support this by:

• Providing regular meals and snacks.
• Offering a variety of foods.
• Allowing children to decide how much they eat from what is provided.

• Avoiding pressure to finish everything in their lunchbox.

   

4. Lunchboxes Don't Need to Be Perfect

The presenters encouraged families to pack a "good enough" lunchbox rather than striving for perfection. Familiar foods, enough food to satisfy your child, and foods your child is likely to eat are often the most successful choices.

Helpful Conversations at Home

Rather than focusing on what was or wasn't eaten, families were encouraged to ask curious and supportive questions such as:

• "What foods would you like in your lunchbox?"
• "How can I help make eating at school easier?"

• "I noticed there is some food left over. Would you like less tomorrow or would you like to finish it now?"

   

What This Means at Ripponlea

Throughout this project, students, staff and families have helped shape our Food Environment Value Statements. Our goal is to create calm, predictable and respectful eating environments where:

• Students have adequate time to eat.
• Food and bodies are discussed respectfully.
• Students are not judged for what is in their lunchbox.
• We celebrate the diversity of foods, cultures and bodies within our community.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership as we continue to foster positive, respectful and healthy relationships with food, bodies and lunchtime experiences for all students at Ripponlea Primary School. Please take some time to browse through the attached slides if you would like to learn more.

THE RETURN OF THE RPS CAKE RAFFLE!

Rippers, we would love to bring back a wonderful old RPS tradition, the Friday Cake Raffle!

Many of our long-term families may remember the days when our generous parent bakers would donate a delicious homemade cake, slice or sweet treat to be raffled off at assembly. It was always a highlight of the week, and the lucky winner took home something truly scrumptious to enjoy with their family.

What many people may not realise is that every dollar raised through the cake raffle went directly towards student leadership projects. In fact, the buddy benches located outside OSHC and the Japanese Room were funded entirely through proceeds from previous cake raffles.

We would love to see this tradition return. It doesn't need to happen every week even a fortnightly raffle would make a wonderful contribution to our school community. To make it work, we only need around five volunteer bakers per term who are willing to donate a baked item when rostered.

Whether it's a family favourite slice, cupcakes, muffins, biscuits or a classic cake, every contribution helps our students make a difference around the school.

If you would be willing to join our Cake Raffle Bakers Team, please contact Lee at the office. We'd love to hear from you.

Together, let's bring back a much-loved RPS tradition and continue supporting student-led projects across our school.

WELCOME BACK TO TERM 3 - COFFEE MORNING & ASSEMBLY 

On Monday 13 July, on behalf of TheirCare and Ripponlea Primary School, we warmly welcome all families back for the start of Term 3.

To help celebrate the beginning of a new term, TheirCare is generously sponsoring a coffee van, so come along, grab a hot cuppa, and enjoy a relaxed start to the day with our school community.

We encourage families to stay for our Whole School Assembly and support their child as they transition back to school after the holiday break. It's a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with friends, staff and families and start the term together.

☕ Coffee, tea and other refreshments will be available from 8:00 am – 9:00 am.

We can't wait to see your smiling faces, refreshed and ready for another fantastic term of learning, growth and connection at RPS.

Date: Monday 13 July

Time: 8:00 am – 9:00 am

Location: School grounds prior to assembly

Thank you to TheirCare for their generous support of our school community. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for an exciting Term 3! 🌟

GO SOCCEROOS - WEAR GREEN & GOLD TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT - FRIDAY 

There has been plenty of excitement around school this week as Australia prepares to take on Paraguay in the FIFA World Cup Qualifier on Friday at 12:00pm.

To celebrate this special occasion, students are invited to come dressed in their green and gold colours and join us in cheering on the Socceroos as we watch the game together. There is absolutely no pressure to dress up, but we know many of our Rippers love their soccer and may enjoy showing their support for the Australian team.

While we will still be providing engaging learning opportunities and end-of-term activities throughout the day, opportunities to watch Australia compete on the world stage do not come along every day. We hope this will be a memorable and exciting way to finish what has been an epic Term 2.

Events such as these provide a wonderful opportunity for students to experience national pride, sportsmanship, teamwork and resilience while sharing in a significant sporting moment with their friends and classmates.

Let's get behind the Socceroos and show our Australian spirit as a school community!

Go Australia! 💚💛⚽

HAPPY HOLIDAYS 

As we approach the end of Term 2, we would like to take the opportunity to thank our students, staff and families for what has been an incredibly busy, productive and rewarding term.

To say the term has been busy would be an understatement! From the very first weeks, our school has been buzzing with learning, opportunities and experiences that have helped our students grow both academically and personally.

One of the highlights early in the term was our annual House Cross Country. It was wonderful to see students demonstrating determination, resilience and house spirit as they challenged themselves and cheered on their peers. The encouragement and support shown throughout the day reflected the very best of our school values.

Our Year 5/6 students then boarded a flight to Canberra, an experience many will remember for years to come. The camp provided an authentic and engaging opportunity to deepen their understanding of democracy, government and Australian history. The excitement, curiosity and maturity displayed by our students made us incredibly proud.

Throughout the term, our Student Wellbeing Team led important initiatives, including our celebration of IDAHOBIT Day and Be Yourself Day. It was a wonderful opportunity for our community to recognise and celebrate diversity, inclusion and belonging, reinforcing the message that everyone deserves to feel safe, valued and respected at Ripponlea Primary School.

Education Week provided another highlight, with families welcomed into classrooms during our Open Classroom sessions. It was fantastic to provide a glimpse into what learning looks like, sounds like and feels like at RPS. 

Across the school, students have been on the move every day, whether participating in sport, specialist programs, incursions, camps, performances or classroom learning. Alongside these exciting opportunities, students have also completed a range of assessments, including PAT testing, DIBELS and classroom assessments, helping teachers measure growth, celebrate progress and plan future learning.

We were also delighted to hear that the RPS Winter Soirée was a fantastic evening and another wonderful example of the strong and connected community we have at Ripponlea Primary School. Families enjoyed coming together to celebrate student talent, creativity and performance. Congratulations to The Ripoffs on their victory in the Battle of the Bands, showcasing the confidence, enthusiasm and musical talents of our parents. 

Last week, our Year 5/6 students thoroughly enjoyed participating in the Balaclava Round Robin, representing the school with enthusiasm, teamwork and sportsmanship throughout the day.

As we reflect on the term, what stands out most is the commitment shown by our students to learning, growing and living our school values of Respect, Resilience, Creativity, Open-Mindedness, Integrity and Community. We continue to be impressed by the way our students support one another, embrace challenges and strive to be the best versions of themselves.

We would also like to acknowledge our dedicated staff, who continually invest their time, expertise and care into ensuring every student can thrive. Their commitment to continuous improvement and high-quality teaching makes a significant difference to the learning and wellbeing of our students.

Finally, thank you to our families for your ongoing support and partnership. Together, we continue to create a vibrant learning community where students feel connected, challenged and supported.

We wish all staff, students and families a wonderful break when it arrives and look forward to finishing the term strongly together.

Until next term!

Natalie Rose             &                        Marta Campbell 

      Principal                                         Assistant Principal