Principals' Page

World Teachers’ Day

Today we celebrated World Teachers’ Day, and it was a lovely chance to show our appreciation for the wonderful staff we have at Great Ryrie. 

We shared a special lunch, enjoyed a few treats, and passed on positive messages and kind words that reminded our teachers just how valued they are.

As a leadership team, we see the effort our teachers put in every single day including the the early mornings, the thoughtful planning, the gentle encouragement, the problem-solving, and the care they show to every child who walks through the door. They celebrate the wins, they support the tough days, and they help our students grow not just academically, but as people.

We are so thankful for our our staff and grateful for the way they turn up for our students and for each other. On behalf of myself and the whole school community, thank you for everything you do. Our school is a better place because of you.

School Review : A Positive and Exciting Outcome 

Over the past two weeks, Great Ryrie Primary School has participated in our official School Review, following the Department of Education’s required four-year review cycle.

We are delighted to share that the process has been extremely positive and is already highlighting the exceptional work happening across our school.

The review team included our appointed Reviewer, two Challenge Partners (experienced principals from other schools), our School Educational Improvement Leader and members of the GRPS Leadership Team. Together, they worked through a thorough and detailed process to evaluate the school’s performance and progress against our School Strategic Plan.

As part of the review, the panel:

• Observed classroom practice across the school
• Reviewed data sets including NAPLAN, Victorian Curriculum assessments, wellbeing surveys and attendance information
• Examined curriculum documentation and planning
• Spoke with staff, students and parents, collecting valuable feedback about learning, wellbeing and community engagement

• Explored our programs, school culture, and improvement journey

   

The feedback so far has been extremely encouraging. The panel has noted that GRPS is performing at a high level and, in many areas, isexceeding Department expectations. This is a wonderful acknowledgment of the expertise, commitment and care shown by our staff, the strong partnerships with families, and the hard work of our fantastic students.

The panel repeatedly commented on the fun and joy across the school, the calmness in classrooms, and the positive energy that is clearly visible in students and staff. They were particularly impressed that this strong school culture sits alongsidehigh academic achievement and outstanding learning outcomes.

One of the visiting principals even said, “Karen – you’ve inspired me. I’m going back to my school singing again!”-the Good Morning song of course. 

A sincere thank you to Richard Bailey, our School Council President, for his support throughout the process, and to our dedicated staff for their professionalism, preparation and pride in Great Ryrie. We are so proud of our community and the brilliant learning culture we have built together.

What a fantastic day we had for our Colour Fun Run!

Thank you to our school community for supporting this exciting event and helping us raise funds to upgrade our school playground. The oval was bursting with colour, smiles and laughter as students ran, danced and dodged clouds of colour powder.

Students looked amazing in their white shirts, sunglasses and headbands, and the energy from Prep to Year 6 was incredible. A big thank you to all families who registered and shared their profiles with family and friends. Your support is helping our school continue to be the best it can be.

Of course, the biggest highlight of the afternoon was the sliming!

Our top fundraisers proudly helped slime some student nominated staff members. Mrs Watson with her snorkel and flippers, Mr Warren-Smith, Miss B, Miss Hamilton and unfortunately myself, and weren’t we brilliant sports. The students absolutely loved seeing their teachers covered head-to-toe in green goo.

A huge thank you to our volunteers who helped with organisation, colour stations, marshalling, and end-of-day cleanup. These events truly aren’t possible without your support.

We can’t wait to see the grand total, but the rumour is over $20,000.00 has been raised so far!!

Enjoy the weekend with your family and friends 

Warm regards

Principal Karen Rouda and Assistant Principal  Melissa Roberts