A note from Mr Jackson

On The Edge Of The School Fair

We’re on the eve of our Old School Fair. Thanks to those who have already spent hours in preparation for the experience. There have been a huge number of volunteers who have worked tirelessly to ensure the Fair continues. A whole new group of committee members gathered at the start of the year and have collaborated to realise the event. They ensured drinks were ordered, power points installed, cups and saucers were washed, books ordered, and a million other small actions. Each small action has now come together into our School Fair event. Thanks to all who have and will volunteer their efforts for the fair.

Please consider inviting friends and family along to enjoy the experience. A number of staff have doubted the throwing accuracy of our community, bravely putting their bodies on the line at the dunking tank. Myself, Mrs Whitechurch, Glenys Schubert, Clr Peter Castaldo, Ms Kaiser and Mr Phillips are all hoping to stay dry!  I don't like their chances!!

The Art Room has been transferred into something like the Louvre! Don’t miss out on visiting this transformed space that will cause you to wonder, smile and even consider your own artistic endeavours!

While for some, the rides and performances might be the highlight, for others it may be the discovery of a new book. I am convinced that your visit and engagement in the fair will be a wonderful opportunity to connect and contribute to our school community.

Remembrance Day

Our school captains and student leaders were present at the Remembrance Day ceremony held at Watsonia RSL on Saturday. They laid a wreath on behalf of staff, students and the parent community in remembrance. For those who were present at the assembly last Friday, they would have participated in a moment of silence to acknowledge Remembrance Day. Special thanks to parents and students who participated and reminded us of the importance of remembering, the tragedy of war and committing to a more peaceful future.

RSL Student Scholarship

Each year the Watsonia RSL take time to acknowledge the contribution of student leaders in school communities. This year, Emily Parker was conferred with the scholarship demonstrating her quiet leadership and role modelling that supports her peers. She is a well deserved recipient of such a prestigious award. It was wonderful to have her family, Mrs Whitechurch and student leaders share in the presentation of the scholarship during a morning tea on Saturday.

Working Bee Thanks

Students and parents and carers were left windswept by the extreme blowing of the playground on Saturday during the Working Bee. Pods were swept and leaves blown, leaving the yard clean and ready for the big do on Saturday. We also had the advantage of many hands that enabled five cubic metres of soil to be spread over the old softball diamond. This levelling of that area will make all the difference to our soccer and AFL players. I had the chance to sharpen my Sausage sizzling skills with a BBQ at lunch that was enjoyed by all. Thanks for all who joined us for the morning.

Prep Information Evening

Our 2024 Prep parents and careers were joined with a number of our Foundation level teachers to further support parents making the leap from the world of Kindergartens and child care centres to school. It was wonderful to hear our Prep parents discuss strategies to support their child/ren’s development for school. We hope to meet many of them at the Fair on Saturday.

First Nations Students Gathering on Wednesday

Wednesday saw 12 of our Aboriginal students from Rosanna Primary gather with 30 other students from across the Banyule Local Council area to learn a little more of Aboriginal culture. It proved an important space for parents and students together and connect across schools in our local community. It was wonderful to have Councillor Peter Castaldo present along with the new Mayor of Banyule, Councillor Tom Melican. Council’s collaboration through the Barbunin Beek Gathering Space has been central to our termly gatherings. This week, students decorated Tshirts and bags, many with traditional symbols. Students met and learned from Aunty Brenda. Mrs Whitechurch even had an opportunity to dress in a traditional possum skin cloak!

Busking For Change Thanks

Many of you recall the wonderful singing of ‘Words Make the World Round’ that students performed at assembly as part of Busking for Change in term 3. It was not only a wonderful musical experience prepared by Mrs Bright but a fundraising effort that saw the school raise about $7000 towards the development of children’s stories in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages. What a highlight for the year! This week we received an email that said we were one of just a few winners for our fundraising efforts. Some goodies are on the way but most important, we can be proud of our outstanding contribution!