Principal's Message

Happy New Year and Welcome Back to everyone in our wonderful school community - students, parents, staff and in particular new families to the school. 2019 has started off in the most positive way with our students returning to school with a sense of excitement in meeting their new teachers and reconnecting with their friends and new peers.

Our teachers returned a few days prior to the students, which enabled them to have everything ready to commence the term. We thank them for their preparations across the teaching programs and learning environments.  Over the two curriculum days our teachers participated in professional learning on School Wide Positive Behaviour Support with our coach Anthony King and Rebecca Skinner, we all completed some very important OH&S induction processes that ensures the safety of all!

We have spent the last few days visiting classrooms, meeting some new students and helping our new Foundation students settle in their first few days of school. We can honestly say that there were no tears, but many smiling faces. We are four days into the term and this term will be a very busy one with everyone adjusting back into the routines of school. Please remember if you need any assistance, do not hesitate to come and speak to any of us and please keep up to date with all school events through our fortnightly newsletter and of course our main communication portal – COMPASS. If you do forget who you can approach to help you on a range of matters, please refer to our Communications Matrix, developed by the School & Community Partnerships Committee of School Council.

At Ripponlea we have a genuine desire to create an environment that builds and strengthens the notion of family. We strive to create a community where students feel safe, valued, connected and have a strong sense of belonging. We encourage honest and open communication and wish everyone a very successful term ahead!

Our vision is for the children of Ripponlea to be global and creative thinkers, who are empowered with the skills and empathy to engage with an ever-changing world.

They care, they create, they connect.

YOU TELL US INTERVIEWS

Thank you to all the parents who took the time to attend these interviews. We hope it provided an opportunity for you to meet your child’s teacher and provide insights into your child’s character, strengths, interests, social and emotional needs, any family updates, aspirations and areas of concern.  The teachers have completed all handover meetings at the end of last year and will continue to touch base with you throughout this year. If you didn’t manage to make a time, please don’t hesitate to contact the teacher for another convenient time.

During the ‘You Tell Us’ interviews on Tuesday afternoon our House Captains took on their first challenge as School Leaders with much success. Students in Years 1-6 participated in a carousel of activities in their House groups led by the House Captains. Students spent time: completing an obstacle course ran by Furneaux, a game of Capture the Flag led by Carrington, musical chairs and team races led by Loch and a game of fruit salad led by Orrong. Students had a very active afternoon and we want to say a special well done to all our House Captains who have set a very high standard of what is to come for the rest of the year. How exciting!

PARENT–TEACHER PARTNERSHIPS

Research shows that one of the most important factors affecting a child’s performance in school is how involved their parents are in their education. Developing a healthy parent-teacher relationship is a great way to improve your child’s performance in school.

Getting to know your child’s teachers will not only benefit you, it will greatly improve your child’s chance of success in school. Establishing a strong parent-teacher relationship can be difficult or even intimidating, but there are some great tips to make the process easier:

• Parent-teacher communication should be focused on the best interests of the child. It is essential to your child’s success in school.
• Establish a regular means of parent-teacher communication. Whether communicating by phone, email, or in person, be proactive and work with the teacher in order to solve any problems.
• Another great tip is to send a note of appreciation to your child’s teacher for all that he or she does. Teachers often hear from parents only when there are complaints or conflicts. Acknowledge and inspire teachers with your recognition and support.
• Finally, create a strong parent-teacher relationship by volunteering. Helping out in the classroom is a great way to support your child’s teacher.

THANK YOU

We would like to send a massive thank you to: Kylie Jeffares, Sally Russell, Colin Smith and Susie Condron who offered their time to help Jo Ritson restore some sanity and space in the green container shed last Friday afternoon. We’ve now claimed a great storage space for all our extra sporting equipment as well as use for school events.

Happy Chinese New Year to all our families and until next fortnight!

    Natalie Rose                                                   Jess Grey

                   Principal                                              Assistant Principal