Dear Parents and Carers,

I am pleased to announce that Jodi Niedermayer has been appointed to the role of Principal at Oak Flats Public School, following a recent Merit selection process (pending the 10-day appeal period). Jodi will commence her principal role at the beginning of Term 2. Jodi is currently the substantive Principal of Mount Warrigal Public School and brings with her, a wealth of experience and knowledge throughout P-6. Please join with me in congratulating Jodi on this appointment and I look forward to welcoming her to our school at the start of Term 2.

PARENT TEACHER INTERVIEWS

Parent Teacher Interviews were conducted on Monday for all classes in Years K through to 6. It was wonderful to see so many parents taking the time to meet with their child’s teacher. I know that this time was both beneficial and valuable for everyone involved.

2/3B's Parent Teacher interviews will now be conducted on Monday, 3 April.

EASTER HAT PARADE

This year our Easter Hat Parade for P-2 will be on the last day of school Thursday, 6 April 2023. Parents and families are welcome to attend with the parade beginning at approximately 12:00pm. I would like to thank our parents and carers for their support in providing materials for the students to make their Easter hats. We are looking forward to having beautiful weather for our parade and welcoming our families into the school. Thank you to the Easter Hat Parade Committee and the P-2 teachers for organising this very popular event!

CROSS COUNTRY CARNIVAL

The Cross Country Carnival will be held on Thursday, April 27 at Geoff Shaw Oval. This is a compulsory event for all students in Years 3-6. Year 2 students who turn 8 this year may also participate. Students will walk to and from the venue, departing school at 9.15am. All students are reminded to bring their lunch and plenty of water to drink. There will be a meal deal for children to purchase before the day. Students are required to wear school uniform, a hat, sunscreen, and suitable footwear. Parents are very welcome to attend.

HIGH POTENTIAL AND GIFTED CLASS

Congratulations to Lara W, Logan M, Archibald T, Imogen C, Lucas G, Damon R, Alirah C, and Braxton K, who were successful in gaining placement in the 2023 High Potential and Gifted (HPAG) Class. The aim of this class is to bring together on a one day a week basis a group of academically gifted children. This group will be given an enrichment program designed to assist in optimising their learning in an extended environment. The HPAG class will be held at Balarang Public School commencing in Term 2, Week 2.

HARMONY DAY

Last Tuesday students Kindergarten through to Year 6 participated in Harmony Day. Students wore something orange which is the colour chosen to represent Harmony Week. Traditionally, it signifies social connection and meaningful conversations. It also relates to freedom of ideas and encouragement of mutual respect. Many Australians choose to wear something orange during Harmony Week to show their support for cultural diversity and an inclusive Australia. It was wonderful to see so many students dressed in this colour. Throughout the day students’ buddied up with their classes and participated in a harmony day activity. I would like to thank the Harmony Day Committee for their organisation of this event.

YEAR 5 OPPORTUNITY CLASS 2024

Online applications for Year 5 placement in an opportunity class in 2024 open on Thursday, 30 March and close on Monday, 15 May 2023.

Parents and carers must apply online between Thursday, 30 March and Monday, 15 May 2023 at https://education.nsw.gov.au/oc

You must use your own email address and not one belonging to your child.

Late applications cannot be accepted except where some very stringent conditions are met. The Opportunity Class Placement Test will be conducted on Thursday, 27 July.

SCHOOL PHOTOS

Early next term your child will receive their photo package from MSP Photography. Thank you to everyone who purchased a photo, certainly memories to cherish for years to come.

BACK TO SCHOOL VOUCHERS

The Back to School NSW Voucher Program provides 3 x $50 vouchers, totaling $150 for each eligible student.

The vouchers can be used:

Towards the cost of school uniforms, shoes, resource packs and excursions
At registered businesses
Before 30 June 2023

IMPORTANT DATES

Please be aware of the following:

LAST DAY OF TERM 1: Thursday, 6 April

STAFF RETURN TERM 2: Monday, 24 April

STUDENTS FIRST DAY OF TERM 2: Wednesday, 26 April

This will be my last newsletter as Relieving Principal as Jodie Niedermayer takes on the role as Principal of Oak Flats Public School at the beginning of Term 2. On a personal note, I would like to thank you for your support during my role as Relieving Principal. It has been a wonderful experience and together we have created an innovative, collaborative, and inclusive school that values learning, wellbeing and supports all students to reach their full potential.

It has been a privilege to lead Oak Flats Public School as your Relieving Principal and I look forward to seeing you all next term.

Best wishes for a happy and restful holiday!

Alice Wigny

Relieving Principal

SRC