Principal's Report
National Reconciliation Week
This week is National Reconciliation Week (Saturday 27th May to Saturday 3rd June). This year's theme 'be a voice for generations' asks each and every one of us to use our words and our actions to create a better, more just, and equitable Australia for all. National Reconciliation Week is a time for Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements. Further information about National Reconciliation Week this year is available on the Reconciliation Australia website. https:// www.reconciliation.org.au/our-work/nationalreconciliation-week/
Attitudes to School Survey (AtoSS)
The AtoSS is currently underway, with our students in Years 4, 5 and 6 getting an opportunity to provide feedback to the school. This is an annual student survey offered by the Department of Education and Training to assist us to gain an understanding of students' perceptions and experience of school. The survey will be completed by the end of next week. Participation in this survey is voluntary.
Education Week
Thanks to those families that were able to visit our school on Friday 19th May to help celebrate 151 years of public education. I'm sure you enjoyed spending some time with your child/children. Having a strong partnership with our families has always been a strength of SGPS.
Mid-Year Student Reports and Student Absences / Late Arrivals
As absences are included in Student Reports, parents are asked to verify any outstanding unexplained absences/late arrivals.
Prep Enrolments 2024
If you have a child who will be attending Spring Gully Primary School in Prep next year, you are most welcome to enrol now.
Prep enrolments for 2024 close on Friday, 28th July
Parents will be notified of the outcome of their application within a week of the closing date.
Orientation Program Dates for 2024 Preps
Tuesday, 21st November – 9.00am-10.00am
Tuesday, 28th November – 9.00am-10.00am
Tuesday, 5th December – 9.00am-10.00am
Tuesday, 12th December – 9.00am-11.30pm
Winter Health – Beating the Bugs
In Australia, our influenza 'flu' season typically runs from May to October, usually peaking in August. It is just not possible to stop all bugs from spreading at school, however, a lot of illnesses can be prevented and controlled simply by practising good hygiene.
Handy hygiene tips for you and your family
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
- Throw used tissues in plastic-lined rubbish bins
- Wash your hands with soap and water, preferably warm water if available
- Reduce the spread of germs by avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth
Further information on influenza is available at the Better Health Channel (https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au).
What can you do to prevent the spread of infectious diseases?
The three main ways of preventing the spread of infection are:
1. Remind your child of effective hygiene methods.
2. Keep your child home when they are unwell. Your doctor will let you know if your child has an 'excludable' condition. You will need to advise the school as soon as possible and keep your child home for the length of time that your doctor advises.
3. Ensure your child's immunisations are up to date. Do you know when you should keep your child home from school?
The Department of Health and Human Services outline the minimum period of exclusion from school for various infectious diseases. To find out more about the minimum period of exclusion for infectious diseases, search online for: School Exclusion Table.
End of Term 2 – Early School Finish and Assembly
Term 2 will conclude at 2.15pm on Friday, 23rd June. Please make appropriate arrangements for the safe collection of your child/ren due to the earlier dismissal time.
There will be a brief assembly at 2.00pm in the Hub.
Bus Travellers – End of Term Pick Up
The school bus will be collecting our students an hour earlier than normal on the last day of term. This means that the bus is scheduled to arrive at our school at approximately 2.45pm on Friday, 23rd June.