From the Principal's Desk

What a lovely start to Term 3 😊

After an extra-long holiday I have been excited to return to work and reconnect with all our wonderful students and their teachers.  I have however enjoyed the opportunity to share some of my special holiday highlights with the students during my classroom conversations with them over the last two weeks.  We have talked about the islands of Hawaii, how they were formed, and the fact that there are still active volcanoes; and one of the highlights of my trip, getting to swim with the Hawaiian green turtles. Lots of them!  I think many of our students and teacher might have that on their own bucket list! 

NAIDOC Week

National NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia in the first week of July each year (Sunday to Sunday), to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth. Because this special week falls in our school holidays, Springvale Rise Primary School plans NAIDOC Week activities for Term 3 Week 1. This year’s theme was “For our Elders”.  

Bobbi Lockyer, a proud Ngarluma, Kariyarra, Nyulnyul and Yawuru artist, born and based on Kariyarra Country in Port Hedland, was the winner of the prestigious National NAIDOC Week Poster Competition for 2023. She is quoted as saying:  “Where there is knowledge there are our Elders. Our Elders paved the pathways for us, taught us our knowledge, our history, they passed down their art, stories and wisdom. Our Elders are the foundation of our communities and role models for our children. With this poster I wanted to showcase how important our Elders are in passing down traditions and culture to our children and future.” 

Foundation 2024 – New Enrolments 

To help us with planning for 2024 we are asking families with children who will be starting school next year to enrol before the end of August. (Everybody who does enrol in the next few weeks will receive a FREE school t-shirt in their pack later in the year and go into a draw to win a special prize.) And don’t forget to spread the word . . .If you know of any friends or neighbours who intend to enrol their children at our school (or would like a school tour) please encourage them to phone the office.  Enrolment forms are available at the office on both sites and interpreters are also available to assist with translation.

Stay safe, take care and keep smiling.

Mrs Debbie Cottier

Principal