Term 2

Welcome back to Term 2 - I trust that all members of our school community were able to enjoy a safe and relaxing holiday. It is incredible to reflect that Term 1 was the first complete, uninterrupted term that our students have experienced since 2019.

We have a busy term ahead both in terms of student learning as well as a gradual return to a number of extra-curricular activities and programs that have not been possible for the past couple of years. These include but are not limited to:

NAPLAN for Year 3 & 5 students
The reintroduction of a modified Kitchen Garden Program
The Run Club
SRC activities and events
Buddies
School assemblies
School tours for prospective families

Coles Blackburn North Opening

Coles Blackburn North have generously donated $4.000 to support our Kitchen Garden Program, as well as the provision of a Buddies Seat made from recycled materials. During the first week of the holidays, Fiona Kirby, myself and a number of our Old Orchard students participated in the official opening of the store and the students were handed the cheque. A feature of the ceremony was the Welcome to Country by Stan, including an incredible performance on the didgeridoo.

Mothers’ Day Stall

Thank-you to everyone involved in a very successful Mothers’ Day Stall on Friday. Illness meant that a couple of our organisers were unable to attend on the day, however the staff went ahead smoothly and I’m certain that our school mums and other special people who receive gifts next Sunday will be incredibly grateful and appreciative.

ANZAC Day

The timing of the school holidays made it difficult for our staff and students to engage in the commemoration of ANZAC Day as we would like to. However, many of our classes will have discussed the significance of the day and how the sacrifice of so many service men and women continues to enable us to live largely safe and privileged lives, particularly when we see some of the events happening in other parts of the world. Our young people are incredibly well informed on the significance of ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day and understand that the purpose is not to glorify war and hostility, but to appreciate peace, tolerance and understanding.

Students James and Max Borthwick

attended the Dawn Service at the Shrine of Remembrance.

‘Pupil Free Days’

You will have received a communication advising of key dates this year when students are not required to attend school. Please note these dates in your calendars.

Friday May 13th

Pupil Free Day #3

Tuesday June 14th

(following the Queen’s Birthday Public Holiday)

Professional Practice Day

(*for this term only, all schools will be conducting PPD’s on a common day of their choosing for their particular school – students are not required to attend school)

Friday August 12th

Pupil Free Day #4

VALE Ray Manley

Our deepest condolences are extended to Assistant Principal, Rachel Barnes and her family following the recent sad passing of Rachel’s father Ray and also Rachel’s beloved Granny, aged 99. RIP.

Kind regards

Duncan

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