Principal Report
Dear families,
We are fast approaching the end of the year. It feels like it has been a year of plan B's, C's and even Z's. I want to share our combined thanks for the patience you have shown us through the last few weeks as we have returned to school. I know some of our decisions have not always aligned with what we have offered in the past, or with the advice coming from Government sources, but we have made our decision based on a strong desire to keep school open for our community, while offering the very best opportunities we can.
We did not manage to run Swimming but we quickly replaced it with Bike Education. Thanks Stevie and those around that have helped.
We did not manage a grade 34 camp. We have put together a fun few days at school for those students. We have booked camp for next year and can't wait to take the students away, many for the first time. Thanks team 34.
We have got a sleepover for the grade 2s at school, with the grade 1s joining in the fun during the day. Thanks team 12.
We have got a graduation coming up. The 56 team will be sending invites home this week along with some changes to the format thanks to your feedback. We also have a fun final few days for the students in grade 56. Thanks Grade 56.
Friday we had advice shared with us that would limit the fun, by Monday this had changed and our plans can go ahead in full for everyone. Sorry if this caused any concerns over the weekend.
I am unsure at this point what vaccinations are planned for younger children. I know a few of you have asked if this would be something that would happen at school. If a vaccine ever was offered in school time, it would be with your consent. I will keep you posted with information when it is released.
Hats and Sunscreen
We are trying to encourage outside play as much as possible. I am reminding you again that hats need to be worn for children to play outdoors in term 4 and 1. They also need sunscreen. We are not allowed to share this at school due to allergies.
Building work
Our building work will be wrapped up this year and the front gates fitted again. We have been extra vigilant while work has been happening. We will plan working bees to plant the entrance out next year.
New Sport Cover
We are through to the next round for a decision on whether we receive a covered sport area for the Quad. This will help us on wet and hot days as well as offer us a place that the whole school can gather outside.
If you like to help please email Harriet Shing Labour MP to share your support
harriet.shing@parliament.vic.gov.au
or Bridget Vallence MP
Bridget.Vallence@parliament.vic.gov.au
Both parties have been very supportive of us receiving the grant, especially in planning for our return from COVID.
School NAPLAN results
The students have shown how good they are with fantastic NAPLAN results in grade 3 and 5. I have attached a PDF that was shared with School Council last week with the level results listed.
Reading, Grammar and Numeracy are a strength. With the results for reading in grade 3 and 5 being much better than the state levels. Consistency in spelling across the school is something we need to address and we will be introducing a new spelling approach for 2022. Engaging children in writing as they move through the school is a big challenge and one we are ready to take on next year. Thank you for the great participation rates for our children and to the teachers and staff in school for the ongoing support they give children every day.
Have a wonderful week.
Craig