Principal's Message to the School Community
School Council Report to the Community
Dear Kyneton Primary School Community
We are thrilled to share some exciting news regarding the programs and projects being undertaken at Kyneton Primary School. On behalf of the KPS School Council, we would like to update you on a significant initiative we are involved in.
We are proud to announce that Kyneton Primary School has been selected to participate in the Macedon Ranges Primary School Mental Health Pilot, also known as the Branch Out Program. This program is specifically designed for students in years 5 and 6, and its primary objective is to equip students, teachers, and families with effective strategies to address and manage mental health concerns.
We are confident that the combination of the Berry Street Education Module training, School Assemblies, and the daily reminders will create a strong foundation for fostering well-being and emotional growth among our students. By nurturing their social and emotional skills, we are equipping them with essential life skills that will positively impact their academic success and overall well-being.
We extend our appreciation to our dedicated staff members who have embraced this training opportunity and are committed to providing a nurturing environment for our students. Together, as a united school community, we can create an environment where every student feels supported, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Our Grounds and Facilities subcommittee have obtained a number of quotes and are awaiting Consultancy Documentation and Assessment Reports which serve as a valuable tool in helping them make informed decisions about the repairs to the oval and enabling them to secure the necessary funding to complete the project.
Introducing a Soup Friday during the Winter Term is a great idea from the Canteen Committee! It's an initiative that can bring warmth and comfort to students during the colder months.
We are actively seeking feedback from parents, involving you in the decision-making process and ensuring your opinions are heard. We hope this fosters a sense of community and engagement within the school.
Our Sustainability Committee will proceed with the following ideas.
- Ride/Scooter/Walk 2 School Focus: Transitioning from an annual event to a termly occurrence is a great idea to promote sustainable transportation habits. Encourage students and parents to choose active transportation options like riding bikes, scooters, or walking to school regularly. The increased presence of bikes and scooters at the school after these events indicates a positive response. Consider establishing a dedicated team or committee to plan and organize these events each term.
- Plastic Free July: Promoting plastic waste reduction in lunch boxes is an excellent way to raise awareness about sustainability. Encourage students and staff to minimize the amount of plastic waste they generate during this month. The idea of having studios keep count of their plastic waste and rewarding the one with the least amount is a creative and engaging approach. Free dress day or a disco can serve as incentives to motivate participation.
- Resource Smarts Schools: Completing modules for the Resource Smarts Schools program is a proactive step towards sustainability education. This program helps schools implement sustainable practices, reduce waste, and conserve resources. Work with the committee to prioritize and complete the modules, ensuring that each step is thoroughly understood and implemented. This will help create a more environmentally conscious school community.
By focusing on these sustainable initiatives and fostering a sense of responsibility for the environment, the Sustainability Committee can inspire positive change and contribute to a more eco-friendly school community. It is wonderful to hear that Kyneton Primary School has a supportive and engaged community! I would like to encourage parents and grandparents to become involved in the school community. It is a fantastic way to strengthen the bond between home and school and create a positive educational environment for the children. We have a variety of opportunities available at the school, ranging from regular commitments (weekly or monthly) to one time events. It can be assisting in the classroom, at lunchtime in the canteen, at Breakfast club, as part of one of our Working Bee’s or joining the Parents and Friends association.
Please feel free to contact me if you have ideas and would like to contribute in fostering a sense of community and creating a positive impact on the educational experience of the students at Kyneton Primary School.
Regards
Sarah Lockhart
School President