Principal's Update - 11th September

Welcome

Celebrating the Arts Festival

Tonight we come together as a school community to celebrate our annual Arts Festival. The arts hold a significant place in the life of a school committed to educating the whole child, and we recognise the important role they play in nurturing healthy and well-rounded individuals.

From the earliest of times and First Peoples of this country, art has been an expression of identity, a record of culture, and a way of shaping who we are. The arts give us a unique medium to imagine, explore and connect with others in ways that words alone cannot achieve.

The arts are crucial to a successful education because they invite risk-taking, play and exploration of ideas. Whether through painting, music, drama, dance or poetry, students learn to push beyond what feels safe and familiar, building confidence and resilience in the process. They are encouraged to think creatively, test possibilities, and embrace the joy of discovery.

Through the arts, children make connections across disciplines. Mathematics and music, for instance, are deeply linked through rhythm, pattern and structure. Language comes alive in poetry, where words carry sound, shape and imagery in ways that inspire new thinking. Each form of artistic expression helps students to see the world from fresh perspectives, and to develop a deeper appreciation for culture, communication and meaning.

Most importantly, the arts allow young people to express themselves authentically, to share their stories, and to form connections with others. In doing so, they strengthen their sense of belonging and their ability to contribute positively to the world around them.

This evening we celebrate the incredible creativity and talent of our students as they showcase their work with families and friends. A heartfelt thank you goes to all those who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to transform our school into a vibrant gallery. The countless hours invested have been well worth it, and we look forward to sharing in this special occasion together.

Child Protection Week

This week also marks Child Protection Week, with the theme: “Every conversation matters: Shifting conversations to action.” Last week, we held two whole-school gatherings focusing on what we can each do to support those around us—both in terms of child protection and anti-bullying.

Our MHIPS Officer (Mental Health in Primary Schools), Sarah Jones, has been leading important work in amplifying student voice. For many years, our classrooms have used tools like feelings jars and cards to help students identify how they are tracking emotionally throughout the day. What has been missing is the ability to record and recognise patterns over time. To strengthen this, we are now introducing new approaches that allow students to continue expressing their emotions while also enabling teachers to track this data, providing deeper insight into student wellbeing.

School Pick Up Routines

As part of child safety, it is also worthwhile discussing safe pick-up arrangements with your child, particularly if there is a change of plans. If alternate arrangements are made, please ensure teachers are informed. We also ask parents not to ‘help out’ by collecting other students without prior notification to both families and staff, as this helps us to keep every child safe.

Talking with your child about these routines doesn’t need to be a frightening conversation. Instead, it can be framed positively - about knowing who is coming to collect them, what to do if there’s a change, and the importance of always checking in with a trusted adult at school before leaving. A simple conversation can go a long way in helping children feel secure and confident.

Parents can support this by:

Confirming pick-up plans in the morning if there are changes, so your child knows what to expect.

Letting the school know early if there is any change to the usual routine.Reminding children to wait in agreed areas and never leave with someone unless it has been discussed beforehand.

Encouraging open communication so children feel comfortable speaking up if they are unsure or plans seem different.

These steps not only promote safety but also build children’s sense of independence and trust in the adults around them. Together, we can create a safe and supportive environment for every child.

Footy Colours Day

Social and Emotional Learning

As part of our broader work in Social Emotional Learning and Relationships and Sexuality Education, our senior students recently participated in a cyber safety presentation exploring safe online behaviour and the risks of the digital world—an ever-present challenge for young people today. Early next term, they will also be working with Helen Christensen, Educational Officer: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, to engage in discussions around cultural sensitivity and racism.

These initiatives are vital in supporting students to grow as respectful, resilient and empathetic individuals.

P&F Musical Bingo

Home Challenge

This week, we encourage families to take part in our home challenge:
Ask your child - who are your five trusted friends or adults? Who could you talk to if you needed help?

Conversations like these can strengthen connections and build the networks of support that every young person needs.

Community

Important Dates - Term 3

Please refer to our School Calendar for more detailed and up to date event information.

Important Dates - Term 4

Please refer to our School Calendar for more detailed and up to date event information.