Newsletter | Term 1 Week 3

Principal Message

Welcome to the 2025 School Year!

Welcome back to a new school year! We are pleased to see all our students settling into their classes smoothly and ready to engage with their learning. The strong sense of community at our school is evident, and it supports our focus on collaboration to enhance student outcomes.

As we move forward, we are committed to providing a productive environment where all students can succeed. We look forward to a year of growth and achievement together.

We have packed this first edition of our newsletter with a wealth of information, and we understand it’s a bit longer than usual. Maybe grab a cup of tea as you take a moment to read! Thank you for your ongoing support.

Floraville Public School - 2025 School Leaders

Left to right: Sophie - Prefect, Jett - Vice-Captain, Ahlia - Captain, Phoenix - Captain, Crystal - Prefect, Adelyn - Vice-Captain, Max - Prefect, Mila - Prefect.

Vale Wendy Miriel Sarich

11/03/1947—10/02/2025

Floraville Public School would like to extend our sincere appreciation and heartfelt thanks to Wendy Sarich for her extraordinary dedication and service over the past 40 years, along with her husband David. Throughout her tenure, Wendy has been a guiding light in our school community, passionately sharing her knowledge and love of scripture with countless students.

Her unwavering commitment to nurturing the spiritual growth of our children has not only enriched their lives but has also deeply impacted our entire school culture. Wendy's ability to connect with students, fostering an environment of curiosity and respect, is unparalleled.

As we reflect on her remarkable journey with us, we celebrate not just her years of service but the profound legacy she has built within our community. Wendy, your kindness, wisdom, and compassion will be cherished and remembered by all who had the privilege of learning from you. Thank you for your tireless efforts and the countless lives you have touched. You will always have a special place in the heart of Floraville Public School. 

2025 Staff

Our staff list for 2025 is below. We would like to officially welcome Rebecca McGraw, School Learning Support Officer (SLSO)  and Marguerite Feeney, School Administrative Officer (SAO), to our school this year.

Meet your child's teacher

Parents and carers are invited to attend our “Meet the Teacher” sessions, where you can meet your child’s teacher, learn about class and school routines, and ask any questions you may have. Please note that these sessions are not intended for one-on-one interviews; specific times for individual meetings will made available to all families later this term.

The sessions will begin in the hall with our Assistant Principal, after which you will be guided to individual classrooms. We look forward to seeing you there!

NAPLAN 2025

NAPLAN assessments for students in Year 3 and Year 5 will be held in March this year, providing valuable insights into student literacy and numeracy skills. These assessments are an important tool for tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement, both for individual students and for our school as a whole. We encourage parents and carers to support their children in preparing for NAPLAN by fostering a positive attitude towards the assessments. More information regarding the schedule and resources for preparation can be accessed via the links below.

Has your child come home saying that they have been working in a small group for NAPLAN? 

Our learning support teachers will be working closely with students in Year 3 and Year 5 in the lead-up to NAPLAN. They will be providing a vareity of small group sessions tailored to provide targeted support and preparation, helping students build confidence in their literacy and numeracy skills in the online assessment platform.

To best address the diverse needs of our students, these groups will be fluid and flexible, allowing for varied groupings across one or more sessions. This means that your child may work with different peers and teachers, depending on their specific learning requirements. Our goal is to ensure that every student receives the individualised attention they need to perform their best during the online assessments.

If you have any concerns or questions regarding your child’s participation in these sessions, we encourage you to reach out to the school. We value your partnership in supporting your child's learning journey and appreciate your ongoing involvement in their education as we work together to prepare for NAPLAN.

Thank you for your continued support as we strive to enhance learning outcomes for all our students.

Year 6 moving into High School 2026

We would like to advise families that the process for enroling your child in high school for 2026 will commence in March. This is an important milestone in your child’s educational journey, and we encourage you to stay informed about the requirements and timelines. As the date approaches, we will provide further information and guidance to help you navigate the enrolment process smoothly.

If you are intending to apply for specialist programs in high school, our school is here to help with this process for you. We collect any application forms directly from parents or students, our school will complete them collectively, and send them directly to the high school for processing. This approach helps ensure that all applications are submitted efficiently. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our school office.

Homework

As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of education, one topic that often stirs up lively discussions is homework. Many of us have fond (or not-so-fond) memories of late-night assignments and the quest for the perfect balance between schoolwork and family time. So, let’s take a light-hearted yet serious look at the evidence surrounding homework!

Research suggests that the effect size of homework can vary significantly, and it may not always lead to the academic boost we hope for, especially in primary school. In fact, the New South Wales Department of Education states that it is not compulsory for primary schools to set homework, which means less time juggling assignments and more time for family adventures, hobbies, and yes, even a little bit of downtime.

That said, we highly value the importance of daily reading. It’s a fantastic way to foster a love for learning and enhance literacy skills while snuggled up with a good book. So, while we determine, in collaboration and consultation with you, what homework may look like for our school, we encourage families to make reading a delightful part of your daily routine. Whether it's a bedtime story or an exciting chapter in the afternoon, the benefits of reading are well-documented and can ignite a lifelong passion for knowledge.

At the end of 2024, we surveyed families on a variety of aspects relating to school, homework included. We are in the process of putting together a survey for our families, specifically on homework, so that we can work together to find potential options and solutions. In the meantime, attached below are the results from the 2024 survey as they relate to homework, and what was been raised with our P&C at our first meeting for the year.

Let’s keep the conversation going and celebrate the joy that comes from both learning and family time!

Star Struck 2025

Floraville Public School is seeking to audition for four sections of Star Struck 2025. Please be aware that the numbers listed below are set by Star Struck:

Note: The Kindergarten - Year 2 Dance item will be in the first half of the show. Our Combined Dance - Kindergarten - Year 2 group will leave at interval. 

Whilst our audition is no guarantee of being accepted into Star Struck 2025, it is important to be aware of the commitment of Star Struck prior to giving your child permission to audition. 

There are fees associated with participating in Star Struck 2025. Fees will need to be paid in full prior to participating in school based preparation and rehearsals for Star Struck.

• Combined Choir - $85.50 per student
• Combined Dance Groups - $65.50 per student, with an additional costume fee, which is advised by Star Struck if our groups are successful. 

In addition to the fee commitment, children who wish to be considered for our Star Struck groups must be available on the following dates:

Our school will be advised if we are in Cast A or Cast B if successful at audition.

Look out for the School Bytes permission form regarding Star Struck as coordinating teachers will be getting ready to audition soon! For further information about Star Struck, please visit the link below:

Kirstie Yeo
Principal

Celebrating Success

As we welcome the 2025 school year, we take a moment to reflect on the remarkable start we've had. Our school community has settled in beautifully, especially with the arrival of 76 bright-eyed kindergarten students embarking on their first year of primary education. We are also excited to welcome 19 new students across various year groups, who add to the vibrancy of our school. Together, we look forward to a year filled with learning and growth.

This smooth transition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students. Many of them were able to familiarise themselves with their 2025 classes at the end of 2024, ensuring they returned to school feeling settled and prepared. This proactive approach has set a positive tone for the year ahead, fostering an environment where learning can thrive.

In our commitment to celebrating success, we are excited to announce that each newsletter will spotlight a student or a group of students achieving success at school.

This week, we celebrate 2S, who with Mrs Stanbridge, are diving into the world of polygons. Their engaging discussions about the features of 2D shapes showcase not only their academic growth but also their collaborative skills and enthusiasm for learning.

As we continue through the school year, we look forward to celebrating many more successes and highlighting the incredible achievements of our students.

Nick Garner
Deputy Principal

Learning Support

Meet the team!

L-R: Nick Garner (Deputy Principal), Carly Erich (Assistant Principal), Dominique Gee (Assistant Principal), Gabrielle Thacker, Phoebe Burchill (School Counsellor)

What does the LST do?

Each school has its own Learning and Support Team (LST), which may vary in composition. At Floraville Public School, our LST includes the staff members listed above, and this year we are pleased to have our school counsellor, Phoebe Burchill, with us for five days every fortnight. This team gathers information and provides recommendations to teachers for students who require adjustments to access the curriculum and achieve their educational objectives. The team plays a key role in addressing the specific needs of students with disabilities and additional learning and support requirements. Our Learning Support Team encourages collaboration with parents, carers, caseworkers, pre-school settings, and external agencies. We would also like to express our gratitude to our school community and the P&C for funding the acquisition of new sensory tools at the end of 2024. These tools have already been extensively utilised throughout the school to support our students with sensory needs.

LST teaching focus areas for Term 1

Weeks 3-7:

• Kindergarten: Classroom learning support
• Year 1 & 2: Literacy and Numeracy Support
• Year 3: Reading and Numeracy support; navigating the NAPLAN online assessments
• Year 5: Reading and Numeracy support; navigating the NAPLAN online assessments
• Year 5 & 6: Social Emotional Learning support

Weeks 8-11:

• Kindergarten: Classroom learning support
• Year 1 & 2: Literacy and numeracy support
• Year 4 & 6: Literacy and numeracy support
• Year 5 & 6: Social Emotional Learning support

If you have a child in Year 3 or Year 5 this year, they will be completing NAPLAN assessments in Week 7 of Term 1. Learning and Support teachers and classroom teachers will be spending time with every student to ensure they have some time dedicated to learning how to navigate the online assessment platform prior to Week 7.

What is the ‘Seasons for Growth’ program?

Seasons for Growth is a small group education program that supports children to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes to understand and respond well to experiences of change, loss and grief. Seasons for Growth supports connection with others, fostering emotional literacy and resilience as a pathway to improved social and emotional wellbeing. The Seasons for Growth program will resume with the first intake of students in Term 2. Please contact the school via email or call Ms Thacker or Ms Yeo if you think this program may benefit your child. Further information can be found at https://www.mackillopseasons.org.au/programs/seasons-for-growth-children-and-young-people/

Helping your child with literacy and numeracy at home

The Department of Education has created resources for parents, carers and families of children in the early years of their school education. The activities support the important learning that happens at home. They are designed for you to have fun with your child and to help them have a great start to school. Visit https://education.nsw.gov.au/teaching-and-learning/curriculum/literacy-and-numeracy/resources-for-parents-and-carers/helping-your-child-with-literacy-and-numeracy-at-home

Contact us

If you would like more information regarding our learning support processes, please contact the school:

Email: floraville-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au  | Phone: (02) 49454845

Student Representative Council

In 2025 we are adjusting our student voice program (previously named Parliament) to a Student Representative Council (SRC).

The SRC will be comprised of 2 students per class from Years 2-6. These students can self-nominate and the class vote at the beginning of semester. The School Captains, Vice Captains and Prefects are the SRC Executive and will be member for the entire Year. 

Next Week all students will be asked to self-nominate in their class and the class will vote on who they believe would be the most suitable candidate to represent their class. The will be 2 meetings per term or on a needs basis. Classes will be asked to vote again in Semester 2.

The purpose of the SRC:

The SRC serves as an effective platform to ensure that the student voice and agency is heard and represents the entire student population. Led by the School Captains, Vice Captains, and Prefects from Year 6, with support from the Executive Team, the SRC has the following roles:

• Student Voice: The SRC provides a platform for students actively participating in decision-making at school on things which shape their educational experience, expressing their unique needs and challenges. By ensuring class representation, the SRC makes certain that student perspectives are considered in school policies and programs.
• Feedback: The SRC serves as a voice for students, providing insights into the social-emotional climate of the school and suggesting improvements or initiatives that can benefit all students.
• Skill and Community development: (SRC) plays a vital role in promoting social-emotional development among students by fostering essential skills such as teamwork, communication, and leadership through a variety of engaging activities and initiatives. By encouraging active participation, the SRC not only helps students from all year levels develop these crucial skills but also cultivates a strong sense of community and belonging within the school. This inclusive environment allows students to build positive relationships and enhances their leadership capabilities, preparing them for future endeavours both within and beyond the school context.

School News

Best Start Kindergarten Assessment

Within the first five full weeks of the 2025 school year, Kindergarten students will be engaging in the BEST START assessment.

Best Start Kindergarten Assessment identifies student’s literacy and numeracy skills on entry to Kindergarten. The assessment is conducted in line with existing school practices and builds upon teaching and learning programs that support students in the transition to school.

This assessment provides teachers with a baseline understanding of your child's literacy and numeracy skills. Parents will receive a copy of the assessment report and are welcome to discuss this report with their child’s teacher. 

School Photographs - Tuesday 4 & Wednesday 5 March

Sport

 Swimming Carnival 2025

A reminder that money and permission for the annual Swimming Carnival at Speers Point pool on Friday 21 February 2025 is due Monday 17 February 2025. All students should wear Full sport uniform (sporting house colour shirt) including hat and be at school by 8:30am. Buses will leave at 8:45am from school and depart the pool at 2:30pm.

Sports Nominations Form

A reminder to all families from Years 3 to 6, to sit with their child/children to discuss and fill in the 2025 Sporting Opportunities survey emailed to families Term 4, Week 9 2024. This information is used to help the sports committee select student to represent the school at Eastlake PSSA trials and other sporting opportunities during the year.

Eastlake Rugby League Trials

Using the information collected in the survey seeking interest from students and families (Years 4-6) for sporting opportunities in 2024, Mr Cox will be asking for names for the Eastlake PSSA Rugby League Trials. The school can only nominate a maximum of 4 players for each age group (12ys and 11yrs). The Sports Committee will use student experience outside of school and knowledge of the students in school teams to make final decisions.

Hunter PSSA Hockey Trials

Using the information collected in the survey seeking interest from students and families (Years 5-6) for sporting opportunities in 2024, Mrs Melling is collecting names for the Hunter PSSA Hockey. If your child has interest in Hunter Hockey Trials, please see Mrs Melling or Mr Garner.

School Cricket Team

Mr Garner is in the process of organising our 1^st PSSA Cricket Knockout game against Marks Point – Mr Garner will be trialing interested students for the school team in the coming weeks.

If parents are unsure if we have received a child name for a particular sport please email floraville-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

P&C Community News

Welcome to P&C 2025!

Welcome back to the school community for 2025. We are excited to start a new school year with fresh ideas and energy!

First P&C meeting for 2025 wrap-up

The first meeting was held this week and was very productive. We discussed plans for this year including:

Fundraising events 
Colour Run is coming in 2025! Harmony Day tie-dye t-shirts will also be back and ready to order very shortly, and we are adding tie-dye socks this year given the popularity of this fundraiser last year. The amazing Easter raffle, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day stalls will be back. We are looking into doing things a little differently this year with events and looking into sponsorship options to engage our wider school and local community.

Enrichment Tree 2025
We will be advertising the new endeavour of the Enrichment Tree very soon also – a virtual tree full of items to benefit our kids directly, and this will replace the voluntary contribution fees for 2025. Watch this space over the coming weeks.

Canteen update 
Welcome back to Margaret and the canteen team. Thank you to the 26 volunteers who have signed up to volunteer in the canteen this year, including 4 new Kindergarten families. We still need to fill some Tuesday and Friday volunteer spots. Please get in touch if you can help for a few hours in the morning – you’ll be provided lunch and have a great time. Easter lunch bags and Harmony Week lunch meal deals will be coming out later this term. There will be a few small price increases on the menu this year. We try to keep costs as low as possible in the canteen, however, supply costs have increased for particular items. 

Second hand-uniform shop update 
This has been a big success so far! Thank you to everyone for kindly donating great quality uniforms and thank you to those parents who have supported us by purchasing items. Lynne has done a great job setting everything up, with help from Karen and Stephanie as well. We have raised almost $500 in our opening week, which is fabulous. The next opening date for the uniform shop will be Monday 24/2/25 from 2:45-3:15pm. We are still accepting donations – these can be taken to the donation tub in the foyer of the front office during school hours.

Principal update 
It was great to hear about proposals for a student representative council, the commencement of the speech pathology in schools (SPinS) program, and have a robust discussion around homework.

P&C Website 
I have proposed the development of a Floraville P&C website. This will allow us a space to share what is happening with P&C for those who are not on social media, give a platform for taking sales for events and fundraisers, processing 2^nd hand uniform shop sales, and have volunteer sign-ups for events. It will also save on money handling for volunteers and save on paper from printing flyers and order forms. A draft of the website was shown at the meeting and all attendees were in favour of proceeding so keep an eye out over the coming weeks for our new website too!

P&C Annual General Meeting
As you can see, the P&C plays a vital role in the functioning of a school. We help to engage the community and provide crucial links between families and the school. The P&C is responsible for many of the fun things that happen at school during the year, which our kids love! Through the actions of our P&C, we operate a canteen, reduce the costs to families for school hats, run a 2^nd hand uniform shop, apply for grants, and coordinate multiple fundraising events each year. This allows us to donate vital funds and resources back to the school that directly supports student education at Floraville Public School. But all these roles require people's power! We NEED more engagement in our P&C to make these things happen – in a school with almost 500 students, a handful of people simply cannot sustain all the amazing things the P&C does. The more people we have, the better we represent and engage our whole school community. So, I am putting the call out now to think over the next few weeks, how can you be involved? Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be on Tuesday 11^th March. All P&C positions will be declared vacant at the AGM and new nominations put forward for:

• President
• Vice President (Fundraising Coordinator)
• Vice President (Canteen Coordinator)
• Secretary
• Treasurer
• Assistant Treasurer
• OOSH Parent Representative
• Band Parent Representative
• Fundraising sub-committee (5 positions)
• Canteen sub-committee (5 positions)
• and Uniform coordinator

Many of our committee are not re-electing this year or have moved on to high school, so we need everyone to strongly consider putting a hand up for a role. If we don’t fill the roles, there will be no P&C, no fun extra events, no canteen, no second-hand uniform shop, etc. Everyone is valued and we’d love to see you if you think you can help. If you aren’t sure what P&C roles involve, please send us a message or email fpspresident@gmail.com. A thriving P&C is very valuable for a school community and we have achieved so many incredible things every year for our school. To nominate for a position, please go to your School Bytes account, select “Forms”, and scroll down to the “P&C Nomination Form”.

Communication

Please follow the official P&C Facebook page to keep up to date with the latest P&C information and events. Our page is www.facebook.com/p.c.floraville. If you need to get in touch with the P&C, you can send us a message on our Facebook page, or send an email to fpspresident@gmail.com. 

Wishing everyone a great start to 2025,

Amanda Bailey
P&C President on behalf of the P&C Committee