Newsletter | Term 1 Week 8
Principal Message
Harmony Day
I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the significance of this special occasion and the values it embodies. Harmony Day, which we celebrated today, is a day dedicated to acknowledging and embracing the rich cultural diversity that makes our school community unique.
At Floraville Public School, we pride ourselves on fostering an inclusive environment where every student feels valued and respected. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and appreciating the various cultures that contribute to our community.
Throughout the week leading up to Harmony Day, students engaged in various activities designed to promote cultural awareness and understanding.
Thank you to the P&C who have some dedicated members who have worked tirelessly to create a huge number of orange tie-dyed shirts and matching socks. Let us come together to celebrate our diversity and work towards a future filled with harmony and unity.
SRC Meeting
What a thrilling experience it was to attend our very first Student Representative Council (SRC) meeting! I was impressed by the enthusiasm and energy that filled the room as our school captains stepped up to showcase their outstanding leadership and communication skills in guiding the discussions.
It was great to see so many students from various grades come together, each representing their peers with pride and purpose. Their voices and ideas reflected the diverse perspectives that make up our school community. A particular highlight were the representatives from 2N, who arrived armed with a fantastic fundraising idea that resonated deeply with their class. Their passion and commitment to making a meaningful impact truly inspired us all!
As we move forward, I encourage all students to continue sharing their thoughts and ideas through the SRC. Their contributions are invaluable and I am excited to see what remarkable initiatives our SRC will bring to life this year!
You will notice below an added section of the Newsletter under School News - SRC News – this is the SRC in action and is developed by our students.
Year 6 Canberra Excursion
I am thrilled to report that our Year 6 Canberra Excursion was a remarkable success, showcasing the outstanding behaviour and engagement of our students, who truly exemplified the expectations of Floraville Public School.
During their time in our nation's capital, students delved into the workings of democracy and gained a deeper understanding of how our country is run. They had an exciting visit to the reptile zoo, where they interacted with a variety of reptiles, from snakes to crocodiles. The adventure continued at the Australian Institute of Sport, where students toured world-class facilities and had the chance to test their skills in the interactive zone.
I would like to extend our thanks to Mr Cox and Mr Faulkner for their dedication as Year 6 teachers. Their commitment to our students and the value they place on these growth and learning experiences is greatly appreciated. A special thanks also goes to Mrs Blake and Miss Huish, who, despite not being Year 6 teachers, offered their time to support our students during this enriching experience.
Star Struck – 2025
We are excited to share that we have received notification that Floraville PS has been accepted into Star Struck 2025 – Remixed! Star Struck has informed us that, due to the overwhelming number of applications, they have worked hard to be as inclusive as possible, ensuring opportunities for many students and schools.
Floraville has had 4 different groups accepted, with size limits:
- Aboriginal/ Torres Strait Islander Dance – 12 students
- Choir – 21 students
- Dance – 16 students
- K-2 Dance – 16 students
- Possibly – additional individual performers
It is great news that the school is set to be a part of Star Struck with 65 students from Floraville PS who will make up the mammoth production that is Star Struck. We acknowledge that not all students who expressed their interest in being a member of these Star Struck groups will be able to participate, we had 180+ students who expressed interest in these 4 groups.
Star Struck is a significant commitment for students, families, and our school staff, who work tirelessly to ensure that our students are given this opportunity. Thank you to Mrs Blake, Mrs Lindsay, Miss Huish, and Mr Faulkner, who have been working hard to ensure that our students are afforded this opportunity.
If your child is selected for one of these groups but is unable to make the commitment, please let the school know as soon as possible so we can offer the opportunity to another student.
Kiss and Ride
Our Kiss and Ride zone plays a crucial role in providing a convenient and efficient experience for families during both drop-off and pick-up times. To help maintain a smooth flow of traffic, we kindly ask parents to utilise the available space in the zone.
Please refrain from stopping at the beginning of the Kiss and Ride area if there is space available in front of your vehicle. Moving forward allows other cars to enter the zone and helps keep the process quick and efficient for everyone.
As we strive to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all our students and families, we kindly ask for your cooperation during pick-up and drop-off times at the front of the school and in our surrounding streets. Adhering to road rules not only keeps our children safe but also sets a positive example for them.
Mr Garner
Principal Rel.
Celebrating Success - Year 2 Measurement
In an exciting showcase of learning and achievement, our Year 2 students have demonstrated remarkable progress in their measurement lessons this term. With engaging activities and hands-on experiences, students have not only grasped essential measurement concepts but have also shown creativity and enthusiasm in their learning.
Throughout the term, Year 2 students explored measurement concepts, including length, weight, and volume. Using a range of tools—from rulers and scales to measuring cups—students measured objects around the classroom and ventured outdoors for practical applications. This real-world approach has made learning both relevant and enjoyable.
As we celebrate the achievements of our Year 2 students, we encourage them to continue exploring measurement in everyday life. Whether they are measuring ingredients for a recipe or comparing the heights of friends, these skills will serve them well as they progress in their education.
We are incredibly proud of our students and look forward to seeing their continued success in future lessons! Keep up the fantastic work, Year 2!
Miss Katen
Deputy Principal Rel.
Awabakal Word of the Week
Early Stage 1
Resilience
Students are learning about Resilience.
At Floraville Public School, this means students are expected to;
- Bounce back
- Reflect and reset
- Own your actions
What are we learning in Kindergarten?
Literacy
Here are the sounds we know, and the sounds we are learning.
Remember we are looking for the sound the letter makes - not its name. How many words can you make from the sounds you know?
Numeracy
In Kindergarten we have started reviews. Reviews in kindergarten maths are valuable because they reinforce foundational skills, boost confidence, and help children develop a strong understanding of mathematical concepts through consistent practice and engagement. Ask your child about reviews and what they are learning. How quickly can you say the number after or before? How quickly can you name a shape?
History
We hope you are enjoying the class history journal. Remember to keep it for a couple of nights, complete the task and then send it back to school for the next family!
Science
Can you talk about things that move? How do they move? Why can some things slide and not roll?
We are looking forward to meeting with you to discuss your child’s growth and goals at our upcoming Parent - Teacher Interviews.
Nhunda kumba kumba (thank you and goodbye)
Mr Myers
Early Stage 1 Assistant Principal Rel.
Stage 1
English
Mathematics
In Year 1 students will be developing their knowledge, understanding, and skills in the attributes and features of two-dimensional shapes. Students are provided opportunities to:
- explore how shapes can be made and classify shapes based on their attributes
- manipulate shapes and objects to halve them in different ways.
- create new shapes and explore how two-dimensional (2D) shapes can be classified into different categories according to their features
- create linear patterns with shapes and make designs which have a line of symmetry
In Year 2 students are developing their knowledge, skills and understanding of how new shapes can be made by joining (combining) and breaking apart (partitioning) existing shapes. Students are provided opportunities to:
- explore how shapes can be made and create new
- recognise how two-dimensional (2D) shapes can be classified
- create linear patterns and designs with symmetry
- measure areas using uniform informal units
- recognise, sort, and describe the features of three-dimensional (3D) objects
Personal Development/Health
Students will be learning about different forms of communication and how they help us express our feelings. These include verbal and non verbal communication, how body language shows feelings and how clear communication is important as it helps us understand each other better.
Mrs Martinez
Stage 1 Assistant Principal
Stage 2
There has been plenty of learning taking place in Stage 2 classrooms.
In science, we are learning about living things and life cycles. At the moment, class 2/3K has a brooding pen in their room. Students can observe the process of chickens hatching firsthand, fostering a deeper understanding of biology and animal care.
I was excited to hear some fantastic stories in class 4L and 3A this week. Students are creating imaginative texts with rising tension. Using descriptive language builds suspense and explaining challenges or obstacles faced by characters helps to engage the reader. There are definitely some future authors in Stage 2.
4/5D were eager to display their spelling skills when I visited their classroom. Breaking words into syllables and phonemes is part of their weekly routine. Students were also skilful at creating new words from a base word. Some examples for discover were: discovered, discovering, undiscovered, discovery and discoverer.
Class 3/4O have been learning about length and how to correctly use measuring tools such as rulers and tape measures. Here are some tips for using a ruler accurately:
- Start by placing it flat on the surface you are measuring, ensuring it is aligned with the object or line you want to measure.
- Hold the ruler steady with one hand and use the other hand to mark the measurement.
- Make sure to read the measurement from the correct side of the ruler. Most rulers have both centimetres and millimetres, so choose the one appropriate for your task.
- Always start measuring from the '0' mark on the ruler, as this ensures accuracy.
Try practising using a ruler at home to either measure the length of an object or draw a line of a particular length.
Congratulations to our Year 3 students for their outstanding effort when completing NAPLAN assessments this past week. Their hard work, determination, and focus is to be commended.
Representative sports trials and Harmony Day on Friday will round out another big week at Floraville Public School.
Mr O'Shannessy
Stage 2 Assistant Princpal
Stage 3
It has been an action-packed few weeks for all Stage 3 classes. Year 6 students recently attended the annual excursion to Canberra, where they had a brilliant time exploring our nation's capital. Their exceptional behaviour and enthusiasm were commendable, showcasing them as outstanding representatives of Floraville. From visiting significant landmarks to engaging in informative activities, the students demonstrated curiosity and respect throughout the trip. We are proud of their efforts and the positive impression they made during this enriching experience!
Recently in English, students have been learning about the features of a narrative, including its purpose and structure. What makes a great narrative that compels you to read on? Elements such as humour, suspense, action, and the use of figurative and descriptive language are key. Students put their knowledge into action by creating pocket books short stories accompanied by matching illustrations and an element of surprise, as well as engaging narratives based on their text topics.
In mathematics students will be focusing on
- Year 6, estimate and apply place value understanding to solve addition and subtraction problems
- identify the connection between addition and subtraction
- select, compare and evaluate efficient flexible strategies when solving problems with more than one operation.
- Year 5, explore the connection between additive relations and place value
- recognise and explain the connection between addition and subtraction
- select and explain efficient flexible strategies when solving additive problems.
Parents are encouraged to support their children by discussing real-life applications of varied addition and subtraction strategies at home!
In creative arts, student are exploring the elements of art, line, shape, space, colour, value, form and texture. It has been lovely to see some wonderful artworks up on the walls in each classroom
Congratulations to our Year 5 students for their outstanding effort in completing the NAPLAN assessments this past week. Their hard work and attention, are to be commended.
Mr Cox
Stage 3 Assisant Principal
School News
Homework
Please find resources and learning opportunities in the following link. These are enriching activities that families can choose for their child to complete at home for homework.
Reading daily is vital. Research has proven that reading can have profound effects on student academic, social and emotional development. It builds vocabulary as well as confidence, fluency and comprehension.
Library News
Book Fair
We are excited to invite you to our first Scholastic Book Fair for 2025!
There will be some amazing new titles on offer, as well as familiar fan favourites. If you would like a sneak peak of some of the books available at the fair, please visit Scholastic Book Fair.
Cash or card payments available. For online payments when purchasing wish list items, please visit Parent Payment and search ‘Floraville Public School’. There is space to record online payment details on the reverse of the wish list slip.
Date: Monday 24 - Friday 28 March 2025
Location: Open each morning in the school library
Time: 8.15am - 8.55am
Timetabled class visits will be communicated in the lead up the fair.
NSW Premier's Reading Challenge
The NSW Premier’s Reading Challenge for 2025 in now under way!
Students should have received a PRC Reading Log sheet to record books they read as part of the challenge.
To digitally search, add and keep track of books read during the challenge, please visit Student Experience
Students log in using the link above and their school email address and password.
Please see Mr Tassell in the library if students require a printed log sheet, or support with accessing and logging books read on the NSW Premier’s Reading Challenge website.
For the comprehensive list of PRC books, please visit PRC Booklists
Challenge closes to students Friday, 22 August 2025.
Mr Tassell
Library Teacher
Student Representative Council
Disco and Out of Uniform Day
Assembly 2025
Assemblies
This week we recommenced our assemblies. This week's assembly was the presentation of sporting ribbons for the swimming carnival. Week 10 assembly will be 2M followed by 6C in Week 11.
Primary assemblies will be held in odd weeks from 2pm whilst infant assemblies will be held in even weeks from 2.30pm.
All assemblies have now been added to the School Bytes Parent Calendar.
If your child is going to be receiving an award, you will get a notification via School Bytes on the Wednesday before the following Monday's assembly.
Students in 2K will be attending assembly with Infants. Whilst primary assembly is on for Year 3, Year 2 students from 2/3K will be participating in Personal Development lessons with their Year 2 peers.
Scripture
Scripture will commence Term 2 Week 2 and will be taking place every even week for both Primary and Infants.
2025 Youth Week Art Exhibition
2025 Youth Week Art Exhibition
Throughout Youth Week 2025, Youth Express is turning their Maitland office into an inspiring art gallery, to showcase the incredible talent of young artists. They are calling on young artists aged 12 – 30 years from the Hunter region to submit their artwork to be featured in this special event. Whether you’re a painter, sketch artist, sculptor, photographer, or work in any other medium, they want to celebrate unique styles and creativity.
How to submit your artwork:
- Create or select a piece or two of original artworks that you’re proud to display.
- Fill out the submission form via the QR code below. Deadline is 28 March.
- Deliver your artwork to Youth Express Maitland between 31 March – 7
All submissions will be reviewed, and selected artworks will be displayed in the gallery during Youth Week. Please scan the QR code on the flyer below for more details.
Easter Hat Parade
Hop on Down to the Easter Hat Parade!
Get ready to celebrate Easter in style at Floraville Public School!
When: Friday, April 11, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
What: Annual Easter Hat Parade
Where: Under the Cola
K-2 students will be busy crafting their fabulous Easter hats in the classroom. We can't wait to see the imaginative designs that spring from their creativity! Remember, it’s a day to shine, so all students are invited to come dressed out of uniform.
3-6 students are encouraged to sport their wackiest hairstyles—think bunny ears, spiky hair, or anything that says “crazy”!
We invite all parents and carers to come along and cheer for your children as they show off their creations in the parade. After the festivities, be sure to stop by the hall for the P&C Easter Raffles, where you could win some egg-citing prizes!
We look forward to seeing everyone’s festive spirit and creativity on display! 🐰🎉🥚
Starting School Information Night
Sports News
Primary Sport
During Friday of Week 8 (today), Week 9, and Thursday of Week 10, students will have the opportunity to trial for Netball, Soccer, or Rugby League. Parents have received permission slips allowing students to walk to Marks Oval for these trials.
Please use the provided form to indicate if your child would like to participate in one of the representative sports teams for 2025. Students are welcome to trial for more than one sport. The following teams have provisionally been entered to be selected based on interest and support from families, as well as the commitment required to cover associated costs:
Macquarie Cup Netball
We are looking to form the following teams:
- 2 Junior Girls
- 1 Junior Mixed
- 2 Senior Girls
- 1 Senior Mixed
During the netball trials, teachers will also select students for the PSSA school team and those eligible to trial for the ELM PSSA Netball team.
Inter-School Soccer
Students are encouraged to bring their boots and shin pads for soccer trials. We will be selecting:
- 2 Junior Teams (1 Boys, 1 Mixed)
- 2 Senior Teams (1 Boys, 1 Mixed)
Eagle League (Rugby League)
For Rugby League trials, students should bring their boots and must have a mouthguard. We will be selecting:
- 1 Junior Team (Boys and Girls)
- 1 Senior Team (Boys and Girls)
(Parent transport will be required.)
If you know your child will be absent during the trial weeks but would like them to participate, please inform the school so that teachers can make alternative arrangements.
Swimming
On Monday, we held the annual Swimming Ribbon Presentation in the school hall. It was wonderful to see our House Sports Leaders run the assembly in such a calm and confident manner. Congratulations to all who received a ribbon and to our Age Champions for 2025!
Junior Boy Luke Z-W, Junior Girl Sophie S, 11yrs Boy Kyle U, 11yrs Girl Zahra B, Senior Boy Mason K,Senior Girl Jessie B.
Cross Country
The annual Floraville PS Cross Country Carnival will be run at Marks Oval on Friday 4 April - backup date Thursday 10 April.
- Years 8-10 run 2000m (2kms)
- Years 11 and 12 run 3000m (3kms)
In our recent collection of Sports Nominations for 2025, we asked families about their preference for the Cross Country Carnival format. The majority expressed a preference for an opt-in carnival, so we will be implementing this choice in 2025.
We encourage you to have a discussion with your child about their interest in participating. If you decide that your child will attend and indicate this on the permission note, we will expect their participation on the day.
Permission notes have been distributed to all families of students who turn 8 and above this year.
Girls PSSA Cricket
Next Thursday our Girl's School Cricket Team will play in round 1 of the PSSA Knockout vs Eleebana PS.
We wish them all the best.
NRLW Challenge Gala Day
Our U12s girls had a great day representing Floraville PS in the NRL's Challenge Gala Day. Some of the girls scored tries in their first ever games of Rugby League! The girls ended up winning all of their games with some excellent teamwork in defence and some scintillating attack. Thank you to the parents for transporting and cheering on the girls.
Mr McSweeny
From The Office
Beat the Bite - Fundraiser
As part of this initiative, our school has been provided with RID Tropical Antiseptic Bite Protection 100ml pump spray bottles that are available for families to purchase at a discounted cost of $5 (RRP $9.50). These can be purchased from the office with cash or EFTPOS, or you can log into your School Bytes parent portal, go to the ‘Payments’ tab, select the ‘Add other item’ tab, and from there you can complete your purchase.
For all online purchases, office staff will send these home with students, or email the school if you would prefer to collect your order from the office.
All monies from this fundraiser goes towards resources for the school.
P&C News
🐣 P&C Easter Raffle Extravaganza
The annual P&C Easter Raffle Extravaganza will be held in the hall after the Easter Hat/Crazy Hair Parade on Friday, 11 April. The Parade starts at 12pm in the COLA, and students will then make their way to the hall for the Easter Raffle.
So, what happens in the lead-up to this egg-citing event?! 🐰🥚
- All students are invited to bring in an Easter egg/item as a donation for the raffle between 24 March and 1 April.
These can be placed in the allocated Easter tubs in each classroom.
Please ensure your children know these are a donation, so they are not eaten or broken on the way to school. - We require around 20 adult volunteers to assist with sorting and wrapping the raffle prizes from 8:30-11:00am in the hall on Friday, 11 April (note we may finish earlier than 11am).
Please sign up on our website if you can assist: Events | Floraville P S P&C Association.
All volunteers are required to complete the Department of Education's new digital declaration. Please check with the office. - The fundraising sub-committee is finalising details for purchasing raffle tickets – watch this space! We will send out a notification next week for ticket purchases. We will be offering online ticket sales this year. 💻
- All students and families are invited to join in the fun and attend the parade and raffle. This is a fun day to end Term 1! 🎊
👕 Second-Hand Uniform Shop 🛍️
The final dates that the 2nd hand uniform shop will be open for Term 1 are:
- Monday, 24 March from 2:45-3:15pm
- Friday, 11 April from approximately 1:30-2:15pm (after the Easter Hat Parade and P&C Easter Raffle extravaganza).
We are still accepting uniform donations – these can be taken to the donation tub in the foyer of the front office during school hours. The winter months are coming, so it’s time to get prepared and grab some 2nd hand Winter uniform bargains. Please note there are no exchanges or refunds available.
Thank you for your support! 🙏
P&C Communication
Stay up to date with the latest P&C information and events.
📨Email us: fpspresident@gmail.com
🌍Visit our website: https://floravillepublicschoolpc.square.site/
📘 Join us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/p.c.floraville
Amanda Bailey
P&C President on behalf of the P&C Committee
Community Newsletter
Please see Community Newsletter - Term 1 for community events and news.