Newsletter | Term 3 Week 5

Principal Message

Parent-Teacher Interviews

Parent-Teacher Interviews will be held towards the end of this term, providing a valuable opportunity for parents and teachers to collaborate in supporting student learning and development.

These interviews are scheduled for Weeks 9 and 10, with flexible options available to accommodate busy schedules. You can choose to attend either face-to-face or over the phone, ensuring that you are able to participate in a way that works best for you.

Teachers will have varying availabilities during this period, and all interview bookings will be managed through the School Bytes Parent app. While bookings are not open just yet, keep an eye out for the Interviews icon which will appear in the School Bytes Parent Portal on Monday 1 September at 7am. Interview bookings will close Friday 12 September at midnight.

Engaging in Parent-Teacher interviews offers several key benefits, including the opportunity to receive insights into your child’s progress and areas for growth, fostering a positive connection between home and school, which can enhance your child’s educational experience, and sharing your observations and perspectives with teachers, creating a collaborative atmosphere for discussing your child’s needs.

We encourage all parents to take part in this opportunity to connect with our dedicated teaching staff. Your involvement is invaluable in supporting your child’s learning journey.

Please be advised that Parent-Teacher Interviews for KD and Lucy Dorman, together with 5/6F and Nathan Faulkner, are scheduled for alternative times. Separate information will be emailed to KD and 5/6F families.

Detailed instructions on how to book your interview are available below.

Father’s Day Celebrations

Public Schools Student Survey 2025: listening to our students

At Floraville Public School, we are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment for all our students. To help us understand how well we are doing and where we can improve, all students in Years 3 to 6 participated in the NSW Public Schools Student Survey in Term 2. This new annual survey is an important tool used across NSW public schools to gather student feedback on their educational experiences.

What is the NSW Public Schools Student Survey?

The survey invites students to share their views on a wide range of themes that impact their schooling. These include their sense of belonging at school, experiences of inclusion, teaching quality, student voice, wellbeing, bullying, transitions, and aspirations for the future. Importantly, the survey results help schools identify strengths and areas for improvement, guiding future planning and initiatives.

What have our students told us?

We are pleased to share some highlights from the 2025 student survey at Floraville Public School:

• Friendships and inclusion: An overwhelming 95% of students reported having a good friend at school, reflecting a strong culture of friendship and belonging.
• School expectations: A positive 85% of students feel that the school expects them to follow school expectations, supporting a safe and respectful learning environment.
• Cultural respect: 79% of students felt good about their culture being respected and included at school, showing our ongoing commitment to celebrating diversity.
• Student voice: 77% of students agreed that the school cares about their opinions, highlighting the value placed on student participation in school decisions.
• Looking ahead: 76% of students have ideas about their future occupation or career, demonstrating their aspirations and motivation to learn.
• Transitions: While 58% of Year 5 and 6 students feel positive about moving to high school, this area offers opportunities for us to provide additional support and reassurance.

These results provide valuable insights into the experiences of our students and help us celebrate what is working well, such as strong friendships, a respectful school culture, and clear expectations, while identifying areas where we can focus our efforts, like supporting students through important transitions.

What do we do with this information?

As a staff, we have unpacked the data and begun discussing adjustments we can make in everyday teaching and learning to support what our students have told us. Our school is coming to the end of our current planning cycle, and we will develop a new School Excellence Plan in 2026. Student voice will be a significant factor as we continue to improve.

A sticky situation

We know chewing gum can be great for freshening breath and even helping your teeth, but at school, gum tends to cause more trouble than it’s worth.

From sticky desks to gum artworks on our playground, chewing gum is becoming a bit of a sticky situation. It’s tricky to clean up, distracting in class, and can even cause accidental hair raising issues.

So, to keep our school tidy, safe, and free from unexpected chewing gum surprises, please help us by making sure your child leaves the gum at home. Our cleaners and teachers thank you, and so do the desks, walkways, and shoes...

Thanks for helping us stick to the rules (but not the gum)!

Nick Garner
Rel. Principal 

Celebrating Success: Floraville Public School Sustainability Crew innovation

The Floraville Public School Sustainability Crew, a dedicated team of Year 6 girls, Emily, Grace, Sophie, Hailey and Lily, is making waves with their innovative approach to sustainability. This talented group is proudly competing in the Game Changer Challenge, an exciting competition that encourages students to develop creative solutions to real-world problems.

With the guidance of Mr Tassell, the team has focused on developing a smart waste management system designed specifically for schools. Their goal is to motivate every student to dispose of their waste correctly all of the time.

The crew began by conducting thorough research and data analysis, exploring waste patterns and challenges within the school. They asked critical questions about how to encourage better habits among students and designed a solution that not only streamlines waste disposal but also actively engages and motivates the whole school community to make sustainable choices every day.

We invite everyone to learn more about their exciting work by checking out their video and exploring their website at FPS Sustainability Crew. Their innovative solution is a fantastic example of how young minds, supported by dedicated educators like Mr Tassell, can lead the way toward positive environmental change.

Nick Garner

APC&I Focus and NAPLAN results

APC&I Focus

Assistant Principals of Curriculum and Instruction maintain an explicit focus on the leadership of effective, evidence-informed literacy and numeracy teaching and assessment practices for improved student learning outcomes. We work shoulder to shoulder with teachers to enhance the quality of literacy and numeracy instruction across the curriculum. This is achieved through the provision of high impact professional learning, strong collaboration, and detailed analysis of data to inform teaching practice.

Data collection and analysis are ongoing and involves a range of sources such as formative and summative school-based assessments, teacher observations, and mandatory state-based assessments. Mandatory assessments include Kindergarten Best Start, Year 1 Phonics Screening Check, NAPLAN (Years 3 and 5), as well as Check-in Assessments (Years 3-6).

Year 1 Phonics Screening Check

The Year 1 Phonics Screening Check is a short assessment that measures student progress in phonics. The check takes 5–7 minutes and is carried out in the classroom by classroom teachers with each student individually. Results are available immediately. Collaboratively, we analyse the results and, if necessary, plan for any additional support that students might require by targeting teaching aligned with the NSW English syllabus outcomes. The assessment is currently taking place: Term 3, Weeks 4–6 (11-29 August 2025).

Check-in Assessment

Check-in Assessment is an annual assessment for students in Years 3 to 9 in NSW Public Schools. All students complete a reading and a numeracy test of approximately 50 questions each. Year 6 students also complete a writing assessment. These assessments support the identification of students’ performance in literacy and numeracy and inform next steps in teaching and learning. Check-in assessments will take place between 25 August and 26 September 2025.

NAPLAN Results

NAPLAN, the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy, is an annual assessment for students in Years 3, 5, 7, and 9 in Australian schools. It assesses students' skills in reading, writing, spelling, grammar, punctuation, and numeracy. 

Floraville Public School 2025 NAPLAN Results

NAPLAN results provide valuable insight into student achievement in literacy and numeracy and are used as part of a broader data set to inform and drive whole school improvement. A deep analysis of our data is conducted by all staff, identifying trends, strengths, and areas for improvement, as measured against state and statistically similar school groups (SSSG).

Our 2025 results reflect consistent classroom practices and strong foundational skills in reading and numeracy, with our Year 3 cohort achieving above both state and SSSG in numeracy, reading and grammar and punctuation. While writing is above state, we are slightly below SSSG, and this is potentially an area for targeted improvement.

Our Year 5 cohort is above state in numeracy and has achieved results close to the state and SSSG in all other domains. A deeper analysis of our Year 5 results has identified specific content areas where our students are excelling and potential areas for improvement.

To ensure we are meeting the needs of all students, our analysis encompasses student level results, class level trends, student growth and cohort comparisons. We also identify common misconceptions to better target intervention and areas of growth to further high potential students.

If you would like more comprehensive information, our NAPLAN 2025 results will be shared at our next P&C meeting on Tuesday 9 September. It would be great if you could join us!

Jo Connolly
APC&I

Library

Book Week 2025

Our recent Book Parade was a vibrant celebration of creativity and imagination, with students bringing their favourite book characters to life in spectacular fashion. The excitement and enthusiasm were truly inspiring to see! We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the parents, teachers, and members of our school community who attended and supported the event. Your presence and encouragement made the day even more memorable and helped foster a love of reading and storytelling among our students.

Sam Tassell
Library Teacher

School News

Regional Finals of the Premier’s Spelling Bee

We are proud to celebrate the outstanding efforts of two of our talented students, Lyla from Stage 2 and Jaylah from Stage 3, who represented Floraville Public School at the Regional Finals of the Premier’s Spelling Bee.

Both students demonstrated remarkable spelling prowess as they competed against students from a wide area stretching from Wollongong to Lennox Head.

Lyla successfully spelled six challenging words, including “animosity,” “battalion,” and “percentile.” Lyla’s impressive run continued until round seven, when only six students remained. She was narrowly eliminated on the word “nomadic”. Lyla’s determination, skill, and composure throughout the competition was truly commendable, and we congratulate her on this fantastic achievement.

Jaylah tackled the competition with courage and dedication, successfully spelling her first word before missing a letter in a known word in round two. Jaylah’s participation and effort in this challenging event is highly valued.

Both Lyla and Jaylah have made Floraville Public School proud with their application.

Celebrating Teacher Education Students

We are excited to celebrate Mr James Bunt and Miss Caitlin Fenton from the University of Newcastle as they progress to Phase 2 of their internship in Kindergarten. Throughout their time with us, they have consistently demonstrated a high level of graduate standards, showcasing their dedication to fostering a nurturing and engaging learning environment for our students. Their commitment to professional growth and excellence in teaching is commendable, and we look forward to seeing their continued development in the next phase of their journey.

Sports News

PSSA Netball Knockout

On Monday, 18 August, our PSSA netball team played two exciting games. The first match was against Coal Point Public School, where we secured a strong win with a score of 27 – 18. Following a quick turnaround, we then faced Scone Public School at our school. We managed to beat the rain and achieve an impressive 36 – 13 victory.

A huge thank you to our General Assistant, Mr Darren Calman, who quickly mopped up a leak in our roof, helping us to avoid any disruptions.

Congratulations to the entire team! Your hard work, improving skills, teamwork, flexibility, and determination continue to shine through.

We are now awaiting the results from a few other schools to find out who we will face in our next game.

Elizabeth Lindsay and Carissa Watson

Zone Athletics Carnival

The sun was shining last Friday as 32 of Floraville’s finest athletes proudly represented the school at the Eastlakes PSSA Zone Athletics Carnival.

There were several outstanding performances across a range of events, with Floraville picking up ribbons in discus, shot put, long jump, high jump, sprints, and the longer distance running events. A highlight of the day was the teamwork shown during the relays, with both our junior and senior girls teams finishing fractions of a second ahead of their rivals to claim the top spot. A massive thank you should go to Miss Mitchell, who expertly managed the team to ensure students made it to their events, and the parents and supporters for cheering us on across the finish line.

We would also like to congratulate the 13 students who will now go on to represent Floraville and Eastlakes in the Hunter PSSA carnival on September 5.

Nick Dimmers

NSW PSSA Touch Football

We are thrilled to celebrate Sophie and her remarkable achievement representing Floraville and the Hunter region in the recent State Touch Football Championships held in Dubbo. Sophie showcased outstanding skill and determination, scoring three amazing tries that played a crucial role in leading her team to a well-deserved silver medal.

The girls’ campaign was nothing short of impressive. Over 12 games, they secured 10 wins, 1 draw, and only 1 loss, demonstrating consistency and teamwork throughout the tournament. Their semi-final match was a nail-biter, going into overtime drop-off, with Hunter scoring a decisive try in the first 30 seconds to secure their place in the grand final.

The grand final was a tough, closely contested game played in wet and challenging conditions. Despite their best efforts, the girls narrowly lost 1-0, finishing as runners-up in the state. This incredible achievement is a testament to their hard work, resilience, and sportsmanship.

Congratulations once again to Sophie and the entire team for their fantastic performance representing Floraville and the Hunter region, and for bringing home the silver medal!

K-2 Athletics Carnival - Save the Date

P&C News

🎁 P&C Father’s Day Stall – Coming Soon!

Our Father’s Day Stall is happening on Friday, 29 August 2025! Students will attend the stall with their class, where they can purchase one main gift, as well as chocolates and cards. All students will have the opportunity to return at the 2nd break and purchase as many additional gifts as they like.

We are aware that some primary students leave before 2nd break for sports, and we will make accommodations so they can make additional purchases before they leave. This will be explained to students on the day.

Please send students with cash on the day (no IOU’s), and a bag to take their special purchases safely home.

🙋Volunteers Wanted

We still require volunteers from 8am - 2pm to assist with setting up the stall, selling items to students, and packing up at the end of the day. We appreciate any time you can offer, whether it’s for an hour or all day.

Please sign up to volunteer via our online link: Father’s Day Stall Volunteer Sign-Up.

Thank you to those who have already signed up! We still need more volunteers to go ahead with the stall, so please consider helping out. It’s a fun and rewarding day, helping students choose those special gifts.

🌈 Colour Run – Thursday, 25 September

If you haven’t already registered your child for the Colour Run, now is the time! Register at www.myprofilepage.com.au and share your page with family and friends to sponsor your child. The more participants and funds raised, the closer we get to our goal, and the more fun the kids have sliming their teachers and winning fantastic prizes!

The SRC has requested $15,000 to update library furniture and resources, creating a more comfortable space for lessons and breaks. Our Colour Run fundraising aims to make this happen, benefiting every student from Kindergarten to Year 6.

🏢 Business Owners 

Interested in sponsoring the event or a Colour Run obstacle? Contact Cheryl, VP (Fundraising), at fpsfundraising1@gmail.com for details.

🙋 Volunteers Wanted

Take a roster or leave day and join the fun! The last Colour Run in 2022 was a blast for students, teachers, and helpers alike. Don’t miss out!

🍽️ Canteen Update

A huge thank you to Margaret and the P&C canteen team for creating the popular Book Week Meal Deals and generously donating daily golden tickets for students to use at the Book Fair and free ice blocks. Thanks also to the school community for placing your Book Week canteen orders! The excitement was contagious, with winners announced daily on our Facebook page.

Canteen Volunteers Needed

We need volunteers on the following dates. No experience needed, and orientation is provided; it’s fun, and lunch is included! Please message us on Facebook or email floravillecanteen@yahoo.com if you can help.

🌟 Volunteer of the Month

Congratulations to our recent Volunteer of the Month winners!

June: Vicki Penfold, for her ongoing support in the canteen

July: Cheryl Magann, for her fabulous fundraising efforts

Vicki and Cheryl will receive goodies from Cake Cake Baby and Zarraffas Coffee as a token of appreciation. Keep an eye on our P&C Facebook page for more about our wonderful volunteers.

Know someone deserving of nomination for August’s Volunteer of the Month? Send us an email or Facebook message!

👕 2nd Hand Uniform Shop

Next Opening 

Monday, 25 August, from 2:45–3:15pm. Our new EFTPOS machine is ready to help streamline sales. Pop in after assembly and you’ll find us in the building between the office and the bottom playground.

Survey

We want to hear from our school community! Whether or not you’ve used the uniform shop, please take less than 2 minutes to complete our survey: 2nd Hand Uniform Shop Survey.

🗓️ Upcoming P&C Dates for Your Calendar! 📅

📅Term 3 P&C Meeting: 9 September

👨‍👧Father’s Day Stall: Friday, 29 August 

🏃‍♀️Colour Run: Thursday, 25 September 

📅Term 4 P&C Meetings: 14 October and 11 November

Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details on these exciting events! 🎊

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

LOWES

Community Newsletter

Please see Community Newsletter - Term 3 for upcoming holiday and vacation care information, and other community news and events.