The Link

A Publication of Rydalmere Public School

Term 1 Week 11 2025

Dates Ahead

Zing Gymnastics lessons every Thursday

Thursday April 10School ANZAC Day service
Friday 11 April

Easter Hat Parade & P&C Easter raffle draw

Last day of Term 1

Wednesday 30 AprilReturn to school for all K-6 Students and Preschool Blue Group.
Monday 19 MayWhole School Photos & Preschool Green Group
Thursday 22 MaySchool Photos - Preschool Blue Group

Principal's Updates

ANZAC Day

The ANZAC Day service held at our school was a solemn and respectful event that commemorated the bravery and sacrifice of Australian and New Zealand soldiers. The service provided an opportunity for students, staff, and families to honour the ANZAC spirit and reflect on the importance of this significant day in our history. Thank you to our student leaders who conducted the service. 

Harmony Day

Last Wednesday Rydalmere Public School celebrated Harmony Day with an annual parade Students actively participated by wearing traditional clothing and colours representing their cultural backgrounds. This display of diversity added vibrancy to the event and highlighted the rich cultural tapestry of our school community. The involvement of families and the enthusiastic participation of students contributed to making Harmony Day a memorable experience for all. We look forward to future celebrations that continue to promote harmony within our school community. 

Staffing Update

Sadly Mrs Helen Jaitani and Mr Micah Taylor will be leaving Rydalmere Public School at the end of this term. They both have made a significant impact on our students and school community during their time here. We wish them both all the very best in their future endeavours. 

We are pleased to announce that Mrs Louise Sini will be replacing Mrs Jaitani at the start of Term 2. She will continue to teach 5/6 Teal on Tuesdays and Fridays, and provide a supportive and enriching learning environment for our students. 

NSW Public Schools Student Survey

In Term 2, we are offering our students the opportunity to participate in the NSW Public Schools Student Survey. The survey gives students the chance to share their thoughts and feelings about life at school, including questions about their engagement, learning experiences and wellbeing at school.

Hearing directly from our students will help us understand what’s working well and where improvements can be made to our school. The survey is confidential, takes around 10 to 15 minutes to complete, and will be conducted online during school hours.

Participation is voluntary. If you prefer your child not to participate, please complete the opt-out consent form, which was sent out via the school email. If you require a hard copy please see the office. Further information about the survey is available at

 https://education.nsw.gov.au/npss

Classroom Visit

I was thrilled to be invited into 1/2 Coral to hear a range of fantastic stories written by the students, all of which were captivating and engaging. While reviewing and providing feedback on the stories, I was truly impressed by the effort and attention to detail that the class put into their recounts. The students came up with their own creative ideas and storylines. Keep up the great effort! 

Easter Hat Parade

Many families in our school community celebrate Easter, and sharing traditions and celebrations is a valuable learning experience for all of us. The Easter Hat Parade is a long running tradition at Rydalmere Public School and is a fun way for us to share what is an important time for many of our friends. 

We will be having an Easter Hat parade under the COLA at 2pm on Friday 11 April. Parents are most welcome to join us. Thank you to our parents for helping their children complete the masterpieces. 

As the holidays approach, I want to wish everyone a safe and happy break! Whether you are going away, spending time with family, or relaxing at home, we hope you enjoy this special time. Please take care of yourselves and each other. We can't wait to see everyone back, ready for new adventures next term! 

Happy Holidays! 

Warren Yee

K-2 Assistant Principal's Updates

K-2 Mad About Science Incursion

On Thursday 15th May students from K-2 will have the opportunity to participate in a Mad about Science Incursion - Wicked Weather.

This will be a 90-minute incursion where students will participate in:

  • Observe a simulation of rain forming and falling.
  • Use basic laboratory equipment to make a simple model of the water cycle.
  • Students conduct some simple tests to determine whether the material used in T-shirts and sunglasses blocks UV radiation.
  • Each student makes a simple UV detector to keep.
  • Observe a simulation of a tornado.
  • Exciting demonstration of an instant cloud in a bottle.
  • Demonstration of a cloud in a bottle with ethanol under pressure.
  • Model how the rotation of the Earth affects the way air moves around the world.

The cost of the incursion is $17.00.

Payment: Please complete payment and online consent via School Bytes by Monday 5 May.

Stage 1 Dioramas

This term, stage 1 students explored how daily and seasonal changes in our environment affect everyday life, focusing on observing, recording, investigating, and reporting on the local weather.

As part of their learning, students had to research a specific type of weather, such as sunny, rainy, snowy, stormy, or windy. They had to use their research to plan and create a diorama that creatively showcased their chosen weather.

Well done to all the students for their fantastic efforts! Below are a few examples of their impressive dioramas.

1/2S and 1/2C with their Dioramas

The Science of Shadows: Learning About Length and Direction

Students in 1/2S and 1/2C have been exploring the fascinating world of shadows! We’ve been learning how shadows change in both length and direction throughout the day. The students experimented with creating various shadows and discovered that they are longest in the morning and evening, and shortest around noon. Going outside to draw our shadows and trace objects has been a fun and interactive way to understand how the movement of the sun impacts the world around us.

1/2S and 1/2C Outdoor Learning

Kindergarten Phonics: Learning to Read and Write

In K Mint, students have been focusing on the letter sounds "SATPIN" to help build our reading and writing skills. Students are learning to recognise these sounds, blend them together, and read and write simple words. It’s been exciting to see their progress as they start to form words and become more confident in their ability to read and write.

Kindergarten Phonics

1/2C Recount Writing

Students have been engaging with the text Our Island, exploring life from the perspective of a child living on Mornington Island. As part of their writing journey, they have written a personal recount imagining what life might be like for a young person on the island.

They are now in the publishing phase of their work, using word processing software to type and format their final copies. This stage is helping them develop their digital handwriting and word processing skills.

Students are also designing a front cover using Canva, building their confidence with digital design tools while showcasing their creativity.

3-6 Assistant Principal's Updates

5/6T's Vertical Algorithm Adventures

In 5/6T, we've been focusing on using vertical algorithms to solve both addition and subtraction problems involving whole numbers and decimals. This method ensures our calculations are accurate and efficient. Here’s what we've been learning!

Success Criteria for Addition:

  • Line up your digits carefully – Don’t forget the decimal! It stays in line.
  • Start on the right – We always begin with the right-most digit!

  • Add the numbers – If the sum is 9 or below, we drop it low. If it’s 10 or above, we regroup and give the tens a shove!

  • Move to the left – Repeat the process for each place value, one column at a time.

  • Success Criteria for Subtraction:
  • Line up your digits carefully – Again, decimals must be lined up!

  • Start on the right – Always work from right to left.

  • Subtract the numbers – If the top number is bigger, no need to stop. But if the bottom number is bigger, go next door and get 10 more!

  • Move to the left – Continue the same process for each place value.

  • Use your answer as the start number for the next algorithm – This ensures we keep building on what we’ve already done.

  • These steps have helped students become more confident in performing calculations accurately, whether they’re adding or subtracting whole numbers or decimals. With consistent practice, the vertical algorithm has become a reliable tool for solving complex problems with precision. Keep up the great work, 5/6T!

Year 6 Fundraising for a Legacy Gift and Farewell Celebration

Exciting news! Our Year 6 students will soon be kicking off their fundraising efforts to contribute towards a legacy gift for the school and to help subsidise their end-of-year farewell celebration. These initiatives will give the students the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy at Rydalmere Public School, while ensuring a memorable send-off as they prepare to move on to high school.

Stay tuned for more details next term as the Year 6s begin their fundraising journey! We’re looking forward to seeing the creative ways they’ll raise funds and the positive impact they’ll have on the school community.

Glow Disco Party

Get ready for a fun-filled afternoon of dancing and excitement!

Date: Tuesday, 20th May

Time: K-2 Students: 3:30 PM - 4:15 PM 3-6 Students: 4:15 PM - 5:00 PM

Tickets: $15 (Must be purchased by Friday, 16th May) Tickets are available at the school office. Upon arrival, students will receive glow sticks, juice poppers, and popcorn.

All proceeds from the event will go towards K-2 decodable home readers.

Come join us for a groovy time and support a great cause!

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST- Years 1-6 Students Term 3 Swimming Program

It’s that time of year again! We are excited to offer the swimming program at the Ryde Aquatic Leisure Centre for Term 3, and we would like to ask all parents of students in Years 1-6 to please complete the Expression of Interest (EOI) form.

By completing this form, we aim to gauge how many students would like to participate in the program. This will allow us to better understand the costs per child and help us plan accordingly.

We are very fortunate to have been successful in securing another subsidy from the Department of Education's School Sports Unit, which will help reduce the cost for families. Your response will be incredibly valuable in assisting us with the planning process and ensuring the swimming program is a success.

The EOI form can be accessed https://forms.office.com/r/c75bxT7jE4. Please complete the EOI form by the 2nd May 2025.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Mrs Colotouros.

Coding and Robotics Program

Unfortunately, the coding and robotics program will not be running next term as we need to return the robotics equipment to the STEMT4L library.

Over the past three terms, the coding and robotics program has provided a valuable learning experience. We sincerely appreciate the students' enthusiasm and participation, making this a rewarding and engaging program. A special thank you to Miss Masmanidis, Ms Scalley and Mrs Danielletto for their dedication in running the program. Your hard work and support have made this experience truly memorable for all the students.

Lost Property

A blue Aldi bag was found under the cola and is now in the office. If this bag belongs to you, please come by and collect it. You will need to describe the items inside to claim it.

From the Office

Sick Bay

When your child is unwell and needs to be collected from the sickbay, the school will call you from one of the following numbers: 9638 1568 or 9638 2944. Please save these numbers in your mobile phone as Rydalmere Public School so that you can recognise the number when we call and answer accordingly.

Change of Contact Information

If any of your details have changed, including your contact phone numbers please contact the administration office by email rydalmere-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au We need to have up to date contact details at all times.

Thank you for your understanding.

Lost Property

Our PBL expectations of being Safe, Respectful Learners support our students in taking responsibility for their own belongings at school including jumpers, hats, lunchboxes and drink bottles.

Please label your child’s belongs. Lost property items are donated back to P&C uniform shop at the end of each term.

Support Stewart House – Charity Drive 2025 – Please return envelopes to the office by Friday 19 April 2025. Please donate to this worthwhile Charity Drive….

Stewart House is a registered Australian charity with DGR status. All donations over $2 are tax -deductible. Once your donation is processed, you will receive a tax receipt to the email address provided.

A message from Stewart House

Every year, 1,600 public school children attend our safe haven next to Curl Curl beach at no cost to their parents or carers. During a 12-day stay, they are provided with dental, optical, hearing and medical screening and treatment.

Children participate in educational programs and excursions designed to develop their social and emotional skills, build self-esteem and improve their overall wellbeing.

This experience provides children with a much-needed break from their current circumstances. Our children are inspired to see beyond the present and to have real hope and positive aspirations for their future.

Children in the care of Stewart House attend a specific purpose school onsite for 10 days of their 12-day stay. The NSW Department of Education provides infrastructure and staffing support for this school.

All other costs associated with the children’s stay are met from charitable donations.

For more information please visit About Stewart House - assisting NSW children in need since 1931.

RPS Preschool Enrolments for 2026 are now open.

General Guidelines

Public preschools enrol children for one year only, the year before they start school.  Children can enrol from the beginning of the school year if they turn four years of age before 31 July that year.

Priority is given to:

  • Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander children
  • children living in low socio-economic circumstances
  • children who are unable to access other early childhood settings due to financial hardship

The Principal will then offer enrolment in the following order:

  • children living within the school's catchment area
  • children living outside the catchment area but have siblings at the school
  • other applicants       

For further information, please go to the NSW Department of Education link below:

Enrolment in a public preschool (nsw.gov.au)

Our office staff are happy to be of assistance with any further questions or with the enrolment process. 

Student Wellbeing

PBL & Merit Awards - Term 1 Week 10

P&C Report

Greetings from the P&C! We hope you've had a wonderful Term 1, but can you believe it's nearly School Holidays, again!? We hope you and your family have a peaceful and happy break.

Election BBQ and Bake Sale

Now that the 2025 Federal Election has been called for 3 May, we are planning our Election Day BBQ and Bake Sale. 

If you're able to help with any tasks on the day (set-up, cooking, serving/taking payments, pack-down), we'd appreciate any help you can provide. Sign up to volunteer here: https://signup.com/go/DqxJLKY

You can also help by donating baked goods to sell at the stall. You can drop your baked items to school on Friday 2 May (details will be shared in Week 1, Term 2) OR directly to the stall from 7:30 AM on Saturday 3 May. 

Please note that we won't be able to accept any items with cream-based icings or fillings that may spoil. Please ensure baked items are in a container that you do not need returned, clearly labelled with ingredients.   

All proceeds raised on the day will go towards our goals of K-2 Home readers and upgrading the school playground. 

Mother’s Day Stall 

Our annual Mother’s Day stall will be held on Tuesday 6 – Wednesday 7 May.  In Term 2, Week 1 we'll let you know which classes will be for which day.

Gifts will range from $1 - $10. Please remember to bring a bag to put your gift in.

Upcoming dates for your diary 

  • Friday, 11 April: Easter Raffle with hot cross buns for sale at the Easter Hat Parade assembly 
  • 3 May : Federal Election BBQ and Cake Stall 
  • Tuesday 6 May – Wednesday 7 May: Mother’s Day Stall 
  • Monday 12 May: Term 2, Week 3 General P&C Meeting – all are welcome! 
  • Monday 16 June: Term 2, Week 8 General P&C Meeting – all are welcome!
  • Term 3: Father’s Day Stall, SLSO Appreciation Morning Tea, General Meetings in Weeks 3 & 8 
  • Term 4: Colour Run (7 November), Teacher Appreciation Morning Tea, Last Day Lunch, General Meetings in Weeks 3 & 8 

Have a lovely break and we’ll see you in Term 2! 

Rydalmere P&C

Community Hub News

Hello everyone!

I'm Seetha, your friendly Community Liaison Officer at the Community Hub. You can find me at the school from Monday to Wednesday and on Fridays. The Community Hub is a wonderful space for families to connect with each other, the school, and local services. It offers a welcoming environment where parents can come together, socialise, and forge lasting friendships. We provide a range of regular and special activities that are open to everyone, regardless of their background.

Join us and become part of our vibrant community! If you'd like to learn more about the Hub or find out how you can get involved, feel free to call me at 0448 331 588 or email me at seetha.srinivasan@det.nsw.edu.au.

We are at the last week of the term. Hope you are planning for a restful break.

I hope you had the opportunity to visit and take part in our hub programs this term. In addition to our regular weekly offerings—English, playgroup, and dance fitness—we hosted a variety of information sessions, celebrated Women’s Day, conducted workshops, and engaged in numerous discussions.

Term 2 promises to be packed with exciting programs! The Bike Together program will commence on May 13th for registered participants. We will also be offering special art therapy sessions with Mihikaa, and don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Mother’s Day celebration on May 19th!

If you’re interested in volunteering or sharing your skills, or if you’d like to facilitate a program or learn something new, please feel free to chat with Seetha.

Please note that the hub will be closed during the school holidays and will reopen on April 30th.

Hub week in a glance:

-Mondays (9:30 am - 12:30 pm):  Drop by for our Conversational English class—no appointment needed!

-Tuesdays: (9:30 am - 11:30am):   Information session on “Bike together"

- Wednesdays (9:30 am -11:30 am): Playgroup with SDN Children's Services (9:30 am - 11:30 am):** Just walk in and play!One Box Collection Exclusively for those who've signed up.

-Fridays: (9:30 am - 10:30 am): Dance Fitness with Sophie Get your groove on—no need to sign up, just show up!

Looking forward to seeing you!

Community News