ENewsletter

Acknowledgement of Country

Important Diary Dates

From the Principal

It has been a really busy term and we are all happy to be nearing the end of it and approaching our Winter holidays!

I would like to thank everyone for their passion and for living in to so many values this term!

Growth and Bravery

Thank you to Sam Falland in particular who came in and took over the 3 / 4 class while Kristi Nietschke is away on leave. Sam did a fantastic job in what was his first teaching contract !

Challenge and Competence

All teaching staff of classes 3 – 6 as well as our SSO staff Erin, Cloudy and Tammy have been running a new approach to spelling which really focuses on phonics. Ably supported by our resident gurus, Kirsty, Mandy and Mandy, they have been working hard on the delivery of a strong phonics programme. Already our testing has shown growth across the board in student reading and spelling.

Teamwork and Community

Thank you to everyone who came along to the Working Bee a few weeks ago, and to those who donated resources to us. Further on in this newsletter you can see the results of our hard work!

Achievement, Persistance and Growth (again!)

Well done to all our students who have really put in this term! We have been working hard and focussing on building student stamina in reading and spelling specifically. As well as building understanding of values and behaviour – accountability and responsibility. We have fantastic students here at Nuriootpa Primary School who are focussed on their goals and on being the best possible little humans around!!

Fun, Excitement and Friendship

But of course, it hasn’t been all work and no play! We’ve had Jump Rope, Reconciliation Week, heaps of SAPSASA, ballet, excursions to Bushgardens and more - lots and lots of fun and exciting events!

We think they deserve a great holiday!!

Have a great break when it comes!

Vicky

From the Deputy Principal

Building a Thriving School Culture at Nuriootpa PS

At NPS, we believe that a positive and inclusive school culture is the foundation of a successful learning environment. Our commitment to fostering a supportive and engaging atmosphere is reflected in various initiatives and activities designed to nurture the growth and development of our students. Here are some of the key elements that contribute to our thriving school culture:

Emphasis on Respect and Kindness

Respect and kindness are at the heart of our school values. We encourage students to show empathy and consideration towards their peers, teachers, and the community. Through classroom discussions, assemblies, and special programs, we instil these core values, creating a harmonious and welcoming environment for everyone.

Encouraging Student Leadership

We believe in empowering our students to take on leadership roles. SEG, peer mentoring, and classroom responsibilities provide opportunities for students to develop their leadership skills, boost their confidence, and make meaningful contributions to the school community.

Fostering a Love for Learning

A positive school culture is one where the love for learning is cultivated. Our dedicated teachers create engaging and innovative lessons that spark curiosity and inspire a lifelong passion for knowledge. We also offer various extracurricular activities, clubs, and workshops that cater to the diverse interests of our students.

Building Strong Relationships

Strong relationships between students, teachers, and parents are essential for a thriving school culture. We prioritise open communication and collaboration through regular parent-teacher meetings, newsletters, and school events. This partnership ensures that students receive the support they need both at school and at home.

Promoting Well-being

The well-being of our students is paramount. We provide a safe and nurturing environment where students can express themselves and seek help when needed. Our wellness programs, and mindfulness activities help students develop resilience and maintain a healthy balance between academics and personal growth.

Celebrating Achievements

Recognising and celebrating achievements, big and small, is an integral part of our school culture. Whether it's academic success, artistic talent, or acts of kindness, we make sure to acknowledge and celebrate the efforts and accomplishments of our students.

At NPS we are dedicated to creating a nurturing and dynamic school culture where every student can thrive. By prioritising respect, leadership, learning, relationships, well-being, and achievement, we ensure that our students have a positive and enriching school experience.

Wellbeing at NPS

Hello Everyone,

The garden project is a key part of our current Wellbeing Plan for the school. As Mr. Cornish has written in his above comments, we're really honing in on School Culture as an area for growth. One way of doing this is ensuring students feel they have a sense of belonging and purpose at their school. Students who feel like they belong are more happy, more empathetic and, importantly for learning, more motivated. Every child in the school will have the opportunity to be a part of the creation and maintenance of this welcoming space.

The garden has been planned in three stages for the enjoyment of all but with an eye to learning about inclusivity and diversity. Firstly, we have constructed an agricultural and science focused space where each class have their own garden bed, these can be used for learning about plants; propagation, growth, pollination and more. The next section focuses on tactile and sensory plants. Sensory gardens stimulate and appeal to all five senses and are a fantastic space for mindfulness, this environment will be a calming place to go when stressed. Finally, the native garden provides us with a place to explore Australian and particularly First Nations identities through the lens of caring for country. This space will be decorated with artwork the students have made during Reconciliation Week and host a range of trees and plants that are all native to Australia.

The possibilities of these three spaces to improve student mental health and wellbeing are innumerable and we would love the continued help of the school community to make it a reality.

I also extend my thanks to all the parents and community members who contributed to our working bee last week; a heart-warming demonstration of the kindness in our school community.

Thanks everyone,

Michael Rostig

What's Happening at NPS

Community News

Volunteer at NPS

Parent Volunteers

If you are able, Nuriootpa Primary welcomes any parents and carers who would like to volunteer. Parent and Carer Volunteers are a valued support base for our school, assisting staff to provide a range of high quality opportunities to promote the learning, wellbeing and growth of students.

Some ways you can be involved may include:

· Listen to Students read

· Assistance on excursions and Camps

· Helping out at School Events (eg Christmas Concert, Sports day and SAPSASA)

If you are interested in supporting the school in either of these, please contact the Front Office and speak to Karen Brook on 8562 1040 to book in for an information night to be held early next term.

Please note: All volunteers need a WWCC (Working with Children Check) and RHAN (Responding to Harm and Neglect). The School will support interested people in gaining these.