Crafers Primary School

Dear parents and caregivers,

Welcome back everyone to another exciting, yet busy term. The first 3 weeks have certainly flown by, with our 19 new Receptions settling exceptionally well into school life thanks to the caring guidance and expertise of both their teachers, Support Staff, and through the ongoing support and kindness of our wonderful senior students as Buddies.

Our students, staff, and broader community have already been involved in a variety of events and activities that have really showcased what makes our school such a special place to live, grow and learn. Our students continue to demonstrate a strong commitment and courage towards ‘having a go’ and ‘giving their best effort’ in public speaking during our assemblies as well as competing in upcoming interschool competitions including; Oliphant Science, ICAS academic, Pedal Prix, and Knockout sports.

I once again continue to be in awe of how generous, hardworking, and supportive the parent volunteer community are within our school in ways that make a pleasant and rewarding difference for all. The Uniform Shop remains a hive of activity, our Parents and Friends committee remain busy preparing for the upcoming Disco, the Facilities team have worked with Hannah to install the turn bars in the playground, and our Pedal Prix students continue to achieve success, all due to the tireless work and ongoing commitment of our volunteers.

This edition of our newsletter paints another fabulous visual story of our journey so far, with many more great community events to look forward to in the coming weeks including; School Disco, Indonesian Independence Day, SSO Week, Indigenous Literacy Day, and our Grand Parents and Special Friends Morning Tea and Book Week Parade showcasing this year’s theme ‘Symphonies of Stories’.

I am very much looking forward to the coming weeks and celebrating some of the many wonderful learning opportunities our fabulous school community provides.

Kind regards

Shaun Barber

After more than three decades of outstanding service to Crafers Primary School, our beloved Deputy Principal, John Nielsen, will be retiring at the end of this year. John’s remarkable tenure has been characterised by his boundless energy, unwavering enthusiasm, and genuine love for teaching children.

Throughout his years at our school, John has inspired students and colleagues alike, always leading with a positive spirit and a commitment to fostering a nurturing educational environment. His contributions have shaped the heart of Crafers Primary, and his legacy will have a lasting impact on students, staff and our broader school community.

John Nielsen will be greatly missed, and his influence will continue to be felt for years to come. We invite everyone to stay tuned for further details regarding the celebration of John’s outstanding contribution and to join us in honouring his achievements.

The Year 2 students in Room 5 have been working hard this year to improve their handwriting. 

Targeted goal setting has helped the students to make steady progress with excellent results!

Well, that is nearly a wrap on an incredibly successful Pedal Prix season.

This year, our team has been small but mighty, and that was definitely put to the test at our most recent race. We were down on numbers for our longest race thus far, 8 hours on a 3.4km circuit at Tailem Bend. Joined by 194 other trikes, the Comet and the Edge took to the race with all the attributes a cohort of dedicated hard working CPS students could bring.

An early morning cold start turned into a glorious day for racing, with no serious mechanical issues and a group of helpful parents the day was wonderfully enjoyable. The team of kids worked tirelessly, something even commented upon by our direct competitors! The sportsmanship and team spirit displayed on the day are to be commended, something I believe is the greatest lesson available to those that brave Pedal Prix. Their effort in the trike, their ability to ask their bodies for more even when stretched, their growing confidence and fitness…it all shone.

As the checkered flag flew, the Comet rolled over the finish line comfortably in 3rd place with 71 laps, and the Edge fought a tough battle, finishing 18th out of 34 trikes but within 3laps of 11th place. 

As we look towards the last race of our season, the 24hour marathon, we revel in our success and growth. Crowned second and twelfth overall in the 2026 Primary School Pedal Prix Championship, this little team has smashed so many goals, in more ways than one.