Welcome to Term 3

We’re excited to begin another term of learning, growth, and connection. Our focus continues to be on creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where every student feels valued and supported.

Respectful Communication Reminder

We’re excited to continue our journey of learning and growth with your children. This term, we’re focusing on the value of Responsibility by encouraging students to make thoughtful decisions, learn from mistakes, and contribute positively to our community.

As part of our commitment to a respectful and supportive school environment, we kindly ask all families to maintain respectful communication when engaging with our administration team, teachers, and leadership staff. Working together with kindness and understanding helps us support every student more effectively. Our shared goal is to support your child’s learning journey, and respectful dialogue helps us work together effectively.

Recent feedback from our students has highlighted something powerful: they feel more confident and engaged in their learning when they hear encouraging messages from their peers and families and when they see and hear positive working relationships with our whole school community.

Whether it’s a simple “You’re doing great,” a conversation about what they enjoyed at school, or celebrating their effort, these moments matter. They help build a sense of belonging, motivation, and pride in learning.

We encourage families to keep the positive conversations going at home. Your words can inspire your child to show up, try their best, and feel proud of their progress.

Together, we’re building a culture of encouragement and success.

Living Our Values

At Port Dalrymple School, we’re proud to foster a learning environment built on shared expectations. Our “This Is How We Do It Here” approach helps guide student behaviour and strengthen our school culture. Our values Connection, Respect, Growth, Responsibility, and Courage, are reflected in everyday actions:

• Respecting differences and strengths
• Following instructions the first time
• Making choices that positively impact others
• Accepting consequences
• Caring for ourselves, others, and our environment

We encourage families to reinforce these messages at home. Together, we can help our young people grow into thoughtful, resilient, and respectful members of the community.

Thank you for your continued support.

At Port Dalrymple School, we’re committed to supporting every student’s learning and wellbeing. Regular attendance plays a vital role in that success.

Our goal is to reach 85% attendance by the end of Term 3. In Week 2, we achieved 77%, and we’re confident we can improve with your continued support.

Here’s how some year levels are tracking:

• Year 1 & 2 are leading with over 87% attendance
• Prep, Year 5 & 7 are also doing well, above 80%
• We’re working closely with students in Years 6, 8, 10, and 11/12 to lift attendance and engagement

Please help us by:

• Encouraging your child to attend every day, especially Fridays
• Communicating with the school if your child is unwell or needs support
• Reinforcing the importance of showing up and staying connected

How You Can Help Improve Attendance:

• Create a consistent morning routine to help your child arrive on time and ready to learn.
• Talk positively about school and encourage your child to share what they enjoy or find challenging.
• Stay in touch with teachers if your child is struggling, early support makes a big difference.
• Celebrate attendance milestones at home to reinforce the importance of showing up.
• Let us know if there are barriers, we’re here to help with transport, wellbeing, or other concerns.

Together, we can make every school day count. Thank you for being a vital part of your child’s learning journey. We look forward to a great term ahead!

Thank you for your continued support and partnership.

Warm regards,
Lynette Burt
Principal – Port Dalrymple School

Celebrating Culture and Connection – Our New Yarning Circle

As part of our NAIDOC Week celebrations, we proudly opened our Yarning Circle—a space designed to foster connection, reflection, and cultural learning. This meaningful addition was a vision brought to life by our Hands on Learning Build Group, with generous support from Liberty Bell Bay and East Arm Resources.

The Yarning Circle is more than a physical space, it represents our commitment to building a school culture of acceptance, connection, and knowledge. It will be used to support respectful conversations, deepen understanding of First Nations perspectives, and strengthen relationships across our school community.

We thank our students, staff, and partners for helping create a space that will enrich learning and belonging for years to come.

Thank You to Liberty Bell Bay – Supporting Our School Environment

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the team at Liberty Bell Bay for their incredible support in enhancing our school grounds. Their staff generously contributed time and expertise to:

• Upgrade seating areas
• Refresh and beautify our gardens
• Paint key spaces around the school
• Build new planter pots for our outdoor areas

These improvements have made a noticeable difference in creating a more welcoming, vibrant, and engaging environment for our students and staff. We are grateful for their partnership and community spirit.

On August 6th, a group of students from Year 9-10 had an excursion to the Launceston Airport for a tour. We met with various airport staff, including service desk, baggage handlers and passenger service agents. We had the chance to ride a bus on the tarmac, see some different planes take-off, and have a seat in the airport fire truck. Overall, it was a fantastic day to see the various roles involved in running an airport, and a great opportunity to consider what life could potentially look like after leaving school.

Over the past two terms, our Hands On Learning (HOL) students have been diligently working across the school, engaging in numerous projects that embody the four pillars of HOL: a chance to give back, a place to belong, real things to do and people to belong to.

Our students have honed their skills with various tools, focusing on essential tasks such as measurement, estimation, and prediction, while collaborating to complete numerous jobs. Some of our notable achievements include:

• Repairing over 20 bikes for the junior school area
• Hosting a bake sale to raise over $500 for school-wide resources
• Painting an emotions wall for the junior school playground
• Preparing lunches for students in need
• Undertaking various repair jobs across the school
• Enhancing the Year 5/6/7 courtyard

In the greenhouse, students have been busy growing green crops, learning about pH levels, nutrients, and microclimates. Additionally, we completed the yarning circle and held a smoking ceremony for the school community.

Our current projects include building mud kitchens for the junior school, developing a staff lunch program, catering for school events, constructing benches and chalkboards, performing more repairs, and engaging in gardening work.

Over the past 20 weeks, HOL students have shown tremendous growth, practicing their skills and building the confidence to tackle larger projects. We commend them for their hard work and contributions to the school. Special thanks to Paul Grant and Dan Potter for their unwavering commitment to student growth and learning.

Keep up the great work, team!

Wednesday Sport Report – Girls Netball

The netball teams have had some mixed results over the last few games and have been unlucky with the weather, so a few games been called off or postponed.

The Div 3 girls have been moved to Div 2 and have been unlucky since then in some ways, with injuries and sickness so haven’t been able to play with a full team. They won their recent home game against King Meadows in convincing style with Sydney, Amelia and Eboney all playing well. Lily-Rose has been consistent and reliable every week and Andie will hopefully make a much-needed return after sickness as we are desperate for some height. With a consistent team on the court, I am positive some more success will come their way.

The Div 4 girls have won most of their games. Willow has been shooting extremely well and Matilda showing good leadership for a Year 7 in a Year 9/10 competition! Sophie is approaching all games in a positive and determined manner and is another one leading from the front. They had a big win over Kings Meadows at home last week and will hopefully manage to get a full team on the court also in weeks to come.

Wednesday Sport Report – Boys Netball

The last few weeks the boy’s netball team has been challenged in a variety of ways. Firstly, the wet weather has meant that many games have been cancelled limiting the boys game time out on the court. There other challenge was against Campbell Town, this time defeating them at Blue Gum Park by 4 goals after going down in a close contest in round 1. Cruze played his best game yet, demonstrating athletic qualities all over the court. Tahj also continued to show that his just as good on a netball court then on a football field. A special mention to all the boys who played netball and football on this day. Your enthusiasm and commitment to Port meant that both games could go ahead and that a positive experience was had by all.

Term 3

What an incredible term it has been in the Primary Sector! We are absolutely thrilled to share the learning, engagement, and community spirit that has enveloped our students. Our dedicated and expert teaching team continues to provide exceptional learning opportunities, ensuring every child thrives in a supportive and stimulating environment. We are committed to Quality Teaching and differentiated lessons underpinned by data. Our teachers are continuously strengthening and refining their pedagogy through professional learning focused on the state and school reading priority, ensuring our students develop strong foundational reading skills. Remember that reading to and with children is an excellent way to support and grow their love of reading.

We've seen an abundance of exciting engagement initiatives that have brought immense joy and energy to our school. The Primary Lunch Disco was a resounding success, with students showcasing their best dance moves, strengthening wonderful friendships and enjoying glow sticks! Our early years scavenger hunt sparked curiosity turning learning into an exciting adventure. It's truly inspiring to witness students enjoying Thursday football on the oval, demonstrating sportsmanship and healthy competition, guided by AP Jodie Clifford and supported by students. These activities beautifully embody the DECYP values of connection, fostering a strong sense of belonging and fun among our students and staff.

Science Week was a highlight, bursting with discovery and innovation! We were delighted to host a series of engaging incursions and presentations for Science Week, bringing scientific concepts to life right here at school. A particular highlight was the 5/6 excursion to the George Town Library for Science Week activities and scientist presentations. Our students were captivated by the interactive exhibits and the opportunity to learn directly from passionate scientists, sparking a deeper interest in STEM fields.

Our Year 3 and 4 students delighted in the chance to explore George Town’s history on their local excursion. Students were excited by the range of hands on learning opportunities, the chance to explore the Bass and Flinders Centre, as well as view heritage listed homes.

Beyond the classroom, our students have been actively engaged in celebrating our rich cultural heritage. We were so proud to see excited students engaging in NAIDOC Week activities early in the term, which provided invaluable opportunities for learning and reflection. These activities have been instrumental in strengthening cultural connections and respect while supporting students to develop a deeper understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures within our school community. We are incredibly excited for more learning opportunities over the coming weeks, and we are committed to strengthening our engagement through increased attendance, remember that ‘Every School Day Matters’. We also look forward to exploring our community further when groups of students engage in future local excursions, providing real world learning experiences.

George Town Excursion

This term 3/4 Leslie, 3/4 Mohr and 3/4 Crack went on a local excursion. We went on a historic walk around George Town to view historic buildings and landmarks. After our walk we visited The Watch House and Bass and Flinders Museum where the students learned about the Norfolk, whale boat, maritime history and local history. The students and staff had a wonderful time learning and engaging in meaningful conversation with staff and peers. To finish off our excursion the students had lunch at the local park.

Term 3

We are excited to share that your child is participating in a 20-week CAD (Computer-Aided Design) program designed to build digital design skills using real-world tools. The course is part of our Design and Technologies curriculum and focuses on developing creativity, problem-solving, and spatial reasoning.

Throughout the course, students will explore three professional design platforms:
• Tinkercad – for learning 3D shapes, measurement, grouping and alignment
• SketchUp – for more detailed architectural and spatial modeling
• Fusion 360 – for advanced product design and engineering concepts

Each week, students will:
• Follow tutorials on CANVAS  to learn specific CAD skills
• Complete design challenges and projects
• Reflect on their learning in a digital Design Log
• Submit evidence of their work through Microsoft OneDrive and CANVAS

Sector Report

Secondary students continue to have a wide variety of opportunities and experiences to participate, learn, make further personal progress and become more confident, resilient and mature young people in our school community.

As well as engaging in core subjects and electives, the following events and activities have provided our young people with opportunities to learn and be recognised beyond the classroom: 

• NHSSA Sport
• Celebrating NAIDOC Week with activities, Smoking Ceremony and Opening of the Yarning Circle
• Year 9/10 Polish Program through Beacon Foundation
• Write A Book In A Day
• Vaping Sessions – Royal Flying Doctors Service
• Speak Up Stay ChatTY
• Year 7-10 Mid-Year Reports and Parent Teacher Meetings
• Year 10 College Open Days at Launceston and Newstead Colleges
• Reading Buddies
• Premiers Reading Challenge
• Year 9/10 Launceston Airport Tour
• Year 9/10 PISA Testing - Science
• Hands on Learning
• 10/11/12 VET Courses
• 11/12 Open Afternoon
• Student Voice Workshops 7-12
• Student Leader Board (SLB) with Andy Beeston and Leadership Staff
• Port Sport Leaders assisting with 5/6 TPSSA Sport & Carnivals
• Year 10/11 Transition Plans
• Work-based Learning / ASbA / Apprenticeships
• Year 11 Career and Life Planning Sessions
• Whole School Assembly to recognise Attendance and Academic Achievement
• Flexible Programs – Soup Kitchen, Barista, Art Therapy, Woodwork
• Cultural Arts Program
• 7A Griffiths and 8B Scott Reward Lunches for having the highest Attendance Rates in sector
• 11/12 NEB Hub Expo
• KEEN Partners 11/12 Presentation
• The Resilience Project – Years 7-10
• Year 6/7 Transition in preparation for 2026
• Year 7-10 Assemblies

Events Coming Up: 

• R U OK? Day
• Footy Colours Day
• Book Week Activities & Dress Up (Week 5)
• Year 11/12 Reports (Week 5)
• 9/10 Duke of Ed and Port Sport Leaders Camp @ Derby

TPSSA Friday Sport

The first two rounds of 5/6 sport have been a big success. Students physical skills are improving in their respective sport as is their ability to work in a team, follow instructions and communicate with those around them. This gives students a connection to the school and local community and is providing them with an insight into the possibility of playing sport in a club environment.

Netball

The netball team are currently undefeated and proving to be very skilful. Most of the team are new to the sport but are coachable and keen which are top qualities to have. Rani and Evie are showing their experience and consistently playing strong games. Abbey and Amarli are also improving each game.

The leaders Lily-Rose, Jessie and Emily are proud of the girls so far and giving them extra trainings to further improve their skills.

Hockey

This team is also undefeated and proving quite the talented team. Jackson is demonstrating his experience at school and club level is valuable, he is scoring many goals and setting others up. Declan is improving with each game and is scoring many goals and is hard to stop! Aaron, Hope and Brax are all new to the sport but are enjoying the game and consistently playing well.

Delilah, Travis and Nate are developing some great talent in the team and are to be commended for the way they are interacting and leading the group.

Football

The Port (plus some South George Town students) football team is a lively and keen team that are enjoying the games and trainings. They have had some wins and some losses but will continue to improve with each round of sport. There are a handful of players who play club and quite a few who are showing some talent and hopefully decide to take their game to the next level. Brock, Imajen, Phoebe, Lucy, and Steele are just a few in this team who are demonstrating some good skills and with another training run this week they will be ready for round three.

Lizzy and Paige are doing a great job of organising equipment and the team each week. Dan is developing a strong rapport with the team and Kaeden is always keen to motivate and umpire.

Soccer

The soccer team are enjoying their games and winning some and experiencing some close losses in other games. They are eager to learn and seem to have fun training and during games. Phoenix, Lexi and Grace are demonstrating the value of playing club as well as school and Deegan and Kate have raw talent and improve each week.

Karlie, Jaz and Austin are valuable leaders and organise the trainings and games so all the students are included and learning.

Good luck to the students that try out for the Country Gold teams on Thursday! Enjoy the experience, be respectful, listen intently to feedback and advice and just go out there and do the best you can!

During Term 1 and 2 information has been consistently communicated and upheld by all staff when working with all students. During Term 3 and 4, Port Dalrymple School (PDS) will be holding various events to celebrate our Year 10 students, therefore we want parents, guardians, and carers to be aware of the positive ways of working that will ensure their involvement and invitation to these events.

To afford the opportunities for every young person in Year 10, we wish to ensure every family understands the expectations for attendance at our celebration events. Please read the following information carefully:

Attendance must be consistently positive, and students must engage in their learning.

• When absent, parents must explain the absence and present a doctor’s certificate for over 3 days away. This can be done via the office (phone call or text).
• Students attendance for the second part of the year must be above 85% unless illness is explained and verified as the reason for absence.
• Students are required to complete all learning tasks for assessment

Punctual and organised for classes.

• Students must be on time and have appropriate learning resources to engage in the class.
• Students must remain in classes and follow the 'out of class procedure' if they need to leave for a reasonable purpose or arrangement (bathroom, student support appointment, etc).

School uniform must be worn each day and for all school activities.

• Hoodies are not to be worn on school site or any school-based activity
• Appropriate length shorts are expected for the comfort of others

Respectful behaviour and positive relationships create a place of belonging for all.

Students are required to follow the whole school expectations of “This is how we do it here.”

• Follow instructions first time, every time
• Respect ourselves, others and our environment
• Accept the consequences of our behaviour
• Respect other’s differences and strengths
• Ensure our actions and choices impact on others positively

Behaviour within the school and in the community must be of a high standard. This includes:

• Demonstrating a high level of positive regard for all within the school community.
• Being respectful and having thoughtful behaviour towards teachers, peers, and community members both inside and outside of school.
• Respect for school facilities and resources is a requirement of all students.

Completion of set tasks is very important. If major assessment tasks are outstanding, you may be required to complete these before receiving an invitation to a celebratory event.

• Ensure students have completed Year 10 transition plans

Discussions with parents will be held for ongoing and repeated incidents. This includes green cards, internal and external suspensions, and refusal to participate in class.

2025 Year Events and Requirements

Events:

• Thursday 11^th  December – Presentation Assembly from 1pm 
• Monday 15^th  December – Year 10 Celebration Dinner from 5:30pm - Pier Hotel
• Tuesday 16^th December – Year 10 Activity Day from 8:45am
• Thursday 18^th December – Years 7-10 last day Celebration Event

This information is to set high expectations and to promote positive learning outcomes for all students. Students are aware that to receive an invitation to the Celebration Events at the end of the year they must make a conscious effort to be Safe, Supportive, and Successful, and uphold the school values in their daily actions. Students and parents must remember that participating in the Activity day and the Celebration Dinner are school events that require ongoing positive student engagement across the year for students to be invited to attend.

A letter outlining the above information and other key messages was sent home last term with your child’s attendance rate, and another during the holidays. Please contact your childs home group teacher for support to ensure we can scaffold the requirements to enable everyone to participate.

In 1-2A we have learnt about Information Reports and how we can write one.

We wrote an Information Report on a selected animal and then with the help of Mrs Wheldon, we created a portrait of that animal with a background that matches their natural habitat.