We have had a very productive and positive term to date, and I am thrilled to take a moment to highlight one of the cornerstones of our school's success: the unwavering commitment of our exceptional staff. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of each term with ongoing changes and developments, it is the dedication, passion, and hard work of our educators and support staff that truly sets us apart.

Our school's success is a result of a collective effort. Our staff members share a common vision of providing quality education, fostering a nurturing environment, and nurturing the growth of our young people. This shared commitment of working together fuels our school's progress and ensures that every student receives the best possible learning experience.

I am consistently inspired by the dedication our staff demonstrates daily. They go above and beyond their roles to create enriching lessons, support students' emotional well-being, and contribute to a positive school culture. Their willingness to invest time, effort, and care into their work exemplifies their commitment to the success and growth of our students. This commitment to ensuring every student is known, well, safe and learning translates into an enriched learning environment for our students.

Strong staff commitment also extends to fostering a supportive and collaborative community. Our educators work together to share insights, strategies, and resources, ensuring that our students benefit from a well-rounded education. This sense of unity and shared purpose elevates our school to new heights.

Our staff members are more than educators; they are role models. They exemplify qualities such as integrity, empathy, and resilience, teaching our students valuable life skills beyond the curriculum. By demonstrating these qualities, they inspire our students to become responsible and compassionate individuals.

It's important to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our staff. Throughout the year, we make it a point to celebrate their achievements and express our gratitude for their contributions. Whether it's through staff appreciation events, recognition programs, or simply acknowledging their efforts, we want our staff to know how much they mean to us.

As we move forward, I have every confidence that our staff's commitment will continue to shape the success of our school. Their tireless efforts and genuine passion for education set a high standard that inspires us all. Together, we will continue to create an environment where our students thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. This week we have farewelled a truly dedicated educator. Laura Gale has transferred to Evandale Primary School for the remainder of the year. We know she will add value to the school community and will continue to support young people with passion, integrity and dedication. Good Luck Laura. 

Teacher Assistants Appreciation Week

We continue to work collectively as a team to support all our young people and from 28^th August until 1^st September, we have acknowledged the work of our Teacher Assistants and Paraprofessionals for Teacher Assistants Appreciation Week. Students across the school shared insights of support, care and comfort that having a key adult allows to improve their learning. Students made flowerpots, bath bombs and a morning tea was held. The role of a Teacher Assistants has changed significantly over the years, and they are a role model that supports academic growth, provides a safety net to try new tasks and are pivotal in building positive relationships and social skills’ within the school community.

Book Week

I was thrilled to see the success of our annual Book Week, a time of enchantment, adventure, and boundless imagination. It brings me immense joy to witness the excitement and passion for reading that envelops our school during this special week. This year, our theme of "Read, Grow, Inspire," and the lineup of events and activities certainly created fun, laughter and joy to many. Over the week students had many opportunities to immerse them selves in books, stories and characters. Staff, students, Administrative Staff and Teacher Aides all enjoyed Character Dress Up and sharing their favourite stories. The treasure hunt was a hit with many and the collaborative puzzle and colourings we shared across the grades. A massive thank you to Miss Knibbe and Mrs Mowat for their effort in promoting such a special week.

Transition

As we embrace the changing seasons and the passage of time, we are reminded that transitions are an inevitable part of life's journey. Whether it's moving from one grade to another, entering a new school year, or stepping into a fresh chapter of life, transitions provide us with opportunities to learn, grow, and discover our inner strengths. Transitions can often be accompanied by a mix of excitement and apprehension. It's important to remember that change is an adventure waiting to unfold. As we stand at the threshold of new experiences, let us approach these transitions with open hearts and open minds, ready to explore the uncharted territories ahead. At our school, we recognize the significance of smooth transitions in promoting students' overall well-being and academic success. Our educators and support staff are dedicated to creating an environment where students feel supported and empowered during times of change. We provide resources, mentorship, and guidance to help students navigate the path ahead with confidence. Transitions teach us valuable life skills, including resilience and adaptability. They encourage us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace new challenges. By facing these challenges head-on, we develop the skills we needed to overcome obstacles, cope with uncertainty, and emerge stronger on the other side. This week we had a group of parents and students attend a school tour that showcased the many resources and learning opportunities within Port Dalrymple School.

To our students, I encourage you to embrace transitions as windows of opportunity. Embrace the chance to learn, to meet new friends, to explore your passions, and to shape your own path. Remember that the challenges you face today will become the strength you carry with you tomorrow. As we navigate transitions together, whether it be from Kinder to Prep, Year 6/7 of from Year 10/11 and all the others in between, I am confident that our school community will continue to thrive. By nurturing a spirit of resilience, fostering open communication, and celebrating our achievements, we can make every transition a steppingstone toward a brighter and more fulfilling future. At the heart of our school's success is the strong sense of community that we share. Parents, teachers, and students collaborate to create an environment where each individual feels valued and supported. I encourage open communication and active participation from everyone as we work together to create an atmosphere of respect, empathy, and inclusivity.

Education is not confined to the four walls of a classroom. Our school is a hub of diverse extracurricular activities that allow students to discover and nurture their passions outside the academic realm. Whether it's participating in sports, joining clubs, or engaging in artistic pursuits, these activities enrich the overall learning experience and contribute to the holistic development of our students.

Presentation Assembly

Our 2023 Presentation Assembly will see an adjustment to the time. Historically this event has been held outside of school hours in the evening. We wish to have this part of a whole school celebration, with students, invited parents and community stakeholders attending. The Presentation Assembly will take place on Tuesday 19th December 2023 at 12:45pm.

As we move through Term 3 into Term 4, it's essential to keep our long-term goals in mind. For our Year 10 students, this term holds a special significance as they prepare to take their next steps in education or beyond. Let us provide them with the guidance, mentorship, and encouragement they need to confidently embrace the future. The Year 10 Celebration Dinner will be held on Thursday 14^th December at the George Town Football Club - more info to come.

I am excited to share with you the remarkable journey of learning that our students are embarking upon through the power of Hands on Learning (HoL). At Port Dalrymple School we believe that learning is not confined to textbooks and classrooms alone – it's an experience that comes alive when students engage their minds and hearts in interactive, tangible ways. Last week we had Lisa Vagg, Hands on Learning National Partnership Manager and Erin Stuart, School Support Manager Northern Tasmania visited the HoL Kindness Café at Port Dalrymple School and chatted with students and was overwhelmed how positive the experience has been to date. Our Kindness Café has been catering for staff lunches of a Tuesday with the Chicken Cesar Salad being my favourite to date.

Feedback from Lisa was we are in awe of what your students are achieving at Port Dalrymple in Hands on Learning such a short time. She congratulated us and our amazing team of students and artisan teachers, Mrs Kay and Fran.

Lisa also spoke to other to help her understand the influence and impact of the provision so far.

“I’m almost 50 and that was the best Caesar Salad I have EVER had.”

Tom, school nurse

“It’s the best place. It’s a good little group. We keep focused, there’s no drama, no real arguments. You can control your anger. You can make new friends in here and it’s a happy place.  When we first started, we needed partners to do a job, but now we can work alone we are so good at it. We get to cook food for teachers, and I’m excited they get to try our food.”

Ella, Year 4

“We work really well as a team in HoL. A lot of communication happens in this kitchen, we try to understand each other’s thoughts. Getting set a certain task in HoL and having to finish it helps me back in class to keep and eye on what I’m doing and finish the job. My attention span is improving. I still find it difficult in class, but I see myself slowly getting better since I’ve been part of HoL.”

Octavia Year 8

“I’ve only been in here a few weeks but its really good, very helpful.  I love maths so when we get the orders from the office on the way back, I add them up in my head to see how much we have made.”

Caleb, Year 6

“ It’s fun, we get to cook and we get morning tea.”

Lily, Year 5

It’s really good in HoL because you get to meet new people and it boosts your confidence talking to new people. It’s comfortable in here, everyone’s nice and always helping other people.”

Breanna, Year 6

“It’s fun.  It’s really enjoyable to work as a team, to be part of this team. Since I’ve been working in here for a while it feels safe and you feel joy. It’s the working together, everyone having fun,  just enjoying it.”

Gracie, Year 6

“It teaches you how to engage with new people. I figured out how to ask people when I need it.  It helps to have new things you can discuss, new conversation starters basically.”

Lilli-Jane, Year 6

“I feel excited in HoL. It’s really fun. I can learn new recipes and it is really exciting working with other people and talking to new people.”

Kyson, Year 5

Dual Naming of the George Town Library

The Kinimathatakinta/George Town Hub dual naming ceremony was officially opened by Sophie, Kai and Kobi and with Susan, the Community Engagement Officer for the Future Impact Group.

Our students have played an active role in a number of community events and we are proud of the growth and confidence we see in them, connecting and belonging to our community.

Work Placements

Students from Years 9 -12 have been participating in or about to engage in various work placements within our community. Work placements are structured within a block of one to two weeks, or one day per week over several weeks.

On-Line Learning

To support our students, we have introduced a more rigorous on-line learning platform for our Y9-10 students where they are now accessing a program called STILE for science and continuing to use CANVAS across curriculum areas such as maths. This is designed to provide students with consistency in content and delivery.

Year 10 Exams

During the first 4 weeks of Term 3, Year 10 students were involved in a study period that led to undergoing core subject exams in weeks 3 and 4. Students displayed solid study habits and were able to complete five exams in one week. Although exams can be stressful, this period of study and participating in completing exams provides our Year 10 students with valuable practice as they progress to the next stage of their lives with further education, training, and employment.

NHSSA Sport

Students continue to participate in the NHSSA winter sports roster where the school has teams in boys and girls football, mixed soccer, and netball. With finals starting in week 7 and grand finals in week 8, some of our teams have a good chance of progressing through the finals. All participating students have represented the school with pride and displayed great effort each week.

Mindfulness with Mon

Each Wednesday morning from week 4-6 in Term 3, Year 9 and 10 students are involved in a mindfulness program delivered by mindfulness coach, Monique. These sessions involve Yoga; how to keep your mind and body healthy; and practical food and nutrition information to assist students with their physical, social and emotional wellbeing.

Y9/10 History

Year 9 students are currently studying the ‘Great War’ WW1 in history and learning about some historical battles such as Gallipoli and how soldiers were exposed to trench warfare. Year 10 students are studying WW2 and were lucky enough to have some authentic European WW2 artefacts to look at in their class. Having a good understanding of our country’s involvement in these wars enables our students to have a better appreciation of the sacrifices our ANZAC’s have made throughout Australian history.

Excursions

Year 9-12 students have recently or will shortly participate in the following excursions:

• Australian Defence Force visited PDS to share opportunities available in the defence forces post school.
• Newstead College and Launceston College productions.
• Timberlink visited PDS to introduce a new apprenticeship program.
• Bell Bay Aluminium visit. Bell Bay Aluminium are offering a hands-on program for students in Years 10 to build their career awareness and work-ready skills.
• PE Communities on the Move Unit. Students have been participating in sports and activities that can be found in the George Town and Launceston community. Students will go on an excursion to Launceston Lanes to participate in Ten-Pin Bowling in week 8.
• Monash University Future Skills Workshop at Newstead College in week 8.

The Assembly for Excellence was held on Tuesday 15th August, 2023.

Well done to our students. 

Merit Certificates  K - 4 assembly, week 3.

Scholastic Book Club closes Thursday 14th September 2023.

Orders and money can be left at the Port Dalrymple School Student Office

On Friday, 15th of September, the JLB (Junior Leadership Board) are holding a Crazy Hair Day for our Prep to Year 6 students. Our Kinder students will have their Crazy Hair Day on Tuesday 19th of September.

Our aim for the Crazy Hair Day is to celebrate our differences like race, religion, body image, height, culture and everyone belongs no matter how different we are.

We will have some fun activities running at lunch time on the blue courts for all primary school students, including an opportunity to make your hair crazy if you haven’t already done this at home.

We have been very busy in our K-4 sector in Term 3! 

In week 4, we celebrated Science Week and explored different things like magnets, mixing various ingredients and force. 

The next week was Book Week and we all had a wonderful time celebrating with a Prep-1 excursion to the George Town Library, our special dress up day, reading with buddy classes from high school, the puzzle scavenger hunt and the book fair.

Some other things that we have celebrated this term are:

• The new buddy seat in the Prep yard made by the Year 9/10 construction students
• The new garden in Kinder that the students in Kinder and 5/6A planted
• TA appreciation week
• 1/2 excursion to see the Hiccup performance at the Princess Theatre

This morning our Youth Networker Jayne, along with members of the Junior Leadership Board spoke to the Kindergarten students about the importance of having breakfast. 

Skipping breakfast can make us feel tired, restless and irritable.  The reason for this is our brain requires food for fuel, just as our muscles do.  While our muscles can use stored energy from food we ate yesterday, our brain prefers energy from food we have eaten recently.

We are grateful at Port Dalrymple to have breakfast club running across our whole school – Kindergarten to Year 12.  It is one less worry for parents knowing their child can access breakfast at school and a big thank you to our amazing sponsors Woolworths George Town, Rio Tinto Aluminium Bell Bay and Blackwoods for helping to make this happen.

Thanks to Jenny and Carlene who continue to teach us the valuable skill of sewing.  Sewing is held in the library every Tuesday at lunch time. We have just finished our cushions that we get to take home.