Eastern Fleurieu R-12 Newsletter Week 7 Term 1 2024

R-12

Principal’s Report

Dear all,

I hope you are all surviving the heat wave and like me are looking for some slightly cooler weather but not too cool.

I need to bring to your attention the following new regulations.

Smoke-free and vape-free areas – new regulations.

From 1 March 2024 new regulations have extend the smoke-free and vape-free areas to within 10 metres of school site boundaries.

This includes:

• school drop-off and pick-up zones that are within 10 metres of the school fence, gate, or boundary.
• school ovals and sporting fields and within 10 metres of the boundary of the oval or sporting field.
• footpaths, roads, public nature strips and public recreation areas that are within 10 metres of a school boundary.

Last year I wrote an article on the harms of vaping in schools and have provided a summary of that message for your perusal.

Some facts about the Vaping scourge sweeping Australia.

A recent University study showed 32% of students between 13-17 had tried Vaping across Australia.

Many have reported how easy it is to purchase Vapes, but the most alarming data is that they are addicted to nicotine and need help beating that addiction.

I have put together several significant reasons why school students should avoid Vaping, especially due to the high nicotine content in many Vape products:

• Addiction: Nicotine is a highly addictive substance. Young people are particularly susceptible to addiction, and early exposure to nicotine can lead to long-term dependence. Many students are already addicted and can be after the first Vape. Unfortunately, they and their parents do not know this until it is too late.

• Brain Development/Health Risks: The brain continues to develop until about age 25. Nicotine exposure can harm the developing brain, affecting learning, memory, attention, and impulse control. Nicotine use in adolescence is linked to increased risk of future mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. Vaping can cause other serious health issues, including lung damage and respiratory problems. The long-term health effects of vaping are still being studied, but early evidence suggests significant risks.

• Peer pressure/Academic Performance: Nicotine addiction can affect concentration and academic performance. Students may be more focused on when they can vape next rather than on their studies. Peer pressure can play a big role in why students start vaping and the misconceptions that vaping is harmless, and one won’t hurt you.

• Cost: Vaping can be an expensive habit, especially for students who might rely on limited personal or family funds. This also leads to students becoming dealers and selling to others to support their addiction. And as with any addiction the need to feed the addiction more often than not leads to crime and or other substance abuse/addiction.

In South Australia, as in every other state, it's illegal for minors to purchase and use vaping products.

Hence the new regulations and banning of Vaping Products being imported into Australia.

Additionally, schools across the state have policies against vaping, and students caught vaping may face disciplinary action.

However, we know that this is not the long-term answer especially when students are addicted. EFS staff are using high impact teaching and learning strategies to support students in making the right choices through them being very aware of all the personal risks and consequences attributed to Vaping.

The school has trained Youth Workers in Drugs, Alcohol and Vaping Counselling to support our students who may be finding it hard to stop using vapes. Students who are caught vaping at school will need to undergo a minimum of 3 sessions with a Youth Worker as part of the Student Behaviour Management Process. Students can also be referred to other agencies (see below), for student and family support when needed or requested.

A series of parent awareness resources and strategies for working with your children/young people will be developed to support you. Understanding and communicating the risks of Vaping is crucial in discouraging school students from starting or continuing to Vape. The school is here to provide education and support to our students and that’s where our responsibility should end but as always, we know that working in partnership with parents will have the biggest effect on anything we do.

However, as parents it is your responsibility to be aware of the dangers of Vaping, start conversations with your children about the topic/risks, set very clear expectations around behaviour and those of the school/community we live in and seek support for you and your family if needed.

If you suspect or are worried about your child Vaping, please contact the school and we will provide you with some advice on how to seek support. Below is a list of some relevant support services available:

Headspace for mental health support

Mission Australia Drug and Alcohol Youth Outreach Service

Uniting Communities Streetlink Youth Health Service

Fortunately, the incidents of Vaping at school have decreased significantly and we are hopeful that this trend will continue.

It was a pleasure to be invited to present our schools work over the past 6 years at the State Leaders Conference in Adelaide recently. It was reaffirming to know that our journey has placed us in a very good position to continuously improve in the Areas of Impact as out lined in the new DfE Strategy for Public Education (see below).

I will discuss this with you in more detail in the next newsletter.

Warm Regards,
Ian Kent
Principal
Eastern Fleurieu R-12 School

Term Dates 2024

Eastern Fleurieu School R-12 Important dates

Australian Government School Student Broadband Initiative (SSBI), providing free home internet for unconnected families with school age students.

In 2023, the Australian Government established the School Student Broadband Initiative (SSBI) to provide free home internet until 31/12/2025 for up to 30,000 unconnected families with school age students. 

Giving unconnected students the opportunity to access fast and reliable broadband internet at home is important to support their learning and education in an increasingly digital world. 

NBN Co is leading implementation of this initiative and is working closely with industry, government and community organisations that support the wellbeing of families who could benefit from the SSBI.

Families can find out more or sign up by contacting the National Referral Centre on 1800 954 610 (Mon-Fri, 10am-6pm AEDT) - or by visiting the website: www.anglicarevic.org.au/student-internet.

2024 SACE Art Show

Congratulations to April and Bree (Year 12 students 2023) who have both had artwork selected for the 2024 SACE Art Show!

April was selected for her piece ‘The Kondoli Dreaming Story’, while Bree received two successful entries with ‘The Journey’ and ‘Euphoric Nostalgia’.

A huge congratulations to these two incredible young people!

A special mention should also go to Ms Turpin and Ms Rosser, for their commitment and dedication to these young artists across their school journey.

If you’re interested in attending the 2024 SACE Art Show, the details are below.

BYOD – Bring Your Own Device to 7-12 Campus

Purchase your laptop here

Would you like to host an international student?

Information:

Apply here:  

Out of School Hours Care (OSHC)

R-12 School Uniform

EFS School Uniform Shop
9a Callington Road, Strathalbyn SA 5255

Term Time Open Hours

Tuesdays 8:30 – 10:45am
Thursdays 3:45 – 5:45pm

For uniform enquiries outside of our open hours, contact Ms Julie Martin.  

Bubbells Embroidery 

Phone: 0417 771 944           Email:bubbells@adam.com.au

If our open hours don’t suit you, we can take email and phone orders and we can arrange remote purchases for your convenience. 

Community News

ASHBOURNE CAMPUS

14 Ashbourne Road, Ashbourne SA 5157 Ph: 8536 2455

Head of Campus Report

It has been a positive few weeks at our campus, the students have demonstrated the new school values daily as well as the new EFS consistent routines. It is pleasing to see the students working well together, displaying kindness and respect for themselves, each other and all the staff. We as a staff are looking forward to witnessing our students continue to grow in all areas of the values, Determination, Integrity, Teamwork and Respect over the year.

It was wonderful to have 13 of our 17 families join us for our ‘Open Family Afternoon’, the children loved showing their parents and grandparents their learning spaces, the play areas and our scrub. The afternoon warmed my heart. Ashbourne campus has such a strong community connection with our families, watching the families sit on the grass area chatting and laughing was a joy to see. The children and families enjoyed their sausage and the relaxed feel of the afternoon.

We have several short school weeks ahead with Small Campus Sports Day and the Easter long weekend. We hope that all families can come and enjoy Sports Day on Friday, 22^nd March at Langhorne Creek Campus. We also want to wish our families a safe and chocolate filled Easter.

Regards,
Rebekah Fahey
Head of Campus

Bush Day

Our last three Bush days have been very hot, the students have demonstrated how resilient they are, managing the hot days and working through all the activities still with their usual enthusiasm and excitement.

Shane (teacher), Darcy (SSO) and I share the role of the explicit morning lessons and over the last four weeks the children have learnt about blizzards, volcanoes, bush fires and floods. They have made their own volcanoes with some amazing eruptions. They have designed bush fire trucks, helicopter and aeroplanes based on what they think would be needed to fight a fire. This week they created a river system, with dams, housing and farm animals and then watched what happens when a flood comes through (riverine flood). 

The children are making their own houses to withstand a natural disaster of their choice. The critical thinking, creativity and collaboration that has gone into these is exceptional. 

As part of book club we have focussed on First Nation picture books and discussed the topics and message of the text through our weekly Yarning Circle. I love listening to the students and their connection to country (including all aspects of the landscape, land, sea, waters, air, plants, animals, hills).

Bryn’s (SSO) games are a HUGE hit on our bush day, he is very creative in the games he designs and how he connects them to our theme. The students look forward to this each week. This week we played a mountain climbing game, where they had to get to the top of their mountain with their group and not get wiped out in an avalanche.

Assembly

We had our first assembly last Thursday, Acacia class lead the assembly. It was fabulous to see so many parents stay and join us. The students shared what they had learnt at their swimming lessons, reflected on bush school so far and showed off their amazing art work of the leafy sea dragon and other sea animals.  The awards in Hakea went to Jebediah and Lola for Character. In Acacia Seth got an award for Character and Eli for Critical Thinking.

SpellEx

In the Acacia class we are implementing a new spelling programs. The children have taken to this program quickly, connecting their prior spelling understanding and knowledge, whist learning new spelling rules and concepts.  Both Robyn and Rebekah have been impressed by the student’s enthusiasm and their ability to learn, retain and apply these new rules and concepts in the lessons and in their literacy lessons.

Hakea Art

Each week Mrs Redsell does an Art lesson with her class. They have completed their first art piece on themselves at Ashbourne campus, they have also drawn and painted their best day and their family. I think the art all looks amazing and very creative. Keep up the creativity Hakea class.

Dates to Remember

LANGHORNE CREEK CAMPUS

Bridge Road, Langhorne Creek SA 5255    Ph: 8536 2455

Head of Campus Report

Students and staff have been digging in deep with their learning over the past few weeks. Along with positive experiences in helping as we make our move into the new classroom spaces. Our Eastern Fleurieu School Consistent Routines have been a great way to support students with settling back into school. Some of our Year 3 students have participated in the NAPLAN practice test, this is to ensure IT systems are working. Students in Years 3 and 5 will participate in NAPLAN commencing Wednesday, 13^th March to Monday, 25^th March.

Nazz our Pastoral Care Worker organised Pancake Day on Tuesday, 13^th February with our wonderful volunteer Wendy, from our local church. Wendy supported our School Captains and Vice Captains to prepare and cook pancakes with our newly elected School Captains. They did a great cook up and provided a delicious pancake treat for recess for everyone.

LC Pancake Day

On Friday, 1^st March students enjoyed their final PE lesson with Mr K.  Students and staff gathered on the deck at the end of recess to thank Mr K for his work, wishing him well on his new position. School Captains Sam and Lexi shared some kind words of gratitude for Mr K’s work with us over the past 12 years. They then presented him with a gift on behalf of students and staff. Students cheered Mr K as he shared his enjoyment of working with us, he will dearly miss working with us all. Students then created a tunnel for Mr K to pass through as he exited Langhorne Creek Campus for the last time.

In Week 6 we elected our Student Representative Council (SRC) for 2024. Students in Years 3, 4 and 5 prepared a speech to share why they should be elected for SRC. The Reception – Year 2 students did a vote in class after class discussion about SRC and what this entails. Our 2024 Student Class Representatives are; Poppy, Ada, Maddi, Lincoln, Hudson along with our School Captains and Vice Captains, Sam, Lexi, Khiyaden and Aidan.

With Sports Day nearly here, the election took place for House Captains. Congratulations to Lincoln, Rupert and Archie. We look forward to their leadership on the day. Each House Captain has prepared chants for the day along with helping to set up on the day.

We are very pleased to have had some time with Jane to work with students to clear and tidy garden beds, edge garden area, then spread mulch giving our school garden a much needed lift. Over the remainder of the term we are looking to prepare the foundation for the Propagation Shed with a base for paving. If anyone has some clean fill we could lay underneath the base for our Propagation Shed please contact Vicki. Following this if any parents are able to offer some time to help us to place the pavers we will be very grateful for your support. Then our next project will be to erect the Propagation Shed. If anyone is experienced in this area please call Vicki at the school to organise a time to help out.

Looking forward to the remainder of this term.

Regards,
Les Cameron
Head of Campus

News from the Kind Koalas - Miss Anna and Miss Hannah

Maths

We have started our algebra unit in the koala class. We have looked at sorting and are now looking at patterns. We looked at both repeating and visual patterns. We put our detective hats on and went outside on the hunt for patterns. We saw lots of them all around us.

The orange and blue chess board is a pattern. – Stella

The people and flower decoration on the wall are in a pattern. – Isabella

Trees have patterns. – Dean

The deck is in a pattern. – Eli G

LC Koalas Maths

Inquiry

In our Inquiry lessons we have been learning and asking questions about birds. We have done see, think and wonders to open our curiosity about the birds around us. We looked at beaks in our recent lesson. We answered questions like why do birds have beaks/why do they look different/what do they use beaks for? We then made our own beaks out of making parts thinking about what we wanted our beaks to be able to do. These turned out great and were lots of fun to make.

LC Koalas Inquiry

Assembly

Congratulations to our Week 5 Assembly Award winners.

A brief note from Nazz

I can’t believe how quickly this year is disappearing!  It’s been a really busy start to the year so far and I have enjoyed supporting students and staff during swimming week, in the classroom and in the yard.

My focus for the year is very much on student wellbeing, strategies to use when trying to manage big and hard to have feelings, and also building resilience.  In Week 4 I began to introduce some of the students to “Kimochi’s” (Kimochi is the Japanese word for feelings), and I’ll be doing Kimochi sessions once per fortnight to complement other wellbeing sessions.

Over the coming weeks/months I’ll be introducing the Kimochi characters to the students – each one has unique characteristics and a story to tell.  Kimochi’s help to illustrate, through story-telling, how some behaviours can impact upon relationships with friends, and the strategies that students can develop that can to help them recognise and manage their feelings.  Over the next few weeks I’m planning on introducing the two characters below to the students and I’m really looking forward to seeing how they interact with them, and begin learning how to build strategies to help regulate their feelings.

CLOUD is a bit unpredictable. One day he is happy, the next he is angry, and the next day—who knows, maybe sad or even happy again. Cloud lives in the big sky and loves to travel across the treetops paying visits to all his friends.

CLOUD helps kids learn how to regulate their tone of voice, body language, words, and actions; feel mad without being mean.

CAT knows what she wants, when she wants it and why. Cat can be very persuasive. When she makes up her mind there is no stopping her. When the Kimochis need a leader, they can always count on Cat. She loves to be in charge but can sometimes be a bit bossy.

CAT helps kids learn how to apologise and forgive; make safe, wise, kind choices; manage cranky feelings.

Take care everyone.

Regards,
Narelle Vaughan
Pastoral Care Worker – Thursdays.

Playgroup

Over the last few weeks we have celebrated Love Your Pet Day, Kidsafe Summer's Day and National Sea Week. We talked about our pets, read animal stories and sang animal songs. The children enjoyed a Sprinkler Fun Day, had fun with sea creatures with water play and experimented with the aqua play and boats.

Our new indoor play space is now complete, and all children and families are enjoying the beautiful space. Next week we are having a Pyjama Day. We will then celebrate Harmony Day in Week 8.

Dates to Remember

MILANG CAMPUS

Cnr Cox and Rivers Street, Milang SA 5256     Ph: 8536 2455

Head of Campus Report

It’s been a very busy term so far with two excursions for the Junior Primary class and two booked for the Upper Primary class. The students really enjoyed their Fringe Show at Goolwa which had an interesting recycling twist on the Red Riding Hood fairy tale. We have received a new set of bins for the campus allowing us to do further separation of our rubbish now having a green waste bin for compost and a larger cardboard bin. It’s taking a little time to get used to, but most of us now know which bin to use! We are all very excited to announce that we have booked our annual camp this year to the Adelaide Zoo! We will be staying for two nights from Wednesday, 5^th June to Friday, 7^th June which will just be an amazing experience as well as exploring some of the attractions of the City during the day. Our fundraising efforts always subsidise the camp for everyone so the cost to families will be $100, actual price $200. Payment plans can be made with Donna at any time.

Hope to see everyone at Sports Day!

Regards,
Susannah Cook
Head of Campus

Playgroup

Over the last few weeks we have celebrated Love Your Pet Day, Kid Safe Summer's Day and National Sea Week. We talked about our pets, read animal stories and sang animal songs. The children enjoyed a Sprinkler Fun Day, had fun with sea creatures with water play, engaged with coloured water painting and experimented with the aqua play and boats.

This term we have welcomed several new families to playgroup. Next week we are having a Pyjama Day. We will then celebrate Harmony Day in Week 8.

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Junior Primary Learning

To kick-start our learning about the history of the railway in Milang, the Junior Primary class went on an excursion to visit the Milang Railway Station. Luckily for us, the station is just down the road and the weather was perfect so we were able to easily walk there. One of the volunteers Peter, showed us lots of interesting things about the original railway. We had lots of fun as we weighed ourselves on the big cargo scales, made phone calls from one carriage to another, pressed lots of different buttons and climbed on some old railway equipment. The highlight for all of us was taking a ride on the carriages around the railway track. We had an awesome day and if you’re ever down Milang way, don’t forget to call in for a day of fun and history all rolled into one.

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As part of the Fringe Festival, we were invited to see a theatre production of ‘Little Red in the Hood’. The production presented the tale of Little Red Riding Hood with an unexpected twist with some learning about recycling mixed in with the story. Luckily for all of the characters, the story ended happily with the wolf finally beginning to see that recycling really does matter. We thought the production was lots of fun and were treated to a photo with all the cast at the end of the performance.

Upper Primary Learning

Our favourite dogs are back at Milang! This week the Year 6s welcomed back our Pawsawhile Labradors and trainer Annette. This term they will be working with the Year 6 students to develop their assertiveness and leadership skills. So far they have taught them to sit, drop and stay. 

The Upper Primary have been learning about the food chain and made models and posters this week to show their understanding of producers, consumers and decomposers. 

Happenings at Milang

On Friday, 8^th March  the students were asked to join the Working with Country Ngarrindjeri Land and Plants Programme team and plant a selection of native shrubs and bushfood plants at the Butter Factory.

This is a great thing to be a part of working collaboratively with our community and also learning about the native plants.

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Assembly

Junior Primary class led the assembly in Week 6 and showed us some of their Art work. Marley and Cedar received awards and our school captains received their badges.

Alastair and Harley are Captains and Kaiden is Vice Captain.

Bonnie’s Break times

Hi everyone.

I hope the year has started well for you and your families. For those of you who don't know, my name is Bonnie and I work each Thursday as Milang's Pastoral Care Worker. My job at the school involves looking out for the wellbeing of the students, staff and families connected with the school. At the moment, that looks like assisting teachers in classrooms and helping children with their learning, running activities during break times and being available for parents and students to have a chat. This term, I am running lunchtime activities that focus on friendship and emotions, through crafts and other activities. This is to support what children are learning in their classrooms and to have some fun! As I'm also here to support you, our school families, please feel free to touch base if you ever need a
friendly face to chat to!

Bonnie
Pastoral Care Worker
Bonnie.edgecomb143@schools.sa.edu.au 

Reminders from Donna

Hats 

Hats are required now at all play times and PE lessons.  Donna has some new hats available for $10.

Donna also has some second hand uniform items for sale.

Book Club

Orders due 28^th March.

Sports Day

Sports Day is coming up on Friday, 22^nd March at Langhorne Creek Campus.  Consent forms have been sent home with a meal deal.  Please return these by Thursday, 14^th March.  Please check with me if you are unsure of which team your child is in.  Parents are welcome to attend this event.

Attendance 

Please always contact the school if your child is late, call or come in and sign a yellow slip.  Also if your child is away or someone else is picking them up.  If we don’t hear from you your child’s absence is marked as unexplained.  A message from another student is not enough, we need to hear from a parent. If you are picking your child up early please come into the office and complete a green slip. 

Please continue to follow the guidelines for keeping us all safe.  If you need to come on site, please ensure you are sanitising when entering any buildings. Keep your visits brief and social distance at all times. 

Personal data checks

Please return any personal data checks that were sent home in a mail out in January with any changes and initial each page please. If there are no changes, please still initial and send back.

Dates to Remember

STRATHALBYN R-6 CAMPUS

34 East Terrace, Strathalbyn SA 5255     Ph: 8536 2455

Heads of Campus Report

Farewell Mr K

It was a wonderful send off for Mr K, winning a new position at Wilderness Girls School as Director of Sport and Recreation.  In addition to our farewell at assembly, a staff morning tea and Friday farewell R-12 were enjoyed.

We shared some stats at our recent assembly.

• Mr K has been at EFS for 12 years
• 17 PE lessons per week = 8160 lessons
• John (school captain) estimated that Mr K had pumped up over 50000 balls
• Supported 192 house captains
• Over 60 sporting events from Sports Day to SAPSASA events
• Supported over 100 Year 10/11 students through different events
• Coordinated 11 schools SAPSASA program in District SAPSASA coordinator role
• Coached everything from footy, to swimming, track and field to softball

Darcy Springhall, Megan Hoad and Mandy Hopkins will pick up the PE roles across our campuses starting from Term 2.

Things we have loved at our campus this month:

• Our school captains running their first assembly, with Character our celebrated competency. It was great to see students accepting these awards out the front and parents proudly looking on.  Whole school assemblies are held in Week 5 and 10 and all are welcome.
• Choir group coming together, we look forward to showcasing these talented students at future assemblies and community events.
• Our new bin systems and sessions with Lizzie Scofield, tipping out the bins and sorting rubbish correctly to support correct disposal so we ‘leave no trace’ in our school yard.
• Wow, our new sign is fantastic and we keep chipping away at our facilities list with a new ramp and carpets being installed in the Activity Room over the coming weeks.
• Staff continuing to participate in quality professional learning through our staff meeting sessions working with Ms D on Numeracy Data and Assesments, Mel Pitt on DIBELS Reading Assessment and an excellent session with Ms Woolford and Ms Harris focussing on Autism Inclusion role and supporting our neurodiverse students at school.
  
• Continuing our work R-12 developing our Eastern Fleurieu strategy at our recent Student Free Day, delving deeper into linking the Department Public Education Strategy and specifically what makes an ‘Effective Learner’ to our work.

NAPLAN

As we go to print our Year 3 and Year 5 students are sitting their NAPLAN assessment.  NAPLAN is just one part of the tapestry of assessment tasks collected to monitor your child's progress.  We understand that these assessments can be stressful, but please rest assured that they are just one part of our holistic approach to education. Our focus remains on creating a supportive and engaging learning environment where every child can thrive.

Harmony Day

Just a reminder to pop on your favourite orange clothes on Thursday, 21^st March to celebrate diversity and harmony, Emma Harris and the team have lots of exciting activities happening on the day.

Uniform

Wearing a school uniform promotes a sense of unity and equality among students.

Uniforms also instil a sense of pride and belonging to the school community, fostering a positive school spirit.

Additionally, uniforms can enhance safety by making it easier to identify students on campus and ensuring they are dressed appropriately for the school environment. 

Thanks all for your support with ensuring that your children are in school uniform.

Just a few reminders in line with our Uniform policy

• White or blue long sleeves under tops
• No hoodies (we are doing really well with this)
• Blue or grey bottoms, no black

Moving into the winter months, if you are making new purchases, please work with above guidelines. 

We have a good range of second hand available and school can support if needed.

Regards,
Jo Garwood, Sophie Frost and Mel Pitt
Heads of Campus

Room 20 Update

Room 20’s Technology studies involve investigating food production and directional language and coding. We have had a great start to 2024. We have been investigating where our food comes from. Our Seed to Plate unit is helping us compare growing food in our home gardens and how food is grown on farms. We have loved hearing the experiences from our class members whose families are involved in food production. They love to share their personal photos and stories of riding the seeder machine and how the grain is collected. It has really made our learning come alive.

To develop our understanding of directional language we have begun learning how to use the BeeBots. Room 20 has enjoyed using the robots to practice giving directions and have begun learning to record these directions in an algorithm. This has been a very enjoyable way to finish the week.

Regards,
Hayley Reid and Lynley Driver

A Visit from Uncle Cedric

In Week 3 Team 28 and 26 were lucky enough to have a visit from Uncle Cedric Varcoe. Uncle Cedric is a proud Ngarrendjeri man and talented artist. We started our morning off in Tungaree where Uncle Cedric performed a traditional Smoking Ceremony, he spoke in Ngarrendjeri and welcomed us onto Country. He also shared with the classes about the difference between a ‘Welcome’ and an ‘Acknowledgement’ country. Back in the classroom there were lots of questions for Uncle Cedric! He also talked about the importance to taking care of the land and our miwi (our spirit). He shared a story called ‘Thukeri’ from the Dreaming and then taught us a range of different symbols that he uses in his artwork. The students then used the symbols and the knowledge they had learned from Uncle Cedric throughout the day to create their own artwork. The students used the experience from this day to develop their understanding and create a class 'acknowledgment of Country' that will become part of our Morning Circles. You can check out these amazing artworks displayed in the Front Office and in Team 28! 

Regards,
Donna Prusa and Emma Cooney

Swimming at Strath R-6

Swimming with Room 3

We have made a fantastic start to the year! Our class has been busy building an amazing community of learners and our class mantra is to Be Kind and Work Hard! We have also enjoyed our week of swimming with perfect weather.

Here are some photos of us!

Regards,
Belinda Parry and Monique Hausser

Making a Splash with Room 13

This term we were fortunate enough to be able to spend a week attending swimming lessons. The lessons were fun, engaging and informative. We were really fortunate to have 5 warm days to swim in which helped make the pool not as cold as previous years. Students practiced rescuing and being rescued, used PFD's and worked on their swimming stroked. Students were taught about the potential dangers that different bodies of water have and how to best avoid and identify them. 

I liked the swimming lessons because the instructors were really nice. - Clare

Swimming was really good, I got to learn some stuff that I didn't know, like how to safely get into a pool instead of just jumping in. - James

Swimming was good, the instructors were really nice and I learnt how to rescue someone. - Zara

Regards,
Darcy Springhall

Swimming and Water Safety with Room 14

Earlier this term, students enjoyed a wonderful week of swimming, developing a range of knowledge, skills, understanding and attitudes about water confidence and safety, survival swimming techniques, and life-saving rescues of others. Thankfully, the weather was on point and the students demonstrated excellent growth in various skills learnt.

I was in the blue swimming group with Amelia, Amari, Henry, Dexter, Tom and Ashton. We did surface diving for sinkys, learnt how to do survival backstroke, practised getting off a sinking boat safely and played a horse-riding game. I improved on my swimming skills and my knowledge of water safety has grown. I faced my fears which has made me improve! I learnt how to hold my breath under water for at least 10 seconds. - Hazel

We learnt how to do survival backstroke, dive for sinkys, call for help and understand the three Cs (Stay Calm. Can you float? Call for help). I improved on my water confidence and swimming ability. - Dexter

Izzy and Scarlett are in my swimming group. We were learning survival backstroke and we put our life jackets on in the water. - Morgan

In my swimming group we did two laps of survival backstroke. - Max

We learnt survival backstroke and we did surface dives for sinking toys. I have improved on my stroke technique, and I can kick my legs at the same time. - Hope

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Regards,
Cathy Hunt

Autism Inclusion at EFS

Our names are Emma Harris and Deb Woolford and we are the Autism Inclusion Teachers (AIT) at the Eastern Fleurieu School R-6 Campuses.

We are given one day a week in our AIT role to focus on strengthening our school community’s inclusion of students on the autism spectrum.

The Department for Education provides an Autism Inclusion Multidisciplinary (AIM) team to support us in the AIT role. The team includes, senior advisor educators, developmental educator, psychologist, occupational therapist, speech pathologist and an Aboriginal cultural project officer. The information from the AIM team is evidence-based and informed by the autistic and autism community.

Our role as an AIT is to pass on information, resources and training we receive from the AIM team to our colleagues. This term our focus is looking at the protective factor of school connectedness and the role positive peer relationships play in this.  As the term continues, we will be seeking student and caregiver voice around autism and neuro-divergence at school. 

If you have any questions or want to chat, we can be contacted through the office or via email. emma.harris653@schools.sa.edu.au and deb.woolford979@schools.sa.edu.au

Regards,
Emma Harris and Deb Woolford
AIT Teachers

Dates to Remember

STRATHALBYN 7-12 CAMPUS

11 Callington Road, Strathalbyn SA 5255    Ph: 8536 2455

Head of Campus Report

WHAT WENT WELL SINCE THE LAST NEWSLETTER?

Part of our daily EFS routine is to consider What Went Well? during each learning block. It seems fitting to summarise What Went Well since the last newsletter as there is so much to celebrate!  For me, the highlights were enhanced by the support and presence of many families who took time out to support their children with some significant achievements at the 7-12 Campus.

We were honoured to present our 2023 Dux, Fern, with her certificate in the presence of her parents in a whole school assembly; this was also an opportunity to announce our new House Captains and Student Leaders. It was wonderful to see other families in attendance.

Our Rite Journey events were also made very special by the large number of families present.  The Departure ceremony, which was hosted by students, was a significant and emotional event. The year 9s have been busy with their Challenge Days last week and, so far, seem to be taking things in their stride.

Our annual 7-12 Campus Sports Day was a fantastic event highlighted by the number of families who came out to support their children. Our newly appointed House Captains pulled out all the stops to ensure team spirit was at an ultimate high! The whole day was an energetic display of Determination and Teamwork.

I would like to express my sincere thanks to families who partner with us to celebrate the educational and extra-curricular achievements of our wonderful students.

STUDENT LEADERS

Student Leaders had their first meeting this week and have a huge agenda. Their thoughtful enthusiasm and excellent ideas around the topics raised were appreciated. We have formed several committees who will work with, and on behalf of, the student body on issues such as uniform (of course), positive recognition for students, publicity, the school environment and a review of house point allocations.

We will be introducing a new School Values Award for students; this will see more families hearing more frequently about their child’s demonstration of our core values through their actions in the school community.

Student Leaders also made suggestions about making data-informed decisions regarding the Mobile Devices Policy which could promote learner agency and accountability.

COMING SOON

After their success last year, we will be running more Open Days in 2024. Student Leaders will lead tours for families on two dates in both Term 1 and Term 2. We extend a warm welcome to new and current families who wish to attend to see what “a day in the life” of EFS students is like.

Learning conversations will happen in Week 1 of Term 2 and we encourage all families to book appointments with their child’s teachers when they become available. Term 1 reports will be available for students to reflect on and set goals against.

You may have noticed the new digital signage at the front of the school. Key events and dates will be advertised here along with our usual communication channels.

UNIFORM

It is at this point in the newsletter that I usually take the opportunity to remind families about school uniform expectations. I am delighted to say that, due to your considered efforts in supporting our goal around uniform compliance, and your willingness to work with us on this important issue, we have been able to resolve most challenges around uniform. On behalf of staff and students, thank you.

I look forward to seeing many of you in the coming weeks. 

Regards
Vanessa Coker
Director of Secondary Education

Important Dates to Remember

DUX of 2023

In a remarkable achievement, Fern has been recognised as the Dux of Eastern Fleurieu School for 2023. She achieved an outstanding adjusted ATAR of 97.85, securing a coveted spot in the Bachelor of Medical Science program at Flinders University this year.

Fern's journey to success has been filled with resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to her studies, despite facing personal challenges. Her exceptional accomplishments not only highlight her perseverance but also reflect her unwavering dedication to achieving excellence.

On Wednesday, 28^th February we gathered at a special celebratory assembly to celebrate Fern's outstanding achievement. Fern shared insights with the 7-12 Campus students and staff about her 13 years of schooling at EFS, from her early love of reading to navigating friendships in middle school, and finally, the rewarding experience of her senior year at Eastern Fleurieu School. During her address, she reflected on areas of personal growth and development and emphasised feeling comfortable with the notion that 'we are all in this together,' referring to the shared challenges of meeting due dates and the pressures of performing in the final year of schooling.

The journey ahead for Fern is filled with countless possibilities and opportunities for growth and discovery. Congratulations Fern, on this well-deserved accomplishment.

Regards,
Stephen Rofe
Assistant Principal

WODB – Which One Doesn’t Belong?

Look at the four options in the image and give yourself 10 seconds to determine which one doesn’t belong. Did you choose the 9, because it was the only single-digit number? Or maybe the 16, as it is the only even number? Maybe 43 doesn’t belong, as it isn’t a square number? (3x3=9, 4x4=16, 5x5=25). Maybe you noticed that 25 is the only number that can be made from two other numbers (9+16=25)

In many mathematics classrooms at 7-12, students are greeted by an “Arrival Task” or “Warm-up”. An example of this is WODB – Which One Doesn’t Belong? where students must quickly select which of the four options doesn’t belong, with a reason why. It’s this reason that we are really looking to encourage out of our students when we have them share back with the class. The beauty (and annoyance to some) of a WODB is that any option could be chosen, but not every reason is the same. Our goal here is to reward and celebrate mathematical thinking – what students notice and, what do they wonder?

Regards,
Jack Rowe
Mathematics Teacher

Year 7/8 Zone Basketball Carnival

On Thursday, 22^nd February Week 4 we had four teams participate in the zone basketball carnival down at Morphett Vale. We had a very successful day with all teams showing great determination, participating cooperatively with their peers and opponents and demonstrating great teamwork.

Congratulations to the Year 8 Girls team who were undefeated and finished 1^st.

Year 7 Girls won 3 out of their 4 matches and finished 3^rd in the same division. Year 8 Boys worked hard against some bigger opponents but did not register a win, and the Year 7 Boys were successful winning 3 out of their 4 matches and finishing in 3^rd place.

Thank you to the senior girls who assisted with coaching throughout the day and the staff for organising and managing the day.

Regards,
Mark Nielsen 
Health and Physical Education/Mathematics Teacher 
Sports Coordinator 

Sports Day 2024

Sports Day was successfully held on Friday of Week 5 and we were treated to beautiful weather, great attendance numbers and an enjoyable day of activities.

The house parade was a fantastic way to start off the day, with tractors, sports cars, cheerleading moves, and an impromptu slip and slide some of the highlights! House pride and camaraderie were on full display!

Throughout the day students and staff enjoyed participating in a range of activities; track and field events, novelty events including corner spry and football relays, tug of war, cricket, Mario Kart, cornhole and more. It was really pleasing to see so many students enjoying themselves and collaborating with each other.

A new event was introduced this year, the Eastern Fleurieu Gift, a 100m handicap running race with the winners of each age group 100m qualifying into the final race. Runners all started with a staggered start based on their speed and the winner of the event was presented a brand new, gigantic trophy and will have their name added to the record books. Lacey was the inaugural winner of this new award, congratulations!

We had some athletic records broken on the day with Ryan convincingly breaking the U16 Boys 1500m and 800m boys records! Ned also recorded a new record in the U13 Boys 1500m!

Riley, who has excelled in Sports Day over many years, enthralled the crowd and jumped an outstanding 1.91m in the high jump to break the school record which has been held since 2001!!

Congratulations to all of the record breakers this year!

The following students were also awarded Age Group Champion medals for their individual success on the day. Congratulations to all of the age group champions.

Across the day house points had been awarded for participation, success and positive culture and the overall house champions at the end of the day were Sturt! Congratulations to all competitors!

1^st           Sturt                     1461 points
2^nd          Flinders                1166 points
3^rd          Stirling                  1137 points
4^th          Angas                   1076 points

Our top performing track and field athletes will now turn their attention to the Interschool Track and Field event being held in Adelaide on Wednesday, 3^rd April Week 10.

Regards,
Mark Nielsen 
Health and Physical Education/Mathematics Teacher 
Sports Coordinator 

Year 9/10 Beach Volleyball Carnival

On Wednesday, 21^st February we took 9 Year 9/10 Girls to Victor Harbor Beach Volleyball courts, to compete against other schools from the Fleurieu area. It was a very hot day, and all the girls did a great job battling the heat. Only dropping one game against Investigator College which was a very close contest. In the end it came down to points as there were two other teams that dropped one game, making it very close to play in the final against the other girl’s pool. Our girls finished first in their pool playing against Hallett Cove in the grand final, but it was way too hot on the sand to play so both teams took an equal first placing.

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Regards,
Kristen Rothwell
Health and Physical Education Teacher

Get Ready to Rock 'n' Roll: 'Grease' Announced as 2024 High School Production

Attention all T-Birds and Pink Ladies, mark your calendars because Rydell High is about to come alive once again! We're thrilled to announce that the iconic musical "Grease" will be hitting the stage as our 2024 high school production staring Year 10s, 11s and 12s.

Brace yourselves for a trip back to the fabulous '50s as the beloved story of Danny, Sandy, and the rest of the gang unfolds under the neon lights of Rydell High. Set against the backdrop of leather jackets, poodle skirts, and slicked-back hair, "Grease" promises to captivate audiences with its irresistible blend of electrifying music, unforgettable characters, and timeless romance.

Whether you're a die-hard fan who knows every word to "Summer Nights" or a newcomer eager to experience the magic for the first time, this production of "Grease" guarantees an evening of toe-tapping tunes and infectious energy that will leave you singing and dancing all the way home.

Join us as we journey back to a simpler time filled with teenage angst, friendship, and young love. Dust off your dancing shoes, slick back your hair, and get ready to hand jive the night away because "Grease" is the word for 2024! Stay tuned for audition details and show dates – you won't want to miss this electrifying production!

Regards,
India Carnell
Performing Arts Teacher

Research Practices and Research Project

Last year, Year 11 students completed the subject ‘Research Practices’ in Term 1 before moving onto the Year 12 subject ‘Research Project’ with the same teacher. This was very successful. The first subject prepares students for the second by getting them to plan a question they wish to investigate and the processes they hope to use to find information to help answer this question. They are then required to find and analyse a secondary source, such as an educational or governmental website, before writing and conducting a primary source such as an interview or survey. They then analyse whether this primary source was written and conducted properly. Many students then use this as a starting point to conduct much better primary sources in the ‘Research Project’.

The understanding developed in ‘Research Practices’ is then built on, to complete the Folio in ‘Research Project’. The Folio (30%) consists of planning their question, planning processes to find information, analysing the best of each process used, a reflection on a Capability developed and reflection of skills and knowledge developed. Students then present their findings in an Outcome (40%). Lastly, students produce an Evaluation/Review (30%) which is a reflection on how the Folio & Outcome went.

Here are some questions other students have researched:

• How does the illusory truth effect on social media alter western society’s minds?
• How does translation effect Children’s Literature?
• To what extent does GAD negatively affect the function of the brain and body of an individual and what are the long-term impacts?
• How does the underrepresentation of female leaders affect women’s ability to obtain political leadership positions, confidence, and fight for what they believe in?
• To what extent does Genetically Modified Organisms support farmers and consumers?
• To what extent does the lifestyle of a professional athlete affect their physical and mental health?
• How is midwifery different to how it’s portrayed in TV and movies?
• To what extent does tourism impact the coastal environment on the Eyre Peninsula?
• To what extent is sport important to communities?

Regards,
Adrienne Carter, Gabi Kirk and Leanne Martin

The Rite Journey - Calling and Departure

On Thursday in Week 5, our Year 9 students participated in The Calling and Departure ceremonies as part of their Rite Journey program. The Calling ceremony took place during the day where students silently walked to a location by the Angas River in Strathalbyn. Each student had a pebble which they had written a pre-identified behaviour on. This behaviour was something that each student had agreed to ‘let go’ of this year as they believed it was something that will limit their growth as they move closer to adulthood. Students symbolically threw this behaviour into the river, showing their commitment to this.

Later that evening, students, along with their parents/carers, attended The Departure ceremony at our 7-12 Campus. Highlights of the night included Keely’s singing performance, and Felicia and Liam’s reading of their gratitude letter that they had each written to their loved ones, which they shared with the entire audience. Caitlin, Rhiannon, and Liam did a fantastic job hosting the event, whilst Connor, Levi, Ash, and Ashton also presented very well on the night. Following this, families shared a picnic dinner together as they shared their own gratitude letters that they had prepared for each other. Thank you and congratulations to all who attended the ceremony.

Regards,
Curtis Perrey
The Rite Journey Coordinator
Health and Physical Education and Research Project Teacher

YEAR 10 FIT TO LEAD

On Thursday, 29^th February some of the Year 10 Fit to Lead students went over to the Strathalbyn Swimming Pool to help and assist with the running of the Southern Fleurieu Swimming Carnival. These students had various roles on the day consisting of timing for each lane, working with Jerry to enter data/times, and marshalling the primary school students to make sure they are at the right event and the right lanes for each event. Each student did their role correctly and showed great respect, determination and teamwork on the day and was highly praised by the SAPSASA convenor.

Great job to all!

Regards,
Kristen Rothwell
Health and Physical Education Teacher

Year 8 Food for The Future

The Year 8 students have had a good start to the year recapping and developing their cooking skills and techniques. To date, our classes have been making a range of dishes, using what is in season. We have had the opportunity to make zucchini muffins, stir-fried chicken with rice and seasonal vegetables, tomato chutney, avocado and artichoke open-toasted sandwiches.

The classes have been working on developing an understanding of seasonal vegetables, and how to use food we have available or grow to create meals and we have purchased 3 chickens for the Year 8 cohort to look after. We have learned about the breed of chickens we have, how to look after them, and how to reuse the food scraps we generate at the school to add nutrition to their diet and make compost for the garden. The students work together on a roster to check the chickens, collect eggs, tidy up the pen, collect the scrap bins and feed the chickens.

In Weeks 5 and 6 the Year 8 classes learned how to read and create food labels. They had the opportunity to use technology to make a tomato chutney label where they needed to create and include a nutrition table, ingredients, allergy alerts and general design. In the following lesson cooked tomato chutney and preserved it that was then used in the following lesson to create the avocado, artichoke, and chutney on lightly toasted bread.

For the remainder of the term, we will have an egg and chicken focus with students about to start a breakfast task where they will design and present a breakfast to another person.

Regards,
Tracey Rosser, Laura Brooksby, Kelly Bahr
Food and Hospitality Teachers

Year 7 Visual History Excursion – Art Gallery of South Australia and South Australian Museum

On Friday, 8^th March the classes of 7A, 7B and 7C (those studying Visual History this semester), travelled to Adelaide to visit the Art Gallery and Museum.

Students participated in a guided drawing workshop and tour at the Gallery, which focused on shape, form and light, as well as First Nations Australians art.

We then headed to the Museum to look at the different artefacts on display and collect some information on their uses and what they can tell us about the past.

Due to time constraints, time at the Museum was limited and students felt they needed more time to explore. So please consider a family trip to the Museum and let students’ curiosity and wonder be piqued and satisfied.

We look forward to a similar excursion next semester with classes 7D, 7E and 7F.

Regards,
Megan Janse van Rensburg
English and HaSS Teacher

OPEN BOYS T20 CRICKET

Unfortunately, our Open Boys narrowly lost their opening T20 game yesterday against Investigator College. Our bowlers kept them to a challenging, but gettable 107, with an even bowling performance. After a few early wickets it looked like we were on target after a good partnership between Lachie and Declan however Investigator bowled disciplined lines, which made runs hard to come by. This and a couple of unlucky dismissals at the wrong time saw us fall 11 runs short. Top scorers Lachie 30 not out, and Declan also 30. Thanks to Seth for helping on the day.

9/10 T20 CRICKET

Unfortunately, our Year 9/10 Boys were outpointed by Heathfield High in our opening T20 Knockout game. Our game preparation wasn't helped by being stuck on the freeway for 45 minutes and rushing out to field. However, credit must go to the two Heathfield openers batted very well, in what became a match winning partnership. We tried 7 bowlers with Harry and Austin being the best. The target of 128 was challenging and we couldn't get any real partnerships going, and at the end of our 20 overs we were 8/74. Bailey was our best with a score of 19 and Declan made a quick 13. Jeremy was the only other batter to make double figures remaining not out 10. Thanks to Ms Nielsen for helping with transport on the day.

Regards,
Jerry Blair
Health and Physical Education Teacher

The Rite Journey- Challenge Day

During Week 6 this term, our Year 9 students went to Mount Lofty Adventure Hub to participate in their Challenge Day excursion as part of The Rite Journey. This experience provided students an opportunity to take on several challenges, which would test them both physically and mentally. The theme of the day was ‘challenge by choice’ as students pushed themselves out of their own individual comfort zone to conquer their fear of heights. Challenges included a variety of high ropes courses, rock climbing, ziplining and teamwork challenges. It was clear that students all had an enjoyable and positive learning experience and they should all be very proud of their efforts on the day.

Regards,
Curtis Perrey
The Rite Journey Coordinator
Health and Physical Education and Research Project Teacher

Library News

Premier’s Reading Challenge

The Premier’s reading Challenge is on again this year. It is back to the normal 12 books. In Years 7-9 4 of the 12 must be from the challenge booklist, but 8 are of students’ choice. In Years 10-12 all books are of students’ choosing.

Forms are available online or in our library. Entries close Friday, 6^th September 2024.

Jigsaws

The donated jigsaws are again popular this year. The two jigsaws completed since the last newsletter are one of Paris and another of Holland’s bridges. A very big thank you to our jigsaw donors.

Regards,
Adrienne Carter
Teacher Librarian