13 September 2024

Dates to Remember

Principal News

As we finalise the term, I would like to take the opportunity to wish all the students a restful and safe vacation. I would like also like to say a huge thank you to staff, students, P&C team and families for a successful term. Our students have all been involved in so many learning opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom including incursion, excursions, community events, competitions and sporting events. These opportunities provide some of the most memorable days of school life and also create experiences that help students develop and apply positive life skills. I have a strong belief that positive impact on school engagement and maximising academic success. I would like to thank families and the P&C Team for their support of our school and our wonderful staff who put our students first at all times at times giving up time from their personal lives to make wonderful memories for our students.

I am excited to see what other community events and opportunities we will have to finalise the school year, as the community spirit is alive and well after our return from the pandemic. Next term, we look forward to sharing more about how families and carers can return to supporting and participating in our wonderful school.

This week we opened our school to families and carers to meet with teachers to discuss student learning and goal setting. If you did not get an opportunity, please contact your child/children’s teachers for a meeting request. Thank you to the families and carer who attended. Please consider the following suggestions for a further follow up to your meeting.

After Parent Teacher Meeting suggestions for Parents and Carers

• Make a plan. Write down the things that you and the teacher will each do to support your child. You can do this during the conference or after. Write down what you will do, when, and how often. Make plans to check in with the teacher in the coming months.
• Schedule another time to talk. Communication should go both ways. Ask how you can contact the teacher. And don’t forget to ask how the teacher will contact you too. There are many ways to communicate—in person, by phone, notes, email. Make a plan that works for both of you. Be sure to schedule at least one more time to talk in the next few months.
• Talk to your child. The parent–teacher conference is all about your child, so don’t forget to include them. Share with your child what you learned. Show them how you will help with learning at home. Ask for their suggestions.

Quality partnerships require a reciprocal commitment from staff and parents to work together to improve student learning and wellbeing.

Learning is not limited to the classroom. The beliefs, expectations and experience of parents are powerful determinants in students' achievement. Effective partnerships can help to raise parents' awareness of their ability to improve their children's learning and wellbeing. Understanding the school, home and community contribution to student learning helps cultivate a holistic learning environment.

School culture Respectful relationships between the school, students, parents and the school community need to be actively cultivated and valued. Nurturing a culture that respects and values difference amongst the whole school community is vital in supporting the inclusive engagement of all families. Parent and community participation in student learning and the school community should be acknowledged and recognised. This involvement sends a clear signal to students about the value of education.

Planning for 2025

The semester is already in full swing and planning for 2025 is also well begun.  As part of this process, we are asking parents/carers to notify the school if your child/ren will not be returning to Grand Avenue in 2025 or will be late to return due to an extended holiday, etc.  (Please note the return date is Tuesday, 28 January 2025).

It is very important that we have this information in writing as soon as possible as staffing levels and funding are determined by our enrolment numbers.

If you are planning to transfer your child/ren or they will return late, and have not already informed the school, please contact our Enrolment Officer at enrolments@grandavenuess.eq.edu.au or phone 3372 0555.

Your prompt assistance is appreciated.

Student Class Placement for 2025

Staff will begin working on class structures for 2025 early next term. As always, we invite parents to write an email outlining information that you may need to share. Please remember that you cannot request individual teachers, request notes are focussed on learning and social concerns that you may wish to be taken into consideration. Parent requests are due by Monday 14^th October 2024 to allow time for classes to be compiled for 2024. Requests will be unable to be accepted after the 21^{st of} October. All requests must be in writing and submitted to Principal - Mrs Racheal Jones rjone233@eq.edu.au

Please note that if you have previously put in writing your requests in previous years. You will be required to do this every year.

School Attendance – Everyday Counts

Did you know?

Research consistently shows that higher student attendance at school is associated with higher student achievement, a recent statement suggested that for every 4 days a student is absent from school that they score 10 points less in their next NAPLAN test. 

So regular attendance at school is very important and will mean that your child has a better chance in life. Your child will achieve better when they go to school all day, every school day. Children who regularly miss days of school risk missing important learning concepts which in turn can mean that they have gaps in their learning. Sometimes these learning gaps have an immediate effect of a child’s learning and achievement. While some children the effects are not evident until they reach high school.

Not attending school one day a week might not be seem much, but missing one day each week means that a child misses out on about two weeks of lessons each term. This would amount to eight weeks a year, almost an entire term of learning would be missed.

Under Queensland law, you must ensure your child of school age is enrolled and school all day, every school day unless they have and acceptable reason, illness, or competing in a school sporting event, etc. are acceptable reasons for being absent from school. School Principals decide if the reason given for your child’s absence is acceptable.

Parents should avoid keeping children away from school for birthdays, shopping, holidays, visiting families and friends, if they sleep in, looking after other children, minor check-ups or care such as haircuts. Routine medical or other medical appointments should be made either before or after school or during the school holidays.

Every day does count. Providing our children with every opportunity to learn and succeed is important and one-way parents do this is by ensuring that their children attend school regularly.

Late arrivals

It is also very important for students to be at school on time every day.

Thank you for your cooperation and support of our school.

PREP 2025 – ENROL NOW

Term 3 Wrap-Up: Celebrating an Action-Packed Term!

As we wrap up Term 3, it’s time to reflect on the incredible achievements of our youngest students. From exciting excursions to unforgettable classroom moments, our little learners have truly shone!

A major highlight this term was the Prep excursion to Nudgee Beach, where our students explored the beach environment, discovering the wonders of marine life. Their enthusiasm and curiosity made this an exciting learning experience. Swimming lessons were another big success, with our Prep students diving into the water with confidence, learning vital skills that will serve them for years to come.

We extend a heartfelt thank you to our fantastic teachers and teacher aides who ensured these out-of-school adventures were both safe and enjoyable. Your commitment to our students' growth and well-being does not go unnoticed!

Grandparents Day  this afternoon was another standout event this term. Seeing the children proudly share their classrooms and work with their grandparents was a joy for everyone involved. The love and pride in the room were palpable, making it a truly special day for our school community.

As we approach the holiday break, we wish all of our families a relaxing and safe time off. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in Term 4, ready for more learning and fun!

Happy holidays!

Teacher Aide Appreciation Week

At Grand Avenue, we are incredibly fortunate to have an outstanding team of teacher aides who play a vital role in supporting both students and teachers every day. Teacher Aide week was our chance to recognise and celebrate their hard work, dedication and the positive impact they have on our school community.

Our teacher aides go above and beyond, assisting in the classroom, helping students one-on-one, preparing resources and contributing to creating a nurturing learning environment. Grand Avenue decided to enjoy a lovely morning tea together to share our gratitude of the work our teacher aides do.

Term 3 Wrap Up

As Term 3 draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the many achievements and memorable moments we’ve experienced over the past 10 weeks. Our school community has been buzzing with activities, projects and events that have enriched our students’ learning and fostered a sense of enthusiasm. Here are some of the many activities that our students have participated in; Life Education, NAIDOC Week, Multicultural Month, Street Science, Bullying No Way! Day, and Year 6 Camp, to name a few. What a term it has been, Grand Avenue!

As we conclude this eventful term, I extend my heartfelt thank you to students, teachers and parents for their unwavering support and enthusiasm. Wishing everyone a safe and relaxing break, filled with rest ad rejuvenation.

 Let’s look forward to another exciting and productive term ahead!

Year 5 Leadership Nominations

Our Year 5 students, have now submitted their personal leadership projects. In the coming days, invitations will be sent out to selected students, inviting them to participate in the next phase of the process: interviews for 2025 school captain positions. More information to follow regarding house captains, music captains, dance captains and community captains.

2025 Year 6 Camp

From Monday, 10 February to Wednesday, 12 February 2025, students in Year 6 will have the opportunity to attend Camp CYC Burleigh Heads.  The aims of the camp are for students to build leadership skills and team work, resilience and problem-solving skills in a variety of land and water-based activities.  As camp is very early next year, please note that forms and payment are required by Friday 22 November 2024 (Term 4).   

Rumble Hip-Hop Competition

On Saturday 7 September, The Avenue Crew proudly represented Grand Avenue State School at the highly anticipated Rumble Hip-Hop Competition. The Avenue Crew, made up of talented students from Years 4 to 6, showcased their impressive passion, dedication and skill in hip-hop dance. Their months of hard work, lunch time rehearsals and after-school practices truly paid off as they delivered an electrifying performance that captivated both the audience and judges alike.

Competing in the primary school's division, The Avenue Crew demonstrated exceptional coordination, creativity, and energy on stage. Their choreography was filled with dynamic moves, intricate formations, and high-energy routines that highlighted their unity and talent. Every dancer gave their all, contributing to a flawless performance that earned them 1st place in the division, a remarkable achievement that left the crowd in awe.

A huge thank you goes out to the supportive families and friends who came out to cheer on the team. Their encouragement and enthusiasm created an uplifting atmosphere that undoubtedly fuelled the dancers’ confidence and energy. The Avenue Crew’s victory is not only a testament to their talent but also to the unwavering support of their community. We are incredibly proud of their dedication and commitment to excellence in dance, and we look forward to their continued success in future competitions!

Across the Desk of the Guidance Officer

Sabrina Blaas
Guidance Officers

LIBRARY NEWS

PREP NEWS

The Prep students had a wonderful time on their excursion to the Nudgee Beach Environmental Education Centre. We enjoyed exploring this special place as we have been learning about special places and how to care for them in HASS.

We also enjoyed learning about all different kinds of living things including yabbies, crabs and sea snails. We look forward to using what we have learned at Nudgee in our Term 4 English and Science units.

YEAR 1 NEWS

Year 1 – Swimming

This term, our Year One students dove into an exciting water safety program that ran for six lessons over two weeks! Each session was filled with fun and engaging activities designed to teach essential water skills and safety practices. With the help of experienced instructors, the children learned how to float, kick, and navigate the water safely, all while having a splashy good time.

The program not only boosted their confidence but also equipped them with important life skills. Parents, we hope you asked your child about their swimming adventures and encouraged them to share their new skills with the family!

Year 1 – Design Technology and Science

A big thank you to all our families for your generous recyclable donations for our Design Technology and Science unit! Our students had a fantastic time exploring the design process through brainstorming, planning, testing, and evaluating their creations.

They built various house types, boats, and modes of transport, experimenting with materials like paper, cardboard, wood, plastic, and fabric. They discovered how different materials properties such as waterproof, absorbent, strong, weak, heavy, light, flexible, and rigid affected their designs. Your contributions made these hands-on experiments possible and greatly enriched their learning experience.

We appreciate your support in helping make this unit a success!

Year 1 – Fire Safety

This term, our Year One students enjoyed an exciting and educational incursion focused on fire safety. Firefighters visited our school to teach the students about the importance of staying safe in case of a fire. The children participated in a fun and informative program, learning about fire prevention and the role of firefighters.

The highlight of the day was exploring the fire truck, seeing the various equipment up close, and even trying out the fire hose on the oval. Our students had a fantastic time while gaining valuable knowledge on how to stay safe. A big thank you to the firefighters for making it such a memorable experience!

Year 1 Teachers

YEAR 5 NEWS

Celebrating our Learning

The celebration of the students’ learning is a hallmark of the Grand Avenue State School program. It happens through displays, sharing, presentations, performances, special activities and exciting events like Grandparent’s Day (celebrated today at our school).

This is the time of year when we applaud the achievements and joy in learning that the children have shown in Term 3!

The Year 5 classes have a spring in their step as the term culminates with game strategy, model making, the ‘Musica Viva’ concert and the fun of creating and filming their own Gold Rush Drama productions.

DANCE NEWS

Meet our GASS 2024 Dance Captains

Name: Manaia
My position at GASS is Dance Captain
I have been at GASS for 7 years
My friends call me Manaia or Naia
My favourite book is Drama by Raina Telgemeier
My favourite movie is Maze Runner Scorch Trials
My favourite activity outside school is Acrobatics
Something I love about GASS is Learning New things
What I would like to do when I finish school is become either an Actor or Choreographer
We can make the world a better place by being kind to everyone and respecting people
We can make our school a better place by taking responsibility for our actions and no bullying
My favourite Primary School memory was my first dance competition

GASS Development Squad Program

GRAND AVENUE E-Sports

In Term 3 students were invited to attend an information session to learn more about an upcoming program that will be running in Term 4; E-Sports. Early next Term students will have the opportunity to participate in the Grand Avenue E-Sports Program. The E-Sports program will take place during specific lunch breaks throughout the week and offer 2 parts – Gamers Club & Minecraft Club.

Our E-sports program is committed to creating an engaging and inclusive environment where students from Year 3 to Year 6 can explore their passions for gaming and technology. Through competitive gaming, we aim to develop essential skills such as teamwork, strategic thinking, and digital literacy in a fun and supportive setting.

Needless to say, the students who attended are all looking forward to this commencing! Stay tuned for more information and updates in Term 4.

Reece Neyland
Student Engagement Coach

Multicultural Week Celebrations - Wall of Nations

For Multicultural Week, a Wall of Nations was put together with the help of our Year 6 Student Leaders. There were 41 flags!!  This demonstrates just how diverse our community is. During the week students and staff were invited to write their name under the flag that they identify the most with. Pictured are our Student Leaders with one of the classes that participated in this activity.

Louise blaire
EALD/Inclusion Teacher

Music News

This term, our Year 4 Beginner Band students have been putting on a few lunchtime concerts.

Recently we had the brass students and the percussion/bass group. These groups played beside the grade 3 block and gathered quite a crowd of audience watching.

 It's great to see these young musicians growing in confidence, putting on concerts and sharing what they've been learning this year.

Alisen McLeod
Classroom Music Teacher | Instrumental Music Co-Ordinator
Experienced Senior Teacher | Grand Avenue State School

Term 4 – After School Activities

OSHC NEWS

Pupil Free Day at OSHC was loaded with bright fluro colours. Children tie dyed socks, painted pictures with bright coloured paint. We danced the day away in the hall with glow sticks and disco lights. They jumped most of the day on a jumping castle and enjoyed brightly coloured jelly, ice cream and fruit for afternoon tea.

We also have recently wrapped up our Olympic medal tally, following the Paralympic Games. Children have enjoyed our tally sheets each morning.

We are now rolling up our sleeves ready for vacation care. Various fun days are planned, incursions are coming and excursions are filling fast.

Hope all families enjoy a great holiday fortnight

P&C NEWS