25 October 2024

Dates to Remember

Principal News

We have had an extremely busy term so far, with lots more exciting events coming up. Please make sure you check your Schoolzine updates and messages from us so that you don’t miss out on being part of our wonderful celebrations.

Today we acknowledge World Teachers’ Day 2025. It goes without saying how important our profession is and that requires passion, drive and a deep sense of optimism for the future. Thank you to our teaching team for being the individuals and team that you are. Not a day goes by that we are not grateful to work alongside and with you!

2025 Transition – Step Up Sessions

Our staff have been working collaboratively to form the 2025 class formations, thank you to all the parents and carers who sent an email to me about considerations for 2025.

On Friday 6 December we invite all current 2024 Prep to Year 5 students to visit their new 2025 classes and teachers. Each student will receive a letter to bring home with details of their new classroom teacher and class location for 2025.

All 2025 future Prep students will receive a letter in the mail with all their details of who their new teacher is and where their classroom will be located.

Our current year 6 students who will be attending Corinda State High School on 5 December and Forest Lake High School will be required to attend their induction day on Friday 6 December and for the Year 6 into Year 7 orientation day. Any student attending another high school in 2025 can still attend school on this day as they will provide assistance to teachers throughout the school for younger students transitioning at Grand Avenue SS.

Semester 2 Report Cards

All parents will receive a Semester 2 report card for their child/children week 10 of the term. Please remember to ensure your email details are correct on our school records so that you will receive the report cards. It is important to note that our assessment for Semester 2 has returned to normal curriculum assessment processes and all learning areas studied this semester will be shown.

I look forward to celebrating our students who have achieved a bronze, gold or silver award in week 9 of our school term. More details will be sent to families and carers.

End of Year Party Celebrations

In week 9 classroom teachers will host a small classroom party to celebrate the end of the school year. Details will be sent by the classroom teachers to families over the next coming weeks. 

Week 11

Queensland state schools provide for 40 school weeks each year, with the rare exception of a 41-week year on a cyclical basis.

A normal school year consists of 40 weeks, 10 weeks per term. Every now and then depending on the cyclic we get a bonus school year. This year we have an additional week in our school year, which we are referring to as week 11.

Our planning for this term will see our teaching and learning be finalised at the end of week 10 Friday 6 December 2024. Week 11, 9 December to 13 December will be considered a flexible week, with adjusted routines and class groupings.

Report cards, attendance and behaviour awards and 100% certificates will be finalised at the end of week 9 and handed out in week 10.

Do you know how amazing the QParents App is? Stay Connected and setup your account now !!

We will be asking parents in a survey to help us plan for this final flexible week. Please look out for this survey early next week via Schoolzine. We appreciate your support in completing this survey to help us to plan for the final week of the school year.

Don’t forget to let us know if your family will not be returning to Grand Avenue SS in the new year. So, we can ensure our classes are created to reflect our 2025 enrolment.

2025 SRS – School Resources Scheme

At the October P&C Meeting we discussed the 2025 SRS. It was agreed and voted on by all members to provide the scheme below to all students at Grand Avenue.

The Student Resource Scheme (SRS) at Grand Avenue State School is designed to:

• Maximise efficiency in buying power
• Maximise affordability for parents of school consumables and resources
• Decrease waste and our school's impact on the environment
• Ensure every student has the resources required to maximise learning
• Ensure consistency in quality and quantity of resources for students

The SRS has two components:

1. Consumables (Namely books, pencils, pens, colours, crayons, scrapbooks, exercise/writing and numeracy books, glue,) the school would purchase these and there is no longer a requirement for parents to supply book packs at start of the year.
2. Equipment Headphones (P-3) and music recorders (Year 3-6)

NB: For those parents/carers who choose not to sign up to participate in this scheme, a list of items will be sent home for parents to purchase.

In 2025 our P&C have voted and endorsed to cover the 12-month licence to access the online platforms for Numeracy and Literacy – e.g., Mathletics etc.

Fine Print:

Parents opt in to the SRS however, parents not participating in the scheme must provide their student with all the items that would otherwise be provided by the scheme.

The SRS components are not separable.

The resources provided by the SRS are replenished throughout the year. A set and forget model. Parents in the scheme only need to provide uniforms, bags, lunches, lunchbox, hat and water bottles and pencil case year 2 to year 6, iPad and headphones for BYOD classes (Year 4-6). 

Incursions, excursions and camps are NOT included in the SRS.

The resources provided by the SRS, with the exception of used booklets remain with the cohort they were purchased for (i.e. at the end of 2025, any leftover resources and all reusable consumables will be transferred with the cohort of 2025 and be redistributed within the 2026 cohort.

Year 3 students receive a recorder – this is not a replaceable item and if lost/broken or other needs to be replaced by the parent.

Prep students will be supplied one headset as part of the SRS to use from Prep to Year 3. This is not a replaceable item and if lost/broken or other, needs to be replaced by the parent.

Year 4-6 students will need to supply their own headphones to suit their iPad in line with the requirements of the BYOD program.

In order for you to be enter the SRS scheme and be invoiced, parents/carers will need to sign a consent form which will be distributed via QParents. All parents are encouraged to ensure they have signed up to QParents by 2025.

We will have a week dedicated in week 6 Monday 4 November to Friday 8 November for signing up to QParents. An invitation will be sent to families and carers next week. 

Thank you for your cooperation and support of our school.

Until next time,

Across the Business Managers Desk

EVACUATION/LOCKDOWN PROCEDURES – GENERAL REMINDER – SCHEDULED DRILLS – TERM 4

Format for Drills - Term 4 – Unannounced;  during lunch break

Due to a range of potential risks from within and outside our school, it is necessary for the protection and safety of students that Grand Avenue has well-advertised and rehearsed Lockdown and Evacuation Procedures.  Although the purpose of the procedures are shared and practiced with students regularly, it is important that parents are aware of, and also discuss the procedures with their children.  For your information, details of the procedures are:-

Lockdown – students are to be seated on the floor out of line of sight of any external door or window while windows and doors are secured by school staff.  Students and staff need to be protected from various situations, aggressive intruders (eg: estranged adult, large dogs etc) and environmental mishaps (eg: dangerous chemical spill).  A broken siren wail signals lockdown (SHORT SIREN – STAY).

Evacuation – students and staff must be able to evacuate buildings quickly in the case of fire or bomb threat.  A continuous siren signals evacuation (LONG SIREN – LEAVE). The evacuation assembly area (EAA) is the school oval on the other side of the cricket pitch.

Should the school be without power, members of the school leadership team are allocated various teaching blocks to sound an evacuation alarm.  This will be two short bursts of a whistle, followed by the words ‘EVACUATION” and two more short bursts of a whistle.  They will then move onto their next allocated building.

Practices must occur at least once per term.  Generally, practices happen during class time and lunchtime breaks.  The school may also have a practice before school or on the afternoon dismiss bell as potentially an incident could occur during the short time before classes begin for the day or at the end of the day.  In the event of a lockdown before school, parents who are waiting with their children outside classrooms can enter the classroom.

During the school day unless volunteering in classrooms, adults who are not staff members will NOT be admitted to any classroom during a lockdown.  At all times parents and visitors are asked to follow the directions of staff members.  Visitors/volunteers should not leave the school grounds during an evacuation but accompany the class/group they are with to the Emergency Evacuation Area.

For any reason, should parents arrive at school during an evacuation or lockdown procedure, for your safety you are asked to remain in the public car park.

In the event of a real situation, school staff and the public will be directed by Queensland Police and Emergency Services.

Teachers will be discussing our procedures with their class during this week.  Some teachers will also have a walk through with their class on the route that they will need to take to the EAA. 

Thank you for your interest and cooperation.

Information for Parents and Carers via the Department Website

You may be aware that the Department of Education website has a page specifically designed for Parents and Carers.  The website includes valuable information, FAQ on various topics, parent resources and links to, and contact details for, many outside organisations.

A new page for parents and carers regarding school fees and charges has been recently added. 

PREP 2025 – ENROL NOW

Transition to Prep: Our Little Stars are Shining!

We are now in week three of our Little Stars transition to prep program, and it’s wonderful to see how beautifully the children are settling in! Each day, they are becoming more comfortable and confident as they engage in fun and meaningful learning experiences with their teachers. Their smiles and excitement as they walk through the doors are a joy to witness!

While the children are busy exploring their new learning environment, parents have been attending valuable information sessions designed to support their child's transition to school. So far, we’ve covered topics like fostering independence, building social skills, developing emotional regulation, and nurturing literacy and numeracy skills at home through fun, everyday activities.

Looking ahead, we have some exciting sessions planned. Parents will have the opportunity to meet and learn about the role of our Guidance Officer and Head of Special Education, as well as connect with the Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) manager.

You’ll also hear from our P&C representative and the Head of Curriculum for the Early Years, providing a complete picture of the support network available to your child.

It’s a pleasure to watch our Little Stars grow more comfortable and happier each day as they embark on their school journey. We look forward to continuing this wonderful transition together!

Grand Avenue State School Celebrates World Teachers’ Day

At Grand Avenue State School we celebrated World Teachers’ Day by showing appreciation for our dedicated teaching team.

Our wonderful P&C generously provided delicious doughnuts to kick off the celebrations. Teachers were also greeted with positive affirmation slips and acknowledgment cards, reminding them of the incredible impact they have on our students every day. To add a bit of sweetness, there were extra sweet treats placed in pigeon holes as a surprise.

A heartfelt thank you to our teachers for their passion, dedication, and commitment to making a difference. We appreciate all that you do!

Every Day Counts at Grand Avenue State School

As we reach the middle of the term, our students are hard at work on their assessments. Now, more than ever, it’s essential for our learners to be on time and present at school every day. Regular attendance supports learning continuity and gives students the best chance to achieve their personal best.

We appreciate your support in ensuring students arrive prepared and ready to learn each day. Together, we can help them make every day count!

Until next time,

Hello Grand Avenue Community,

I am excited to introduce myself as the new Deputy Principal for years 2, 3 and 4! My name is Cara Middleton and I am thrilled to join this school community.

With 16 years of experience in education, I have had the privilege of working in various roles at different schools which has served as a great foundation for my leadership journey. My passion lies in curriculum development and effective pedagogical practices, where every student can thrive.

I believe in the power of collaboration and am eager to work alongside the dedicated staff, students, and families to foster a positive learning atmosphere. I am committed to supporting our school’s vision and enhancing the educational experience for all learners.

During the term, I look forward to meeting each of you.

Warm regards,

Across the Desk of the Guidance Officer

Student Support Mental Health Week Activities 2024 

During our recent Mental Health Week, we ran a number of staff led activities to help raise awareness of the importance of looking after our mental health. 

Chappy Sophie organized themed lunchtime activities aimed at fostering connections among students.

Participants explored ways to support their mental health during challenging times and were encouraged to reach out to classmates they might not know well. The central theme was the importance of connection, which can significantly enhance mental health and overall well-being.

On Wednesday, year 3 students were invited to make a QMHW chatterbox during breaktime where all the suggested activities in the chatterbox were aimed at promoting positive mental health (e.g., to take three deep breaths, to say "thank you" to someone, to try something new, to go for a walk). The chatterbox is also a game which can help students build friendships with others. 

Additionally, throughout the week, staff members were encouraged to engage in Random Acts of Kindness towards their colleagues, promoting a supportive and positive school environment. Thank you for supporting our efforts to prioritize mental health and community connection!

Chappy Scott organised a pancake day for QMHW. MP Margie Nightingale along with parent volunteers and the P & C were also involved in making this event possible! Thank you for your contributions! 

The eSafety Commissioner have several different webinars confirmed which will cover safety issues faced by children and young people around cyber bullying, abuse and inappropriate content. These events are free to attend but you do need to register to receive the meeting link. The Webinars available are:

• Understanding parental controls to safeguard your child
  Friday 25^th October 12.30pm
  To Register Click - > HERE
  

• Online safety and social media
  Tuesday 29^th October 12.30pm
  To Register Click - > HERE
  

Ashleigh Granzin / Sabrina Blaas
Guidance Officers

Active School Travel

Why walking to school is better than driving your kids

A vast majority of school aged children aren’t getting enough physical activity. Adding a walk to school is a simple way to combat this.

Some parents believe it’s safer to drive their children to school, rather than letting them walk. In reality, evidence shows children are more likely to be harmed in a car accident compared to walking to school.

Walking groups or walking buddies are a great way for children to actively travel to school. They limit any fears around actively travelling to school, as well as creating a stronger sense of community.

Children who walk to school have been found to have higher academic performance in terms of attention/alertness, verbal, numeric and reasoning abilities; higher degree of pleasantness and lower levels of stress during the school day; and higher levels of happiness, excitement and relaxation on the journey to school.

Walking to school can contribute to personal growth by developing a sense of independent decision making, emotional bonds with peers and the natural environment, and road safety skills.

Join us on Friday and actively travel to school. Their body and brain will love it!

Also, this week we welcome out year 5 leaders who will be taking over the running of Active School Travel for the remainder of 2024. We look forward to seeing them supporting our school in the future.

Active School Travel – good for the body and the brain!

LIBRARY NEWS

Term 4 Chess

PBL NEWS

YEAR 5 NEWS

Year 5 are thrilled to share some highlights as we dive into a range of engaging topics across our subjects!

In English, Year 5 students are busy creating both written and multimodal informative texts focused on space. They’re harnessing their creativity to inform and captivate their audience, using a blend of visuals, videos, and engaging narratives. From the mysteries of black holes to the wonders of distant planets, students are learning to present complex information in accessible ways. We can’t wait to see their final projects!

Students have been exploring chance and probability in maths, as well as understanding 12-hour and 24-hour time formats. Through fun games and real-life applications, they’re learning how to calculate odds and make predictions.

Additionally, understanding time in both formats is helping them manage their schedules effectively. It’s a great way to build essential life skills!

Year 5 students are embarking on a cosmic journey in Science, studying "Our Place in the Solar System."

They’re learning about the planets, moons, and other celestial bodies that make up our solar system. Through interactive lessons and hands-on projects, students are gaining a deeper appreciation for our universe and their place within it. The excitement is palpable as they discover the vastness of space!

In HASS, our focus is on participating in Australian communities and understanding consumer decision-making. Students are exploring how communities’ function and the roles they play within them. They are learning about making informed choices as consumers, understanding the importance of sustainability and ethical decision-making in their everyday lives.

Safety is a top priority, and Year 5 Students participated in the Water Safety Program!

Students rotated through six engaging thirty-minute activities designed to improve their confidence and skills around water.

Led by SLSQ Lifeguards and Swim Instructors, and supervised by Grand Avenue Teachers, each session covered key competencies including entries and exits, buoyancy, submergence, swimming for survival, and rescue techniques. This program not only teaches vital skills but also emphasizes making safe choices when near water, ensuring our students are prepared for any aquatic adventure.

We are proud of our Year 5 students and their enthusiasm for learning. As they explore these important topics, they are not only gaining knowledge but also developing skills that will serve them well in the future. Stay tuned for more updates and be sure to support our students in their exciting educational journey!

YEAR 6 NEWS

Year 6 News

This semester, the Year 6 cohort is creating masks to represent themselves.

Students are tasked with constructing a multi-modal mask incorporating the elements of art. The group has been busy planning, designing, creating, and refining these wonderful pieces of art.

Each student will take their mask home after completion, allowing families to celebrate their hard work and artistic expression. We are excited for them to share these creative projects with you.

DANCE NEWS

GASS Development Squad Program

Music News

Evening of Music

” Evening of Music concert is 6pm Wednesday 13 November. All Choir, Strings, Band students are expected to attend.”

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

Term 4 – After School Activities

OSHC NEWS

OSHC centre is starting to look like Halloween, Brittney has been creating some Halloween activities. Children can construct and reconstruct a skeleton and also play with some characters, mixing and matching bodies and heads.

We’ve also had one of our lovely year 2 children request we make some rocky road one afternoon. Yum

She wrote us out a shopping list and then one of our educators gathered the interested children and made some delicious Rocky Road.

This was a wonderful child lead activity enjoyed by all the children who participated.

We will also be presenting with the P&C at the Prep information sessions next week.

P&C NEWS

Diary Dates Term 4:

1 November – Uniform Price increases
1-2 November – Family Photo Fundraiser
13 November – Ekka Fun Day
TBC – Volunteer Thank You Morning Tea

Week 9 – Canteen Meal Deals with class parties. More information coming soon.
Week 10 – Limited canteen items available, once we sell out of items we will not replace.
Week 11 – Canteen will be closed

Uniform Shop News:

Uniform prices have increased from our suppliers. As a result a price increase will occur from 1 November, the reduced prices will still be available until then. 

Canteen News:

As we approach the end of the school year, please be mindful of the upcoming canteen schedule and plan ahead for your final canteen days.

Week 9: Canteen Meal Deals will be available, coinciding with class parties. More information will be provided soon.

Week 10: Limited canteen items will be available. Once stock is sold out, it will not be replenished.

Week 11: The canteen will be closed.

Thank you for your cooperation and support throughout the year!

Ekka Fun Day… in November!

Ekka Fun Day prepaid ride passes are now available for purchase. Wristbands will be collected on the day from the P&C tent. Ride passes are $40 presale or $50 on the day. Individual rides tickets will be $7. Rides are from Affordable Rides and booked in are:  Super Sizzler, Para Trooper, Dodgem Cars, Round Up, Sky Flyer, Giant Slide, Tea Cups, Pirate ship, Merry Go Round, Rock Wall, Jumping Castle. The P&C with the support of Brisbane City Council are also providing pony rides, petting zoo and airbrush tattoos to compliment these rides. Bank of Queensland will be providing facepainting at their stall.

We are still looking for volunteers to make this a successful day. Please sign up 

A few safety messages for the day:

• Children must be supervised at all times.  This is a fun family day, bring everyone along to enjoy the day.
• Heritage Bank Fireworks will be at 8pm. An exclusion zone will be in place to keep everyone safe. If you live locally, please ensure your pets are secured before you come down.
• Reminder, all EQ facilities are dog free zones, please leave your pets at home (assistants dogs excepted).
• Parking will be limited, it would be appreciated if those that live close walk down, let’s practice our Active School Travel.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Logan West Upgrade Project