24 August 2023
Dates to Remember
Tues 29 August | CBCA Story Book Incursion - Prep Students |
Tues 29 August - Thurs 31 August | P&C Father's Day Stall - All Students |
Wed 30 August | Forest Lake SHS Band Visit |
Wed 30 August | Assembly - Prep & Year 2 Students |
Thurs 31 August | Crazy Hair Day - All Students |
Thurs 31 August | Assembly - Year 1 Students |
Fri 1 September | Pupil Free Day (Whole School) |
Mon 4 September - Wed 6 September | Learn to Swim Program - Year 1 Students |
Tues 5 September | Parent Teacher Interviews |
Tues 5 September | West Brisbane Chess Tournament - Chess Students |
Wed 6 September | Musica Viva Music in My Suitcase - Year 3 & 4 Students |
Wed 6 September | Assembly - Year 3 - 6 Students |
Fri 8 September | Brave Hearts Incursion - Prep - Year 3 Students |
Prep, Year 1 & 2 News
Year 1 News
The Year Ones were very lucky to have a visit from the Durack Fire Station. We learnt about how to keep ourselves safe if there is a fire and the number to call in an emergency. Then we headed down to the oval where we got to look at all the equipment they carry on their truck and they even showed us how they put out fires!




Year 2 News
This Term in Year Two science, students have been learning about the life cycles of different living things. We have looked at the life cycle of an axolotl, a bean plant, a butterfly, a frog, a chicken and a tiger. We have practised drawing and labelling each of the stages. Students have also discussed how each of these living things are similar and different regarding their life cycles. There have been some Intelligent insights as many students have been able to point out similarities and differences that are subtle yet significant. It has been lovely to see such rich engagement and enjoyment from our students as they learn more about the world around us. We wish all the Year Two students best of luck as they begin to demonstrate what they have learnt so far in their upcoming assessments.






Year 5 & 6 News
Year 6 News
In Year 6, we’ve been busy learning about number properties and the four fundamental operations in mathematics.
At this stage, students are diving into more complex mathematical concepts. Understanding number properties and the four operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) is crucial as they form the foundation for more advanced math topics. These skills have real-life applications. From calculating grocery bills to solving everyday problems, mastery of number properties and operations empowers students to make informed decisions and solve practical challenges. A strong grasp of number properties prepares students for algebra. It helps them comprehend variables, equations, and functions, making the transition to higher-level math smoother.
We encourage you to engage with your child's learning journey by discussing these concepts at home, exploring real-world scenarios where these skills come into play, and fostering a positive attitude towards math.


Visit From Forest Lake High School
In an engaging and informative initiative, Forest Lake High School students recently paid a visit to their younger counterparts in Year 6 to shed light on the exciting world of high school. The event aimed to ease the transition for these elementary students as they prepare to take the leap into secondary education.
The Year 6 students were abuzz with curiosity and anticipation as they gathered to meet their older peers. The high school visitors, armed with their own personal experiences and insights, eagerly fielded a barrage of questions about life in high school. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and support, as the older students openly shared their wisdom.
The questions spanned a wide range of topics, from the academic to the social. The high school students addressed concerns about managing a more demanding workload, navigating the diverse array of subjects and extracurricular activities, and even tips for staying organized.
Equally important were the discussions about the social dynamics of high school. The Year 6 students were keen to learn about making new friends, finding their niche in clubs and sports, and handling the challenges of peer interactions. The high school visitors shared personal anecdotes and practical advice on building relationships and fostering a positive social environment.
The event also served as a platform to break down any misconceptions or anxieties that the Year 6 students might have had about transitioning to high school. Hearing firsthand accounts from students who were once in their shoes helped demystify the experience and alleviate any fears they might have harboured.
Book Week 2023
Our week began with a BANG, as we shared our book character parade. Lots of characters were represented, with some just enjoying the chance to dress up. Some students won book prizes for dressing up on the day.
Please enjoy the photos. You will see many of our staff got into the spirit of the theme, Read, Grow, Inspire. You will also see a special guest book reader in the photos too.
























Sports Newsletter
This week in Physical Education students have been working hard to develop their skipping and object control skills. Students have worked their way through rotation activities and have had a lot of fun whilst practicing these skills. Well done everyone on your efforts this week and keep up the fantastic work!




News from the Guidance Officers
National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence
On Friday 18th August we acknowledged the National Day of Action Against Bulling and Violence. Grand Avenue State School staff and students came together on the oval to show our collective stance against bullying, by linking arms to create a ‘Connection’Cirle’.
If we are bullied, we report it.
If we see someone being bullied, we report it.
At Grand Avenue State School we say Bullying No Way!




Music Notes
Westcent Music Camp
Three of our senior instrumental music students participated in the Westcent District Music Camp, 31 July to 3 August. Amelia, Spriha and Winston joined over 100 students and spent the week playing in large bands and string orchestras.
Spriha said this about her experience… “Westcent was amazing because I got to learn new techniques on the Viola and I got to meet different teachers and students from other schools. I am proud of myself that I was accepted to get in and I was able to learn music harder than what I normally play. I'm so glad that I was able to go to the Westcent District Music Camp.”

Dance Moves
The GASS Dance Program is looking ahead into 2024. With our current Year 6 children heading off to High School, we will have positions open up in the Dance Troupe. We would love have more students on board for our 2024 Troupe. Year 4s have been studying dance this Term and some students have shown great potential with learning choreography and dance technique quickly.
If your Year 4 child is interested in participating in the Thursday afternoon dance program with a view to trial for the Troupe in 2024, please complete the EOI form below and return to the office by Monday 4th September. Other year levels will receive information about the 2024 Dance program later in the year.
Student Council Reminders


Chess News
This Term's interschool chess tournament will be held at Ipswich Grammar School on Tuesday 5 September. Students who have attended tournaments this year will be invited to attend. Those who do not meet this criterion, but would like to be considered, should see Mrs Szczepina at Chess Club on Wednesday at First Break to complete a Chess Passport.
Notes and invoices have been sent out for the upcoming chess tournament. Please complete and return the form and pay the invoice at your earliest convenience. If your child is invited but will not be attending, please let me know.
Annie Chang has been managing communications to chess families. If you would like to join this group, please email her on: anne.w.chang@gmail.com. Information includes tournaments and chess education opportunities beyond those organised by school. If you are continuing with us in 2024, we are looking for someone to take over the communications as Annie will no longer have children at GASS. Please let her know if you are happy to do so and we can commence a handover. We really appreciate Annie's efforts over the last few years, and she will be missed.
Don't forget, we have Gardiner Chess running an after-school chess program each Wednesday in the library from 2:50pm - 3:50pm. Contact Gardiner Chess to arrange a free trial lesson or to sign up.
We also have our chess club meets at first break on Wednesdays in the library. Please remind your child to come along to practise ahead of our tournament. Anyone who has not received an invitation but would like to be considered should see Mrs Szczepina at Chess Club.
It is not too late to join the Gardiner Chess After School Chess Program on Wednesdays in the Library. Contact Gardiner Chess about a mid-term entry (fees are reduced for part-terms).


P&C News
Diary Dates Term 3
Father’s Day Stall: 29-31 August
Term 4 - Planning:
Family Portraits: 10 & 11 November
Disco Under the Sun: 25 November
Meal Deal Day. Date TBA
Movie Night:
Thank you everyone for coming to our Movie Night, was great to see so many of our families. The screen from Starry Nights Outdoor Movies was perfect.
Shout out to our sponsors!
ilook Property, Egar Electrical, Milton Dick MP, Cr Charles Strunk, and BOQ Forest Lake. Thank you to our parent volunteers for assisting with everything on the night.
We look forward to organising another movie night!

Father’s Day Stall
Get ready to spoil Dad or that Special Someone. Who’s your Hero!
Father’s Day Stall: 29-31 August
Class timetables will be emailed out soon.


We are looking for volunteers to help on run the Father’s Day Stall
Father's Day Stall: 29/08 to 31/08 volunteersignup.org/DDAPW
We need every bit of help we can get will help these events run smoothly. If these times or days don't suit you please reach out to our exec to let us know and we'll make something work.
We look forward to seeing you there. Many hands make light work!



Like and Follow our Facebook Page to keep updated with information on upcoming events. Feel free to share this with family and friends and others in our Grand Avenue Community. https://www.facebook.com/gasspandc
Next General Meeting:
All are welcome to attend our General Meetings. They are held the third Tuesday of the month during school term. If you would like items added to the agenda, please email p&cSecretary@grandavenuess.eq.edu.au. Want to become a member? Membership Forms can be found on the School Website or email the Secretary above for a form.
