Term 1 - 2024 Week 5 Newsletter

Principal's Message with Mr Ionn

Meet the Teacher/s

It was great to welcome so many parents into our classrooms for Meet the Teacher/s session last week.  As an informal event prior to teacher parent interviews, it is a wonderful opportunity to make a connection with your child’s teacher, meet some new faces and reconnect with familiar ones. We cherish open relationships with families so we can work together as a partnership. You are encouraged to maintain these open, respectful relationships with the school throughout the year. 

Wynnum State School Review

Every Queensland state school undergoes a review at least once every 4 years.  

Our current Wynnum State School Strategic Plan 2021-2024 has come to an end, prompting a school review.  This review will take place between 30 April – 2 May.  For a school of our size, this usually involves three reviewers.

Reviews are conducted by experienced educators trained in the use of the School Improvement Tool, a nationally-recognised framework for reviewing teaching and learning practices.

Reviewers look closely at our school’s performance data and speak with a wide range of staff, students, parents and community members to get an accurate picture of the school.

Unlike many other review systems, schools aren’t ranked or given a performance rating. Instead, the school is given a comprehensive report for consideration. The report details key findings and recommended improvement strategies to maximise student outcomes. The school publishes the executive summary or full report on its website.

Input from parents and the community is an important part of school reviews, with everyone encouraged to have their say. As a peer reviewer for other schools, it is not uncommon for me to ask parents and community members questions at the front gate to gain input. 

The review’s findings provide me as principal with an opportunity to work with our school community and school supervisor to develop clear actions to move the school forward in a new 4-year plan.

When the review gets closer, I’ll repost how folks can get involved.

Annual Implementation Plan

The 2024 Annual Implementation Plan or AIP is the yearly implementation of the Strategic Plan and outlines what we’ll do as a school in 2024 in terms of our priority areas. This year we will begin our PBL (positive behaviour for learning) journey and continue to build professional expertise through a focus on academic excellence, wellbeing and engagement, culture and inclusion, as pillars of our commitment to equity and excellence.

Our AIP is co-constructed with staff, and has recently been shared with our P&C.  It is important that all members of our community see what drives our priority work this year. Please see attached.

Term 1 Parent Teacher Interviews

In addition to providing academic reports, at least twice a year, schools offer parents opportunities to 
discuss their child’s achievement and progress with their child’s teacher(s). Our Term 1 Parent Teacher interviews for most classes will be held on Wednesday 13 March from 3.15pm in the Auditorium. If your child is in 1LH, interviews will be held on Tuesday 12 March from 2.00pm in the Front Office.

Bookings will close on Thursday 7 March and can be made online via the link below

https://eq.sobs.com.au/pt3/parent.php?schoolid=70389

NAPLAN Information

ANZAC Day

Wynnum SS March Calendar

Bayside District Swimming

On Thursday 15 February, 6 Wynnum Warriors competed in the Bayside District Swimming trials at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre. For some this was there first time swimming in a 50m pool against the best swimmers from 13 Primary Schools in our area. In true Wynnum Warrier spirit, they cheered each other on, congratulated each other and the other competitors and gave it everything they had. There were some personal best times and lots of smiles before, during and after racing. We were thrilled when it was announced that two students gained times to compete at the Metropolitain East trials during Week 6. Congratulations to Lars Taylor who qualified in both 50m Backstroke and 100m Backstroke events and Lola Barrett who gained selection in the District team for her swim in the 50m Backstroke. The entire Wynnum SS community are proud of you and wish you well at your next event.

Library Matters with Mrs Sutton and the Library Team

Who doesn't love their library?

WSS Library had a great day of sweet reads, making book marks, crafting some hearts and students sharing why they love the library on International Library Lovers’ Day.

Even in the day and age of Google, the library serves as an essential education resource to our students.  Students can access and read from a wide selection of books for free.

Three Fun Facts About Libraries…

1. Before the word ‘library’ was created…in China, the library was called ‘building storing books’ before the official term was introduced.
2. The largest library in the world…The Library of Congress in Washington, DC.
3. Other names for a library…Athenaeum, ambry, archives, reference collection, and incunabula!

Just keep reading …

Musical Notes with Miss Barnes (Performing Arts Specialist)

Dancing through Culture

Why do we dance? There is something about dancing that intrinsically draws us to it. It is a way to express emotions and feelings we do not quite have the words for. It is a way to connect with each other in ways that extend beyond words. Dance is one of the five aspects of The Arts curriculum studied in Prep-Year 6.

Each culture has their own unique style of dance, and all dances carry their own special meaning and history. Last week, Years 4, 5 and 6 were fortunate to have our WSS staff member, Mr Rhythm Rhind guide us through Māori culture. Students were fascinated as they learned about such vibrant and passionate people, their customs, and their history. Rhythm explained the fierce and tender duality of the Haka before students attempted it themselves. The students thoroughly enjoyed the lesson, even if the surrounding classes were not as fond of our loud and proud voices. A big thank you to Mr Rhythm for taking the time to share his passion and the rich Māori culture with all of our students.

Back by popular demand: Wynnum Idol!

Any student who wishes to compete must submit their entry to Miss Barnes in the Music Room by 2:45pm on Friday the 22^nd of March (Week 9). Students may submit a video of their entry on a USB labelled with their name/s and class/es. Finalists will be announced in Term 2, Week 1 to give the students plenty of time to rehearse and perfect their acts. The Grand Final will be on Friday the 21^st  of June.

Best of luck to all aspiring idols!

Yours in music!

Guidance Officer Message with Mrs Nathaly Manning

Looking after one's mental health is of paramount importance for overall well-being and quality of life. Just as we prioritize physical health by eating well and exercising, it is essential to cultivate habits that support mental well-being. It enhances resilience, emotional well-being, productivity, and overall quality of life. Prioritizing mental health helps in managing stress and anxiety, which are common experiences in today's fast-paced world.

Caring for your own mental health also fosters self-awareness and emotional intelligence. This self-awareness allows individuals to recognize their emotions, understand their triggers, and respond to them effectively, leading to healthier relationships and improved decision-making. Additionally, looking after our mental health promotes productivity and creativity. When the mind is at peace, individuals can focus better, think more clearly, and unleash their creative potential.

When we neglect our mental health, it can have severe consequences, including depression, substance abuse, and even suicidal ideation. Therefore, investing time and effort into mental health maintenance is crucial for preventing such outcomes and leading a fulfilling life.

Self-care is essential for maintaining not only physical well-being, but also your emotional and mental well-being; allowing individuals to recharge and rejuvenate. Practising self-care empowers individuals to better handle life's challenges and nurture healthier relationships with themselves and others. By engaging in activities like mindfulness, meditation, or therapy, individuals can develop coping mechanisms to navigate challenging situations with resilience.

You can find some helpful tips on self-care on the following websites:

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/mental-health/wellbeing

https://www.everydayhealth.com/self-care/

https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/2022/03/how-and-why-to-practice-self-care/

If you need help, please reach out to someone or contact one of the relevant numbers below:

• Police / Ambulance – 000
• Lifeline provides 24hr telephone counselling for people in crisis or emotional distress on 13 11 14
• Kids Helpline is a free 24hr counselling service for Australian kids and young people 1800 55 1800
• Parentline provides confidential counselling for parents, from 8am-10pm, 7 days a week 1300 301 300

Have a great fortnight.

National Young Leaders Day

The Year 6 Leaders were invited to an exciting and inspiration filled day at the Brisbane Convention Centre for National Young Leaders Day. Students were inspired by the stories of Anastasia Woolmer (Australian Memory Champion), Ben Polson (Ninja Warrior Champion), Eva Amores and Matt Cosgrove (Author’s of The Worst Week Ever!) and Lachie Smart (the youngest pilot to fly solo around the world).

A reflection from our Cultural Captain Emily:

As we listened to the struggles the speakers went through, we were leaning forwards in our seats in anticipation and awe. It was an astonishing experience and we had the most wonderful time learning new things and mental strategies to help us with the challenges we might face as leaders.

Year 2 Wildrangers Incursion

Week 5 was an exciting one for the students in Year 2 as Wildrangers Wildlife Encounters Ranger Mardi visited WSS with her very different pets. The students were mesmerised by every animal and hung on every word as they learnt about a variety of Australian animals. The students met three reptiles: Bubblegum the blue tongue lizard, Spaghetti the very active carpet python and Lyle the baby saltwater croc. Petal, a ring tail possum was a favourite for her very soft fur and Reggie the tawny frog mouth entertained us with his funny noises and bright yellow mouth. Some lucky students even got to feed him worms for lunch. Yum! The spiny leaf eaters - Lucy, Lilly and Lucile climbed all over those who were brave enough and Freddy the green tree frog even made an appearance. In the coming weeks, students will write animal reports about some of these animals. They will include some very interesting facts that they learned during their wildlife encounter.

Did you know that only male frogs croak? Or that the leaves that ring tail possums eat have so little nutrients that they need to eat their own poop as well? Yuck! And the beak of a tawny frog mouth glows in the dark to attract moths so it can eat dinner? Year 2 students know these interesting facts and many more.

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 13

Next

Free Dress Day

P-2 Science and Technology with Mrs Crowe

The Science Lab has been alive these past two weeks with active young scientists from all year levels!

Year Ones displayed excellent concentration, observation and prediction skills while learning how to use magnifying glasses. Each scientist was comparing fossil ferns (with actual fossils!) with ferns of today (from our school garden) while studying the food sources of herbivore dinosaurs. Look at these photos of young palaeontologists at work!

Wynnum Warrior Girls from Years 1-6 celebrated ‘International Women and Girls in Science Day’ on Monday 12^th February. The lab was overflowing with very eager and engaged female scientists! Mrs Brooks (Year 3-6 Science) and Mrs Crowe (P-2 Science) were very impressed with all the girls that visited the Lab for this special event. So many in depth conversations about scientific concepts and theories.

The girls used scientific equipment including microscopes, magnifying glasses, circuit kits, and a light box with optical illusion slides and x-rays, all of which prompted much Questioning and Problem posing and solving. Natural and preserved specimens of animal skulls, large termite and wasp nests, insects and bird nests, life cycle models, ‘live’ mealworms, butterfly chrysalis and zebra finches with eggs were all investigated with an amazing amount of Wonderment and Awe! Enjoy these photos!

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 15

Next

P&C News

🎣 Fishing Competition This Weekend! 🌟

Ready your rods because the fishing competition is almost here! Head to Munch Monitors to register your attendance. Can't access Munch Monitors? No worries, shoot us an email at wynnumss.pandc@gmail.com  . Your registration helps us plan better, so don't forget to let us know you're coming!

📆 Save the Date: AGM on Thursday, 14th March! 🏫

Our Annual General Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, 14th March at 6:30 PM in the school admin block. Your presence is crucial to vote for the representatives who will champion parents' interests in the upcoming year. All positions (i.e President, Treasurer, Vice-President and Secretary) within the P&C Executive Committee will become vacant at the AGM. Here are a few FAQs regarding nominations:

FAQs for Nominating Someone for an Executive Role at the AGM:

Q1: Do I need to be a P&C general member to nominate someone for an Executive Role (President, Vice President, Treasurer, or Secretary)?

A: Yes, you must be a P&C member. To apply for membership, visit this link.

Q2: Do I need to attend the AGM to become a member?

A: No, you can become a member by filling out the membership form, click here to access the form

Q3: How do I nominate someone for an Executive role once I'm a P&C member?

A: You can nominate by filling out the Nomination (see attached from) and email it to the P&C Committee at wynnumss.pandc@gmail.com or you can nominate in person at the AGM meeting.

Q4: Can P&C members not attending the AGM nominate someone for positions?

A: Yes, you can. Fill out the nomination form (see attached) and submit it to wynnumss.pandc@gmail.com.

Q5: If I can't attend the AGM meeting, can I inform the Secretary of my voting preference?

A: No, attendance at the AGM meeting is required for voting.

Q6: Does the nominee need to be present at the AGM to be voted into a role?

A: No, as long as the nominee has clearly expressed their willingness to take on the role, they can do so on the nomination form

Q7: Can a P&C employee (e.g., Tuckshop convenor) be a member of P&C?

A: Yes, an employee of P&C can be a member of the P&C. However, they will need to understand potential conflicts of interest when attending and participating in meetings and should not be involved in the discussions or vote on any matter that has the potential to impact them financially.

♻️ Containers for Change Update

Keep an eye out for a letter coming your way about our involvement in the Containers for Change initiative. We're excited about the positive impact we can make together.

🙌 Tuckshop Volunteers Wanted!

Some of our fabulous volunteers have moved on, and we're on the lookout for new faces to join the team. Send us an email or feel free to approach one of our current Executive committee for a chat. Your support ensures our tuckshop runs smoothly, so consider joining the fun!

🌈 Colour Fun Run 2023 and Decodable Readers Update

Exciting news! We're in the final stages of purchasing the decodable readers from the funds achieved at the 2023 Colour Fun event. Mark your calendar for Thursday, 17th April (location and time TBC by the school) for a presentation celebration. Parents and carers, you're all invited to join in the festivities!

🏊 Wahoos vs. Mayfield Marlins Carnival! 🎉

This weekend, our Wahoos are ready to take on the Mayfield Marlins in a thrilling carnival. We wish them the best of luck and feel privileged to host this event at our fantastic pool.

🍪 Cookie Dough Fundraiser Coming Soon! Get Ready to Indulge! 🌈

Exciting news! Our delicious Cookie Dough Fundraiser is just around the corner. For more details, refer to the attached flyer. Get ready to treat your taste buds and support our school! 🍪✨

Stay tuned for more updates from your School P&C Association! 🌟

PCYC - Before & After School Care

School Facebook Page

Please visit the page via this link https://www.facebook.com/WynnumStateSchool  and click Like!

Qparents

Have you downloaded the Qparents app?

QParents is a secure, online portal that has been created to provide parents/carers of Queensland state school students with 24-hour access to their child's information.

Qparents allows you to securely access information about your child and communicate directly with your child's school.

Features of Qparents:

• attendance details
• report cards
• invoices
• payment history
• excursion permissions

Currently we have roughly 80 percent of parents/carers on Qparents. If you haven’t already made an account with Qparents, new invitation codes have just been emailed home.

Any further questions please contact the school office.

Absentee Line

To notify the school of your child's absence, please text your child's name and reason for absence to 0429 467 361.

2024 School Term Dates

School Bus Services

Just a reminder that we have a bus service that runs from Wynnum State School. Below is a link to both services.

https://jp.translink.com.au/plan-your-journey/timetables/bus/T/815

https://jp.translink.com.au/plan-your-journey/timetables/bus/t/819/outbound/2022-05-31

A Go Card will need to be purchased to be able to utilise this Translink bus service. The following link lists retail outlets of where to purchase a Go card https://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/go-card/locations 

Community News

Chess Mates

Wynnum Vikings