Welcome to Term 3
We have had a fantastic start to Term 3, with energy and excitement flowing throughout the Junior School. As always, it is a busy and productive term filled with special events, learning opportunities and celebrations of student success. Thank you for your ongoing support as we work together to ensure every child feels connected, confident and inspired in their learning.
Celebrating Home – School Partnerships
This week we held our Parent Teacher Interviews. We would like to thank our dedicated teachers for their continued efforts, and our families for their commitment to their children's education. We understand that children are only at school for part of the day. Families play a vital role in their development, which is why we place a strong emphasis on the partnership between home and school.
Parent Teacher Interviews are one example of how we work together. Another is through home learning, including our Reading Folders and Math’s Fluency Programs such as NumBots and Times Tables Rock Stars. These programs allow families to see what students are learning, while helping children build their reading and number fluency skills.
Last term, Mr. Tony Corr and I had the pleasure of visiting each classroom to present certificates for outstanding home learning habits. It was a special moment when we were able to award a certificate to every student in two classes. Congratulations to the students and families in Prep L and Prep F for this exceptional achievement.
With Thanks to Mr. Tony Corr on Principal’s Day
Last Friday was Principal’s Day, a special opportunity to recognise the outstanding work that principals do, not only here at Newhaven College but across Australia. To mark the occasion, Mr. Corr joined our Junior School Assembly and responded to questions from our students. Before that, students were invited to share their own ideas about what a principal actually does.
Mr. Corr, who is known for his strong work ethic and communication skills, kindly answered a few fun and thoughtful questions, including:
- What do you actually do as Principal of Newhaven College?
- What did you want to be when you were younger?
- Did you ever get sent to the Principal’s office?
- What is your favourite thing about being Principal of Newhaven College?
In his responses, Mr. Corr reflected on the influence of his own father, who was also a principal. He shared that yes, he had been sent to the principal’s office as a student, and that becoming a principal was something he had worked toward. When asked about his favourite part of the role, he said it was the strong sense of community at Newhaven College and, most importantly, the students.
Our students presented Mr. Corr with a handmade card and a small gift as a token of appreciation. On behalf of our entire school community, we thank Mr Tony Corr for his dedication, passion and strong leadership. We are grateful for the way he supports our students, staff, families and the wider Newhaven College community each day.
Welcoming the Ecumenical Schools Association Heads of Junior School
Next Monday, we are excited to welcome around 24 Heads of Junior School from across Victoria to Newhaven College as part of the Ecumenical Schools Association network retreat. We are proud to be hosting this professional learning event and look forward to showcasing the outstanding teaching, learning and strong sense of community that make Newhaven College and our Junior School such a special place.
NAPLAN Results
Year 3 families will have now received their child’s NAPLAN results. These provide a useful snapshot of progress in reading, writing, spelling, grammar and punctuation, and numeracy. NAPLAN helps us assess how students are progressing against national benchmarks. While these results are valuable, it is our classroom teachers who provide the most comprehensive picture of student growth through their daily observation and ongoing assessment.
The Importance of Attendance
Regular attendance and punctuality are essential for student success. In Semester 1, the Junior School’s average attendance rate was 88 percent, highlighting the importance of being at school every day. Attendance supports learning, friendships, routines and future opportunities. Attendance data was shared with families at the beginning of this term to support reflection. We encourage all families to aim for the highest possible attendance in Semester 2. If your child is facing any challenges that affect their attendance, please do not hesitate to reach out for support.
Prep – 100 Days of School
The year is flying by, and it is already time to celebrate 100 days of Prep. It feels like just yesterday our youngest learners began their journey at Newhaven College.
On Wednesday 13 August, Prep students are invited to dress with 100 items attached to their clothing. This could be anything from cotton balls to stickers or paper clips. The celebration will include a parade at 9.10 am around the Junior School classrooms. Families of Prep students are warmly invited to attend and enjoy this special milestone with us.
Book Week Parade
Book Week will take place in Week 5, with our Junior School Book Parade scheduled for Thursday 21 August at 9.30 am in the Collect. Families are welcome to attend and can purchase a coffee on this day from an onsite coffee cart while waiting for the parade to begin. We look forward to seeing our students dressed as their favourite book characters as we celebrate the joy of reading and storytelling together.
Colour Explosion Run – Friday 8 August
Cost: $10 per student (available via TryBooking). The cost includes entry, a pair of colourful sunglasses and an icy pole.
Dress: Students must wear all black so the colour powder stands out. A change of clothes is required for students catching the bus home. Students in school uniform will not be permitted to participate.
Prizes: There will be best-dressed awards and raffle prizes including:
- Family passes to Amaze N Things and Maru Koala Park
- $100 EB Games voucher
- $50 Isola Gelato voucher
- $50 Smiggle voucher
Parents are welcome to come and cheer on the students or volunteer to throw colour powder. All funds raised will go towards the development of our playground. We look forward to a colourful, fun-filled day for our school community.
Thank you for your continued support throughout the term. We look forward to sharing more learning moments and exciting events with you in the weeks ahead.
Cath Huther
Head of Junior School
Wine Down at Phillip Island Winery – A Great Evening for Prep Mums
Last Friday evening, around 25 of our fabulous Prep mums enjoyed a well-deserved night out at Wine Down — the cosy winter event held at Phillip Island Winery. With mulled wine in hand, a crackling fireplace, and great tunes setting the vibe, it was the perfect setting for a relaxed and fun social catch up.
Mrs Lynch and a few other faculty members joined us, making the evening even more special. For many, it was the first time connecting outside of school — with no kids in tow!
It was a lovely night of laughter, connection, and new friendships. The first of many more catch ups to come.
Thank you to everyone who attended — we can’t wait to do it again soon!
Kyoko Blondell
Prep Mum
Junior School Disco!
On the last day of semester 1, our Junior School students put on their flashiest disco gear and headed over to the pavilion to break some moves and have some fun!A group of enthusiastic Year 9 students managed the event, along with our Junior School staff, making it one of the best days of school so far for the Junior School! Mr T joined in the fun too, providing an array of glowing items to add to the disco inspired atmosphere.
Thank you to all who came along and assisted on the day.
Merit Awards
Congratulations to the students in the following photo who were presented with their Merit Awards and recognised at Junior School Assembly.
