2025 Term 2 Week 2

Important Dates

Principal's Report

Welcome

Welcome back to Term 2 at Eastwood Public School. It’s been lovely to see our students return after the break, refreshed and ready for the term ahead. The school grounds feel complete again with the sound of chatter, laughter, and classrooms full of activity. We hope all families enjoyed some rest and quality time together over the holidays.

The start of a new term is always a positive time. Students ease back into routines, reconnect with friends and teachers, and begin to re-engage with the many aspects of school life. There’s a quiet sense of momentum building across the school as we look ahead to the weeks to come, with a variety of learning opportunities and school events planned.

We’re looking forward to a steady and productive term. Thank you to all families for your ongoing support and partnership. We’re glad to have everyone back and are looking forward to another term of growth, connection, and shared success.

Each Can Step Walk-a-thon – Tuesday, July 1

We’re thrilled to announce that our Each Can Step Walk-a-thon will take place on Tuesday, July 1 - a major whole-school event that brings together fitness, fun and community spirit, all in support of a great cause.

This year, we’re aiming to raise $50,000 to fund the installation of new fixed playground equipment and a purpose-built sensory room—two projects that will have a lasting and meaningful impact for our students. To reach our goal, we need the support and enthusiasm of the entire Eastwood community.

Right now, just over 100 students have set up fundraising profiles—but with more than 700 students at Eastwood, we know we can do better. Our goal is for every class to have at least 10 active fundraisers by the end of this week. Whether it’s $5 or $50, every contribution helps us take a step closer to creating something truly special for our school.

We’re encouraging all families to get involved by helping their child create a fundraising profile and spreading the word to friends, family and neighbours. It’s simple, quick, and a great way for students to feel part of something bigger.

There will be weekly prizes for the top fundraising classes, and class progress will be updated regularly. Let’s keep the momentum going and show just how incredible the Eastwood community can be.

To get started or make a donation, visit:

👉 https://eastwoodpswalkathon.goraiseit.com.au

Thank you for your continued support—we can’t wait to step it out together on July 1.

School Uniform

Thank you to all parents and carers who have supported our uniform policy—it’s been great to see so many students in full school uniform this week. The sea of Eastwood blue in the playground reflects the strong sense of belonging and pride we share as a school community.

As we move into the colder months, a reminder that all students are expected to wear their full winter uniform each day. This includes:

• Black school shoes (except on designated Sports Days)
• A school hat for outdoor activities
• Black or navy stockings (if worn for warmth)
  

We’ve noticed a number of students still wearing non-uniform caps, including those with sports logos. We kindly ask that these be replaced with the official Eastwood school hat as soon as possible.

Maintaining a consistent school uniform helps promote a positive school culture and sense of identity. For more information or to purchase items, please contact the Uniform Shop.

Thank you for your continued support in upholding these expectations.

Eastwood Uniform Shop

Cross Country Carnival at Eastwood Oval

There was the unmistakable scent of Dencorub in the air, mixed with sunscreen, sweat, and a dash of nervous energy, as students from Years 3–6 took to Eastwood Oval for our annual Cross Country Carnival. With sneakers laced, water bottles at the ready, and competitive spirits running high, students gave it their all—some racing like seasoned athletes, others jogging (or enthusiastically walking) their way to the finish line. Regardless of pace, the atmosphere was filled with encouragement, laughter, and a healthy dose of determination.

A big congratulations to all students who participated—it was wonderful to see such great sportsmanship and persistence across every race. A special well done to our top cross-country runners, who will go on to represent Eastwood Public School at the Zone Cross Country Carnival on Wednesday, May 21. We know they’ll do us proud.

Eastwood Ballet Group Shine in Audition Submission

Our talented Eastwood Public School ballet group has been hard at work, preparing and rehearsing for their upcoming audition—and we’re proud to share that their official video submission has now been sent off for consideration in upcoming performances.

The students have shown incredible commitment, practising with focus, grace, and determination. Their dedication to refining each movement and working as a team has truly paid off, and it was wonderful to see their confidence grow with each rehearsal.

A very special thank you goes to Ms Boulas and Ms Gasparre, who have led the group with passion and patience—often giving up their own lunchtimes to support the students. Their guidance, encouragement, and behind-the-scenes effort have made this opportunity possible, and we are so grateful.

We wish our ballet group the very best of luck—we’re already so proud of all they’ve achieved.

Facebook

Eastwood Public School has so much to be proud of—and we love celebrating the talents, achievements, and spirit of our students with our community. To showcase the many wonderful things happening across the school, we regularly post photos and highlights on the Eastwood Public School Facebook page.

This page is dedicated to celebrating our students—whether it’s classroom creativity, sporting achievements, performances, or special events. It’s not intended for day-to-day school communication or distributing notes, but rather as a place to share and acknowledge the amazing things happening at Eastwood.

We invite all families to take a look and join us in recognising the efforts of our students and staff.

Please have a look:

Eastwood Public School Facebook

Student's Arrival and Departure Times - A Safety Reminder

We are becoming increasingly concerned about the number of students arriving at school well before supervision begins, as well as those who are not being collected until well after dismissal time. While we understand that occasional delays happen, regular early arrivals and late pick-ups pose a serious safety risk.

The school’s expectation is that students arrive from 8:40am onwards and are collected no later than 3:10pm. There is no teacher supervision before or after these times, and in the event of an emergency, the consequences could be significant. Student safety is always our top priority.

If you are running late in the afternoon or need to make alternate arrangements, we ask that you please call the school as soon as possible, or organise for a trusted friend or family member to collect your child. For families requiring more regular support, our Before and After School Care service offers a reliable, safe option for both mornings and afternoons.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support in keeping our students safe.

School Grounds

We’d like to remind all families to please use the designated pedestrian entrances when entering and exiting the school grounds. The staff car park is not to be used as a walkway, and it is not an approved access point for students or parents at any time.

Unfortunately, last week two students were nearly hit by a car while walking through the car park with their parents. This is a serious safety concern. Once repairs are complete, the car park gate will be locked at all times, including weekends, to prevent further risk.

Please note that the car park is strictly for staff use only. Parents are not permitted to drive into, park in, or walk through the car park under any circumstances. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us keep all students safe during drop-off and pick-up.

Stage 3 Canberra Camps

There’s plenty of excitement building as our Stage 3 students get ready for their upcoming Canberra camps! Year 5 will be heading off in Week 3, with Year 6 following in Week 4. School camp is always a highlight of the year—it’s a wonderful chance for students to develop confidence, independence and teamwork, all while making lasting memories with their peers. 🌟💬

While in Canberra, students will visit some of Australia’s most significant institutions and attractions. Highlights include Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, Questacon, the Royal Australian Mint, Old Parliament House, and more. They’ll experience first-hand how our government works, explore key moments in our nation’s history, and enjoy the hands-on fun of science, innovation and culture. 🏛️🔬🎒

These camps are not only educational, but also a fantastic opportunity for students to step outside their comfort zones, try new things, and build friendships in a supportive and exciting environment. We can’t wait to hear all about their adventures when they return. 📸😊

Thank you, 

Michael Kammerer, Principal

Deputy Principal's Report

Kindergarten Happenings

This term KF have been enjoying the opportunity to learn through investigations. They have been exploring mass, push and pull, construction and art through hands-on activities. KF are working on improving their reading skills through daily paired reading. It has been amazing to see their growth in skills!

Stage 1 Happenings

1C have been working hard in English, building on our knowledge to create compound sentences using interesting noun groups and prepositions. We’ve enjoyed exploring and comparing imaginative and informative texts about ants, and our word wall is growing with exciting new additions. We’d also like to wish all our wonderful mothers a very happy Mother’s Day this weekend – thank you for all that you do for us!

Stage 2 Happenings

Students in 3C have settled back into Term 2 feeling well-rested and ready to learn. This past week, they have been exploring the topic of data in Mathematics. The unit involves posing relevant questions, collecting data, and learning how to display and interpret their findings using various methods such as lists, tally tables, dot plots and column graphs. As part of their learning, students played a fun beanbag toss game, where they recorded their scores as a list and then organised their results using a tally table. It’s been a great start to the term as students engage with hands-on activities and real-world applications of data and statistics. We are looking forward to learning and discovering even more exciting topics throughout the term.

Stage 3 Happenings

It has been a fantastic year for Class 5VH! Our students have shown outstanding enthusiasm and commitment to their learning, embracing each day with curiosity and an eagerness to learn. Whether it's diving deep into literacy and numeracy tasks, engaging in science investigations, or exploring the wider curriculum, the students of 5VH continue to strengthen their knowledge, understanding and skill acquisition across all Key Learning Areas.

A real highlight this term has been our buddy sessions with our Year 1 buddy class. These lessons provide a special opportunity for 5VH students to develop their leadership and communication skills. They have taken on these roles with care and maturity, showing wonderful empathy and teamwork. Through these interactions, as well as through class programs, students have continued to build important social-emotional skills, particularly persistence, resilience, and getting along with others.

We also have a class full of keen and creative artists! 5VH students have explored a variety of artistic techniques this term and have created vibrant, thoughtfully structured artworks that showcase both imagination and technical skill.

We’re incredibly proud of the positive attitude and effort 5VH brings to all areas of school life and look forward to an exciting term ahead!

Mrs Vaux and Ms Hu

Student Wellbeing at Eastwood Public School: A Foundation for Success

At Eastwood Public School, we believe that student wellbeing is at the heart of learning. When children feel safe, supported, and emotionally regulated, they are more engaged, resilient, and ready to thrive academically.

Wellbeing is more than just feeling happy—it includes a student’s emotional, social and mental health. Our teachers know that when students are able to recognise and manage their emotions, build positive relationships, and feel a sense of belonging, they are more likely to succeed in the classroom.

Research shows that students with strong wellbeing:

• Have improved focus and memory
  
  
• Are more confident learners
  
  
• Form stronger friendships and work well with others
  
  
• Are more likely to persevere through challenges.

To support this, we integrate wellbeing into daily school life:

• Wellbeing check-ins help students reflect on their emotions and seek support when needed.
  
  
• Explicit lessons develop emotional intelligence, social skills and resilience.
  
  
• Support structures are in place for students who need additional help managing emotions or behaviour.
  
  
• Staff wellbeing training ensures our teachers are equipped to create calm, connected classrooms.
  
  

We also partner with families to support wellbeing at home. Encouraging routines, healthy sleep, open communication and time to relax all make a big difference to how students feel and learn each day.

Together, we can ensure our children are not just academically capable, but also emotionally strong and ready for all of life’s opportunities.

Walk Safely to School Day

SAVE THE DATE - NATIONAL WALK SAFELY TO SCHOOL DAY IS ON FRIDAY 16TH MAY 2025

Primary school aged children across Australia will make those important steps towards a healthier future by participating in National Walk Safely to School Day on Friday 16 May 2025.

This year marks the 26th anniversary of National Walk Safely to School Day. Championed by the Pedestrian Council Australia, the initiative aims to raise awareness of the health, road safety, transport and environmental benefits that regular walking, or alternative active transport (especially to and from school) can provide for the long term wellbeing of our children, not just on 16 May, but every day.

Apart from the physical benefits, regular walking also has a favourable impact on children's cognitive and academic performance. 

Walk Safely to School Day also encourages positive environmental action, better use of public transport with reduced car-dependency and encourages parents and carers to walk more, reducing dangerous traffic congestion around schools.

Harold Scruby, CEO of the Pedestrian Council of Australia said that "until they are 10, children must always hold the hand of an adult when crossing the road".

“The best exercise for all Australians is walking regularly. Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day. We should encourage them to take a walk before school, during and at the end of their day,” Harold Scruby said.

Being active every day, including walking to school, can help make a difference for many Australians. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or carer - everyone has a role to play in helping children and young people to lead active healthy lives. 

Scholastic Book Club

A reminder that the closing date for orders for Issue 3 of Book Club is Friday 16th May 2025.

Languages

Year 6 Korean Class - Term 1 Learning Highlights

Last term, Year 6 Korean students explored the theme “Eating at a Restaurant.” Through a variety of speaking, listening, reading, and writing activities, they deepened their understanding of both the Korean language and the cultural etiquette involved in dining experiences in Korea.

Understanding Text Students analysed a range of authentic Korean restaurant menus, focusing on design features such as food and drink options, pricing, layout, font styles, colour schemes, and visual appeal. They discussed what made each menu effective and suggested possible improvements.

Creating Text Using PowerPoint, students designed their own digital Korean restaurant menus. Each menu included a restaurant name, a variety of food and drink items with prices, appealing images, and creative features such as set menus, daily specials, and lunch deals to enhance engagement.

Interacting In groups, students wrote and performed role-plays set in a Korean restaurant. Their dialogues included practical conversations such as ordering food and drinks, asking about allergens, and paying the bill, and incorporated culturally appropriate expressions to enhance authenticity.

Throughout the unit, students demonstrated creativity, teamwork, and enthusiasm in every task.

Please take a look at the photos below to see their vibrant role-plays and impressive digital menu designs!

Counsellor Corner

Welcome to Counsellor Corner! This new section of the newsletter is a space for our School Counsellor and Psychologists (Dennis Govender and Sarah Knipler) to share wellbeing resources to help your child thrive. This may include parenting programs, support services, and practical tips.

What is the School Counselling Service?

School counselling staff are part of the school's Learning and Support Team. They provide a psychological counselling, assessment and intervention service for students.

Support Service Spotlight - Parent Line NSW

You may have heard of Kids Helpline, a free counselling service for children and young people, but did you know there’s also a free support line for parents and carers?

Parent Line NSW offers counselling support over the phone to parents who are experiencing parenting challenges and would like some guidance. Their counsellors can talk to you about a wide range of concerns, such as managing challenging behaviours, problematic screen use, and coping with family stress.

Interpreters are available if needed, making the service more accessible for all families. See the flyer below for more information about common topics parents call about and how to access the service.

📞 Parent Line NSW: 1300 1300 52

🕐 Open 9am – 9pm weekdays, 4pm – 9pm weekends

Upcoming Parenting Programs and Webinars

We will regularly share upcoming community programs and webinars to support you in your parenting journey. Flyers and registration details will be included below. Keep an eye out for opportunities that may suit your family’s needs.

Music

Mid-Year Concert is coming soon! - Tuesday 17th June at 6:30pm: School Hall.

Please join us for an entertaining evening of music! Tickets are limited so get in early!

To book your tickets, please click on the link below:

https://www.trybooking.com/DBNXT

🎶 Junior Piano – 1 Spots Left! - We have two remaining spots for Junior Piano next term!

🎶 Concert Band – We need members who can play saxophone, clarinet and flute.

👉 If you are interested, please complete the form below, and we will reach out with further details:

Expression of Interest Form

🎼 2025 Performance Schedule

📅 Term 1:

• Wednesday, 21 March (9:00 AM) – SSP Workshop (Malcolm - piano, Minchan- Trumpet, Chamber Orchestra)
• Sunday, 13 April (2:30 PM) – The Vegetable Plot Performance (Chamber Orchestra)
  

📅 Term 2:

• Monday, 16 June (9:00 AM) – Sydney Eisteddfod (String Orchestra)
• Tuesday, 17 June – Mid-Year Concert (All Ensembles)
• Thursday, 26 June (9:30 AM - 1:30 PM) – FOIM Rehearsal (Chamber Orchestra)

📅 Term 3:

• Monday, 28 July (TBC) – Ryde Eisteddfod (Junior Piano)
• Tuesday, 28 July (TBC) – Ryde Eisteddfod (Senior Piano)
• Tuesday, 12 August (TBC) – Ryde Eisteddfod (String Orchestra)
• Tuesday, 26 August (All Day) – FOIM – Banksia Concert (Chamber Orchestra)

📅 Term 4:

• October (TBC) – Granny Smith Festival (Chamber Orchestra)
• 3-4 November – Music Camp (2 Days & 1 Night) (All Ensembles)
• Tuesday, 25 November – End-of-Year Concert (All Ensembles)
• December (TBC) – KU Performance (String Orchestra)

🎻 2025 Ensemble Groups & Rehearsal Schedule

• Senior Piano: Monday, 7:45 - 8:45 AM
• Concert Band: Tuesday, 7:50 - 8:50 AM
• String Orchestra: Thursday, 8:00 - 9:00 AM
• Chamber Orchestra: Thursday, 8:00 - 9:00 AM
• Junior Piano: Friday, 7:45 - 8:45 AM

🤝 Get Involved with Us!

To keep fees low, we rely on parent volunteers to help coordinate and support our music program. If you're interested in assisting, please reach out at music.eastwoodps@gmail.com

📌 Note: All parent volunteers must have a valid Working with Children Check, which can be obtained via the Service NSW website. Thank you for your support!

Any other information: 🔗 EPS Instrumental Music Program Website

Thank you for supporting our young musicians! 🎶✨

Merit Awards

Community News