Principal’s Report

What an amazing afternoon we had at the end of last term when we all ran around the oval and got colourful! It was so much fun – and the fun did not finish for Mrs. D. and myself – when we got surprise slimed!! Thank you to Mr. Appleby for hosing us down so we could at least enter the buildings! A big thanks to the parents who were able to help on the day and a very special thank you (except for the slime!) to Peta Woodyard for all of her fantastic co-ordination of this favourite event on the school calendar. We raised approximately $14,000 which will go towards playground equipment.

Hop onto your online profile and confirm your prizes ASAP please. If you do not wish to order prizes please email Peta.Woodyard@education.vic.gov.au to opt out.

Teachers completed Progress Reports for all of their students at the end of Term 1, available via Compass. This report is designed to give you a snapshot of how your child is going in regards to their effort in class, work habits and learning behaviours for Term 1. This is a new approach for 2025 to help keep parents and carers informed – please let me know if you have any queries.

We understand there were some glitches with accessing the reports, which hopefully now have been fixed. If you print out your child’s Progress Report, or download as a pdf, you will see all of the information regarding the different Areas of Assessment (AoA). Progress Reporting at EPS will capture a snapshot of a student’s learning behaviour within the classroom each term. These Areas of Assessment (AoA) cover a selection of executive functioning skills that educators deem important to overall student engagement and success at EPS.

Progress reports differ from end of semester reports in that:

  • They provide a ‘snapshot’ about how your child is demonstrating and applying their learning habits, rather than their academic progress.
  • They show your child’s progress on a 5-point scale rather than progression points or comments
  • You will be able to track your child’s progress in these AoAs across the year, with termly progress reports.

A BIG thank you to the families who were able to join us on the first Saturday of the school holidays – we had a lot of fun and got the jobs done! We mulched under the playground equipment, weeded, cleaned out the Frog Bog and disposed of a lot of debris and rubbish. We finished the morning off with a BBQ (provided by TheirCare!) for lunch and an Easter Egg Hunt! Thank you as always to Bronwyn Thomas-Smith for all of her support in running the day, and to Clinton Marshall for his help on the morning (and continuing afterwards!) also.

Thank you to these families for their support:

  • Soussan Family
  • Mayman Family
  • Hamilton/Hembrow Family
  • Gale Family
  • Porter Family
  • Giles Family
  • Litton/Spencer Family
  • Lee Family
  • Watson Family

Congratulations to Edith R. of Grade 6 and her horse, Jester, who came home as State Champions for Primary Preliminary Dressage, State Champions for Primary Novice Dressage, and Reserve State Champions for Combined Training 45cm, from the Interschool State Championships over the holidays. As well as this, Edith was awarded the prestigious “Nan McArthur Award” for highest achieving primary school competitor. This award is only given to one primary and one secondary student each year, she received a lovely garland, rug and trophy (see the photos!), and will have her name engraved on a perpetual trophy that is kept by Interschool Victoria. Emerald Primary School came 45th out of 150 schools, pretty amazing for a 1 person team!! We are all very proud of Edith, the hours that she puts into training for these events is incredible and she does it all with a smile on her face. In even more exciting news, she has been invited to join the Victorian team for the Interschool Nationals which is being held in the September school holidays in Sydney. She has accepted the position on the team and will be riding in the Novice Dressage and Combined Training 45cm. Good luck Edith and Jester!

All families will note on Compass that the Voluntary Curriculum Contribution amounts are accessible there for payment. We understand that 2025 has started as a challenging year for families economically, and so encourage you to make a payment plan for the year, or pay outright when you can. For last year, we were grateful to have had 50% of families pay these contribution amounts, but would really appreciate it if more families could put some money toward these this year, so that we can continue to conduct a full, rich program of learning at EPS. Please contact myself or Fiona Hogben, our Business Manager, for a chat if you would like to discuss payment options further.

Please be advised of the following student free days, when our staff will be completing professional learning activities or parent teacher interviews:

  • Thursday 3rd July – Parent-Teacher Interviews.
  • Monday 21st July – Curriculum Day: New Victorian Learning and Teaching Model 2.0
  • Friday 28th November – Professional Practice Day

For those families using the TheirCare childcare service , they are preparing to have students on the 3rd July, 21st July and 28th November dates: https://theircare.com.au/

  • April Events: Term 2
    • Tuesday 22nd April – First Day of Term 2
    • Friday 25th April – Anzac Day – Public Holiday
    • Wednesday 30th April – Wear Blue day for Make A Wish Australia
    • Wednesday 30th April – Cross Country – Grades 3 – 6
  • May Events:
    • Friday 2nd May – Assembly
    • Saturday 3rd May – Human Powered Vehicles – Casey Fields (selected Grade 6 Students)
    • Wednesday 7th May –  Open Day “Schools in Action” tours
    • Friday 9th May – Mothers Day Celebrations
    • Friday 16th May – Assembly
    • Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th May – Hills Ukulele Festival
    • Monday 19th – Friday 23rd May – Grade 6 Camp Woorabinda
    • Monday 26th May – National Sorry Day
    • Friday 30th May – Assembly

Emma Clark

Principal

Growth Mindset Awards!

Tige K

Tige has been doing an amazing job at learning new things at school! He always tries his best, even when something feels tricky. Whether it’s a new game, a fun task, or getting used to school, he keeps a big smile on his face and will persist if something doesn’t work the first time. It is a joy to watch Tige learn and grow!

Harli W

Harli has shown an incredible growth mindset as she began her school journey. From day one, she has approached each new challenge with a positive attitude, embracing the idea that learning comes with effort, practise, and perseverance.Even when things felt tough, Harli continues to try her best, always believing that mistakes are simply opportunities to grow. Her willingness to take on challenges and keep going is admirable. This award is a recognition of Harli’s dedication to learning and her ability to grow through every experience. Her effort, resilience, and positive attitude inspires everyone around her. Harli is a true example of what it means to have a growth mindset!

Kody M

Your wonderful qualities are a true asset to our classroom, including your kindness, thoughtfulness, enthusiasm and a growth mindset that will serve you well throughout your school years. Every day, you enter the classroom like a ray of sunshine, with a bright smile and a positive attitude. You demonstrate remarkable independence for someone your age, making you a natural leader and someone others can rely on. You face all tasks and challenges with eagerness, striving to do your best and celebrating the success that it brings. Well done on a fantastic start to Prep, Kody!

Lucy R

Lucy approaches all areas of her learning with quiet and determined focus and she consistently tries to improve on her personal best. She asks questions to improve her understanding of her concepts, regularly makes connections between subject areas and can clearly explain her thinking processes to her peers and teachers. When solving problems, which can place her in the Learning Pit, Lucy remains positive and will always apply a variety of strategies to achieve her goals. She has such a curious mind and will always try her best. Well done Lucy on your amazing mindset growth.

Kiara L

Kiara is a quiet but determined learner who always gives her best effort. She listens carefully, thinks through her work, and takes her time to get things right. She works well on her own and can adapt to working with different classmates when needed. Kiara challenges herself when she can and takes feedback on board to keep improving. Her focus and willingness to learn make her a great role model. Well done, Kiara!

Kiah K

Kiah is an exceptionally positive student who always gives ger very best to everything she tries. Even when things get challenging, she keeps a smile on her face and gives it her best shot. Her growth mindset helps her to continue building her skills and achieving her best. She even supports others when they need some help. What a super star!

Grace R

Grace has shown a fantastic growth mindset this term. She listens carefully, tries her best, and is always open to learning more. She shares her work with pride and takes on feedback with a smile, using it to make her work even better. Grace is also a thoughtful classmate—happy to share what she’s doing and just as happy to listen to others. Well done, Grace! You’re a champion!

Sophia W

Sophia demonstrates a fantastic growth mindset every day! She always has a go, tackling every challenge with a positive attitude and determination. She listens carefully, thinks deeply about her learning, and contributes thoughtfully to discussions. Her hard work and focus help her complete tasks to the best of her ability, and she even volunteers for extra challenges to push herself further. Sophia values feedback and uses it to improve, always striving to be the best she can be. Her perseverance, enthusiasm, and commitment to learning make her a true role model. Well done, Sophia – keep up the amazing work!

Emelia E

Emelia is a dedicated and hard working member of the classroom. She approaches every challenge with a positive mindset, always putting in her best effort as she strives for success. She actively listens to feedback and is always willing to up- level when required. She is kind and respectful towards others and is always eager to support and encourage her peers. Emelia’s determination, hard work, and love for learning show a true growth mindset. Well done!

Cooper K

Cooper is a dedicated student who consistently applies himself to all aspects of learning. He always embraces challenges, believing that with effort and practice, he can improve his skills. When Cooper makes a mistake, he sees it as a chance to learn and grow, never giving up on his goals. Cooper takes the initiative to ask questions and seeks help when needed, always eager to expand his knowledge. He approaches every lesson with infectious enthusiasm and determination. Congratulations to Cooper K, the recipient of the 3H Growth Mindset Award!

Noah C

Noah consistently demonstrates a positive attitude towards learning and challenges. He has a willingness to embrace mistakes as opportunities to grow. He shows perseverance, determination, and a true belief in his ability to improve. His hard work, curiosity, and enthusiasm to keep learning, no matter how tough things may get, is a true asset.
Congratulations on demonstrating a growth mindset and inspiring us all to try our best! Keep up the amazing work Noah!

Maddie W

Maddie W, you are the 4C Growth Mindset Award recipient. You always approach learning with a “can-do” attitude, embracing challenges with a smile, and bravely jumping into the learning pit at school. Your determination, positivity, and willingness to grow are to be admired and celebrated. I love how you believe in yourself and understand that learning takes effort. I hope you continue to grow and flourish.

Omela H

Omela is a shining light in our classroom and exudes passion for her learning. She has shown that perseverance, hard work, and the willingness to learn from challenges or mistakes, makes her a focussed and resilient student. She consistently has a mindset that is excited by seeking feedback and will try and try again until she has perfected her craft. She embraces a challenge with determination, and seeks opportunities to grow, dig deeper and shine brighter and understands the effort and positive mindset she needs to thrive in grade 4. Your enthusiasm is infectious and all of 4N think you are a superstar. Congratulations Omela.

Maddie M

Maddie demonstrates an exceptional growth mindset by showing a willingness to embrace challenges and view mistakes as opportunities for learning. Whether tackling difficult maths problems or improving reading skills, she consistently pushes herself to grow and improve. Maddie approaches every task with determination and persistence, always seeking ways to get better. She understands that hard work and effort lead to progress, and she inspires others to do the same. Keep up the amazing work!

Hazel C

For her ability to ask perceptive questions that cut to the heart of what she is learning about. She demonstrates complete confidence that new skills will be mastered with effort and focus as she navigates the ‘Learning Pit’. She is willing to make mistakes in her learning journey and is open to feedback to improve her work and understanding. What an amazing, positive attitude to her learning. Well done, Hazel!

Indianna M

Indianna is a student who consistently demonstrates a growth mindset in her approach to learning. She embraces challenges with enthusiasm and embraces opportunities to improve. Indianna has grown considerably in her resilience when faced with difficult tasks, persistently working through them and asking thoughtful questions when in the learning pit. Indianna’s ability to reflect on feedback and use it to further develop her skills is commendable. I am so proud of your personal success this year. Well done on being a motivated learner who strives to embrace the qualities of a Growth Mindset.

Marnie M

Whatever the task or the challenge, you consistently strive to achieve success with a strong growth mindset and a positive attitude. You seek and take on feedback to improve your work and your understanding of concepts across all curriculum areas, even using your initiative to work on building your skills at home. We are so impressed by your ‘can do’ attitude and your willingness to be in the Learning Pit. Keep up the amazing work, Marnie!

Hudson M

Hudson, your fantastic attitude and positive approach to learning make you a standout in 6A. I admire how you value learning and embrace challenges, which only serve to enhance your journey. Your determination and willingness to reflect and improve really set you apart, and that’s why you truly deserve this award. Congratulations, Hudson!

Ollie D

Ollie is being recognized with the Growth Mindset Award this term for his impressive dedication and perseverance. He has shown an outstanding commitment to his learning, always pushing himself to tackle challenging tasks with a positive attitude. Ollie actively uses his resources to support his learning and solve problems. He has embraced the learning process, understanding that challenges are part of growth and consistently working through the “learning pit” to reach success. Ollie should be incredibly proud of his effort and the progress he is making!

Charlotte K

Charlotte has shown incredible determination and growth already this year. Even when faced with challenges in her learning, she quietly perseveres and approaches each task with determination. She never gives up and always gives everything a go. Her steady effort and willingness to keep trying, no matter the difficulty, have led to fantastic progress already this year. Charlotte’s quirky personality and quiet resilience make her a valuable part of the class – keep kicking goals Charlotte!

Hannah M 1/2W

Hannah approaches Physical Education in such a positive manner. Even when she finds some tasks difficult she continues to try her best! Hannah also asks questions in order to improve her learning and important motor skills. Congratulations Hannah, the attitude you bring to the class is infectious. Well done!

Jensen B 6A

It has been fantastic to see Jensen approach Physical Education with such focus. He has worked hard on his athletics skills in events such as discus and shot put. Jensen is always willing to ask questions and listen to feedback in order to improve and master the set skill. Congratulations Jensen, you bring such positive energy to Physical Education. Well done!

Benji L Prep B

Benji has shown amazing creativity and determination in his visual art journey. Even when things were tricky, he kept trying, learning new ways to make his art even better and ensuring he works hard to complete his work. His positive attitude and hard work have helped him grow as an artist. This growth mindset award is a celebration of his courage to keep going, no matter the challenge. Keep up the great work!

Charlize G 6B

Charlize has demonstrated incredible growth and resilience in her journey as a visual artist. Through her dedication to learning new techniques, embracing feedback, and pushing the boundaries of her creativity, she has exemplified a growth mindset. Her passion for continuous improvement and her ability to turn challenges into opportunities have set her apart. This award recognises her commitment to evolving as an artist and her inspiring perseverance. Congratulations on this well-deserved achievement!

Indigo W 1/2 F

This award celebrates this student for consistently demonstrating a growth mindset in Year 1. With a positive attitude and an eagerness to try new things, this student has shown maturity and courage in embracing challenges. Her willingness to step out of her comfort zone and keep learning, no matter the outcome, is truly inspiring. This award recognizes her fantastic attitude and dedication to growth. Keep shining brightly, Indigo W.

Jackson P 6P

This award celebrates this student for demonstrating a remarkable growth mindset in Year 6. Through dedication and resilience, this student has shown exceptional progress in self-regulating his work expectations and emotions. With a positive attitude and perseverance, he has embraced challenges, learned from setbacks, and consistently strived to improve. Keep up the amazing work!

Audrey S 1/2F

Audrey has an excellent growth mindset in her approach to learning Nihongo. Her work is of a very high standard and she is always enthusiastic and diligent during lessons. Congratulations, Audrey!

Albie W 4N

Albie applies himself excellently to all tasks in Nihongo, making the most of every opportunity to learn a second language. He is also a wonderful help whenever he sees the need. It is a real pleasure to nominate this student and celebrate his strides to building on his growth mindset. Congratulations, Albie!

Kirby P 1/2H

Kirby P is the ultimate ‘quiet achiever’ with an admirable growth mindset. She always listens attentively and happily contributes to STEM class discussions. Kirby demonstrates a keen desire to learn and achieve. Her willingness to confront challenges and consistently give it her best shot is evident in all class activities. Kirby is a conscientious student who always presents her work beautifully and to a high standard. Keep up the positive attitude to learning and keep believing in yourself Kirby! Congratulation to the junior STEM Growth Mindset Recipient for Term One 2025.

Allan H 6B

This student is a deserving recipient for his outstanding participation and positive attitude towards the learning task this term. It has been lovely watching your enthusiasm when learning new things – keep up the great work!

This week …

EPS is participating in “World Wish Month” during April to support Make-A-Wish Australia. We are planning to hold our “Wear Blue” day next Wednesday 30th April, with a gold coin donation going towards this charity which helps to bring wishes to life for critically ill children.

Please see some further information attached. Thank you to Lisa Dangerfield and family for their support in running this day.

If so please bring them to the Emerald SES to be recycled. Emerald Primary School is now a registered donation partner with the Victorian Container Deposit Scheme. So your rubbish can be recycled and each empty container earns 10c. Please donate the money you collect to our school, so we can fundraise for more drink taps on the school oval.

If you pack a juice box or an up and go in your child’s lunch box, please inform them that there will be a designated bin in their classroom for the ten cent bottles and cartons to be collected in.

In addition, parents can donate eligible containers from home directly to the SES and nominate EPS to receive the funds. This is a great opportunity to support our school.

Kind regards the Early Act Team

Upcoming Events …

Dear EPS Families.

The Paradise Valley Hotel has very generously offered to let Emerald Primary School Hills Ukulele Festival run the Hotel Meat Raffle next Friday the 2nd of May as a fund raiser for the Hills Ukulele Festival. Events will be starting at 6pm.

Your family is cordially invited to join us at the Paradise.

Meals and drinks are available for purchase at the bar.

A Live Band will be performing and an amazing Meat Tray will be up for grabs to the winning Raffle Ticket.

Hope to See you There.

Community News

A draft masterplan has been prepared for Puffing Billy Place Reserve in Emerald and we’re seeking your feedback on the draft designs.

Park users of all ages are encouraged to share feedback on the types of park furniture and playground design they prefer.

How to get involved and have your say:

  • Attend a Pop up in the Park with Aligned Leisure 
  • Wednesday 9 April 2025, from 1-3pm
  • Puffing Billy Park and Playground, 13 Kilvington Dr, Emerald VIC 3782
  • Attend a Pop-up in the park with Council
  • Tuesday 6 May 2025, from 3-5pm
  • Puffing Billy Park and Playground, 13 Kilvington Dr, Emerald VIC 3782

Completing the  online survey at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay by Sunday 18 May.

Share This Newlsetter!

Canteen News!

Important Notice: The canteen will be closed during the first week of Term 2. Please plan accordingly. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding.

SCHOOL EVENTS

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