Welcome to our school newsletter - "your local school....our local community" 

Dear Parent and Carers,

Hopefully, the brief taste of warmer weather will stay around. The recent rain has made break times challenging, with students spending much of their time indoors over the past two weeks. Despite this, the students have adjusted remarkably well.

English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D) Teacher

Students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds who learn English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D) may need extra support in the classroom. EAL/D teachers provide targeted English language instruction to help students develop their literacy and English language skills.

I’d like to welcome Mrs Wendy Alam to Putney. Mrs Alam is a qualified primary teacher who has completed approved TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) studies. She is passionate about developing the literacy skills of culturally and linguistically diverse students at Putney. She has been assessing our EAL/D students’ English language proficiency, and designing individualised lessons focusing on listening, speaking, reading and writing English. Mrs Alam is also keen to work collaboratively with our teachers to support them in developing learning programs and teaching practices for EAL/D students. Mrs Alam will be working at Putney 3 days a week (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday).

Professional learning

I’m proud of our staff who are continually improving their skills in using explicit teaching strategies to enhance student learning. Ms Sullivan leads our teachers through professional learning and has been actively working in classrooms to demonstrate best practice. Last Tuesday, Ms Sullivan, Ms Scarcella, Mrs Elle, and I had the opportunity to visit Charlestown South Public School, which has been on the explicit teaching journey longer than Putney. During our visit, we were able to observe these strategies in action and engage in meaningful discussions about their implementation.

Year One Phonics Screener

The Year One Phonics Screener is an assessment tool used in NSW schools to evaluate the phonics knowledge and skills of students in Year One. It helps teachers identify students' ability to decode words using phonics, which is essential for developing reading skills. The screener typically involves students reading a list of real and nonsense words aloud, allowing educators to assess their understanding of letter-sound relationships and their ability to apply phonics rules. Our Stage 1 teachers are assessing the students this week and will be using the data to support targeted instruction to help students improve their reading proficiency.

Check In Assessments

The Check-in assessment is an annual online assessment for students in Years 3 to 9 in NSW Public Schools. All students complete a reading test and a numeracy test. Year 6 students also complete a writing task. Our assessments are scheduled to take place in Week 9 this term. The results provide extra data to analyse and further support our students. Check-in Assessments complement other assessment tools that we use and contribute to improving student outcomes across our school. 

Book Week

Last Thursday afternoon was a wonderful celebration of literature as we saw our students thrilled to dress up as their favourite book character during our annual book parade. We appreciate the parents and carers who joined us for this special event despite the inclement weather. A special thank you goes to Mrs Fowler for bringing the magic of Book Week to life for our students.

Fathers’ Day Breakfast

We are looking forward to welcoming fathers, grandfathers and father figures for our Father’s Day breakfast on Friday 5th September on the Koala Courts. The school band will be performing and those who can join us are encouraged to wear their favourite team jersey or colours for Jersey Day. Click here to RSVP to the breakfast.

Jersey Day

Jersey Day 2025 will be held on Friday, September 5, which coincides with our Fathers’ Day breakfast. The event encourages Australians to wear their favourite sporting jerseys to raise awareness for organ and tissue donation and to prompt conversations with family about becoming an organ donor. This campaign is all about raising awareness – there is no requirement to raise funds. We encourage students, staff and parents to wear their team’s colours on that day.

Student Achievements

We have recently seen wonderful success in the extracurricular activities offered to our HPGE (High Potential Gifted Education) students. I’m incredibly proud of Reuben O and Joshua Q for their outstanding performances in the Regional Spelling Bee, as well as Laura Q, who proudly represented our school at the Regional Public Speaking competition on Tuesday. Laura’s dedication has truly paid off, and this experience has sparked a new passion for her. Many thanks to Mrs Ignazzi for supporting our public speakers and to Mrs Martin for coordinating our students’ participation in the Spelling Bee.

2026 Student enrolments

Planning for 2026 is now in progress. To assist our Executive team in organising class structures and staff assignments, please notify the school by email if your child will not be returning in 2026. This will help us better estimate the expected enrolments for next year.

On Wednesday, I attended a Principal Network meeting at Riverside Girls’ High, which is my alma mater. During the meeting, we had the chance to view HSC Major Works in Art and Design and Technology. I was truly impressed by the quality of the work and delighted to see the achievements of former students. I always appreciate the opportunity to visit our local high schools and witness the development of our students as they advance through their secondary education.

Mrs Brooks

Understanding Our School’s Resilience Data

Recently, students in Years 3–6 participated in the Resilient Youth Australia survey, which helps us better understand the wellbeing and resilience of our school community. The Resilience Score Report summarises student responses across areas such as confidence, connection, safety, and engagement.

Our data shows:

• 61% of learners are resilient – they show strong coping skills, confidence, and connection with others.

• 24% are moderately resilient – they are developing these skills but may sometimes need extra encouragement.

• 7% are less resilient – these students may find it harder to cope and benefit from additional support.

• 8% are moderately vulnerable – they are at greater risk of struggling with wellbeing and need targeted support.

This data helps us celebrate the strengths of most of our learners while also identifying where we can focus our wellbeing programs to ensure every child feels safe, connected, and supported.

Mrs Martin & Ms Sullivan

Toucans- STEM - Marble Run

Toucan students worked collaboratively in groups to plan and construct a self-supporting marble run within the given timeframe.

Mrs Fletcher & Mrs Gatt

Puffins Take Flight: Debates, Popcorn Science, and Punny Fun!

Puffins Step Into Quinn’s Shoes

Stage 2 Puffins took part in a Conscience Alley debating activity to explore a big decision from The Callers. Two lines of students formed an “alley” and called out reasons for Quinn to either stay in Evantra or return to Elipsom. This activity encouraged everyone to think deeply about the character’s choices while practising empathy, critical thinking, and persuasive speaking.

Popping Corn!

The Puffins have been busy scientists, exploring how heat and electricity work. To test their ideas, they used popcorn! Students observed how heat energy changes the kernels into fluffy popcorn and discussed how electricity can be used to power machines that make this happen. The classroom was filled with curiosity (and the smell of freshly popped corn!) as students connected their science learning to real-world experiences.

Punny Stories 

Stage 2 Puffins are diving into the world of wordplay! In recent weeks, they’ve been creating pun-tastic puns, twisting words and meanings to make everyone giggle. From clever quips to laugh-out-loud jokes, these Puffins are proving that their brains are just as sharp as their beaks!

Mrs Martin

2025 NSW Regional Spelling Bee 

We are proud to celebrate the outstanding efforts of our students, Reuben (Junior competitor) and Joshua (Senior competitor), who recently competed in the Regional NSW Spelling Bee Competition. These talented spellers demonstrated exceptional dedication, focus, and enthusiasm as they tackled challenging words and represented our school with pride.

Competing against 30 schools from across NSW, Reuben reached round 6 before being eliminated, correctly spelling words such as prosecution and beautician. Joshua advanced to round 12 of the unseen words before being eliminated, tying for third place with another student. He successfully spelled challenging words like propaganda and archipelago.

The Spelling Bee is a valuable experience that helps improve spelling and vocabulary skills, as well as build confidence. We appreciate Reuben and Joshua’s commitment and participation.

Well done to both students for their involvement, and we look forward to supporting them in future activities.

Mrs Martin

Pythons @ Got Game

On Wednesday, Pythons continued with the Team Games program run by Got Game. We learnt that a team's success and enjoyment depend on the contribution of every member, from accurate throws, to speedy feet, to encouraging cheers, and everything in between. 

Mr Fung

Ryde Zone Athletics Carnival

Despite the rainy weather, the Putney Zone Team showed great determination and spirit at the recent Ryde Zone Athletics Carnival. Competing in challenging conditions, they gave their best in a range of track and field events, demonstrating resilience and teamwork throughout the day.

We congratulate all participants for their effort and sportsmanship, especially given the wet conditions. Your effort and sportsmanship made us proud.

Thank you to the parents who supported our athletes on the day. We look forward to more opportunities to celebrate our students’ sporting achievements in the future.

The following students will now progress to the Sydney North Athletics Carnival:

• Eleanor (8yrs) - 100m 

• Chloe (11yrs) - 100m, 200m, long jump

• Neena (12yrs) - 200m

We would like to wish these students well in the next rounds at Sydney Olympic Park Athletic Centre on Monday the 22nd of September. 

Mrs Martin

R U OK? Day 

On Thursday, 11 September, Putney Public School will be acknowledging R U OK? Day, a national day of action dedicated to reminding everyone to check in on the people around them and start meaningful conversations that can make a difference.

To mark the day, we encourage all students to wear a splash of yellow. Yellow is the colour of positivity and hope, reminding us to bring warmth, light, and care to those around us. A splash of yellow could be a ribbon, hair accessory, wristband, socks, or another small item of clothing.

Classes will also be taking part in discussions and activities that highlight the importance of kindness, empathy, and supporting one another.

We encourage families to continue these conversations at home and take the opportunity to ask a friend, neighbour, or family member, “Are you OK?” A small conversation can make a big difference.

SRC

Bunnings

Gladesville Bunnings are organising another free and fun carpark event for families just before Father’s Day on Thursday 4th September 2025, from 5pm to 7pm.

• Free sausage sizzle sandwich, drink and popcorn

• Kids can have their face painted, do some biscuit decorating, do some craft and have an ice cream cone

• Spin the wheel for parents, and a lucky dip for kids.

A visiting rally car will be on display, and there will be a games corner for all the family to enjoy.

Register through this link if you plan on attending so they can cater accordingly D.I.Y. Workshops And Activities - Bunnings Australia.

Screens, Teens & Tweens: Helping families improve digital mental health

We have been approached by Nick Kenny, a motivational speaker who is offering to deliver a session to parents on managing screen time.

The outcomes of this session would be:

✅ The neuroscience of devices and impact on developing brains

✅ Simple & effective tips to manage screen time and minimise harm

✅ How to create and maintain effective boundaries

✅ Research-backed guidelines for specific ages

✅ Learn how to create and model healthy habits

If you would be interested in attending this session please email info@putneypc.org.au. We will only proceed if we receive enough people interested.

Indigenous Literacy Day Aboriginal Storytelling through Art workshop

 The workshop introduces children to traditional symbols representing people, the land, and animals, and guides them in creating and presenting their own stories. This creative, intercultural experience is a great way to increase our younger generation to the storytelling of our Indigenous and First nations people.

• Where: Ryde Library

• When: Thurs 4 Sept 2025

• Time: 4.30pm – 5.30pm

• Ages: 5yrs +

• Bookings: Click Here

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