NAIDOC Week Assembly - Monday, 29th June 2026
10:00am to 11:00am in the School Hall
Week 7 & 8 of Term 2
Dear Appin Public School families,
As we approach the end of another busy and successful term, I continue to be incredibly proud of all that our students, staff and community have achieved together. Across the school, students have embraced a wide range of opportunities both inside and outside the classroom, from public speaking, debating and creative arts to sporting competitions and leadership initiatives. It has been wonderful to see our students challenge themselves, develop new skills and represent our school with pride. This newsletter celebrates the many successes of our Years 3–6 students and highlights just some of the outstanding achievements and opportunities that have made this term so memorable.
Thank You to Our P&C
Our school is incredibly fortunate to have such a dedicated and supportive P&C. Their ongoing commitment to our students, staff and wider community continues to make a significant difference to the opportunities we can provide at Appin Public School.
A huge thank you to the P&C for their support in launching our Breakfast Club. What began as a conversation late last year has now become a reality, providing students with a positive start to the school day. This initiative would not be possible without the generosity of our parent volunteers who give their time so willingly to support our students.
I would also like to extend my congratulations to Jodie, who has spread her wings beyond our local community and is now serving as a NSW P&C Federation Board Member and Director for the Macarthur Region. This is a wonderful achievement and a reflection of Jodie's passion and commitment to public education. We are incredibly proud to have her representing our community at this level.
Communication with the School
We value the strong partnerships we have with our families and always welcome communication between home and school. To ensure enquiries are directed to the appropriate staff member and can be followed up effectively, we kindly ask that all correspondence be sent via the school email address rather than directly to individual teachers.
This process helps us ensure communications are recorded appropriately, support can be provided where needed, and enquiries can be responded to in a timely and consistent manner. Thank you for your support in helping us maintain effective communication across our school community.
Wellbeing Week Success
Our recent Wellbeing Week was a fantastic celebration of connection, kindness and belonging. Students participated in a range of activities designed to promote positive relationships, resilience and wellbeing, including Tai Chi sessions, kindness lessons, our Do It For Dolly fundraiser, and our "Bullying No Way" activities. It was wonderful to see students engaging enthusiastically and reflecting on the importance of respect, inclusion and supporting one another.
A special thank you to Miss Kennedy and Mrs Martin for their outstanding organisation of the week, and to Mrs Jelbart, our Wellbeing Officer, who also coordinated a Wellbeing Lunch for staff. We are also pleased to welcome Mrs Bail to our team. Mrs Bail will be supporting students in the Wellbeing Space and has joined our Aboriginal Education Team. We look forward to the positive contribution she will make to our school community.
Student Code of Conduct
In line with the NSW Department of Education's commitment to creating safe, respectful and positive learning environments, all NSW public schools have now implemented the revised Student Code of Conduct. The updated code sets clear expectations for student behaviour across all school settings, including online and off-site activities.
Throughout this term, the executive team and I have met with students across each stage to discuss these expectations and reinforce the high standards we hold at Appin Public School. These conversations have focused on creating a safe, inclusive and respectful environment where every student can learn, thrive and succeed.
From the beginning of 2027, parents and carers will be asked to acknowledge the Student Code of Conduct annually as part of ongoing school processes. Thank you for your continued support in helping us maintain a respectful, positive and safe school community.
Trading Cards at School
Over recent weeks, the school has experienced an increasing number of student disputes, friendship issues and parent concerns relating to the trading of football cards, Pokémon cards and other collectible cards at school. After careful consideration, the Executive Team has made the decision to prohibit trading cards from being brought to school.
Our primary focus is ensuring that school remains a safe, positive and productive learning environment. While trading cards can be enjoyable, they have increasingly become a source of conflict, distraction and concern, taking valuable time away from teaching, learning and student wellbeing.
From Monday of Week 9, students who bring trading cards to school will have them collected by staff and returned to them at the end of the school day. Students will be reminded that trading cards are not to be brought to school.
From the commencement of Week 10, any student who brings trading cards to school will have the cards confiscated and parents/carers will be contacted to reinforce the school's expectation that trading cards remain at home.
We appreciate the support of our families in helping us maintain a positive learning environment for all students.
Celebrating the Creative Arts
We are fortunate to have so many talented students who embrace opportunities in the creative arts. Thank you to Mrs Earnshaw, who has worked tirelessly alongside our dancers as they prepare for upcoming performances at the Wollondilly Performing Arts Festival and the Southern Stars Showcase.
The dedication, commitment and enthusiasm shown by both students and staff has been wonderful to see. These performances provide students with valuable opportunities to develop confidence, teamwork and performance skills while showcasing their talents to the wider community. I am very much looking forward to seeing our students take to the stage and represent Appin Public School with pride.
NSW Public Education Roadshow
Mrs Martin and I recently had the privilege of attending the NSW Public Education Roadshow, where we heard from the Secretary of the NSW Department of Education, Murat Dizdar, and other senior leaders about the future direction of public education in New South Wales.
The day provided valuable insights into the NSW Public Education Plan and the Department's ongoing commitment to ensuring every student is known, valued and cared for, while continuing to strengthen student learning, wellbeing and engagement. It was encouraging to hear about the significant work being undertaken across the state to support schools, students and communities, and to reinforce the vital role that public education plays in providing opportunities for all young people.
The Roadshow also provided an opportunity to connect with colleagues from across the region, share ideas and reflect on current initiatives and future directions for our school. We look forward to continuing to implement high-quality educational practices at Appin Public School and using these insights to further support our students, staff and community.
Celebrating Years 3–6
This edition of our newsletter proudly celebrates the achievements, growth and successes of our Years 3–6 students. Throughout the term, our senior students have embraced leadership opportunities, challenged themselves academically, represented our school in sport and the creative arts, and demonstrated the values that make Appin Public School such a special place.
As you read through this newsletter, I hope you enjoy sharing in the many accomplishments of our students and gaining an insight into the rich learning experiences that continue to shape and inspire them each day.
Mrs Collins - Appin PS Principal.
The Department of Education Roadshow - Murat Dizdar
Isabella - Flying Fox Class
Alessio, Reggie & Emilia - Flying Fox Class
The Hon. Prue Car
It has been an exciting and productive term across Years 3–6, with students and staff engaging in a range of initiatives designed to extend learning, provide targeted support and strengthen teaching practice.
One of the highlights this term has been the introduction of our Inspire Mathematics Extension Program, which brings together high-potential mathematicians from Years 3–6 each Thursday. Through rich, open-ended tasks, students are challenged to think critically, justify their reasoning and explore mathematical concepts beyond their year level. Using a range of concrete materials and collaborative problem-solving approaches, students investigate concepts such as patterns, variables and algebraic thinking, building strong foundations for future mathematical learning.
Alongside extension opportunities, targeted intervention groups have continued to support students requiring additional assistance in Number and Place Value. These small-group learning experiences have focused on strengthening foundational understanding, developing confidence and ensuring students have the skills needed to access increasingly complex mathematical concepts.
A significant focus this term has also been our ongoing collaboration with teachers across Years 3–6. Through professional learning, co-teaching and collaborative data analysis, staff have worked together to strengthen the teaching of multiplicative reasoning. This collective approach has resulted in encouraging improvements in student achievement data and has helped teachers further refine their classroom practices to meet the needs of all learners.
This term, Appin Public School was also proud to host the ROAST Network, welcoming Assistant Principals Curriculum and Instructions from schools across our local area. Visiting educators had the opportunity to observe our Aboriginal Education initiatives, led by our Lead Teachers Jacob Hennessy and Jada Papa. Together, network members explored effective practices that support Aboriginal students and engaged in professional dialogue focused on improving literacy and numeracy outcomes and continuing our collective commitment to closing the achievement gap.
We are incredibly proud of the growth, engagement and achievement demonstrated by our students this term and thank our dedicated staff for their ongoing commitment to providing high-quality learning opportunities for every child. As we move into next term, we look forward to building on these successes and continuing to inspire excellence across Years 3–6.
Inspire Mathematics Extension Program
Teacher Professional Learning
Flying Fox Class has been actively exploring Antarctica through a variety of engaging and creative learning experiences. Students have enjoyed producing artwork inspired by the continent’s breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife, while also strengthening their informative writing skills by researching and creating factual texts about Antarctica.
In Mathematics, students have been developing their understanding of grid maps by locating and describing positions using coordinates. They have also been learning about chance and probability by identifying and discussing the likelihood of different everyday events, helping them build important mathematical reasoning skills.
Students have also been participating in Peer Support sessions, where they have worked collaboratively with older students to develop positive relationships, teamwork skills, resilience, and a sense of belonging within the school community. These sessions have provided valuable opportunities for students to build confidence, communicate effectively, and support one another in a positive learning environment.
It has been wonderful to see students demonstrating curiosity, creativity, and a positive attitude towards their learning across all curriculum areas.
Students have also had opportunities to participate in a range of High Potential and Gifted Education activities, including the Operation Art competition, the Multicultural Perspectives Public Speaking Competition, and the Premier’s Spelling Bee. These experiences have allowed students to challenge themselves and showcase their talents beyond the classroom.
We would also like to acknowledge the following students for their outstanding representation of Flying Fox Class across a range of events. Alessio, Connor, Zayn and Hayden proudly represented the class at the Zone Cross Country event. Wyatt and Ruby participated in an enrichment day at Ambarvale High School, engaging in extension learning opportunities with students from across the region. William, Theodore and Alessio showcased their mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills to Principals from the Macarthur area as part of a High Potential showcase.
In Public Speaking, William and Isabella represented Flying Fox Class with confidence and skill. In the Premier’s Spelling Bee, Samuel and William represented the class, with William achieving outstanding success by winning Stage 2 and earning the opportunity to represent Appin at the next level.
Wallaby Class has had a wonderful term and should be proud of the growth and progress they have made so far.
In English, students have enthusiastically explored Antarctica through a range of engaging learning experiences, including creating artwork inspired by the continent’s unique landscapes and wildlife. They have been working hard to research and write informative texts about Antarctica, learning about the language and structural features that make an effective informative text. Students have been using adjectives, declarative sentences, adverbial phrases and Tier 2 and Tier 3 vocabulary to create engaging and informative pieces of writing that capture the reader’s interest while presenting factual information.
In Mathematics, students have been learning about multiplication and division and exploring the important relationship between these operations. They have developed their understanding of halving and doubling strategies and used these skills to solve mathematical problems efficiently. Students have also been learning about grid maps and coordinates to locate and describe positions, as well as investigating chance by identifying and discussing possible outcomes of everyday events. It has been wonderful to see students demonstrating curiosity, creativity and positive learning habits across all areas of the curriculum.
Beyond the classroom, students have been given valuable opportunities to extend their learning through participation in the Operation Art Competition, the Multicultural Perspectives Public Speaking Competition, and the Premier’s Spelling Bee. I would like to acknowledge Charli and Zachary, who both reached the finals of the Public Speaking Competition and did an amazing job. Theodore and Edison also achieved outstanding success, making it to the finals of the Spelling Bee. In addition, Mila, Charli, and Miles represented our school at the regional Cross Country, with a special congratulations to Mila for placing fourth and progressing through to the state level.
We have also welcomed our pre-service teacher, Miss Williams, who has been working with Wallaby Class and will be with us for a further three weeks.
I am extremely proud of Wallaby class and all they have accomplished this term. Students have consistently shown effort, kindness, enthusiasm and pride in their learning and achievements, and I look forward to seeing their confidence, growth and success continue throughout the rest of the year.
Dingo Class has had a successful start to Term 2. In English, we have been learning about Antarctica and, more specifically, the animals that live there. Students have been exploring informative texts and developing their ability to write engaging pieces that both entertain and inform the reader. We have also been learning how authors use literary devices such as similes, onomatopoeia, and descriptive language to make their writing more interesting and effective.
In Mathematics, we have been working on a range of concepts. Students have been using arrays to consolidate their understanding of multiplication and times tables, while also developing their knowledge of grid coordinates through engaging and modified games of Battleship. These hands-on activities have helped students build confidence and problem-solving skills in a fun and interactive way.
In Phonics, we have been focusing on suffixes and how they can change the meaning of words. Students have also been learning and applying the spelling rules associated with adding suffixes to different base words.
Dingo Class has had a fantastic term so far, and we are looking forward to the many exciting learning opportunities and experiences still to come this year.
Echidna class has been enthusiastically learning about Antarctica through a range of engaging activities. Students have been creating artwork inspired by the unique landscapes and wildlife of this icy continent while also developing their informative writing skills by researching and writing factual texts about Antarctica. In Mathematics, students have been exploring grid maps and using coordinates to locate and describe positions. They have also been investigating chance by identifying and discussing possible outcomes of everyday events, helping them build an understanding of probability. It has been wonderful to see students demonstrating curiosity, creativity, and strong learning habits across all areas of the curriculum.
Students have been able to engage in activities that promote High Potential and Gifted education through participation in the Operation Art competition, the Multicultural Perspectives public speaking competition and the Premier’s Spelling Bee. Next week we look forward to welcoming two pre-service teachers to our class, Miss Marks and Miss Fisher. They will be with us for two weeks and join us at our Sydney Zoo excursion. Save the date for Friday Week 10 as we wow the audience with an item at the assembly.
5/6 Kangaroo have had a fantastic term and should be proud of the effort and improvement they have shown across all areas of school life.
In English, students have been developing their skills in writing hybrid texts that both inform and entertain their readers. They have also been studying the novel Azaria: A True History and have thoroughly enjoyed learning about significant events that have shaped Australian history and influenced the way we live today.
In Mathematics, students have been strengthening their understanding of multiplication and division while also exploring 3D space concepts, including volume, capacity and displacement.
Beyond the classroom, many students have proudly represented Appin Public School at gala days, cross country and a range of other sporting events, demonstrating excellent sportsmanship and school pride.
A highlight of the term was our Week 7 assembly item for National Reconciliation Week. Students confidently shared their original poems and performed The Children Came Back by Briggs, showcasing their learning and helping to celebrate First Nations histories, cultures and achievements.
We are incredibly proud of 5/6 Kangaroo and look forward to another successful term ahead.
Wombat has had an incredible couple of months of learning, leadership and achievement. In Maths, students have been working hard across Multiplication and Division, Chance and 3D Objects. A major focus has been on solving more complex problems collaboratively, explaining strategies clearly and justifying mathematical thinking with evidence.
In English, we have been exploring hybrid texts that combine informative and persuasive writing. Through our unit on theme, students have used Azaria as a mentor text and have investigated the infamous Australian case, with a particular focus on the role of the media and its wider impact. This has led to some thoughtful, mature and respectful class discussions.
In PDH, Wombat has been learning about respectful relationships, personal safety, identity, health and wellbeing. It has been pleasing to see students connect these lessons to how they treat others and how they contribute positively to our school community.
Sport has also been a major highlight. Congratulations to all Wombat students who represented Appin at the Zone Cross Country Championships and helped our school win for the 10th straight year. A special mention goes to Koby, who finished 2nd in his age group and competed at Regionals on Wednesday. Congratulations also to Harper, who travelled to Bathurst to represent Sydney Southwest at NSW PSSA Hockey. Wombat students have also represented Appin with determination and sportsmanship across rugby league, soccer and netball gala days.
Beyond the classroom, our students continue to make a positive difference around the school. Halen has started a book club and Imogen M has been spending her break times supporting Kindergarten students in the library, helping others feel valued and included. Many Wombat students have also been involved in Garden Club, Eco Committee, debating, public speaking, guitar club and many other extracurricular opportunities.
We have also taken time to commemorate Sorry Day and ANZAC Day. It was wonderful to see Imogen H carry out her ministerial duties and represent Appin PS at our local ANZAC Day ceremony. Speaking of Imogen, we would love to acknowledge Immy and Sonny, who represented Wombat in the Public Speaking Finals. Imogen will now progress to the regional final in Week 10 at Picton Public School.
Another special mention also goes to Eden and Isaac, who represented Wombat with pride in the School Spelling Bee Finals. Both students showed impressive focus, confidence and determination as they tackled a range of challenging words earlier this week. A special congratulations goes to Eden, who won the Stage Final and will now represent Appin PS at the Regional Spelling Bee Final. We wish Eden the very best of luck and know she will represent our school beautifully.
Finally, a huge congratulations to Sonny, Isaac, Jake and Wyatt, who recently completed their Sphero STEM Challenge and finished an outstanding 12th in the entire world. This is a remarkable achievement and one the whole school is very proud of.
Wombat has had a brilliant term so far. The students have shown effort, kindness, teamwork and pride in everything they do. We will be holding a class party soon to celebrate their many achievements and the positive way they continue to represent our class and school.
Term 2 has been busy and productive in 5/6 Gecko. Students have demonstrated enthusiasm and resilience across all learning areas. It has been wonderful to see students challenge themselves and celebrate their achievements this term.
In Mathematics, students have continued to develop their understanding of number and problem-solving skills. A particular focus has been on applying efficient mathematical strategies to solve increasingly complex problems. Students have also been working towards individualised learning goals, with many showing significant growth achieving their goals and earning rewards for their efforts and persistence.
In English, students have explored a variety of hybrid texts while developing comprehension, vocabulary and writing skills. It has been pleasing to see students take ownership of their learning and make progress towards achieving their goals.
Some highlights from this term include students performing at assembly that showcase their understanding of physical activity and brain chemicals. They also demonstrated creativity while completing artworks for the Operation Art competition. As Peer Support leaders, Stage 3 students have developed their leadership skills while educating younger students about bullying prevention and being an upstander. I am incredibly proud of the effort and teamwork students have demonstrated throughout the term.
Cultural Group
This week, Appin Public School had the priviledge of hosting the R.O.A.S.T Network. As part of the event, the Years 3-6 Cultural Group students proudly showcased their learning to special guests from Rosemeadow Public School, Mrs Delaney and Mrs Stringer. Students shared their workbooks, played Dharawal Language edition Memory and participated in a range of sporting activities, providing visitors with an insight into the rich cultural learning taking place at Appin Public School.
Over the past few weeks, K-2 Cultural Group students have been learning the popular Torres Strait Islander Dance Taba Naba in preperation for NAIDOC celebrations. The students have been working hard to develop their skills and confidence, ensuring they are ready to perform on NAIDOC Day.
All Cultural Group students are continuing to work towards and achieve their Term 2 academic goals outlined in their Personalised Learning Plan (PLPs). Students are preparing for upcoming parent, student and teacher conversations, where they will have the opportunity to reflect on their progress and celebrate their achievements. These discussions will help inform the development of updated PLPs in Term 3, ensuring goals remain meaningful and responsive to each student's learning journey.
Archie and Levi
Brydee and Koa
Zoe and Kowhai
Hunter, Mrs Delaney and George
🏅Standout Sporting Superstars
This term has been filled with incredible sporting achievements, with many students demonstrating outstanding skill, determination and sportsmanship.
Earlier this term, Austin and Harper proudly represented our region at the State Hockey Carnival in Bathurst. They were excellent ambassadors for Appin Public School and should be commended for their dedication and effort.
This week, 13 Appin Public School students competed at the Regional Cross Country Carnival, showcasing resilience, perseverance and a love of sport. A special congratulations goes to Mila, Indigo and Karim, who have qualified for the State Cross Country Championships next term. This is a fantastic achievement and a testament to their hard work and commitment.
We are immensely proud of all students who have represented our school throughout the term. Their enthusiasm, determination and positive attitude continue to inspire our school community. We wish our state representatives every success and look forward to celebrating their achievements next term.
Austin and Harper
Harper
Austin
PBL VIP Award 👑
Our 3-6 students continue to set a wonderful example to all by following our school values of being Safe, Respectful, Learners. It has been fantastic to see so many of our senior students step up in the playground and support our young learners in a variety of ways. We would like to take this opportunity to give a shout out to our 3-6 PBL VIPs for 2026 so far.
Term 1: Koby (Gecko class)
Term 2: Holly (Wombat class) & Amelie (Wombat class)
These students were nominated by staff across the school and are truly deserving of this prestigious award. They consistently demonstrate our school values through their positive attitude, respectful behaviour and commitment to learning.
Attendance
Attendance across the school continues to be strong and consistent, with most roll classes achieving attendance rates in the 90–95% range. Several classes recorded particularly high attendance in the mid-90s, reflecting positive routines and strong engagement with learning.
These results reflect the ongoing partnership between families and staff in supporting students to attend school regularly, ensuring they are able to fully engage in learning opportunities and achieve their personal best.
Wallaby Class has achieved an outstanding milestone this term, recording the highest attendance across Years 3–6 with an impressive 95% attendance rate. This excellent result reflects the students’ strong commitment to their learning and the importance they place on being present and ready to learn each day. Consistent attendance plays a vital role in student success, and Wallaby Class should be very proud of this collective effort. Well done to all students for demonstrating such dedication and responsibility—keep up the fantastic work!
From the Office
Updating School
It is very important that we have up to date and correct contact details for our students. If you have a new home address, mobile phone number or email address, please contact our school office to update these details as soon as possible.
School Arrival
It is important for your child to arrive at school and class on time. Arriving on time:
• Ensures that students do not miss out on important learning activities
scheduled early in the day
• Helps students learn the importance of punctuality and routine
• Give students time to greet their friends before class
• Reduces classroom disruption
• Lateness is recorded as a partial absence and must be explained by
parents
Unexplained Absences
Please remember that the NSW Education Act requires that all student absences must be explained within 7 days of the first day of them being away from school. Please contact us promptly whenever your child is absent and let us know the reason for them being away.
A text message will be sent home each day the student has an unexplained absence. Parents have 7 days to reply on the parent portal or contact the school, otherwise unexplained absences become unjustified.
If you have any questions or if you need support with your child’s attendance, please contact the school on 46 311 220.
Canteen Online Ordering
Mel's Lunchbox provides lunch orders with Spriggy Schools Online Ordering App. If you have any questions, or suggestions, please contact Mel on Mb: 0456 815160.
Just a reminder that there is absolutely no parking or pedestrian access through our staff car park at any time. If dropping off or picking up from OOSH, please use the OOSH gate provided. Thank you.
Cooler Weather
With the weather getting cooler, please be sure to send a jacket with your child. PLEASE label all your child’s belongings including
jackets, jumpers, hats, and coats. Call in to the front office to check if your child’s belongings are in the lost and found tub. If they are
labelled, we can return items to their rightful owner. Thank you.
Thank you to the many NSW public schools that supported the 2026 Stewart House Envelope Raffle and congratulations to families from Narrabeen Lakes PS (MINI Countryman), Gunnedah South PS ($500 AmpolCash) and Melonba PS (XPENG Weekender), who took home this year's major prizes.
Together, schools have raised more than $125,000 to support children attending the Stewart House program. With more funds still being processed, we expect this total to continue to grow.
At approx. $2,500 per child per 12-day stay, these funds will support around 50 children to access life-changing care. Each stay includes healthcare, counselling, nutritious meals, recreational activities and a safe, caring environment for students who may be facing hardship, trauma, isolation or disadvantage.
A sincere thank you to our prize sponsor, Smart™, the Department's salary packaging provider, for generously sponsoring and arranging all three prizes this year.
NSW Public Education’s Charity of Choice
Thank you to everyone for dressing up in blue for Do It For Dolly Day on 2 June and donation of a gold coin. We successfully raised $324.00 on the day.
P & C Meeting
Our next P&C Meeting will be held on Tuesday, 4th August at 6:30pm in the School Staffroom. Everyone is welcome to come. Even if you are new to our school, or have never been before, please come along and see how the P & C contribute to our children. It is a great way to get involved in ways to help our school, meet new people and to be informed of things coming up. Hope to see you there! All welcome!
NB: P & C Meetings will take place in Week 3, and a change to Week 8 each term, on a Tuesday at 6:30pm in the School Staffroom.
P & C Uniform Shop
The Uniform Shop is open every Monday, from 8:30am to 9:30am. The Uniform Shop has Eftpos available for payments, as well as cash. Online order form at https://form.jotform/212808469354867 - or scan the QR Code.
Orders will be filled when the shop is open on Monday mornings and left at office for pickup, or given to child if paid by credit card. Full cash payment must accompany orders left at the office, or pay cash on pickup of online order. Prices subject to change, depending upon suppliers.
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