There is much to be excited at Heathdale about!
Reconciliation Week
During Reconciliation Week, our students took time to reflect on the rich history, cultures, and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Through classroom discussions, activities and moments of reflection, students explored the importance of respect, understanding and reconciliation within our community.
As part of this week, students also demonstrated remarkable compassion and generosity by selling wristbands in support of the Opening the Doors Foundation (OTDF). OTDF support First Nations children and families to access and complete quality education in Victorian non-government schools from Prep to Year 12, helping enable self-determined educational choices and reduce inequality. The wristbands sold out in two days!
New Synthetic Turf Opens
There was great excitement across the Primary School this week as students enjoyed their first opportunity to use our new synthetic turf facility. The space has already become a popular addition to the playground, providing students with another safe and engaging area for active play and connection with friends.
What has been particularly pleasing has been the way students have embraced the new space. They have demonstrated excellent care for the facility, followed expectations and shown consideration for others while enjoying this wonderful new addition to our campus.
A Busy and Exciting Time
The past fortnight has been full of memorable experiences for our students. The Years 3–6 Spelling Bee provided plenty of excitement, with students bravely tackling some very challenging words. The competition was so difficult that even some of the staff, including Mr Haworth, discovered that spelling is not always as easy as it seems!
Our youngest Kindergarten learners also enjoyed participating in the ‘Ready, Steady, Go’ sports program, which provided valuable opportunities to develop friendships, confidence and understanding through shared experiences. In addition, students benefited from hearing from Big Kids Table, who engaged them in important conversations about wellbeing, relationships and navigating the challenges young people face today.
I encourage all parents and guardians to take a moment to look at the wonderful work displayed around the college. There are some fantastic art pieces Mrs Esterhuizen has put up on windows. Pause and take a look at your children’s talents!
These experiences remind us that learning extends far beyond the classroom and plays an important role in helping students grow academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually. Praise God for all the wonderful extra activities that make up school life.