Oakleigh South Primary School
NEWSLETTER – ISSUE 10
4th April, 2025
“Not all classrooms have four walls.” — Margaret McMillan
IMPORTANT DATES
Issue 10 – 4th April 2025
Friday 4th April
– End of Term 1 – Early Dismissal (2:30PM)
– Prep–Year 2 Easter Hat Parade (9:00AM)
– Whole School Assembly – Hall (1:50PM)
Monday 21st April
– Easter Monday Public Holiday – No School
Tuesday 22nd April
– Start of Term 2
Thursday 24th April
– House Cross Country
Friday 25th April
– ANZAC Day Public Holiday – No School
Monday 28th April
– Curriculum Day – No School
Tuesday 29th April
– School Tour (9:30AM)
– Whole School Assembly (2:45PM)
PRINCIPAL’S REPORT
And just like that, Term 1 is over in the blink of an eye!
What a busy and exciting term it has been. Our Prep students have settled in beautifully, NAPLAN has been successfully administered, and many year levels have enjoyed excursions. The Year 1 and 2 students have completed their swimming program, Running Club is in full swing, and the Parent Group has organised some special days for our students. A big thank you to all staff and everyone involved in getting 2025 off to such a fantastic start.
This morning, we held our annual Easter Hat Parade on the junior running track. The track was filled with joyful faces from Prep, Year 1 and Year 2, proudly wearing their carefully crafted Easter hats. All of the children looked fantastic as they paraded around the track, class by class, showcasing their bright and colourful creations. Thank you to all the parents and grandparents who came along to support the children — it was a truly special event.
Preparations for the Autumn Family Fete are now well underway. Please keep an eye on your COMPASS notifications for updates and be sure to add your name to your class or year level’s helper board to volunteer for a timeslot at your child’s stall. Many hands make light work!
Over the holidays, we encourage all families to continue engaging with learning activities such as Mathletics, Reading Eggs, myON, and of course, regular reading. It’s important to keep these routines going while enjoying some well-earned rest and fun.
Our final whole-school assembly for the term was held this afternoon where the Easter Raffle winners were announced. A big thank you to all families who supported the raffle with generous donations.
We look forward to welcoming everyone back to school on Tuesday 22nd April. Please note, there will be no school on Friday 25th April, as it is a public holiday for ANZAC Day, making Week 1 a short week. In addition, Monday 28th April is a Curriculum Day, so there will be no school for students on that day either.
Wishing everyone a safe, relaxing, and joyful break!
Warm regards,
Nikki Virtuoso
Acting Principal
SCHOOL COUNCIL
WELCOME FROM THE SCHOOL COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Dear OSPS Community,
Firstly, I’d like to warmly welcome our new councillors — Natalie, Saurabh, Evan, Nicole and Shyamen — to the 2025 School Council. This year’s parent councillors bring a wonderfully diverse range of professional backgrounds, making for a strong and dynamic team. I would also like to sincerely thank our outgoing school councillors — Rajkumar, Jennie and Nelsie — for their valuable contributions to School Council.
It’s hard to believe we’ve already reached the end of Term 1, and the Easter holiday period is upon us. Preparations for the OSPS Autumn Family Fete, to be held on Saturday 10th May, are now well underway.
The OSPS Fete is not only a vital fundraiser for key school projects, but also a fantastic opportunity for the school community to come together, have fun, and connect socially.
We encourage all parents to volunteer their time where possible to help make this important and enjoyable event a great success.
Lastly, School Council extends our best wishes to Ron Cantlon for a speedy recovery and rehabilitation following his recent knee surgery. We are very fortunate to have the capable and committed Nikki Virtuoso stepping into the Acting Principal role during Ron’s absence, supported by OSPS’ dedicated leadership team.
We hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable Easter holiday.
Warm regards,
Andrew Power
President
OSPS School Council
SCHOOL MATTERS
WALK-A-THON FOR MONASH CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL SCHOOL
This Friday 4th April, South Oakleigh College is holding its annual Walk-A-Thon to raise funds for Monash Children’s Hospital School.
This amazing school helps young people continue their education while undergoing treatment — whether they’re in hospital or attending outpatient programs, from early years through to VCE.
Every step these students take supports others in staying connected to learning during tough times.
If you’d like to contribute, donations can be made here:
https://monashhealth.grassrootz.com/south-oakleigh-college-walk-a-thon-2025
Thank you for supporting this important cause!
THIS MONTH ON SCHOOLTV – CYBERSAFETY
Today’s young people are growing up in a highly connected world where technology plays a central role in learning, socialising, and entertainment. While the digital world offers incredible opportunities, it also brings a range of risks — including cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, online predators, and challenges around screen time.
Cybersafety goes beyond simply restricting access. It’s about equipping children and teens with the tools and understanding they need to use technology safely and responsibly. This means learning to navigate privacy settings, spot scams, and build healthy digital habits. Just as importantly, it requires parents and caregivers to stay informed, model positive online behaviour, and create open, judgement-free conversations around technology use.
In today’s digital age, supporting a child’s wellbeing must also include protecting their online world.
This edition of SchoolTV offers practical insights and strategies to help families better understand the digital landscape and support young people in staying safe, empowered, and in control online.
Access the latest edition here: https://oakleighsouthps.vic.schooltv.me/newsletter/cybersafety-au
THINKUKNOW INCURSION – YEAR 4–6
Our Year 4–6 students recently took part in the ThinkUKnow incursion, facilitated by Senior Constable Heath from Victoria Police.
The student presentation explored the technologies that children and young people commonly use, the challenges they may encounter, and, importantly, how these can be addressed. It focused on helping students develop critical thinking skills and recognise unsafe situations online.
Topics covered included privacy, inappropriate contact, help-seeking behaviours, and image sharing — all key areas in promoting safe and responsible online behaviour.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS AND SCHOOL RECORDS
As we approach the end of Term 1, Oakleigh South Primary School is updating all student medical records to ensure we can support the health, safety, and wellbeing of every child.
If your child has a diagnosed medical condition (e.g. asthma, allergies, ADHD, diabetes, nosebleeds, etc), or if their condition or care requirements have changed, please notify the school as soon as possible by contacting Isabella by email: isabella.vandeursen@education.vic.gov.au
We require the following, where applicable:
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A completed Medical Information Form
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A current Action Plan OR Medical Letter signed by a medical professional
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Any necessary medication, clearly labelled and in-date
Please note: In accordance with Department of Education policy, students cannot attend camps, excursions, or off-site activities without current medical documentation and action plans on file.
If your child has been medically cleared and no longer requires support for a previously reported condition, a signed medical letter must be provided so we can amend or remove their record.
We appreciate your prompt attention to this important matter.
VALUED STUDENT AWARDS
JUNIOR VALUED STUDENT AWARDS
YEAR 1 VALUED STUDENT AWARDS
Eunice – 1AN
(Excellence)
For always having a go at completing set work and being such a great friend within 1AN. Awesome job!
Vasili – 1AN
(Respect)
For showing respect to everyone within 1AN and for always having a go! Great work, Vasili!
Vasistha – 1NM
(Excellence)
For working hard to improve his handwriting and always putting in effort in Maths.
Cressida – 1NM
(Excellence)
For always concentrating in class and doing her best in Yellow Box! Superb work!
Finley – 1LC
(Excellence)
For doing an amazing job in Maths and always helping others who are in need! Superb work, Finley!
Kyra – 1LC
(Respect)
For displaying all of our classroom rules and being a very helpful member of our class. Go Kyra!
Liam – 1NC
(Excellence)
For demonstrating a strong work ethic and producing some very impressive work!
Viaan – 1NC
(Respect)
For treating teachers, peers, and school staff with kindness and consideration. You are a delight!
Ava – 1JG
(Working Together)
For jumping at any opportunity to give her classmates and teachers a helping hand. You’re a gem, Ava!
Lucas – 1JG
(Resilience)
For being a cool, calm and collected learner who puts loads of effort into all of his tasks. Go Lucas!
YEAR 5 VALUED STUDENT AWARDS
Taj – 2VO
(Excellence)
For writing great recounts in his journal! Well done, Taj – keep up the awesome effort!
Poppy – 2VO
(Resilience)
For always trying her best and showing great resilience when completing tricky tasks!
Venus – 2TM
(Excellence)
For including a range of different punctuation and WOW words in her writing. You are a star, Venus!
Harriet – 2TM
(Excellence)
For putting in so much effort into her learning outside of school, including her recent holiday!
Chris – 2AB
(Excellence)
For working extremely hard on his information report displaying details all about the T-Rex.
Zoey – 2AB
(Working Together)
For being a fantastic classroom role model of the 5Ls of Listening.
Ayushmaan – 2RV
(Integrity)
For being a ‘bucket filler’ to everyone in 2RV and brightening our day! You’re amazing!
Samantha – 2RV
(Excellence)
For constantly demonstrating excellent classroom behaviour and always trying her best! Well done!
Myra – 2AP
(Excellence)
For working hard to include more WOW words in her writing and always trying her best.
Felix – 2AP
(Resilience)
For the fantastic way he begins each day. Keep up the great work, Felix!
Meera – 2ML
(Excellence)
For consistently being an honest, responsible, and reliable peer who can always be counted on!
Saanvi – 2ML
(Respect)
For always treating everyone with kindness and attentively listening to others!
Katerina – 2GL
(Excellence)
For amazing writing this term. Your recounts have truly impressed us! Well done!
Aiden – 2GL
(Excellence)
For his excellent listening on the mat. Aiden is always keen and eager to learn. Well done!
YEAR 6 VALUED STUDENT AWARDS
Nathan – 3FT
(Excellence)
For consistently completing his work to a high standard. Keep shining, Nathan!
Dylan – 3FT
(Resilience)
For continuously trying his best even when he finds a task difficult. Keep it up, Dylan!
Alisha – 3MW
(Working Together)
For being a great class member who always tries her best.
Hunter – 3MW
(Integrity)
For producing excellent results and having a great work ethic.
Alexandra – 3WC
(Excellence)
For always completing her work to the best of her abilities!
Vaishu – 3WC
(Working Together)
For consistently showing the school values and helping her classmates!
Kevin – 3NM
(Respect)
For always working hard with excellent manners. You’re a delight to have in class. Well done!
Bony – 3NM
(Excellence)
For always listening to instructions, staying focused and putting in 100% effort in all you do!
Saahitya – 3NM
(Working Together)
For always being thoughtful of others, helping out when needed with a smile and positive attitude!
JUNIOR SPECIALIST AWARDS
Eleni – 1AN
Japanese
(Excellence)
For always showing an enthusiastic learning attitude in Japanese. Keep up the amazing work!
Luca – 1AN
Visual Arts
(Working Together)
For working well in the Art room!
Cressida – 1NM
Performing Arts
(Excellence)
For always participating with enthusiasm in Performing Arts classes.
Mahalakshmi – 1NM
Performing Arts
(Respect)
For always being a respectful and enthusiastic participant in Performing Arts classes.
George – 2TM
Japanese
(Excellence)
For always trying your best, showing excellent focus and never giving up in Japanese. Well done!
2SR
STEM (Science)
(Working Together)
For working respectfully during Science lessons. Well done!
Ayushmaan – 2RV
Visual Arts
(Integrity)
For being a wonderful and helpful student in the Art room!
Aziz – 3NH
Visual Arts
(Working Together)
For being a conscientious worker in the Art room!
Catrina – 3WC
Performing Arts
(Resilience)
For showing resilience and persistence whilst learning the recorder in Performing Arts classes.
THE RESILIENCE PROJECT
GEM CHATS
GEM Chats are daily conversation starters provided by TRP that encourage reflection on the GEM values: being grateful, empathetic, and mindful. We encourage parents to ask their child the prompt and engage in a discussion about these values. By making GEM Chats a part of your routine, you can help reinforce these positive habits and support your child’s ongoing wellbeing and emotional literacy.
STUDENT SHOWCASE
YEAR 3 VILLAGE LEARNING
This term, alongside NAPLAN assessments, the Year 3s have been learning all about raising chickens, becoming Environmental Warriors, and taking care of our Village. Students have been actively involved in picking up rubbish, planting fruits and vegetables, and caring for our ducks and chickens as part of our daily lunchtime farming program. It’s been a fun and hands-on way to learn about sustainability and responsibility.
YEAR 3 CHESTERFIELD FARM VISIT
Last week, to celebrate our Village learning, Year 3 students enjoyed an exciting day out at Chesterfield Farm. Throughout the day, we took part in a range of farm activities including milking a cow, riding the tractor, feeding animals, patting baby animals in the nursery, and watching the Sheep Dog and Cow Milking shows.
We also explored the Discovery Centre to learn about the farm’s history and saw a wide range of animals including deer, kangaroos, camels, cows, pigs, horses, and emus. It was a terrific day out — and the highlight for many was taking home our very own bottle of fresh farm milk!
LITERACY CORNER
During our Group Writing lessons, our Year 3 students have been learning how to write persuasive texts with the goal of convincing their readers to share their opinions. Through engaging discussions and structured planning, they’ve explored how to express their ideas clearly, use persuasive language, and back up their opinions with strong arguments.
As part of this unit, students have written about a range of fun and meaningful topics – including some fabulous pieces inspired by the upcoming OSPS Fete!
We are incredibly proud of the progress they’ve made and the creativity they’ve shown!
Come to the amazing OSPS Fete! It will be so much fun! You will make very good memories, you can get raffle tickets to win prizes, and you can eat delicious food! Keep reading and I will convince you to come to the OSPS Fete!
To begin with, you can make the best memories you have ever made in your entire life. For example, I went on the Hurricane last year and it was so much fun, that I will remember it when I am 100 years old! So come to our Fete!
Secondly, come to the OSPS Fete so you can get raffle tickets to win prizes. You might even win a big prize with lollypops, and everyone loves lollypops. You don’t want to miss out on that!
Finally, come to the OSPS Fete to eat delicious food, such as souvlaki, donuts, cakes and cotton candy. That’s why you should come to the fete!
So, it is clear that you should go to the OSPS Fete. Go and book the date on your calendar now!!!
“Mum, Mum! Can we go to the Fete?” I asked politely. “Sure”, mum said. I’m going to the Fete and you need to come too! I am here to convince you to come along with my three undefeatable reasons… 1. There’s rides and games, 2. There’s yummy food and 3. It’s suitable for all ages.
Firstly, there are incredible rides and games, for example, the snake coaster is so much fun!
Secondly, there is yummy food that won’t make you throw up on the rides. For example, last year I had popcorn straight after I went on the Sizzler and I didn’t throw up!
Thirdly, it is suitable for all ages, for example last year my cousin, who is only one, went on the Super Slide with an adult, and he had the best time of his life!
In conclusion, I am certain I have convinced you with my three undefeatable reasons. I will see YOU at the fete!
Would you like to come to our OSPS Fete? Well, I certainly would! There are amazing rides, lots of delicious food, and many entertaining stalls. Come along on the 10th May! So now, I am going to persuade you with my three fabulous reasons.
To start off with, there are many entertaining rides you can go on and they are all completely safe, such as the bouncy castle. So that is my first reason why you should go to the fete.
Next, there’s scrumptious food to eat. For example, there is cotton candy, hot dogs, souvlaki, and beef tacos. It’s delicious and it doesn’t cost a lot! That is my second reason.
To end off with, come to our fete, to visit all the stalls, for example, you could go to the face paint area because it’s really fun! That’s my last reason you should go to the OSPS Fete!
Now, I’m sure I’ve convinced you with my three awesome reasons! So go to our school website and buy some tickets today!
YEAR 3 GEM
G – We are GRATEFUL for our teachers and our school community – Karmel, 3FT
E – We have EMPATHY for our friends and teachers – Sofia, 3FT
M – We are MINDFUL of our Earth by not littering our rubbish and bringing in containers – Rishon, 3FT
PARENT GROUP
PARENT GROUP AGM
The Parent Group held their Annual General Meeting on Tuesday 1st April, and are pleased to announce the appointment of the following parents to the available positions:
President: Nicole Stenton
Vice President: Jasmine Efthymiou
Secretary: Nelsie Fernandes
Treasurer: Koby Lacy
We wish our newly appointed members all the best in their roles and would like to thank Nigel Hooley for chairing the meeting.
If you would like to join the Parent Group or volunteer at events when available, please feel free to get in touch via osparentgroup67@gmail.com.
LUNCH ORDER PROVIDERS
We are pleased to confirm the following lunch order options for our school community in 2025: TK Tuckshop and Classroom Cuisine will be available on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, while Subway will be available on Tuesday and Thursday.
Classroom Cuisine: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Register and order at www.classroomcuisine.com.au
All orders must be placed by 8:30am the morning of delivery.
TK Tuckshop: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Register at https://app.spriggyschools.com.au/login
Download the Spriggy Schools app from your app store.
All orders need to be placed by 7pm for the full menu or 8:00am the morning of delivery for a restricted menu.
Subway: Tuesday and Thursday
Register and place your order at https://app.canteenhub.com.au
All orders need to be placed by 8.00am the day of delivery.
PARENT CORNER
SECONDARY SCHOOL & TRANSITION INFO
YEAR 6 TO YEAR 7: SECONDARY SCHOOL TRANSITION
All Year 6 students in Victoria must complete a Year 7 placement form to enrol in a government secondary school for 2026. This process is managed by the Department of Education.
Families will receive the Application for Year 7 Placement form early in Term 2, which must be completed and returned by Friday 9 May 2025.
You can list up to three government secondary schools in order of preference, including your local zoned school. If you plan to send your child to a Catholic or independent (private) school, you will need to apply directly to that school through their own enrolment process.
STATEWIDE GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS TIMELINE – YEAR 7 IN 2026
• Early Term 2 – Placement forms sent home
• Friday 9 May – Forms due back to school
• Tuesday 1 July – Placement offers sent to families
• Tuesday 9 December – Year 6 Orientation Day at government secondary schools
Please see these links for more information:
🔗 findmyschool.vic.gov.au
🔗 vic.gov.au/moving-primary-secondary-school-information-parents-and-carers
If you have any questions, please contact your child’s classroom teacher or our Enrolments Officer at enrolments@oakleighsouthps.vic.edu.au
OSPS FETE SPONSORS
COMMUNITY NEWS
Disclaimer: The organisations advertised in this newsletter are not affiliated with and have no relationship to Oakleigh South Primary School. The publishing of these advertisements does not imply endorsement or recommendation of these products or services by the school. They are provided as a community service.
