Oakleigh South Primary School
NEWSLETTER – ISSUE 30
19th September, 2025

 “Even if you’re little you can do a lot, you mustn’t let a little thing like ‘little’ stop you.” — Matilda Wormwood

IMPORTANT DATES

Issue 30 – 19th September 2025

TERM FOUR

WEEK 1

Mon 6th Oct
• Start Term 4
Tue 07 Oct
• Austraian Girls Choir Visit – 10:30AM in the Hall
Thu 09 Oct
• RoboCup National Camp, Canberra
• Senior Choir – 3:45 PM in the Hall
Fri 10 Oct
• RoboCup National Camp, Canberra

WEEK 2

Tue 14 Oct
• Matsuri Japanese Dress-Up Day
• Whole School Assembly – 2:45 PM in the Hall
Thu 16th Oct
• Senior Choir – 3:45 PM in the Hall
Fri 17 Oct
• Prep Transition (Group A) – 1:30PM
• Twilight Picnic – from 5PM on the Oval

WEEK 3

Mon 20 Oct
• Adam Wallace Author Presentations – Yr 4-6
Tue 21 Oct
• Peter Combe Junior Music Incursion
• Senior School Assembly – 2:45 PM in the Hall
Wed 22 Oct 
• Year 5 Camp Peninsula Outdoors (Day 1/3)
• Region Athletics Competition
Thu 23 Oct 
• Year 5 Camp Peninsula Outdoors (Day 2/3)
• Senior Choir – 3:45 PM in the Hall
Fri 24 Oct 
• Year 5 Camp Peninsula Outdoors (Day 3/3)
• Year 1 & 2 Pizza Day
• Prep Transition (Group B) – 1:30PM

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

As we come to the end of another exciting and productive term, I want to take a moment to reflect on another big week at OSPS.

Firstly a huge congratulations to our amazing Year 6 students for their outstanding performances in Matilda Jr. this week. Across four spectacular nights, our students brought the staff to life with their talent, energy and dedication. Every single student should be incredibly proud of what they’ve achieved. A heartfelt thank you to the staff and parent helpers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes – your support, creativity and commitment made it all possible. We truly couldn’t do it without you. 

Our Year 4 students had a fantastic day at Healesville Sanctuary on Monday, learning about Australian Wildlife and enjoying time in nature. It was a great way to connect classroom learning with the real world.

On Tuesday, our Year 2 students enjoyed a special afternoon where they proudly showcased their Design Thinking unit ‘Kevin the Koala’ to their families. It was wonderful to see the enthusiasm and confidence with which they shared their learning.

Meanwhile, our Year 1 students impressed their parents on Thursday with their creative and innovative arcade games, designed as part of their Design Thinking unit. They had so much fun explaining their ideas and proudly demonstrated their game to their parents.

As we wrap up Term 3, I want to thank our whole school community – students, staff and families – for another great term where our motto of ‘Together We Achieve’ was so evident. 

Enjoy a well-deserved break, stay safe, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back on Monday the 6th October for what promises to be a big and exciting final term of 2025.

Have a great holiday break everyone. 

 

Warm regards,

Nikki Virtuoso
Acting Principal

SCHOOL MATTERS

YEAR 6 PRODUCTION – MATILDA

Congratulations to our incredible Year 6 students on their outstanding production of Matilda Jr this week! After months of rehearsals, set building, costume making, and countless hours of dedication, the students lit up the stage with four sensational performances.

Each show was filled with energy, talent, and teamwork, showcasing not only the students’ acting, singing, and dancing but also their commitment to working together as a cast and crew. The pride and joy from our school community was clear as audiences were captivated from start to finish.

A heartfelt thank you goes to the teachers, parents, and volunteers who supported the production behind the scenes – your creativity and hard work made this year’s show a truly memorable success!

NEW SAFER SPEEDS ON CENTRE ROAD

Dear Oakleigh South Primary School Community,

The Department of Transport & Planning has advised that a new 40km/h school speed zone will apply on Centre Road between Cameron Avenue and Melaleuca Drive.

The new limit will begin from 2:30pm tomorrow, Thursday 18 September and apply on school days during:

  • 8:00am – 9:30am (drop-off)

  • 2:30pm – 4:00pm (pick-up)

The afternoon times will operate from tomorrow, with the morning times starting from Friday 19 September. At all other times, the speed limit remains 60km/h. From the beginning of Term 4, these restrictions will be in place every school day.

This long-awaited change follows years of petitioning by OSPS, our families, and the community. It will make Centre Road safer for our students, families and all road users.

Please take note of the new speed zone and drive safely to protect our school community.

For more information, visit the Transport Victoria project page.

OSPS FOOTY DAY

OSPS Footy Day 2025 was a huge success, with students, staff, and families coming together to celebrate in their team colours. The day was filled with energy, cheering, and plenty of footy fun!

The junior and senior parades were once again a favourite, featuring the exciting wheelie bin kicking competition. A standout moment was 6SM setting a new coin line record of 34.2 metres in support of the Children’s Tumour Foundation – an incredible achievement that had the whole school buzzing.

The much-loved Staff vs Year 6 Students footy match at snack time brought plenty of laughs and cheers, with the students coming out on top in a thrilling game.

Our Parent Group hosted another much-loved Hot Dog Day to coincide with Footy Colours Day. Thanks to their hard work and the support of our community, it was a delicious and memorable part of the day.

Thank you to all staff, families, and parent volunteers who helped make the day so enjoyable. OSPS Footy Day continues to be a highlight of the school year!

AUTHOR VISIT – ADAM WALLACE

Dear Students, Parents, Teachers and Puppies,

We’re excited to announce that bestselling author and illustrator Adam Wallace is coming back to Oakleigh South PS on Monday 20th October!

Adam loved his 2024 visit so much that he’s chosen OSPS as one of only 15 schools in Australia where he’s launching his brand-new book, Hatman!

This is a special opportunity because Hatman won’t even be available in bookstores. During his visit, Adam will:

  • Share Hatman and the story behind it

  • Guide students in creating their own stories

  • Do a live drawing session with the kids

You can also order signed copies of Hatman, delivered to school, and for every copy you order, you’ll receive another one of Adam’s books for free!

To order, simply scan the QR code on the flyer or visit www.hatman.com.au/octlaunch before Monday 20th October.

Don’t miss out on this exciting event!

REMINDER FOR PREP ENROLMENTS

Dear Parents and Carers with Current Students,

If you have a child who is a sibling of a current student due to start Prep in 2026 and have not yet submitted an enrolment application, we urgently require you to do so as enrolments are now OVERDUE.

If you know of any families with siblings who have not yet enrolled, please encourage them to complete their application immediately.

To begin the online enrolment process:

  1. Visit: https://students.educationapps.vic.gov.au/s/
  2. Create an account and complete the online application form.
  3. Upload all required supporting documents.

Please ensure the following documents are uploaded to the portal:

  • Your child’s Birth Certificate
  • Immunisation History Statement from Medicare
  • 100 Points of Proof of Residence (View full checklist here)

⚠️ Please note: Applications cannot be progressed if any documents are missing.

Sibling enrolments must be submitted as soon as possible to secure placement.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

AUSTRALIAN GIRLS CHOIR – FREE WORKSHOP

The Australian Girls Choir will be visiting OSPS on Tuesday 7th October at 10.30am to run a free 30-minute assessment workshop for interested girls.

This workshop gives girls the opportunity to take part in singing, movement and performance activities in a fun and supportive environment. No preparation is required, and the session is open to girls of all year levels, abilities and experience.

Following the workshop, parents of participating girls will receive a personalised assessment report and information about AGC’s 2026 class programs.

Flyers with full details will be sent home via classroom teachers, and bookings for girls can be made via the QR code on the flyer.

For over 40 years, AGC has inspired thousands of girls to build confidence, musicality and presentation skills through world-class performing arts education and unparalleled performance opportunities.

JAPANESE DRESS UP DAY

Japanese Dress-Up Day will be held on Tuesday 14th October (Term 4, Week 2). Students are encouraged to dress as their favourite anime character, ninja, samurai, or video game character like Mario. We aim to make this a fun and memorable celebration for everyone.

The Best Costume Prize will be awarded to one student from each grade, so let your creativity shine!

Additionally, we’re running a colouring competition this term, with winners to be announced at a special assembly on Dress-Up Day.

HALLOWEEN SCAVENGER FUNDRAISER – WITH A TWIST

Calling all local kids, teens and families! Add Oakleigh South Netball Club’s Trick ‘n’ Treat Scavenger App-venture to your traditional Halloween hunt this school holidays.

Solve riddles, crack clues & take on silly challenges with our Playtour browser app while trick or treating (no download required). Race against other crews to win the Halloween Treasure!

Cost: $13 per family/team (up to 5)

Location: Play anywhere.

How to Book:

Save the event: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BQxqPsBg9/?

Funds raised will support Oakleigh South Netball Club’s new hardship programme.

We love Oakleigh South, thank you for your support!

Oakleigh South Netball Club

TERM 4 JAPANESE TAIKO DRUMMING CLASSES

WALAKADO will be running Japanese Taiko Drumming Classes on-site at Oakleigh South Primary School in Term 4! 

You can sign up to experience the joyful beat of Japan while learning traditional Taiko drumming in a fun and energetic environment.

Classes will be held every Thursday in the school hall, and enrolments are now open. To secure a place, please scan the QR code on the flyer.

For enquiries, contact Ayako at ayako@walakado.com

PEPS FITNESS ACADEMY – AFTER SCHOOL FITNESS PROGRAM

Dear Parents,

Peps Fitness Academy is excited to launch a new after-school fitness program at Oakleigh South Primary School, starting Term 4!

Designed for Prep to Grade 4 students, this program provides a fun and engaging environment for children to stay active while learning the importance of physical fitness. Led by certified instructors, sessions will include a variety of exercises and activities suitable for all fitness levels.

Program Focus Areas:

  • Speed

  • Agility

  • Endurance

  • Sports Skills

  • Reflexes

Program Details:

  • Start Date: Tuesday 8th October

  • Time: 3.45pm – 4.30pm

  • Where: School Oval (every Wednesday)

  • Cost: $165 for Term 4 (11 sessions)

To enrol your child, please contact Coach Nick on 0403 676 866. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot early!

Peps Fitness Academy

PARENT GROUP

SAVE THE DATE – TWILIGHT PICNIC NIGHT!

The OSPS Parent Group invites all families to join us for a relaxed evening together on Thursday 17th October, from 5:00pm onwards.

Bring along your picnic rug, chairs, and dinner, and enjoy the opportunity to connect with other families while building a strong school community.

This is a free event and will be held on the main school oval.

If you have any questions, please contact Parent Group at osparentgroup67@gmail.com.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Parent Group

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.

SCHOOL COUNCIL

On behalf of the OSPS School Council, I am excited to share some fantastic news in this week’s newsletter! The School Council is pleased to confirm that the fundraising efforts at this year’s Fete raised an incredible $90,000. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and generous contributions from all of you!

Such funding is crucial for the continued development of our school facilities and programs, which have become the envy of most other primary schools. We are committed to ensuring that our school continues to be a wonderful place for all our students to learn and grow.

In collaboration with the school management team, the School Council is currently planning various exciting projects that can be revealed soon.

In the meantime, we have some immediate projects scheduled for the upcoming school holidays, including:

  • Construction of a bike shed area near the Junior building
  • Construction of a senior bike storage area at the front of the school. 
  • Other landscaping improvements, including expansion the Junior sandpit.

Our school has undergone a significant transformation over the past couple of years, with many projects having been completed and even more in the pipeline. None of these initiatives would have been possible without the enormous support of our school community.

Thank you all for your continued support.

Andrew Power

School Council President 

STUDENT SHOWCASE

WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING IN YEAR 5…

We’ve had a jam-packed Term 3 in Year 5. One of the highlights has been our activity rotations at South Oakleigh College. Every Wednesday afternoon, we’ve been visiting the school to take part in a range of activities run by SOC teachers. Year 5 students have explored acids, bases, and pH levels in Science; created Pop Art in Art; played large-scale educational games in the Small Lab; completed circuit exercises in the Fitness Centre; and learned about filming and presenting in the TV Studio.

These experiences have given students a valuable taste of what life in Secondary School might be like, as they approach their final term before their last year of Primary School. A big thank you to all the teachers and principals at SOC who supported us in this fantastic program!

LITERACY CORNER

Students in Year 5 have recently completed a unit on poetry, where they explored descriptive language and imagery to create their own nature-inspired poems. They are now applying these skills to narrative writing, learning how to develop characters, settings, and plot structures in order to craft engaging stories.
Here are some Show, Don’t Tell examples using different prompts: 

‘The storm was scary.’

Trembling in her cozy blanket, Susan watched the booming thunder rage on outside. Slanting rain slapped down rapidly on her window, making Susan jump. Quickly, Susan threw her blanket on top of her. Under her cotton shield, she peeked out to glance at the thundering storm again. Susan shivered. What a horrible day. 
- Lucy C., 5MP

‘The storm was scary.’

Under the flimsy little tent, the guests shivered in fear as the sky rolled above them. Carelessly, the thunder hurled the clouds here and there, creating a crowd of roars that rumbled the Earth. Huddling together to escape the rain, the guests stood in silence, unaware of what was awaiting them. Suddenly, thunder rolled, lightning flashed and the sky dropped into a massive storm of rain and hail.
- Elly W., 5MJ

‘He was tired.’

Painfully dragging his crippled body to his house, Bobby flopped onto the pinewood floor. Deciding to rest, he squirmed his way towards his bedroom. He leapt onto his bed which cracked rather audibly. Under the duvet, he cowered as his mum continuously raged at him for tracking mud on the floor.
- Aaron L. 5LG

YEAR 5 GEM 

In Year 5 we have been talking about R U OK? Day, and the importance of checking in with our friends, classmates, and family. In one of our computer sessions, we brainstormed the five people we can turn to for support if we need it, and then we had an opportunity to complete some creative writing on the theme of R U OK?

Students could choose to write a story, poem, song, letter, diary entry etc. The choice was theirs!

Here is some of the work our Year 5s submitted:

 

SPECIALIST SPOTLIGHT

TERM THREE IN THE MUSIC ROOM

This term has been alive with music, theatre, and creativity for our senior students. From large-scale performances involving hundreds of students across Victoria to our very own whole-school production of Matilda Jr, our students have thrown themselves into every opportunity with commitment, energy, and joy. These experiences have not only showcased their incredible talent but also the teamwork, resilience, and passion that make our school community so special.

THE VICTORIAN STATE SCHOOLS SPECTACULAR 2025 – ON AIR

Last week, 41 of our Year 5 students proudly represented our school in the Victorian State Schools Spectacular as part of the Mass Choir and Mass Dance. Over three huge days at John Cain Arena, they rehearsed alongside hundreds of students from across Victoria and then lit up the stage in two incredible performances on Saturday. Their enthusiasm, teamwork, and energy were outstanding, and they should all be very proud of their efforts.

Families will have the chance to relive the excitement with a special broadcast of behind-the-scenes highlights airing on Channel 7, Thursday 19 December at 7.00pm.

MATILDA JR

After months of rehearsals, costume sewing, prop construction, set painting, makeup, wigs, and four spectacular performances, our Matilda Jr production has come to a close. Our Year 6 students delivered a sensational show that captured the hearts of our school community, bringing this much-loved story to life with passion and talent.

From the first rehearsal to the final bow, the effort, creativity, and commitment of every student and staff member involved has been inspiring. Everyone should feel incredibly proud of what they achieved during show week — it was truly a production to remember!

PARENT CORNER

OSPS FACILITY USERS

We host a range of after-school programs and activities run by external providers here at OSPS. These programs operate independently from the school and are offered directly to families by the providers. All advertisements for these activities can be found in the OSPS Facility User Group section of our notice board and newsletters.

For any enquiries or to enrol, please contact the program providers directly.

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.

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