The Launceston Preparatory School - Newsletter 2 May 2024

From the Principal...

What an exciting time at The Launceston Preparatory School. I trust we’ve all had time to be adventurous, reflective and present over the holiday break. We are all super eager to support the further growth of our community of students, staff and families this term. Our theme is, Getting There! I wonder what our learning environments will uncover?

At the beginning of the year, I asked a question: how are we unleashing our children’s potential? Throughout Term 1, as I pondered this question, a growing sense of pride welled up within me. I began to discover my own place within our vibrant community, fostering a deeper sense of belonging. Before we unleash our potential, we need to first see it and communicate it. This was, in essence Term 1 for us. Celebrating what makes our school community great is an important part of the growth process. Taking the time to reflect on what sets us apart, our core values, and how we can harness these strengths for even greater impact is an essential part of our growth journey. It's about embracing our uniqueness and leveraging it to continually improve and excel. My conclusion of our community of staff is as follows:

“In our environment, we focus on our people, our culture and our future.

We do the little things authentically, whilst striving for continued improvement – 1% at a time”.

In Term 2, our school looks to continue to shine with a vibrant spirit of community and learning. It's our commitment to nurturing every student's potential, fostering resilience, and igniting curiosity that sets us apart. Our dedicated teachers and support staff create a dynamic environment where growth and success flourish, and this term’s offerings are no exception to this. From innovative learning initiatives like our DEEP program; Cultural Connection immersive experiences and excursions; incursions and visits from experts in our broader community; to enriching extracurricular activities, we provide diverse opportunities for all students to thrive. We truly have an amazing school culture and the dedicated people within make it so special. But don’t take my word for it, ask your child what incredible opportunities they have on offer when they enter our gates each morning. Better yet, take time to drop in and get involved – this term we have several ways to do so across the school:

• The Parents of The LPS group
• Reading Mornings
• Parent workshop hosted by industry expert, Jo McFarlane
• Parent / Teacher meetings
• Carnival days
• Mother’s Day Picnic  

Keep an eye on our calendar tool, here on the newsletter for more insights. Be sure to have ‘Mum drop off day’ on Wednesday of Week 2 (8^th May) in the calendar. We have a special surprise awaiting all mums on Olive Street, from 8:10am.

With another huge term ahead, I urge you to stay in touch with us all, and to share your child’s school journey, be it through homework, opportunities to join in on service initiatives, events, or just the general investment in conversations, beyond ‘what did you do today?’ (Which we know is often followed by, “nothing”). Paul Holman, former CEO of Unilever and Nestle` iterates, “The issues we face today are so big and so challenging, we cannot possibly face them alone. There is a certain humility in the recognition that we need to invite other people in…”.

Together, we celebrate achievements, overcome challenges, and cultivate a culture of kindness and respect. As we embark on another term of discovery and growth, let's continue to make our school a place where every student feels valued and inspired.

In Truth and Happiness,

Timothy Bristow.

Kinder - Anzac Day

Our Kindergarten students respectfully attended the Anzac Day Assembly on the last day of Term 1. 

Khitha, Isabelle, Reina and Jonty were outstanding representatives of our group, making their own poppies to wear, listening carefully to meaning of  ANZAC DAY while  thoughtfully followed the protocols of the ceremony. 

The occassion was a valuable opportunity for the children to connect to and contribute to their world. (Learning Outcome 2, EYLF)

Ms Rebecca Howard 

The Amazing Race - The LPS Staff

Recently, our staff continued to build their connection, vulnerability and growth, whilst never forgetting the sense of purposeful fun!

In teams of four, staff raced (within speed limits) around our town, finding clues at different venues that linked to our Term 2 theme, Getting There!, in an effort to become The Amazing Race, The LPS 2024 Champions!

Check out some of the action from our winning team – Kellie Crosby was even asked by a member of the Launceston public for a photo (clearly they thought our Kellie was famous, as part of the “real” television  show, The Amazing Race). Be sure to check in with Kellie and other staff on their adventures, and tactics – boxing Mrs McNair in to a carpark may have been the decisive manoeuvre on their path to victory!

Philosophy - Groups 4-6

Our shared novel this term is “Somewhere Around the Corner” by renowned Australian author Jackie French. At the start of the novel, the two main characters meet at a demonstration. One of them says, “But you’ve got to make a stand sometimes. You’ve got to stand up for what you believe in, even if you’re frightened. You’ve got to believe that you can make things better …” 

We discussed what it means to “make a stand”, the things we believe in that we would make a stand on, whether there are times when it is better NOT to make a stand and to walk away, and what making a stand can look like in practice. 

Many students showed their grasp of ethical principles and their courage in defence of them! 

Mrs L McNair

Leavers at Anzac Service

Over the holiday break, the Launceston ANZAC Day Service took place. A reverent and humbling experience, our chosen Leavers representatives took great honour in wearing our colours whilst laying the wreath and remembering those who have served and lost their lives at war. Wreath bearers, Tilly Barnes and Matilda Legge showed courage and humility during their time at the Cenotaph, whilst Jack Gray also represented The LPS by laying a posy of flowers. A wonderful show of leadership by the three members of our student cohort, giving up their holidays to reflect. Lest We Forget.

Music News - Jon Madin

We are very lucky to have Jon Madin visiting our school again next Tuesday the 7th of May. Jon tours Australia with a wide selection of whacky, home-made musical instruments, and teaches students fun songs. 

All students from the Preps to Year 6s will attend a session during the day, culminating in a concert at the end of the day running from 2:30 until 3:00, downstairs Multi-purpose hall. 

Parents are encouraged to come to the concert and witness Jon’s incredible instruments and his way of teaching music.

Mr Billy Green

Lian Tanner Visit

The Senior students enjoyed a visit on Tuesday from Tasmanian author, Lian Tanner. Many of the students were familiar with at least one of her books that we have in our school library. Lian spoke with the children about ways in which they can make writing fun and some key questions to consider when writing. As a cohort, the students created a story about a dragon that couldn't breathe fire and the problems it faced, progressively making life for the dragon more terrible. What an awesome way to start Term 2!

Miss Mel Andrews

Group 2/3

The Group 2/3s have all returned to school ready for action! They are excited about the new theme and have already shown great focus and interest. 

On Monday the children were visited by author, Lian Tanner.  Lian shared some childhood memories and stories told to her by her parents.  She then read to us her book, Ella and the Ocean. 

Lian explained how stories need a main character, a setting, and a problem.  She worked with the children to develop a whole class story with input from the whole group.  This was a great session that helped to develop and reinforce the story-writing skills they have been learning with Mrs Thyne. 

We were extremely proud of the focus, questions and contributions made by all our students.  Lian was very impressed with their creativity and willingness to contribute, claiming it was one of the best groups she had worked with!

Mrs Harriet Thyne and Mrs Melissa Freeland

Early Learning

We welcome our happy, smiling Early Learners to Term 2. We have some new faces joining us this term and we are looking forward to a busy and fun term of learning. 

Mrs Alice Batten

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Autumn fun in Prep/1

What an amazingly settled and happy start to the term we have had. Lots of growing over the holidays, lots of teeth lost, lots and lots of reading! The progress in reading is staggering. We are delighted with the reading confidence as it develops. This term we are beginning Parent Reading before school at morning drop off on a Wednesday. This will be an opportunity to drop in, find a book and a cosy spot to read with your child all together. Should only be a 10 minute job. A memorable experience for all.

Starting: Next Wednesday Week 2

Event: Parent Reading Morning

Time: 8:15-8:40

Bring: Your school bag

Where: Multi Purpose Hall

We look forward to seeing you there Wednesday.

Mrs Kellie Cook and Miss Nicole England

Sport Reports

Tennis

The LPS tennis team played Scotch Oakburn at Tennis World. We showed great sportsmanship and had a great end game. The final score was LPS 10 - Scotch 6 - Robert M.

Cricket 

The LPS mixed cricket team played Scotch Oakburn at NTCA. On Friday we played Scotch Oakburn, we played a really good game even though it was a hot day. Special mention to those who got a wicket or caught a catch - Max M & Sophie M. 

Speedball

The LPS Girls’ speedball team played Scotch Oakburn at Scotch Oakburn Park. The scores were 9 - 12 their favour. The weather was lovely and sunny. Even though the other team won we still played one of our best games.  Special mentions to Amelia for improving and playing very well and to Poppy for great defending. - Tilly B, Esther L, Susie C and Matilda L

The LPS Boys’ speedball team played Scotch Oakburn at Scotch Oakburn Park. The score was 7-4 our favour. Special mention to  everyone for having a great season - Patrick                                . 

Cross Country Carnival - Thursday 16th May

The cross country country carnival will be held on Thursday 16th May at Launceston United Soccer Club, Birch Avenue Newstead.

Like every carnival, Mr Payne is looking for some parent helpers to assist in directing our students around the course. If you are available and would like to assist in this role, could you please let Melissa in the office know. 

Approximate Times

12.30 - Group 3

12.45 - Group 2

1.00 - Group 1

1.10 - Prep

1.20 - Group 6

1.40 - Group 5

1.55 - Group 4

2.05 - Kinder

2.10 - Early Learning

2.20 - Family fun run  

The family fun run is always a highlight at the end of the carnival so make sure you pack your runners! 

Mr Payne always get the question on distances for each course. Whilst he doesn't have an exact distance for our school cross country courses, he does have the NIJSSA distances for grades 3-6. 

Grade 3 - 1.3km

Grade 4 - 1.8km

Grade 5 - 2.075km

Grade 6 - 2.2km

National Walk Safely to School Day - 10th May 2024

On Friday the 10th of May we will be participating in the National Walk Safely to School Day. This is an annual event that promotes safe and healthy travel options for students. The event encourages children and families to walk, cycle or scoot to school. It aims to increase physical activity levels, reduce traffic congestion and improve road safety awareness. We will meet at Hoblers Bridge Netball Courts Car Park on Pine Avenue & Hart Street at 8.00am.

I encourage all parents/carers to come along and walk to school with their child.

I look forward to seeing you there! 😊

Mr Alex Payne