Principal's Report
Value of the Term: Growth
This term, our school-wide focus is on the value of Growth. Growth is not just about academic progress, but also about personal development, resilience, and the ability to embrace challenges. We encourage students to reflect on their strengths and areas for improvement, to set goals for themselves, and to approach each task with determination and a growth mindset. This is a time for learning to flourish, for nurturing curiosity, and for seeing mistakes as stepping stones towards success.
ANZAC Day Reflection
As we return to school, we also reflect on the significance of ANZAC Day, observed on April 25th. ANZAC Day is a time to honour and remember the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of the men and women who served our country during times of war. In our classrooms, we’ve taken the time to reflect on the values of bravery, mateship, and service that are central to the ANZAC spirit. We encourage families to continue these conversations at home, to instil a sense of respect and gratitude in our young learners, and to reflect on the importance of peace.
Shout Outs
Thank you to all students and families who attending the Penguin ANZAC DAY Service, there were a number of students in school uniform, representing community groups and with family.
During the holidays, Year 10 student Walter participated in the Speed Cubing Tasmanian State Championships in Hobart.
Walter entered in two events: the 3x3x3 and 4x4x4. In the 3x3x3 he came 15th in the first round. His best solve time was 13.46 seconds and his average was 16.24 seconds.
In the 4x4x4 he came 11th in the final. His best time to solve the cube was 59.70 seconds and his average time was 1 minute and 6.12 seconds.
Walter also received an award for being the 3rd fastest 3x3x3 newcomer.
A fantastic effort and an activity that other students might consider trying in the future – whether that be for fun, or competitively.
Thank you to the families, community members, students and staff for assisting with the clean up of the old primary school in preparation for the election on Saturday. This has been a mammoth task.
Communicating with Families
The upcoming Secondary Communicating with Families meetings will take place in Week 3. These meetings are a great opportunity to support your child to reflect on their learning across the first part of the year, celebrate successes, and set goals for future growth.
We encourage all families to book an appointment and bring their child along to meetings with teachers. Alternatively, you can book a phone call.
Please see below for the dates/times and the booking link.
Monday, May 12 -3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Tuesday, May 13 - 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Wednesday, May 14 - 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm
https://penguinds.schoolzineplus.com/view-session/49
Please note the Primary Communicating with Families meetings will take place in Week 7 (June 10-12).
Staffing Update
As we bid farewell to five remarkable members of our team, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude and appreciation for their contributions.
We would like to extend a thank you to Mr. Andrew Woodard for his exceptional creativity and leadership during his short time with us. We are excited to see all the great things he will accomplish in his new position as Statewide Disability Educational Adjustment Moderator for the remainder of the year. We wish Andrew all the best and will see him back in 2026.
Mel Carpenter: Your creativity and enthusiasm have brought so much joy and inspiration to our school. We will miss your innovative ideas and positive energy in the Year 7 space.
Ava McDonald: Your kindness and unwavering support have been felt and appreciated by many. Thank you for always being there for our students and staff.
Megan O’Donnell: Your supportive nature and friendly personality are appreciated. We are grateful for the level of care you have brought to our school.
Sharyn Radcliff: Your wisdom and guidance have shaped countless young minds. Your dedication to education has left a lasting impact on us all. We wish you all the best as you return to the health department.
We wish Andrew, Mel, Ava, Sharyn, and Megan all the best in their future endeavours and hope to see them at PDS again soon.
We are pleased to welcome (and welcome back), Mrs Amie Redman, Mrs Jenny Slatter, Miss Sophie Cox and Ms Kristen O’Keefe our team. We look forward to working with each of you and are confident that you will bring fresh ideas and energy to PDS. Be sure to look at Facebook next week for more information.
Mrs Amie Redman – Monday and Wednesday Year 9/10 Maths Science
Mrs Jenny Slater – Tuesday and Wednesday Prep – Year 4 Art
Miss Sophie Cox – Wednesday and Friday Art and Digital Technology
Mrs Kristen O’Keefe – Thursday and Friday Years 3-6 Support Teacher
Mr Jayden Bramich – Tuesday/Thursday Educational Facility Attendant
Miss Charlotte Cameron - Friday ICT
The Importance of Reading: Finding Time for Pleasure
At PDS we know that reading is not just an academic skill. It is a lifelong tool for learning and discovery. This term, we are reminding all students of the importance of carving out time for reading for pleasure. Whether it's a novel, a magazine, or even a graphic novel, reading allows students to develop their imagination, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills. We encourage all students to make time for reading outside the classroom, whether it’s curling up with a book at home, exploring new genres, or sharing their favourite stories with others. A love of reading is something that will stay with students for life and enrich every aspect of their learning.
A favourite book in our house is "Kissed by the Moon" by Alison Lester. While attending a family wedding in Victoria during the holidays we saw a pink moon (I know it doesn’t look pink in this picture). Kissed by the Moon is a beautifully illustrated book that combines elements of a poem and a lullaby. The story gently encourages readers to appreciate the simple, yet profound gifts that nature offers, fostering a sense of peace, love, and belonging. It's a timeless book that can be cherished and shared, making it perfect for bedtime reading. What books are you reading in your house this week?
This term PDS re-launched our “Reading at Home” program for Prep to Year 2 students. Borrowing takes place in the kitchenette in the Early Years building every morning between 8:20am and 8:45am. Please reach out to our teaching staff if you have any questions.
Looking Ahead
We are excited for what Term 2 will bring. Whether it’s academic challenges, extracurricular activities, or personal milestones, we know our students will continue to grow and thrive. Remember, growth happens both in and outside of the classroom, and we are here to support every step of the way.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support.
Yours in partnership
Angela McAuliffe