15 March 2023

Newsletter Articles

Principal’s Pride

2023 Annual Implementation Plan (AIP) Focus Areas:
Educational achievement
Wellbeing and engagement
Culture and inclusion

Dear Parents, Caregivers and Community Members,

Welcome to Week 8! There are now just 12 days of teaching and learning left this term – hard to believe how quickly time flies.

Events-wise, this week brings the commencement of NAPLAN for our Year 3 and 5 students, School Cross Country Trials and the Student Council’s first fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House. This week our Assistant Regional Director, Suzanne Currin, also visited to discuss the inquiry cycle utilised in the implementation of the synthetic phonics and decodable reading processes P-3 at The Willows State School. We also had Central Office, Principal Planning Officer, Geoffrey Elliott, on site on Tuesday regarding the development of a long-term Infrastructure Master Plan for The Willows State School.

Student Council – Colours for the Kids – in support of Ronald McDonald House – Friday, 17 March

Our 2023 Student Councillors have organised their Term 1 community fundraiser. All students are invited to wear ‘colourful’ free dress for a gold coin donation this Friday. All proceeds raised are for their chosen charity, Ronald McDonald House.

NAPLAN TESTING – Year 3 and 5 students – commenced THIS WEEK

From 2023, NAPLAN testing has been moved to Term 1.

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to visit the NAPLAN Online Public Demonstration site to view models of the online testing and provide students with further opportunities to interact with the platform.

For further information regarding NAPLAN Online, including privacy statements, please visit the link below:

The test schedule for our Year 3 and 5 students is as below:

2023 NAPLAN Test Schedule - Week 8 and 9, Term 1 2023

Prep ‘My First Year’ Townsville Bulletin Lift Out

We have been notified that the My First Year 2023 lift out - a special keepsake featuring Prep class photos from across the region - will be appearing in The Townsville Bulletin on 22nd March 2023.

Cluster Collaborative ‘Before Moderation’

On Monday, 13 March from 3:30-5:30pm our teaching staff participated in collaborative planning for the first English Unit of work for Term 2 with colleagues from Weir SS and Rasmussen SS. The requirements of the assessment tasks were unpacked and alignment in our understanding of the A-C standards obtained through the development of exemplars. Moderation work (at all stages of the cycle) is an important process used to ensure clarity, rigour and consistency of standards.

Three Way Conversations – to be held face-to-face in classrooms in the last week of term

Information was distributed to all students last week advising parents of the process to book individual meeting times with their child’s class teacher and other specialist teachers. We encourage parents to take this opportunity to meet with their child’s teacher to discuss their child’s progress during Term 1. The ‘Five Questions’ will be a framework utilised during discussion.

Powerful Questions to get to Know Learners and Learning – based on the research of Lyn Sharratt

Five Questions Teachers can ask their students:

1. What are you learning?
2. How are you doing?
3. How do you know?
4. How can you improve?
5. Where do you go for help?

Parents are our learners’ first teachers. We recognise how hugely influential parents can be in the learning for, with, and beside each student. There are also 5 questions for parents, middle leaders, leaders and system leaders as well.

Five Questions Parents can ask their children:

1. What did you learn today?
2. How did you do?
3. What did you do if you didn’t understand?
4. How can you improve on your learning?
5. What are you most proud of?

Why not try out these questions with your students when discussing their day at school? I look forward to hearing some feedback about your students’ responses.

Department of Education Health, Safety & Wellbeing March focus - Occupational Violence and Aggression

In 2022 our school adopted (through consultation with the P&C) the Department of Education Parent and Community Code of Conduct. Everyone has the right to be safe in our schools and workplaces. This document has also been uploaded to our school website. The motto is: Your child, our student. One Team.

School Photos COMING UP – 22-24 March (Wed-Friday Week 9)

Please see the School Photo Flyer below for details of how to order your child’s school photos. Photo order envelopes have now been dispatched to all students. These envelopes contain comprehensive information about the packages available and instructions for ordering.

Please note when your child’s class are having their photo taken (see timetable below) and ensure they are dressed in full school uniform. Please also note any classes having their photos taken on Wednesday, 22 March are to wear full school uniform NOT sporting house shirts. Also a reminder that Year 6 students are to wear the school polo shirt, NOT their Senior shirt. Advanced Life photographers advise us that school photographs should be returned 4-6 weeks after photography days are completed.

ADVANCE DATE CLAIMER FOR THOSE INTERESTED: P&C Annual General Meeting (AGM)

The Willows State School Parents & Citizens Association will hold this year’s AGM at 6.00pm, Tuesday 21st March 2023 in the Willows State School TCBC Conference Room.

All staff, parents and citizens of the Willows State School community are invited to attend. You will be able to enter the school grounds only through the pedestrian gate on Bilberry Street located next to the staff carpark and OSHC building.

Key times to note:

5:00pm: Welcome to P&C - come a little earlier to meet the current exec team
5:30pm: Volunteer Induction - the school will run their compulsory induction for anybody wishing to volunteer in the school
6:00pm: AGM commences
6:30pm: P&C General meeting begins straight after our AGM. Everyone gets cake!

Have a wonderful week – our next newsletter will be issued on Wednesday, 22 March.

Warm regards,

Michelle Donn
Principal

General News

BOOK CLUB

Just a reminder that Book Club Orders are due this Friday, 17th March.

QUEENSLAND BALLET WORKSHOP

This week, we welcomed the Queensland Ballet to run an in-school workshop with our Dance Troupe. This workshop explored the connection between artwork and dance, inspired by a selection of paintings created by Judy Watson. The workshop explored movement sequences and the connection to design, inspired by a short video of Watson describing her paintings. Students drew descriptive words from the video to create movement phrases, including resilient, floating, strong and hidden. Here’s what some of our Dance Troupe had to say about the experience:

‘It made me want to teach dance when I am older.’

‘It was very fun. It taught us how to be confident dancing by ourselves. It was very educational.’

‘Thanks Queensland Ballet!’

EASTER BONNET PARADE – PREP, YEAR 1 AND YEAR 2

Upcoming Events

Year Level Parade Times

Permission Forms

YEAR 6 CAMP

Positive Behaviour Learning

Defence News

I have included photos from our wonderful International Women’s Day activities. All the girls who attended had the opportunity to make a craft item to take home. It was lots of FUN.

Don’t forget to remind students that the Defence room in L Pod is open both breaks Monday to Friday to visit for a chat, play games, make craft or visit with a friend.

If you have posted into location in the last 18mths you can still access Education Assistance Scheme. This is available for all school aged children who may require support in Maths and English. Contact the Helpline on 1800 624 608 for all details on how to apply. Just complete the form online and send an email to the teacher. With approval, your child can have access to 14hrs of tutoring for both Maths and English through a private tutor. You can also contact me with any questions. See attached flyer for details.

Defence members are always busy with going on exercises or training for an extended period of time, please contact me so I can support your child while they are at school or call me for a chat. Some mornings can be challenging when a loved one is away. Gently remind your child that every child has to come to school every day, as every day counts. Being at school is important for your child’s education. Parents Be Positive, Keep Routine and Give a Hug. Call on 4799 1333 or e-mail me cwhee36@eq.edu.au . You are welcome to drop into my room at L Pod for a chat, Monday to Friday.

Open Arms has released their Group Programs for January to July, so check out their website at OpenArms.gov.au for all the details.

Kookaburra Kids is in Townsville - this organisation supports kids living in families that are affected by mental illness. They hold activities and camps for children which are all FREE. Magnetic Island camp is organised for March and Ice-Skating in April. For more details on activities contact Hannah Galliner on 0484 544 451 or check out the website

For what’s coming up - DON’T FORGET to Register NOW to receive a newsletter and updates at dmfs.townsville@defence.gov.au or follow them on Facebook.

Geckos Family Centre-North Queensland is at Lavarack Barracks and is open to drop in. They have weekly events on, a huge brand-new playground area outside, stop in and meet the friendly staff for a chat and a cuppa. School holidays are coming up so contact Geckos for activities that are on during this time. Follow them on Facebook to keep up to date with the activities and events held throughout the year or phone them on 07 4411 7031 for more details. See flyer below for details.

TO BE UP TO DATE WITH WHATS ON IN TOWNSVILLE CHECK

DATES TO REMEMBER

GECKOS EASTER BUN-ANZA! - Saturday 25th March 4.00-7.00pm

Kicking off at 4pm, there will be amusements, music, tasty treats, a 2-course meal and a special visit from the Easter Bunny. Grab your tickets quick

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

Defence Family Helpline 24/7 - 1800 624 608 - Need Help give them a call

DMFS Office at Nathan Business Centre on Ross River Rd, call 07 4430 3879

Open Arms support former and current serving ADF personnel and their family members can use the service – office is at the Nathan Business Centre or call 1800 011 046 www.openarms.gov.au

Mates4Mates – Townsville FRC 4771 9600 townsville@mates4mates.org

Café now Open from 9am-12.30pm every day, you are welcome to attend for a chat and to have a look around.

The Oasis Townsville for Ex-ADF Community in Townsville hello@theoasistownsville.org.au

Dirty Books Café – 1 Staging Camp Avenue, Oonoonba – 07 4759 8777 is currently under renovation

DFA (Defence Families of Australia) – NQ Delegate Larissa Ostermann 0418 796 561 nth.qld@dfa.org.au

DSNG Defence Special Needs Group - 1800 037 674 www.dsng.org.au

Beyondblue.org.au www.australia.gov.au

Geckos Family Centre Nth Qld Lavarack Barracks - Contact for enquiries on 07 4446 1238 or follow on Facebook

Kookaburra Kids Charity Organisation Mental Health Service - 1300 566 525 www.kookaburrakids.org.au or contact Hannah Galliner 0484 544 451/1300 566 525

Defence Holidays NQ at Lavarack Barracks (opp the Gym) - 07 4725 3842 admin@defenceholidaysnq.com.au

My hours are Monday to Friday 8:00am-3:30pm. Please phone me anytime for a chat on 4799 1333 ext 323, or email me cwhee36@eq.edu.au . I look forward to meeting you.

Correna Wheeler
Defence School Mentor

IT’S OK NOT BE OK, JUST TALK TO SOMEONE AND SHARE YOUR FEELINGS.

Music News (The Pitch)

PE News

Ruth Young Hockey Gala Day

On Friday 10th March, The Willows sent two teams to the very first Ruth Young Hockey Gala Day at the Townsville Hockey centre at Annandale.

The two teams were our Hotshots (children who have played before plus some rookies) and our Rookies (children who have never played before and only picked up a stick 3 weeks ago).

Each team got 5 pool games and a finals game for placings.

Rookies: Allyra, Maddison, Austin, Samuel, Mackenzie, Tej, Alorah, Arya.

The Rookies got off to a bit of a shaky start in their first game losing 4-0 to Annandale, however as the game went on they grew into it with a stand out performance from Sam and Mackenzie having some great shots at goal. Game 2 saw them beat Holy Spirit 1-0 thanks to a Mackenzie goal. Game 3 was a tight affair against Good Shepherd finishing as a 0-0 stalemate. Their fourth game was won by a great goal from Arya to beat Weir 1-0. Their final game saw them go down 2-1 to Cathedral whilst having the majority of the play, with another great Mackenzie goal. The placing match was a 0-0 draw with Cathedral to put us 6th.

Hotshots: Lachlan, Jaxon, Anglea, Ruby, Kenzie, Teleah, Owen, Tamika.

The Hotshots were very unlucky in their first game against Grammar as they had all of the play and came away 3-0 losers. Next up Holy Spirit, another dominant display with goals from Owen, Teleah and Lachlan to get a 3-0 win. Game 3 against Weir saw goals from Lachlan and 2 from Jaxon give us a 3-1 win. Another strong show against Southern Cross failed to give any reward and saw us fall to a 2-0 defeat. Our final pool game was against Cathedral and after a strong start in which Teleah scored we fell away eventually losing 2-1 on the final whistle. Our placing match saw us up against Weir once again, and once again we stepped up. Well-taken goals from Tamika and Jaxon saw us take the lead and a final goal from Lachlan saw us 3-0 winners and 4th overall.

The children all had an amazing time despite the blistering heat – thank goodness for the sprinklers. They were commented on how amazing their team spirit was as each team went to watch and support each other. All day the children received compliments on their behaviour and they should be very proud of their conduct, their playing and their sportsmanship.

Our Hotshots with former Willows student and now Queensland representative Kasey Parison.

Our Hotshots after out 3-0 against Holy Spirit.

Some of our Rookies looking too cool to cheer.

The Willows Cheer Squad!

Cooling off with the sprinklers.

Interschool Swimming Carnival

Last Tuesday, a small team of swimmers represented The Willows State School at the ‘B’ School’s Interschool Swimming Carnival at Long Tan Memorial Pool.

A big CONGRATULATIONS to all team members. We placed 7th, which was an outstanding result by all Willows representative.

Team members were committed and attended training sessions before school as well as meeting to practise and perfect the war cry ready for our introduction at the pool.

Thank you to all the parents for their support both with attending training sessions and supporting us on the day. Your support is truly appreciated.

Thank you also to the staff who supervised the training sessions and the students on the day to make the event possible.

Willows Warriors News

Prep News

English

In English, Preps are learning to retell their favourite story, making connections to the story and presenting it to their friends.

Mathematics

In Mathematics, Preps are learning to sort a variety of objects in different ways. Preps are sorting by colour, same object, hard and soft, long and short and big and small.

75 Stars Rewards Activity

To celebrate getting 75 Stars in Week 5, Preps had an outdoor play session. We set up an obstacle course, sandpit toys and many other outdoor play toys. Everyone had lots of fun.

Year One News

Welcome to Week 8 of Term 1. How fast has that happened? Our learners have really gotten into the swing of ways of working in Year 1 across the classrooms. There have been so many different things we have already been successful at.

In English, we have continued our working around comprehending and responding to different narrative and most of our classrooms have been working on constructing retells for the story Big Rain Coming and are moving onto sharing then justifying our opinions on some of the events that take place in this story.

In Maths, we have been investigating Chance and Probability as well as collecting and showing data that helps us learn some facts about a topic. We’ve also been investigating different rules we can use with problem solving and ways we can show our thinking as we do this.

In Science, we have continued learning about how habitats support the needs of living things and then what can happen when these habitats are changed through natural and unnatural causes.

In the upcoming weeks as we wind down, there will be events to look forward to like our 75 Star and Silver Rewards in Week 10. Ask your learner about the plans Year 1 has for these 😊

Year Two News

In Year 2 this week, students have been learning how to count syllables to be successful innovating a poem for English. The students have been practising counting syllables by placing their hand under their chin and counting how many times their chin hits their hand when saying a word. We have explored words with one to five syllables.

Year 2 have also been learning how to use chance and probability language in Maths this week. Students have guessed what they think is in a parcel and explained the chance of their guesses being correct after feeling and smelling the parcel. Students were excited to discover one student’s guess was correct. It was a soft fluffy toy Bunny.

In Science this week, Year 2 have been exploring the strength and water resistance of materials in preparation for making their own lunchbox in the coming weeks. 2D discovered paper can be reinforced with plastic sticky tape to increase its strength and water resistance. They experimented by hanging a water bottle from a hole in the paper. The paper broke when it was not reinforced by tape but held the bottle when reinforced by tape.

Year Three News

Year 3 have been busy all term learning how to recognise different operations in Maths. This has involved many games using addition, subtraction, moving up and down and across, even multiplicaiton and division. This term, students are required to have a strong understanding of how to subtract and add with regrouping and without regrouping. There are many strategies to achieve this so the students have been busy learning them. Teachers will expose students to base ten materials for a hands on experience, a variety of enjoyable games, split strategy and numberline. The Year 3 teachers enjoy seeing the different strategies and how these suit different learners.

Year Four News

In Health this term, the Year 4’s have been learning about cyber safety and our digital footprint. This is especially important for our students new to the BYOx program this year. We have been considering the amount of time we spend on the screen compared to the recommended time of two hours a day. Students have learned how to create a secure password making sure they have capital letters, lowercase letters, numbers and symbols. They have also been learning about their digital footprint and making sure that everything they do or say online stays positive as it can always be traced.

Year Five News

In Science this term, Year 5 students have been learning about how animals adapt to survive in their environment. As part of their assessment they created a creature and justified their selection of body parts (structural adaptations). Later, they also had to outline how an animal may adapt it’s behaviour when there is a dramatic change in it’s habitat. 5E and 5D also enjoyed a series of art challenges related to our Science unit.

Year Six News

Week 7 and 8 in 5/6F have been jam packed with learning and assessment. We’re in the process of completing our short stories and have been trying to add more figurative language and imagery to help describe characters, events and settings. Students worked hard to create some figurative language art to include in their short stories, they were fantastic!

Community News

TOWNSVILLE INCLUSIVE EDUCATION WORKSHOP