School Newsletter - 20th August 2025

From the Principal

NAPLAN

Newsletter Vol 9, 25th June, 2025 we shared our pleasing NAPLAN improvement data in comparison to similar schools.  We are now able to share our Year 3 and 5 students NAPLAN results against Tasmanian and Australian results. 

Our Year 3 students are above similar school in all areas and very close to similar school in writing.  Our strength is numeracy, reading and spelling compared to all Tasmanian schools and the rest of Australia. 

Our Year 5 students are above similar schools in writing and the same as similar schools in reading and numeracy.  Our strength in Year 5 is writing.  

At Waverley Primary School, we have seen strong improvements in student learning. This has come from having a clear plan for improvement, focused teaching in every classroom, high expectations for all learners, and the important support you provide at home.

 Science Week 

During the past week, all of our classes joined in National Science Week lessons. Our Year 5–6 students took on the role of mentors, guiding our Prep students through a range of fun experiments. Year 1 - 4 students were also very lucky to win a prize that gave them the chance to take part in a full day of STEAM learning at QVMAG. We are very thankful to QVMAG for supporting our school and making this experience possible. A more detailed report will follow from our Teacher in Charge, Miss Meallin. 

 Children’s Book Week 

Our annual Book Week Parade fills our school with joy and colourful imagination. All students and adults embrace their creativity, dressing as beloved book characters. It truly warms our hearts to see our young readers proudly bringing their favourite stories to life. This special occasion brings our whole community together to celebrate the joy of reading, and this year’s theme, "Book an Adventure!", invites us all to journey through the wondrous worlds found in books The Children’s Book Council of Australia.

As part of our Book Week celebrations, we have begun each morning with a special assembly. Our students have been excited to welcome a surprise guest reader each day. On Monday, our Education Facility Attendant, Mr Michael Doolan, delighted students by reading and sharing his musical talents. On Tuesday, Ms Kim Millar from Nightly News 7 Tasmania joined us. She spoke about her lifelong love of reading and writing, and how much she enjoys her job sharing stories from Tasmania and around the world each night. In our next newsletter, we look forward to sharing photos from our wonderful Book Week parade.

A full report will follow from our Teacher in Charge, Mr Millwood. 

Book Week Guest Reader

Our Vision

At Waverley we foster a safe, inclusive community, nurturing lifelong learners through trust, respect, and positive relationships, empowering students for success.

This means we care for one another, help each other learn, and treat each other with kindness. A key part of this is our Learning Behaviours, which help students reflect on how they learn — including being ready to learn, staying focused, and supporting their classmates.

Our School Learning Behaviours

  We are:   

Safe: We work and play in a way that is safe for all members of the school community   

Helpful: We work together to support each other   

INclusive: We value the right of everyone to learn and take responsibility to ensure that access to a high-level educational program is accessible to all   

Excellent: We aspire to be our very best at all times   

Our Safe and Ready to Learn Model

Our Values  

• Connection- Building positive relationship and a sense of belonging.  

• Courage- accepting challenges and embracing opportunities.   

• Growth- aspiring to learn, and improving, even when it is tough.  

• Respect- Caring for ourselves, each other, and our environment.  

• Responsibility Stepping up and doing what is right.   

At Waverley, we value respect and our SHINE expectations. Swearing is not acceptable at school. We expect all students to use kind and respectful language. 

Please support this message at home. If your child hears inappropriate language, encourage them to tell a staff member so we can address it. 

Together, we can keep Waverley a welcoming and respectful community. 

Thank you for your support. 

Student Wellbeing and Engagement Survey

Attention: Parents and Carers of students in Years 4-6 

At Waverley Primary School the wellbeing of our students is one of our main priorities. We want to hear directly from our students about how they’re feeling and what’s happening in their lives. 

Students in Years 4-6 will soon be participating in the Student Wellbeing and Engagement Survey. This important survey helps us build a clear picture of our students’ current wellbeing and identify ways we can better support them to thrive and engage in learning. 

The more students who take part, the more meaningful the insights will be. 

This survey is part of the Department’s Child and Student Wellbeing Strategy. 

Survey Details 

When:                                    Week 7 (week beginning 1 September) 

Who:                                       Year 4-6 students 

What do I need to do:     You and your child don’t need to do anything. The survey will be done in class time and will not require your child to prepare in any way. 

A letter with more information has been sent home for all Year 4-6 students and includes a form to return if you do not want your child to participate. 

If you have any questions or would like further information, please contact Mrs Anita Price. 

Thank you for supporting our efforts to ensure every student feels safe, supported, and ready to learn. 

Answers for Families about the Students Wellbeing and Engagement Survey 

Student Wellbeing and Engagement Survey answers for families - Department for Education, Children and Young People 

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Science Week

We are delighted to share that our application to participate in the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery’s (QVMAG) Science Week for Schools program was successful.

Students from Prep to Year 4 enjoyed a full-day program at the Inveresk campus, engaging in a wide range of hands-on, interactive STEAM learning activities. The day centred on this year’s Science Week theme: Decoding the Universe – Exploring the Unknown with Nature’s Hidden Language.

We are grateful to QVMAG for providing this opportunity, which covered entry fees (valued at $10 per student) and transport to and from the venue. This generous support equated to an overall value of approximately $1,000 for our school community.

Our students had an exciting day out at the Museum at Inveresk to celebrate National Science Week. This year’s theme, Decoding the Universe – Exploring the unknown with nature’s hidden language, encouraged us to look closely at the patterns, systems, and stories that shape the world around us.

Students explored physics through pendulum painting and sound experiments, watching gravity create swirling artworks and sound vibrations form patterns in sand and water. They experimented with Japanese marbling ink, creating stunning designs as colours swirled and mixed across the page. One of the most exciting moments was making paper helicopters and testing how different shapes and sizes affected how they spun and floated through the air. This linked beautifully to learning about aerodynamics and how First Nation people have long understood these principles through tools like spears and boomerangs, including the inventions of David Unaipon.

Students also worked together on maths-based puzzles and tangram challenges, discovering the magic of mathematical patterns through creative problem-solving. Later in the day, they had time to explore the Tasmanian Connections exhibition at their own pace, reflecting on how science connects to local stories, environments, and innovations.

Here’s what some of our students had to say

"We watched swinging cups filled with paint to make patterns. It was fun making the paint move and seeing the shapes it made." Domanic (Year 2)

"We used special ink to make swirly designs on paper. It was fun to see how the colours moved and mixed!" Alydia (Year 2) 

"I liked finding patterns” (Cruz, Year 3)

It was an inspiring day that reminded us how powerful science can be. Our students returned buzzing with excitement, ready to keep decoding the universe in their own classrooms.

Miss Liv Meallin

Year 2 Teacher

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Young Tassie Scientist

On Thursday 7th August students in Year 3 to 6 heard from three different young scientists about their chosen field of study. Mr Samuel Verne spoke about Dark Matter, Mr Jake Newland talked to us about flies and how their DNA is like human’s, and from Miss Caitlin Silberberg, an ecologist who specialises in the endangered giant freshwater crayfish spoke to us about her research. Students were engaged and excited to hear all about the different avenues of scientific research and the importance and impact this can have on the environment and ourselves.

Quotes from Students: 

“I loved learning about how much the crayfish weigh” Levi (3/4)   

“It was cool, I really liked that we got to feel some of the crystals” Kaspian (3/4)

“I liked when Caitlin told us about the freshwater animals” Amarli (4/5) 

“It made me want to learn more about being a scientist” Bethany (5/6) 

Miss Amelia Harmey

AST

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Ditto's Keep Safe Adventure Show

On Tuesday, 19th August, Waverley Primary School was delighted to welcome Bravehearts and their beloved mascot, Ditto, for a special performance for students in Kinder to Year 2.

Bravehearts is a leading Australian child protection organisation dedicated to educating, empowering, and protecting children from harm. Their mission is to prevent child sexual abuse through education, advocacy, and support. One of their most engaging initiatives is the “Ditto’s Keep Safe Adventure” show—a fun, interactive performance designed to teach young children essential personal safety skills in a safe and age-appropriate way.

Ditto’s performance at Waverley was filled with music, movement, and important messages. Through catchy songs and relatable scenarios, Ditto helped students learn how to:

• Recognise their feelings and trust their instincts
• Say “no” if they feel unsafe or unsure
• Identify safe adults they can talk to
• Understand the difference between safe and unsafe touches

The performance was not only educational but also thoroughly enjoyable. The children were captivated by Ditto’s energy and warmth, and they enthusiastically participated in the activities and songs. It was heartening to see every student engaged and empowered by the show’s important messages.

We thank Bravehearts for their incredible work and for bringing such a meaningful experience to our school. It was a valuable reminder that safety education can be both impactful and fun.

Mrs Anita Price

Assistant Principal

Waverley Wonders

Waverley Wonders designs Faraday Connect logo

Waverley Wonders is a group of students from Year 3 - 6 who work with the City of Launceston Community Connector Sarah McCormack to build a stronger community. The group of seven students were invited to design the logo for the Waverley and Ravenswood community group, Faraday Connect. Waverley Wonders designed the logo with a big sun in Waverley Primary School colours and a road in the background representing Faraday Street, the road that links Ravenswood and Waverley. Both groups worked collaboratively on the logo and on Tuesday 19 August 2025 at the monthly Faraday Connect meeting, the students were acknowledged for their work and shared a morning tea. This is a wonderful example of community connection in our local suburb of Waverley in the Launnie Connecting Community program.

Ms Sarah McCormack

Community Connector

Lifeskills and Adventure Program

Ten lucky students from Waverley Primary School are currently participating in the  Lifeskills and Adventure Program, an exciting initiative facilitated by PCYC. Running one day a week over eight weeks, the program takes place offsite and offers students a unique opportunity to develop essential life skills in a fun, supportive, and hands-on environment. 

Each week, students engage in a range of adventurous and therapeutic activities designed to build confidence, resilience, and teamwork. Experiences include the opportunity for rock climbing, archery, and even equine therapy as well as hearing from inspirational guest speakers. 

The program provides students with the opportunity to step outside their comfort zones and grow through these experiences. It not only supports their personal development but also strengthens their relationships and sense of self. 

With the program still underway, the excitement continues to build each week. We look forward to celebrating the students’ achievements at the end of the program and seeing how these valuable experiences shape their learning journey. 

Mrs Anita Price

Assistant Principal

Assembly Wednesday 27th August

Our school assembly being held on Wednesday 27th August will begin at an earlier time of 2:00pm as we have lots of certificates and presentations. All parents, carers and guest are welcome and can sign in at the hall on arrival.

Student Wellbeing and Engagement Survey

School Opens at 8:30AM

Please sign in at the office if you are at school prior to 2:50pm

Reminder to Families and Carers

If you are at school before 2:50pm for any reason, you must report to the school office first. All adults on DECYP sites are required to sign in at the office and show their Working with Vulnerable People (WWVP) card before entering the school grounds or classrooms.

If you are collecting your child during the school day, this must be done via the school office. Parents and carers that do not hold a WWVP card are only permitted on school grounds before 3:00pm if accompanied by a Waverley Primary staff member.

If you are attending assembly in the hall you can sign in at the hall from 2:15pm. 

From 3:00pm onwards, parents and carers may enter the school grounds to collect their children without needing to sign in via the office.

Thank you for supporting the safety of all students.

Early Years Programs 2025

Hot Lunch Program 2025

From the Nurses Desk

e-Safety Education

Technology is an integral part of our daily lives, so it is vital to prioritise the online safety of our children and young people. This helps them understand how to safely navigate the digital space. 

Here are some tips and resources to help you when considering e-safety for your children. 

⭐ Educate: Teach your children about the potential risks online, including cyberbullying and privacy concerns. Explain how to recognise suspicious behaviour and the steps they should take if they encounter something uncomfortable or threatening. Encourage them to think critically about the content they view and share, and the people they interact with online.  

For e-safety education resources designed for children, see Kids | eSafety Commissioner 

For resources designed for teens, see: Young People | eSafety Commissioner 

⭐ Monitor: Keep an eye on their online activities and use parental controls to set boundaries. Check out the Parental Control factsheet on the e-Safety Commissioner website for more details on steps you can take to improve e-safety through parental controls.  

⭐ Communicate: Encourage open discussions with your children about their online experiences and reassure them they can come to you with any issues. It is important to have ongoing conversations about digital safety – with the online landscape changing rapidly, children and young people are often the first to adopt these changes. Continually touching base on these topics allows you to monitor what is happening while also ensuring their safety. 

To find comprehensive info on e-safety, as well as some great links and resources, check out:  DECYP Staying Safe Online fact sheet  

Safeguarding Articles

Volunteer Requirements 2025

As we are well into the new school year, we want to remind our school community about the important requirements for volunteering at our school.

To ensure the safety and wellbeing of our students, it is mandatory for all volunteers to have their RWVP (Registration for Working with Vulnerable People) and to have completed the Your Obligations-Safeguarding training 15-minute video before engaging with children and young people in a volunteer capacity at our school. Certificates for the training video are valid for 12 months from the date of completion. These steps are essential in helping us maintain a safe and supportive environment for our children.

To apply for a Working with Vulnerable people, please visit the Service Tasmania website.

To complete the Your Obligations-Safeguarding Training 15-minute video please visit the DECYP website.

Volunteers are a vital part of our school community, and we are excited to collaborate with you the year ahead!

Working With Vulnerable People Registration

Parents and carers if you remain with your child in their classroom beyond school drop off, or volunteer for parent help, or would like to attend a school excursion we must see a copy of your registration card.  When you sign in at the office please enter your RWVP number.  

Reminder: all adults visiting our school must sign in at the office and wear a name badge.  

It is against the law for a person to work or volunteer at any DECYP School without a current working with vulnerable people registration. 

If you would like to volunteer at Waverley Primary School we would love to hear from you.  To apply for registration please follow the link below:

Staff Email

We believe that communication between families and staff is crucial in building relationships. You are welcome to speak with teachers face to face before or after school.  The school office can book an appointment or pass on a message.  You can visit the school office in person or phone: 6339 1455.  

2025 Staff Contact Information

Professional Support Staff 2025

Communication

Newsletter access

Please note the following information: 

Schoolzine SZapp and our Text message service are our main source of communication. 

The newsletter is published every second Wednesday through Schoolzine and can be viewed through the SZapp.   

The Waverly Primary School Facebook page is a great way to stay informed about what is happening in and around our school. 

Attendance

At Waverley Primary students attendance and safety are high priorities.  If your child is absent or late please phone our school office ph: 6339 1455 or send a note via the SZapp.  All lateness and absence must be explained.  This is a legal requirement by the Department for Education Children and Young People.  

An SMS text message will be automatically sent to the mobile phones of parents/carers explaining that our records show that your child is absent from school.   

The message will arrive on the phone displaying the number: 0407 580 106. Please save this number as ‘WPS Absentee’ so that when the message arrives you are aware is has come from our school.   

You can reply to the text to explain the absence please add: your child’s name, reason they are absent or late.   

Messages from you to school

To ensure your messages are received and actioned in a timely manner and without error, please use the following:

• Absentee notifications - Enter details using the SZapp by 9:00am to notify the office of student absence.
• End of day messages - Send a message using the SZapp or call 63391455 before 2:30pm.
• Queries and other messages - Send a message using the SZapp or email waverley.primary@decyp.tas.gov.au
• Uniform & icecream/icypole orders - Order and pay on the Qkr! app

We endeavour to respond to enquiries within 2 business days during school terms.

Messages from us to you

In an effort to reduce our carbon footprint, we will push information out to you via the SZapp.  It is very important that all of our parents have signed up to the Schoolzine app to receive notices and information. 

If you require assistance in setting up or using the SZapp or the Qkr! app, please contact the office. 

School Association

Committee Meetings

The School Association is made up of the parents, staff and community members of a school. The School Association is an important part of the school, working with the Principal to achieve shared outcomes for learners and for the whole school community.  

The School Association Committee is an elected group of members that work together for the benefit of the school. The Committee manages and conducts the affairs of the School Association and performs administrative and decision-making tasks on behalf of the School Association. 

Parent participation on our Committee is highly valued.  We meet on the third Tuesday each month, excluding school holidays, from 1:40-2:50pm.

Ms Caitlyn Olding

Chairperson

Uniform

A reminder to please ensure your child(ren) are dressed in school uniform for their day at school. Our school has very high expectations for our school uniform and many visitors to our school give extremely positive feedback about how smart our students look. We ask that any long sleeves under polo tops are gold keep to with our school colours. We ask that students please wear black trackpants/trousers or shorts. 

A reminder that our Waverley Primary School jackets are great for an extra layer over a school jumper. Uniform items can be purchased at the main office or through our Qkr! app, with items being delivered to students within a day. 

Please note: branded leggings and very short hot pant style shorts are not part of our school uniform.

Ice Cream Sales

A reminder that we have ice cream sales on a Monday at lunch time.  All proceeds support our Year 6 celebration activities.  You can order your ice cream or icy pole on the Qkr! app or you can bring cash on the day.

Important Dates

4/5/6 Sport Roster

Allergy Aware

We are an allergy aware school.  We discourage the use and consumption of nuts and nut products as well as eggs and egg products. 

Move Well Eat Well

A reminder to everyone that we do not bring energy drinks to school.  

Community Notices