Dear Chevallum Family,
As we step into a new term here at Chevallum SS, I am delighted to reflect on our recent successes during NAIDOC week and to reaffirm our commitment to the wellbeing of our school community.
Thank you to all the families who responded to my communication survey. I will be sharing the results at our P&C meeting this Wednesday and we will discuss future implications for the community.
Firstly, I want to extend my gratitude to all students, teachers, and staff who made NAIDOC week a resounding success. The celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures was not only educational but also deeply enriching for all involved. It was heartening to see our students engage with the activities and learn about the rich history and traditions of Australia's First Nations peoples. This experience serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and respect within our school ethos. I have attached my speech below following a parent request following our recent parade.
Moving forward into the cooler months, it is crucial to prioritise our wellbeing, both physical and mental. As the temperatures drop, it becomes more challenging to maintain good health. I encourage everyone to take proactive steps to stay healthy. This includes dressing warmly, staying hydrated, and maintaining a balanced diet. Simple precautions can prevent common illnesses associated with colder weather and ensure that our students are able to attend classes regularly and participate fully in school activities. There are a lot of lonely jumpers being located around the school. I would ask all parents to label their child(ren)s belongs so that we can return them to the correct owners.
Additionally, mental wellbeing is equally important. Starting a new term can sometimes bring about feelings of excitement as well as anxiety. Our school support staff are here to provide guidance and assistance to students who may need extra support during this transition period. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you or your child needs help. Our incredible Guidance Officer Ian Johnson has been instrumental in supporting our amazing school.
As always, communication between home and school is vital. If you have any concerns or questions, please feel free to contact us. Together, we can ensure that every student at Chevallum SS has a positive and productive learning experience.
The Appreciation of Arts at Chevallum
Art is not just a subject at Chevallum State School; it is a vibrant tapestry that weaves through our curriculum, enriching the lives of our students and fostering creativity and self-expression in remarkable ways. As I reflect on the past term, it is clear that our commitment to the arts has not only enriched our school environment but has also contributed significantly to the holistic development of our students. Recently I shared in a staff meeting that I have never seen such amazing example of the arts in my 14 years as a principal.
At Chevallum, we believe that every child has an innate creativity waiting to be nurtured. Our dedicated team of art educators goes above and beyond to ensure that all students have the opportunity to explore and excel in various artistic disciplines. From painting to sculpture, from digital art to performance, our students are encouraged to discover their unique talents and develop a deep appreciation for the arts. This is evident in the culminating activities but also in every classroom nearly every day.
One of the cornerstones of our approach to art education is inclusivity. We firmly believe that art should be accessible to all students, regardless of their background or prior experience. Our teachers work tirelessly to create a supportive and encouraging environment where every student feels empowered to express themselves artistically. Whether it's through individual projects, collaborative efforts, or culminating exhibitions, our students are given the platform to showcase their creativity and celebrate their achievements.
Throughout the year, our school has been fortunate to witness countless moments of artistic brilliance and personal growth. From the colourful murals adorning our hall to the thought-provoking installations in our yawning circle, art has truly transformed our school into a vibrant and inspiring space.
In closing, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our dedicated art educators for their passion and commitment. Their tireless efforts have made a profound impact on the lives of our students and have helped shape Chevallum State School into a community where creativity thrives.
Proud Acting Principal - Craig Hazen