In our classrooms

Dear GIPS Community,

As we come to the end of a busy and rewarding Term 2, I would like to thank our students, staff, and families for the dedication and enthusiasm you’ve brought to learning this semester. It has been a term full of growth, perseverance, and community spirit.

Semester Reports Available This Afternoon

This afternoon, Semester 1 reports will be available via Compass. These reports offer insights into your child’s academic progress and learning behaviours across the first half of the year. Please note that the Victorian Curriculum in Mathematics has changed in 2025. More explanation on how this impacts your child's report is available via Compass.

While reading the report with your child, here are a few ways to make it a positive and meaningful experience:

• Celebrate effort as well as achievement – Acknowledge the hard work your child has put in, regardless of the marks.

• Ask reflective questions – “What are you most proud of?”, “What did you find challenging?”, “What’s something new you learned this term?” "What would you like to try differently next term?" or "How can we support you at home?"

• Set gentle goals together – If there are areas for development, work together to choose one or two small goals for next term.

As shared in previous newsletters, information about Parent Teacher Conferences will be shared early next term. These conversations will offer a valuable opportunity to further discuss your child’s progress and learning goals.

Wishing all families a safe, restful, and happy break. We look forward to welcoming students back on Monday 21 July, refreshed and ready for Term 3.

Warm regards,
Maddie Witter
Principal – Glen Iris Primary School

In our prep classrooms

Over the last few weeks, Prep students have welcomed local firefighters from the Malvern Road Fire Station to school. During the first session, students learned about fire safety, including the difference between good and bad fires, the “crawl down low, go, go, go” technique for when there is smoke in the house and explored the firefighters' uniforms and protective gear.

In their follow-up visit, students had the chance to sit in the fire truck, spray the hose, and check out real firefighting tools. Midway through the session, the firefighters were called out to a real emergency! We even got to hear the siren! They came right back though, and we got to finish learning about firefighters. A big thank you from the Preps for our local firefighters!

In our grade one classrooms

In Grade One, we have been having lots of fun exploring patterns. Here are some pattern caterpillars that we made with beads.

In our grade two classrooms

Students in Grade 2 have begun working through the Maths Quest program, run through the Australasian Problem-Solving Mathematical Olympiads. Maths Quest is designed to introduce and strengthen problem-solving concepts that can be applied throughout a range of mathematical areas. It encourages students to naturally reason and use creative strategies when they seek patterns and relationships that will enable them to solve challenging unfamiliar problems.

Grade 2 students will be focusing on ‘Finding All Possibilities’ in Term 3 and ‘Exploring Patterns’ in Term 4. They will use task cards, digital learning tools and classroom materials to help them understand mathematical concepts and problem-solving strategies. Lessons are differentiated so that all students can access the problem-solving strategy at their own point of need.

The kids in 2GJ have been investigating 3D shapes in Maths this week. Today we were detectives looking for 3D shapes in our everyday world. It was lots of fun!

In our grade three classrooms

To complete our studies on Solids, Liquids and Gases, Year Three students had a fun and engaging time making cloud dough! With just two simple ingredients, cornstarch and conditioner, students watched a physical change as the cornstarch absorbed the conditioner. This resulted in a soft texture which formed a mold-able dough.

In our grade four classrooms

Our Year 4 class took part in a special online session with Shelley Ware and an educator from the National Portrait Gallery to celebrate this year’s NAIDOC theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy. We learned about inspiring First Nations people through portraits and stories and talked about the importance of culture and history. During the session, we drew pictures of a special place where we feel safe and happy, and were encouraged to use Indigenous symbols to show what home and Country mean to us.

In our grade five and six classrooms

The Year 5/6 netball interschool sports teams have wrapped up their season! Both the mixed and girls teams are celebrating a job well done, as win or lose they worked together as a team, built up their netball skills, practised kind and fair sportsmanship and had fun! Well done netballers!

Student Voice and Agency- SALT Wellbeing

Laughing is important because it has powerful benefits for both mental and physical health. It reduces stress by lowering cortisol levels, boosts mood by triggering the release of endorphins, and even strengthens the immune system. Laughter also fosters social connection, helping people bond and build trust through shared moments of joy. On a physical level, it can improve circulation and relax muscles, offering a natural form of stress relief. In challenging times, laughter serves as a coping mechanism, helping people maintain perspective and resilience. To encourage more laughter and positivity within the school community, the SALT Wellbeing team have created a Joke Box for students to drop in their best jokes, which will be read out during assembly for everyone to enjoy.

In Performing Arts

The last two weeks of Performing Arts have been absolutely incredible – the students have been trying out a bunch of instruments in the classroom such as Glockenspiels and Ukuleles. The Grade 5 & 6 students used the school Drumkit and Keyboards as well as my Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, and Electric Bass to learn and rehearse Riptide by Vance joy. For many, this was their first time playing these instruments! The respect and gratitude shown by all the students during these sessions cannot be described with words – just like the sound of their rehearsals, it rocked!

In Physical Education

Last week, our Grade 5 and 6 students hit the court for an action-packed day of basketball at the annual Hoop Time competition—and what a day it was!

The event brought together schools from across the region for a day of sport, teamwork, and fun. Glen Iris Primary School was proudly represented by multiple teams, each made up of enthusiastic students who demonstrated fantastic sportsmanship and team spirit throughout the day.

Whether they were seasoned players or giving basketball a go for the first time, our students gave it their all. From exciting fast breaks to solid defensive plays, every team showed great determination and support for one another.

A special thank you to the staff, family members, and volunteers who helped with coaching, scoring, and cheerleading on the day—it truly takes a team effort to make events like this possible!

Congratulations to all our players for their outstanding effort, respectful behaviour, and positive attitude both on and off the court. We are incredibly proud of the way you represented Glen Iris Primary School.

Well done, Grade 5/6s!

Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC)

Next term, students in Grade 3-6 will have the opportunity to participate in the Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC). The AMC contains unique mathematical problems designed each year by leading educators and academics to challenge and extend students problem-solving skills.

The Australian Mathematics Competition is an optional activity. Students who register with the school to participate in the competition will complete the AMC at school, in test conditions. They will complete the competition paper online between Tuesday 5^th August – Thursday 7^th August with teacher supervision. Families who want to be involved will need to provide consent and payment of $9 via Compass by Tuesday 22^nd July. Please note that consent will not be available after this date.

A link if you need more information: https://www.amt.edu.au/amc

Shanae Hill, Learning Specialist

In our staffroom

Making the Most of Your Child’s Mid-Year Report

Previously I shared with you the work being done by our teachers to prepare mid-year reports for your child or children. As Maddie shared in her message at the top of this newsletter, families will soon receive these reports - a valuable snapshot of your child’s learning journey so far. For many parents and carers, reading a school report can bring a mix of pride, curiosity, and sometimes concern. So how can you respond in a way that supports your child’s growth and wellbeing?

Focus on strengths, effort and growth

School reports provide insight into both achievement and effort. Importantly, they highlight your child’s growth since the last report, celebrating specific learning achievements and offering guidance to help you better understand your child’s progress along a continuum of learning.

Reports today look very different from those in the past. I still remember my own school reports, which typically included a single grade and a brief, one-line comment. The top mark was A1—‘A’ for academic achievement and ‘1’ for attitude. I clearly recall my dismay (after always being scored a ‘1’!), where my attitude was scored at ‘2’ - it was for Geography, and it had the complete opposite effect to what I’m sure the teacher intended. I was in Year 7, 13 years old, and decided that if I was going to be given a 2, I may as well earn it with deliberate inattention! For context, I was a compliant, introverted child who didn’t want to get anything wrong. I received high marks without having to try too hard, so the experience was entirely new. Eventually my parents were called up to the school, where the teacher explained the reasoning: I hadn’t been contributing to class discussions by putting up my hand. I often reflect on how different my response might have been if this was communicated at the time I received the grade.

Thankfully, reports today provide a much fuller picture of each child’s learning journey, highlighting strengths, effort, growth and areas for development.

Research tells us that recognising a child’s effort is crucial for building motivation and resilience. As Dr Andrew Martin, educational psychologist at UNSW, reminds us: “When parents praise effort and persistence over natural ability, children are more likely to embrace challenges and see setbacks as part of learning.” Look for areas where your child has shown dedication or improvement—even if the grades aren’t as high as you might have hoped. Comments about classroom behaviour, participation and collaboration are just as important as academic results.

Your first reaction matters. According to The Australian Council for Educational Research, how parents respond to school reports can significantly shape a child’s confidence and attitude towards learning. Rather than focusing solely on results, try asking:

• What are you most proud of in your report?
• What would you like to try differently next term?
• How can we support you at home?

This opens meaningful conversations and helps children reflect on their own learning.

Remember, no single report can capture all the wonderful qualities your child brings to school each day. Reports are just one tool for understanding progress—and every child’s learning path is unique. As we review mid-year reports, let’s focus on encouragement, growth, and the exciting possibilities the remainder of the year holds.

Term 3 – Curriculum

Each term, our teaching teams design a focus unit that will engage their specific student cohorts in Curriculum from the Humanities/Science fields. Links to Literacy and Numeracy are fostered where appropriate, as are the opportunities to build learning capabilities as both individuals and when collaborating with others. In Term Three, your child will have the opportunity to delve into the following content areas.

When planning these units to guide student learning, our teachers utilise the Victorian Curriculum F-10 (V2.0), with a specific focus next term on Science, History or Geography.

Victorian Curriculum F–10 (Version 2.0) – What It Is

Most Victorian government and Catholic schools, including Glen Iris Primary School, use the Victorian Curriculum F–10 as the foundation for student learning. Our educators use this framework to design meaningful and engaging learning units that support each student’s growth.

The Victorian Curriculum F–10 (V2.0) outlines what students should learn during their first 11 years of schooling. It provides a clear, consistent structure that supports teaching, assessment and reporting, while also allowing flexibility to meet the diverse needs and interests of learners.

This curriculum sets out the essential knowledge and skills students need for lifelong learning, personal development, and active, informed citizenship. The latest updates reflect national priorities and insights from Victorian educators, helping ensure the curriculum remains relevant, rigorous, and responsive.

Learning History – Making Sense of the Past and Present

In History, students investigate people, events and places from the past to better understand the world they live in today. They explore a wide range of perspectives—from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories to ancient civilisations and global cultures—and learn how these stories shape our shared experience.

Rather than simply memorising facts, students develop skills in questioning, analysing evidence, recognising change over time, and communicating ideas. They also learn that history can be interpreted in different ways, helping them think critically and with empathy.

Through these rich learning experiences, students gain a deeper understanding of themselves, others, and the society they’re part of—preparing them to be thoughtful and informed citizens.

Science – Exploring How Our World Works

Science taps into children’s natural curiosity, encouraging them to explore, ask questions, and investigate the world around them. It helps them make sense of how and why things happen—whether they’re looking at natural events, new technologies, or global issues.

Through hands-on learning and inquiry, students develop key scientific understandings, practise problem-solving, and learn how to think critically and creatively. They explore real-world questions, test ideas, and draw conclusions based on evidence.

Science learning also highlights the impact science has on our lives, from health and the environment to innovation and discovery. Whether working independently or as part of a team, students are building skills they can take into future learning and a wide range of career pathways.

Geography – Understanding People, Places and the Planet

In Geography, students explore how people, places and environments are connected. They investigate local and global issues such as sustainability, urban growth, water use, and human impact on the environment.

Key concepts—like place, space, environment and interconnection—help students make sense of the world and the challenges we face. Through inquiry, fieldwork and the use of maps and digital tools, students develop skills in observation, problem-solving and critical thinking.

Geography encourages students to value cultural diversity, care for the planet, and take informed, ethical action. It helps them understand their role in shaping a fairer and more sustainable future.

In parting, I send the warmest wishes to you and your family, hoping that the mid-year break provides lots of rest and a slower pace than you have needed during the term. I always loved the school holidays when my children were at that age. I knew the importance of spending quality time with them when life was busy and schedules jam-packed, however there was something exquisitely delightful in finding quantity time in each other’s company as well. Enjoy!

Kindest Regards,

Lisa Gough

In our community

GIPS says farewell to Maggie as she starts a new phase in her life. On behalf of the school, we would like to thank Maggie for her fantastic leadership, positivity, and partnership with our school.

School Council Update

Your School Council held our 4th meeting of the year last week. Here’s what you need to know:

We had an early look at the latest NAPLAN data and Attitude to Schools Survey data. The results of these are very positive overall. Maddie and her team are carefully working through this large amount of helpful data, as inputs to the school’s strategic plan and ongoing continuous improvement, so expect to hear more about this later in the year.

Our financial position is stable, allowing us to plan ahead for improvements. Thanks again to every family who paid their fees, as having family contributions bounce back to historically strong levels is key to our ability to Aim High. The School Savings Bonus has been a cumbersome manual process for the school to administer, so thank you for your patience and partnership as the office works through it all. We also discussed options for how to replace our ageing iPad fleet in the most cost-effective yet inclusive way; and ways to attract sponsors from local businesses to support our school.

We approved a change to the uniform top to start from 2026, in response to feedback about how the yellow tops stain easily. The Student Representative Council had already endorsed Deb McDermott’s proposed alternative, with more purple and a better-quality fabric. We will of course have a multi-year transition period, so you can still get good wear out of any yellow tops you’ve recently purchased.

For Buildings & Grounds: we approved quotes for painting and carpeting for the next set of selected classrooms; celebrated the completion of the Inclusive Playground works; and were updated on the great gardening efforts underway that will continue through spring thanks to our wonderful parent volunteers. We are also liaising with Boroondara Council about ways to improve our kiss’n’go parking and signage, so we share these spaces effectively and every child gets to school safely.

We reviewed and approved plans for two upcoming community and fundraising events: the Main Event on 30 August (including the Silent Auction with some amazing prizes!) and the Father’s Day event on 5 September. Sincere thanks to the parent volunteers leading each of these - what a fabulous team effort. Please save the dates and get along to these events!

Jacqui Williamson, School Council reporter

Raising Healthy Minds App

Do you have a question about your child’s emotions, behaviours and wellbeing?
The Raising Healthy Minds app is a FREE, personalised pocket resource
to help you raise confident, resilient children.

Co-designed with parents and experts and funded by the Australian
Government, the app offers a mix of quick-read articles, videos and
animations designed to support your child’s social and emotional
wellbeing from birth to age 12.

Autism Workshop for Parents

Join Our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Working Group

At Glen Iris Primary School, we are committed to deepening our understanding and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, and contributions. One way we do this is through our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). A RAP is a formal commitment to reconciliation. It outlines practical actions the school can take to build respectful relationships and create meaningful opportunities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We warmly invite interested parents and carers to join our RAP Working Group, which brings together our community to guide and implement this important work. Whether you're new to reconciliation or already passionate about it, your voice and perspective are valued.

Meeting Dates – 2025 Thursdays after school

Term 3: 7 August and 4 September

Term 4: 23 October and 20 November

If you’re interested in joining or would like to learn more, please email glen.iris.ps@education.vic.gov.au attention Peter McClure. We would love to have you involved as we continue this journey together.

Crayola grant received

Congratulations to 1W who won a grant for Crayola art and classroom supplies! Thank you to Seritie who helped share the news at assembly on Friday.

Friends of PE Working Group

We are collecting expressions of interest to join the Friends of PE Working Group. This is a parent committee that will formally meet four times per year. The purposes of the group include

- discussing ways to support GIPS parents with Sporting School Victoria

- discussing ways to engage parent volunteers prior to big sporting events (i.e. cross country, athletics, etc.) to coordinate opportunities for students to further practice and prepare

If you are interested in joining this working group, please email the front office at glen.iris.ps@education.vic.gov.au attention Friends of PE Working Group

Silent Auction Items Needed

Our Term 3 Silent Auction is one of the school’s biggest fundraisers—and we need your help to make it a success!

We’re looking for donations, big or small, to auction off and raise vital funds that directly support our children’s education.

Do you - or someone you know - have something to contribute? We're especially looking for:

• Stays at holiday homes
• Sporting or other memorabilia
• High-value vouchers
• Artwork or photography
• Services, products, or unique experiences

All donations are welcome and truly appreciated. Every item helps us reach our fundraising goal!

To donate or learn more, please speak with Lou O’Donnell or Cass Golten in person, or email us at gipsparentsassoc@gmail.com.

Thank you for your ongoing support!

Warm regards,

Cass and Lou