UPCOMING EVENTS DATE EVENT THURSDAY 19TH North District

UPCOMING EVENTS
MARCH/APRIL
DATE
EVENT
THURSDAY 19TH
North District Sport Soccer boys/girls 12&U
FRIDAY 20TH
Aspley Open Day
SATURDAY 21ST
BBQ Fundraiser Bunnings
MONDAY 23RD
Assembly- Go-Sports
Harmony Day
North District Sport Tennis boys/girls 12&U
TUESDAY 24TH
"125" Committee Meeting
THURSDAY 26TH
North District Sport Rugby League boys
11/12&U
FRIDAY 27TH
Yr 3-6 Cross Country
MONDAY 30TH - WEDNESDAY 1ST
APRIL
Year 4 Parent Teacher Interviews
WEDNESDAY 1ST APRIL
96.5FM Broadcasting LIVE from 6am
Assembly- Active School Travel Cheer Squad
Whole School Fundraising Activity
PAYMENTS DUE
ACTIVITY
ACTION REQUIRED
Year 6 Graduation Shirts
Payment Due 20th March
ICAS Competitions
Payment Due 20th March
"125" Sponsorship Forms- Obstacle Course
Money Due 20th March
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
RETIREMENTS
It is with very mixed emotions that I advise you of the retirement of Mr George Pentis and Ms Lynette Harrington. Mr Pentis and Ms
Harrington have announced to me their intention to retire at the end of this term.
Both of these staff members will be greatly missed by all of our school community. To celebrate the distinguished careers of Mr Pentis
and Ms Harrington we will be holding a very special assembly on 30 March 2015. We welcome the school community to come along to
our school hall for this assembly commencing at 8:45am.
I have advertised for teachers on the Qld Government Smart Jobs Website. After we have completed the recruitment process I will be
able to advise you of who will be taking 5P and 2H for the remainder of 2015.
I’m sure you will join with me in congratulating Mr Pentis and Ms Harrington on their retirement.
GLAD TO BE BACK
I am very glad to be back on deck after what can only be described as a frustrating couple of weeks. Despite being
poked and prodded, scanned and analysed by a number of specialists there was no clear medical reason for my
recent blackout. The upside of that of course is that there is nothing really bad to be concerned about.
I am so grateful and humbled by the support from our school community. Mrs Platts saw me walking home from
one of my scans and picked me up. My lovely wife taken numerous periods off work to take me into town and I
have received many cards and well wishes from our beautiful kids.
Once again I am reminded that I work with such a wonderful and dedicated team of professionals who ensured
that everything kept on track over the past four weeks. They didn’t drop the ball and kept juggling the enormous
amount of agendas we continue to manage in our great school. Thanks to Brendan and Christine for their
wonderful leadership and focus in the office during my absence. They are amazing professionals whom I have huge
respect for. They did an amazing job in maintaining all the agendas we are currently running.
QPARENTS
QParents is live and available for Aspley Parents. The uptake from our parents has been great. Parents of over 100
of our students are now able to view and print previous report cards, pay school invoices, provide absence data
and view contact information. They can even make changes to this at their convenience. Never before have
parents had 24/7 access to this information and Aspley State School is one of the first schools in the state to offer
this to parents.
I would encourage all parents to take advantage of the convenience of being able to access your child’s
information when you need it. Especially those who will soon be seeking admission to high schools and need to
provide previous report cards. How convenient will it be to access your child's information and get your application
in early without having to wait for the office to re-print old reports.
This week we will be sending home paper invitations to those who have not yet registered. I cannot stress to you
enough how convenient having this access will be for you as a parent. Especially paying for excursions and other
school activities. You will be able to choose the invoice you wish to pay and pay it directly through QParents at
your convenience. No more lost invoices mixed up with the rotting apple at the bottom of the school bag.
If you have any questions or need help registering please contact Annie Duffy or email
[email protected]
P&C AGM
It was great to see many new faces at the P&C AGM last night. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the
members of the 2014 P&C Association for the hard work, dedication and support for our school. 2014 was again a
wonderful year with the P&C providing over $84,000 in financial support to our school. Thanks to this support we
were able to continue our technology program, complete projects like the new tiered seating on the oval, adding
internal steps to the sound and lighting box at the hall, air-condition another 9 classrooms as well as construct the
trophy cabinet inside the hall, just to name a few.
A very special thank you to Anthony Jones (2014 President) and Alan Smith (2014 Secretary) for their many years
of service to our school in executive positions with the P&C. Both gentlemen have concluded their involvement
with the school due to their children completing their education at Aspley. Both Anthony and Alan have worked
tirelessly in their executive positions to maintain a brilliant and supportive P&C organisation that turns over in
excess of a quarter of a million dollars annually. Your legacy will be long felt and enjoyed by the students and staff
at Aspley State School.
Congratulations and thank you to the incoming P&C executive for 2015:
President – Mrs Victoria Edwards
Vice President – Mr BrendenMcClennan
Secretary – Mrs Alice Long
Treasurer – Mr Danny Power
STRATEGIC PLAN 2016-2019
Aspley State Primary School has embarked on a strategic planning process with a view to preparing a comprehensive 2016 –
2019 year plan to guide the future direction of the School. The School has engaged Strategy1st, a Brisbane-based consulting
firm, to assist us with this task.
Essential to the success of this project, will be the inclusion of the school community in the development of this plan. We
intend to include parents, staff and students in the process as well as giving consideration to inviting education and
government representatives and business partners of the School.
Grant O'Hara of Strategy1st will facilitate the project which formally commences in March 2015 and should conclude by
October this year. The process will include one-on-one interviews, plus parent, staff and student forums and major and miniworkshops with key leaders within our School. Suffice to say the process will be comprehensive and I invite everyone’s
involvement. Please be advised that a ‘community strategic plan survey’ will also form an essential element of the process.
Additionally, invitations to the first forum will be sent to parents this week. If you would really like to be involved please
contact Annie Duffy.
This is a critical project for the School and one which will clearly set our ‘vision’ and ‘future direction.’ This ultimately will
place us in the best position to offer optimum opportunities for our students.
If you have any queries on the process, I invite you to give me a call on 38639111.
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL'S NEWS
Sunshine Classics Online
In the last issue of the newsletter, we outlined the Sunshine Classics Online initiative. A reminder for those students invited to participate
that we require your permission forms and payment to be returned to the office to secure your place.
We have extended the closing date to Monday 23 March.
HARMONY DAY
Harmony Day is celebrated on the 21 March each year. As this falls on a weekend, our school will be
celebrating Harmony Day on Monday 23 March at a special assembly.
On this day Australians celebrates our cultural diversity. Harmony Day is focussed on inclusiveness,
respect and a sense of belonging for all Australians.
At Aspley State School, amongst our students and staff, we celebrate 55 different cultures .
Active School Travel - Interclass competition
As discussed in the last newsletter, we have started an interclass competition for Active Travel where the
winner each week is presented with the AST star trophy on assembly.
The class award for week 6 was 4B. The winning teacher award went to Mr Grove.
The week 7 award went to 4F and the teacher award went to Mr Pentis.
It is great to see the lift in the number of students travelling actively to school over the past few weeks and
the competition is a close race each week.
One student can make all the difference!
Aspley 125 Obstacle Course fundraiser
The Aspley State School P&C Association will be conducting a major Fundraiser for this Semester, the Aspley 125
Obstacle Course on Wednesday 1 April 2015.
This event will include a Fundraising Obstacle Course for Years Prep – Year 6 during school time on the day,
following the 96.5FM Breakfast Team’s outside broadcast from 6am to 9am.
All funds raised by the Aspley 125 Obstacle Course will provide the P&C (and in turn, the school) with additional
financial resources to expand the air conditioning of classrooms, so we are seeking your support of this initiative.
Students have received a Sponsorship Form with a selection of over 70 prizes to choose from such as Sony, iPod
Shuffles, Wahu, Razor, Nerf and more. The list of prizes can be viewed in the attached Sponsorship Form.
We ask you to seek donations to support your student/s participation in the Obstacle Course which in turn supports
the school’s aims of air conditioning additional classrooms. Due to the costs involved with the third party online
fundraising, it has been decided that all fundraising will be completed offline and sent to the office by the due date.
Students who raise as little as $10 in donations will be entitled to a prize of their choice (refer to the Sponsorship
Form for more information). The more donations you receive, the more prizes you can choose from. You can even
mix and match your prizes inside each prize category!
Date claimer: Please return your completed Sponsorship Form and funds collected to the School Office no later than
Friday 20 March 2015. Please be sure to fill out your prize request. The individual prizes will be delivered to the
School during Term 2.
We also welcome parents and family members to attend the Aspley 125 Obstacle Course to help cheer on their
students, noting that at the completion of their participation all students will return to their classrooms to continue
their learning.
We acknowledge the wonderful support of Holt Fitness and the Holt Bolt Kids in the staging of this event.
Thank you in advance of your participation. Happy fundraising!
Obstacle Course Timetable
* Please note the Oval is closed during both breaks on Wednesday 1 April 2015 *
11.40am
Year 6
12.00pm
Year 5
12.20pm
Year 4
12.40pm
Year 3
1.50pm
Year 2
2.10pm
Year 1
2.30pm
Prep Year
- It would be appreciated if Year Levels could be on the Oval steps approx. 10 minutes before their
designated time, so that students have a full 15 minutes on the course.
- Students are required to wear their Sports House colours on the day of this event. Colours for each
house are Mitchell (Blue), Oxley (Red) and Kennedy (Yellow).
- Parents are most welcome to attend to support their students participate .
QPARENTS IS HERE
Have You Registered?
Our school now has QParents. Parents should have received an invitation email or letter by now and it’s great to see that so many parents
have registered already.
For those who have yet to sign up, remember that for a chance to win an iPhone 6, you must register by 19 April.
If you have not received an invitation, please advise us immediately.
Over time, QParents will become an integral part of how we communicate with parents. Get on board now to enjoy the ease and
convenience that QParents offers.
Refund Guidelines For Excursions, Camps And Activities
At Aspley State School, we are committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for students, staff and
volunteers. This commitment includes the health and safety of staff and students when conducting curriculum activities in the
school or in other locations.
School excursions and camps enhance a student’s learning by providing opportunities for the student to participate in activities,
both curriculum-related and recreational, outside the normal school routine. All planned school excursions are approved by the
Principal and endorsed by the Parents and Citizens Association.
State schools are able to charge a fee for:
1.
An educational service including materials and consumables not defined as instruction, administration and facilities for the
education of the student;
2.
An education service purchased from a provider other than the school where the provider charges the school; and
3.
A specialised educational program.
A school fee is directed to the purpose for which it is charged.
School fees for excursions and camps are calculated on a cost recovery only basis, according to the number of students who
have indicated their attendance.
Participation of students in an excursion or camp is indicated through payment of the excursion or camp fee and provision of a
permission form completed by the parent/carer.
As the school budget cannot meet any shortfalls in funding for an excursion or camp due to the subsequent non-participation of
a student who had previously indicated attendance of the activity, fees already paid for an excursion or school camp may be
refunded in full or in part or not at all, having regard to the associated expenses incurred and the circumstances of the nonparticipation.
If a parent/carer wishes to apply for a refund due to their child’s non-participation in an excursion or camp activity, they
may do so by completing a Request for Refund form available from the school office. Where possible, the request should
include the receipt relating to the payment for which a refund is being sought.
It is preferred that refunds be made as a credit against the student’s account at the school, and used for any cost in the
future.
Department of Education and Training policy references:
Education (General Provisions) Act 2006
SCM-PR-002: School Excursions
FNM-PR-019: State Education Fees
MUSIC DEPARTMENT NEWS
MUSIC NEWS
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC STUDENT RESOURCE SCHEME
A reminder to all Instrumental Music families that the 2015 Instrumental Music Student Resource Scheme payments were due by last
Friday 13th March 2015. Outstanding payments are to be paid to the school office as soon as possible. The Instrumental Music Student
Resource Scheme includes a payment of $40 per student per year (regardless of how many instruments learnt) and $80 per school loan
instrument. Failure to make this payment will result in the withdrawal of your child from this program. We value your support and with it,
we look forward to your student enjoying, and achieving success in the program.
WICKED – WOW!!
Mrs McIntyre and Ms Jabs had the wonderful opportunity to take 76 lucky Instrumental Music Students and Choralists to experience the
amazing musical Wicked last Wednesday 11th March. We had a marvellous time & as music teachers, it was so special to see our children
enjoying every moment, being inspired & giving the performers a standing ovation at the end of the performance! Congratulations to all on
a wonderful excursion.
Student’s reviewsMalachi Wrigley
Seventy-six very lucky Aspley State School students, Mrs McIntyre, Miss Jabs, Mrs Boardman and Mrs Rossiter had the opportunity to see
a very AWESOME musical called “WICKED” at the Lyric Theatre QPAC on the 11 th March 2015. There were lots of “Ooooohhh’s”,
“Aaaaahhhh’s” throughout the whole production with a well-deserved standing ovation. You just couldn’t take your eyes away from the
stage, every moment was wickedly amazing!!!
The outfits were well made and bright in colour just as eye catching as Elphaba’s green skin. Elphaba known as the Wicked Witch of the
West is one of the main characters and you can’t help but feel sorry for her as her story unfolds. However at the same time you really get to
like her especially when she turns up to the ball and does her uncool weird dance. The other main characters is her frenemyGalinda the
very laugh out loud funny, blonde, rich and popular roommate, who also becomes her best friend and the good witch. Everything from the
singing, dancing, story and stage set was over the top wickedly awesome! Five star rating all around! It’s a must see experience!!!
Elizabeth Buckle
Wicked was totally wicked! There were lots of smoke and special affects at the lovey musical. My favourite part was when they played
through their life time. It was really funny when Glender tried to show the Wicked Witch of the West how to be popular. She actually
copied her. As other people say, she was being Glenderfied! I also liked the part where the dragon moved its head. Every time this
happened the Wicked Witch was doing something. For example chanting a spell on a monkey making it grow wings!!! At the end we
found out the Wicked Witch of the West was Glenda’s best friend. I really liked this!!!!
ASPLEY CHORAL PROGRAM
METROPOLITAN REGION HONOURS CHORAL HONOURS PROGRAM 2015
CONGRATULATIONS – MEHELIBASU & TAYLA DOOLEY
Congratulations to MeheliBasu and Tayla Dooley upon their acceptance into the Metropolitian Region Honours Choral Music Program for
2015. This three day program, held next week, is designed to cater for advanced choral students in years 5, 6 and 7 and offers the
opportunity for talented young musicians and choralists to participate in one of two different choirs under renowned choral directors Jenny
Moon and Tim Sherlock, as well as a range of other musicians and accompanists. We wish these students the best of luck & we hope you
have a wonderful time.
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC NEWS
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC – Woodwind/Brass/Percussion
Please note that there will be temporary changes to the Woodwind/Brass/Percussion timetable whilst Ms Jabs is currently on leave. All
students received a copy of this temporary timetable on Monday 16 th March 2015 after assembly.
Senior Concert Band rehearsal and Senior Instrumental Music Lessons will be changed for this week only from Wednesday 18th March
2015 to Friday 20th March 2015 with Mrs Van Gaalen.
Instrumental Music Lesson Timetable –
Mrs. Van Gaalen
TEMPORARY
MONDAY
16 Mar
23 Mar
Monday 8.45am
NCT
NCT
Monday 9.15am
L
K
Monday 9.45am
M
L
Monday 10.15am
N
M
Monday 11.30am
O
N
Monday 12pm
P
O
Monday 12.30pm
K
P
Monday 2pm
A
A
Monday 2.30pm
B
B
FRIDAY
20 Mar
Wed 8 – 8.45am
Snr. Band
Wed 8.45am
NCT
Wed 9.15am
F
Wed 9.45am
G
Wed 10.15am
H
Wed 11.30am
I
Wed 12pm
C
Wed 12.30pm
D
Wed 2pm
E
th
rd
Monday 8 – 8.45am
Wed 2.30
th
Please note that ALL WOODWIND/BRASS/PERCUSSION LESSONS AND SENIOR CONCERT BAND WILL BE CANCELLED ON Wednesday 25 th
March
A reminder to all Instrumental Music Students (Woodwind/Brass/Percussion/Strings) that ALL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC LESSONS WILL
BE CANCELLED IN THE LAST WEEK OF THE SCHOOL TERM due to Ms Jabs and Ms Jerram attending the Craigslea State High School
Music Camp.
Happy Music Making
The Aspley Music Team
SPORTS DEPARTMENT NEWS
Aspley State School Cross Country (Grades 3-6)
Where: The park along Ben Lomond Street, Aspley
When: Friday 27th of March 2015
Transport: Students will walk down to the park in their classes with their classroom teacher.
Race Start Times 9 Years and Under 9.30am
10 Years
9.50am
(2KM)
11 Years 10.10am
(3KM)
12 Years 10.30am
(3KM)
(1KM)
Children who finish in the top 6 (10yrs or older) will represent Aspley State School at the North District
Cross Country on the 27th of April at Pine Rivers Park, Strathpine.
If there are any parents that would be able to assist by helping as a course marshal for the cross country
please contact Mr Schmidt by emailing [email protected]. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
North District Sports Trials
Any students that are turning 10 or older this year can request to attend a trial for a variety of sports. At
the moment there are trials in these following sports Boys Touch Football - trial date 30th of April 2015
Boys / Girls Tennis
- trial date 24th of March 2015
Boys/ Girls Soccer - trial date 19th of March 2015
If you would like your child to attend a trial please come and see Mr Schmidt to collect the required forms
etc.
LIBRARY NEWS
Library Team
We are very excited to announce our Library Team Captains, Julia Cavanough and Tara Denning. This is the first
time we have had Library Captains and for myself, the two captains and any other team members this will be an
exciting and challenging year.
Reader’s Challenge
We hope to have a few lunchtime activities related to reading, over the Year. The first of these is an Inter-Class
Reader’s Challenge. Students will be able to nominate in Class Teams to read a small selection of books and
compete against their own year level class teams to be the Premier team in that Year Level. We are running this for
Year 4, 5 & 6. Watch for the Posters around the school.
The nominations for most classes have been handed in, but it is not too late to get a class team together. Student
teams will start reading this week. Friday there will be a meeting in the Library at morning tea, to distribute books
and Team Booklets.
Library Times and Days
The Library is open every day, from 8.30am to approx. 3.15pm, for students and parents to come and borrow. Much
of the teaching day I am on class, however students may borrow during their class lesson time or during Morning
and Lunch Break times as well.
Class Library Days (Currently)
Monday
2C, 1/2M, 3C
Tuesday
1LM, 1DM, PD, PN, 3A
Wednesday
2B, 4F, PA, PS, 3F
Thursday
4F, 4B, 1B, 1M, 3N
Friday
2H, PM, 3O
Please ensure that your child brings their library bag on those days as well as their book to return.
Some Statistics:
We have just purchased over $600 worth of book resources to support the Curriculum and also student recreational
reading. These resources are currently being processed and will soon be available for borrowing.
To date we have processed more than 6300 loans and renewals to the school community. (That is an awful lot of
reshelving).
Magazines and Graphic Novels.
Recent purchases also include subscriptions to several children’s magazines. We have taken up the subscription
again for Wacky But True, Historicool, RSPCAAnimazing and the LEGO magazine. Some we are still awaiting our
first subscription issue.
Graphic novels have also been on the purchase list with quite a few folktales and other well known books in this
format.
Library Staff:
Hope Francis (Teacher-Librarian)
KirstyMcClymont (Teacher Aide – Mondays)
Rynel Evans, Bernice Thompson, Lynne Rossiter (Teacher-aides - Lunch duties)
KaitlynEdser (Volunteer –Tuesdays)
CHAPPY'S CORNER
School Chaplain Needs You!
School chaplains support young people in one of the most high pressure environments — the schoolyard.Today
there are about 580 “chappies” in over 800 schoolyards around Queensland.These chappies provide a safe and
supportive influence to our children.
It’s always been tough being a kid...Today, it’s even tougher.
Chappies are helping students deal with personal issues, like:
•
Self-image
•
Personal crises
•
Loneliness
•
Grief & loss
WHAT CHAPLAINS DO
•
Build positive relationships with students
Support at-risk students through
behaviour management programs
•
Support staff and families from the wider school community
•
Provide spiritual support and direction to the school community
•
Run activities, school breakfasts and
other programs for students
FAST FACTS ABOUT CHAPLAINS
•
800 Queensland schools have a chappy
•
60% of primary schools and
87% of high schools have a chappy
•
383,000 students have access to a chappy
•
Almost 78% of students have their own chappy
ABOUT SUQLD
•
SUQLD is an interdenominational
Christian organisation which has cared
for children and youth around the state
for over a hundred years.
•
SUQLD is the largest Christian youth and children’s not-for-profit organisation in Australia.
•
SUQLD aims to bring hope to a young generation through school chaplaincy, camps, at-risk youth
programs and training youth workers.
YOUR SUPPORT
The Federal Government’s National School Chaplaincy and Student Welfare Program
has been a great help, but it only covers
part of the funding needed to pay our chappies.
Your support can help keep chappies in schools... and continue to bring hope to a young generation
HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN DO
1. Give to your local school chaplaincy
program at donate.to.suqld.org.au
2. Become a regular donor using the form below.
3. Get involved in a Chappy Week activity
4. Volunteer to help your school chaplain
Chaplaincy Programs
Boys & Bikes
Boys and Bikes is a mentoring and nurturing program aimed at male children from Grade 3 to Grade 6, running from 3pm to 4pm Tuesday.
The program uses a child centered approach to empower and equip children to manage their emotions and overcome the challenges they
may face at school and in their personal lives. All the while learning practical skills on how to maintain and repair a push bike.
Boys and Bikes provides a supportive, safe and non-judgmental environment in which children can work through their problems and learn
to thrive.
Foundational Concept
Significance:
‘Body and Soul, I am Wonderfully made’
The focus is for each participant to understand for themselves that they are valuable, unique, one-of-a-kind and loved. Personal identity is
formed through embracing who you are and realising the potential within.
Funding and Resources:
This Program is entirely community funded and supported.
We are always in need of bikes (most conditions acceptable) and tools or funds to provide access theses resources.
Additionally we are always on the look out for suitable mentor's.
If you would like to help out please contact me through the school on a Tuesday or Wednesday or email me at [email protected].
Family Support
iSEE CARE HAMPERS
iSEE CARE is a non-profit organisation which operates locally within your school community. Each week iSEE CARE helps to support
school communities by providing food assistance hampers to families. Several grocery bags of non-perishable food items and toiletries are
delivered and distributed every week to your school during the term helping to supplement a family’s weekly groceries. iSEE CARE
understands that sometimes we find ourselves in tough situations and we all from time to time need a helping hand.
If you require one of these hampers please don't hesitate to contact Mr Kliendienst, Aspley SS Chaplain.
For more information on iSEE CARE and the services we provide please email us at [email protected]
Parenting From Michael Grose
Ways to Promote Good Mental Health & Well-Being in Kids
1.
Model Good Mental Health Habits.
PROBLEM SOLVING AT WAVELL HIGH
On Monday 9th March, twenty of our Year 5 and 6 students attended the Year 5-8 Problem Solving day at
Wavell High. The theme was "French" problem solving. Students were given maths, science and building
problems and asked to answer as many questions as possible in a given time frame. The final activity
was to build a free-standing tower with paddle pop sticks and sticky tape. On completion, children placed
the French flag on top. Points were received for correct answers and also for how high their tower was.
One of the Year 6 teams was runner-up in their age division, which was a fantastic effort. Students
reported that some of the questions were quite hard but they had a really good time.
YEAR 1/2 AND YEAR 2
Year 1/2 and Year 2 students built and held "Bugs" at an incursion on Tuesday 10th March. They had a great time learning
about bugs and then they were able to make their own. Here are a few recounts of their activities.
Build- A- Bug
On Tuesday the 10/3/2015 the whole class went to Build – A - Bug. We looked at dead bugs and we even
saw a Rhinoceros Beetle. Then we got to hold a stick insect, it tickled! The teacher said it was trying to
find a branch on our hand!
I had a good time there.
Tahlia Hicks 2C
Build- A- Bug
At a little place at the library, my class and I went to Build –A – Bug. We saw bugs and even held one!
Then we built awesome bugs. Mine was an alien! Then we had to go back and on the way Angus and I
played with them.
I loved Build – A –Bug, I hope it is on next year.
Dylan Hassell 2H
Build- A- Bug
On Tuesday March 10 our class went to Bug-Ed. Firstly Lani showed us bugs and how they protect
themselves. Then we all had a bug in a brick thing. I got a butterfly. Then we saw real live bugs. I didn’t
want to hold a stick insect. We also built a bug.
It was really fun. I wish I could go again.
MillianiRushe 2B
BugsEd Visit
by Max Molloy 1/2M
Last Tuesday Dr Lani came to our classroom to talk about bug life cycles.
First Dr Lani showed the whole class a slideshow about modern and primitive insects.
After that Dr Lani showed the class her insect collection. She let us pat a Rhinoceros Beetle. Dr Lani showed the class a
Praying Mantis and a Goliath Stick Insect. She showed us insects in resin and then we held a Titan Stick Insect.
Finally Dr Lani gave us an activity book with a stick insect in a vial. She even gave us a magnifying glass and some forceps.
When my stick insect hatches, I hope it will be a she and not a he because she will lay eggs and I will have more stick insects.
I will be able to look at them when they hatch.
BugsEd Visit
by LilianZhao 1/2M
Last Tuesday, Dr Lani came to our classroom to teach us about different kinds of insects.
First Dr Lani showed us a slideshow. She told us that primitive insects have a simple life cycle and modern insects go through
metamorphosis. After the slideshow she asked us some question
After that Dr Lani showed us her insect collection. It was very cool. Then she let us pat a Rhinoceros Beetle. You can’t pat
them hard or they will hiss at you. If they hiss it means that they are scared. When we had finished patting the Rhinoceros
Beetle, she showed us a Praying Mantis and a Goliath Stick Insect. After that Dr Lani let us hold a Titan Stick Insect. It tickled
a lot.
Finally, Dr Lani gave us an insect activity book with a stick insect egg in a vial. There was also a magnifying glass to find bugs
and forceps for picking up rocks, leaves or insects. You must be careful that you don’t squeeze the insects if you pick them up
with the forceps.
I loved when Dr Lani came to our classroom. I learnt lots about insects. Dr Lani told us that boy Rhinoceros beetles have a
horn and girl Rhinoceros beetles don’t. I loved Dr Lani’s insect collection. I had never seen insects like those before. My
favourite insect is the Christmas Beetle. Their wing covers are shiny and smooth and look beautiful.
YEAR 3 MAGIC SHOW
Imogen, "The Magnificent Mind Reader" is able to accurately name the coloured
crayon that Mr Smith selects from the paper bag
Year 3 magic show goes off with a bang!
Last week, our Year 3 Thinking Skills Group, demonstrated their talents by performing a magic show for Mr Smith. The
children had been studying a poem about the Great Alfonso called ABRACADABRA. Using Blooms Taxonomy’s levels of
thinking, our resident magicians researched and performed their tricks with enthusiasm and confidence. We are now looking
forward to creating our games for the “Balloon Olympics.”
Jaye's Bottle Cap and Straw Trick, Elaine's impressive Amazing String Trick and Riley's
magnificent Card Trick had us bewildered
ASPLEY 125 REPORT
DON\'T BE AN APRIL FOOL - Join us on the oval for the 96.5FM broadcast!
There will be plenty of fun on the school oval on Wednesday 1st April when 96.5fm broadcast their breakfast
show live from Aspley State School. And no, it’s not an April Fools’ prank!
Join Liam, Robbie and Romeo the Radio Dog as they take their breakfast show on the road with the Family Show
School Excursion. They’ll be broadcasting from 6am-9am and there will be lots of fun family activities including a
jumping castle, Brisbane Heat skills and drills, first swing golf, St John’s display and a coffee cart for the parents
and teachers! You can see the Seven News helicopter when it pops in for a visit!
We will also have a fundraising breakfast BBQ at the school from 6am, so bring the entire family, your friends and
neighbours and have breakfast before you head to school or work! We will be selling cooked breakfast fare and
drinks:
Sausage & Onion on Bread Roll - $2.50
Sausage with Bacon, Onion and Cheese on Bread Roll - $3.50
Juice Box/Poppers - $1
At 8.40am, the Channel 7 Chopper will be overhead, taking footage of our students in the formation of a
big 125 on the oval. To assist with this shot, students are requested to wear their house colours to school
on the day and be seated on the Oval Terrace seating by 8.30am to follow staff instructions for the
photograph.
And don’t forget to tune your radio in to 96.5fm and listen to the broadcast.
From 11.30am, thefundraising 125 Obstacle Course will take place on the oval (see Deputy Principal's News for
more information).
Due to this event, please note that there may be a greater volume of traffic around the school. Please be patient
and considerate to our neighbours.
IMPORTANT NOTE TO ALL PARENTS RE 96.5fm VISIT:
Please be aware that as Channel 7 and 96.5fm are broadcasters they will be filming/recording during their visit. If
you/your children attend this event, it is taken as agreement that any filming and broadcasting of any footage
recorded of your children is permitted. Furthermore, 96.5fm will take photographs at the event which may be used
on their website and other 96.5fm promotional materials.
Please note also that children attending this event prior to 8.15am must do so under direct parental
supervision.
Camp Australia before school care attendance on April 1st
If your children are attending before school care on this day, please check with Camp Australia for permission slips
for supervised attendance. Please also note that breakfast can be purchased at the event (prices listed above).
BBQs and Volunteers
Thanks to all the parents and teachers who volunteered to help at our forthcoming BBQs – we have had an
excellent response. Don’t forget, you can come and visit us at Bunnings (Carseldine) this Saturday 21st March and
buy a sausage and a cold drink!
Thanks also for the drinks’ donations. We are still seeking fruit juice box/popper donations for the 96.5fm BBQ on April 1st.
Please drop to the tuckshop or the office.
Ray White Colouring Competition P-2
One of our Aspley 125 major sponsors – Ray White Aspley – is holding a colouring competition for students from Prep –
Grade 2. Prizes for each year level will be awarded by the Ray White Aspley Easter Bunny at the Easter Parade on Thursday
nd
2 April. Watch out for the colouring competition flier in your child’s/children’s school bags this week, and make sure to
return them to the school by Monday 30th March to be in with a chance to win a prize. Thank you for supporting our
supporters!
Reconnecting with our past students and teachers
The reunion team is trying to reconnect with former students and teachers. The attached poster will be sent out to the local
community in coming weeks. If you know someone who was a former student or a former teacher at Aspley State School,
please ask them to reconnect (see flier below for details on how to reconnect).
Chermside Library Historic Display
The Aspley 125 Team has been busy putting together old photographs and memorabilia for an historic display at Chermside
Library. The display will be in place from for the month of April. Make sure to visit the library and learn a little more about
our school’s history.
125 Commemorative Book
Our 125th Anniversary Commemorative Book is taking shape. It will be printed in full colour and celebrates both the
school’s history and present day activities that capture the fun and spirit of Aspley State School. We are still
seeking photos of the school and surrounding district as well as informal photographs of school events, excursions,
sports days, dress up days and other special occasions. So if you know someone who is a former student or
teacher – ask them to check their photo albums and hard drives, and email high quality scans and you best photos
to [email protected] contact the 125 Team if you would like some help with this. Original
materials will be returned.
Also, if your parents or grandparents have great stories about their school days at Aspley State School, please ask if they would
like to share them with us.
125 Sponsorship Opportunities
We are delighted to announce another PLATINUM sponsor. Thanks to Edenstone Masonry – your local
manufacturer of quality outdoor paving and pool coping.
Please support the businesses that support us!
Remember, if you or someone you know has a local business who might like to help support our Aspley 125
program of events, please refer them to our sponsorship proposal on the web site.
NEWS@125
The April issue of News@125 will go home with students before the Easter holidays.
STUDENT COUNCIL NEWS
LOLLY BAGS
At the end of this week, children in Years 3 - 6 will receive a letter and order form for lolly bags.
As the letter explains, all children who order a lolly bag will receive these at the eating break after they have completed the cross country
race.
The lolly bags will be taken to the classrooms by the Senior Leaders early in the day.
I would recommend ordering only one lolly bag for your child however if they have younger siblings who are not participating in the cross
country event and you would like a lolly bag for them, then that will be fine.
In addition to this being a fundraiser for the Canberra trip, it is a good way to re-energise the children after their race.
CANBERRA EASTER RAFFLE
All children going to Canberra will receive a raffle book of 10 tickets to sell this week. All tickets and money must be returned to Mrs
Nelma Wright, no later than Wednesday, the 1st April, so that the raffle can be drawn on Thursday morning.
There will be numerous prizes of Cadbury Creation Family blocks.
Any parents are welcome to buy tickets in this raffle even if your child is not going to Canberra this year. Extra books will be available at
the School Office by this Friday, the 20th March.
Thank you for your support.
Nelma Wright (Canberra Trip Co-ordinator)
SCHOOL COUNCIL SURVEY
Over the last 5 years, our enrolment numbers have continued to increase, which is very pleasing. Our
enrolment information shows that in excess of 60% of our children are living out of the catchment area,
which indicates that many parents are choosing Aspley State School rather than their nearest school.
To gain greater insight into why you chose Aspley State School for your child/children, it would be greatly
appreciated if all parents, especially those out of Aspley's catchment area, could assist us by completing
a very brief survey which is linked below. It should only take a couple of minutes to complete.
When all the data from the survey has been collated I will be happy to report to the Aspley community our
findings.
Thank you for your assistance.
Nelma Wright - Aspley State School Council Chairperson
BUILDING AND MAINTENANCE WORKING BEES
Dust off your gardening gloves and help improve our grounds here at Aspley.
Please put the following dates in your calendar. More details to follow from Craig Spink, head of the
Building and Maintenance subcommittee.
Saturday 2nd May- 3pm
Sunday 3rd May- 8am
Saturday 18th July- 3pm
Sunday 19th July- 8am
Saturday 12th September - 3pm
Sunday 13th September- 8am
Saturday 28th November - 3pm
Sunday 29th November - 8am
ACTIVE SCHOOL TRAVEL
ACTIVE SCHOOL TRAVEL AT ASPLEY
Brisbane City Councils Active School Travel Program aims to change travel behaviour to and from school. Families are
encouraged to walk, cycle, scooter, car pool or use public transport and even use our Outside School Hours Care (before and
after school care) to reduce traffic congestion around schools.
A DAY TO REMEMBER
Tuesday is our selected Active School Travel day for Aspley State School. This is the day we collect travel statistics for
council. Every Tuesday will now be known as Tackle Traffic Tuesday.
NO DIRT
Aspley State School's hip-hop dance program 'NO DIRT just dance' commences the 2nd week of each school term. It is a 9 week dance
program using clean, fun, energetic, age appropriate Hip Hop dance moves and music to motivate young dancers for years Prep - 6 and, we
encourage parents & younger siblings to come, watch, or even join in the fun. (younger siblings must have parental supervision).
Only $50 for the Term (prepaid) or pay weekly at $7 per session, permission forms at the office.
For enquiries please contact Una Baldwin at [email protected] facebook.com/nodirtjustdance or 0408 748 768
NEW ACTIVITIES TO COME THIS YEAR !!!!! NO DIRT CHEER ANYONE!!!!!
SPORT TEAM TOKEN
This year we are going to do it a little differently. The challenge this year is to participate for your sports team,Kennedy,Oxley
and Mitchell. Everyone who Actively Travels to School can participate by grabbing a token and placing it in the boxes provided.
The Sports Captains will be encouraging you the whole year. We still have lots of rewards to hand out and we will let you know
further in the terms how to obtain these for your team, class and individually.
HOW TO ACTIVELY TRAVEL TO SCHOOL
We know that everyone is different, so there are lots of ways you can actively travel to school.
How will you actively travel to school?
WALK:
Leave the car at home and walk your kids to school. If you live too far away, drive part of the way and walk the rest. We
call that “Park and Stride”. Join a P&S group of parents and children and walk together. Don’t forget a Water bottle, Hat,
Sunscreen, walking shoes are best and umbrella in case of rain. See Park and Stride Flyer for more details on the
website. PLEASE NOTE : YOU ONLY HAVE TO WALK TWO STREET BLOCKS TO MAKE IT COUNT
RIDE:
Bike or Scooter to school, Ride with your children to school. It’s legal to ride on the footpath and there is a footpath in all
directs to the school. Remember to always have your helmet secured on your head. Bikes can be secured near E block
and there is a Scooter park near the entrance of the Library.
CARPOOL:
Find a friend and carpool to school. It’s an easy way to save money and time. Talk to other parents in your child’s class
or at music or sport to see who is going your way, who lives near you, or put a note through your Spirit Committee leader
or Facebook Groups if you want to assist other parents or need assistance getting to school.
PUBLIC
TRANSPORT:
Public transport is easy once you know how. For bus timetables, visit www.translink.com.au, phone 13 12 30 or visit the
Transport
Information
Centre
located
on
the
corner
of
Ann
and
Roma
Streets.
Try
catching
the
bus,
it
can
be
Carpool,
Buspool,
Walkpool,
or
even
Bikepool
with
your
friends
to
and
from
Connect with the Facebook Groups or your Spirit Committee leader for your class and organise some groups.
fun.
school.
DROP OFF ZONE
While dropping your children through the drop off zone it is not considered Active Travel (unless you
carpool), we do encourage those families without prep children to use the 2 Minute Drop Zone rather than
trying to park at the school where parking is a premium. We have 2 Minute Drop Off and Pick Up Zones
at the Hall (Horn Rd) and on MaundrellTce. A “How to Use the Zone” flyer can be found on the Schools
Website,
and
will
also
be
distributed
in
the
next
few
weeks.
Things to remember and to discuss with your children:
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Children must sit and wait for pick up; No running to Cars;
NO Parking in the Drop & Go Zone and designated areas between 8-9am or 2-4pm;
Make pickup time after 3:05pm to give time for children to arrive;
Display Surname on the left hand visor ;
Only drop off and pick up on the green line;
Pull forward as far as you can; and above all, Follow ALL Road Rules around the school.
DATES TO BE ACTIVE
nd
Tuesday
22 of
May
–
Walk
Safely
to
School
Day
100%
Day
th
Friday
26
June
Fancy
Sock
Day
(Last
Day
of
Term)
WALK
/RIDE/
CARPOOL)
th
Tuesday
4
August
–
Winter
Scarf,
Snood
and
Beanie
Day
th
nd
Friday
18
Sept
CAR
FREE
DAY
(official
day
is
22
September).
100%Day
th
Tuesday 4 November - Melbourne Cup Day – great day to race your friends to school
NOTIFICATIONS OF EVENTS TO BE SENT OUT TO STUDENTS CLOSER TO THE EVENT DATE
CAMP AUSTRALIA NEWS
Shade Sail
Great news!! The Cancer Council Queensland has given us a small grant to assist with putting up a shade sail adjacent to the
back concrete area. This will give the children more shade when having afternoon tea and playing the sacred game of
handball. The parents who stand in the sun peering into the glare while waiting for their children to come off the oval will also
be relieved. Thankyou to Angela Spink and the school for information and assistance with the application.
We are about to put in a grant application to put in a native bush tucker garden outside our room. Hopefully it is as successful.
Program
To celebrate Australian Heritage Week this week the students created two gorgeous dioramas depicting the
Great Barrier Reef. Allison Butler and TamekaWaldon also chose some Aboriginal Design sea creature and bird colouring ins
which are very popular and are being put up around the room.
Holidays
It is that time again already. Only 11 days of school before the Easter Holidays. We have a HERO theme which is proving
popular with the boys. Alex Eliopoulos and Jayce Bullock have already handed in their list of games and activities for Top
Secret Day and Rockstars Day. We have copies of the program on the parent desk for you to take. To book simply go to the
web site and choose the days you want.
Medicare Numbers
A reminder that we still require Medicare numbers for some students. Please bring in your Medicare cards or text the number
to our work phone (0412 203004). Unfortunately we cannot receive photos on our phone.
Frances and Team
Program Details
To find out more about our program, view fees and to register visit www.campaustralia.com.au
"WEP" VOLUNTEER HOST FAMILIES
Enrichment, Education, Excitement - Become a Volunteer Host Family!
World Education Program (WEP) is inviting you to experience another culture in your own home by
becoming a volunteer host family to an international student arriving in July 2015. Our students from
Canada, Denmark, Ecuador, Italy, Belgium, the USA, and France are looking forward to experiencing life
in Australia, making new friends and becoming a member of an Australian family soon.
"Wonderful - joyous - heartfelt. An absolutely wonderful idea and so beneficial for all involved, from family
to school friends. We truly feel Enrico is another member of our family."
- Marie - host mother of Enrico (Italy)
Hosting Is Fun! Find Out more!
Getting to know your student before he or she arrives brings fun and joy to everyone involved. To help
you make this important decision, contact WEP today to receive a full information pack for your family.
Sylvia Kelly
Manager – Inbound Exchange Programs
Phone: 1300 884 733
Email: [email protected]
Online: http://www.wep.org.au
OTHER AVAILABLE STUDENT ACTIVITIES/SERVICES
ASPLEY SPARROWS GIRLS SOCCER CLINIC NEWS
CONGRATULATIONS! SPARROWS SELECTED FOR EAGLES CHALLENGE CUP
Selections have been announced for Aspley State School’s two inaugural representative teams contesting the Aspley Eagles
Challenge Cup soccer carnival at Aspley State High School on Thursday, 2 April 2015.
Congratulations go to our 22-member squad comprising the following grades 5 and 6 girls:
Alexandra Hassall, 5F
Madison Tinney, 5M
Alyssa Corbett, 6MV
Maia Morris-Arkell (Arkell), 5P
Amber Everett-Jones, 5P
MakaritaKururangi, 5P
Caitlin Lawrence, 6H
Makayla Brown, 5F
Charlotte Vine, 6WS
MillieaCoonz, 5P
Emma Ross, 6H
Olivia Mulcahy, 5R
Fiona Chu, 6H
Poppy Hayes, 5P
Grace Deller, 5P
Rachel Fitzgerald, 5R
Imogen Russell, 6H
Rebecca Lawry, 5F
JanikaLapworth, 5F
Sarah Leonard, 5P
Lily Revie, 5F
Sophie Osborne, 6WS
In extending the community reach of their Soccer Enrichment Program, Aspley State High School will
host the 6thAspley Eagles Challenge Cup on their oval as a day-long, round-robin soccer tournament
between senior primary school students (grades 5 and 6) in the local area. The carnival format consists of
modified games of soccer, with finals at the end of the day.
The event provides an opportunity for schools to win top honours, with Taigum State School currently in
possession of the Hart Sport Aspley Eagles Challenge Cup Trophy. However, our focus for the day is
participation, gaining experience, and most of all, having fun!
Mr Farrow wishes to impress upon the girls that they should feel very proud! This is an exciting
opportunity to represent Aspley State School for the first time ever in this coveted local tournament.
PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL COACHES ADD “KICK” TO SPARROWS
The Aspley Sparrows Girls Soccer Clinic is poised to go ahead in leaps and bounds with the announcement that North Star
Football Club professional coaches will be leading Monday morning training drills for the next three weeks.
Generously boosting the Sparrows’ skill development at no cost to families, certified and blue-carded coaches will work with
the girls every Monday from 8am sharp beginning March 16th. Grade 3’s Miss Oliver will also continue as Monday’s teacherlead.
As part of their commitment to the North Brisbane community, North Star Football Association Inc., based at O'Callaghan Park
Zillmere, has added Aspley State School to their school development program roster. With a 40-year history, North Star FC is
one of Brisbane’s most successful premier league soccer clubs, encouraging playing opportunities for male and female
participants of all ages from under 6 to open age groups.
Kicking off the Sparrows’ weekly training schedule on March 16th, 23rd and 30th, Aspley State School’s rookies and experienced
players will benefit from Monday’s fun, inclusive and enjoyable football guidance based on North Star’s strategic soccer
development expertise.
As recommended by Football Federation of Australia, their coaches will work with our Sparrows on the “4 core skills”: first
touch; running with the ball; 1-v-1; and striking the ball (passing/shooting).
Professional coaching is a massive boon for the growing Sparrows Girls Soccer program, Aspley State School itself, and of
course our grade 4, 5 and 6 girls who wish to try this increasingly popular female sport in Australia. Nonetheless, Sparrows
Girls Soccer Clinic is only made possible with teacher and parental support. Thank you to the staff and families who volunteer
their time to see girls’ football take off at Aspley!
THURSDAY TRAINING REPLACES WEDNESDAYS
Wednesday morning girls’ soccer training will move to Thursdays from March 19 th due to unforeseen circumstances. We
apologise for any inconvenience to your routine and look forward to seeing as many Sparrows as possible at our Monday,
Thursday and Friday 8am training sessions. Futsal remains at first break on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Soccer skills training with Aspley Sparrows is entirely flexible. Players can train as much or as little as they want. However,
selection for competitive teams (eg Gala Day or “Aspley Eagles Challenge Cup”) will depend on a number of factors including
(but not limited to) on-field performance, demonstrated team spirit, and commitment to attend training.
Further information
Mr Kym Farrow, year 4 teacher & Sparrows Coordinator
[email protected] | 07 3863 9111
Mrs CarolynneHassall, parent & Sparrows communication/administration support
[email protected] | 0404 883 462
TRIPLE \\\'P\\\' DIABETIC RESEARCH PROGRAM
Are you a parent of a child with type 1 diabetes?
Every day, thousands of Australian children suffer the effects of type 1 diabetes and families struggle with
illness management and children’s behavioural and emotional adjustment.
Positive Parenting for Healthy Living is an adaptation of the successful Triple P- Positive Parenting
Program offering practical ideas and support for parents of children with type 1 diabetes. This innovative
group program is designed to help parents manage their child’s illness, assist children in coping with their
illness and emotions, and prevent and manage difficult child behaviour.
Over the next few months and for a limited time only, parents of 2-10 year old children with type 1
diabetes are able to access Positive Parenting for Healthy Living Triple P as part of a University of
Queensland research project. Parents will be able to attend the program free of charge, and will be
asked to complete 2 sets of assessment measures (questionnaire and family observation) over a 6
month period, as part of the study. ContactAditiLohan on (07) 3346 7689 or email
[email protected], or visit https://exp.psy.uq.edu.au/t1diabetesfor more information.
ASPLEY SWIMMING CLUB NEWS
Aspley State School Amateur Swimming Club is now in its 48th year and meets every Friday night during terms 1 and 4.
Racing commences at 6.30pm and is finished by 8.30pm.
At these meets children compete against other children in a family friendly atmosphere where the emphasis is on improving
their swimming times.
The continuing aims of the Swimming Club are to:
8.
encourage water confidence and fitness
9.
promote good sporstmanship
10.
promote swimming as a competitive sport
Swimming for term 1 recommences Friday, 30 January 2015.
For further information about joining our wonderful Club please e-mail [email protected].
COMMUNITY NEWS
ZILLMERE COMMUNITY CENTRE
HOLT FITNESS
HOLT FITNESS "ABT" CLASS!!!
Holt Fitness has an ABT (abs,butts,thighs) class every Monday night in the
Aspley School Hall, 6.00 - 7.00pm, for just $15 per person! All are welcome - you
don't have to be a member of the Gym to attend.
We look forward to seeing you there!!!
Richard and Ashley
BUBBLE DOME TECHNOLOGY WORKSHOPS
Bubble Dome will be holding technology workshops in robotics and coding over the school holidays at
Craigslea State High School and The University of Queensland.
The exciting range of workshops on offer include Architecture, Design and Model Making and Minecraft
Inventions and Challenges. The courses are designed for students as young as 5 years of age through to
14 and up. Download the brochure below for more information.
Book early before March 20 to receive $25 off. Simply enter the promo code 'MARCH' at the online
checkout.
Tel: 1800 11 55 62
Email: [email protected]
Book Online: www.bubbledome.com
QUEENSLAND ACADEMIES OPEN DAY
THE SCHOOL OF ST JUDE OPEN DAY
ALL ABOUT KIDS - Speech Language Pathology
All About Kidsis a private practice with speech pathologists, occupational therapists and psychologists
specialised in supporting children.
In 2015 All About Kidsare offering a special screening assessment for Prep and Year 1 students at
Aspley State School. This assessment will screen the student's speech production and literacy skills and
will cost $25 per student. If you or your child's teacher have concerns about their speech production or
their readiness for literacy learning, then this screening assessment is a great opportunity to get some
speech pathology support.
To make an appointment or to find out more information:
11.
12.
13.
Phone: 07 3262 6009
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.allaboutkids.com.au
Learn more about how a speech pathologist can help your child by downloading the All About Kids
Newsletter - Issue One below.
T20 GIRLS CRICKET
SENSORY MOVIE DAY
Sensory Movie Day is an inclusive event for families with special needs.
Lighting is on Dim, Sound lowered, Volunteers monitoring Fire exit doors.
Please find attached the upcoming dates.
NORTHSIDE FAMILY DAY CARE TWILIGHT MARKETS
CAREER KEYS COURSES