Dear Eumundi State School Community,

Over the past fortnight, our school has experienced a series of significant events, including a severe weather event that has impacted our usual routines. We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all members of our community for your understanding and cooperation during this challenging time. Your commitment to safety has been paramount and we appreciate your efforts to keep our children safe.

The recent flooding has had an impact on our region and we understand the difficulties many families have faced. We want to remind everyone of the importance of safety first. If it is not safe to drive to school, please keep your children at home. Remember the slogan: "If it's flooded, forget it." Your safety and the safety of your children are our top priorities.

In other news, we are gearing up for the NAPLAN assessments, which commenced this week. We encourage all students to do their best and remind parents to support their children during this period including a good breakfast. Year 3 & 5 NAPLAN testing is taking place from Wednesday 12 March - Monday 24 March.

We are also excited to share details about our new Annual Improvement Plan, which focuses on two key priorities:

1. Advancing Reading and Writing: This priority is self-explanatory but crucial. We are refining and revisiting the work we have done in reading and writing over the past five years to ensure consistency in our pedagogy. Our goal is to enhance the literacy skills of all our students, building on the solid foundation we have established.
2. Sharpening Visible Learning: This involves developing a clear line of sight for our leadership team to ensure the intended results of the Australian Curriculum are enacted. Visible Learning, a concept developed by John Hattie, emphasizes making learning visible to both teachers and students. It involves teachers assessing their impact on student learning and continuously refining their teaching practices to maximize student outcomes. By focusing on Visible Learning, we aim to create an environment where students are actively engaged in their learning journey and can clearly see their progress.

We look forward to working together as a community to achieve these goals and continue providing a supportive and enriching learning environment for our students.

Parent/Teacher Interviews link

Semester 1 Parent/Teacher interviews will be taking place in weeks 9 and 10 of Term 1, or weeks 1 and 2 of Term 2. At Eumundi we have a ‘no surprises’ policy in terms of student academic progress and behaviour and I would encourage all parents to make a time to speak with their child's class teachers to discuss progress, concerns etc. prior to developing end of semester reports. While it is only early in the year, the interviews are an excellent opportunity to learn more about how your child has started the 2025 school year.  

The interviews will give you an insight into your child’s strengths and future areas to focus on for improvement throughout the year.  

To book an interview please click on this link, go to the school Facebook page or navigate to the portal on the school website front page under ‘News’ ‘Book Parent/Teacher Interviews Online’. When you click on the link in the email, Facebook or website the initial time, you will be asked to enter your email. It will then redirect you to update your password via an email link.  Please use this booking guide for assistance.  

Bookings will be open from 3:00pm Friday 14 March until 3:00pm Thursday 20 March 2025.

Report Card Survey

School reports are important part of our academic communication process. They assist parents to stay engaged in their child's schooling. They help parents to set and maintain high expectations, talk to their child about school and support and encourage their learning. The school is seeking your input in making the school reports more user friendly.

Please complete the following survey - Report Card Review 2025.

Student Semester 1 and 2 Academic Reports provide information on individual student’s achievement against expected year level standards, and how well the student is engaging with the expected learning. 

In Prep to Year 12, schools are required to provide a plain language academic report, twice a year. For each reporting period (end of each semester), schools report separately on each learning area/subject taught. The report includes:

• Each Learning Area/Subject provided.
• The student’s achievement against a five-point reporting scale.
• Behaviour and effort.

Currently at Eumundi State School, Student Academic Reports are emailed to parents at the end of Semester 1 and Semester 2. In the Reports, teachers provide:

• An ‘achievement rating’ on a five-point scale for each Learning Area/Subject.
• An ‘effort rating’ for each learning area/subject.
• A generic Learning Area comment that summarises the year level content for the semester. (Please note: An in-depth overview of this information is also emailed to parents each term, are displayed around the school grounds, and are available on the school website.)
• A ‘behaviour rating’ and comment in relation to our school’s Student Code of Conduct.
• A personalised overall comment generally including student strengths, English and Mathematics skills of note, any adjustment/supports for their learning, and suggestions for improvement.
• An indication from the teacher regarding a request for a parent-teacher interview to discuss the report.

Example Learning Area generic comments =

Example behaviour and overall individualised comments =

Our school is currently giving consideration to modifying report card ‘comment writing’, in order to provide parents with a more precise and plain language report card.

We would appreciate parent feedback to help inform our decision and therefore ask parents to complete a short – (2 – question) survey – Report Card Review 2025.

Thank you once again for your ongoing support and understanding.

Best regards,

Rob

10-12 Years Noosa District Swimming Trials 2025

Congratulations to everyone who represented the Eumundi Swim Team at this year’s Noosa District 10–12 years Swimming Trials held at the Noosa Aquatic Centre, Sunshine Beach on Wednesday 12 February. Once again, the level of skill and determination displayed was wonderful to see by all swimmers. We had some tremendous individual results in the pool as well, with a number of our swimmers receiving 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place ribbons

The 15 person Eumundi team consisted of:

Girls:    Bonnie C, Hazel M, Florence N, Emma M, Ivanka H, Sophie W, Aurora J, Rose S

Boys:     George F, Cooper D, Harper T, Oliver B, Cooper B, Oliver N and Jack C.

Standing out amongst the competitors for Eumundi was George F, Bonnie C, Emma M and Ivanka who all qualified for selection in the Noosa District Swimming Team.

In addition, we had some terrific overall results in the pool during the day. Please refer below:

• 12 Years Boys - Jack C (5th in 50m backstroke and 6^th in 100m freestyle)
• 11 Years Boys - Oliver B (4^th in 100m backstroke and 4^th in 100m freestyle).
• 10 Years Boys – George F (1^st in 50m butterfly, 3^rd in 50m backstroke, 3^rd in 100m freestyle and 4^th in 50m freestyle)
• 11 Years Girls – Emma M (5^th in 50m freestyle and 5^th in 100m freestyle)
• 11 Years Girls – Ivanka H (2^nd in 50m breaststroke and 4^th in 100m breaststroke)
• 10 Years Girls – Bonnie C (1^st in 50m freestyle, 2^nd in 50m backstroke and 2^nd in 50m butterfly)

Any swimmer who would like a copy of swim times and overall placings, please see Mr Brinkworth at your earliest convenience.

Many thanks to Mr Kross for his role as our school’s Team Manager on the day as well as our Eumundi official Mr Midgley and our parents/caregivers who kindly gave up their time to attend the carnival.

10-12 Years Noosa District Sport Trials 2025

Congratulations to all of the Eumundi students who have been selected to represent the Noosa District in their respective sports so far this year. I am still waiting for a full list of these students so that when we recognise this achievement no one is overlooked. Watch this space!

2025 Eumundi State School Sporting Dates

Friday 28 March (Term 1, Week 9) - Yr 3-6 Cross Country (8.50am to 10.50am)

Thursday 12 June (Term 2, Week 8) - P-2 Jnr Sports Day (9.30am to 12.50pm). 

Wednesday 18 June (Term 2, Week 9) - Yr 3-6 800m events (middle/afternoon sessions 12.10 to 2.30pm)

Friday 20 June (Term 2, Week 9) - Yr 3-6 Athletics Carnival (all day). 

Tuesday 18 November (Term 4, Week 7) - Yr 3-6 Swimming Carnival (all day).

Up and Coming Noosa District Sport Events

13 March (new date): Noosa District 10-12yrs Boys and Girls Basketball Trials (for selected students)

17 March: Noosa District 10-12yrs Girls Soccer Trials (for selected students)

17 March (new date): Noosa District 10-11yrs Boys Rugby League Trials (for selected students)

25 March: Noosa District 10-12yrs Boys and Girls Softball Trials (for selected students)

26 March: Noosa District 11-12yrs Rugby Union Trials (for selected students)

26 March: DIRECT TO REGION 10-12YRS BOYS HOCKEY TRIALS (for selected students)

27 March: DIRECT TO REGION 10-12YRS GIRLS HOCKEY TRIALS (for selected students)

28 March: Eumundi SS Years 3-6 Interhouse Cross Country (for all years 3-6 students)

01 April (new date): DIRECT TO REGION 10-12YRS GOLF TRIALS (for selected students)

02 April (new date): Noosa District 10-12yrs Boys Soccer Trials (for selected students)

09 May: Noosa District 10-12yrs Cross Country Trials (for selected students)

Yours in sport

Adam Brinkworth

Physical Education Teacher

Celebrating International Day of Happiness: A Boost for Mental Well-Being

Happiness is more than just a fleeting emotion—it’s a vital part of our overall well-being. On Thursday March 20, we celebrate the International Day of Happiness, a day dedicated to recognizing the importance of happiness in our lives and communities. This global celebration serves as a reminder that happiness is not just a personal pursuit but a shared experience that thrives in connection, kindness and positive action.

Why Happiness Matters for Mental Health

Our mental well-being is deeply connected to how we experience and cultivate happiness. Engaging in positive interactions, practicing gratitude, and embracing moments of joy can reduce stress, improve resilience, and strengthen our relationships. When we focus on small acts of kindness and connection, we not only boost our own happiness but also create a ripple effect that uplifts those around us.

Peer Support Leaders Bringing Joy to Our School Community

To celebrate this special day, our Peer Support Leaders will be hosting activities before school and during lunch breaks to spread positivity and connection. These activities will be designed to:

• Encourage gratitude and kindness
• Foster friendships and inclusivity

Create a sense of belonging and joy

By taking part in these moments of shared happiness, we strengthen our mental well-being and remind ourselves that even small acts—like a smile, a kind word, or a shared laugh—can make a big difference.

Let’s come together and celebrate the power of happiness! Join us on March 20th and be part of something uplifting!

The Student Council is kicking of the year with our first Fundraiser 

Story Dogs

When: Friday March 21 (Week 8)

Wear: Orange or a dog costume

Bring: Gold Coin Donation

QPARENTS

The office has sent out emails inviting parents or guardians to become a QParents Account Owner (QPAO) for their student. QPAOs will be able to register for QParents to access and manage the student’s information online, view the student’s information, and submit requests to update some of the student’s details.

Student information includes:

• Attendance and absence details, as well as the ability to notify the school of an absence
• Positive behaviour information
• Academic report cards
• Viewing unpaid invoice details, payment history, and making payments online
• Viewing and updating personal student details, including medical conditions and address
• Enrolment details
• Upcoming events list showing school events and excursions.
• Consent Management including Online Services and Excursion permission.

When you receive your invitation email or letter, simply follow the instructions to register your QParents account. The process should take less than 10 minutes to complete. Initial registration and addition of students to your account must be done on a desktop or laptop computer. Once registered, you will then be able to access QParents using your mobile device (via web browser or by downloading the iPhone or Android App). Invitations sent by email will only ever come from no.reply@qparents.qld.edu.au. You will not be invited to register from any other email address or organisation.

If you do no not want to register you can just ignore the invitation and your child’s student information will not be available to anyone through Qparents.

You will also need to have your child’s EQ ID (their Education Queensland identification number) in order to complete your QParents registration. You will find your child’s EQ ID on the most recent invoice sent from the school last week.

Paul Midgley

Writing Co-Teacher/Digital Technologies Specialist Teacher/ICT Co-ordinator

Urgent attention to all Parents/Caregivers

The Staff Carpark on Caplick Way is NOT TO BE USED AS A DROP-OFF/PICK-UP AREA OR PARKING AREA FOR PARENTS WAITING TO COLLECT THEIR CHILD.  This action creates issues with on site contractors, deliveries and staff having access to the carparks and is potentially dangerous for students. 

The parallel car parks at the front of the school (near the Wellbeing Hub) are now 10 minute between 7.00am – 9.00am & 2.00pm – 4.00pm so they can be utilised as a Drop Off/Pick Up Area.

Students should not be advised by parents to meet them in the Carpark area.  The exit route for the students should be through the middle area of the school and then through the single gates.

LATE ARRIVAL

Students ARRIVING LATE need to sign in at the office and obtain a late slip.  All students should be in class by 8:40am for roll marking.  Students who arrive after this time are considered late.  This is prime learning time for all the children so please try and give your child/ren every opportunity to maximise their learning by arriving to school on time.

EARLY DEPARTURES and/or CHANGES TO TRAVEL/COLLECTION ARRANGEMENTS.       

Parents are requested to make appropriate arrangements with their children relating to getting home from school in the morning before they leave home. Please feel free to send a note to school for the teacher if arrangements differ to other days.  Telephone messages received during the day are difficult to pass on without distrupting not only your child's learning, but the learning of others too.  Messages received after 12:00pm can not be guaranteed to be able to be passed onto the student.

Parents are advised that if they are unable to pick-up their child/ren at 2.50pm, the first option should always be for casual registration with OSHC. Helping Hands OSHC is an amazing service that offers regular or casual bookings for before and after school.  Once registered you can book in at the last minute when unexpected delays crop up

Afternoon Program – Stay and Play where kids can dive into more fun activities and build friendships.

Cybersafety refers to online behaviour that is safe, appropriate and responsible. To help prevent cybersafety incidents, students are taught how to:

• use technology appropriately and responsibly
• behave in ways to enhance their own safety.

Mr Midgley is conducting cyber safety lessons as part of his Digital Technology lessons with students from PREP to Year 4. As parents it is also important that you take the time to speak with your child about what it means to be cyber safe, and what you as a parent can do to ensure that your child is cyber safe. To assist with these conversations please refer to the information below and useful links.

Information for parents

Remember, you already possess the skills to supervise. Apply these skills to technology and the online world.

To help keep your child safe when they are online, you can:

• put computers in open spaces within your home
• remind your child that content can be posted instantaneously, the downfall is that they can potentially post something without thinking about the ramifications.
• educate your child about appropriate online behaviour and the need for respectful communication with other internet users
• keep an eye on what your child is doing online (both in the home and on any mobile devices they may have access to e.g. phones, music devices and tablets)
• set clear rules about what sites and activities they are allowed to access
• install software to limit their use and monitor/restrict the sites they visit
• discuss a plan with your child about how to address any cybersafety issues that may arise (make sure they know you will be supportive if they mention anything and that they will not get in trouble)
• encourage them to find someone they feel safe talking to, such as yourself, a relative, a teacher or a trusted adult.

Social media tips

Social media applications (such as Facebook) are extremely popular with young people and the usage of these sites is only likely to increase.

Some tips to help your child stay safe while using social media include:

• make sure they never reveal their home address, phone number, email address and passwords
• review the age suitability for any sites and apps your child joins or installs
• look at who their contacts and followers are—this will help reduce the risk of them encountering inappropriate people and content
• educate yourself on the issues that children face
• establish an open relationship with your child so they trust you to view their profiles
• reinforce the need for them to keep passwords private and to update them regularly
• ensure your child understands the implications of posting images and content on the internet.

Consider creating an account on the social media application your child uses and request to become friends or follow their account. Your child may resist this but it may still be a good idea to open an account to increase your understanding of the site or app they are using.

Sourced from: Cybersafety in Queensland state schools (https://www.qld.gov.au/education/schools/health/cybersafety/cybersafety-qss)

USEFUL LINKS

https://esafety.gov.au/parents

Thank you

Mr Midgley

EXPERIENCE SEEDLINGS PLAYGROUP

Eumundi State School is continuing to host Seedlings Playgroup every Thursday morning. This is a great opportunity for our 0 to 5 year olds to play, grow and connect in a safe and stimulating environment. It's coordinated by experienced educators and encourages both indoor activities in a well-equipped classroom and outdoor fun in our Prep playground. This community initiative not only enriches young minds, offers parents a chance to mingle but also supports a seamless transition to Prep at ESS. 

Louise Hobson

Dear Parents/Caregivers

Noosa District State High School is inviting students in Year 5 or 6 who have a keen interest in Musical Theatre to audition for a role in the 2025 Noosa District SHS musical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.  To gain a position in the Musical Theatre Excellence Program in 2025, students must attend an audition at Noosa High (Cooroy Campus) in the Drama Room (03) on Tuesday 1 April from 3.30 – 5.30pm.

For the audition students will be required to perform a 1-minute musical theatre piece of their own choice from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. This piece must include dance but could also include song and dance. Students are welcome to wear costumes for their audition however this is not essential. We will be looking for students who are well prepared, enthusiastic, energised and skilful.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will be staged at the Cooroy Campus on August 6, 7, 8 and 9.

Students will be required to attend Tuesday afternoon rehearsals in week 8, 9 and 10 of Term 2 and then Monday afternoon rehearsals from week 1 – 4 Term 3. Some weekend rehearsals will also be required, and an overnight camp will occur early in Term 3. 

Please note the cost of the program for successful participants will be $150, this will cover costs for costumes, hair, make-up, musical t-shirt and camp.

Please email Ms Louize Lyle (llyle1@eq.edu.au) to register for your audition by week 6 – Monday 3 March. However, due to unforeseen circumstances the registration is now open until Monday 24^th March.

We are so excited to have the opportunity to invite primary school students into this unique experience. Our Musical Theatre Excellence Program has been hugely successful for many years and highly rewarding to all involved. We encourage you to support your students in auditioning for this program.

Kind Regards

Louize Lyle                                          

Musical Producer / Director