Dear parents and caregivers,
We hope you enjoyed the recent holidays with your children and created some good family memories. We also pray the remembrance of Muharram was special for you and your family. As this busy Term 3 gathers speed we ask you to:
- Read all communication from the College including Class Dojo, School Stream, newsletters, notes and homework
- Support your children with correct uniform and completing homework and assignments on time while delivering students to school before 8:40am. Lessons start at 8:40am!
- Return notes promptly. We will not be ringing home to gain verbal consent for sporting activities or excursions
- Support your children's teachers at every opportunity.
Term 3 is always exciting and some of the highlights will include:
- Book Week in Primary, with the dress-up parade on August 25th. We have many distinguished visitors coming to read to our students including Her Excellency the Governor of SA, Senators Marielle Smith, Simon Birmingham and Karen Grogan, local Federal member Matt Burnell, SA Members of Parliament Lee Odenwalder, Sarah Game, Zoe Bettison, Tony Piccolo. SA Leader of the Opposition David Speirs and Mayor Glenn Docherty. There may be others and we are honoured that these distinguished visitors will share their time with us.
- Science Week will involve Primary and Secondary assemblies and special lessons.
- Student Led Conferences for Primary and reports for Secondary near the end of term.
- The Year 9 camp to Kangaroo Island as well as many other excursions and incursions.
- Inter-school sporting competitions including the Bachar Houli AFL competition.
- New student leadership opportunities.
- Participation in the Prime Minister's Spelling Bee.
- Fathers' Day breakfast and visiting classrooms.
- Swimming lessons for all Primary students.
And so much more!!!
Thank you to our families who continue to speak so positively about the teaching and learning and the faith development at Playford College. The recommendations from College families are encouraging many enquiries for new students to join us.
Thank you!
With blessings,
Chris Riemann and Racha Hammoud Makki
Heads of Schools
Head of Primary
Assalamualaikum dear parents/caregivers,
I would like to welcome you to Term 3 and I hope you had a wonderful time in the school holidays with your loved ones.
I am already feeling the excitement of this term which is going to be full of activities.
First of all, the Primary students started Term 3 with a morning assembly. They filled the school with joy. Their smiles and happiness was delightful as always. We have spoken to them about setting their goals for Term 3 both in school and at home. The main goal for all Primary School students was to focus on our safety while playing in the yard, walking from one place to another during lesson and dismissal time. The goal is to walk and not run. All of us teachers, SSOs, admin and leadership are included in supporting this goal for the safety of every student in Primary School InshaAllah.
I am sure by now all parents have received the Term overview which shows all the subject learning areas and what students will learn during the term, important messages from the teachers and the many other activities they will take part in.
On behalf of all the teachers, I want thank our parents for their support in:
- Arriving to school and picking their children up on time.
- Packing healthy food for recess and lunch.
- Asking their children about what they learnt everyday and listening to them for at least ten minutes about their school day.
- Keeping in touch with the teachers and contacting them for anything involving their children’s learning through ClassDojo.
- Setting some goals at home for healthy eating and exercise.
Finally, I want to congratulate our SRCs and the Primary School Captains for dropping off the Blankets collected for the homeless to the Hutt Street Centre. Alhamdulilah our student leaders had a wonderful experience interviewing some of the staff at the centre and asking how to assist them in the future. They are thinking of ways to benefit the homeless and those in need in the wider community.
I want to thank all our hard working teachers, maintenance team and the admin staff who prepared the school and the classrooms during the holidays to make sure the students start Term 3 well.
I wish you and our students a fantastic Term 3.
Thank you for being supportive. Please reach out if you have any questions or any concerns.
Take care and Khuda Hafiz,
Head of Secondary
I hope this message finds you well, as we reflect on the exciting and engaging start to Term 3 at our school. The beginning of the term has been abuzz with learning and activities that have enriched the minds and spirits of our staff and students alike.
- Professional Learning for Staff: On day 1, our dedicated staff members were deeply engaged in professional learning sessions designed to encourage self-reflection on their teaching methods and personal growth. This introspection allowed them to better tailor their teaching approach to the unique context and values of our school. As a result, they were even more energized to welcome our students back to the classroom on Tuesday.
- Joyful Reunion of Students: The joy was palpable as our students returned to school, excited to reconnect with friends and peers after the break. Their enthusiasm to dive back into the business of learning has been inspiring, and we are delighted to witness their eagerness to grow academically and personally.
- Assembly Commemorating Muharram: We held a meaningful assembly to honour Muharram. Our students were treated to an inspiring discussion about approaching learning with both love and intellect, which beautifully tied back to the work and sacrifice of Imam Hussain. We believe that fostering a spirit of empathy and understanding is essential for holistic growth.
- Sportsmanship and Team Spirit: Throughout the initial weeks of the term, sporting activities have been thriving. Our Year 11/12 boys' soccer and basketball teams, with support from some Year 9s and 10s, participated in state competitions. While victory may not have been theirs, they represented our college with pride, displaying exceptional sportsmanship and commitment.
- Year 12 Students' Journey: As the Year 12 students approach the final stretch of their journey, they are becoming increasingly aware of the gravity of their responsibilities. We urge you to support them during this challenging time by encouraging them to draw on their strengths, goals, and faith. Your support and belief in their abilities will undoubtedly boost their confidence.
- Reports and Reflection: All students have now received their reports, and we hope you had the opportunity to celebrate their successes and discuss areas for improvement with them. We believe that reflection is a crucial aspect of growth, and your guidance will further enhance their commitment to learning.
- Continued Support and Growth: As the term progresses, we promise to continue supporting our students in their academic and personal growth. Our dedication to their wellbeing and development remains steadfast, and we look forward to witnessing their achievements throughout the term.
Thank you for being an integral part of our vibrant school community. Together, we can make this term a memorable and enriching experience for all.
With blessings,
fAITH IN OUR COLLEGE
With the Name of Allah, the Infinitely Merciful, the Extremely Merciful.
Welcome back to Playford College! We pray this message finds you and your families in the best of health and spirits. As we begin another term of holistic education, we are excited to announce some exciting updates for our school community.
Learning from the Life of Imam Husayn and the Day of Ashura:
We began this term in the month of Muharram, and we aimed to centre some of the learning experiences around the life and teachings of Imam Husayn (peace be upon him) and the significant event of Ashura. Imam Husayn's unwavering dedication to God, compassion, and standing up against oppression serve as an everlasting beacon of guidance for all of us. By studying aspects of his life and sharing stories, we hope to instil the values of God consciousness, courage, empathy, and social responsibility in our students.
Pastoral Care on Fridays:
Pastoral Care sessions will continue, with the day for the program being moved to Fridays. These sessions will provide a safe and supportive environment for students to have halaqa discussions and engage in activities that are fun and develop their relationships with their peers. Our aim is to continue to foster God awareness, emotional well-being, and create a nurturing atmosphere where students can develop their character and resilience.
Visiting Scholar Sayyid Ali Imran:
We were honoured to have Sayyid Ali Imran from Canada joining our school community this year. He brought with him a wealth of knowledge and wisdom, and we are grateful for his teachings and guidance. Sayyid Ali Imran conducted sessions for students, offering valuable insights into Islamic teachings and contemporary issues. He also joined us for our Muharram program.
Continuing the Role of Parents as Nurturers:
As we embark on another year of growth and learning, we would like to remind parents of their invaluable role as nurturers. We, as educators, are part of the story when nurturing the lives of our students. The foundation of their character and values is laid within the family. We encourage parents to actively engage with their children's education, participate in school events, and reinforce the teachings of Islam at home.
Together, let us foster an environment of love, compassion, and knowledge, where our children can flourish as confident, compassionate, and responsible members of the community.
May Allah bless our endeavours, guide us on the path of righteousness, and grant us success in nurturing our children's souls and minds.
With duas,
From our CUSTODIANS
The beginning of a new semester marks a fresh start, presenting us with an opportunity to strive for excellence and enhance our personal growth. As we embark on this educational journey, we extend our heartfelt wishes of good fortune and success to all the students for the remainder of the year. As the semester unfolds, we encourage each and every student to make the most of their time here. Attend classes with diligence and actively participate in discussions. Seek help when needed and collaborate with peers to enhance their understanding. Dedicate time to self-study and engage in meaningful research. Remember, the knowledge and skills we acquire during this time will lay the foundation for your future endeavours.
In the past month, our school has had the privilege of hosting esteemed guests and scholars who have come to enlighten us. These individuals have graciously taken the time to share their knowledge and insights, allowing us to deepen our understanding and appreciation of our faith. One of the notable highlights of this period has been the opportunity to attend classes held at the Imam Ali Mosque. These classes have provided us with a unique chance to delve into the lives of our beloved prophets and gain a deeper understanding of their teachings and experiences. By attending these classes, we have been able to explore the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and other significant figures in Islamic history. We have learned about their struggles, triumphs, and the invaluable lessons they have left behind for us to ponder upon.
As we reflect on the past month, we are grateful for the opportunities we have been given to engage in meaningful discussions and gain a more comprehensive understanding of our religion. These encounters have not only broadened our knowledge but have also fostered a sense of unity and community among us. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the guests and scholars who have dedicated their time and expertise to enlighten us about Islam. Their contributions have had a profound impact on our spiritual journey, and we are truly grateful for their guidance.
With blessings, Nazish Abbas and Ayuba Kenneh, on behalf of the Custodians
pRIMARY SCHOOL UPDATES
Foundation - 100th Day of School
Recently, the Foundation students celebrated their 100th Day of School. Students made crowns, ate fairy bread with 100's and 1000's sprinkles, wrote about being 100 years old and turned themselves 100 years old with special 100 year old camera. 🎥
Year 1
In Science, the Year 1 students are learning about Earth and Space Sciences. Students learnt about the Sun's path in the sky, and as an activity, they went outside and drew where the Sun was in that moment. ☀️
Year 2 - Para Wirra Conservation Park Excursion
On Tuesday 8th of August, the Year 2 students journeyed to Para Wirra Conservation Park, where they learnt about different animals, from bugs to reptiles!
Below are snapshots of their adventure:
Guided Bush Walk
Students learnt about life cycles, skat, and went hunting for bugs! They observed their habitats and learned interesting facts about minibeasts.
Learning about lifecycles!
Hunting for bugs!
Looking at minibeasts through magnifying glasses!
Wildlife Show
Animals Anonymous presented an incredible, interactive show. The Year 2 students learnt so many interesting facts about these animals and had the opportunity to touch them all!
Year 1-4 Gymnastics Program
On Friday of week 1, the Year 1-4 students started their 4 week Gymnastics program, run by TriSkills, in their PE lessons.
Students were given the opportunity to explore the different equipment and try a range of movements and skills. Over the next 2 weeks students will continue to develop various fundamental movements and fine and gross motor skills.
Year 5/6 Boys SAPSASA Knockout Soccer
On Thursday 3rd of August, some Year 5 and 6 boys participated in a SAPSASA Knockout Soccer competition at Angle Vale Soccer and Community Club. Students were blessed with beautiful weather as they played with passion!
Year 6 - Adelaide Zoo Excursion
The Year 6 students are very pleased to be welcoming you all back for Term 3. The Year 6 cohort had the best and most memorable time at the Adelaide Zoo. This comes as part of the science unit for this term. Prior to participating in this excursion, the students prepared by learning more about the structural, physiological and behavioural adaptations of animals. While exploring the zoo, they went on a wild adventure full of asking questions and making observations. They also learnt to move past their fears about certain animals and reptiles. The zoo excursion was definitely a fun and real-life experience.
Below are snapshots of their adventure!
SECONDARY SCHOOL UPDATES - Sports filled Fortnight
Year 9 to 11 - Boys Basketball
The Year 9-11 boys competed in a recent basketball event against Murray Bridge and Birdwood College. Our students showed great effort all day. Well done on your performance boys!
Year 9/10 Girls Soccer - Modbury Jets F.C
The Year 9 and 10 girls competed in a recent soccer event against Banksia Park and Thomas More College. Our students showed great effort and sportsmanship during the day. Well done girls!
Physical Education Lessons - Pickleball
The secondary students have started playing the sport of Pickleball during PE lessons. The students are having fun and really enjoying this new sport!
Year 11/12 boys Soccer
The Year 11 and 12 boys played a soccer competition against Salisbury East High School and Banksia Park International. The results didn't go in our favour on the day but the effort and dedication was great to see!
Father's Day Breakfast and visiting classrooms
Dear fathers/dads/grandpas/older male friends,
Playford College is welcoming all fathers or father figures to a free breakfast on Friday, September 1st. For a variety of reasons some fathers may not be available on this morning and so students can invite a grandpa, older brother, uncle or another male to come instead.
It is difficult for fathers to visit school because of work and other commitments and the College wanted to create an opportunity for dads to see the school in action. Fathers will receive an invitation from their child/ren soon and we are asking fathers or father figures to reply so that we can cater appropriately.
From 8-9am, there will be a shared breakfast.
From 9-10am, there will be opportunities to visit classrooms.
The community hub
During the last week of Term 2, the Playford College Community Hub participants went to Fremont park to celebrate the end of term.
This term, we have some really fun activities running throughout the term such as this one. Join us with your little one to make friends and learn along with them. We are looking forward to seeing many new faces this term insha'Allah!
Counsellor's Corner
Loneliness is affecting young people’s mental health
Some current findings released by ReachOut show that one in two young people are feeling lonely which is affecting their mental health.
Feeling lonely has become the leading issue related to stress. It seemed to affect young people’s mental health and wellbeing (82%), mood changes (75%), sleep issues (64%), changes to appetite (30%) and difficulties with relationships (50%).
Adolescence is a rapid life stage. Relationships and connections are the most vital aspect of their life, and it is a necessary coping strategy and skill during this time. Therefore, failing in making connections within their family, community or school will lead them to feel lonely and being left out which will impact their mental health.
How young people who feel lonely may be feeling:
- Isolated from others
- Sad or down
- Think nobody cares about them
- Think that everyone is too busy to talk to them
- Think like there is something wrong with them
- Desperately desire connection and significant relationships.
Why do young people feel lonely?
People may feel lonely during:
- Mental illnesses like anxiety, depression or bipolar.
- Big life events such as moving houses
- Parent separation
- Transitioning from primary school into secondary school
- Friendship issues
- Cultural/language differences within the family
- Addiction to devices
- Involved in things that are not within their interests
How can parents help their teens feel less lonely?
- Strengthen their relationship with their teenagers by checking in on them every day, being available and present when they talk to them.
- Encourage them to talk to people they trust about their feelings.
- Let them think about their interests and encourage them to hang out with like-minded people.
- Having a pet may be helpful.
- Encourage them to accept any social invitations.
- Encourage them to find some volunteering opportunities.
- Develop relationships as parents with other parents such as inviting families with teenagers to visit their home and share meals.
- Validate their feelings of loneliness by telling them that everyone feels this way sometimes.
We run a parenting workshop every Thursday morning at our Community Hub at Playford College.
With blessings,
Health Direct Service Finder
Every winter there is an increase in demand on South Australia’s health system because of more sickness in the community.
- Healthdirect’s new Service Finder is free and can help people find a doctor, dentist, or healthcare specialist. The Service Finder is available in 16 languages.
- SA Health is working with healthdirect to promote its new Service Finder.
- We have launched a new campaign to reach multicultural communities in South Australia and promote the Service Finder.
You can find more information and resources in our campaign kit.
For more information, please email healthcommunications@sa.gov.au.
Term Dates
21/08/2023 to 25/08/2023 - Book Week
25/08/2023 - Book Week Parade
23/08/2023 to 25/08/2023 - Year 3 Camp
28/08/2023 - Science Week
31/08/23 to 01/09/23 - Fathers' Day Stall
01/09/2023 - Fathers' Day Breakfast + Visiting Classrooms
04/09/2023 - Primary Swimming Week Begins
11/09/2023 to 15/09/2023 - Year 9 Camp
29/09/2023 - End of Term 3
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