From the Principal’s desk
Welcome to Term One!
I hope you all had a wonderful holiday and are feeling refreshed! As we start a new school year, I am excited about what lies ahead. It’s great to welcome back our returning families and to greet those who are new to our school.
This year is going to be full of fun learning experiences, new friendships, and chances to grow. Our dedicated teachers have been preparing their classrooms and planning exciting lessons to inspire our students and encourage a love for learning. We are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where every child can succeed.
We have already started the year with a bang and our students are settled and focused.
Due to our increased student numbers, we’ve made a few changes this year…
WELCOME MR.TURNER
Firstly, we have now grown to a 5th class, and we are very excited to welcome Mr Ned Turner as a permanent member of our teaching staff. Mr Turner has fitted right into the Rylstone groove, and it feels like he’s been here forever, not just a couple of weeks!
ASSEMBLY CHANGE
We’ve also had to change how we format our Friday afternoon assemblies as we are too big to all fit in our hall together. We now run alternate weeks, and have a Primary assembly for grades 3, 4, 5 & 6 and an Infants assembly for grades Kinder, 1 & 2.
Primary assembly is held on EVEN school weeks and Infants assemblies are held on ODD school weeks.
END OF YEAR PLAY / PRESENTATION NIGHT
A big change this year involves our Annual School Play. After discussions with our Director of Educational Leadership and then further consultation with our P&C, it has been decided that our Annual Play will now be held in the last week of Term Three on Thursday 25th September, and will be held during the day at Rylstone Memorial Hall.
This decision has been made for a multitude of reasons and while we acknowledge it’s a big change for the tradition of our school; we feel it will be better for everyone involved.
This will also mean that we will hold ONE Awards Presentation assembly at the end of the year, again during the day and at the Rylstone Memorial Hall. This will be held on Friday 12th December.
PARENTS WAITING IN THE PLAYGROUND
There has been an increase in parents arriving very early at school to collect students, and they are waiting directly outside classrooms. I’d like to ask that all parents wait in either the front gate area or the COLA area to collect your children. Students are very easily distracted and lose focus if they notice parents outside.
If you are dropping children off late to school or taking them from class early, we ask you to go to the front office. Students need to be signed in and out, someone from the office will collect your child from the class for you. Please don’t go directly into classrooms to collect your children, again its very disruptive to class.
MEET THE TEACHER
Thank you to everyone who came along on Tuesday night to our Meet the Teacher evening. It was great to have so many people here to chat about our school. Thankyou to our P&C for organising a fabulous supper. Thank you to the teachers who put in a long day to make sure everyone had a chance to meet them and see their child’s classroom.
COMMUNICATION
Just a friendly reminder that Class Dojo or Facebook are not the places to report student absences. Please use the Sentral app or call the office. Sentral is the official communication platform and is checked regularly, messages on Class Dojo may not be seen by teachers in time.
BUS AND HOME ROUTINES
At RPS, the safety and wellbeing of our students is our top priority. To maintain a secure environment, we need your assistance in keeping us informed about any changes that may affect your child’s daily routine, particularly regarding who is authorised to pick them up.
Why is this important?
1. Safety First: Changes in pickup arrangements can pose safety risks if we are not informed. By notifying us of any alterations, we can ensure that your child is only released to individuals you have designated, keeping them safe. We may stop an adult from collecting a child if we have not been informed of the change.
2. Clear Communication: Regular updates help us maintain clear communication between home and school. If there are changes in who will be picking up your child, please inform us in advance to avoid any confusion.
3. Emergency Situations: In the event of an emergency, knowing who is authorised to pick up your child allows us to act swiftly and appropriately.
4. Bus lines: It is challenging ensuring all children are going on the correct bus on the appropriate day. If we have not been formally informed otherwise, children who catch the bus home will be put on the bus and not permitted to leave school in any other manner.
What to do if there are changes?
· Please contact the school office at 6379 1404 or message on Sentral to inform us of any changes to your child’s pickup routine.
· It is essential to provide the names and contact information of all authorised individuals.
· If a last-minute change is necessary, please ensure you communicate this to the school as soon as possible.
We appreciate your cooperation in this matter. Together, we can ensure a safe and secure environment for all our students. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out.
SWIMMING CARNIVAL
Thank you to Mrs Rankin for again organising a wonderful Swimming Carnival. The day was so much fun, and the weather was great! Thank you to the many parent helpers who came along on the day. We wish everyone who made it to Zone next week all the best of luck!
SCHOOL PHOTOS
Thursday 27th Feb is School Photo Day. To allow us to look our very best, we have swapped sports day to Wednesday for that week. Please wear your sports uniform on Wednesday for next week. Wear your full correct SUMMER UNFORM on Thursday 27th for photos. We will go back to regular sports days the week after.
We are already month into the new school year, let’s work together to create a positive and welcoming environment for our students. We’re excited to partner with you in your child’s education and look forward to a fantastic year ahead!
We encourage all families to get involved in our school community. Your support and participation are important for the success of our programs and events. Please keep an eye on our school calendar and newsletters for updates on activities and volunteer opportunities.
As always, any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me on 6379 1404 or jodee.burcher@det.nsw.edu.au
Kind regards,
Jodee
First Day 2025
In the classrooms
Kookaburras
What a fantastic start we've had with the Kindy Kookaburras!
All the students have settled in beautifully, and we're already discovering so much. We're starting to learn our sounds and have begun sounding out, writing, and reading our first words. We're diligently working on writing numbers 1 to 10 and practicing our counting skills.
In Science, we've enjoyed starting to learn about the weather and have so many curious questions about why and how things happen. We've also made friendship bracelets and made a pledge to always follow the expectations in Kindy Kookaburras. Our bracelets have five colours: pink for kindness, blue for respect, green for support, purple for caring, and red for celebrating. We're committed to trying our best to be kind, respectful, caring, supportive, and celebrating each other's successes.
On Monday, we had the pleasure of helping Mrs. Lus in the garden. We picked a bountiful apple crop, and the apples were delicious. We also tried some tomatoes and raspberries, although some of us aren't big tomato fans.
As you can see, we're off to a flying start and truly enjoying our time in big school. We're a bit tired at the end of the day but thrilled to learn new things every day. I'm really looking forward to an exciting and fun-filled term!
Mrs. Rankin
Goannas
Goannas Galore!
All the 1/2 Goannas have settled in wonderfully this term and are working hard in all their activities! Our focus on the Australian goanna has been both fun and educational. The students have not only learned about our namesake but have also created some fantastic artworks inspired by these fascinating creatures.
In addition to our art projects, the class has been busy writing information reports on goannas, showcasing their research skills and creativity. It's been a joy to see the enthusiasm and curiosity the students have for learning!
As we move into our regular timetable, we are eager to dive into new subjects and activities that will further enrich our learning experience.
Mrs Grant
Quolls
What a QUOLLity start we’ve had to 2025! All of the students in 1/2 Quolls have settled in well and are preparing themselves for a fantastic year.
We learned about quolls with great enthusiasm. We even had one of our students bring in a taxidermied quoll to enhance our understanding.
We’ve been spending lots of time practicing new learning routines in Maths and English, completing artwork for the Rylstone Show and making our new classroom a positive space to be in every day!
This week we also had a special visitor who taught us about coding BlueBot robots. What a treat! It was a great way to link our Mathematics learning about position.
Mrs Mulvaney
Kangaroos
The students in 3/4K have had a fantastic start to the year, settling in beautifully and embracing new learning opportunities. They have enjoyed writing their own first-person narratives, building confidence in counting beyond 10,000, and showcasing their creativity through incredible artworks. Fitness has been a highlight, with students eagerly participating in activities that keep them active and engaged. They have also been using QR codes to check in with their learning goals, fostering independence and reflection. It’s wonderful to see their enthusiasm and growth already!
They are excited for the fantastic learning experiences ahead this term. Looking forward to exploring Minecraft Education, where they will develop problem-solving and creativity in a digital world. In Science, they will investigate the fascinating life cycles of plants and animals, deepening their understanding of the natural world. Meanwhile, in PE, they are eager to begin basketball, building skills in teamwork, coordination, and game strategy. It’s wonderful to see their enthusiasm as they embrace new challenges and opportunities for growth!
Mr Turner
Magpies
We have had a great start to 2025. All students have been settled and involved in everything. Students have been thinking about their learning and what they're looking forward to this year.
- I am looking forward to the play.
- This year I am looking forward to learning how to get better at times tables.
- I'm looking forward to getting better and smarter at spelling and getting my kindergarten buddy.
- This year I'm looking forward to the easter egg parade.
- I am looking forward to learning more about computers.
- This year I am looking forward to learning more about using technology.
- I am looking forward to doing my final year of primary school.
- I am looking forward to this year learning more about my times tables and division and also acting for the play.
- Getting my buddy, whoever they may be. I am also excited to vote for captain, prefect and sport captains.
- I am looking forward to my final year of primary school (but also a bit nervous)!
- All of the excursions that we are going on this year.
- I'm looking forward to acting in the end of year play as one of the main cast members.
- This year I am looking forward to all of my prefect duties and having another great year at Rylstone public school.
- I am looking forward to learning new things and letting my mind be free, embracing all the new things that I learn.
- I'm looking forward to excursions.
- This year l am looking forward to becoming a senior and doing all the big speeches, helping and being a big buddy.
- This year I am looking forward to the last year of primary school and going to high school,
- I am also looking forward to helping students and teachers with getting out sports equipment and setting up for sports activities and carnivals.
- This year I am looking forward to all of the carnivals & the play at the end of the year.
- The more opportunities in sport like how I get to run 3km in cross country this year.
- I'm looking forward to helping others with their learning and hosting all the assemblies this year. I also want to reach western in all the sports carnivals.
- I’m looking forward to the whole school excursion.
- Art and sport carnivals with friends.
Mrs Newham
House Captains 2025
Swimming Carnival
What a wonderful swimming carnival we had! It was truly a joy to see all the students participate and push themselves beyond what they thought was possible. The camaraderie and fellowship among the students were exceptional. A heartfelt thank you to all the parent volunteers; we simply couldn't run such a successful carnival without your support. Additionally, a big thank you to all the staff—your assistance always ensures that the carnival runs smoothly.
Wishing the best of luck to the students who have been chosen to represent the school at the swimming carnival in Gulgong on Wednesday, February 26th.
In the Garden
SRC
Congratulations to our SRC representatives who have been voted in by their class peers as responsible members of our school. Due to our growing numbers, this year we decided to select two students from each grade. They will meet a few times a term to discuss fund raising, activities for break times and sharing ideas to make our school an even better place for all.
1/2 Quolls - Maggie and Charlotte
1/2 Goannas - Jude and Luy
3/4 Kangaroos -Ryker, Dotti, Abbi and Kirsten
5 Magpies - Rebecca Rankin and Pat Regan
Mrs Newham will be coordinating the SRC this year.
Sentral
Please remember that Sentral is the go to place for all school information, permission requests, school payments, absences, newsletters, Parent Teacher Interviews.
Please note that SMS messages sent via Sentral from our school will come from a random phone number but we will always start our message with RylstonePS or RPS. We have limited characters use so messages may be brief and to the point.
Sentral Parent Help pages: https://www.sentral.com.au/parents
Please keep up to date with your child's absence explanations, as unexplained absences, as well as total absences, will be mentioned on your child's report. Red on your child's attendance calendar indicates we do not have an explanation.
Dates for your calendar
Don't forget you can find these dates on your Sentral Calendar too.
February
- 22nd - Rylstone Kandos Show
- 25th - Mudgee Wombats
- 26th - Zone Swimming
- 26th - Intensive Swimming Program Starts
- 26th - Permission due for Young Leaders Sydney and GRIP Bathurst
- 27th - School Photos
March
- 12th - NAPLAN starts
- 19th - Life Education
- 20th - Life Education
- 24th - All Hands on Ukes
- 25th - Young Leaders Sydney
- 26th - GRIP Bathurst
- 26th - Parent/Teacher interview bookings open
April
- 7th - Parent/Teacher interviews
- 11th - Last Day of Term 1
- 18th - Good Friday
- 20th - Easter Sunday
- 25th - Anzac Day
- 30th - First Day of Term 2
Reminders
- Students arriving late or departing early MUST come to the office to sign in/out.
- Parent helpers must sign in at the office for WH&S.
- Payments to school (not P&C) can be made online via Sentral Pay with a debit or credit card, or cash can be sent in an envelope to the school office. The school does not have an EFTPOS machine.
- Please check your child's attendance on the Sentral app and keep up to date with absence explanations. Explanations are required within 7 days of an absence. A text message will be sent if your child is absent and you haven't submitted an explanation.
- School Drive Subsidy and bus transport: Please keep your details current and notify the Dept. of Transport of any address changes at www.transportnsw.info/school-students
P and C News
Uniform Shop
The shop is open on Friday afternoons 3:20-3:45pm but don’t forget you can shop anytime 24/7 via our online shop and your order will be sent home with your child: https://rylstone-public-school-parents-and-citizens-association.square.site/
Rylstone PS Before and After School Care
Stewart House Fundraising
Parents and Carers
Rylstone Public School and the NSW Department of Education support Stewart House, recognising it as an essential charity that transforms children’s lives. Each family at Rylstone PS has received an envelope through their eldest child. Stewart House is conducting a raffle for a chance to win a $4,000 travel voucher. Entry costs $2, which can be placed in the provided envelope and returned to the school. The funds raised go towards offering a residential program at no cost to children across NSW and the ACT.
“Each year, 1,600 public school children in need come to Stewart House from many parts of NSW and the ACT. During their stay, children are provided with optometric, dental and medical treatment as well as emotional support. This is balanced with health and educational programs and out of school activities to boost their self-esteem and promote a healthier lifestyle.”
Source - https://www.stewarthouse.org.au/about-stewart-house/
Families can choose to fill out the details on the back of the envelope and simply include $2 before returning it to the school. Alternatively, a QR code on the envelope allows for online donations. Regardless of the donation method, please ensure the details on the back of the envelope are completed before returning it to school. The envelopes will then be mailed back to Stewart House in time for the draw on MAY 23, 2025.