Head of Preparatory School
Please note that all Upcoming Events for Prep are now on their own Note Day article/page.
This Head of Preparatory School page will consist of general information from the Head of Preparatory School.
Week 3
As we come to the close of Week 3, it is lovely to see the children beginning to settle into school routines after a long, summer break. Together with their teacher, the classes have discussed important goals for themselves and collectively for the classroom, such as the positive behaviours required for learning. You may have seen these in classrooms, the Library or in the playground already. You will also notice the Let Your Light Shine board outside the office filled with colourful prompts for the students about playground conduct, with pictures to aid in understanding. I encourage all parents to discuss these with their children in an effort to emphasise the messages of positive classroom and playground behaviour. As the youngest group at Redlands, the Early Childhood students have an extensive journey toward the conclusion of their school life. However, it is this journey that paves the way to the achievements that are so rewarding at the end of Yr 12. Last Monday saw the School celebrate the wonderful achievements of the top HSC and IB students from the Class of 2019, receiving their commendation in front of staff, parents and the seniors of 2020. The student reflections, highlighted the importance of balancing the rigours of academic studies with cocurricular activities. For many students, continuing with their Dance, Sport and Drama activities, assists with the pressures of the final year. This is a pertinent message for all as we begin school for the year; ensuring children have a balanced school life, filled with down time, cocurricular and academic learning.
We welcomed Principal, Mr Webber to Prep Assembly last Thursday. Mr Webber delighted the students with stories about his favourite things, one of which is the Kookaburra. He went on to explain that the Kookaburra’s laugh reminded him of the importance to remain positive and happy. Mr Webber also emphasised the significance of kindness and friendship as we embark on a new school year. This week, Prep School students listened to important information about safe, respectful and responsible online procedures with Mrs Agonostu, e-Learning Facilitator. You might hear students talking about when visiting places online or using the internet for activities, we always ask our parent (or teacher) first, only talk to people we know and remain in places that are just right for us. It is never too young to hear this type of information and I thank Mrs Agonostu, Mrs Kourakis and the e-Learning team for their knowledge and insight in this area.
Drop Offs
It has been a lovely start to the year for the Prep School and I congratulate the Kindergarten students in particular for their approach to learning and the resilience they are already displaying as they prepare for school each morning. It is so wonderful to see parents and carers connect on the Piazza; however, I do ask that you move from the Piazza immediately after the students enter their classroom. For those students who are continuing to find the goodbyes difficult, seeing their carer or other parents still on campus when they move from class to class can cause those emotions to reignite, so I ask for your assistance in this regard. I encourage you to continue those bonds with families and our community by perhaps utilising the lovely cafes in the surrounding streets. As a reminder please do not drop your children off before 8.00am as there is no teacher on duty.
Kiss and Drop
Our wonderful Kiss and Drop initiative is open to Prep School students from 8.00am. We respectfully ask that you do not drop off earlier than this as there are no staff or Prefects here before this time.
Contacting Redlands Preparatory Reception
To ensure we are able to respond to all emails in a timely manner, could I please remind all parents to send correspondence to prep@redlands.nsw.edu.au . Mrs Rosling and Mrs Hunt share the role at Prep Reception and therefore sending correspondence to either one of their addresses may result in an email being overlooked.
Year/Class Parent Representatives
This year, class parents in each Year Group will work more closely together to create greater community connection by organising events across the Year Group. If you are interested in being a class parent, the RPFA welcomes parents to volunteer for the following classes by emailing prep@redlands.nsw.edu.au. The class parent guidelines can be found on Redlands Pulse, however, if you have any questions about the role please contact prep@redlands.nsw.edu.au.
Staff News
Next week we farewell Madame Eggenschwiller who has been teaching French in the Prep School whilst Madame Merlot has been on Maternity Leave. Madame Merlot is expected to return at the beginning of Term 2 and in the interim Madame Haverhals will be teaching French in the Preschool and Prep School. The students who have been at Redlands House will be familiar with Madame Haverhals as their Environmental Studies and French teacher. Thank you to Madame Eggenschwiller and we wish her all the best as she takes on a full-time role in a Preschool.
Every Little Bit Helps
Looking for a place to give your unused travel toiletries? Look no further… place all items in the red bin at Prep or Junior Reception. We will be donating to the charity Every Little Bit Helps who shares with organisations who support people in need in our community. Last day for collection Wednesday 26 February.
Twilight in the Piazza
I look forward to seeing you at Twilight in the Piazza, our first parent event for the year on Friday 21 February. The invitation can be found on the Upcoming Events page.
Mrs Audrey Fellowes
Head of Preparatory School
afellowes@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9968 9848