Eastern Fleurieu School R-12 Newsletter Week 7 Term 2 2025

R-12

Principal’s Report

Enhancing Student Success through Global Insights

As a proud recipient of the 2024 Commonwealth Bank Schools Plus Leadership in Education Award, I recently participated in the Singapore Study Tour from 18 to 22 May 2025. This enriching experience offered valuable insights into innovative educational practices that align with the Department for Education (DfE) and Eastern Fleurieu School (EFS) Education Strategies, focusing on student success and wellbeing.

Learning from Singapore's Educational Excellence

The study tour aimed to explore the Singaporean education system, with a focus on cultural contexts, system-level structures, and leadership strategies. A highlight was visiting Pathlight School, Singapore's first autism-focused institution. Pathlight's integration of the national curriculum with life readiness skills for students on the autism spectrum provided inspiring insights into supporting diverse learners and fostering independence.

Visits to the National Institute of Education (NIE) and the Academy of Singapore Teachers further highlighted the importance of preparing future-ready learners. We explored effective strategies for enhancing student wellbeing and motivation, which are crucial components of our educational goals at Eastern Fleurieu.

Aligning with Our Educational Strategies

The insights gained from the study tour align closely with our commitment to student success. By integrating these innovative practices, we aim to enhance our curriculum, support diverse learning needs, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Our focus on student wellbeing, explicit instruction, and differentiation will be instrumental in preparing our students for future challenges and opportunities.

Upcoming Educational Engagements

We are excited to host 38 Education Delegates from Indonesia on Wednesday, 18^th June. Our school has been recommended by the Chief Executive, Martin Westwell, for our outstanding work on Deep Learning, Student Agency, and Effective Learning.

The following day, we will welcome over 50 Principals and Leaders from the Fleurieu and Vines Education Partnership in the PAC. This gathering will provide an opportunity to share good practices and stay updated on DfE initiatives.

These engagements reflect our ongoing efforts to lead transformational change and enhance our educational offerings, ensuring that our students continue to thrive in a supportive and innovative learning environment.

Regards,
Ian Kent
Principal
Eastern Fleurieu R-12 School

Term Dates 2025

Eastern Fleurieu School R-12 Important dates

Future calendar dates to note

Term 3

Friday 29/08      Student Free Day / Staff Training Day
Monday 01/09   School Closure Day

Term 4

Friday 14/11       Student Free Day / Staff Training Day

School Card 2025

 School fees are now due. If you are eligible for school card please fill out the attached form below. If you are unsure of eligibility, or would like assistance with this process, please contact your campus Finance Officer on 8536 2455.

National Reconciliation Week 2025 at Eastern Fleurieu School

The week began with a Morning Tea organised by our SAASTA students, who extended warm invitations to staff, students, and community members. This gathering created a space to yarn, reflect, and connect over delicious food. A special highlight was the menu curated by Lydia, featuring recipes that incorporated native ingredients. These dishes were expertly prepared by Ms Maple and her students, and the result was nothing short of spectacular. Lydia and Ivan bravely shared about their learning, personal reflections and experiences related to Reconciliation Week, offering powerful insights that resonated deeply with all who attended.

Throughout the week, the school was adorned with Whole School Artwork Displays, showcasing thoughtful reflections written on leaves. These were beautifully presented in the R–6 Front Office and the 7–12 Library, serving as visual reminders of the importance of reconciliation and the voices of our students.

At Langhorne Creek, students collaborated on a whole school artwork, and classes across R-12 participated in door displays, each reflecting their learning and understanding of reconciliation. These displays were visited by Mr Kent, Mrs Coker, Shaan (ACEO), Emma (First Nations Leader), and Ivan (Year 12 Leader), who toured both the R–6 and 7–12 campuses to appreciate the creativity and thoughtfulness of the students.

A colouring competition for primary students brought out incredible talent and effort, with vibrant entries that celebrated First Nations culture. Winners of both the door displays and colouring competition will be announced in Week 7.

In Junior Primary, students engaged in rich learning experiences through Outdoor Education with Donna Prusa. They read Welcome to Country by Aunty Joy Murphy and Lisa Kennedy, discussed its themes, and explored the metaphor of bridges—both physical and emotional. Students then constructed their own bridges using natural materials and tested their strength, linking hands-on learning with deep cultural understanding. They also learned a song in Ngarrindjeri and a celebratory dance, further embracing and honouring First Nations culture.

This year’s NRW theme and activities encouraged our school community to reflect, learn, and act. The week was a testament to the power of shared stories, cultural pride, and the ongoing journey of reconciliation.

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Community News

Tickets: 

Registrations due by Friday, 13th June 2025.

ASHBOURNE CAMPUS

14 Ashbourne Road, Ashbourne SA 5157 Ph: 8536 2455

Head of Campus Report

As we reach the midpoint of the term, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on our progress and share our continued focus for the remainder of the term.

Our commitment to fostering a learning environment that prioritises personal growth and academic excellence remains our priority. Our students continue to build on their personal character skills, collaboration, and critical thinking. These skills are essential for our students' success, both in and out of the classroom.

Improving literacy and numeracy skills continues to be a primary focus in both classrooms. The teaching staff are implementing targeted strategies to support each student's learning journey, ensuring that they have the tools and confidence to excel.

We encourage all students to engage actively in their learning and take advantage of the resources and support available to them. Parents and caregivers, your involvement and encouragement play a crucial role in your child's educational experience, and we thank you for your ongoing support.

The Ashbourne community is truly a testament to the power of care and support. It is heart-warming to witness families engaging in conversations after school, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. These interactions often extend beyond the school grounds, as families organise and share outside activities that bring their children together. This spirit of collaboration and mutual support enriches our community, creating a nurturing environment where every student and family feels valued and connected.

As we move forward, let's continue to work together to create a positive and enriching environment for all our students.

Regards,
Rebekah Fahey
Head of Campus

Bush Playgroup

Our Bush Playgroup continues to thrive, thanks to the wonderful and supportive mums who make it such a special experience. Under the care and dedication of Kerry, the playgroup offers a nurturing environment where babies and toddlers can explore and learn every Tuesday morning.

The children delight in a variety of activities, including playing with musical instruments, hunting for insects, sorting nature items, building with blocks, engaging in crafts, and enjoying a story. These activities not only entertain but also support the development of essential skills in a fun and interactive way.

We are grateful for the community spirit that makes our playgroup a welcoming and enriching space for all.

Bush School Visiting Class

We were thrilled to welcome a visiting class from the Strathalbyn R-6 campus to our Bush School. Zoe Harrland’s Year 3 class. The day began with a warm welcome circle and an Acknowledgement of Country, setting a respectful tone for the activities ahead. Students participated in a variety of engaging activities, including campfire damper cooking, scrub play and cubby building, and clay making where they crafted jar toppers for propagating plants, nature critters and water colour painting. A silent spot allowed students to listen to and embrace the sounds of nature, fostering mindfulness and appreciation for the environment. The day concluded with a whole school game of "Web of Life," reinforcing the interconnectedness of all living things and highlighting the importance of community and collaboration.

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Week 5 Assembly and Assembly awards

We had a wonderful turn out for last week’s assembly, thank you to all the parents for joining the assembly. Hakea class did an excellent job of running the assembly. The students from both classes shared their Bush school nocturnal animal posters, the clay people they made with Gaynor, their story writing and their Reconciliation reflections.  It is always special to see the students learning achievements.

There were seven awards presented this week, for Character and Collaboration. Well done to Marshall, Bradley, Johnny, Grace, Daisy, Evan and Kianna.

Recess and Lunch Play

During recess and lunch, our students make the most of our beautiful natural environment, engaging in play that encourages teamwork and mutual care. By working together, they not only enjoy their time outdoors but also build excellent social connections. These interactions foster a sense of community and help students develop important social skills, as they learn to support and care for one another in a fun and inclusive setting.

Lucy

Every Friday, Lucy, Rebekah's delightful Border collie, joins us at school, much to the students' delight. Her presence has a calming effect, helping students with emotional regulation and enhancing their overall wellbeing. Lucy's friendly and gentle nature makes her a beloved member of our school community, providing comfort and joy to everyone she meets.

SANFL Football Clinic

Tom Wheaton ran an afternoon football clinic in Week 3, all the students joined in, embracing the experience and having fun with Tom and their peers. Tom’s energetic and calming nature had all the students engaged. He taught them how to handball and kick, and played a few fun warm up games with the students. There was a lot of laughter and smiles throughout the session. Thank you Tom.

Japanese Children’s Day (Kodomo no Hi)

We were delighted to have Lola, one of our wonderful Temporary Relief Teachers (TRTs), share her knowledge about Japanese Children's Day, known as Kodomo no Hi, with our students. During this engaging lesson, students learned about the cultural significance of the day and participated in creating Koinobori, or carp streamers. This hands-on activity not only enriched their understanding of Japanese culture but also sparked creativity and excitement among the students.

National Reconciliation Week

During National Reconciliation Week, our students engaged in a meaningful project by creating leaves that symbolised their personal reconciliation journeys. Titled "Bridging Now to Next," this activity encouraged students to express, in their own words, what reconciliation means to them currently and how they envision their journey moving forward. This reflective exercise not only deepened their understanding of reconciliation but also inspired thoughtful discussions about building a more inclusive and respectful future.

LANGHORNE CREEK CAMPUS

Bridge Road, Langhorne Creek SA 5255    Ph: 8536 2455

Head of Campus Report

I am pleased to share the positive atmosphere that is prevalent in our classrooms. Our students have been focused and settled, creating an excellent environment for their learning. This term has been a buzz with a variety of learning tasks across year levels.

This term staff were successful in applying for a Landcare Spring Grant. These funds will be used to purchase a watering system and shelving for our propagation shed. We will purchase some more garden tools for student use, in our school garden.

Students enjoyed a milo and muffin for the biggest morning tea, on the back veranda of the admin building. Thank you to our families for sending in a gold coin donation for cancer research. Events like this are a wonderful way to involve our school community to join us.

We are pleased to have a new student joining us for transition to school from kindergarten. We look forward to Isla joining us in the Kind Koala classroom at the start of Term 3. During Reconciliation Week we have been actively engaging in activities that promote understanding and respect. Our Week 5 assembly was well attended, with a focus on Reconciliation week showcasing the various activities our students participated in.

Well done to Archie, Connor and Isaac for representing Langhorne Creek Campus in sports events in football and athletics. Their dedication and sportsmanship are to be commended.

A group of students R-6 attended our local HUB Morning Tea to share their work. R-2 shared their underwater dioramas and 3-6 shared their learnings about Reconciliation.  It was great to see their artistic talent and shared understanding of this important cultural week.

Our CAC (Campus Advisory Committee) representatives are diligently working towards our next working bee and fundraising efforts for a playground upgrade. These initiatives are crucial for enhancing our school facilities and providing better opportunities for our students.

Overall, it has been a fantastic term so far, and I am looking forward to our continuing collaborative efforts across the campus with students, families and staff. Your support and involvement are invaluable to our success.

Regards,
Les Cameron
Head of Campus

Reconciliation Week

We acknowledged Reconciliation Week at Langhorne Creek. We worked together as a campus doing various activities to recognise our First Nation's history.

One of the activities included a collaborative colouring in. The art work was created by our own Ms Cameron, a proud Ngarrindjeri women. The backstory is about our Langhorne Creek school and community. She has been inspired by students, staff and our community over her time working at Langhorne Creek campus. We also made friendship bracelets, did some bark painting, had a sausage sizzle lunch and shared our work at our assembly to parents.

At Langhorne Creek we are all committed to ensuring a kinder future for all Australians. 

I liked making the bracelets   - Casey
I am proud of my bark   - Kyle 
It was fun doing all the learning   - Ada 
I loved our assembly and reading the Dreaming about how birds got their colours   - Will 
I liked colouring in Ms Cameron's artwork   - Mila

BIGGEST Morning Tea

Last week our campus had a fabulous morning tea, in fact, The BIGGEST Morning Tea! We all brought in money to donate towards cancer research fundraising and we got to have a milo and a muffin. We raised $110 to help with research. We also did some learning about research and how if we all work together, we can make a difference. Thanks to Student Representative Council for organising the event. - Piper

National Simultaneous Story Time

We listened to 'The Truck Cat' by Deborah Frenkel for National Simultaneous Storytime on Wednesday, 21^st May. After reading the story at the same time that schools all across Australia did, we built our own trucks for our own animals. We then used this to inspire us to write some stories about the adventures they would go on. We all enjoyed this a lot and it was fun to work as a whole campus to create a storybook.

Maths with the Kind Koalas

We have been learning all about numbers, place value and partitioning in our class. We have been practising how to break up numbers into tens and ones. We worked in partners and pretended to be chefs cooking the numbers that our partner's ordered. It was a lot of fun!

Assembly

Congratulations to our Week 5 Assembly Award receivers.

Playgroup

Please join us at Playgroup at Langhorne Creek Campus on Friday mornings, 9:00am to 11:30am.

MILANG CAMPUS

Cnr Cox and Rivers Street, Milang SA 5256     Ph: 8536 2455

Head of Campus Report

As we find ourselves already midway through Term 2, it's remarkable how quickly time is flying by. Our students have been busily engaged in a variety of learning experiences this term and are looking forward to the upcoming Student Creation Market.

The Milang Campus celebrated the annual South Australian History Festival with a visit to the Port Milang Museum and the Butter Factory. Each of these facilities offers a unique glimpse into the history that has shaped the Milang community. We are incredibly fortunate to have these pieces of history preserved, thanks to the dedication and passion of our local volunteers. 

We particularly enjoyed seeing the old headmaster’s desk and the original typewriter from our school at the Port Milang Museum, and it was great to see the bottles that our students have unearthed in the schoolyard displayed at the Butter Factory as part of their archaeological exhibit. This experience has enriched our appreciation for the history that surrounds us and the efforts of those who work tirelessly to preserve it.

As we continue through this busy term, our students remain enthusiastic and engaged in their learning. The activities and experiences they are participating in are not only educational but also provide them with a broader understanding of their community and its history. We look forward to the exciting events and learning opportunities that lie ahead for the last four weeks of term.

Regards,
Merran Jolley
Head of Campus

Playgroup

Junior Primary Learning

With the Student Creation Market not too far away, the Junior Primary class have been busily preparing for our stall. Our objective was to design a racetrack using lots of cardboard packing material. Once we had all agreed upon a design, our next job was to assemble our tracks using lots of glue! Finally, we then had to paint our tracks. We hope everyone enjoys using our racetracks at the Student Creation Market.

The Year 3 students have been practicing how to read a picture book to an audience. Each week, each student chooses a picture book and then practices reading the story several times during the week. They have to make sure they can read all the tricky words, read the text fluently and use expression to make their storytelling fun to listen to. They are doing a great job and the younger students love listening to their stories.

The students always enjoy having a story read to them as well.  Truck Cat was the book for Simultaneous Story time this year.

Upper Primary Learning

Chemistry

Students explored the wonders of chemistry with Trudy with a colourful experiment called Magic Milk.  Using milk, food colouring and dishwashing liquid, they watched in amazement as the colours moved across the surface.  A great way to learn about surface tension and see science in action.

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HASS

The Upper Primary class recently visited Lake Alexandrina as part of their learning in HASS. Students surveyed the foreshore and recorded the animals, plants, pollution and man- made structures.

Library Box

The Year 6’s continue to work on their Library box, cleaning it, priming it, drawing their design and painting it. 

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Bonnie

Happenings at Milang

During Reconciliation week the students enjoyed a whole school activity where they decorated coffee filters and used water to blend the colours to make waves for the lake.  They then coloured the fish and together made a beautiful display. The Ngarrindjeri had a deep spiritual connection to the lake and it was considered a sacred place.  The fish in the lake provided an important source of food.

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Enjoy the photos from our History excursions.

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Reminders from Donna

Book Club

Orders due back Friday, 20^th June.

Note Folders

Please remember to send in your child’s note folders to the class every day.  If you cannot find your child’s from last year please let me know and I will send home a new one.

Personal Data

These forms were sent out with your beginning of the year notes and invoices in mid January.  I only need them returned if there are changes to be made. 

Attendance 

Please always contact the school if your child is late, call or come in and sign a yellow slip.  Also if your child is away or someone else is picking them up.  If we don’t hear from you your child’s absence is marked as unexplained.  A message from another student is not enough, we need to hear from a parent. If you are picking your child up early please come into the office and complete a green slip. 

Please continue to follow the guidelines for keeping us all safe.  If you need to come on site, please ensure you are sanitising when entering any buildings. Keep your visits brief and social distance at all times. 

STRATHALBYN R-6 CAMPUS

34 East Terrace, Strathalbyn SA 5255     Ph: 8536 2455

Heads of Campus Report

National Reconciliation Week is an opportunity for Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements. At Eastern Fleurieu School we encourage students to think about actions they can take today to support reconciliation. Our site proudly displays students' learning, reflections, and connections, celebrating the culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.  The National Reconciliation theme for 2025 is “Bridging Now to Next,” which encourages us to reflect, connect, and take meaningful steps forward together while reflecting the ongoing connection between past, present and future. Throughout the week, students have engaged in various activities which included our Room 20 Reception/Year 1 class sharing their Acknowledgement of Country at Assembly, classes engaged in storytelling sessions, art projects and an invitation for all classes to decorate their 'classroom entry', encouraging the students to get creative whilst thinking about the reasons behind Reconciliation.

Collecting Your Student Early

If your child/children are needing early collection, please remember to go to the Front Office and our admin staff, will ring over to class teachers and students will walk over to be signed out and collected. We ask for the adult collecting student(s) to pop into the office so our students are accompanied when heading to their car in carpark.

We would also like to remind all parents and carers that our school day begins with teachers on duty from 8:25am.

Semester One Reports

On the last day of school, our Semester One reports will go home with students in a sealed envelope.

How do I read my child’s report

Our front page focuses on your child, highlighting their voice through student comments, competency assessments, and the teacher's general comment. It also includes your child's attendance, late arrivals, and teacher signatures

The second page is dedicated to learning. We've included literacy and numeracy comments, along with word equivalent grades and effort. All Specialist and other curriculum areas are listed below. For parents of our newest reception students, please note that, in accordance with the Department of Education policy, your child is not graded in their first year of school, and you will see NA (Not Applicable) in the grade section. Occasionally, students in Years 1-6 may also have NA if they attend intervention, have a modified program, or work with outside school providers during these lessons.

Indicators for Academic Achievement

For your information, we have included how our word equivalent grade aligns with the year level standard. For instance, Satisfactory corresponds to a C grade, indicating the student is at the Year Level Standard. If a student receives a C in Year 3 and again in Year 4, it signifies 12 months' growth in that subject area.

In Term 3, parents will have the opportunity to book a Learning Conversation with class teachers to discuss reports, set future goals, and celebrate successes and progress. Booking information will be distributed early in Term 3.

These reports aim to foster effective communication between teachers, parents, and students, promoting collaborative efforts to support your child's education. Through comprehensive assessment and thoughtful feedback, primary school reports contribute to the holistic development of young learners, laying a strong foundation for their future.

Travelling Safely

The bus bay is not a safe pedestrian access point to our campus, nor an area available for drop off or pick up of school children.  The designated pedestrian entry points to our Strathalbyn R-6 Campus remain at the top gate (near the school crossing) or the pedestrian access gate adjacent the bus bay entry, following the path.  We appreciate your understanding of this in keeping everyone safe. 

• Crossing Monitors will hold the “STOP” sign out towards traffic after Head Monitor Whistles and Signals to them with the word “UP”
• Bikes and scooters must be “WALKED” across the crossing
• E-scooters – use of an e-scooter on a road or on road related area’s such as shopping centre carparks, service station carparks, bike tracks where vehicles can be driven and parked is not permitted, only on private property.
• School Crossings are the SAFEST place to cross East Terrace
• Always wait for your Head Monitor to call “WALK” prior to heading across the crossing
• Please wait behind the crossing monitors until they tell you it’s safe to cross with their signage position and verbal instructions

We thank you for your patience, concentration and kindness while using our school crossing as together we ensure our school community stays safe.

Regards,
Jo Garwood, Sophie Frost and Mel Pitt
Heads of Campus

Junior Primary Outdoor Ed Quiz Night

Junior Primary Outdoor Ed Quiz Night

We are thrilled to announce that our recent Junior Primary Outdoor Education Quiz Night was a resounding success, raising an impressive $2,735! These funds will go directly towards enhancing our students’ learning experiences by providing new equipment for our beloved Junior Primary Outdoor Ed and Tungaree.

The evening was filled with laughter, friendly competition and a series of challenging questions that had everyone thinking hard. Teams comprised of parents, teachers and community members were showcasing their trivia prowess across various categories, making it a night to remember.

Beyond the quiz, attendees enjoyed mini-games and activities that added to the fun and helped boost our fundraising efforts. The sense of community spirit was palpable with everyone coming together to support a common goal: enriching our students’ educational journey.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who donated prizes and contributed to making the night a success. Your generosity and enthusiasm are truly appreciated. A massive thankyou to Martin Stokes for being the Quiz Master, Jane Jolly for the games between rounds and to Vikki McInnes and Jan Whittle for keeping score.

A special thanks to the following local businesses and people for donating prizes. You kindness is very much appreciated:

Regards,
Donna Prusa
Junior Primary Outdoor Education

Room 3 Update

We have been incredibly productive this term!

In Room 3, we have had a major focus upon improving our reading fluency and spelling. It has been amazing to see such a growth after our week 6 testing!

We had fun exploring fractions on a number line. As a class, we discussed each other’s number lines, focusing on strengths and areas for improvement, then we created one together as a class using our shared feedback!

Room 3 have also learnt about Aboriginal history and culture as a part of reconciliation week. It was wonderful to see the class’s inclusive attitude, and our year 4/5 class created wonderful pledges of what we could do for ‘bridging now to next’:

Now, I will acknowledge the Torres Strait Islander people. Next, I will share what I have learnt with my family. - Archie

Now, I will try to make a change. Next, I will listen more to the First Nations team to hear what they have going on at our school. - Eloise

Now, I know what happened in the Stolen Generation. Next, I will create a book that will help others learn about Aboriginal history. - Harper

Now, I will learn from my elders. Next, I will continue to respect my elders. - Thomas

Regards,
Monique Hausser and Emily Hopkins

OSHC Holiday Program

Bush School with Room 11

On Tuesday, 3^rd June Room 11 travelled to the Ashbourne Campus to join their Bush School Day. It was a cold and wet day, but all students enjoyed participating in a range of activities. Students kept warm beside the campfire toasting damper and marshmallows. They used clay to create lids for propagating jars as well as make some clay animals. Students used watercolours to paint different animals. They worked in groups to build cubbies and shelters in the scrub. The day ended with a whole school game of Web of Life.

My highlight was the mud play because I got to climb trees and get muddy. – Harley M

I enjoyed making new friends. – Finn H

My highlight was the clay making because I made a lid and a jar for my earrings. – Stella M

My highlight was the damper because it was so good. – Evelyn M

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Regards,
Zoe Harrland and Stephanie Ladas

Room 4 Civics and Citizenship Learning

This term, with the timing of federal elections, we've been learning about voting,  the 3 levels of government and passing laws. 

On Friday, 16^th May we visited the steps of State Parliament House, whilst in Adelaide in excursion. Then Monday Week 5 we had Rebekah Sharkie MP visit our class and explain her role as our Federal Member of Parliament. We had a great discussion, led by fantastic questions by the class. We also found out some interesting information about Parliament House and Canberra, including the mysterious disappearance of the original Mace used in Federal Parliament. 

We've also been developing our Critical Thinking and Creativity creating inquiry questions on the topics taught. Here are some of our questions and answers.  

Alexander

What's the fine for Voter Fraud?

Answer: Up to $6600 or 2 Years imprisonment.

Caleb

Do you vote if you are in jail? 
Answer - If your time in prison is more than three years, no you don't get to vote.

Chase

If you’re in hospital having a baby will you get a fine for not voting?
Answer - Voting should be amended to provide that it is a ‘valid and sufficient reason’ for not voting if a person cannot.

Emily

Why does the House of Representatives have so many more members than the senate?
Answer - The number of members representing the states is twice the number of senators representing the same state.

Genevieve

How can you not be eligible to vote??
Answer - Some examples include: committing fraud and not being pardoned, being physically unable to vote, having a prison sentence of three years or more, etc.

Izabella

Why do we have to vote every three years? Why can't we wait till the Prime Minister dies?
Answer - The Australian Constitution says that each House of Representatives convened after a federal election will continue for 3 years from the date of the first meeting but not any longer.  An election can be earlier than three years if requested by the Prime Minister and approved by the Governor-General.

Kade

How do you know if you are on the electoral roll?
Answer- You can check if you're on the electoral roll on an AEC website.

Spencer

What if you’re out of the country when its voting time?
Answer you would have to do postal voting.

Maddelyn

What happens if you are overseas during an election?
Answer- if you live overseas when an election happens you have to let AEC know if not your name will get taken off the list.

Zahra

What does it mean to be pardoned?
Answer: To be pardoned means to be officially forgiven for a crime or offense, effectively releasing the person from any guilt or penalty associated with it.

Regards,
Kym Diepgrond

PE Update

Eastern Fleurieu School Claim the Double at the Southern Fleurieu District Netball Carnival

On Friday, 30^th May we had 18 girls travel to Victor Harbor to represent EFS in the Division 1 and 2 netball Championships.

Our Division 1 girls started strongly recording a big win over Victor Harbor 15 - 1 before a tighter contest against Mount Compass winning 14 - 7. The girls rounded out their minor rounds with a solid win over Encounter Lutheran to finish top of their pool. In our cross over semi-final we came up against a tall and sleek Port Elliot team that pushed us to the final whistle, the girls took the lead with a few minutes to play and held on to win 8 goals to 7. In the grand final we had a rematch with Mount Compass who has won their cross over final in a thriller against Goolwa, the girls started slowly but fired up in the second half to win the game 9 - 3 and bring the shield home to EFS once again.

The Division 2 side started conservatively, recording a 5 goal to none win over Victor Harbor. We then found our feet with big wins over both Mount Compass and Encounter Lutheran. Defeating Goolwa in the cross over final 7 goals to 1 we had set up a grand final match up with Myponga who had been the team to beat all day. In the grand final we defended really well on some much taller opposition, the girls worked hard as a team to take a small lead into the half time break. Despite a seesawing final half our defenders held firm, our mid court players ran hard and our goalies took their chances to see us run out winners 8 goals to 5!

A tremendous effort by all of our players. Huge shout out to super coach Zara and to our amazing Year 10 fit to lead students who helped coach, score and umpire on the day. We can't forget our amazing parent group who were certainly the biggest and loudest cheer squad for the day!

Knockout Football Success

On Wednesday, 21^st May our Year 5/6 Boys Football team travelled to Tatachilla Lutheran College to compete in the first round of knockout football.

Our first game was against All Saints Catholic College where our boys came out firing in the rain and took a commanding lead into the first break. EFS never gave the Saints a chance dominating the contest to run out winners 16 goals 6 to no score. Best players were Sam, Rocco, Hudson, Miller, Cooper, Dylan and Max.

Our second game was against the hosts Tatachilla. The weather dried up and EFS took a solid 14 point lead into the first break. No side could manage a goal in the second term and the game seesawed with great pressure being applied. Tatachilla kicked two late goals in the final term to gain some respect on the score board but it wasn't enough with the EFS boys winning 5 goals 5 to 2 goals. Best players for game 2 were Rocco, Sam, Archie, Chase, Hudson, Cooper, Miller and Dylan.

The boys now move on to the second round of games later this term.

Many thanks to our amazing team of parents and support staff who attended on the day.

District Success for EFS runners. 

On Thursday, 5^th June we had 8 EFS athletes represent the Southern Fleurieu District at the State Cross Country Championships at Oakbank.

The U/10 girls had 177 competitors and our very own Lacey finished 30^th!

The U/10 boys had a massive 200 competitors. Cody finished in 3^rd place (even with taking a wrong turn) Noah finished 93^rd also in his debut for Southern Fleurieu. 

The U/11 boys had a field of 190 athletes and Rocco managed to defend his win from last year claiming the gold! Jaxon continues to impress with his distance running finishing 29^th and Ryder finished strongly coming in 155^th. 

The U/12 boys had the biggest field of the day with 235 competitors. Sam finished a remarkable 26th, with Dylan finishing middle of the pack in 138^th. 

Rocco and Cody automatically gain selection in the State U/12 Cross Country team that will head to Queensland later in the year.

Regards,
Darcy Springhall

What’s Been Happening in Room 25

This term, Team 25 have been enjoying reading “Fantastic and Fox” during our fruit time. The students have been thrilled by the story and its characters. To enhance their experience, we have recently participated in a fun activity where each student created their own Mr Fox using egg cartons. It was a wonderful opportunity for students to use their newfound comprehension strategy of visualisation and their creativity and imagination to bring Fantastic Mr Fox to life.

The students bring so much joy and laughter to the classroom with their endless jokes and funny stories. To celebrate this wonderful sense of humour, we’ve created a class joke book where students can record all the jokes that are shared among us, highlighting the student’s creativity by also strengthening our sense of community and friendship. The joke book has become a treasured collection, allowing us to revisit and enjoy laughter we’ve shared together, it’s a fantastic way to encourage expression and ensure that the joy of humour remains a vibrant part of our classroom experience.

Outdoor Ed and Math has become a particular favourite among students. This term in math we have been focusing on developing strategies for addition and subtraction, particularly with two and three-digit numbers. To build our fluency, we have been enjoying a variety of games that make learning fun and interactive. These games not only reinforce their skills but also encourage teamwork and strategic thinking. 

We have had a great start to the year and are looking forward to what is next on our learning journey.

Regards,
Jordyn Lee

STRATHALBYN 7-12 CAMPUS

11 Callington Road, Strathalbyn SA 5255    Ph: 8536 2455

Head of Campus Report

I am delighted to share some of the outstanding achievements and events that have taken place over the last few weeks. Our school community has been vibrant with activity, learning, and growth, and I am incredibly proud of the progress we are making together.

Reconciliation Week: Bridging Now to Next

We recently celebrated Reconciliation Week, embracing the powerful theme of "Bridging Now to Next." This theme resonated deeply with us as we reflected on our journey towards reconciliation and truth, and the role our students play in shaping the future. I was fortunate to be part of the judging panel for class artwork displays on doors across all campuses; it was amazing to see the deep learning that resulted from this creative project. 

Staff vs. Students

Staff and students went head-to-head in the recent staff vs. students tag gridiron game. Despite some confusion over the rules among spectators (myself included), the event was a testament to the camaraderie and mutual respect that define our school community. Rumour has it that the staff team won so I imagine that the students will throw another sporting challenge our way in the coming weeks.

Innovative Teaching and Learning

Our classrooms have been buzzing with fantastic teaching and learning opportunities. A particular highlight for me was the Year 10 maths lesson, where students launched trebuchets to explore quadratic equations. The high level of engagement and the spark of curiosity among students were truly inspiring.

We have much to look forward to as we welcome several important visitors to the school in the coming weeks. Authentic learning will be at the forefront, with students catering morning tea with an artisan bakery for a group of local school leaders, and others hosting tours for international visitors. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase their talents and engage in real world learning.

We begin a new semester at the start of Week 9; many students will be receiving a revised timetable and starting new courses.

Student Leadership and Initiatives

Our student leaders have been diligently working on formalising a strategy for launching their learner action cards, aligning them with our school values of Respect, Integrity, Determination, and Teamwork. Their deep understanding of these values and their application in the classroom is impressive. Additionally, they continue to engage with the uniform review, supporting us in improving compliance and strengthening our sense of community and pride.

Focus on Inclusion

Our recent Student Free Day, focussed on inclusion, with a commitment to enhancing our learning environment to be responsive to the needs of all learners. We are passionate about creating a welcoming space where diversity is celebrated, and every student feels empowered and supported. Inclusion is not just a priority; it is a fundamental value that drives our moral purpose to provide an equitable and enriching educational experience for all.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our school community.

Regards,
Vanessa Coker
Director of Secondary Education

Year 10 Food and Hospitality

Healthy High Tea Experience

The two Year 10 Food and Hospitality Classes recently planned and catered a Healthy High Tea Experience for both classes. They worked collaboratively to create a selection of bite-sized sweet and savoury dishes, focusing on flavour, presentation, and nutrition. Students refined recipes to include more nutrient-dense ingredients and explored healthier alternatives to traditional high tea favourites. A fantastic effort by all involved!

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Regards,
Tess Maple and Laura Brooksby
Food and Hospitality Teachers

Year 11 Child Studies

Year 11 Child Studies students were required to plan, prepare and present Healthy Lunchbox items suitable for a 5-6 year old child. They had to consider dietary requirements, food safety and presentation.

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Regards,
Laura Brooksby
Food and Hospitality Teacher

Stage 2 Essential English - Adelaide Central Markets

On Friday, 16^th March the Stage 2 Essential English class travelled to the Adelaide Central Markets to gather information and data to commence their Externally Assessed Language Study. Students participated in a guided tour of the markets as well as immersing themselves in culinary experiences whilst capturing the cultural delights within the markets. Thank you to my students for representing yourselves and the school’s values so proudly throughout this opportunity.

Regards,
Emily Rodgers
Teacher

Stage 1 and Stage 2 Strathalbyn Neighbourhood Centre Excursion

Over the past two weeks our Stage 1 and Stage 2 Integrated Health have participated in two volunteering sessions within our Providing Care unit. During these excursions, students have completed support in food service, food preparation, service, food and beverage table service, effective communication with a diverse range of people and safe hygiene practices. Students also participated in an afternoon of bingo and quiz rounds which enabled an effective sense of connection and belonging for all involved. Thank you to the Neighbourhood Centre for having us and providing us with a wonderful opportunity and experience.

Regards,

Year 10 Physical Education - Healthy Locals Physical Education Learning Expedition Presentation with GymIt

On Monday, 26^th May one of the Year 10 Physical Education classes participated in an interesting, informative and engaging presentation hosted by Jamie, the owner of GymIt and Mitch, a Personal Trainer also from GymIt. Students engaged in rich discussions with our guests to explore the health benefits to people that are within a gym community as a part of their healthy locals’ assessment.

Thank you to all involved in organising this rich learning opportunity for our students.

Regards,

Year 9/10 Knockout Volleyball Competition

Our Year 9/10 volleyball teams competed in the knockout competition on Tuesday 20^th May facing off against schools from across the region.

The girls’ team had a fantastic day, winning their pool matches against Aldinga Payinthi and Cardijn Galilee to secure a spot in the semi-finals. They continued their strong form with a solid win over Victor Harbor High School to reach the grand final. The final against Investigator was an absolute thriller, after splitting the first two sets, it came down to the final set, which went point for point. Despite a narrow loss, the girls showed outstanding teamwork and determination throughout the day. A brilliant effort all round!

The boys’ team also represented the school proudly. They faced tough matches against Investigator and Aldinga Payinthi but bounced back with a great win over Victor Harbor High School. The boys gave every game their best and demonstrated excellent sportsmanship and resilience.

Well done to all players involved, you represented the school with pride and should be commended for your efforts!

Regards,
Kelly Bahr
Teacher

Year 7/8 Knockout Basketball

On Friday, 30^th May our Year 7/8 girls’ and boys’ basketball teams travelled to Victor Harbor High School to compete in the knockout competition. Both teams played against Unity College and Victor Harbor High School.

The boys had a strong start, defeating Unity College in their first game. Their second match against Victor was a hard-fought battle, narrowly missing a spot in the finals with a 4-point loss. The girls had a close game against Unity, going down by 9 points, but bounced back impressively to secure a 20-point win over Victor Harbor.

All players represented the school with great sportsmanship and effort – well done to everyone involved! A big thank you to Issy and Darcie for their excellent coaching, and to Jasper and Boyd for refereeing on the day.

Regards,
Kelly Bahr
Teacher

Year 10, 11 and 12 Architecture

Architecture Students from Years 10, 11 and 12 recently visited three building sites in Hahndorf and Mount Barker to explore architecture in action. The tour included the Heysen Gallery (groundworks), a residential build (first fix carpentry), and the nearly completed Mount Barker Aquatic and Leasure Centre. Students observed construction sequencing and saw firsthand the design, structural, material and service details they have been discussing in class. The excursion aligned with Australian Curriculum Design and Technologies learning intentions, including analysing how design solutions evolve and the evaluation of real-world impacts. Special thanks to the teams at Marshall & Brougham and Kennett for generously welcoming us onto their sites and sharing their expertise.

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Regards,
Michael Jamieson
Teacher

Student Wellbeing Leaders Attend Stronger Connections Conference

Student Wellbeing Leaders Gaby Taylor and Ryan Haylock recently attended the Stronger Connections Conference, which focused on strengthening student engagement and wellbeing across school communities.

Key sessions included:
• Breaking Barriers – Strategies to identify and address student disengagement through early intervention and supportive communication.
• Building Support Plans – Approaches to fostering safety, connection, and belonging within school environments.
• Strengthening Connections – Promoting collaboration between wellbeing and Aboriginal education teams to ensure culturally responsive support.

Conference highlights included opportunities to collaborate with wellbeing leaders from other schools and hear from experts such as;

Dr Natasha Schranz – Director, Engagement and Wellbeing Support and Inclusion Division

Dr Tom Brunzell – Berry Street Education Model (BSEM)

Amber Brock-Fabel – Founder and Director of the SA Youth Forum

Nell Harris – Lived Experience Educator and author of neuro affirming children’s books, including My Brain is a Race Car

Gaby and Ryan’s participation reflects our strong commitment to implementing evidence-based practices that foster safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environments. They have returned with valuable resources and ideas to help us reflect on our current practices and make positive, meaningful changes. 

Regards,
Inclusion and Wellbeing Team

Pride Month

June is Pride Month, and at Eastern Fleurieu R-12 School we’re celebrating the strength, diversity and creativity of our incredible school community! Pride Month is all about affirming that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and proud of who they are – and our students have been embracing the spirit with colour, kindness and connection.

Each Wednesday throughout June, we’re hosting lunchtime activities outside FTX, designed to bring people together and celebrate what makes us all unique. These events have become a hub of joy and inclusion – a space where everyone is welcome to get involved, be creative, and spread positivity.

Last week’s activity was a huge hit: Rock Painting for Pride! Students decorated river stones with bright colours, positive messages, and symbols representing the LGBTQIA+ community. There was laughter, deep conversations, and a lot of glitter! The finished pieces will soon be displayed in our Wellbeing Garden as a beautiful visual reminder that love, acceptance and pride live here at EFS. (Keep an eye out for photos on Facebook and Instagram – coming soon!) 

We’re so proud of the way our students have shown leadership, compassion and courage this month. Pride isn’t just about rainbows – it’s about belonging, bravery, and building a future where everyone can be their true self. 

Come and join us outside FTX every Wednesday – all welcome! 

Regards,
Inclusion and Wellbeing Team

IDAHOBIT Day

On Friday, May 17^th our school proudly celebrated IDAHOBIT Day – the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Inter-phobia and Transphobia. The day is recognised globally as a powerful reminder that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, no matter their identity – and at EFS, we made sure to honour that message with heart and happiness.

The celebrations were bursting with energy and colour! Our courtyard came alive with music, bubbles, outdoor games, chalk art, and vibrant fruit platters for everyone to share. Our wellbeing dog Nala had an especially joyful time chasing bubbles and soaking up the love – proving, once again, that joy is contagious!

Students danced, played, chatted, and made new connections – all while showing support for inclusion and equality. It was a day of celebration, but also of education and action: a time to reflect on how we can all help make our school – and the world – a kinder, safer place for LGBTQIA+ people.

Thank you to our amazing student leaders and staff who made the day so memorable. Whether it was setting up games, handing out rainbow wristbands, or helping others feel welcome, you embodied what it means to stand up for respect and human rights.

At EFS, we stand together – and IDAHOBIT Day was a wonderful reminder that our differences make us stronger.

Regards,
Kate Yabsley
Youth Worker

Fleurieu Academy Shines at SAASTA Power Cup Camp

Lydia and Ivan, proud students of Fleurieu Academy, recently took part in the inspiring SAASTA Power Cup Camp. This unique program, powered by SAASTA Connect, encourages First Nations middle school students to complete their schooling by offering a direct pathway into the Santos Aboriginal Power Cup. 

Using AFL as a motivating force, the program aims to support health, wellbeing, and education goals aligned with National Closing the Gap targets. Throughout the year, students engage in education workshops, culminating in the annual Power Cup event. This vibrant gathering features AFL activities, cultural workshops, and a careers and health expo.

A highlight for Fleurieu Academy was Lydia’s design being chosen to feature on the school’s football Guernseys, a proud moment for the community. Additionally, students performed a spectacular Cultural Dance before the Geelong vs Port AFL game, showcasing their talents and culture on a grand stage. 

The SAASTA Power Cup Camp continues to inspire and empower the next generation through sport, education, and culture.

Regards,
Emma Cooney
R-12 Acting First Nations Leader

Nala’s Wellbeing Work

An Update from Our Four-Legged Friend

Our school wellbeing dog, Nala, is growing up fast – now 7 months old and full of energy, curiosity and affection! Through our partnership with the Dogs Connect program, Nala is settling beautifully into life at Eastern Fleurieu School and is fast becoming a much-loved part of our school community.

Each day, Nala is meeting more students and exploring more parts of the school. One of her favourite things to do is walk through the yard at break times, soaking up the sunshine, enjoying lots of pats, and helping brighten people’s days with her calm presence and wagging tail.

She’s especially enjoyed visiting different classes – and recently took a stroll through Year 11 Photography, where she took a keen interest in the students’ creative work (actually, she was just interested in pats). She’s quietly hoping that one of them might invite her in for a proper photo shoot and capture her best side. (She’s been practising her ‘sit’ just in case!)

Another highlight for Nala was joining the crowd at the staff vs student Touch Football match, where she was a very enthusiastic sideline supporter – paws down, she was the cutest fan on the field.

As part of our wellbeing approach, Nala’s presence at school helps students and staff build calm, connection and emotional regulation. She’s supported by a dedicated team of trained staff, and over time, will work with more and more students, classes and small groups to support social-emotional learning and wellbeing. 

You may occasionally see Nala wearing her red lead – this means she’s on the job or in training, and we ask that students and staff do not approach her at that time so she can stay focused and feel safe in her learning. Thank you for helping her succeed in her important work!

We understand that not everyone is comfortable around dogs, and we are committed to working with families and students who may have allergies, fears or other concerns. Our goal is to ensure that Nala’s presence is safe, supportive, and respectful for all members of our school community.

Thank you to all the students, staff and families who have welcomed Nala so warmly. She’s already made a big impact, and we’re excited to continue this journey as she becomes an even more integral part of the EFS team.

Nala is here to help us feel calm, connected, and cared for – one paw at a time!

Regards
Merryn Gomez
Assistant Principal Inclusion and Wellbeing

Inclusion and Wellbeing Team (7-12 Campus)

EFS are very fortunate to have an extensive team of passionate educators providing Wellbeing supports to the young people in our school community. You or your child can get in contact with the Inclusion and Wellbeing team by contacting Student Services to book an appointment on 8536 2455 or you can send an email to the team at: DL.0796.Wellbeing@schools.sa.edu.au.

We have been introducing different members of our Wellbeing Team in our Newsletters and today we would like to introduce you to Inclusion and Wellbeing Leader, Gaby.

Name: Gaby Rodgers
Role: Student Inclusion and Wellbeing Leader
About the role: Inclusion and Wellbeing Leaders play a crucial role in fostering an inclusive school environment that supports the diverse needs of all students. This involves developing and implementing strategies and initiatives to promote student wellbeing, ensuring equitable access to educational opportunities, and collaborating with staff, families, and the community to create a supportive and inclusive culture.
Interests: Hiking, running, fishing (specifically for whiting!), spending time with family and friends, spending time with her dog, Ottie.
Places you will find Gaby at EFS: Room 1, Room 17, Walking Nala around the campus

Regards,
Inclusion and Wellbeing Team

Year 9/10 Boys Football

At the recent 9/10 boys football matches held at Unity College, Eastern Fleurieu School (EFS) experienced both triumph and challenge under clear weather conditions.

In Game 1 against St Francis, EFS secured a convincing victory with a score of 8.6 (54) to 3.4 (22). Lucas led the goal scoring with 4 goals, followed by Josh C with 2, and Curtis and Sam W each contributing 1 goal. The standout players were Rowan, Hamish, Sam, Lucas, and James, who played pivotal roles in the team's success.

However, in Game 2 against Unity, EFS faced a tough opponent and lost with a score of 1.3 (9) to Unity's 11.9 (75). Nathaniel was the sole goal kicker for EFS. Despite the defeat, Ben G, Rowan, Coyote, Nathaniel, and Tristan were recognised for their exceptional efforts and performance.

Throughout the day, all players worked hard and demonstrated the school values of Respect, Integrity, Teamwork, and Determination, showcasing their commitment and sportsmanship.

Regards,
Mark Nielsen
Health and  Physical Education Teacher 

Eastern Fleurieu School at Cross Country Championships

The Eastern Fleurieu School team participated in the recent Cross Country Championships at Oakbank Racecourse, delivering respectful performances in the cool but clear conditions.

In the 14 Years Girls 3km event, Ella G achieved an impressive 11^th place with a time of 12:25, while Molly W finished 33rd. In the 13 Years Girls event, Jemma and Ainsley ran well, securing 44^th and 46th places respectively in a large field of over 140 competitors.

Carley, Isaac M, Lauren, and Ethan also showed great commitment and effort, contributing positively to the team's overall performance. Well done to all our athletes for their dedication and sportsmanship!

Regards,
Mark Nielsen
Health and Physical Education Teacher 

Library News

Jigsaws

Our donated jigsaws are still popular. Thank you to our latest donations from both Bella’s family and Mr Jamieson’s family.

Premier’s Reading Challenge

Thank you to those students who have already handed in their completed forms.

Regards
Adrienne carter
Teacher