18 February 2022

Newsletter Articles

WHAT: Literacy- Greater than 75% of students will achieve a C standard in English.

HOW: Positive Relationships and High Expectations

WHY: Literacy is the key to a life of choice not chance

Principal’s News

An official welcome back to 2022! It has been an interesting time in Queensland. Let’s work together to stay safe, healthy and happy. We are ready to SOAR to success together.

I start every year in the newsletter sharing my goal-

“My personal goal is to create a school culture where students enjoy coming to school, engage in the learning process and set themselves up as successful young people ready to thrive at High School; developing character through curriculum learning”

To our new families that I haven’t met, please come and introduce yourself when possible. You will love our great school and learning opportunities.

The ELSS way of working is:

Mission – Engage, Inspire and Empower EVERY student to a life of choice not chance
Vision – Positive Relationships and High Expectations for EVERY student succeeding.
Expectations – Safe, Respectful, Learner
Motto – Soar to Success

A warm welcome to new and returning staff-

Deputy Principal- Anthea Grant
Classroom teachers- Jody McCauley, Leo Hopkinson, Nicole Stevenson, Elizabeth Riggs, Mark Donovan, Sally Linaker, Mikaela King, Jaymilee Fahy, Chantal Turner, Vivienne Gittins

I would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank our P&C executive team for 2021, who worked extremely hard to provide support, input and funding for our school. Thank you, Sky, Caitlin and Jodie, for your commitment as the schools first partners in learning. The P&C General meeting is on this Monday night at 6.15pm followed by AGM at 7pm.

Before we jump into the new year, I would like to remind everyone of the 2021 success. When you look at the real reviews of ELSS, it is clear we are a great school-

• 100% delivered on 2021 school wide Annual Implementation Plan including Bump It Up Wall in every classroom.
• 25-year school record of 76% of students achieving an A-C in English.
• 1st ever: colour run raising $21k, swimming carnival, Japanese Cultural day, school bus route established.
• TeachX Qld teacher of the year- Liz Hitchmough
• Finalists Mrs Lisa Hasenkam in Qld Support Staff community award and Breanna Ellis in the Qld Beginning to teach Teachx awards.
• 1.25 million approval for 8 classroom refurbishment and $300K inclusive senior playground delivered.
• Teachers collectively plan for all subjects and cross school moderation.
• 97 year 6 students SOAR to SUCCESS at graduation, all enrolled at a high school, 87% achieving an A-C in English.
• Established a student wellbeing framework including opening the Jarjums Wellbeing Room.
• Students answered 100% that teachers expect me to do my best. Parents answered 96.4% that this school celebrates student achievements. Staff answered 98% that this school looks for ways to improve.
• An increase in student achieving silver and gold for PBL rewards day, each term.
• 94% of all students achieved C or above for effort on their semester 2 report card.

Spread the word- 2022 is the Edens Landing State School Silver Jubilee 25-year celebration. We are calling all former and current staff/students/families to fill out the 25-year survey. We want to collect stories and connections for our celebrations. From 1997 to 2022. 25 years of the Edens Landing State School journey. #25yearsofELSS Clink on the link to fill out-

Our student numbers have grown to 713 students enrolled for 2022, the great news is we get another teacher and class. This means we will be making some changes to Prep, Year 1 and Year 2 classes. Many families will be notified as we make changes across these year levels. Whilst this is a slight disruption, the positive aspect is our class sizes will reduce to allow for more teacher targeted differentiation and support.

I am pleased to share the wonderful start to the year across all classes. The Leadership team completes daily walk throughs and I saw first hand to focus and commitment to learning. It was a highlight to meet our new Prep students with CC (Captain Courageous)

Our three school wide expectations are:

At ELSS I am SAFE, I am RESPECTFUL and I am a LEARNER.

Our school motto and expectations link closely, students can SOAR to success daily-

S- Safe
O- On time and on task
A- Attitude and effort
R- Respect

Families can help this through our STEPS to success at school: Had sleep – Breakfast - Healthy food - On time - In uniform - Ready to learn.

At ELSS we have an attendance and punctuality policy that aligns with Education Queensland’s state-wide initiative ‘Every Day Counts’. We are committed to ensuring a 95% attendance rate for all students. Be reminded learning starts at 8.50am every day. Look out for more 95&0 pizza disco parties!!

School uniform policy- White socks and Black Shoes. I require a few families to support this with your next purchase of socks and shoes to align with the school uniform policy. There are actually no changes from the 2018 policy however, I will be encouraging families/students to meet with guidelines. Part of the reason for high expectation in student uniform is- Safety, cost, confidence, school spirit, saves time, reduce distraction, encourages discipline and high school ready.

This is a great school. It is an exciting time to be partners in learning at ELSS. I value your input so please reach out to the school to share.

Yours in Education

Clint Curran
Principal

Deputy Principal’s News

Welcome to our new families and welcome back to our returning families to another wonderful year at Edens landing State School. I hope you all had a fun filled holiday break. Edens Landing State School focuses on building better learning environments for all students through innovative and exciting curriculum and actively teaching our students appropriate behaviour that allows them to get their needs met in efficient and socially acceptable ways, as well as rewarding students for demonstrating appropriate behaviour. We achieve this through Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) framework.

Kokoda is Back!

First hike of the year for our Kokoda program and I’m looking forward to meeting everyone this Saturday the 19th. Just a reminder to hand in the permission note if you haven’t already done so. Still not too late if your child wishes to participate, notes are in the office. We leave at 6:30am from ELSS carpark, please ensure your child has 2L of water, lunch and snacks for the hike. We’ll still hike if it rains, students can bring a light raincoat if that’s the case.

Student Council Fundraiser

Congratulations to our new studen council representatives who were eleceted this week. Their first term is already shaping up to be a busy one. They will run our annual Easter Raffle and coordinate our “Say No to Bullying Day.” A huge THANK YOU to our staff members who have very generously donated chocolates and Easter Eggs to kick start the prizes for our annual Easter Raffle. We still need lots more to match last year’s tally of over 50 prizes. If you would like to donate Easter items towards this fundraiser, please drop your chocolates and other items at the office.

A note has been sent home outlining when and how to purchase tickets. The raffle will be drawn on the afternoon of Wednesday 30 March. Winners will be notified and prizes will be ready for collection on the last 2 days of term.

Save the date and start looking for your orange shirts - Our annual Say No to Bullying ‘orange’ Day this year is on Friday March 18. Please watch for further information closer to the date

Uniforms

Thank you to our amazing families who have sent their children to school, in full school uniform. It has been pleasing to see our students returning to school wearing their school uniform with pride. For those who are not sure of school expectations it is outlined below.

Girls: Shorts, skirt or skorts in navy blue. School shirt. Black school shoes with short white socks.
Boys: Shorts in navy blue. Black school shoes with short white socks.

All students: If hair touches the collar, students are to tie their hair up. All fringes must be out of eyes (trimmed or pinned). Ribbons, headbands and bows/hair ties are to be school appropriate and in school colours. Jo-Jo bows (or other large items) are not part of our school uniform, even if they are in the school colours.

Watches (phone watches must be handed into the office each day), stud or sleeper earrings and medical alert items are the only permissible jewellery. Culturally significant pieces permitted where appropriate.

Hats must be worn for all outside activities. Our school hat is reversible so can be worn for sports days and competitions. If a school-hat is not purchased from the uniform shop, a navy blue wide brimmed hat is required. Caps are not sun-safe so are not appropriate for school use.

Introducing the Year 3 Team

Mrs Elizabeth Riggs (3R)

I have come in as a transfer to Eden’s Landing . I have taught for over 20 years now and enjoy many different age groups.

I live in Logan with my family of five. My eldest daughter has moved away to be a Speech Pathologist in the Whitsundays! My second daughter is completing her fourth year at University studying Physics and Engineering, and my youngest daughter is an apprentice mechanic. My husband runs a Pest /Building company. My new hobby is Lego and I am currently trying to complete a roller coaster – that I started last year! I love a calm organised classroom to create a great place for all to come to and learn. I have a lifelong attitude to learning- you never stop learning!

Mr Skip Vergers (3V)

I began my teaching career 3 and a half years ago in mid-2018, having graduated from Griffith University. I was extremely lucky in being selected in the Logan City Teachers Education Centre of Excellence which secured me a full-time position within Logan at Edens Landing State School. I am a local to the area living less than 10min drive from the school. This has proven fun in that I’ll regularly meet students and their families at the local Bunnings or the shops!

My teaching philosophy is to build a supportive environment of belonging so that all students can succeed. My favourite subjects are Mathematics and Science. I have three children – Finn, who is a Middle School Captain at Loganlea State High School, Kai, who graduated from ELSS last year, and Aurora who is currently in grade 4 at ELSS. I’m an avid runner with a passion for trail running. My running goal for this year is to complete the Coastal High 50, a 50 km trail run through the Gold Coast Hinterland. I also do karate, which I started when I was only 5 years old! Favourite food is anything Japanese and my ultimate travel destination would be either Japan or the trails of New Zealand. I have one dog Evie, who’s a cross Mini Foxie and Jack Russel Terrier, as well as about 20+ chickens!

Ms Annie Schuler(3S)

I have been teaching at Edens Landing State School for ten years, and for the majority of those years I have been on Year 3. As a teacher, I place importance on creating an engaging classroom environment, in which all students feel cared for and see themselves as learners. It is so rewarding to see the growth in children over the year as learners and as young people. Outside of school, as the proud mother of two adult sons, Nanny to three little people and great-aunt to two, my bucket is kept full enjoying the love and laughter of precious time spent with family. My other great bucket-filler is indulging in my passion (my hubby might say 'addiction') for my house-plants and gardening. Enjoying a quiet cuppa-tea in my patio jungle is my favourite way to start the day!

Mrs Zoe Davis (3D)

I have been teaching for nine years and I am very passionate about creating fun, engaging and age appropriate learning experiences. Despite my lack of talent, I absolutely love to sing and always try to integrate music into the classroom to create and sustain a positive learning environment.

I live with my husband and our many plant babies. My favourite colour is viridian and my favourite food is tacos. I love the outdoors and can often be found chasing waterfalls. I enjoy landscape photography in my spare time and love to travel and go on adventures with my husband. Our goal is to backpack through Norway and Iceland so that we can photograph the Northern lights.

Introducing the Year 4 Team

Miss Ashley Van Dijk (4V)

2022 will be my 4th year of teaching at ELSS. I have loved watching the students and school grow and flourish over the last few years. In the classroom I believe relationships are the key to success. I pride myself in forming connections with each of my students and making sure they know how valued they are. Only then, can quality teaching and learning begin.

Fun facts about me:

• My favourite subjects to teach are English and HASS
• I come from a large family of 5 children, I am the oldest sibling
• Hobbies: reading, cooking / baking new dishes, Netflix, playing board games with family
• Music: Queen, Charlie McFarlane (my fiancé), Taylor Swift, Florence + the Machine
• Favourite travel destinations: Scotland & Amsterdam
• Favourite food: anything sweet and chocolatey!

Mrs Jenny Hoang(4H)

I have been a primary school teacher for 8 years and I am a big believer that it takes a village to raise a child. I believe that working together as a team with parents and other staff members can make an impactful and meaningful education for students. I have an open-door policy (or email nowadays) and I am always happy to answer questions!

Living at home with me is my husband and my house plants! Although I am not a good gardener, I do enjoy tending to my plants and watching them grow. I enjoy binging on Netflix or anything interesting/food-related on YouTube.

Ms Megan McGuicken(4M)

This will be my second-year teaching at ELSS. Before ELSS, I taught in London for two years in Years 5, 4 and 2. I have wanted to be a teacher my entire life, and I am eternally grateful that I am able to build a career doing what makes me happy every day. My love for education and the opportunity to shape young minds is extremely fulfilling. Throughout my teaching practice, I aspire to make a difference by inspiring students, motivating them to reach their full potential and setting high expectations. Moreover, I continuously develop and improve lessons to ensure they are engaging and meaningful. Lastly, I strive to build a safe environment for students to develop a growth mindset and positive attitude towards their learning and ensuring that I make time to listen to my students to ensure they are happy in the classroom and eager to learn.

Fun Facts about me: I was born in South Africa. My favourite hobbies are reading, building Lego, and getting outdoors. My favourite colour is green. Favourite places I have visited: London, Rome, Amsterdam, and Prague. My favourite subjects are Mathematics, HASS and English .

Ms Mikaela King (4K)

I am very excited to be joining the 2022 ELSS teaching team this year. Before teaching at ELSS I have taught at schools on the coast and most recently Yarrabilba. In the classroom, my main goals are to inspire the students in front of me and support them in realising their potential. I find that students who view the classroom as a safe place are more comfortable to immerse themselves in their learning and know that mistakes help us grow as learners.

Fun facts about me: My favourite artists to listen to would be Tom Grennan, Amy Shark, and Taylor Swift. I have been to two Taylor Swift concerts and am impatiently waiting for the next time she is in Australia. I enjoy playing or watching tennis and in the last year have fallen in love with cooking even though it doesn’t always turn out like the recipe images. In the afternoon you will often find me going for a walk to end my day. I was fortunate enough to travel to Japan and Canberra with my primary school which were both unforgettable experiences. Luckily, I can also say I have travelled to Singapore and Fiji while also exploring a lot of our very own backyard heading to Melbourne, Darwin, and the Australian Outback. My favourite food is lamb roast and controversially lollies over chocolate every day of the week.

Introducing the Year 5 Team

Mrs Lizanne Hitchmough (5H):

I have been a primary school teacher for over 30 years and have been a proud part of Edens Landing State School since we opened in 1997. One of my favourite things is when grown men and women approach me at school events and talk to me about their memories of when I taught them 10, 15 or 25 years ago! I have taught all grades but I’m happiest in middle primary.

As a teacher, I believe that developing positive relationships with my students, their parents, and my fellow year 5 teachers is the most important thing. We love to work as a team and all have high and clear expectations. I pride myself on being approachable and look forward to getting to know my new students and families.

Sharing my headspace with my students, is my husband of 30 years and my adult son, who attended ELSS some 17 years ago.

Mrs Kelly Hropic (5K)

I have been a teacher at Edens Landing State School for the past 7 years. I taught year 3 for many years but have been on year 5 since 2020 and I love working with this team. My favourite subjects are Mathematics and Sport. I have an 8-year-old daughter named Isabella. My husband Johnathan is also a teacher at a local school and I have a cat named Jack. My interests and hobbies include: watching AFL, in particular the Brisbane Lions, reading, camping and spending time with my family. I love fish and chips and anything Italian or Mexican.

Mr Mark Donovan (5D)

I have been teaching for seventeen years including primary classroom and specialist teacher Digital Technologies roles. I am new to the Edens Landing State School staff in 2022, having previously taught at Park Lake State School. I am looking forward to getting to know you all as a new member to the Edens Landing State School community and appreciate the warm welcome I have already received.

When students come to school I like for them to feel safe and enjoy their learning. I encourage a supportive classroom with learning that is fun and engaging for all students. I enjoy teaching all subject areas and have a passion for Mathematics and Science, including hands-on learning and experiments.

I have two sons, aged 9 and 14 and have been married for 17 years. Our family also has a dog which we all love; his name is Henry and is a Cavoodle. When not at work, I enjoy all forms of sport. I enjoy watching cricket during the summer and AFL in the winter months. I really enjoy surfing which I have been doing for 26 years and golf which I have enjoyed for around 10 years. I also really enjoy supporting my sons play soccer at club level.

Mrs Janet Ellis-Butler (5E)

I joined the Edens Landing team 6 years ago and prior to that I taught in several other schools within the local region. In all, I have enjoyed my teaching career for more than 30 years and during that time I have taught across most primary school year levels.

In the classroom, my number one goal is to support all students in developing their confidence as learners so they can achieve their full potential. Fostering relationships based on good communication between teachers, students and parents plays a huge role in achieving this goal. In 2022 I look forward to working alongside my exceptional colleagues who, between them, hold a wealth of teaching experience.

Outside of school, I love to spend time in my garden as a way of relaxing. Bushwalking, beach holidays and reading are also favourite past times. In addition, spending time with my husband and two grown up sons brings me lots of happiness.

Introducing the Year 6 Team

Ms Rebecca Mitchell (6M)

I have been working at Edens Landing State School since July 2019. I enjoy working here with a supportive team that I appreciate a lot. I believe in making every student feel included in my classroom on their journey to succeed. I have always known since I was in Primary School that I always wanted to be a teacher, as I have always loved to support and see people succeed. My favourite subject to teach is English, closely followed by Mathematics.

I moved to Australia from England when I was 16 with my Mum, Dad, Grandad and brother, who is also a teacher. It has definitely been the best decision we made as a family to make the incredible move. I went back to England in 2019 for the first time since moving here, but I would love to go back again one day to catch up with family in person, especially my Nan, as well as seeing my best friend who I speak to every day.

My partner and I got engaged last year and will be getting married next year, where we will hopefully be able to have our families travel to Australia. We have a family dog, Elsa who is a Rottweiler, she is turning 6 years old in May.

I enjoy going to the gym to clear my head and reset my mind, I also love to go to the beach and bodyboard. I love all food, but my favourites are pizza and pasta, closely followed by Cadbury’s ‘Fruit and Nut’ chocolate.

Ms Grace Trudinger (6T)

I have been working at Edens Landing State School since 2015. 2022 will be my 6th year working as a Year 6 teacher. I enjoy teaching as I love watching the moment my students realise that they have learnt something new. My favourite subjects to teach are Science and Mathematics.

I was born in England in a town called Basingstoke but moved to Australia in 1995 when I was four years old. I currently live with my fiancé, Ben, my dog, Missy, and two guinea pigs, Herbert and Floyd. My hobbies include gardening and snowboarding, which I love to do when I am travelling. I enjoy travelling and experiencing different cultures and locations. My last overseas trip was the beginning of 2020 but I also love to travel Australia and go camping! My favourite places I have travelled to are Italy, Austria and Japan. Italy would just be the winner though as the food is delizioso! My favourite foods are pasta or curry and I love chocolate, especially if it’s Cadbury’s. One thing I absolutely could not live without is my morning coffee!

Ms Cath Hill (6H)

I have been a teacher for 16 years. The most important thing in my classroom is building and fostering positive and strong relationships with my students. I have found that all students can succeed when they know that I believe in them and that I am there for them through the good days and the bad. I do my best to encourage my students to bring an open mind and a positive attitude into the classroom every day. While I enjoy teaching all subjects, my favourite subjects are English and Mathematics. I love hands on learning and I really enjoy those moments when you see a child’s face light up because they finally ‘get it’.

I am a single mum with two children, my daughter Cian and my son Michael, who are both in their 20’s. My partner, lives in Italy and Scotland and we have been separated since the borders closed due to CoVid. Thank goodness for video messaging! I love to cook (especially Italian food), read, swim and deep water run, play RuneScape and paint. I adore travelling and my favourite destination is anywhere in Italy. It is an amazing country and I love to explore the ancient ruins, art galleries and wander around beautiful villages.

Ms Stefani Marley (6S)

I have been teaching for over ten years. I began my career on the Gold Coast and enjoyed 3 years in Yeppoon, Central Queensland for my country service experience before returning and joining the Edens Landing family. I have spent the majority of my career in the upper school and really enjoy supporting students to be ready for high school and the big wide world. I believe it’s important for students to feel supported and know that it is ok to make mistakes as this is what we all must do to grow. I believe in real world learning, developing a growth mindset and supporting their emotional and social needs, as well as educational needs, to help develop well-rounded personal skills that children will require throughout their lifetime. My favourite subjects are Mathematics and Music. I have 2 children who are 5 and 7 years old and am carer to a 15yr old also. My interests include exercise (mainly gym and running) and photography, watching my children’s sports and, more recently, scuba diving in which I’ve just gained my open water scuba licence. My favourite food is Mexican and I love travelling to the Whitsunday’s, particularly to visit the reef.

Introducing the Specialist Team

Mr Wayne Tuckett.(Technology)

I have worked at Edens Landing State School for 25 years (it certainly doesn’t feel like that many). I am married with three children and 4 grandchildren. I like fishing, boating and gardening. Chocolate and cakes (especially together) are my favourite foods. I also like dogs and have two of my own. A miniature poodle and a miniature fox terrier.

My favourite subject is Technology and, as luck would have it, I also teach Technology.

I would love to do more travel in Australia and overseas once the pandemic is under control.

Ms Amanda Brookes (Technology)

I have been teaching for 14 years and have been at Edens Landing for 12 years. I have three amazing adult sons and a gorgeous grandson. I love V8 supercars, AFL and being by the water (it is my calm place). My favourite subjects are Mathematics, Technology and HASS. I have a cat named Zeus and he rules my house. I love to travel overseas to see family and explore their countries.

Ms Gebauers (Ms G) (Arts)

Over the years I have taught every year level from Prep to Year 6. 2022 will be my third year teaching The Arts. The Arts include Dance, Drama, Visual Art and Media. My favourite subjects are Mathematics, Science and of course The Arts. During the summer I love to go to the lake with my children who water ski. We go camping and dirt bike riding during the winter. I also love to travel and have been lucky enough to visit some amazing places like Africa and The Galapagos Islands, seen some famous places like Machu Pichu and visited natural wonders like Iguazu Falls and the Northern Lights. At home I share my property with 8 chooks, 2 calves, a pig, 3 dogs and a cat. I believe in providing engaging learning activities that inspire children to want to have a go and therefore succeed.

Mr Leo Hopkinson (HPE)

I’m excited to be back at ELSS after two years teaching at another school. I am also very much looking forward to taking on my new role as HPE teacher. I am an avid sports supporter and, more importantly, the Sydney City Rooster’s number one fan. I have run a Kokoda program in schools for the last ten years and I have seen the positive influence that physical activities can have on students’ confidence and I’m looking forward to extending this in the school environment.

Outside of school hours I enjoy spending time with my wife and two adult kids. Usually chilling out watching Netflix, using my VR headset or taking my Staffy ‘Max’ for his daily walk. My pet python of over twenty years ‘Nessy’ doesn’t get nearly as much attention, but she is just as much part of our family. While out walking or at the gym I listen to a range of musicians such as Jimmy Barnes, Cold Chisel, Creedence and Guns N’ Roses. I’m looking forward to meeting many of you and hope to see a strong participation in our 2022 Kokoda program.

Mr Ken O'Donnell (HPE)

I am one of the HPE teachers at Edens Landing State School. I have been in this role for 13 years. I am passionate about sport and the opportunity it provides to develop and strengthen physical, social and mental health I believe that effort leads to success. My family consists of my wife-Zoe, my son-Cooper, daughter-Sidney and my dog-Dotti. I love playing golf, going on beach holidays, watching sport, cooking and listening to music.

Mrs Kristen Sanderson (Japanese & Music)

This year will be my 24th as a primary school teacher. I have occupied many roles during this time, including classroom teacher, specialist teacher and special needs education. I have been part of the Edens Landing school community since 2008. A highlight of my time here has been the development of the Japanese curriculum and particularly the study tour program. This year I will be teacher Japanese to Years 5 and 6 and Music to our lovely Preps.

I believe that when students are engaged and supported they can achieve whatever goals future they can imagine for themselves. I feel passionate about inspiring children to be curious and to love learning so they will want to be life-long learners as well as informed and interested global citizens

My favourite subjects are English, Languages and the Arts. I enjoy reading, gardening, going to the theatre, concerts and galleries, crosswords puzzles, photography and dining out. As I have a passion for Japanese culture and language, it is not surprising that I have travelled to Japan many times, including the 12-month student exchange that I undertook during high school. My favourite place in Japan is the city of Kyoto. I have also been to Singapore and Hawaii. Of my travels throughout Australia, Tasmania has been my favourite destination so far.

Introducing the ELSS Support Team

Miss Angela Kasper (SWD)

I’ve been teaching for 20 years because I love working with children, and am currently enjoying my role supporting students with disabilities. My other passion is animals and often think how amazing it would be to combine both. My favourite subject when I was at school as a student was Ancient History, Drama and Biology. As a teacher, my favourite subjects to teacher are English, Drama and the Biology strand in Science.

I have two fur children named Snoopy and Chico and they are both miniature dachshunds.

When I’m not teaching I’m spending time with my family and friends, bush walking, bike riding, rescuing animals or relaxing watching Netflix. I enjoy travelling and like to go to Hawaii every two years. My dream is to visit Norway and free dive with orcas.

Mrs Amanda Bright (SWD)

I am an Inclusion Support Teacher. I have been teaching for 19 years. For the last 10 years, I have been teaching years 4 and 5 at our wonderful school. I strongly believe that all students need to feel valued and safe in order to learn. I enjoy teaching Mathematics and Geography.

I am a mother of 3 (2 sons and 1 daughter) and love our little dog. I enjoy playing boardgames, watching movies and shopping.

I look forward to getting to know your child/ren

Ms Sally Linaker (SWD)

I am a new Inclusion Support Teacher at ELSS. I've been a teacher for about 14 years and I'm excited to start a new chapter of my career here. I feel super privileged to be able to help young people achieve their goals.

At home I have two teenagers, two rescue cats and little dog. We have a small garden which I love pottering about in and watching the magpies.

I'm looking forward to 2022 being a year of growth and learning.

Mrs Tracey Pahor (Learning Support)

I have been at Edens Landing State School since 2015 as a Year 3 and Year 4 teacher. Prior to this, I have worked as a Special Education teacher and as a Prep to Year 2 teacher at several Logan schools. I am currently doing a Masters in Education (Guidance Counselling) and looking to graduate in 2023!

My philosophy for teaching is based on a child’s ability to develop self-actualisation of their ability to achieve personal success. Based on Maslow Roger’s, this is the foundation of my teaching practice. Children need a sense of belonging before they can develop self-actualisation.

This year I am joining the Learning Support team. I am looking forward to working with students, catering for their individual needs and encourage them to reach their full potential.

Mrs Megan Jeffrey (Learning Support)

I started teaching at Edens Landing State School in 2000. I am a Learning Support teacher and I absolutely love supporting students to achieve their best in English.

My husband is also a teacher and we have two sons. I love listening to music and reading. I have travelled overseas several times, but I would like to explore more of our wonderful country in the future.

Mrs Gabriel Blair (Learning Support)

I'm Mrs Blair and I am one of the Learning Support teachers at Edens Landing State School. I have been teaching for 35 years and my favourite subject is Mathematics. My husband and I have 3 remarkable boys/men and now we also have four wonderful grandchildren. When I'm not doing Sudoku, you might find me on the tennis court.

Yours in education
Cheryl Gibson
Deputy Principal
cgibs2@eq.edu.au

Deputy Principal’s News

Welcome to 2022

It’s great to be back! I hope everyone is feeling rested and ready to start a new year of learning! It has been a wonderful start to the year – especially the new prep children – parents should be proud of how well the little ones have settled into school life.

For those who may not know me, I have been a Deputy Principal at Edens Landing since July 2009. I have been teaching for over 35 years, including a few years in the UK. I have 2 grown children and 2 granddaughters, and am extremely close to my niece and her family of 3 boys!

I love to travel and have spent quite a lot of time road tripping across Europe.

I am passionate about how children learn and develop not only in traditional academic subjects like reading and writing and math, but physically, socially and creatively.

I am looking forward to working with children, parents and teachers towards helping our children and future leaders become confident problem solvers and generally amazing people!

Each newsletter I will share some article that centres on how parents can help their child at home to improve their learning.

This week I would like to share a great website full of parenting ideas – “Raising Children”. There are tips about a range of topics – written by experts and parents.

The School and Learning tab has an abundance of ideas and tips that directly relate to school

I particularly like the ideas in Literacy, Reading and Stories – you may wish to try simple activities like looking for letters and sounds in our environment.

Introducing the teaching teams-

Prep

Miss Jaymilee Fahy

My name is Jaymilee Fahy, I have been teaching for 3 years and am excited to Join Edens Landing State School in 2022. I have taught year 6, year 1 and in 2022 I will be a prep teacher. I love teaching Maths and using hands on materials. In my own time I love doing craft and gaming. Yes I do love Minecraft! If you ask any of my students my favourite food is toast, and my favourite drinks are cold water and tea. I have one dog called Leo, he is 5 years old and loves to play fetch and carry his bed around the house.

Ms Sarah Jane Stevenson

Teaching experience. I started teaching in Westall Melbourne in 1998, then to Katherine in the Northern Territory and on to Beenleigh. I have taught in this area since 2007. Over my time teaching I have done early childhood right up to year 12 as a classroom teacher, Indonesian teacher, P.E and swimming teacher. I currently teach prep which I love; being with young learners in their first year at school is always exciting. I believe in making an environment where everyone can feel happy, safe and excited to learn. I am one of our schools Indigenous Champions. I look forward to the fun and connection of our afterschool club as well as our whole school celebrations and commemorations for Reconciliation and NAIDOC. When I am not teaching I spend time with my family we have 4 kids from 23 to 13. All of us love road trips, camping, being out in nature and just spending time together.

Miss Breanna Ellis

My name is Breanna Ellis and I am a Prep teacher here at Eden’s Landing State School.

I grew up in a small country town here in Queensland but spent most of my adult life in Sydney. I am glad to say, that I am now here to stay!

Teaching the Early Years is my passion which has grow out of my 10 years experience in childcare and now is fulfilled by teaching Prep. I wholeheartedly believe that parents and caregivers are a child’s first teacher, with that belief I like to keep you up to date with the going on’s at school and maintain a positive relationship with families.

At home, I have my gorgeous cat Charlie which I am sure you will hear many stories about throughout the year.

When the world opens back up, I would love to travel through Scandinavia and Iceland to see the picturesque scenery and learn all I can about their histories.

Mrs Vivienne Gittins

My name is Vivienne Gittins, I have been teaching since 2001 and have taught all year levels from prep to grade seven and in my own time tutored students in Mathematics all the way to year 11. Mathematics is definitely my favourite subject and I love to build a love of mathematics in my students. I also enjoy teaching the fundamentals of reading and writing which is why I choose to work in the early years of school.

I believe that children are naturally curious learners and that they thrive when they feel successful. This means that I work hard to make sure all my students get to feel they are succeeding every day.

In my spare time I go camping with my family (husband and three children), plan a mid-year trip to Uluru and renovate my house.

Thank you for welcoming me at Edens Landing State School.

Year 1

Mrs Webster

Hi there! My name is Vanessa Webster and I have been teaching since 1993. (All the mathematicians out there can work out just how long I have been teaching!)

I have taught every year level. I am passionate about developing young minds into tomorrow’s thinkers and problem solvers.

My philosophy of education is that all children are unique and every child can learn given the right amount of time and support. I believe it is essentials to create a safe environment where students are invited to share their ideas and take risks. I also believe that education is a team sport. Parent, teacher and child must all work together and communicate to reach the common goal of education.

My Favourites:

Food: Chips and chocolate
Colour: Red and blue
Animal: Dogs (Is there any other?)
Hobby: Walking and travelling

Mrs Caroline Binnie

My name is Caroline Binnie and I am so excited to be a Year 1 Teacher this year. I have been teaching for over 10 years and this will be my 10th year at Edens Landing. I have two crazy, energetic boys of my own, three if you count their father! Noah who is in Year 3 and Asher who is only starting his school journey in Prep.

We have 2 cats, Jasper our grumpy old man (11 years old) and Shadow our one year old social distancer. I love my job and enjoy working in the early years and find it extremely rewarding seeing how the children grow throughout the year. I enjoy my daily coffee, occasional chocolate and savoury treats. When I get some spare time from wrangling my two boys I love reading, going for walks and having some me time with peace and quiet and no talking (rare treat with my chatty boys). Spending time with my family is always lots of fun, either relaxing/splashing by the pool or beach, going on holidays, bike rides, park hopping, movies or drive ins.

Miss Stevenson

I am an experienced senior teacher joining the Edens Landing family this year. I am so excited for this new journey and adventure!

I am so happy to be your 2022 teacher! This year is going to be full of fun, learning, and growing. You’ll meet new friends, learn lots of new skills, and make wonderful new memories. I can’t wait!

I absolutely love teaching! This year will be my eleventh-year teaching and I feel fortunate to do what I love each day. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Primary Education majoring in Early Childhood. I’ve always had a love for learning and knew I wanted to pursue my dream of teaching since I was 9 years old.

When I’m not teaching, I love to spend time with my family, friends, and my two Maltese pups! You’ll be seeing lots of photos of them this year. I like Zarrafas, going shopping, enjoy swimming, trying new restaurants, and being outside. Colourful pens and markers make me happy. You can always catch me snacking on something (usually chocolate!).

Year 2

Miss Ambrose

Hi, I am Miss Ambrose. I have been working at ELSS for the last 4 and a half years. I think my favourite thing about being apart of ELSS is empowering our students to live a life of choice not chance and providing them so many avenues to achieve success. For half of the year, I am not just a teacher but am also an athlete, specifically a basketballer. I play for the Gold Coast Rollers in the NBL1 North competition. If my life between sport, work and a social life wasn't busy enough, I have also added a new addition to my little family with an 8 week old puppy named Winter. I love to travel, be outdoors, and to be around my family as they are what is most important to me.

Miss Natalie Smith

Hi! My name is Natalie Smith and I am teaching Year 2 (2MS) on Friday’s this year. I taught Year 2 (2P) during Semester 2 last year at Eden’s Landing State School. I also have experience teaching Prep and Year 1 full-time at a different school. I am all about positive relationships, engaging learning experiences and fun! My favourite subjects to teach are Science and Design Technology. I am super passionate about wellbeing and mental health – from this year onwards I will be studying a Bachelor of Behavioural Science alongside teaching. My favourite hobbies at the moment are Touch Football and reading! I play Touch socially once a week and enjoy reading a book or two in my free time.

Mrs Angela Massingham

I started teaching the same year the movie ‘Lethal Weapon’ and the song ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’ by Whitney Houston was released.

I believe every child has a talent in some specific area. I hope to nurture or even help each child discover their talent. Equally I also know that each child has an area that they are not talented in. I hope each child learns to work hard at developing the skills they are given to live the happiest life possible.

My favourite subjects to teach are reading and art. Reading because it opens up a world of possibilities and art because it is wonderful for the soul.

I have two boys – 28 and 25. They are both electricians. One is very talented at making things like conversions to his 4xwheel drive and wood smoker. The other son is very talented at cooking.

My interests include gardening, sewing, travelling to explore new destinations and watching history documentaries.

My pet Kruz (pictured) is one year old now. He has learnt to sit, lay, shake hands and nearly roll. He loves his food and chewing anything in sight.

Ms Diana Gollan

I am Ms Gollan and I have been working at ELSS for the last 10 years. I enjoy teaching in the early years, finding that the most rewarding part of being at ELSS is inspiring every student to a life of choice not chance and seeing the growth that children make throughout the year. I have four children 17, 15 and twins aged 5 who all keep me on my toes! Travis who works full time, Michael who is in Year 10 and Charlotte and Bradley who are beginning their learning journey right here at ELSS in Prep! We have one pet, named Chopper, who is a French Bulldog and comes everywhere with us, where dogs are allowed. Every day I try for some ‘me time’ by going to the gym to participate in a group fitness class or on work days I train at home before starting my day to be energised and ready to take on the world! Spending time with my family is always memorable and fun, either going to the skate park or bike track, park hopping, movies and now being able to see our closest family members and cousins makes that even more special.

Inclusive support Teachers

Miss Hubner

Hello there! I am Hannah Hubner and I have enjoyed teaching for many years. I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of schools and work as a classroom teacher, relief staff and also in special needs. A philosophy that underpins my teaching experiences is that all children have a right to learn and to thrive, and none are excluded from this.

Subjects I particularly enjoy are Art, Music and Literacy, which also relate to hobbies I enjoy in my free time. I have an elder brother and elder sister, and frequently enjoy the company of my beautiful nieces!

Name: Sarah Hibberd

Teaching experience: Thirteen years

Teaching Philosophy: I consider it an incredible privilege to be able to teach and guide students on their learning journeys each year, sharing in successes and helping them overcome hurdles or obstacles along the way. In the classroom I adopt the ‘Gradual release method’ whereby the students are guided through the steps of ‘I do, we do and you do’ to ‘gradually release the responsibility’ and enable students to undertake tasks with confidence on their own. I enjoy seeing the delight on a student’s face when they strive for improvement and achieve success!

Favourite subjects: English, Science and Art.

Family structure: Our family consists of my husband Jarrod and two sons. Mattias is eight years old and Sebastian is six. This family photo was taken on our recent holiday on the Sunshine Coast at Sea Life.

Interests and Hobbies: Having time with my family- playing cards or board games, going to parks, to the beach or camping. I also enjoy singing at Church, card making and doing Pilates.

Favourite Food: Grilled salmon with steamed vegetables.

Favourite Music: Hillsong, Bethel, Housefires and King and Country

Travel destination: In 2009, my husband and I travelled to the U.K and visited England, Ireland and Scotland. My favourite destination was Carrick-a-rede. The most enchanting green hills and gorgeous blue water still fill my mind as I remember our rope bridge climb there.

Pets: Our family have a pet goldfish called ‘Finny’ who is two years old.

Arts Curriculum overview T1 2022

Year 1 are doing Visual Art using paint this term. They are learning to use colour to create, share and respond to an artwork. They are learning about primary and secondary colours and warm and cool colours. Students use them and identify them in their art.

Year 2 are learning to make, perform and respond to drama using a picture book as a stimulus. They create characters and develop a complication and resolution in groups. We then learn how to develop and write a script. Then we rehearse, rehearse, rehearse.

Year 3 are doing Visual Art using clay this term.

We are learning to use different clay techniques to make and share an artwork of a fictional creature. Students will explore different ways they can present clay artworks. They will then use the language of visual art to compare their own and others artworks.

Year 4 are learning to make a television commercial advertising a school event in Media. We are learning to create a media artwork (television commercial) using text, drama, sound and music. The media artwork is to persuade an audience to attend a school event. Students then reflect on their own and others media artwork.

Anthea Grant
Deputy Principal

PBL News

POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR FOR LEARNING AT ELSS

What is Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL)?

Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) is a whole-school framework that promotes positive behaviour across a school and helps schools develop safe and supportive learning environments.

Schools which implement the PBL framework make sure all students are explicitly taught the expected behaviours and establish clear and consistent boundaries. Staff take a proactive, preventative approach to ensure all students receive the appropriate level of support to help them to be successful at school. Student outcomes are monitored so identified students can receive additional support when needed, and a minority of students can access intensive support to enable them to engage successfully at school.

PBL and Bullying Prevention

PBL is based on the belief that all students should have access to the supports needed to prevent the development and continued use of problem behaviours, including bullying. PBL places emphasis on the behaviour rather than the student, therefore, labels such as “bully” or “victim” are considered unhelpful, with the focus instead directed towards describing behaviour specifically and in relation to the setting in which it occurs (for example, “name calling in the playground before school”).

PBL takes a school-wide approach to bully prevention by teaching:

• what bullying looks like
• what to do before and when bullying behaviour is seen
• how to teach others what to do
• how to reduce the effectiveness of bullying through establishment of a positive school environment.

Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) brings together the whole-school community to contribute to developing a positive, safe and supportive learning culture. The framework assists schools to improve social, emotional, behavioural and academic outcomes for all students.

Edens Landing State School has CC (Captain Courageous) as our mascot. He helps to remind students of our expectations.

Weeks 3 to 6 Term 1:

Edens Landing is a PBL School. This means that we explicitly teach students about the behaviour we want to see repeated. The rules are explained on assembly each Friday and teachers follow up with lessons and activities in class. To start the year all teachers will be revisiting our school expectations – I am Safe, I am Respectful, I am a Learner.

Weeks 6 Term 1:

Week 6 will feature being a Learner.

Office News

Payment Window open Eftpos only 8.30am-10.30am Wednesdays and Fridays

Report Student Absences

Text message your childs absence to 0429 904 926

Text first and last name of your child, date, duration and reason of absence.

to leave a message. Alternatively you may also use the absence email - absences@edenslandingss.eq.edu.au. Please record your child's name, class, date of absence/s and reason for absence.

Late Arrivals

Students who arrive to school after 8.50am must report to the office windows for a late slip prior to going to class.

Change of Details

Please email the school on office@edenslandingss.eq.edu.au stating your child’s name and class to confirm your email address and if applicable advise of any contact details that may have changed, to ensure we are able to contact you in an emergency.

Thank you for your continued support

Chappy News

Hi everyone,

Welcome back everyone and a special welcome to our new families. I am the chaplain here at Edens Landing State School. My name is Tricia Quattromani and the students call me Chappy Tricia or Chappy. I am at the school on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Within my role, I run some programs as well as provide social, emotional and spiritual support for students and their families.

Some of the programs I run are, Breakfast Club, SUPA Club, Chic Chat and Parents afternoon tea.

The YMCA Breakfast Club is on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, from 8.30 to 8.45am and is open to all students, at no cost. ( The first Monday of every term there is no breakfast club and usually the last week of school we run until all our supplies are used up). This is a YMCA run breakfast club, where all the food is supplied by YMCA Kingston, and support by school and community volunteers. Breakfast usually consists of toast and cereal, sometimes we are also able to order fruit. If anyone is interested in volunteering to assist with breakfast club please contact me, via the email below.

SUPA Club is our spiritual support program, the program is for students in years 4 – 6, and is run on Thursdays at second break. During this program we read and learn about the bible, play games, learn and sing songs and pray. This program requires parent consent and a permission form is sent home if a student asks if they can attend.

During term 2 and 3 and program called Chic Chat is offered to the girls in year 6. This program is design to support students in developing self-esteem and value and building resilience. The work towards receiving a certificate and special gift at the end of the program and a Mother/Daughter celebration night. This program also requires parent consent and permission forms are sent home.

Parents afternoon teas are run on the second Thursday of every month in the resource building (library) from 2.15pm to 2.55pm. These afternoon teas are very relaxed and informal and are open to carers and parents. Keep an eye out on our Facebook page for reminders and to RSVP so that I cater for all that attend. If all goes well our first one should be March the 10th.

If you would like to find our more information about what I do here at the school, or about the programs I run, please feel to contact me via email pquat0@eq.edu.au.

Cheers Tricia.

P&C News

First meeting for the year will be held 21 February in the Administration Building staff room at 6.15pm.

Uniform News

Uniform Shop is open Tuesday and Thursday 8:30 am - 9:30 am.Efpos only.

Delivery of orders to classrooms has ceased, orders must be collected from the uniform shop or parents can arrange to have the order collected from the office.

When coming into the Uniform Shop please follow all the schools Covid Safe plan as stated in the newsletter also on their official Facebook page.

Make sure you like our P&C Association Facebook Page for any updates as we post on there a lot about what is going on and it is also a platform for communication with the P&C.

Any questions please message our Facebook Page or Email the Uniform Shop, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Email: uniform_shop@edenslandingss.eq.edu.au

Flexischools:

Getting online is easy and only takes a few minutes to register. Simply go to the link below click “Register”. You will be sent an email with further instructions on how to complete the registration. Once registered, you can start placing orders immediately. If you have any questions, Flexischools provide a great help desk on 1300 361 769 (unavailable at the moment so please email them), or you can contact them via their website. There is a variety of payment options supported, including Visa, MasterCard (credit and debit) and Bank Transfer. The system operates via a pre-paid account.

Flexischools has a cut off time of:

Monday 4:00 pm for Tuesday orders each week,
and
Wednesday 4:00 pm for Thursday orders each week.

Any other questions can be emailed to the Uniform Shop and will be answered as soon as possible. uniform_shop@edenslandingss.eq.edu.au

*If you have any uniforms your children have outgrown but that are still in good condition.

You can donate them to the Uniform Shop, we need items so families can still feel like they are purchasing a uniform and not missing out.

Outside School HOURS CARE- OSHC

If your child is attending an extra curricular activity you will need to sign a YMCA permission form.

Absences

Please ensure you email, text or call the service if your child will be absent for after school care.

My Family Lounge app

NEW ENROLMENTS

To enrol your child please email the service ael@ymcabrisbane.org
Or follow the OSHC links to register on the YMCA Website

Information for Families

Family and Child Connect – 13 32 64 or visit the link below

If you feel that you’ve lost your way or been side-tracked, Family and Child Connect can give you a hand to get back on track.

Important Messages

Reminder to parents and families regarding parking.
Parking is not permitted in the top administration staff car park or in the School Staff car park at any time.

Outside School HOURS CARE- OSHC

Opening times:
Monday to Friday
Before school: 6am – 9am
After school: 2.30pm -6pm

Pay as little as $3.50 per session after ccs

YMCA Edens Landing OSHC

P: 07 3805 1233
M: 0459 899 887
ael@ymcabrisbane.org

Important Dates to Remember

Contact Details

• Have your contact details changed?
• Have you moved address?
• Do we have your current phone number in case of an emergency?
• Are your emergency contacts still current?
• Are you receiving our newsletters by email?
• Do we have your current email address?

PLEASE CONTACT THE OFFICE TO UPDATE YOUR DETAILS

Phone 3826 0333 or Email office@edenslandingss.eq.edu.au