Week 6, Term 1 2025
- Principal Pen
- Updates from the Admin Office
- Celebrating our Year 6 Leaders
- Deadly Choices Program: Building Health Knowledge
- Wheat Wonders: Crafting and Tasting in Prep Class
- Celebrate International Women's Day with Us!
- Book Fair
- Join Us for the P&C Meeting – March 18th at 3 PM
- Year 5 and 6 Camp EOI
- Camp Australia Newsletter
- Naplan
- New School Uniform Policy is in Effect
- QParents
- Student of the Week - Week 5
- Student of the Week - Week 6
- Do You Qualify for Free Internet?
- School Absences
- Medication Reminder
- Important: Updating Student Details
- School Watch
- Like us on Facebook
Principal Pen
2025 Annual Implementation Plan Focus
School Priority 1
Maximise engagement and wellbeing through a clear vision that increases student engagement, staff morale and community connection.
School Priority 2
Improve LOA in English for all students (P-6) through a focus on lesson planning and delivery
Dear Parents and Carers,
Karibu wiki ya 6;
Bienvenue à la semaine 6;
Wadda Mooli, Welcome to Week 6, Term 1 2025.
I'm excited to share that I have been permanently appointed as Principal of Aitkenvale State School. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to lead such a wonderful team of educators, supportive community and and enthusiastic students. I look forward to building on the strong work we've established and continuing to foster a positive, inclusive learning environment. Together, we will achieve great things in the years ahead. Thank you for your continued support—I’m excited for the journey ahead!
SCHOOL LEADERS’ INDUCTION
Congratulations to our student leaders on receiving their badges. Your dedication and commitment to upholding our school values are truly inspiring. As leaders, you play a vital role in shaping our school community, and we are confident that you will continue to lead by example, fostering a welcoming, inclusive and connected community. A special thank you to all the parents for attending and supporting our students in this important moment. We are proud of each of you and excited to see the positive impact you will make!
Aitkenvale State School sets high standards for behaviour from all in our school and community, so teaching and learning can be prioritised, and staff and students can experience success in a safe and enjoyable environment. Aitkenvale has 3 school rules, which include but aren’t limited to the following examples:
ATTENDANCE – Every Day Counts & School Starts at 8.30am
We have set a whole-school goal of achieving 88% attendance this year, and we believe that every day in school matters. Regular attendance is crucial to student success, as it ensures consistent learning, maintains good relationships with peers and teachers, and helps build important skills that extend beyond the classroom. Parents play a vital role in supporting good attendance by encouraging routines and being proactive when issues arise. Teachers help by providing engaging lessons and creating a welcoming environment that makes students excited to come to school. Ultimately, students are key to this goal, as their commitment to attending school and engaging in their learning will ensure we achieve success together.
Our current whole school attendance for the first 5 weeks is at 86.4%. Now the bad weather is behind us I am sure the attendance rate will continue to increase.
NAPLAN
The National Assessment Program – Literacy and numeracy, is a national test conducted online in March each year. Students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 complete individual tests in four areas. Writing (Year 3 students sit the writing test on paper), Reading, Conventions of language (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and Numeracy.
NAPLAN is used by governments, education authorities and schools to determine whether young Australians are meeting important goals in literacy and numeracy.
NAPLAN gives a snapshot of how children are performing in reading, writing, spelling, punctuation, grammar and numeracy. It complements other effective classroom assessment and reporting practices.
NAPLAN familiarisation will occur next Wednesday 26 & Thursday 27 February. For more information for parents and caregivers, visit https://www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/p-10/naplan/information-for-parents-and-carers
Aitkenvale State School sets high standards for behaviour from all in our school and community, so teaching and learning can be prioritised, and staff and students can experience success in a safe and enjoyable environment. Aitkenvale has 3 school rules, which include but aren’t limited to the following examples:
Be Safe
- Keep hand, feet and objects to yourself
- Use equipment appropriately
- Move around the school sensibly
- Line up and be in the correct areas
Be Responsible
- Ask permission to leave supervised areas
- Be in the right place at the right time
- Ask for help when required
- Be responsible for your own behaviour
Be Respectful
- Use school appropriate language
- Use your manners
- Listen to and follow all staff instructions
- Respect property and personal space
Please ensure you speak with your child/ren in regard to what you expect from them, what the school expects from them and what it looks like to be SAFE, RESPONSIBLE and RESPECTFUL.
ASSEMBLY
Just a reminder that our assemblies are held each Friday morning from 8:45am in the Hall. Parents and caregivers are always welcome. During assembly we share whole of school messages, present student of the week awards, and have special draws for attendance and PBL. We look forward to seeing you on Friday mornings.
Lee Braney
Principal
Updates from the Admin Office
Office Hours 8:00AM - 3:30PM
Supervision on gates begins at 8:00am
Gates Close at 2:50pm - all remaining students will then be escorted to the office to await collection.
Important Dates
- Term 1 Years 3-6 Swimming lessons have commenced - Payments Due NOW
- Year 5 and 6 Camp Expression of Interest Form - Due Now
- Musical Instrument Payments - Due Now
- International Women's Day - 7th March 10:30am - 1:00pm
- Paluma visit - Prep - 7th March
- Life Education Visit - 10th - 14th March
- Naplan Commences 12th March.
- P&C Meeting - 18th March 3pm
- Multicultural Harmony Day Activities 21st March 2:45pm - 5:00pm
All late slips and early pick-up requests for students are now handled at the student counter. Please follow the signs to the window at the back of the Administration Building.
LATE STUDENTS
There are a growing number of students who are being picked up later than expected after the 2:30 PM dismissal.
We are asking parents and guardians to be mindful of the pickup times and make arrangements, when possible, to ensure students are collected promptly. If late pickups become a frequent occurrence, it could also be helpful to explore alternative solutions, such as after-school programs or extended care options that might better meet the needs of busy families.
Celebrating our Year 6 Leaders
A big congratulations to our Year 6 leaders for receiving their well-earned badges at last week’s parade! Your commitment and effort have truly shone, and we are incredibly proud of each one of you.
Being a school leader is an important responsibility—it’s about setting a positive example, inspiring others, and helping to shape the culture of our school. The morning tea shared with friends and staff was a wonderful way to celebrate your achievements. Keep up the great work and continue to make our school proud!
Deadly Choices Program: Building Health Knowledge
We are so proud of our students for their fantastic effort in the Deadly Choices program! This program helps them learn more about their health and the role they play in supporting their own and their family’s well-being.
Our students were fully engaged—completing worksheets, doing homework, joining in discussions, and having fun with games! It’s wonderful to see them taking responsibility for their health.
Great job to all the students for their hard work and dedication! Keep it up, team! 🙌👏
Wheat Wonders: Crafting and Tasting in Prep Class
The Prep classes had a wonderful time learning about wheat. The children made fun crafts using wheat kernels, which helped them understand how wheat is used in different ways. They also had the chance to taste some fresh, homemade bread, which was a big hit!
A special thank you goes to Miss Suhannah for not only providing the delicious bread but also sharing some interesting photos from her bakery. It was a fun and educational lesson filled with hands-on activities and tasty treats!
Celebrate International Women's Day with Us!
🌸Join us in honouring the amazing women who inspire, empower, and make a difference in our lives. 🌸
📅 Date: Friday 7th March
⏰ Time: 10:30am - 1:30pm
This is a celebration for EVERYONE! All are invited to be part of this special occasion. Let's uplift and support each other as we mark this important day!
Book Fair
Join Us for the P&C Meeting – March 18th at 3 PM
We’d like to invite all parents and caregivers to our next P&C meeting on March 18th at 3:00 PM. This is a great opportunity to stay informed, share your ideas, and get involved in shaping our school community. The meeting will take place in the administration building. We hope you can join us as we discuss important updates and upcoming events. Your participation is valuable, and we look forward to seeing you there!
Year 5 and 6 Camp EOI
Is Your Contact Information Up to Date?
Have you recently moved, changed your phone number, or updated your email address? Make sure we have your current details so you don’t miss any important school updates!
You can easily update your information via QParents, or contact the office at 4421 2333.
Stay connected – keep your details up to date today!
Camp Australia Newsletter
Naplan
NAPLAN Testing
Our students in Years 3 and 5 will be undertaking NAPLAN Online testing in Term 1(Weeks 7-8) this year. NAPLAN moved online in 2021 bringing with it many advantages including a test design that offers test items tailored to students' knowledge and ability levels. The Years 3 and 5 online test sequence is: 1. Writing (paper for Year 3 only) 2. Reading 3. Conventions of language (spelling, grammar and punctuation) 4. Numeracy
Some particular points to note are:
- Year 5 students must complete the writing test within the first two days of the test window
- Each student must complete the reading test before they sit the conventions of language test
- Catch-up sessions are scheduled for students who are absent for testing sessions, where possible
NAPLAN Online numeracy, reading and conventions of language are tailored or adaptive tests. Tailored testing provides a more engaging test for students and a more precise assessment of student performance. Students at each year level start with a similar set of questions. Depending on each student's answers, the next set of questions may be easier or more difficult, giving students greater opportunity to demonstrate what they know.
We will also be conducting a practice session next week. This is an excellent opportunity to fine tune any technical and logistical needs, as well as familiarise students and teachers with the online testing process. Student data is deidentified and will not be collected or monitored throughout the test.
Parents and caregivers of children in these NAPLAN year levels will need to be aware of important information relating to privacy, which can be found on the NAPLAN Online Queensland website's parent information page.
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to visit the NAPLAN Online Public Demonstration site at https://www.nap.edu.au/naplan/public-demonstration-site to view models of the online testing and provide students with further opportunities to interact with the platform.
An information brochure can be accessed at https://nap.edu.au/default.aspx?aspxerrorpath=/docs/default-source/default-document-library/naplan-information-brochure-for-parents-and%20carers.pdf.
For further information regarding NAPLAN Online, including privacy statements, please visit https://www.nap.edu.au/online-assessment
New School Uniform Policy is in Effect
As of this year, the old uniform is no longer permitted, and all students are required to wear the new uniform, which aims to foster a sense of unity and pride throughout our school community.
The new school uniform includes the following items:
- Aitkenvale State School polo shirt ($30)
- Aitkenvale State School bucket hat ($15)
- Black shorts, skirt, or pants
- Enclosed shoes (suitable for school activities)
- White socks
Uniforms are available for purchase through the school office. If you have not yet purchased your child’s uniform, we encourage you to do so as soon as possible to ensure readiness for the 2025 school year. This change applies to all students, and the previous uniform is no longer permitted.
Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring that all students are in full compliance with the new uniform guidelines. If you have any questions, feel free to contact the office at 4421 2333.
QParents
We are transitioning to a digital platform in 2025 and encourage all parents to register for QParent. To complete your registration, you will need your invitation email and your child’s EQ ID number.
If you require any assistance, please don’t hesitate to ask one of our admin staff for help.
Student of the Week - Week 5
Prep A | Moses | For sustained effort sounding out words. |
Prep B | Zakariya | For your continued improvement towards retelling key events in stories. Keep it up! |
1A | Faila | For being a hard worker during PLD and having a go at all spelling words. |
1B | Abdoulaye | For really putting in effort during PLD and English with a focus on sounding out words. |
2A | Nehemie | For always being enthusiastic during Spelling lessons. Keep up the great work! |
2B | Mariam | For being a positive role model and always having safe hands and feet. |
2C | Tommy | Keeping his hands and feet to himself. |
3A | Arlo | For outstanding persistence when expressing and relating opinions of what makes a desirable friend. |
3B | Antoine | For always bringing joy to our 3B family and trying his best in class. |
3/4C | Nasra | For always being ready to learn. A quiet achiever! |
3/4C | Name Withheld | For always giving her best to tasks, even when they are a challenge. |
4A | Hassan | For participating enthusiastically in PLD lessons every day |
4/5C | Theodore | For being a respectful and responsible member of the class and having a positive attitude to his learning. |
5A | Amne | For consistently following classroom expectations |
5B | Te Paea | Independent industrious inquisitive initiator. |
5/6C | Rayaan | For being a hard-working motivated student. |
6A | Joseph | For always doing his best with his learning |
6B | Uniqua | Consistently working on her persuasive essay and excellent manners. |
Inclusion | Memphis -Rose | For always being kind to others |
Inclusion | Dakota | For always being kind to others. |
Technology | 2B | For excellent effort in designing greeting cards with a moving component. |
Literacy Pathways Ms Brown | Jayden | For excellent effort in Pathways lessons - always participating and completing tasks. |
Literacy Pathways Ms Brown | Sharifu | For completing all homework tasks and nightly reading in Pathways class. |
Literacy Pathways Mrs Grady | Emmanuella | For improved listening and following instructions. |
Literacy Pathways Mrs Grady | Aime | For always working hard, being kind and listening to others. |
LOTE | Miski | Excellent focus in Japanese |
LOTE | Jaiden | Excellent focus in Japanese |
LOTE | Class of the week | 5/6C |
Student of the Week - Week 6
Prep A | Etho | For being a responsible and helpful class member who is always willing to help others and give things a go. |
Prep B | Joshua | For working very hard to learn and remember your SATPIN sounds. Well done! |
Prep B | Prince | For showing kindness and helping a new student settle into class. |
1A | Jacobis | Showing dedication in his English work. |
2A | Shenelle | For working extremely hard on her social place presentation |
2B | Ibrahim | For showing great listening skills and his brilliant effort when writing about his special place. |
2C | Avianna | Being in the right place at the right time for her learning. |
3A | Koumbal | For demonstrating exemplary behaviour in the classroom. |
3B | Grace | For always giving 110% in your learning and being a good role model to your peers. |
3/4C | Mahamat | For working hard on his English persuasive speech and asking for assistance when needed. |
3/4C | Koubra | For consistently trying her best even, when tasks are challenging. |
4A | Rodrigue | For trying in hardest in all lessons |
4/5C | Dalhia | For engaging well in PLD lessons and completing activities. |
4/5C | Grant | For being a responsible learner, engaging in lessons and participating in class. |
5A | Jwockonguti | For improved engagement in learning. |
5B | Mussabaker | Multi-talented, motivated and magnanimous member of 5B. |
5/6C | Asifiwe | For being a motivated and hardworking in class. |
6A | Lasharni | For showing great understanding of angles in maths |
6B | Saione | Answering lots of questions and being a good listener. |
Inclusion | Emmanuel 6B | For helping others. |
Technology | 1B | For excellent effort in creating a pop-up card with a moving component. |
Literacy Pathways Mrs Grady | Patrice | Working well in class and participating in all activities. |
Literacy Pathways Mrs Grady | Jeanette | Listening and looking at the speaker and being kind always. |
Literacy Pathways Ms Brown | Josaline | For excellent use of sounds & reading words in PLD spelling in Pathways Lessons. |
Literacy Pathways Ms Brown | Fassal | For a great writing lesson in Pathways - having great focus & attention to detail with his handwriting. |
LOTE | Baraka | Excellent work during Japanese class |
LOTE | Gloria | Excellent work during Japanese class |
LOTE | 5A | Class of the week |
Do You Qualify for Free Internet?
Do you qualify for free home internet to support your child’s education? To ensure all students have equal opportunity for online learning, the Australian Government has extended the School Student Broadband Initiative (SSBI) to continue free NBN broadband access until 30 June 2028. There are limited places available nationally. For more information or to check your eligibility, please contact the National Referral Centre on 1800 954 610 or visit http://www.anglicarevic.org.au/student-internet.
School Absences
Medication Reminder
Important: Updating Student Details
UPDATING STUDENT DETAILS
It is extremely important that students' personal details such as contact telephone numbers, email addresses and emergency contacts are correct and up to date so you can be contacted if your child is unwell or needing medical attention. It is also very important that we are aware of all medical conditions.
Please email admin@aitkenvaless.eq.edu.au or contact the office to update your child’s details.
School Watch
The School Watch Program is a partnership between Education Queensland, the Queensland Police Service and the State Government Protective Security Service. It aims to reduce criminal activity in Queensland schools and encourages everyone to look out for after-hours crime in our schools. If you see anything suspicious, please don’t attempt to intervene.
Look, Listen, Report. Call School Watch on 13 17 88.
If you see a crime in progress, call Triple Zero (000).
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