Dear Franklin Families,

This week I would like to highlight some examples of programs that support learning across the school. Firstly the school’s Daily P.E program. This has been a long standing whole school activity that not only encourages healthy exercise but also supports the development of leadership skills in our students. I have been very impressed by the commitment of our Year 5 and 6 leaders, in particular their ability to support some of our younger students. The leaders are extremely well organised and very patient with their peers, but most of all they still enjoy the experience of participating in and leading activities. It is always a very impressive sight to see the whole school involved in physical activity. Each morning there are students learning ball skills, completing an obstacle course or power walking around the school perimeter. It is important to mention that this program would not run as smoothly without the support and careful planning given by teachers Joshua Mitchell and Neil Holmstrom. Another program that successfully encourages positive social interaction and promotes academic gains across the school is the Peer Reading program co-ordinated by Mrs Leaman. Our peer tutors are carefully trained to use problem solving strategies and appropriate feedback and encouragement to those younger students they are paired with for reading. Peer Tutors are not reading teachers, so they do not teach new reading skills.   However, peer tutors are ideal for the role of reading helpers who motivate and encourage readers to practice their reading skills.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Lastly, it is also important to make mention of the class buddy program where older students are paired with younger class groups to share activities planned by teachers. Our buddy program aims to strengthen the school community and helps students to feel valued and supported. It teaches important social skills and creates a caring and respectful school culture.

Uniform

With the cold weather upon us it is important children are rugged up at school to enjoy their play time outside however non-school hoodies and jumpers are not part of Franklin Primary uniform. Please ensure your child wears a school uniform jumper or fleecy jacket. If they do not have access to one we have plenty of spares that can be borrowed from the school office. In line with the Department of Education Guidelines the everyday uniform must be worn to school.

Could parents please ensure that students wear appropriate footwear on the day that they have Physical Education with Mr Mitchell: every Tuesday. Runners, not gumboots, are the best option for students so that they can comfortably participate in sport activities.

Have a great week.                                                                                                              

Linda Heerey