17 October 2019

Newsletter Articles

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Hello Swan Reach,

It is highly important for students to apply the 5 keys to successful life-long learning (organisation, confidence, getting along, persistence and resilience) every term, however it is vital that they ‘dig in’ this term to finish with the best possible outcomes. Their ability to persist and be resilient to finish strongly will significantly affect their academic endeavours and results. SRAS encourages our seniors to apply these skills as they hone in on completing their well-deserved SACE accreditation. You Can Do It!

I am pleased to announce that I have won the principal’s tenure for 2020-2024. I look forward to further collaborations with all stakeholders as we continue to implement our improvement plan and array of initiatives.

MOVIE NIGHT @ SRAS

SRAS encourages all families to attend this free community event sponsored by Mid Murray Family Connections, AC Care – Murray Bridge and SRAS. The focus is firmly on family and fun. It will be held in the gymnasium next Friday, 25th October, to coincide with Children’s Week. A $150 voucher for the Swan Reach Hotel will be the door prize. There will be a free BBQ, minor activities and popcorn and doughnuts available for purchase. An enormous thank you in advance to Mrs Kristy Castle for her enthusiasm and organisation of this event. For more information refer to the advertisement within this newsletter.

MUSIC EDUCATION STRATEGY

Congratulations SRAS and well done to Mr Peter Jesser for applying for, and winning a substantial Music Education Strategy Grant. Following on from the demands and success of music lessons this year, the funds will be used primarily to purchase new music equipment that is more user friendly for primary aged students. The Music Strategy is tightly linked to the department’s ambition to become a great education system and the power of music to assist ALL learners’ academic, cognitive, social and behavioural growth is scientifically proven.

The project involves creating a system of individual instrumental lessons at Swan Reach Area School, involving small groups that allow students to work both individually and with a group. Opportunity is provided for all families and students to take lessons in one of vocal/ keyboards/ guitar/ bass guitar or drums. It has a strong focus on sustainability and the creation of music programs that classroom teachers can deliver. It will be highly innovative and advocates for strong community links.

There are a lot of logistics and ideas needed to be discussed, shared and agreed upon as SRAS implements this strategy over the next couple of years. The demand by students and families to engage in music lessons is keenly sought after, with a high number of responses to the music survey issued last term.

BUSH TUCKER GARDEN

Through the enthusiasm, organisation and hard work of Mrs Trena Williamson and Mr Phil Carter, our Bush Tucker Garden has begun. SRAS thanks the consultation and input of our ATSI families and thank them in advance for on-going consultation in this project. The garden goes beyond planting - the vision is that it will produce native ingredients that can be used in Home Ec lessons and recipes. The design of the garden encourages interaction and some nature play elements.

Mr John Robertson
Principal

24 Hour Pedal Prix

Wow! What a fantastic event the 24 hour pedal prix was and what a great way to showcase our school values. The riders who represented Black Swan Racing at Murray Bridge were amazing. The students pushed themselves way beyond their own expectations, demonstrating inner strength both physically and mentally. To say, Mr Carter and myself were very impressed with the group’s effort was an understatement. The students worked together creating a positive team environment, encouraging each other to smash goals they thought were out of reach. This was absolutely amazing. Thanks to all the staff and crew that supported Black Swan Racing this year. A special mention to Cassie Wiebrecht for putting together a terrific video of the experience, even returning at 3am to capture the moments. Follow the Youtube link to check out the presentation.

Mr Greg Griffiths
Pedal Prix Teacher

Year 2-5 Book Reports

Year 8-9 Adelaide Camp

The 8/9 Adelaide Camp began at SRAS on Monday the 16th of September. From there, the group departed the country and entered the hustle and bustle of city life. The first activity planned was two games of Ten Pin Bowling and two games of Laser Skirmish at ZONE Bowling. These activities not only exhibited students’ frustration with how difficult bowling is, but it also demonstrated a lot of teamwork within the Laser Skirmish arena. The day ended with a Trivia Night quiz, fresh Krispy Kreme donuts provided by Mr. Robertson (in moderation) and an early bedtime to prepare the students for the next day. Ice Skating at IceArenA and Rock Climbing at Vertical Reality consumed most of day two. Despite a few tumbles and grazed knees, the day was relatively smooth sailing with every student trying the activities. Day two concluded with a stop off at Marion Event Cinemas to watch either Hobbs and Shaw or The Lion King. The final day saw students try out the brand new and world first AFL MAX arena. This was a fantastic experience all round, which saw the students try a whole host of activities and games. The camp was made extra special considering the students had the first taste of living in the ‘real-world.’ Throughout HASS, all students took part in the $20 Boss program which allowed them to raise money in an attempt to make a profit. The profit made went towards food for the camp so the students were extremely keen throughout the program considering their dinner was on the line. Overall, the behaviour and effort from all students across the board was exceptional. Each student represented the school with pride and both myself and Miss Griffiths were very proud of the group we were fortunate enough to supervise.

Mr Alex Pfeiffer

WHEEL TO WALK

SRAS WEBSITE

The Swan Reach Area School website has now been released, here you can find all the school information including the newsletter, forms and polices. Please visit https://swanrchas.sa.edu.au and check out our new look website.

NEWSLETTER INFORMATION

Due Date for the next Newsletter is 10:00am, Tuesday 29 October 2019. Please note that as from this term the newsletter will be distributed via the SZApp and school website. Printed copies are still available upon request.

Articles can be emailed to dl.0423.info@schools.sa.edu.au clearly marked in the subject box as Newsletter, faxed to 8570 2325 or delivered to the library/front office.

Due to the way the Newsletter is now being set up, not all photos are included in the print copy, however there are several photo galleries included online and via the SZApp.

Library News – BOOK FAIR

This term the book fair will be held in the Silver Vale ‘pop up shop’ Monday 28th October to 4th November 2019. This is a great opportunity to stock up for Christmas! Students can visit during Lunch times (1.00pm – 1.25pm), parents and carers are welcome during the day, see library staff to arrange a visit.

Playgroup

Swan Reach Playgroup at SRAS Early Learning Centre. Tuesdays during term time 10am-12pm. All children birth to school age are welcome for indoor and outdoor play. Please wear sun-smart clothing, bring a hat, water bottle and fruit/veg to share for healthy snack time. $2 per session, per family. Contact Kristy Castle 0438857721

P-CMG

In term 4 sessions will be held fortnightly on Tuesdays in Odd weeks of term

(Weeks 1, 3, 5 & 7... nothing in the last week) instead of Thursdays. Still at ELC, still starting at 10am. Trained facilitators Kristy and Claire lead a relaxed session for parents and children with a play and coffee n chat after. Sessions are free and there is no booking involved! Contact Kristy Castle 0438857721.

Pink Stumps Day

Coming Events

Community Notice Board

Kids Club

3:15pm-4:30pm FRIDAY 1st Novemner, 2019 at the Swan Reach Lutheran Hall. For Reception to Year 6 students. Cost $1. Enquiries Phone Taryn 0427 702 377 or Kristy 0438 857 721.

Movie Night

Movie Night 25th October 2019 - Friday Week 2, Term 4. A FREE "We Matter" community event for families, to celebrate National Children's Week (19-27th October 2019). Co-hosted by SRAS and Mid Murray Family Connections at the Swan Reach Area School Gym and Oval. Activities on the oval from 4pm all afternoon/evening and 2 family movies showing in the gym. The Lego Movie 2 @ 4:30pm and The Princess Bride @ 7pm. Activities include - Kindergym for toddlers/preschoolers, craft tables, giant grass games, OPAL smoothie bike, Fun for Youth Van activities and more. Free sausage sizzle tea for all, snacks and drinks also available. Bring blankets/ cushions/ bean bags for comfy movie viewing. Door Prize for one lucky moviegoer.

Free Parenting Seminar

Chaffcutters Ball

Swan Reach Hotel Social Club