Newsletter Term 4 Week 5
From the Acting Principal
Its Week 5 already and what an amazing term we are having at Runcorn State School. It has been wonderful to celebrate our learning with you all through Facebook and our newsletters. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our wonderful staff for their continual commitment to our Runcorn Community.
Thank you to our non-teaching staff for the healthy and delicious lunch they prepared for staff to celebrate World Teachers Day. It was very much appreciated.
We have been enjoying Pre Prep sessions with our 2025 Prep students and next week they will have their Orientation session. If you haven’t yet enrolled your child into 2025 Prep, please do so asap so that we can include them in the Orientation session.
As we begin planning for 2025 class placements, we would like to extend our appreciation for your understanding of the many factors involved in ensuring each child’s needs are thoughtfully considered to support all students in a positive, inclusive school community.. Creating balanced, supportive, and cohesive classes is a process that requires us to take a range of factors into account, including gender balance, friendships, students who work best when separated, and the needs of those with specific learning requirements.
To support your child’s social and emotional wellbeing, we offer every student the chance to nominate a couple of friends they would like to be placed in class with next year, and we make every effort to ensure each child is with at least one of their selected friends. Please let email your child’s class teacher with information that may affect the formation of 2025 classes. Requests by parents or students for specific teachers cannot be accommodated.
If your child will not be returning to Runcorn State School in 2025, please let us know as this information helps us to plan class placements, staffing, and resources effectively for all students. If your child will be leaving at the end of 2024, please inform your child’s class teacher or send an email to admin@runcornss.qld.edu.au
Roberta Matlock.
From the Acting Deputy Principal
It’s hard to believe how quickly this term has flown. It’s been wonderful to visit classrooms and see our students fully engaged in their learning, while also demonstrating the Runcorn values with their peers and teachers. It’s clear that everyone has been working hard and putting in their best effort, and I feel incredibly lucky to be part of such a motivated and supportive school community.
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank our amazing teachers and staff, whose dedication and hard work continue to make a positive impact on our students’ growth. I also want to extend my appreciation to our families for their ongoing support and involvement – your encouragement truly makes a difference in our students’ success.
This term, we’ve had many special events such as our Pre-Prep sessions, the Virginia SS band performance, the Remembrance Ceremony, and a variety of year-level incursions and excursions. These experiences provide valuable learning opportunities outside the classroom.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to celebrate our students' achievements at the upcoming Academic Awards Parade. This will be a wonderful opportunity to recognise the hard work and determination of our students across all year levels.
As we head into the second half of Term 4, let’s continue to encourage our students to give their best and to make the most of the exciting learning opportunities that are still to come.
Cathy Seto-Payne
From the Head of Department - Curriculum
Version 9 Curriculum – Mathematical Modelling
Next year, the students at Runcorn State School will be learning English and Mathematics content from Version 9 of the Australian Curriculum. Throughout the year teachers have been busy planning units and assessment tasks aligned with the new curriculum. One concept that we recently unpacked as a staff is Mathematical Modelling. Mathematical Modelling is a mathematical process involving the identification of a real-world problem, formulating and finding a solution to the problem mathematically using knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts, structures and relationships. A simple example of this would be when you scale a recipe up or down, you’re using math to model the proportions of ingredients. If you want to double a cookie recipe, you adjust all the ingredient amounts accordingly. Or, kids can use math to model their savings. If they save a certain amount of money each week, they can create a simple model to predict how much they will have after a few weeks, helping them reach a goal, like buying a toy.
By using mathematical modelling, we can gain insights that help us make informed decisions and solve real-world problems.
Jillian Chittenden
Head of Department - Inclusion
From the Acting HODI
Inclusive education is more than a policy; it’s a commitment to fostering a learning environment where every student feels valued and supported. As we continue to navigate an increasingly diverse world, the meaning of inclusive education is even more significant.
Inclusive education ensures that students of all backgrounds, abilities, and experiences have access to quality education. This approach benefits not only those with differing abilities but enriches the learning experiences of all students. When classrooms embrace diversity, they cultivate empathy, enhance social skills, and prepare students for a collaborative future.
At Runcorn, the key strategies for promoting inclusion include differentiated instruction, collaborative teaching models, and the use of adaptive technologies. Educators are encouraged to create curricula that reflect diverse perspectives and to involve families in the learning process.
As we strive for inclusivity, it's essential to foster a culture of respect and understanding within schools. By prioritising inclusion, we can create a more equitable educational landscape, empowering every learner to thrive.
Let’s work together to champion inclusive practices and ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed. Together, we can build a brighter future for all.
Julie Schooth
Norman's News
This past pawtnight has been such a joy for me as I’ve discovered a new passion – and it’s for writing letters! You might think that a pup like me would prefer chasing my ball or rolling in the grass, but let me tell you, there’s something magical about putting paw to paper - and still juggling my ball (with a little help from Mrs Schooth, of course).
Every day, I’m surrounded by so much love and excitement and when I recently received a letter from one of the Prep classes, it immediately reminded me that writing letters is the pawfect way to express my feelings, tell my tails, and connect with my favourite humans—near and far.
So when Mrs Schooth sits down with a pen, I can’t help but wag my tail in anticipation. I love to dictate my thoughts and sometimes, I even add little doodles—who knew that paw prints could be considered art? Each letter is a treasure, a piece of my heart sent out into the world.
There’s also something wonderful about receiving letters in return. When Mrs Schooth is given a letter just for me, I can’t contain my excitement. I may not understand all the words, but the love is palpable. It’s like getting a warm belly rub from the inside out.
So this week I am encouraging all my furry friends to give letter writing a try. It’s a great way to brighten someone’s day. Whether you’re thanking your favourite treat supplier or inviting your pals for a playdate, your words can bring smiles and tail wags.
So, grab a pen (or paw) and start spreading joy! Please write some letters to friends, family or even me! You’ll be amazed at how much love can be shared through a few scribbles on a page.
Until next time,
Big licks and tail wags,
Norman
Music Matters
Save the date:
Week 6 November 7- Virginia State School Instrumental Music Tour
Week 7 November 11- Remembrance Ceremony
Week 8 November 19- Music and Academic Awards 9:30am
Week 8 November 19- Strings family afternoon 3-4pm
Week 9 November 26- End of Year Concert- whole school at Sunnybank State High School
Week 10 December 4- Graduation
END OF YEAR CONCERT
Our End of Year Concert is coming up quickly. Every year level has been preparing 2 songs to perform at Sunnybank State High School on the evening of November 26th. It will be an exciting way to send out our year and we look forward to seeing everyone there. The P&C will be raffling off hampers and there will be food and drink to purchase from 5pm.
VIRGINIA STATE SCHOOL Tour
On Thursday November 7th we are fortunate enough to have the performance troupe from Virginia State School coming to perform to us. Virginia State School has a concert band of 105 students and a stage band of 30. They are the inaugural State and National winners of the ABC Classic FM and Music Play for Life “FLAME AWARDS” as well as the recipients of many Regional and Finalist Showcase awards.
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC: Instruments for 2025.
Some students in the Instrumental Music program will be required to purchase their own instruments for the 2025 program. Check the table to see if you are required to do this. Please see your Band or Strings teacher if you require assistance or advice with this.
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC: Continuing in 2025:
Forms will go out this week to advise as to whether students will be continuing in the Instrumental Music program in 2025. Please return these ASAP as numbers help us plan for the 2025 program.
PERFORMANCES THIS TERM
Dates for Band: Music and Academic Awards- Week 8 November 19
Dates for Strings: Music and Academic Awards- Week 8 November 19 (Senior Strings)
Strings family afternoon concert - Week 8 November 19 (Beginner and Junior Strings)
Dates for Choir: Remembrance Day ceremony- Week 7 November 11
Music and Academic Awards- Week 8 November 19
SENIOR CHOIR
The last rehearsal for Senior Choir will be in Week 7 of this term.
Ms Mariel Hopper (mxhop2@eq.edu.au)
Sports News
We are holding a handball tournament for Grades 1 to 6 during Week 11. The tournament is designed to be a fun way to end the school year and certainly is not to be taken too seriously – we are not playing for sheep stations!
For those students who would like to attend a more competitive tournament, the BRISBANE SCHOOL'S HANDBALL COMPETITION is on again this term.
A summary of the key information is below:
Term 4, Sunday 17th November 2024
The Arena at Sleeman Sport Complex
Old Cleveland Rd &, Tilley Rd, Chandler QLD 4155
Time: 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Cost: $25 +GST
Year 1 - Year 12
75+ Trophies, Medals & Awards
150+ Schools Invited
Enrolment deadline: Friday 15th, 5pm before event date
More information can be found at https://handballaustralia.com.au/payment/menu.php#Competition
We have had 4 students go to the competition in Term 2 and, from all reports, had a great time.
We are holding our junior swimming carnival Term 4 Week 10 Thursday, December 5th. The carnival will run from 9am to 11am. Students from Prep to Grade 2 are invited to attend.
Please email me with any questions.
Mr Brady
lbrad101@eq.edu.au
Health Happenings
Our assembly awards focus this fortnight are the Persistence Key and the Researcher Learning Asset.
Persistence at Runcorn State School looks like:
- Students trying their best when completing challenging tasks
- Students finishing their work on time
- Students avoiding distractions when completing learning activities
Effective Researchers at Runcorn State School are:
- Curious
- Courageous
- Resourceful
At the beginning of Week 5, two tickets from each year level were randomly selected. Our Principal, Mrs McClure, celebrated with those students at a special afternoon tea. The next afternoon tea with Mrs McClure will be held at the end of Week 10.
Sheridan Stirling
sstir16@eq.edu.au
Japanese News
Dear parents and carer of Year 6 students, iplease return the parent consent form for “Japanese online exchange” which with no cost involved ASAP.
- Year 5
Students have learnt about furoshiki – a squared fabric that is used for a variety of situation. They enjoyed exploring how to wrap gifts. Now they are researching another sustainable invention in Japan of their choice as an assessment task.
- Year 6
On week 4 the year 6 Japanese bento incursion was held. Some students volunteered to be staff at our Japanese restaurant and welcomed customers saying “irasshaimase!”
All student customers ordered their bento in Japanese.
Artificial food samples
School Photos
You can view and purchase the group images at the Advanced life link below.
www.advancedlife.com.au enter the code: RJYQRZJ39 and click on "Group Photos"
Important
- Sports and co-curricular group photos can only be purchased online, PLEASE DO NOT return payment to your school.
From the Administration Office
Student Resource Scheme 2025 Update
At Runcorn State School, we strive to achieve the best learning outcomes for all students. Each year, we request a voluntary contribution from parents to support the provision of essential teaching and learning resources.
We are pleased to advise that P&C approved that the SRS fee for 2025 will be $15.00 per student. The Instrumental music levies will remain unchanged in 2025 ($60.00 for own instrument; $100.00 for hired instrument).
Why has it reduced?
Earlier this year, the Department of Education issued a directive to all schools to review school fees in light of the rising cost of living.
A detailed list of what the $15.00 will cover is provided below has been uploaded to our website.
Thank you for your continued support in ensuring the best educational outcomes for our students. If you have any questions please contact the office.
Attendance
Runcorn State School's Admin team are available between 8.00am and 3.30pm each school day. You can contact us on 3323 8777 if you have any queries.
Student absence can be entered via QParents, text to 0429 928 611 or a voice message can be left on 3323 8777 and press option 1.
If students arrive to school from 9.00 am onwards they are to present to the office to collect a late slip. This ensures that our rolls are marked correctly and prevents parents from receiving incorrect absence texts.
First Aid Processes
If children are injured or become ill at school they will receive treatment within the classroom or in the Health Room. Parents/Carers will be contacted if necessary. Please note that staff must give Parents and Carers a courtesy contact home for all head related injuries (no matter how minor).
If a student presents to the health room with a suspected allergic reaction, parents/carers will be contacted. As per Education Queensland policy, if a student requires an EpiPen to be administered parents will be notified. An ambulance must be called and the student will be transported to hospital for further treatment.
Medication must be prescribed by a doctor or dentist and can only be administered to students by school staff after a consent form has been signed by a parent. The medication must be in its prescription container and administered according to the doctor’s instructions.
Non prescribed oral medication such as Panadol and cough mixtures can only be administered by school staff with a pharmacy label and medical authorisation. Education Queensland prohibits students from carrying their own medication. Parents/Carers to deliver the prescribed medication to the office and collect after school or before weekends as needed. A school register of all medicines administered is kept.
Incursion/Excursion/Camp Payments
Runcorn State School is now a cashless school. Thank you for continuing to pay for your children's incursions/excursions/camp payments via our preferred methods:- QParents, BPoint and EFTPOS. If you require any assistance paying via BPoint, please contact the school office. Unfortunately we are unable to accept payments over the phone.
Newsletters
Don't forget that you can always collect a hard copy of the current newsletter from the office. You can also view/download it from our website: https://runcornss.schoolzineplus.com/enews?nid=23 You can also download the Schoolzine App from your App Store. Once downloaded, search for Runcorn State School and use password 4109, when prompted. Happy reading.
P & C Association
Jabiru
Welcome to Term 4 Week 5 of 2024! Can you believe that we are already in Term 4!
The year might be ending, but at Jabiru we aren’t slowing down! This Term has already been so busy with Recycled Paper Making, Mission Possible, First Aiding at Movie Night, Fire Drills, Staff Training, Bandana Day, Day for Daniel along with learning to cut up the fruit for Afternoon Tea and taking care of the Worm Farms around the school.
When we were looking back on what to talk about this Newsletter, it was hard for us to decide and to cut it down to just a few things. Looking through our photos at all the great things that we are achieving, how can we fit all of that into one article? We will try our best!
At Jabiru Runcorn, we have been learning about how healthy food helps us with Brain Power and Physical Activity. To help with this learning process, the children have been cutting up fruit in the morning session for us to use in the afternoon session. We use a special knife called ‘Kiddikutter’ that allows the children the experience of cutting up their own food without the risk of sharp edges or injuries. The results have been amazing with children not only learning a new life skill but also being able to say that they have contributed to the Jabiru Community with assisting in the making of our Afternoon Tea. This instils a sense of pride and accomplishment within the children in our care.
*A great side note: all the scraps from our fruit and veg prep goes to feeding the worm farms around the school!
As part of our Sustainability effort for the Planet and the school, we have looked at the process of Paper Making. We shredded Coles bags from the groceries, added water and mulched it up in a container. The paper became very soggy and mushy. We then put the mush in a paper sieve and squeeze the water out. We were left with something that looked like a piece of paper. We had to let this dry over the weekend. We couldn’t believe the end result! It actually looks like paper! We have added the recycled paper to our Recycle Craft Area and are eagerly awaiting what masterpieces will be created!
Another significant activity that we were involved in, was the Day for Daniel. This day holds a special place for us at Jabiru Runcorn. It’s a day that we can make our children aware of how serious personal safety is for them and others around them. Child Safety is our number one priority at Jabiru Runcorn. We believe that it is a child’s right to be and feel safe wherever they may be. Whether it be at OSHC, School, while they are shopping or playing with friends. Through our Yarning Circle discussions, we talked about how to Recognise React Report, which are the three recommendations from the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.
Our educators also held a monthly staff meeting, getting together to discuss the upcoming Vacation Care Program as well as menu ideas and ideas for the Term Program. We also did some training on creating a Quality Improvement Plan for the service. This Plan or "QIP helps us to create steps we need to move forward. Creating a better space for the children in our care.
If you’d like to see what is on at Jabiru Runcorn, come and have a look at our Jabiru Board, located at the front of the Jabiru Room. (Old Library)
Community News
Jabiru offers before and after school care and vacation care at Runcorn State School. Our team includes a range of friendly people who are into craft, sport and outdoor exploration, so there’s something for everyone at Jabiru Runcorn.
