Welcome to Term Two!

We've had a busy three weeks with students participating in many events, and there's more to come. It's wonderful that our students at Sheffield School have so many opportunities to grow and learn.

On Wednesday, 30 April, we were honoured to have Her Excellency the Governor of Tasmania, along with her husband Professor Chalmers, and Mayor Haberle and her husband Mr. Haberle, visit our school farm as part of her itinerary in the Kentish area. Our SRC members spoke to Her Excellency about the school farm and other educational programs. We were all very impressed and proud of our students; they spoke clearly and confidently. Our guests couldn't speak highly enough of them and their presentations.

During the school holidays, a small group of students represented Sheffield School by laying wreaths at the ANZAC Day service and reading aloud essays they had written. The RSL spoke highly of the students and their presentations. We are grateful to these students for taking time out of their holidays to represent our school.

Last week, agricultural classes experienced Agfest. Many students spent the day exploring various stalls and learning about all things agricultural. Staff who attended reported that the students represented the school well and demonstrated exceptional behaviour.

Since the start of Term Two, the weather has become cooler, and we've noticed a small number of students wearing non-school hoodies. Our expectation is that all students wear the school uniform. This demonstrates pride in our school and ensures safety, as uniforms make it easier to identify students both on school grounds and during trips. If you need assistance purchasing a uniform, please contact me at school so we can support you. We are also looking for donations of second-hand uniforms to offer to students who don't always have one. If you have items to donate, please drop them off at our office at a convenient time.

Recently, we've noticed an increase in inappropriate language in the primary area, especially in the playground. Teachers will be speaking to their classes about our value of respect and the importance of using appropriate, positive language. A letter will be sent home to parents/carers in the coming week, seeking your support in discussing  with your child the importance of respectful and acceptable language.

One of our school priorities is attendance. Regular attendance is crucial for children to gain the skills and knowledge needed for success now and in the future. Attending school every day gives your child the best chance to learn, grow, and connect with friends and teachers. It's where 'bright lives' and 'positive futures' begin.

This year, we reinstated homeroom in the senior school to help develop connections between staff and students. Each day, there are HR quizzes, challenges, and competitions. During this time, we have also been focusing on student attendance. Students have been setting personal goals based on their attendance so far and will continually review their goals. Have a chat with your child about their attendance goal and discuss ways you can support them in achieving it. If your child is away, please contact the school at your earliest convenience. If you need support in getting your child to school, let one of the senior staff know.

Currently, staff are working on mid-year reports and evidence of learning samples for some subjects, which will be shared with parents and carers. There will also be opportunities for three-way conversations where reports, student progress, and next steps in learning can be discussed. Remember, you can talk to your child's teacher at any time if you have concerns about their learning progress.

This year, the School Cattle Handling Committee has been reinstated. This is a positive move forward, providing an opportunity for parents and community members to work together with staff and students. There will be a public committee meeting on June 24 at 7 pm at the school farm. It would be great to see some new faces. If you're interested in joining the committee or volunteering in any way, please come along. If you can't attend but would still like to be involved, you can contact Nikki Jackson at 64918222.

We hope to see many parents/carers throughout the term, whether at our next assembly, cross-country carnival, or three-way conversations. We appreciate your involvement in your child's education.

Wendy Leonard
Acting Principal