Dear Parents and Carers

It has been a special week at Canterbury learning more about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and exploring how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. Some of the highlights include:

National Reconciliation Week: Charmaine Ledden-Lewis Illustrator Talk

National Reconciliation Week: Special Assembly 

National Reconciliation Week: P&C Afternoon Tea

National Reconciliation Week: Connection to Country

In addition, teachers designed lessons aligned to this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme and the PBL focus explored why we say sorry. Stage 2’s lesson incorporated Socratic circles to facilitate rich conversations about reconciliation and develop actions we can take to build a better future. Learning intentions and success criteria made the lesson’s purpose clear and students had the opportunity to reflect on their understanding. Stage 1’s lesson was a deconstruction of the lyrics to Solid Rock to understand its message and relationship with National Reconciliation Week as well as the power of songs. Early Stage 1’s lesson focused on understanding who the Wangal and Bediagal peoples' were, and their connection to the land that our school stands on. Stage 3 used this year’s theme to explore past events, reflect on the present and make a pledge for the future. Support classes learned that there are many Aboriginal languages and nations in NSW and ACT alone, and that National Reconciliation Week is a time to say sorry, listen, learn and show respect so that we can work and play together. Key Word Sign was cleverly used to reinforce words of significance for NRW. 

Thank you to Louise, Dora, Pamela and staff, Emily and the P&C, our Deadly Kids, the Student Representative Council, and parents and carers for making this National Reconciliation Week one to remember. 

Support Unit Morning Tea
The incredible Ms Talati hosted a delightful support unit morning tea last Friday. Hearing from families about homework, excursions and camps, therapists and high school has given us a lot to think about and some great ideas. Matthew Williams, Community and Inclusion Liaison Officer from Primary Out of School Hours Care (POSHCare) talked about his new role which is to ensure OOSH is inclusive of all CPS students who need out of hours childcare, including those with a disability. Thanks also to our wonderful office team for providing a sumptuous morning tea. It was lovely to hear our families speak with deep respect and appreciation for our teachers and SLSOs, and the care, education and attention they provide. The feeling is mutual!

At the next morning tea, we will be joined by Dulwich High School support unit staff, parents and students who will share information about the high school experience as well as moving from primary school to high school. 

In the Spotlight
Congratulations to the Senior Drama Ensemble who performed yesterday at In the Spotlight, a drama initiative by The Arts Unit. As always, the performance was well received by the audience and panel. I would also like to acknowledge Ms Sevenoaks who has done a fantastic job preparing the ensemble for their first performance of the year which was also an audition for an evening festival later in the year. 

First Nations Community of Schools
Canterbury is hosting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and school staff from across the Canterbury Network tomorrow afternoon. The purpose of this initiative is to cultivate a strong sense of community, belonging, and cultural understanding among schools, staff, students and families. Our Deadly families are warmly welcome (please check email for details).

School Vegetable Garden Working Bee
Join the Green Thumbs and other families this Saturday from 2-4pm in the vege garden. No experience is necessary. Everyone is welcome. See further details below.

School Tour and Information for Prospective Families
The next tour is scheduled for Thursday 26th June from 9:45-11:15am. Please let friends and neighbours know this is open to all families looking to enrol their K-6 children at our school.

Monday is a Public Holiday
This weekend is a long weekend. Students and staff return on Tuesday 10th June.

Tracy Considine
Principal