It was fantastic to see over 20 families attend our free anxiety session last week run by “Calm Kidz”. The session provided parents with many strategies to support students at home and school. Staff members also attended the session to support consistency at school and home. The session linked really well with our school's current work on the “Zones of Regulation”.

Last week I was very excited to attend the Children’s University Graduation and present AFPS students with their certificates of achievement. It was amazing to see students in their gowns and hats and participate in the procession through the University grounds. These students have participated in learning opportunities outside of school hours supported by family members. A big thank you to Mrs Riewoldt for her ongoing support of this program.

Students are currently undertaking final year assessments. This includes PAT – Progressive Achievement Tests (Reading and Numeracy for Year 1-6 students), PIP’s – Performance Indicators in Primary Schools (testing for Prep students) and final KDCs - Kindergarten Development checks. This data will support teachers to make informed decisions linked with end of year report writing and assessments.

As we draw closer to summer we move into swimming carnivals and swimming lessons. I was able to attend the Inter School Swimming Carnival recently and witness some outstanding efforts from students and it was a pleasure to witness the encouraging support from all students and the “never give up” attitude. Next week also sees Prep – Year 2 students participate in their Swimming and Water Safety Program at Hobart Aquatic Centre, I would like to acknowledge that AFPS fully funds this program and is not a requirement from the DoE but a program we really value as a school.

Finally a big congratulations to a group of 5/6 boys who participated in the recent state final for the cricket T20 Blast. Their performance was outstanding, finishing a close second and just missing out on a trip to Melbourne to play on the MCG, hopefully they can go one better in 2020!