As we move through the term, I want to take a moment to reflect on two important values we encourage every day at Penguin District School responsibility and connection.

Responsibility isn’t just about doing the right thing, it is about owning our actions, showing respect for others, and contributing positively to our school community. Whether it’s arriving on time, helping a classmate, or staying focused during learning, these small choices build strong character.

Equally important is finding something you enjoy doing, especially with friends. Shared interests help us feel connected, supported, and happy. Whether it’s art, music, sport or simply spending time together, these moments strengthen friendships and make school a place where everyone belongs.

Let’s keep encouraging our students to take responsibility and to find joy in the things they love, especially when they can share those experiences with others.

2026 Planning

Even though there's still lots of learning to happen this year, we're already planning for 2026. We've locked in the class structures for next year. (Please note: this doesn't include which students or staff will be in each class — that information will be shared before the end of the year.)  Please note this is subject to change if enrolment numbers change.

2 x Kindergarten classes

2 x Prep classes

2 x Year 1 classes

2 x year 2 classes

3 x Year 3 classes

2 x Year 4 classes

3 x Year 5 classes

3 x Year 6 classes

3 x Year 7 classes

3 x Year 8 classes

3 x Year 9 classes

3 x Year 10 classes

1 x Year 11/12 class

If your situation has changed for 2026, please let the office know. This will help us make sure class placements are accurate.

This week, our staff have started planning class groups for 2026. As part of this, we’re looking at student learning friend requests to help create positive learning environments.

Your child’s current teacher, along with their teaching team and school leaders, will work together to form classes. We consider things like gender balance, learning needs, friendships, and how students interact with each other. Our aim is to build fair and supportive class groups that help all students learn and thrive.

While we can’t take personal requests, if there’s something important you think your child’s future teacher should know, please send it in writing to adrian.beard@decyp.tas.gov.au (Primary) or Jade.jughes@decyp.tas.gov.au  (Secondary) by Friday, November 7.

Shout outs
Well done to all students auditioning for our 2026 school production! The energy and courage is fantastic, we’re proud of everyone for giving it a go.

Katie was awarded her C badge after months of training, completing a Rules of Netball exam and a practical assessment. Her contribution to our school netball rosters includes umpiring, coaching and playing 

Congratulations to Katie, Chelsea, Harper, Alycia, Eva, Gabby, Estella, Mila, Clementine, Maggie, Romaya, Layla and Mia who participated in the final two-day Statewide Netball Development Carnival in Hobart over the weekend. The commitment that these students have made for twelve months to develop their individual skills and collaborative teamwork is commendable. 

Well done to Kirra on her recent success swimming and surf lifesaving in Queensland.

• 2^nd U12 500m swim of Queensland Endurance Championship
• 1^st Nipper Bash of the 2025 Lexus Maroochydore Bluff to Bar
• 6^th U12 Female Ironperson of the 2025 Shaw and Partners Coolangatta Gold Youth Challenge

A simple thank you means the world!
We know families like to show appreciation to our staff, especially at the end of the year. While we truly value your kindness, we follow the Department’s Gifts, Benefits and Hospitality Policy, which encourages a simple “thank you” as the most meaningful gesture.

If you’d like to express your thanks, a card, letter, or email is always appreciated and aligns with our policy. Small, one-off token gifts (e.g. homemade items, modest treats) may be accepted in limited circumstances, but staff may choose to politely decline if they feel uncomfortable or if the gift doesn’t meet policy guidelines.

Thank you for your ongoing support and understanding.

Yours in partnership

Angela McAuliffe

Principal