Penguin District School eNewsletter

For all upcoming events please see the Penguin District School Calendar

It is with excitement and absolute pleasure to be able to say that the production is well and truly in play mode! Having had the opportunity to attend this week, with the 5/6s and 3/4E, I can truly say I was amazed…WOWEE what a show it was.

Whilst a highlight, to name one of which there were many, was seeing Liam from Year 6, standing proudly and singing loudly, “Let me entertain you!” and entertain us they certainly did. I do hope that you have had the chance or plan to go and watch our talented students put on a colourful, energetic and entertaining show, before the curtain comes down for the final time on closing night this Saturday…

Whilst all those that have attended will go away with some lasting memories of their mates, relatives, children and/or grandchildren on stage strutting their stuff, the almost hundred adults and children who gave their all on stage, behind stage, beneath the stage in the light room and behind the sound board, will have had an experience they will remember for a lifetime. I can unashamedly say, that whilst I struggle to remember what I did 2 weekends ago, I can still sing word for word a song from a solo performance in Year 9 as part of our UHS musical ‘Smithy’.

Not to mention the volunteers who sold raffle tickets, made items for the canteen, assisted as ushers… for fear of missing people and I’m sure I have, this show would not have been possible without the support of a multitude of staff, students and families.

Seeing our performers from Year 6-11 smiling with glee and performing their hearts out, soaking up the rousing applause from the audience was priceless. The adulation and admiration displayed by the audience at the completion of the show was unbelievable with the deafening clapping and hoots of excitement continuing for minutes, kids hugging their mates, high fiving cast members and sharing words of encouragement as the crew left the stage. There was barely a hand that didn’t go up when Mr Davis asked the audience, “Who’d like to be in the next production in 2 years’ time?”

Our focus value for Term 4, connections is at the heart of what being in a production is all about. The connections formed between students and staff and between students and students from different grades, provides opportunities to build friendships and expand social circles within and across year levels. The opportunity to perform allowed students to explore different emotions, perspectives, and characters, will assist them to feel more comfortable expressing themselves in real life, and required them to work together as part of a team. The courage and growth on display was extraordinary.

I am 100 percent sure that the countless rehearsals, costume fittings, and performances will have all been worth it at the end of the week when I’m sure all cast and crew will look back and reflect on what it has taken to get to where they did, with some no doubt anticipating the opportunity to be in the next musical. Be proud, feel proud – you all well and truly deserve it.

This Thursday and Friday our Secondary and Primary students gave their all in the All School’s Triathlon, at the Bluff in Devonport. Amazingly some of the competitors jumped from the stage to the surf. Some of our kids certainly are highly motivated and passionate in representing their school. The aim of this event is to increase participation in sport, in particular triathlon, with many of our Year 3 students having a crack at the triathlon for the first time whether in a team or as an individual competitor. This too is an amazing opportunity for our students to connect with each other, children from other schools and the broader community. As always is the case, it’s really pleasing to see how encouraging and supportive our students are of one another. Again this event would not be possible without the organisation and time and effort of our dedicated teaching staff. Thanks again to Craig Beattie for assisting with the transportation of bikes to and from the event.

Today our Preps to Year 6 students received evidence of learning (EOL) for either HASS or Science and 2 EOLs from one of their specialist teachers. Please remember that this is evidence of one piece of work and reflects what they were able to achieve on this particular sample of work. Whilst contributing to their end of year assessment, may not be a true reflection of their final assessment. As always, if you have any questions in relation to what your child has brought home please don’t hesitate to contact your class teacher through seesaw or via the office on 64 34 2222.

Yours in partnership

Matthew Perry

We are thrilled to announce that Mr Matthew Perry has been appointed as the new Principal of Cooee Primary School, starting in the 2025 school year, this is subject to the two weeks appeal process. This is an exciting opportunity and a significant next step in his leadership journey. Matthew’s dedication to education, his passion for fostering growth and development in students and prioritising relationships make him an excellent fit for this position. We wish Mr Perry all the best as he embarks on this new chapter, confident that he will lead with vision, integrity, and enthusiasm. Congratulations, Mr Perry!

On Friday, it was the Primary Students’ turn to take on their triathlon. It was a very warm day, with lots of sunscreen being applied regularly.

All students demonstrated our school values and ensured that they participated in good spirits.

A big thanks to Mr De Ruyter, Mr Baldock, Mr Perry, Mr Rattray, Mrs Enright and Craig Beattie for their assistance during the day, with another 68 students participating this year - a school record! Additionally, a huge thanks to Tim Smith for organising another amazing event!

Bring on the 2025 Schools Triathlon!

On Thursday our secondary triathlon team competed in Devonport. They had a great day of participation, representing the school well. One of our notable results included Taleah, Avery and Mitchell in our grade 9 team winning the mixed team event for their age group (grade 9-12) and placing 3rd overall. We also had some fantastic individual results. It was great to see everyone get out and have a go, challenging themselves and performing to the best of their abilities. Well done to all students who participated.