Dear Parents and Carers,

We are in an exciting part of the year where our students are beginning to look ahead, take on new challenges, and experience programs that help them grow both academically and personally. It has been wonderful to see their enthusiasm and positivity as they embrace these opportunities.

Wild Weather and Safety

In recent weeks, we have experienced some particularly wild and unpredictable weather conditions. Strong winds, heavy rain and heatwaves have certainly kept us all on our toes. I would like to remind families to exercise extra caution during drop-off and pick-up times, as these weather patterns can create slippery surfaces, reduced visibility and unexpected delays.

Please continue to encourage your children to take care when travelling to and from school, whether they are walking, biking or catching public transport. Our priority is always the safety and wellbeing of our students and staff, and your partnership in reinforcing safe habits makes a significant difference. I would also like to extend my thanks to our grounds and maintenance man, Mr Tarrant, who has worked diligently to keep pathways clear and ensure our grounds are safe and look amazing!

Congratulations to Our 2026 Student Leadership Team

One of the highlights of the past week has been the announcement of our 2026 Student Leadership Team. I am delighted to congratulate Mason, Caitlin, Dilveer, Alexis, Hunter, Ruby, Grace, Anton, Michael and Lyla, who have been elected by their peers and teachers to represent our student body next year. Leadership is both a privilege and a responsibility, and these students have already demonstrated the integrity, maturity and enthusiasm that these positions require.

I also want to take a moment to acknowledge the exceptional calibre of all the candidates who nominated for these roles. Each student approached the process with confidence and genuine commitment, and the quality of speeches, ideas and personal reflections shared throughout the campaign period was truly inspiring. It is heartening to see so many young people willing to step forward, contribute their voices, and help shape the future of our school. Every student who nominated should feel extremely proud of themselves.

Captains and Vice Captains will be announced on Presentation Day.

Swim School Commences

This week, our annual Swim School program kicked off, and there has been no shortage of excitement among our students. Swim School is always a highlight of the year, providing an invaluable opportunity for students to develop essential water safety skills, build confidence in the pool and participate in a program that supports both physical fitness and personal resilience.

I would like to extend a very big thank you to Ms Philp, whose exceptional organisation and attention to detail have ensured that the program runs smoothly from day one. Coordinating timetables, transport, instructors and equipment is no small task, and we are incredibly grateful for her dedication and hard work. Thank you also to the staff supporting each session and to families for ensuring students come prepared with towels and swimmers each day.

Step-Up Session for 2026 Classes

Another significant milestone this week was our students’ first Step-Up session for 2026. This program allows students to spend time in the classroom they may join next year, meet their potential future teacher and begin getting to know the classmates they will be learning alongside. Transitions are an important part of student wellbeing and success, and Step-Up helps create a smooth, positive start to the new school year.

Staff were incredibly impressed by the way students approached the session. Many students came away feeling excited about the year ahead, and teachers appreciated the chance to begin forming those important relationships that make such a difference from the very first day. We look forward to the next Step-Up session later in the term, where students will continue building their sense of belonging and readiness for 2026.

Have a great weekend!

Warm regards,

Nick Campbell
Relieving Principal

Grafton Public P&C - Note from the President

The Grafton Public School P&C last met on 14 October at the Library on the Primary campus. Meetings are at 5:30pm on the 2nd Tuesday of each month during school terms and anyone is welcome to come along - kids too!

At the meeting we discussed:

- 2026 enrolment - the bumper Kindy enrolment for next year is great news - we're trying to promote and grow the school community which appears to be working along with the expanded catchment boundary

- Finalising plans for our big Christmas Raffle - last fundraiser of the year!

- The P&C funding of Breakfast Club SLSO support 5 days per week has started, helping to give every student the best chance of learning by making sure they start the school day with a full belly

- The completion of the Kiss & Drop Shelter at Infants and plans for additional covered walkway to link it up

- Some of the terrific sporting results achieved by our school teams of late.

What was decided at the meeting:

-To purchase additional learning resources - Sunshine Book packs that have been really popular so far.

If you'd like to get in touch with us or have questions about how the P&C operates/how you can help, you can get hold of me on president@graftonpublicpandc.org or talk to Tayla on secretary@graftonpublicpandc.org.

All the best,

Duncan McKimm