As we move through the term, I want to take a moment to shine a light on something truly special—our incredible staff.

At our school, we are fortunate to have a team of educators and support staff who go above and beyond every single day to create a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment for our students. From the classroom to the playground, from the office to the canteen our staff lead with care, skill and unwavering commitment.

It’s the early mornings, the thoughtful lessons, the extra check-ins, the kind words, and the countless behind-the-scenes efforts that often go unnoticed—but never unappreciated. These are the moments that shape positive experiences for our children and help them grow not only as learners, but as confident and compassionate people.

I know many of you see this too—whether it's a teacher who made a difference for your child, a staff member who offered a kind word at just the right time or the reassuring presence of familiar faces every morning. Our school is the great place it is because of the people in it.

Recently, our school’s instructional leadership was acknowledged by the Education Futures Institute as the best they have seen. This recognition is a powerful affirmation of the dedication, expertise, and collaborative spirit of our entire team—from teachers and support staff to our leadership team.

One standout area of practice is the way we use learning walls in classrooms. These are not just displays—they are powerful tools that help students understand what they are learning, how they can be successful, and what steps to take next. Our learning walls give students ownership over their learning, build confidence, and promote deep understanding. The fact that our work in this space has been recognised at such a high level is something we are truly proud of.

What makes this even more meaningful is that it reflects the heart of our school community: a shared belief in every child’s potential, a commitment to high expectations, and a team of educators who care deeply about making a difference.

Staffing News

We have some exciting—and bittersweet—news to share. Miss Batty has been successfully appointed to a permanent Head of Special Education Services position at Glass House Mountains State School, beginning June 16. While we will deeply miss her here at Pumicestone, we are incredibly proud of everything she has achieved and the lasting difference she has made in the lives of our students, families, and staff. Her dedication, professionalism and genuine care have been felt across our whole school community. We’re lucky to have Mrs Szazs who has returned to her substantive position as Head of Special Education Services, and has been working alongside Miss Batty to ensure a smooth and supportive transition. 

Please join us in congratulating Miss Batty on this wonderful opportunity and in wishing her all the very best in her new role. Glass House Mountains is very lucky to have her!

Save the Date for the P&C Meeting

National Education Summit— 26th May 2025 

This week I had the privilege of representing QASSP at the National Education Summit at Parliament House, Canberra hosted by the Australian primary Principal’s Association (APPA). 

This was a consultancy event aimed at formulating advocacy strategy and focus for our National Association to lobby for improvements in the Primary Education Sector and involved a range of stakeholders both from education and non-education background and government and independent sectors. 

Speakers included former Prime Minister, Hon Julia Gillard AC, Prof Frank Oberklaid AM, Dyonne Anderson—CEO of the ‘Stronger Smarter’ Institute and NOTSIPA President, Stephen Gniel—CEO ACARA, Gavin McCormack—upschool CEO (Google him—INSPIRING!!) AND Hon Jason Clare MP—Federal Minister for Education (pictured with myself, Pat Murphy QASSP President and Lee Gerchow Principal Macgregor State School and fellow QASSP Board Member).  

Throughout the day the speakers were charged with issuing provocations for discussion in the room to collect ideas on what is currently being done in Primary Education and what can be done to improve outcomes for students and families. 

Kind regards,

Angelique