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- From the Principal: Angelique Kropp
- From the Deputy Principal: Dan Carlyon
- From the Deputy Principal: Ashleigh Woods
- From the Deputy Principal: Andrea Shackell
- From the Head of Special Education Services: Morgan Batty
- Pebbles
- P&C News
- Free Webinar
- Uniforms
- Friendly Reminders
- Road Safety
- Rocketeers
- Finance
- Look Out
- School Holiday Workshops
- School Crossing Supervisors
- Respectful Communication
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
This term, our talented Year 5 students have been diving into the exciting world of journalism as part of their English and geography learning. Their focus? Writing compelling news reports on natural disasters!
After exploring the features of effective news writing—such as catchy headlines, factual reporting, and strong opening paragraphs—students researched different types of natural
disasters, including earthquakes, floods, bushfires, and cyclones. They then crafted their own original news articles, imagining they were on the scene as reporters.
Year 6
This term, our Year 6 students have been exploring the fascinating genre of biography writing—learning how to tell the true stories of inspiring individuals from around the world and throughout history.
Students began by reading a range of biographies and analysing how authors structure life stories, focusing on key events, achievements, challenges, and turning points. From scientists and athletes to artists and changemakers, the class researched a wide variety of influential people.
Online Safety
In our increasingly digital world, ensuring the safety of our children online is more important than ever. As children explore, learn, and connect through technology, it’s essential they do so in safe and age-appropriate ways.
At school, we are committed to teaching students how to navigate the online world responsibly. However, your role at home is equally vital in reinforcing these messages and helping children make smart choices online.
Key Online Safety Tips for Families:
- Talk regularly with your child about what they’re doing online. Keep the conversation open and supportive.
- Set clear rules about screen time, appropriate websites, and apps.
- Use parental controls on devices and internet connections.
- Model safe online behaviour by being mindful of your own digital habits.
- Remind your child never to share personal information like their full name, address, school, or passwords.
Helpful Online Resources:
- eSafety Commissioner (Australia): www.esafety.gov.au
A trusted hub for advice, tools, and reporting abuse or inappropriate content. - ThinkUKnow: www.thinkuknow.org.au
Information for parents, carers, and children about staying safe online. - Common Sense Media: www.commonsensemedia.org
Reviews and guidance on age-appropriate apps, games, and media. - Kids Helpline: www.kidshelpline.com.au | 1800 55 1800
A free, confidential support service for young people 24/7.
We encourage all families to take a moment to explore these sites and have regular conversations about online safety. Together, we can empower our children to make good choices and enjoy the benefits of the digital world—safely.
Under 8's Day
National Reconciliation Week
Last week was National Reconciliation Week
National Reconciliation Week is when Australia acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People as the original custodians of our land.
The day before the start of National Reconciliation Week, 26th May, is National Sorry Day, first held in Sydney in 1998 and now commemorated annually to honour the Stolen Generation.
National Reconciliation Week is celebrated by businesses, schools, early learning services, organisations, and individuals right across Australia. There are hundreds of events held at this time each year, including walking tours, picnics and much more.
We created a hand garden to show our support for reconciliation!
What’s on in Prep?
Our Preps are currently looking at life cycles which includes having mealworms in each of our classrooms. Each class has been making observations of the mealworms and their life cycle.
In Prep we are learning to:
Ask us about what topics we are learning about in our rooms!
Ask us about the difference between what is informative and what is imaginative!
I am thrilled to introduce myself as the new Deputy Principal for Years 3 and 4 at Pumicestone State School. It has been an absolute privilege to join such a vibrant and welcoming community and I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to work closely with your child throughout the year.
With a strong passion for learning and student wellbeing, I am committed to creating a positive and inclusive environment where every child feels valued, supported and inspired to reach their full potential. I believe that strong partnerships between home and school are key to student success, and I look forward to working together to support your child’s learning journey.
Please do not hesitate to reach out or say hello.
Warm Regards
Andrea Shackell
Inclusion at Pumicestone
We are proud to share that Pumicestone State School believes every student can access and engage in all aspects of schooling.
Inclusion means understanding that this may look different for each learner, and we embrace a wide range of supports to make this possible. Whether it’s using running tethers with trained staff to assist students who are Deafblind, providing a Frame Runner for physical access, or welcoming a parent or carer to run alongside a child who needs their trusted adult to take a risk — all students deserve access to these events.
Have a look at these amazing students accessing Cross Country and Colour run!
Unplug Childhood with Dr Justin Coulson
Tuesday 24th June, 7:30pm AEST Free Webinar
Camp Australia's upcoming free webinar, “Unplug Childhood,” is hosted by the renowned parenting expert Dr Justin Coulson. In today’s fast-paced, screen-filled world, children are facing challenges we’ve never seen before. Join us as we unpack the impact of digital technology on childhood and explore practical steps parents and carers can take to protect and empower their children. Plus, an interactive Q&A session.
In today's digital age, our children face unprecedented challenges from social media and digital devices. Join Dr Justin Coulson as he explores the urgent need to address these issues head-on. Social media companies have come under scrutiny for their failure to protect children, despite knowing the harm their platforms can cause. Dangerous algorithms push harmful content to vulnerable youth, impacting mental health and well-being. Screens not only disrupt academic performance but also displace crucial real-world experiences essential for healthy development.
While some advocate for legislative measures to restrict social media access for under-16s - a crucial step Dr Coulson fully supports - implementing such laws takes time and faces significant technological and legislative hurdles. Parents cannot afford to wait. The majority of primary school-aged children already have social media accounts and smartphones, often violating existing age restrictions.
In this presentation, Dr Coulson discusses actionable strategies for parents and caregivers to navigate the digital landscape safely and effectively. From setting healthy screen-time limits to fostering open communication about online risks, empowering our children to navigate the digital world responsibly is more critical than ever. Together, we can take proactive steps to safeguard our children's well-being in an increasingly digital world.
Discover a one-stop-shop for your school uniforms, school footwear, stationery, technology, musical instruments, sports equipment and more, at School Locker North Lakes.
Online Uniform Shop
Discover a one-stop-shop for your school uniforms, school footwear, stationery, technology, musical instruments, sports equipment and more, at School Locker North Lakes.
Student Advantage Membership
In addition to 6 days a week in store shopping, your uniforms will also be available online. The new online uniform shop offers a convenient way to purchase school uniforms whenever you need them. You will have the option to enjoy home-delivery or click-and-collect your uniform purchases from the School Locker North Lakes store.
Shop for Uniforms at School Locker
4-6 Burke Crescent North Lakes
Phone 3490 1400
Monday to Friday 8:30am-5:00pm & Saturday 9:00am-3:00pm
Mobile Phones
It is assumed that any child bringing a mobile phone to school needs it for safety when travelling to and from home, but not during the school day.
Therefore:
Phones are to be turned off and submitted to the office on arrival at school where they are checked in via a register- They are to be collected and signed out at the end of the school day
- No student mobile phones are permitted to camp or on excursion as students are in the direct care of Teacher
Student Break Times
Office staff are unable to locate students during break times. Should you need to collect students during breaks, please ensure you have pre-arranged this with the office.
First Break: 10:30am - 11:05am
Second Break: 1:05pm -1:40pm
Thank you for your understanding.
Scooters & Skateboards
We kindly request that you remind your children that scooters and skateboards are not permitted on school property and not an acceptable mode of transport for school. Please ensure that your child is aware of this policy and refrains from bringing scooters or skateboards to school.
Bikes
We kindly remind those students who ride bikes to school, to bring a bike lock each day. This helps ensure the security of their bicycles while on campus. Thank you for your attention to this matter and for supporting a safe school environment.
Car Park Feedback
As our carpark falls under the management of the Moreton Bay Council, we encourage you to reach out to the council with any complaints or suggestions you may have, as they are best equipped to address and resolve such issues effectively.
As a part of our efforts to improve road safety, TMR has developed Journi, an interactive online program designed for children aged 10-12 years.
Journi is a part of TMR's whole-of-life approach to road safety and seeks to instil fundamental safe road use practices and behaviours during the formative years of a child's life. In the 10-12 year age range, children are becoming more independent, and may begin riding their bikes or using public transport. Children within this age group are also starting to use mobiles, or other electronic devices. Journi provides children with practical advice and knowledge to keep themselves safe around the road.
Guided by Roadbot, children complete interactive games and activities that teach the importance of safer road behaviours like wearing helmets, being present and alert around roads and avoiding distractions. The games embed this learning into a fun, interactive experience, and use gamification as a way of communicating critical educational concepts to children. This approach rewards students as they progress through the program, encouraging participation and reinforcing positive behaviours.
As well as learning important safety behaviours and skills, Journi develops kids' digital literacy skills through activities like coding. Journi is aligned with the Health and Physical Education and Digital Technology learning areas of the Australian Curriculum.
Journi is now available for use in the home, as well as in the classroom – to register for Journi, you can sign up at https://journi.tmr.qld.gov.au/ using an email address. More information can be found under the 'Parents' and 'Teachers'' tabs of the home page.
SRS Fees
A friendly reminder that your SRS fees are now overdue. Unless you have a current Centrepay in place, please make your final payment via, BPoint, QParents, or EFTPOS.
If you have concerns or would like to discuss the SRS scheme, please send an email to our Business Manager at bsm@pumicestoness.eq.edu.au
Payment Plans via Centrelink
Did you know we accept Centerpay. Make sure your SRS fees are paid on time SET & FORGET!
Did you know once your fees are paid, your account will go into credit. You can then use this credit to pay for School Camps and Excursions.
- Sign in to your Express Plus Centrelink mobile app.
- Select More to access the full menu.
- Select Deductions.
- Select Centrepay Deductions.
Alternativly complete and return the below Centerpay deduction form to bsm@pumicestoness.eq.edu.au
Payment Plans via PumicestoneSS Payment Plan
Complete the Payment Plan form below and email it to bsm@pumicestoness.eq.edu.au
Please be mindful that we cannot allow credits to accumulate to a large amount. If your account grows into a substantial credit, we will contact you regarding stopping your payments.
Hardship
If you are experiencing financial hardship, please contact the Business Manager to discuss your situation.
Pumicestone State School has implemented the "Look Out" program to reduce congestion at the Cottrill Road Loading Zone.
Our aim is to enhance safety for all students and parents using the car park. Community cooperation is vital for the smooth operation of this initiative, ensuring hassle-free school pickups.
Program Overview
School finishes at 2:30 pm. In the afternoon, staff supervise the loading zone on Cottrill Road. They monitor and prevent unsafe practices such as:
- Children loading into double-parked cars,
- Loading from the driver's side of vehicles,
- Vehicles idling for more than 2 minutes in the zone,
- Queuing that obstructs the school crossing.
Registration and Participation
Parents will receive a registration link via email in the coming days.
Once registered, you'll receive a name tag for your sun visor which will be sent home with students.
Process at the Loading Zone
Upon arrival, staff will call for waiting children. The first three vehicles in line can load and depart before the next set of vehicles.
If your child isn't present when your vehicle reaches the front, please proceed and re-join the end of the queue, or park in the car park.
Only cars with name tag on the passenger side sun visor to use the pick-up zone.
Non-Compliance
Vehicles not adhering to rules or engaged in unsafe practices will be reported to Police Link and/or Moreton Bay Regional Council.
Parent Responsibilities
- Arrive at the loading zone during monitored times 2:30pm to 2:45pm
- Display the name tag on the passenger side sun visor for staff to identify.
- Stay in your vehicle; do not exit.
- Ensure adequate space for children inside the vehicle.
Encouragement for Children
- Arrive promptly at the loading zone as close to 2:30 pm when school finishes.
- Be seated in your house group with your family members and listen for their name to be called.
- Be prepared with school bags and belongings to quickly, yet safely, enter vehicles.
Key Actions for the Look Out Program
- Display your name tag clearly.
- Queue and remain in your vehicle.
- Move forward safely when directed.
- Load your children promptly and depart.
Please support the program as it is designed to assist all famiies to pick up their children promptly and safely.
We are looking for School Crossing Supervisors in your area to help get our kids safely to and from school.
School Crossing Supervisors must be available for work in both morning and afternoon shifts on a rostered basis (in all weather conditions).
In return we offer the following:
- Casual pay-rate starting at $37.10 per hour
- Relief opportunities on your days off
- Long service leave entitlements
Commencement of employment for the successful applicant is dependent on:
- · The favourable outcome of a pre-employment health assessment
- · A Positive Notice Blue Card (you do not need to have a blue card to apply for the position)
If this sounds like something you would be interested in, give us a call on (07) 54521829 to speak with your local Road Safety Officer or email CSB.SEQN.RoadSafetySunshinecoast@tmr.qld.gov.au for more information.
