This time of year gives us all a chance to reflect on the achievements in learning for us as a school, and for the students in it. I have started reading student reports that teachers have prepared and I have been impressed with the high level of student achievements and development within their grades, and as young people in our school community. I have also been so impressed with our Grade 6 students this year and the way they have conducted themselves as student leaders in our community. I feel strongly that every Grade 6 student is set up for success, not only in High School, but for life with their strong grounding at Burnie Primary School, as collaborative, creative and innovative learners.

The learning at the pool this week has been a pleasure to witness. All of our Kinder to Grade 2 students will have an opportunity over the two week program to develop their water awareness, that will enable them to find joy in being in and around the water when we finally get to see some summer weather! We are grateful for the amazing indoor facility offered at the Burnie Aquatic Centre and the high quality teachers we have there in the pool.  

On the morning of Thursday 19th^th we are looking to provide students with a different way of celebrating their learning by having a ‘Big Day In’ (9:30 – 12:30pm). This will involve significant planning and adult involvement. It is also a fantastic opportunity for the P&F to contribute to our students and school community on a different level than is traditionally the case, by providing fun activities that students can choose from throughout the day. Slipstream Circus will be our featured artist this year. They will be providing circus workshops and performances throughout the morning. Loxley Archers will again be hosting archery for students, and back by popular demand, ‘Snakeman’ will be running shows throughout the day educating us on dealing with all aspects of snakes here in Tasmania. These along with the multitude of other events, including Zorb Balls, will cater for all students' interests and promises to be a great Big Day In! If you would like to help out on the morning, Thursday 19th December, please contact us here at school.

We continue our 2020 planning. Classes have been formed, teachers have almost been secured and finalised and we move into 2020 with an air of optimism as we become a ‘Collaborative, Creative and Innovative Learning Community’. The final year of our Burnie Primary School Improvement Plan 2017 – 2020 will see us focus on whole school approaches to Inquiry, generating students' critical and creative thinking, and providing them with the tools to develop as collaborative, creative and innovative learners in our community.

Andrew Starick