Dear Families and Community Members, 
 
As we move into Week 4 of our final term, I am filled with pride as I reflect on the wonderful experiences our students have had so far this term. It has been an engaging and enriching few weeks, and I want to share some highlights and upcoming events with you. 
 
We recently enjoyed a delightful puppet  show  provided by Terrapin Puppets that captured the imaginations of our students. It was a fantastic blend of storytelling and creativity, sparking joy and laughter throughout the school. Events like these play a crucial role in fostering a love for the arts and encouraging our students to express themselves. Additionally, our Year 3 and 4 students have had an exciting 'sea & country' excursion that provided many hands-on learning opportunities. Such experiences not only enhance their understanding of the curriculum but also help them build social skills and confidence outside the classroom. A big thank you to our dedicated staff and parent volunteers who made this excursion possible! 
 
Looking Ahead
We are eagerly anticipating our special guest visitor in Week 6. It’s not often that we have an Olympic gold medalist come to Burnie Primary School. Mollie O'Callaghan is set to inspire and engage our students, and I encourage all families to talk to their children about what they hope to learn from this experience. It is a wonderful opportunity for our students to gain insights from outside our school community. 
 
Professional Learning Day
Recently, our staff participated in a professional learning day focused on the department's approach to teaching phonics. This essential skill is foundational to literacy development, and I am excited about the strategies our teachers will implement to support our students' reading journeys.  
 
In addition, we reviewed our student wellbeing and engagement data. We are committed to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for all our students. The insights gained from this data will help us tailor our programs to meet the diverse needs of our learners. We believe that a strong focus on wellbeing goes hand in hand with academic success. 
 
Community Engagement
As always, we value your involvement and feedback. Your partnership is crucial in helping us create the best possible learning environment for our children. If you have any thoughts or suggestions, please do not hesitate to reach out. 
 
Thank you for your continued support as we navigate through this final term. Together, we can ensure our students finish the year strong and ready for the exciting challenges ahead. 

Student Assistance Scheme (STAS)
STAS provides assistance to eligible families by waiving levies for students. It applies to students enrolled in a school from kindergarten through to year 12.

STAS is not a direct payment, but means you won’t have to pay the levy charge.

Are you eligible for STAS?
If you have a current concession card as listed below, you can apply for dependent students for assistance under the STAS:

• Services Australia – Centrelink Health Care Card
• Services Australia – Centrelink Low Income Health Care Card
• Services Australia – Pensioner Concession Card
• Department of Veteran Affairs – Pensioner Concession Card

Note: Parents/guardians must have a concession card. STAS does not apply to a student’s concession card.

To apply for student assistance for the 2025 school year please visit:  Student Assistance Scheme (STAS) 

Applications close 1st September 2025

In partnership,  

Susan  
 

Today we share with you an updated calendar of our major 2024 events.

• Trying new things.
• Admitting mistakes.
• Asking for help.
• Apologising when necessary.
• Working through challenges.
• Encouraging acts of courage helps create a positive and supportive school environment where everyone feels safe and valued.
• Facing your fears and doing what is right.
• It's being uncomfortable and finding your own way through that by doing hard things and making hard decisions. 

Congratulations to all students who received a Courage token.