Celebrating Diversity and Inclusivity: Harmony Day & World Down Syndrome Day

Today, our school came alive with vibrant energy as we celebrated two special occasions that highlight what makes our community truly unique. At Aspley, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture of inclusivity, respect and belonging, where every student feels valued, regardless of their background or abilities.

Harmony Day is a time to reflect on and celebrate the diversity that enriches our school. As a multicultural school, we recognise that our differences—whether in culture, language, or tradition—are not just something to tolerate but to embrace. Today, we took a moment to understand that our strength lies in the rich mix of cultures that make up our school. From those whose families have lived here for generations to those with deep connections to the First Nations peoples of this land, we are all part of something much bigger than ourselves.

In addition to celebrating Harmony Day, we also integrated World Down Syndrome Day into our festivities. This was an important reminder that being unique is something to be celebrated. As a school, we believe in recognising and honouring each individual’s uniqueness. By integrating these two celebrations, we reinforced the idea that everyone,  deserves to be celebrated and included.

Our assembly was a beautiful display of this inclusivity, with students and staff sporting a wide range of colourful costumes and mismatched socks—symbols of individuality, acceptance and fun. 

Today’s celebrations were more than just a fun event. By opening up the conversation about diversity, inclusivity and the importance of acknowledging what makes us unique, we continue to create a positive school culture that respects and supports all.

School Car Park Upgrade – Final Stages Ahead

As we approach the final weeks of Term 1, we are excited to announce that the handover of our upgraded school car park is near. Over the past months, you may have noticed the ongoing construction, we appreciate your patience as weather conditions and supply delays have affected the timeline. We are especially grateful to our school community for their support in using the alternate drop-off and pick-up zones during this time.

I would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our staff for their extra efforts in ensuring the smooth flow of students in and out of school, keeping everyone safe and on time.

Next week the contractors will begin laying the asphalt, with minimal disruption to the school site. However, there may be increased traffic around the area on Monday, 24  March, to Wednesday 26 March the contractors have assured us that it is safe to be near the site during this process.

To ensure the safety and comfort of our students, we’ve adjusted the before school and break routines for Year 1 to Year 6 on Monday 24 March to Wednesday 26 March.

• Before school, students in Year 1 to Year 6 will wait in the hall from 8:15 am, supervised by staff. 

• Alternate arrangements for first and second breaks will also be made to ensure minimal exposure to the work site for our Year 3 to Year 6 students during eating and play time.

Following these works, weather permitting, the final line markings for the car park are expected to be completed in Week 10. The tentative plan is to have the car park fully operational early Term 2.

We thank you again for your continued support and patience as we look forward to enjoying this upgraded space.

P&C and Annual General Meeting Recap: Exciting Plans and Gratitude for Our Community

On Tuesday, 18 March we held our P&C and Annual General Meeting. Like all our P&C meetings, it was filled with passionate discussions and an eagerness to continue improving our school. This meeting highlighted some exciting future plans, including fundraising opportunities for the coming year, upgrades to our school facilities and key improvements to enhance the experience for our students.

Among the topics discussed were the installation of new water chillers and the possible upgrade of our basketball and netball hoops.

We also reflected on how our school can continue offering the best possible services to all members of our community. I am pleased to share the newly elected and continuing members of our P&C Executive team. A heartfelt thank you to the following individuals for their commitment to our school:

• President: Rebecca Mann
• Vice President – Business Operations: Cassandra Kerr
• Vice President – Community Engagement: Position currently vacant
• Secretary: Kirsten O’Connor
• Treasurer: Hayley Wretham

These community members have generously stepped forward to support our school, our students and our staff. I look forward to working alongside them and supporting them in the months ahead.

I would also like to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to all the volunteers who contribute to our P&C and school events. Whether you assist at barbecues, music events, fundraising initiatives, or in the tuckshop or uniform shop, your dedication and hard work make a tremendous difference to our school community. Thank you for all that you do.

A special note of thanks goes to our outgoing President, Alice Long. Alice has made a lasting impact on our school during her time as P&C President. Her energy, enthusiasm and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark. We are incredibly grateful for everything she has accomplished and for her contributions to our school.

As we have a vacant position on our executive team, I encourage members of our community to consider stepping into the role of Vice President – Community. This is an opportunity to become an integral part of our team and help shape the future of our school. Each member of the executive team has my full support in guiding them through this process and I am confident that you will find a warm and welcoming team to work with.

Thank you once again to everyone who contributes to making our school a wonderful place to learn and grow. Together, we continue to make a positive impact on our community.