National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week

Last week we acknowledged National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week. Students read First Nations texts, learned about the power of an apology and considered ways that we can all contribute towards reconciliation. This year’s National Reconciliation Week theme – Bridging Now to Next – reflects the ongoing connection between past, present and future.

We look forward to the Djalgala cultural incursion in Week 9 to kickstart our NAIDOC celebrations and learning.

Kindergarten in 2026 – enrol now

Kindergarten enrolments for 2026 are now open. If you have neighbours, friends or family members with children starting school next year, please let them know. Our orientation program is planned and we are excited to get to know every student in readiness for a successful start to school.

See our school website for information on how to enrol and please contact us if you have any questions on (02) 9876 4732.

Staff learning and Spirals of Inquiry

Teachers at Eastwood Heights PS are committed to their own learning and best practice. Teams are engaged in Spirals of Inquiry, a professional learning method that is grounded in the needs of students. Staff have explored student data and observations, generating insights into the learning, and identifying areas for improvement in teaching practice. Each team is refining their use of high impact strategies that include effective feedback, goal setting and student self-monitoring.

Silly Scientist incursion

There was lots of excitement as students across K-6 enjoyed the very entertaining science incursion. The ‘Silly Scientist’ covered many different aspects of science along with lots of comedy and singing. Thank you to Mrs Pang for organising this very fun incursion.

Excelling in the creative arts

There has been ample talent, creativity and dedication on show from students in the creative arts this term.  

Over 40 students participated in ‘Operation Art’ organised by Westmead Children’s Hospital. These students spent lunchtimes and some of their own time to create artworks that would be cheerful and uplifting to display in Westmead Children’s Hospital. All students did a fantastic job and we are very proud of them. Only 2 artworks can be chosen from our school to be sent for the display. Well done to Sophia (5/6P) for her individual artwork titled ‘Dreams Bring Joy’ and to Mira, Alindya and Madison (5/6A) for their group piece titled ‘Floating Beyond the Clouds’. These artworks are in the running to be selected for display around the hospital. Thank you to Miss Kelly for coordinating this creative competition.

Over 60 students participated in this year’s Harmony Day Poster Competition. Well done to Lynna from 1CG for her entry that placed runner up in her age category. Excitingly, Lynna has been invited to attend an award ceremony at the NSW Parliament House Theatrette hosted by the Minister for Multiculturalism - the Hon. Stephen Kamper MP. Thank you to Mrs Towns and Mrs Yee for coordinating this opportunity.

The Ryde Schools’ Performing Arts Festival is a showcase of music and drama performances involving students from several schools. We have choral and dance groups auditioning for and participating this year. Well done to William and Daniel (5/6S) who auditioned and have been accepted as part of this year’s drama ensemble.

In other drama news, Mira (5/6A) will be performing with the Sydney North Junior Drama Ensemble at the Lights Up Drama Festival Chatswood later this month. Good luck, Mira!

Finally, well done to all members of our school band that had a full day of music practice and evening performance at their recent band camp. Three of our bands also performed at the Ryde East Music Festival and each left with a well-deserved trophy. More details and photos can be found in the band update below. A huge well done to all participating students and thank you to our fantastic team of conductors and supporting parents.

Celebrating participation and achievement in sport

We had quite the collection of talented athletes that represented our school at Zone Cross Country this week. Well done to Lily-Eve (5/6S), Irena N (5/6S), Rio (5/6D) and Noah S (3G) who qualified for the Sydney North Regional Cross Country Carnival next week. Thank you to Miss King and Miss Simpson for accompanying the students.

Pick up and drop off times – safety over convenience

I am seeking your support in adhering to parking and road rules around our school, particularly on Lincoln Street, to keep everyone safe. Many parents are performing U turns within the school zone and are not using the pedestrian crossing, instead walking between parked vehicles where visibility is poor. This is not safe and sets a poor example for students.

The following no parking rules are applicable to the ‘Kiss and Ride Zone’ on Lincoln Street:

• maximum stop time is 2 minutes
• drivers must remain in or within 3 metres of the vehicle
• vehicles must not be left unattended

We are working with the City of Ryde Council and road traffic rangers to ensure the safety of students during drop-off and pick-up times. Their Parking Safely in School Zones brochure has information on traffic rules and associated penalties. Your support in this matter is very much appreciated.

Attendance matters – arrival on time

Please remember that every minute counts when it comes to learning time at school. It is important that your child arrives on time, ready for the start of the school day. If you are having difficulty getting your child to school on time, please contact your child’s classroom teacher who is here to support.

Reporting to parents - information sharing at P&C on Tuesday 10 June

I will be providing information and answering questions on the changes to academic reports, aligned with the department’s policy and updated advice, at next week’s P&C meeting. I hope that you will be able to attend. Please note, information slides will be shared with all parents after this meeting.

Student achievements outside of school

Congratulations to Noah in 3G who has had a very successful 2024/25 athletics season. He achieved 5^th place in State discus – throwing an impressive 25.57m - and has been awarded age champion for the season. Well done, Noah!

James Lockwood

Relieving Principal