100 Days of Prep
There was a noticeable increase in the number of canes, grey hairs and hunched backs as the students entered the grounds this morning. The celebration of the 100 Days of Prep is one of the highlights for the year. This morning at assembly, our Preps paraded across the stage for the rest of the school, complete with wigs, glasses, braces and hats. After recess, they made quite the raucous as they were entertained by Micky Trickster, magician extraordinaire. The look of wonder and delight in the faces of the Preps was delightful.
Our Preps, and their teachers and families, should be proud of how they thrived in their first 100 days of schooling. This week, I took a session with Prep B and was so impressed by their maturity, attitude and sense of curiosity.
Security
Recently I have had contact from the neighbours of the school who wanted to speak about activities that seem to be taking place on school grounds outside of school hours. Specifically, unwanted visitors late on weekend nights causing disruption and noise. If you witness any anti social or illegal activity on school grounds, please contact police via 000 in the moment. Please also advise us via the office or an email through ashburton.ps@education.vic.gov.au
2026 departures and 2027 arrivals
We are getting to the time where families begin to inform us that their child will be finishing with us at the end of the year to begin next year in a new school. There are many reasons for these moves and we completely understand how decisions come to be made. We do ask if you could confirm arrangements as soon as practical as it assists us with forward planning for 2027.
At the other end of the spectrum, the portal to enroll a Prep student for 2027 officially closes next Friday, July 31st. If you or someone you know has a future Prep student for next year, make sure they have applied via the Department of Education's portal.
AusAlert test Monday 27th July at 2pm
We’ve been advised that a national test of AusAlert will happen across Australia on Monday 27 July at 2 pm. AusAlert is a new, national emergency warning system. It sends warning messages to compatible mobile devices during emergencies, to keep people informed so they can act quickly. The Australian Government plans to launch AusAlert in October 2026.
On Monday 27 July at 2 pm, all compatible mobile devices will receive a Critical Alert. Compatible mobile devices include phones, tablets, smart watches, safety watches and some vehicle devices. These will vibrate and make a loud, siren-like warning sound for about 10 seconds. This will happen even if they are on silent or do not disturb. The message will clearly state that it is a test. No action is required from the test.
To minimise disruption, student phones and smart devices should be switched off and for phones stored in the office as per usual. Students who use their mobile phone as part of a documented exception can continue to do so. If appropriate, they can turn their phone off during the test.
You may also wish to let your child know that if they see or hear the alert, school staff will support them. You can learn more at AusAlert: children and teens. Information is also available in other languages.
For more information, please refer to the Staying safe with AusAlert page.
Hats
In news which will thrill everyone, August 1st will mark the return of wearing hats during recess, lunch or any extended time outside. In line with our Sun Protection policy, hats need to be worn between August and April. Next week will be the last hat free week of the year.
