LPS eNews
13 March, 2025
Principal's Message
Did you recognise our cover photo of Doncaster East Primary School (taken in 1908) as our Performing Arts Centre? Thanks so much to Jenny Simmons for sourcing this. Part of the history of this building is reproduced below, but the longer version can be read here.
After first being moved into our schoolgrounds twenty-six years ago, this heritage building was remodelled as a significant Laburnum project. Now parent contributions to our Building Fund are helping to give it a necessary makeover. We're also grateful to one of our past parents, Georgina R, for liaising with Dulux Australia to provide the paint for the exterior timber and roof.
The school was also the Post Office. [The photo shows] Mr Willie Craig, Head Teacher and Postmaster (1895-1909) and Miss Finna Johnston and all the pupils assembled.
State School No. 2096 opened as the Deep Creek School on 26th October 1878. It was built on the south west corner of Andersons Creek and Reynolds Roads. It was a simple building of weatherboard construction. The schoolroom was 24 ft by 16 ft with an attached three room residence.
The population of this location did not grow as expected, and by 1885 the enrolment had dropped from 28 to 16. The Head Teacher, Mr. A. Kelso, made application for the school to be relocated. An acre block on the corner of German Lane (now George Street) and Blackburn Road was purchased from Mr. Fred Pickering for the price of £40 ($80).
The new schoolroom was lengthened to 36 ft and an additional room was added to the residence, together with front and rear veranda. The rebuilt school opened in February 1887 with an enrolment of 43 children.
Later that year a Post Office opened in the school with the Head Teacher as Postmaster. The children took home the letters and papers after school.
The school closed in 1998 and the old building was relocated to Laburnum Primary School for use as a music centre. The original bell is now re-erected in the grounds of Schramm’s Cottage.
While celebrating the opening of the new Senior School, we're also happy to be the caretakers of this vintage building. Thanks to everyone whose contributions to this project have connected new and old, as the PAC enters its 147th year as a part of Victorian education history.
What beautiful weather we enjoyed for our Years 3 - 6 House Cross Country last week. Together with our House Captains, Mr Marikar organised and led this fun event with the assistance of specialists, classroom teachers, aides, principals and some very welcome parent helpers. Thank you to everyone for contributing to such a successful event. Twenty students from each age group will now progress to the District Cross Country.
Congratulations to Matt Hall and Grace Kelly, who have sucessfully nominated for our 2025 School Council. We still have two parent vacancies. Please contact our office this week if you are interested in nominating.
Apply now to enrol your child in Foundation (Prep) for 2026
Local schools are continuing to use the Department of Education's online enrolment system this year. The VicStudents portal allows families to complete all enrolment for Prep 2026 and upload necessary documents. All Victorian government schools follow the Department's timeline, with enrolment offers for 2026 Preps emailed to families after 22 April.
If you have a child starting primary school next year, please see the new Prep 2026 Enroment page on our website. We can promise you better class sizes and teacher-student ratios than 1908!
Finally, congratulations to two of our staff on new additions to their families: Damon Burns is celebrating the birth of his daughter and Nat Kiriati has welcomed twin sons.
Kim
Our Vision: Learn • Thrive • Contribute
School Council Update
Hi all,
We were thrilled to host our 2025 School Captains (Ruby, Elmie, Jesse and Freddy) at our most recent School Council meeting. Their enthusiasm and leadership are already having a great impact, and we absolutely love hearing updates from our captains at each of our meetings. We look forward to hearing from them throughout this year.
One of the most exciting developments already this year is the opening of our new senior school building. After much anticipation, the building is now fully operational, providing an incredible new space for our teachers and children. It’s been wonderful to see students and teachers quickly making full use of this modern facility, and we can’t wait for everyone to experience the benefits it will bring to our school community for many years ahead.
We’re also excited about the restoration work happening to our Performing Arts Centre, one of the most iconic and historic buildings at our school. This important project includes restoring the exterior and applying a new coat of paint, enhancing the building’s appearance while preserving its rich heritage. It’s wonderful to see this iconic space being rejuvenated and we look forward to seeing it continue to inspire our children for generations. (The photo above shows these works in progress).
As we look ahead to 2025, the School Council is currently discussing priority projects that will support the continued growth and improvement of our school. There are many exciting opportunities on the horizon and we remain committed to ensuring that we focus on initiatives that will make a lasting positive impact on our children's school experience.
Our Parents Group held their AGM the other evening and has a packed schedule of fundraising events planned for this year. These events play a crucial role in supporting our school’s key projects, like the junior school playground upgrade in 2024. We strongly encourage everyone to get involved and contribute in any way they can – whether by volunteering or participating in the events themselves.
Thank you all for your continued support and dedication to our school. We look forward to a fantastic year ahead.
Chat soon,
Matt
Our Vision: Learn • Thrive • Contribute
More!!! Next Generation Learning @ LPS
This dream construction finished ahead of schedule and under budget, a rare combination when building schools! All school building projects include a contingency for 'unexpected costs'. Fortunately, we had few of these, along with tight budget management and a fantastic team of architects and builders. As a result, the school is now placed to access the project's unspent funds.
These monies must be spent for the purpose they were allocated - our Capital Works project.
In hopeful anticipation that there could be any funds remaining, we included a wishlist of variations for the project before building began. These were costed but not approved at that time. Yesterday, we began receiving approvals for some of these variations and expect more over the coming weeks. How exciting!
After discussion at School Council, and total agreement, our architects are finalising details that we hope to share soon with the wider community.
Highest on our wishlist was removal of the four classrooms in the worst condition in the school, while they can still be accessed. The Victorian School Building Authority yesterday approved demolition of Rooms 32, 33, 34 and 35. They are shown on the plan below in red.
Those classes (Year 4A, Year 4B, Intervention and Spanish) will be relocated very soon. Parents of students in Years 4A and 4B will be emailed information about their new classrooms, Rooms 30 and 31 (adjacent to the Year 3/4 playground).
This means the northern side of the school will soon have only permanent buildings; what a massive change from the three rows of portable classrooms the school had in 2023!
Classroom demolition will open up the area on the east of the Senior School through to the Blacks Walk boundary. The former 'quiet northern playground' will be reinstated and now extended right to the middle asphalt area, providing a different kind of play experience (and so much more space) for our students.
Because this is still being funded within the Capital Works project, we will be using the same builders and architects to complete these works. As the builder is demolishing those classrooms, we expect that work to begin this term.
The demolition of these four rooms is in addition to demolition of the four temporary 'oval classrooms' by the VSBA, which is scheduled for the upcoming holidays.
We'll look forward to sharing more in our next eNews...stay tuned!
Our Vision: Learn • Thrive • Contribute
What's Happening?
Our 2025 NAPLAN testing commenced this week, with our Years 3 & 5 students completing the first test in Writing. Further testing in Reading, Language Conventions and Numeracy will be completed during the NAPLAN test window up until Monday 24 March.
Our annual School Photos are scheduled for
Friday 28 March.
A PRE-NAMED and barcoded envelope will be sent home next week with your child.
Also included will be the family/sibling forms if you wish to take up this option.
Please complete your ordering online and return envelopes to school on Friday 28 March (photo day).
The envelopes must be given directly to the photographer by each student on the day.
We look forward to welcoming our fathers/father figures to the first Fathering Project event for 2025 next Friday 21 March. For more information see The Fathering Project page in this edition of eNews.
Our Vision: Learn • Thrive • Contribute
Junior School - Years 1 & 2
In Maths, Year 1 students have been practising how to communicate their ideas in ways that others can understand. Although figuring out the answer is great, sharing the method you use to reach it is even better! Drawing, writing, and labelling are effective ways to show the process that happens in your brain when problem-solving.
Year 1 has also been learning about the structure of our Reading lessons. We always start with a mini-lesson to learn or practise a skill. Next, most students return to their desks to do their independent reading. We read guided reading books to warm up our brains before reading our dot books. It is important to remember to fill in our reading log as we go.
One of our favourite lessons this week was when students pretended to be brave firefighters. This experience encouraged them to make connections between new vocabulary and its meaning, e.g. rounded, blasted, flopped, and rescued. It was enormous fun!
A Masterpiece of Self-Expression!
This month in Year 2, we’ve embarked on an exciting writing journey, focusing on how we can describe ourselves in both creative and meaningful ways. Our students have been learning not only to craft sentences, but also to deeply reflect on their own identity.
To start the project, the students brainstormed words that describe their physical appearance and personality traits. They thought carefully about adjectives like "tall," "friendly," "curious," or "energetic"; words that truly capture who they are.
Students then turned these adjectives into phrases and sentences. This exercise helped the students practise their writing skills and also their understanding of sentence structure. They learned how to build meaningful sentences.
To build on this, students explored sentences that describe their likes,
favourite things and hobbies. Each student was encouraged to describe what makes them excited and unique.
In the upcoming weeks, we will be combining all of the students’ ideas and drafts into a single written piece that reflects who they are - both inside and out. We’re incredibly excited to see how each student’s writing masterpiece comes together, and we’re proud of the creativity and self-reflection they’ve already shown.
Curiosity • Respect • Integrity • Resilience
Learn: Inquiry this term
At LPS, our Prep - Year 6 Inquiry program is built around eight key concepts. Over a two year cycle, students visit each of the concepts of Community, Sustainability, Social Justice, Creativity, Identity, Perspective, Discovery and Connections.
Our year levels investigate the same concept simultaneously each term, exploring it across the curriculum and making connections between the concept and their everyday life. We create a shared understanding of each concept, develop common language across the school and at home. We encourage students to ‘inquire’ about their world through explicit teaching around developing and asking meaningful, deep thinking questions.
Across the school, this term’s inquiry units are built around the concept of identity. Identity explores the idea of self, who we are, how we see ourselves, how we interact and how we change over time.
In Prep, children are learning about identity using puppets and roleplays to respond to different situations they face in their community. They will improve their ability to ask for help, listen to one another and resolve conflict. Students will explore their identity through their emotions and connections to others.
In Years 1 and 2, students are learning about staying safe and taking responsible risks, healthy food, expressing their emotions clearly, and dealing with conflict. They will consider how they have changed in their life and reflect on the things that they will be able to do in the future.
In Years 3 and 4, students are exploring the emotions they might feel and the choices they may face when they encounter challenging situations. They will learn how social, emotional, and physical changes, core values, and stereotypes can influence their identity. Students will practise saying no, making safe choices, and managing strong emotions through role-play and games.
In Years 5 and 6, students are investigating their identity and the characteristics that make them who they are. They will consider the influence that the media, role models, and pressure from others have on their identity. Students will learn about the changes associated with puberty and investigate different ways to stay healthy in mind and body.
Our Vision: Learn • Thrive • Contribute
Middle School - Years 3 & 4
Did you know that standing and working on vertical non-permanent surfaces promotes risk-taking and building thinking skills? Students couldn’t believe their ears when they were told they could write on the windows! There was a buzz of excitement as students worked together to solve Maths puzzles and create interesting sentences.
In Writing, we have been learning about the importance of purpose and audience to make our ideas clear and engaging. We have used conjunctions to create detailed sentences and learnt how to use paragraphs.
Students participated in a cyber safety incursion where they investigated their own digital wellbeing and how to find balance when using devices. They participated in their first house cross country and had their first session on how to be a buddy for next year’s Preps. What a busy couple of weeks in Year 3!
Year 4
Monday 24th February saw the Year 4 students participating in Evolve Online Safety. The students learnt about their own habits with technology, the digital expectations for their age and how to be a part of a safe online community. The students discussed who they could go to for support and how to handle difficult situations online.
On Thursday 6th March, the students participated in the Laburnum Primary School Cross Country. This was their second time competing in Cross Country and thanks to Mr. Marikar and the Year 6 house captains. The students demonstrated resilience as they ran, persevering to complete the 2km race.
Curiosity • Respect • Integrity • Resilience
The Fathering Project
Please see below information about this terms LPS Fathering Project 'Origami' event.
As this is a catered event, sign up must be completed by Tuesday 18 March.
The Fathering Project at LPS provides opportunities for fathers and father figures to come together and engage in various activities with their children at school throughout the year.
We invite all LPS fathers and father figures to join our Dads Group using the QR code below. Members of our portal will also gain access to fathering tips and can choose to receive a Weekly Tips Email and Fathering Channel content.
It's never too late to join The Fathering Project! If you would like to join, use the QR code below.
Our Vision: Learn • Thrive • Contribute
Contribute: Parents Group News
2025 LPS Parents Group Office Bearers
The LPS Parents Group's annual AGM was held on 4th March. Congratulations to the following parents who were elected:
- President: Leo W
- Vice President: Jennie S
- Secretary: Caroline H
- Treasurer: Jo B
Big thank you to Vicky W and Nadia H who have retired from their roles as Secretary and Treasurer respectively. After several years and countless hours of work between them - the LPS community is very grateful for your efforts.
Trivia Night at LPS – Saturday 29 March 2025 – Tickets Still Available
Tickets are still available for the 2025 LPS trivia night!
On Saturday March 29 (7pm until ~10pm), the Laburnum Primary gymnasium will host a trivia fundraiser for the school. In addition to a (not-particularly-serious) trivia competition, there will be games, raffles, auctions and some sweets with tea and coffee provided (BYO drinks and food for yourself and/or to share with your table)
We know that returning Laburnum families will be excited about this event and we are putting out a special call-out to new Laburnum parents to come along. We will ensure everyone joins a team, so if you don't yet know other parents, this is the perfect opportunity.
TICKETS are $25pp ($250 for a table of 10) and must be purchased online prior to the event.
Book your tickets here: https://www.trybooking.com/CYOUU
Friends of Laburnum (ex-parents, grandparents, Blackburn locals, your friends etc) are very welcome to buy tickets and come along too.
All funds will support upgrades to the school grounds/landscaping.
Lunch Orders in 2025 – Helpers Needed!
We are looking for parent volunteers to help pack and distribute the lunch orders. If you can spare about 1 hour on a Wednesday or a Friday at 11.15am, please sign up here: https://signup.com/go/CNbQDJF
Please note you must have a valid working with children’s check (WWCC) to volunteer at school.
Entertainment App Membership
Your Membership to The Entertainment App will save you up to 50% on dining, shopping and activities – all while supporting our school!
For more information or to purchase your membership, please click the link here:
https://subscribe.entertainment.com.au/fundraiser/185r982
LABURNUM PRIMARY SCHOOL SECOND-HAND UNIFORM SHOP
OPEN First Friday of the Month: Term Time Only: 3.00 pm - 4.00 pm Thank you, |
ALL DONATIONS VERY WELCOME Please ensure donations are washed, clean and in good condition. Only school branded clothing (i.e. no Target, Kmart, Big W, etc. brands). nds). |
Curiosity • Respect • Integrity • Resilience
Specialists: P.E
BDPSSA District Swimming Carnival
On Monday 24 February, 22 talented students from Laburnum Primary School participated in the BDPSSA (Blackburn District Primary Schools Sports Association) District Swimming Carnival at the Monash Aquatic Centre. Our swimmers did exceptionally well, with more than half of the team progressing to the next level of competition. A special highlight this year was the participation of many Year 3 students competing for the first time at such a large event. Their resilience and determination were truly inspiring!
Every student showcased positive attitudes and sportsmanship, making it a memorable day for everyone involved. A big thank you to all the parents who volunteered and assisted in various roles throughout the day. Your support helped make the event run smoothly and successfully!
We also want to congratulate the students who finished in the top 2 of their events, earning a place to compete at the Whitehorse Division Swimming Carnival, which was held on Monday 3 March. We wish Xier L and Lawrence C the best of luck as they progress to the Regional Swimming Finals!
District Swimmers
Division Swimmers
LPS House Cross Country Carnival
Laburnum Primary School held its annual House Cross Country Carnival on Thursday 6 March and it was a fantastic event! The weather was perfect as our Year 3 students, many of whom were competing in their first House Cross Country, took to the course. It was incredibly inspiring to see every student finish the race, demonstrating remarkable resilience and perseverance.
The House points tally showed what a close and exciting competition it was. Congratulations to McCubbin for taking out first place and well done to all students for embodying our school values of resilience throughout the challenging course.
Final House Points
1. McCubbin – 244 points
2. Roberts – 234 points
3. Conder – 198 points
4. Streeton – 188 points
We want to extend a huge thank you to all the parents and teachers who helped out on the day. Your support was invaluable and contributed greatly to the success of the carnival.
Congratulations to the following students who have qualified to represent Laburnum Primary School at the BDPSSA District Cross Country Carnival on Monday 5 May at Ruffey Lake Park:
Year 6 Update
A reminder that the Year 6 Winter Sports Round Robin Tournament will be held in Term 2 on Friday 16 May. Our teams will be competing in T-ball, Soccer, Netball, and AFL against St Thomas, Roberts McCubbin and Surrey Hills at various locations throughout the day.
What's Happening in PE
Prep - 2
This term, our Prep to Year 2 students have been focusing on Fundamental Movement Skills (FMS), including learning the technique for a one-handed bounce, as well as developing basic tennis skills. The students have been applying these skills through a variety of modified games and activities designed for maximum participation and engagement.
Years 3 - 6
This term, the Years 3 – 6 students have been focusing on Net and Wall Games as part of our Game Sense unit, with a particular emphasis on tennis and racquet skills.
Level Sport
All students from Prep – Year 6 have been participating in their weekly 1-hour Level Sport sessions with our specialist teachers this year.
For our Prep – Year 2 students, they have been taking part in the Perceptual Motor Program (PMP). PMP is a movement-based program designed to enhance younger students' eye-hand and eye-foot coordination, fitness, balance, locomotion and eye-tracking skills.
During PMP lessons, students engage in a variety of activities using equipment, such as balls, bats, balance beams, gymnastic mats, and medicine balls, all set up in an obstacle course style. These activities are aimed at developing fundamental motor skills and helping students build a better understanding of their bodies and their environment.
Our Year 6 students will soon begin practising skills for Netball, T-ball, Soccer, and AFL in preparation for the Winter Sports Round Robin. In addition, Year 4 and Year 5 students will be learning the skills for these sports as part of a pathway to help prepare them for next year’s Level Sport curriculum.
Curiosity • Respect • Integrity • Resilience
Contribute: Community News
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