LPS eNews
4 December, 2025
Principal's Message
Thank you to everyone who assisted on or before the day, led by superstar parents Jennie S (organiser) and Jonathan T, barbeque master. Of course, they were so well-supported by many parent volunteers, who also stood with us on the oval or at the barbeque, through the changing weather. That is commitment!
In the lead up to the event, we have drawn lots of prizes at assemblies. The 494 students who created a profile online by last Friday were eligible for winning these surprise gifts. A list of winners is included on a separate page in this eNews. By Monday, we had over 500 profiles.
Most importantly, we thank those families and friends who contributed donations to the Colour Fun Run via the online registration portal. We received several cash donations as well. Our Priority Project improvements could not happen without this support, helping make LPS such a great place for our students.
Our Year 5 students have presented some eloquent speeches as part of our Year 5 Student Leadership program. With so many students vying for a small number of leadership positions, the announcements usually trigger a mix of humble joy and understandable disappointment. The process is a wonderful learning opportunity for all Year 5 students and is firmly based on our Student Leadership Policy. Year 5 students who are recipients of 2026 captaincy roles will receive their badges at assembly on Friday 12 December.
It's almost time for the Year 6 Graduation. Once again, we thank those Year 6 students who have worked on the traditional Year 6 gift to the school.
With the expertise of artist and parent Santosh Mahale, and the guidance of April Farlow, they spent both class and lunchtimes painting the mural on the brick wall of the Art building, overlooking the new garden and Senior School building. Our Year 6 teachers also supervised students in dedicated mural painting sessions. We look forward to officially 'unveiling' the artwork, which is receiving those last final touches.
Kim
Our Vision: Learn • Thrive • Contribute
From the School Council President
Hi everyone,
As we quickly reach the end of another year, School Council wanted to share a final update and reflect on what has been another full and positive 2025 for our school community.
There’s been a lot to be proud of. Our children continued to perform strongly in NAPLAN, which speaks to the consistent effort of our kids and the guidance of our teachers and leadership team. It’s something the whole school can feel good about.
With the major capital works project completed early this year, our attention shifted to refreshing and improving our outdoor spaces. The resurfacing of the basketball and netball courts has been a big lift to the yard, the soccer pitch has been brought back to life and the sensory garden upgrade has created a calmer space for students who need it. In addition, our historic Performing Arts Centre received a fresh coat of paint, and thanks to the generous support of Dulux Acratex the roof was also refurbished and painted. These upgrades have made a real difference to the way our students use and enjoy the school each day.
Our community groups continued to play a huge role in school life. Parents Group delivered another strong year of events and fundraisers. These events bring families together, along with making significant fundraising contributions to school projects. Thank you to everyone involved.
The Fathering Project also continued to build momentum, with several well-supported events held throughout the year. If you haven’t been to one yet, it’s worth making it part of your 2026.
To all our teachers, office staff, support staff and leadership team: thank you for another year of hard work and genuine care. Staffing shortages continued to be a reality for you this year, and the way everyone kept classrooms settled, supported students and maintained learning is something we’re very grateful for.
To our Year 6 students: thank you for your leadership and contribution to our school. As you head off to secondary school, we hope you feel proud of yourselves and excited for what comes next. You’ll always be part of our school community.
Looking ahead to 2026, we remain focused on steady progress, supporting student learning and wellbeing, and continuing to strengthen the sense of community that makes our school such a positive place to be.
Whatever your plans are over the summer, we hope you enjoy a safe and relaxing break. Thank you for being part of our school community and we look forward to seeing you in the new year.
Chat soon,
Matt
Our Vision: Learn • Thrive • Contribute
What's Happening?
To support a smooth transition for our students in 2026 our Prep-Year 5 School Transition program began this week. These sessions provide students with the opportunity to visit and experience different classrooms and spend time with a mix of children from each cohort.
Tuesday 16 December will be our final transition session, where students will meet with their 2026 teacher and class. Parents will also have the opportunity to meet and say a quick hello to their child's 2026 teacher after school between 3.30-3.45pm in the hall.
Year 6 students will attend the State Secondary Government Schools Orientation Day next Tuesday 9 December, with the exception of those students who have already attended transition days for Non-government Secondary Schools.
Finally, teachers will share important information about students with 2026 teachers during scheduled 'file handover' staff meetings. The latest ILPs/IEPs written by 2025 teachers, that will carry through to early 2026, will also be discussed. Every measure is taken to support a smooth transition for our students and bridge their learning into next year.
A new school year is an exciting time for students and families, particularly for those starting Prep or moving to secondary school.
The Department of Education has published a webpage for all families with resources and information to help prepare for the new school year. Please refer to the new year of learning webpage for further information about:
- Getting ready for primary school
- Getting ready for secondary school
- What to expect at school
- Help with school costs and fees
- Health wellbeing and inclusion
Congratulations to our Year 5 students who presented their leadership speeches last week. We look forward to presenting our 2026 Year 6 student leaders with their badges at assembly on 12 December commencing at 2.45pm.
Kindness is contagious!
This December is a wonderful time to reflect on the fabulous year we have all had. It is also a great time to think about the little things that make us so grateful, and the ways that we can spread happiness through the smallest gestures.
- Compliment someone.
- Tell your family something you appreciate about them.
- Smile at someone in the playground.
- Take a walk with your family. No screens, just talk.
- Help cook dinner.
- Write a thank you note to a friend, family member, or teacher.
- Hold the door open for someone else.
- Tell your family something you are grateful for.
- Pick up some rubbish.
- Help someone carry something.
- Recommend a good book to someone.
- Draw three things that you are lucky to have in your life.
Reminder:
All student health support plans and individual anaphylaxis management plans, as well as any medical forms and action plans, are now due. If you haven’t returned them, please do so by
Monday 8th December.
For families of students with anaphylaxis: An epi-pen reminder has been distributed. Please make sure that your new epi-pen comes to school on the first day of school in January.
Why not try this Seasonal Green Salad? With options that suit every season and taste, it's a fresh and healthy accompaniment to a delicious summer barbecue.
Next week will be the final week for Snack Club this year. We hope you have enjoyed some healthy snacks and delicious recipes.
Snack Club will return in 2026!
Our Vision: Learn • Thrive • Contribute
Prep
This term in inquiry, Prep students have been investigating the properties of materials. We explored different types of materials, found objects made from those materials, and discussed why each material was the best choice for its purpose. We then asked questions such as, “Is it strong?”, “Is it flexible?” and “Is it waterproof?”
We looked at the story ‘The Billy Goats Gruff’ and created the characters and a bridge using a variety of materials. The billy goats were made from plasticine, the troll’s clothing from felt fabric, and the bridges were constructed using cardboard and other craft materials, such as wooden sticks and recycled boxes.
In Art lessons with Ms Farlow, we investigated which material would be the best for building a strong bridge. We tried paper first, but it was too weak and bent easily. Then we tried clay and wood, but that was too crumbly. After that we experimented with cardboard, which was much stronger, and it was sturdy enough for the goats to cross.
We have been retelling the story of ‘The Three Billy Goats Gruff’ with our models. The photos below show Prep R retelling the stories using the characters and objects that we made.
Students enjoyed testing their designs and discovering how different materials behave. We can’t wait to share these with you at our next Inquiry Expo on Wednesday 10th December at 2:45pm. See you then!
Curiosity • Respect • Integrity • Resilience
Contribute: Parents Group News
LPS Colour Fun Run - Thank You!
We hope your child had the BEST DAY EVER at the School Fun Run on Monday! It was sunny, then raining, then hailing, but it didn’t dampen the spirits of the kids who all had big smiles on their faces as they ran around and got covered in colour!
Thank you to everyone who made the day special! A big shout out to Jennie S. for coordinating the fun run and Jonathan T. for being the BBQ king! And to the many many parent volunteers who helped on the day.
We fundraised a massive $17,082.15 in total, which will be put towards completing the lovely new Sensory Garden located outside the office in the playground at LPS. Thanks to all who contributed towards this great amount!
Student prizes will be delivered before the end of the school year.
Mango Fundraiser - Delivery Friday 5th December
Mango trays can be collected from the canteen this Friday afternoon 5th December, likely between 2pm-4pm. Any changes to this time will be communicated via email.
Volunteer Spotlight!
Laburnum Parents Group would like to extend a massive thank you to Nadia H for her many years of dedicated service to Parents Group, including 3 years as Treasurer. Nadia is always a steady, friendly and reliable part of Parents Group who is willing to put her hand up for any task.
We would also like to recognise her wonderful effort in organising this year’s mango fundraiser. This fundraiser is always a favourite among families and Nadia’s hard work has ensured everything has been well organised from the opening of orders through to preparing for distribution. We’re very grateful for the time and care she has put into it. Nadia also played a key role in making this year’s Trivia Night such a great success.
Your time and energy mean so much to the LPS Parents Group and general community. Thank you, Nadia!
LPS School Umbrellas for Sale!
With so much rain lately, what better time than now to purchase your LPS school umbrella! Just $25 – available from the office.
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
Colour Fun Run - Assembly Prize Winners
Drawn 14 November:
| Nila | G | Prep R | WINNER of $500 Credit |
| Aiden | L | Prep H | PRIZE NO 1 |
| Jack | M | 4S | PRIZE NO 2 |
| Tilly | H | 4B | PRIZE NO 3 |
| Neomi | Z | 1S | PRIZE NO 4 |
| Su En | C | 2G | PRIZE NO 5 |
| Nikklin | G | Prep P | PRIZE NO 6 |
| Rithika | G | 1C | PRIZE NO 7 |
| Flynn | J | Prep P | PRIZE NO 8 |
| Wilson | P | 2A | PRIZE NO 9 |
| Miraan | T | 1C | PRIZE NO 10 |
Drawn 21 November:
| Zach | C | 1S | WINNER of $500 Credit |
| Oran | P | 3G | PRIZE NO 11 |
| Isaac | S | 2A | PRIZE NO 12 |
| Sofiia | Z | 4S | PRIZE NO 13 |
| Eilidh | C | 4B | PRIZE NO 14 |
| Jasper | L | 4B | PRIZE NO 15 |
| Dominic | K | 1S | PRIZE NO 16 |
| Caitlyn | T | 6A | PRIZE NO 17 |
| Nolan | K | 3G | PRIZE NO 18 |
| Mason | Z | 2V | PRIZE NO 19 |
| Riaan | P | 3B | PRIZE NO 20 |
| Virat | R | 3R | PRIZE NO 21 |
| Kayden | X | 2K | PRIZE NO 22 |
| Connor | T | 2V | PRIZE NO 23 |
| Sami | R | 3G | PRIZE NO 24 |
Drawn 28 November:
| Hussain | U | 3R | 2 Tickets to Shrek the Musical |
| Merrigan | J | 5R | PRIZE NO 25 |
| Amaya | G | PR | PRIZE NO 26 |
| Sienna | T | 6L | PRIZE NO 27 |
| Ryan | L | 1F | PRIZE NO 28 |
| Ethan | H | 6A | PRIZE NO 29 |
| Gargi | B | 5K | PRIZE NO 30 |
| Alex | B | 3B | PRIZE NO 31 |
| Jack | Y | 6A | PRIZE NO 32 |
| Isabella | W | 5R | PRIZE NO 33 |
| Mia | D | 6L | PRIZE NO 34 |
| Charlies | T | 2A | PRIZE NO 35 |
| Yun | W | 2K | PRIZE NO 36 |
| Hamdan | S | 4S | PRIZE NO 37 |
| Michelle | D | 5K | PRIZE NO 38 |
Curiosity • Respect • Integrity • Resilience
Senior School - Years 5 & 6
It has been an exciting and busy term in Year 5, particularly with the introduction of school leadership. In the leadership program the students learnt about what makes a good leader and the skills they will need to be successful in any leadership role. Students also analysed what makes a good speech and ways to engage the audience. They worked hard to write and practise their speeches in the lead up to presenting to students in Years 4 and 5. Even students who did not apply for a specific role wrote a speech about how they would be a good role model in Year 6.
In other news, some of our Year 5 students were lucky enough to participate in Bioeyes, a RISE Incursion in partnership with the Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute. They explored whether Zebra fish are suitable for researching human genes.
As a cohort, students have been performing experiments to explore scientific questions as part of our Term 4 inquiry. They have investigated reversible and irreversible changes, states of matter, electricity, circuits, light and light pollution. Students are now designing their own experiments to perform and present at Expo.
We can’t wait to share our results with you!
Year 6
Year 6 End-of-Year Celebrations
The Year 6 students have had an exciting and memorable end to their primary school journey, filled with creativity, collaboration and plenty of laughter. Here’s a peek into what we’ve been up to!
Memoirs of Primary School
To mark the end of our time in primary school, we have been creating personalised Graduation Posters that celebrate our years of growth, friendship and learning. These posters include snapshots from across our primary years, short reflections and favourite memories that capture who we are today.
The level of effort and creativity has been fantastic! We have enjoyed digging through old photos, choosing meaningful moments and designing posters that feel truly “us.” These will be proudly displayed during our upcoming graduation celebrations.
Graduation Dance Practice with STOMP
Energy levels have been high as our Year 6 students dive into their graduation dance rehearsals with the talented team from STOMP. Each session has us learning rhythm, coordination and group choreography, all while building confidence on stage.
It has been wonderful watching our students encourage each other, step outside their comfort zones, and take pride in their performance. Their hard work is certainly going to shine at graduation!
STEP UP WEEK - A Taste of Secondary School
We’ve been celebrating our final term of primary school while also preparing for the next big adventure - high school! To help us feel confident and excited for this transition, we held our very own Step Up Week, where Year 6 temporarily became a bustling secondary school corridor.
We followed a real high school-style timetable, moving from room to room, keeping track of equipment and racing (safely!) to make it to class on time. Each classroom was transformed into a specialised learning space and our teachers stepped into their new “secondary school teacher” roles.
Here’s a snapshot of the amazing subjects and experiences from the week:
Textiles with Mr Appleby
We rolled up our sleeves and got hands-on with tapestry techniques. We explored how woven artwork has been used across cultures and time and we even began our own stitched designs. It turns out tapestry isn’t just an old-fashioned decoration - it’s a detailed craft that requires patience, creativity and focus!
Geography with Miss Loucas
Miss Loucas transformed her classroom into a mini geography lab. We investigated maps, landforms and how people interact with different environments. We zoomed around the world without leaving our seats - discovering that geography is much more than just “countries and capitals.”
Medieval History with Miss Bonollo
We stepped back in time with Miss Bonollo to explore the world of castles, knights and medieval society. We investigated what life was really like during the Middle Ages and examined how historical evidence helps us understand the past. No time machines were required - just curiosity and imagination!
Graphic Design with Mrs Purcell
Mrs Purcell guided us through the world of hand-drawn graphic design, showing how lines, shapes and lettering can be used to communicate ideas visually. We sketched creative layouts, experimented with different styles and discovered how powerful simple, well-designed visuals can be – with no computers needed!
Step-Up Week gave us a chance to experience what secondary school is like with new subjects, new routines and new challenges.
Most importantly, it left our Year 6 students feeling ready, confident and excited for the journey ahead!
Curiosity • Respect • Integrity • Resilience
A message from Spartan Uniforms
Please see below the details of Spartan's Christmas/Back to School delivery schedule.
Please note there will be no uniform delivery in the last week of Term 4. This is a busy week for both schools and couriers and if the delivery is not made prior to school finishing, there is a risk that orders are lost at the courier depot over the holidays.
- Final Uniform Delivery 2025 – Week 10 2025 - 8th - 12th December 2025
- First Uniform Delivery 2026 – Week 1 2026 - 28th– 30th January 2026
- Please note the ‘Delivery to School’ option will be suspended after the final 2025 delivery and will reopen on Wednesday 21st January, ready for ‘Back to School’ orders.
- Orders for delivery to home will continue to be processed and sent via Australia Post (except during our Christmas Closure period from 23rd December to 6th January)
- All stores will close at 5.00 pm on Monday 22nd December and reopen at 9.00 am Wednesday 7th January. Please check the website for each store’s hours.
- All stores will be open on Australia Day Public Holiday 26th January 2026
- For information and assistance please email onlineorders@spartanss.com.au
Thank you everyone!
Our Vision: Learn • Thrive • Contribute
Contribute: Community News
Click on these links below for Community News or information:
 TeamKids Out of School Hours Care Please register your child here - it's free to register and you'll always have that option for childcare, even in unexpected circumstances. More information is on our website here.  We’re bursting with excitement to let you know that bookings for our Summer Holiday Program are now officially OPEN for Laburnum Primary!See what’s happening at our school → https://downloads.teamkids.com.au/laburnum-primary.pdf |
 Please click Chess Club image for T4 registration |
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