LONG STREET PRIMARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER

Welcome to the last newsletter for Term 2. It has been an extremely busy term, but a great one. Many students have progressed in their benchmark levels for reading and other areas of the curriculum. Many students have represented the school in sports carnivals where they have been highly successful demonstrating fair play and outstanding sportsmanship. These events showcase our students and provide them with the opportunity to enhance relationships and be a part of a team. Thankyou to our coaches and families for your support in making these events happen.

During the recent winter storm which produced significant rain and extremely high winds, the school had 4 very big gum trees fall to the ground. Upon closer inspection from Facilities Services, the trees were rotten from the inside out. Externally the trees look in good shape. I cannot take the risk in leaving the remaining big gums on site. Through solid advice I have made the decision to knock down the trees and replant with safer specimens that have no potential of falling and/or causing injury to anyone in our community. After seeing the health of the fallen trees I cannot take the risk that the remaining trees are safe around our community. These trees were all planted at the same time when the school was erected. I am currently receiving quotes to fell the trees and re-plant with safer options. I will keep you updated as to the progress of this work health safety project.

I would like to acknowledge the hard working staff of Long Street. They are a wonderful team and demonstrate high levels of commitment and dedication to your children on a daily basis.

Have a wonderful break. Please be safe on the roads. 

Bryan Rotherham

Principal

Building resilience in children

Resilience … it’s a familiar word, isn’t it? But what does it really mean? When we talk about resilience, we’re talking about a child’s ability to cope with ups and downs, and bounce back from the challenges they experience during childhood – for example moving home, changing schools, studying for an exam or dealing with the death of a loved one. Building resilience helps children not only to deal with current difficulties that are a part of everyday life, but also to develop the basic skills and habits that will help them deal with challenges later in life, during adolescence and adulthood. Resilience is important for children’s mental health. Children with greater resilience are better able to manage stress, which is a common response to difficult events. Stress is a risk factor for mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, if the level of stress is severe or ongoing.

So where does resilience come from?  Resilience is shaped partly by the individual characteristics we are born with (our genes, temperament and personality) and partly by the environment we grow up in — our family, community and the broader society. While there are some things we can’t change, such as our biological makeup, there are many things we can change. We can all help children become more resilient and the good news is, you don’t have to do it alone. You can ask other adults such as carers and grandparents to help. Building children’s resilience is everyone’s business, and it’s never too early or too late to get started. We’ve got some simple things that you can do in your own home.

How can I build resilience in my child? The the latest research found that there are five areas that offer the best chance for building resilience in children.

As a parent, carer, or significant adult, you can help to develop essential skills, habits and attitudes for building resilience at home by helping your child to:

• build good relationships with others including adults and peers
• build their independence
• learn to identify, express and manage their emotions
• build their confidence by taking on personal challenges

Becc O’Neil 

Wellbeing Leader