June 2024 Newsletter
Principal's Report
Sports Day
The sun was shining, the cheers were echoing, and the spirit of sportsmanship was palpable at our recent Prep to Year 6 Athletics Carnival. It was a day filled with incredible displays of athleticism, teamwork, and camaraderie, making it an event to remember for our school community.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the carnival was witnessing our students demonstrating exemplary sportsmanship. From the youngest participants to the seasoned competitors, there was a prevailing sense of encouragement and support. Whether it was cheering on a fellow classmate during a race or offering words of encouragement after a challenging event, our students embodied the true spirit of sportsmanship throughout the day.
A significant part of the success of our Athletics Carnival can be attributed to the wonderful parent attendance. The sidelines were bustling with proud parents, guardians, and family members, who came out in full force to support our young athletes. Their presence added an extra layer of excitement and encouragement, creating a vibrant atmosphere that uplifted our competitors.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Warner, Mr. Pitcairn and all the staff involved in the organisation of the day. Their dedication, meticulous planning and tireless efforts ensured that the carnival ran smoothly and was enjoyed by all. Without their hard work and commitment, an event of this magnitude would not have been possible.
Furthermore, we would like to express our appreciation to the members of the Parents and Citizens (P&C) Association for their generous support. Their initiative to provide a Pizza Day for families added an extra element of fun and enjoyment to the carnival, creating lasting memories for our school community.
Finally, a big congratulations to our age champions and to the Mitchell House for being the overall winner of the day.
Aged Champions
Boys Girls
2012 Cohan Imogen
2013 Bentley Mia
2014 Aiden and Harry Addison L
2015 Aksel Aysha
2016 Ethan Cora
As we reflect on the success of the Prep to Year 6 Athletics Carnival, let us continue to celebrate the values of sportsmanship, teamwork, and community spirit that were on full display. It is through events like these that we come together as a school community to celebrate the achievements of our students and foster a culture of inclusivity and support.
Student Dress Code
Now that Winter has arrived, a friendly reminder regarding our school uniform policy:
School Uniform
- Ipswich West State School polo shirt
- Plain royal blue shorts, skorts or skirt
- Plain royal blue bucket or broad-brimmed hat
- Black sports or crew socks
- Black enclosed shoes (joggers or school shoes only – no gym boots)
- Royal blue, navy or gold hair accessories are encouraged
In colder weather students can also wear:
- Plain royal blue jumper/jacket (no hood preferred)
- Plain royal blue track pants
- Plain gold or royal blue undershirt, eg skivvy, or plain white singlet
- Black tights under shorts, skorts or skirts
Please remember to name all items, so that we can return all lost items.
General Presentation
What is permitted
- Medical bracelet/necklace
- Religious necklace
- One stud or sleeper in each ear
- A wristwatch
- Hair neat, tidy, own natural colour and tied up if at or below shoulder height
What is not permitted
- Multiple earrings
- Earrings other than studs or sleepers
- Rings
- Bracelets, anklets, or fashion necklaces, including rubber wrist bands
- Unsecured medical/religious jewellery during physical activities/sport
- Coloured nail polish and long artificial nails
- Make-up (other than medically required)
- Distracting items/styles eg flashing/bright items, tracks, mohawks
Blast from the past
It was so lovely to have Mr Peter Case and Mrs Jill Case come and visit with us on Tuesday. Peter was the Principal of Ipswich West State School from 1989 until 2007 – 18 amazing years!!! Mr Case was my first Principal, employing me as a Year 1 teacher back in 2001 here at Ipswich West SS. Mrs Case also worked at the school as a classroom teacher in the upper years for four years. Mr and Mrs Case were amazed at the changes made over the years, stating that the office has moved to four different locations around the school. They also commented on how engaged the students were in classrooms and the lovely feel of the school. Another fun fact, Mrs Ashleigh Jolley was a student in my Year 4 class while Mr Case was the Principal.
Farewell
As we approach the end of Term 2, please note that classes will conclude on 21 June, 2024. Term 3 will commence on Monday, 8 July, 2024. As I have already shared in an email my news that I have been offered a meritorious opportunity as a Principal at another school and will be leaving Ipswich West State School. As per my email to families, we welcome Mrs Kimberly Nicholls to the Acting Principal of Ipswich West State School. It has been an incredible journey being part of this amazing school community, and I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to have served as your Principal. Wishing you all a safe and enjoyable holiday with your children.
- Sharyn Brown
Sports Day
Head of Department (Curriculum)
As we approach the end of this term, we want to take a moment to reflect on the past ten weeks. This term has been filled with remarkable achievements, from academic successes seen in our Report Cards, sports victories had with Cross Country and Sport’s Day and community events such as Under 8’s Day and Grandparents Day. Our students have shown exceptional dedication, creativity, and resilience, and we are incredibly proud of their accomplishments. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our dedicated teachers, supportive staff, and wonderful parents for their unwavering support and commitment to our school community. As we look forward to a well-deserved break, we encourage everyone to relax, recharge, and enjoy this time with family and friends. Here's to a fantastic term gone by and an even more exciting one ahead!
Report Cards
Report Cards were emailed home on Wednesday 19 June. If you did not receive your child’s report, please contact me via email ksull80@eq.edu.au
- Kaylee Sullivan
Student Engagement Teacher
Term 2 comes to a close
As we are at the end of another eventful term, I want to extend our gratitude to you for your support and dedication to your child's education. Your partnership has been invaluable in creating a thriving learning environment, and we are truly grateful for your continued involvement.
Throughout the term, we've witnessed amazing engagement from our students, who have shown enthusiasm and eagerness to learn each day. Additionally, we want to acknowledge the importance of consistent attendance. Your commitment to ensuring your child is at school every day has not gone unnoticed. Regular attendance is fundamental to academic success, and your efforts in prioritising this aspect of your child's education are appreciated.
PJ and Muffin Day
We would like to thank all the parents for their muffin donations for PJ and Muffin Day. The students really enjoyed them and loved spending the day in their PJs. The student council will decide next term what we will put the money towards. It has been wonderful working with this group of students, they are so enthusiastic and have some wonderful ideas on how they can support our school.
NAIDOC Day
We will be celebrating NAIDOC Day on Thursday 11 July from 9.00am to 11.00am. Exciting events have been organised for our students from:
- Deadly Dancers coming from Leichhardt State School
- Dancers coming from Bremer High School
- Students coming from Ipswich High School and teaching student dances
- Leichhardt Community Centre doing an art activity with students
I hope you all have a lovely break and look forward to seeing you all again next term.
- Kellie Hanrahan
Japanese
Another eleven facts that you (maybe) did not know about Japan
- The Japanese city of Fukuoka has the world's first subway system to have been hit by a typhoon.
- In Japan, tipping is considered rude and is not customary in restaurants or other service industries.
- The Japanese archipelago stretches over 3,000 kilometers from north to south.
- The world's oldest company still in operation, Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan, has been operating since 705 AD and is located in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
- Japan has the second-largest music market in the world, after the United States.
- There's a Japanese island called Ōkunoshima, commonly known as "Rabbit Island," where hundreds of friendly rabbits roam freely.
- Japan has more than 3,000 McDonalds restaurants, the second-highest number of McDonalds outlets in the world after the United States.
- Japan has more than 200 volcanoes, 108 of which are considered active.
- The world's shortest escalator, located in Kawasaki, Japan, has only five steps.
- Japan has more than 6,000 islands inhabited by humans.
- Japan has one of the lowest rates of obesity in the world, partially due to its traditional diet and emphasis on portion control.
PS. For a chance to win a prize be the first to tell Miss Collins how many steps the world’s shortest escalator in Japan has.
- Tamasine Collins
2024 Junior Landcare Grants Program
We’re thrilled to announce that we have received a 2024 Woolworths Junior Landcare Grant for our project, “Urban Farming”.
Ipswich West State School is one of 1,041 primary schools and early learning centres across Australia to receive a Woolworths Junior Landcare Grant to help grow our next generation of environmental champions.
The children (especially those involved in the Eco Club) and teachers are looking forward to getting their hands dirty and learning from this project – we’ll keep you updated!
Click on the Woolworths Junior Landcare Grant map to read more about our project and others*.
-Louise Edwards
P & C
Uniform Shop
Uniform Shop opening hours are Fridays 8.30am to 9.00am or by appointment only.
Fundraising
Term 3 we will be having a Doughnut fundraiser.
Thank You
I would like to say a huge thank you to everybody that supported us with our Pizza Day fundraiser. We made a profit of $265.29. A big thank you to all our wonderful volunteers with all your support.
- Ipswich West P&C
Student Wellbeing Worker
Project Say it With a Smile
On Thursday 20 June, we welcomed three dentistry students, Xian, Kaamini and Jennifer to our school to deliver interactive educational sessions to our students. The aim of these sessions was to improve the oral health outcome of children and equip them with habits they can carry throughout their lives.
The sessions concentrated on 3 key areas:
1. Oral health skills, nutrition and common oral health problems. The sessions content and activities were devised in consultation with an AHPRA registered dental practitioner using evidence based.
Orange Sky – Free Mobile Laundry
Orange Sky is a free mobile laundry and shower service for people at risk of homelessness or struggling with finding a place to do their laundry. All machines are self-dosing (detergent) and the locations are partnered with service providers such as food vans or drop-in centres.
Each Wednesday at Queens Park between 4.30pm – 6.30pm. Just look for the orange van.
Ipswich City Council School Holiday Program
Packed full of amazing programs to keep everyone entertained over the holidays.
ActiveKidsHolidayProgram-JuneJuly_A5_7.pdf (ipswich.qld.gov.au)
- Carlotta Graham
Inspiration
At Ipswich West, we have a remarkable Year 6 student. This student has featured in the Deals on Wheels magazine (issue 505). He has saved diligently and also worked with his father to achieve his dream goal! Congratulations Leon, your achievement and your story is inspirational. Hope your story inspires others.
Community
