The West #9 2024
- Principal's Preface
- One Big Voice
- Book Week
- TA11 Assembly
- Faction Carnival
- Family Open Night
- West Balcatta Netball Club
- Values at West Balcatta Primary School
- School Photo Days are Coming!
- Young Engineers
- Keyed Up in Term 4
- Tennis at West Balcatta
- Minister's Running Challenge
- FREE Better Health Program @ Bounce!
Principal's Preface
Those of you who have managed to attend any of our recent community events will agree that it has been a busy and enjoyable end to the term. As always, the Athletics Carnival was a wonderful event, despite the threat of inclement weather. Spectator and competitor spirits could not be dampened, even when a powerful gust of wind attempted to send one of our new gazebos on a short flight. The latter only served to inspire team work as helpful parents and students worked together to secure it with additional pegs. Highlights of the day were the student’s enthusiasm and determination when competing, and the sportsmanship on display. We all know that winning is great, but even better when done with grace. Our students did this and I am sure they will continue to do so when they compete against other schools at the forthcoming Interschool Carnival. Of course, we all know that behind every successful event is effort and hard work. I would like to thank Mr Dwyer who applied his considerable organisational skills and passion for sport to ensure the day ran smoothly. Much gratitude also goes to parents who helped set things up, kept us well fed by manning the canteen, cake stall and sausage sizzle, and, crucially, stayed back at the end to clear everything up. A special thank you to the P&C for buying our new upgraded gazebos. They kept our students protected and sun safe all day.
I would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who attended our Open Night last week. It was great to see you being led around school by your children. The pride in their work was clear as they explained each work sample and learning experience. Many of you commented on the quality of the work and how wonderful the rooms looked. With this in mind, I wish to thank our staff who worked incredibly hard to ensure work was displayed beautifully. The evening was very special and there was a real positive vibe around the place. I think this was largely due to our students, who were great tour guides. Thank you - your enthusiasm made the evening a lovely experience.
As you read this, I am on leave, but will be back at West Balcatta for the start of Term 4. Lee Tanner, Kim Chrimes and Sharon Pearson will be making sure everything continues to run smoothly and they look forward to seeing you at Colour Run on the last day of term.
Enjoy the school holidays when they arrive. We’ll see you all back at school on Tuesday 8th October
Caroline Booth
One Big Voice
RAC Arena was the place to be on the night of Thursday 22nd August at the One Big Voice Concert. Witnessing 4000 students from more than 85 schools singing together as, (dare I say it), One Big Voice, is a visual and sound experience to behold. To be a part of this amazing creation of music, movement and enjoyment is something that I hope each and every child involved will remember for years to come and younger siblings in the audience aspire to be a part of.
The comments I have received from families who were in the audience reaffirms just how incredible the performance was. Parents were filled with pride, amazement, tears, spine tingles and goose-bumps throughout the whole night. It was truly an incredible and amazing performance.
I am so proud of each and every student in our choir who not only performed sensationally, but also displayed fantastic behaviour, attitude and enthusiasm that was unwavering throughout the entire night. They were exemplary and received a number of positive comments from surrounding schools and parents. The 5 months of hard work, dedication, additional rehearsals and lost lunch times were extremely evident.
A huge shout out and congratulations needs to be given to year 4 students Caitlyn and Annabelle for their excellent vocal group performance in ‘Storming’ and year 5 students Alannah and Gillian for their clear and well-spoken compere role before ‘Do The Right Thing’. I know I am not the only one who is exceptionally proud of them all!
I would also like to thank Mrs Grosse, Miss Fucile and Mrs Rawlins for all their assistance and for the unimaginable amount of trips to the toilets throughout the event. Without their assistance, the success of the night would not have been possible.
If you are interested in ordering this years concert video or photo’s, click on the links below:
VIDEO ORDERS - For the purchase of a USB / download.
https://onebigvoice.com.au/product/2024-one-big-voice-concert-video-download-or-usb/
PHOTOS - For the purchase of concert photos.
https://www.onebigvoice.photos/f857340099
I can’t wait for more students and families to experience the magic of One Big Voice in the future and I'm looking forward to doing it all again next year.
Just remember: “If you can walk you can dance, if you can talk you can sing.” ~ Zimbabwean proverb
Jane Sibosado – Music Specialist
Book Week
On Friday the 23rd August, our school transformed into a world of literary magic as students arrived dressed as their favourite book characters for our annual Book Week Day. From Harry Potter to the Gruffalo, the creativity on display was inspiring, as students showcased their love for reading through their imaginative costumes.
The day kicked off with a lively costume parade, where everyone had a chance to show off their literary alter egos on stage while students and staff cheered each other on.
After the parade, we turned our attention to the writing competitions that had been running in the lead-up to Book Week. The winners were announced, and it was clear that our school is full of budding authors with a love for storytelling.
The celebrations didn't stop there! The school then split into multi-age groups, allowing students from different year levels to collaborate and bond over a range of engaging literacy activities. It was a fantastic opportunity for students to connect, learn from one another and deepen their love for books and storytelling.
Book Week Day was not only a fun-filled event but also a great reminder of the importance of reading and writing in our lives. Thank you to all the students, staff, and families who made the day such a wonderful success! We can't wait to see what characters and stories next year’s Book Week will bring.
TA11 Assembly
On the 29th of August, we presented our fantastic assembly about constructed and natural features around Australia.
First, we stopped in the Northern Territory where we saw the biggest rock in the world, Uluru. This is one of the biggest natural features in Australia.
Next, we explored the MCG in Victoria. This constructed feature can hold up to 100 000 people!
Then, we arrived in New South Wales to see the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It is the heaviest steel arch bridge in the world, and it’s known as a constructed feature.
After, we took a dive in the Great Barrier Reef. This natural feature is located in Queensland. We saw lots of coral and colourful fish.
Finally, we travelled back to Western Australia to see the Swan River, a natural feature which flows through the City of Perth.
Travelling around Australia was extremely fun. We hope you enjoyed it and learned some interesting facts.
TA11 Students
Faction Carnival
On Friday the 30th of August, the students from Pre Primary to Year 6 competed in the West Balcatta Faction Athletics Carnival. There was a great turnout of parents and the weather gradually improved throughout the day’s track events and team games. Congratulations to O’Connor Faction who won the Athletics Carnival Day with 732 points. Well done to all students who participated in the track events and novelty team games. Thank you to parents who assisted with securing the gazebo and assisting in the morning with setup for a successful Athletics Carnival. It was great to see strong sportsmanship and support for the different factions throughout the day. A special mention to the students who came Runner Up or were Champion Girl and Boy for their year.
The Interschool Athletics Carnival will be held on Thursday the 19th of September (Week 10) at Noranda Sporting Complex. We are seeking parent volunteers for the day. If you're keen, please contact Geoff Dwyer. Best of luck to the students who are selected to represent West Balcatta at the upcoming Interschool Athletics Carnival.
Geoff Dwyer, Physical Education Specialist
| Year | Champion Boy | Runner Up | Champion Girl | Runner Up |
| 3 | Harrison | Xavier | Mehrish | Lucy & Sasha |
| 4 | Max | Kai | Phoebe | Tayla |
| 5 | Preston | Gerry | Jessica | Evana & Ava |
| 6 | Harry | Jensen | Allegra | Keira |
| 1st O'Connor: 732 | 2nd Hannan: 684 |
| 3rd Forrest: 602 | 4th Stirling: 565 |
Family Open Night
Last Wednesday evening, our school came alive when families poured in to explore our learning spaces and experience firsthand the incredible work happening across the school.
Children were beaming with pride as they guided their families through classrooms, showcasing projects, activities, and all the hard work they’ve put into their learning this year. It was wonderful to see so many parents, grandparents, and siblings engaging with the students’ work and hearing directly from them about their learning.
The Art Room, Italian Room, Library and Music Rooms were popular stops for many families. These areas featured special displays that highlighted the students’ creative and academic talents, offering a glimpse into the many enriching experiences our students enjoy every day.
Families had the chance to mingle with staff and other parents, deepening their involvement in the school community. Meanwhile, the P&C’s Snack Shack kept everyone fueled with delicious dinner options, allowing families to relax, share a meal and enjoy the evening. Thank you to all the families who came along, and a huge thank you to our dedicated staff and P&C for making the event such a success.
West Balcatta Netball Club
This year the WBPS Netball Club had three teams playing in the Perth Netball Association Winter Competitions.
Year 3 Cubs (Coach: Dale Tucker)
The Cubs have had an incredible journey over the past two seasons, showcasing remarkable attitude, determination, and teamwork. The friendships formed and the support given both on and off the court are truly what it's all about. As we look forward to 2025, we’re excited about the continued growth and success of our players and team. Here’s to many more fantastic moments together!
Year 5 Wolves (Coach: Maria Colliver)
This year the Wolves stepped up from the modified NetSetGo comp to play under the full netball rules. The team was really committed and wanted to train and play no matter the weather. With a strong focus on sportsmanship, being supportive and encouraging of each other, they have had a lot of fun and their skills have developed tremendously. All this hard work was rewarded when the team took out the premiership at the end of the season!
Year 6 Tigers (Coach: Dezreena Hoelker)
The core of this team have been playing together since year 3 and their teamwork and support of one another is out of this world. They have worked hard all season and all girls have made substantial improvements in their skills and mastery of the game. The girls really enjoyed their last season playing together and hopefully they continue their netball journey next year.
The Club would like to thank a number of people:
- Our wonderful volunteers who coached/managed a team, kept score, timed a game or participated on the committee.
- David Michael for his generous donation that went to buying new balls and bibs.
- The P&C for overseeing/managing the club's finances
- The school for the use of the grounds for training and our wind up.
Next year: If your child is interested in playing next year, keep your eye out in term 4 as we'll be seeking expressions of interest for players for the 2025 Winter Competitions. We're also looking for some new committee members, coaches and some sponsors to help us buy some uniforms.
Deb Owen, WBPS Netball Committee
Values at West Balcatta Primary School
The Western Australian Values of Schooling articulate what educators in Western Australia believe all students should value as a result of the programs they undertake. There are 5 Values Statements, which guide our values program here at school. Each fortnight, we focus on a new value.
The value for Weeks 5 & 6 of each term is
Self-Acceptance & Respect of Self
The acceptance and respect of self, resulting in attitudes and actions that develop each student’s unique potential - physical, emotional, aesthetic, spiritual, intellectual, moral and social. Encouragement is given to developing initiative, responsibility, ethical discernment, openness to learning and a sense of personal meaning and identity.
The value for Weeks 7 & 8 of each term is
Social & Civic Responsibility
The commitment to exploring and promoting the common good and meeting individual needs without infringing the basic rights of others. This includes encouraging each student to participate in democratic processes, to value diversity of cultural expression, to respect legitimate authority, to promote social justice and to support the use of research for the improvement of the quality of life.
Congratulations to Elena, who won the Year 4 Poster Competition with
her 'Self-Acceptance and Respect of Self' Poster.
Congratulations to Archie, who won the Year 3 Poster Competition with
his 'Social & Civic Responsibility' Poster.
Self Acceptance & Respect of Self
Social & Civic Responsibility
School Photo Days are Coming!
Dear Families,
Your school photo day is coming! Every student will soon receive a personalised flyer to bring home from Kapture Photography containing your child’s unique codes for ordering school photos online.
KEEP YOUR FLYER SECURE! -The unique codes contained on the flyer will be issued only once.
Order EARLY for sibling photography - Sibling photos can ONLY be ordered online. Once you receive the personalised flyers for your children, it is imperative that you order your sibling photo early to avoid missing out! There is a physical limit in the school schedule to how many sibling photos can be taken. Once the maximum capacity of sibling orders has been reached, no more sibling orders can be placed.
If maximum capacity is not reached, sibling orders close 12pm midday sharp, one business day prior to the first photo day.
The school or the photographers cannot accept late orders for sibling photography. Please do not ask as your request simply cannot be accommodated.
Order EARLY for discount photo day prices - Order your photos up to 10 calendar days after photo day to receive discount photo day prices. Late orders are handled separately to the school delivery and incur a $30 custom service charge.
Other information
- Kapture offer a money back guarantee for any parent who is not fully satisfied with their photo package. Should you have any queries before or after photo day, please check the FAQ’s on the Kapture website.
- We request that students who are displaying signs of respiratory and / or gastrointestinal illnesses do not attend school specifically to be included in their class photo. Having students with communicable illnesses attend the photography venues puts other students, school staff and Kapture staff at risk – especially those that are already immunocompromised. Students who are unable to attend school photo day can book a studio appointment at our Malaga office to be photographed during school holidays. We appreciate your understanding in this matter.
- Your school will notify you in a few weeks when team and special group photos are available to view and purchase on the Kapture website. Please note; class, individual and sibling portraits are not available to view online prior to purchase.
- All students will be photographed individually on photo day for school administration records AS WELL as included in their class group presentation available for purchase to all families. Should there be any reason why your child should NOT be included in the photo shoot –please contact the school office.
Kapture Photos
Young Engineers
Keyed Up in Term 4
Tennis at West Balcatta
Minister's Running Challenge
Get up, get moving – let’s get running! Lace up for the chance to win weekly prizes in the 2024 Education Minister’s Running Challenge. It's not too late to sign up.
The Education Minister wants students to get up, get moving, and get running from Monday 15 July to Friday 13 September. The mission is for primary school students to run, walk or wheel for 20 minutes per week. Any running, walking, or wheeling counts toward the challenge. It’s a great excuse to get together, have fun with friends, and get active at the same time.
Each runner who logs their activity throughout the challenge, goes into the draw to win a weekly prize and up to 4,000 students receive free entry into the Perth Running Festival Burswood Park 4km Dash on Sunday 6 October, at Optus Stadium. All runners who participate in the challenge will receive a special certificate signed by the Education Minister.
FREE Better Health Program @ Bounce!
If you're a parent looking to foster healthy habits for your family in a supportive, judgment-free community of fellow parents, the Better Health Program is perfect for you!
Funded by the Department of Health, the Better Health Program supports families and children aged 6-12 years who are above a healthy weight live fun, happy and healthy lives!
Families receive:
- Weekly Support: Families receive support from qualified health professionals.
- Practical Resources: Interactive weekly sessions and resources to encourage healthy behaviour changes. Families receive free resources, such as drink bottles, handouts and posters, and other physical activity equipment, and children work towards achieving a voucher prize.
- Support in: Healthy eating, physical activity, screentime, and forming healthy habits.
- Accessibility: Programs are FREE for eligible families and are delivered online or in-person at BOUNCE Trampoline Parks.
Sign up today here: https://betterhealthprogram.org/signup/ or call 1300 822 953