The West #2 2025
Principal's Preface
As many of you are aware, NAPLAN testing for our Year 3 and Year 5 students began today. This period in the school calendar can sometimes be a little stressful for our students. As teachers and parents, our role is to reassure them that all we ask is for them to try their best—nothing more. It is also important to remember that NAPLAN provides just one snapshot of student achievement at a particular point in time. We consider these results in the broader context of students’ ongoing progress and learning in the classroom.
On a lighter note, it was wonderful to see so many of you at the Family Picnic last week! It was a fantastic evening, with the cooler weather allowing us to relax and enjoy some delicious ice cream and pizza while being entertained. A big highlight of the evening was the Scavenger Hunt, thoughtfully organised by our newly elected student council. Using cleverly designed clues, they took students on a fun-filled tour of the school, keeping everyone engaged throughout the event. Those who successfully solved all the clues were rewarded with a canteen voucher at this morning’s Monday Muster. We can already see that this group of leaders is eager to make their mark on our school traditions—they’re already busy planning for Harmony Day!
A huge thank you to our hardworking P&C for organising the picnic, the first of many exciting events and fundraisers planned for the year. Their efforts have already contributed to projects such as the rejuvenation of the A Block Courtyard and funding for essential learning resources, including Mathletics and IXL. Later this year, the P&C will also be supporting a number of incursions and school projects, ensuring our students have access to enriching experiences and additional learning opportunities.
If you are interested in joining or supporting our P&C, we warmly invite you to attend the AGM on Monday, 7th April at 7pm. We would love to see some new faces and welcome fresh ideas!
Thank you for your ongoing support. Enjoy the rest of the week.
Caroline Booth, Principal
Aussie of the Month
Evan, TA12
Evan, you consistently treat others with kindness and respect, ensuring everyone has a fair go. Your willingness to support your classmates and stand up for what is right embodies the true spirit of Aussie mateship. Your actions make our school a better place for everyone. Congratulations, and thank you for being a role model to others!
TA15 Assembly
On the 20th of February, TA 15 performed the first assembly of the year, setting an extraordinary example for the following assemblies. Though short, as the student council and award recipients were added to the mix, the assembly introduced many aspects of persistence, determination and potential, all heavily influenced by that week’s value; Commitment to learning and true potential. Khai Phong
It was the 20th of February at 8:50 am in West Balcatta Primary Schools assembly area, students were taking their seats and quieting down. Meanwhile, TA15's nerves were through the roof. Leo stood up to welcome everyone to our assembly and announce our wonderful topic of pursuit to knowledge and commitment to achievement of potential, then we were off. Mahlia and James did a fabulous job staring as the main characters and perfectly showcasing the value and showing us to never give up. When it came to the whole school song, the school erupted in giggles. Skye
TA9 Assembly
TA 9 hit the ground running in Talk for Writing this year by learning Roger McGough's poem, The Sound Collector. We explored how Mr McGough was able to create an image in the reader's mind by using exciting onomatopoeia, words that sound like the sound they make. We used his playful way of creating a setting with sounds to innovate The Sound Collector and made our very own, The Noise Grabber. Our class was so proud and excited to perform this poem in front of our families and friends.
P&C Twilight Picnic
Last week’s WBPS Family Picnic was a fantastic evening filled with laughter, delicious food and a wonderful sense of community. Hosted by our P&C, this year’s event embraced a "Little Italy" theme, providing a wonderful backdrop to relax and enjoy a night of fun.
Families gathered in the Peace & Harmony Garden, indulging in mouth-watering pizzas from Base WF Pizza and treating themselves to delicious desserts from Take 5 Ice Cream Parlour and Upbeat Sweets. Adding to the atmosphere, Julian Anderson Music provided a beautiful soundtrack for the night, making it all the more special.
This event truly showcased the spirit of WBPS—bringing families together in a relaxed and fun environment. A huge thank you to our P&C for organising this fantastic event, along with our student council who organised a scavenger hunt to keep everyone entertained.
Lunchtime Clubs
Lunchtime clubs are a wonderful way to support students during unstructured parts of the school day, offering opportunities for social connection, engagement, and inclusion. These clubs help students build friendships, develop social skills, and foster a strong sense of belonging.
Every Thursday, Stephanie (School Chaplain) and the Play Team organise a variety of outdoor games and activities that encourage teamwork and fun.
With something for everyone, West Balcatta’s lunchtime clubs are a great way to make the most of your break—come along and join in!
Schools Clean Up Day
On Friday 28 February, our school community came together for Schools Clean Up Day, a national initiative by Clean Up Australia. Led by our dedicated Student Councillors, students from all year levels pitched in during lunchtime to help keep our school grounds clean and litter-free.
Armed with gloves and rubbish bags, students enthusiastically searched the school for litter, ensuring our nature playground, school oval, courtyards, courts, gardens and other outdoor areas areas were left spotless. This event not only helped beautify our school but also reminded everyone of the importance of caring for the environment.
Thank you to our Student Councillors for their leadership in organising this event and to all students who participated. Your efforts help make West Balcatta Primary School a cleaner, greener place for everyone!
Staff Wellness Week
The second half of Term 1 is off to a fantastic start, thanks to our rejuvenating Staff Wellness Week, organised by the Health & Wellbeing Team! Kicking off with a well-timed public holiday, the week was filled with activities designed to support our dedicated staff and highlight the importance of wellbeing in education.
A school is only as strong as its people, and when staff feel valued and re-energised, students benefit too. Happy and healthy educators create a more engaged and productive learning environment, fostering positivity and success for all.
Throughout the week, staff enjoyed meditation and sound bowl sessions, a jigsaw challenge, thank you notes, a delicious cake from admin and a "no work talk" game in the staff room. The free dress day on Friday included both staff and students, strengthening our sense of community. We wrapped up the week with a sundowner at Scarborough Beach, the perfect way to unwind and reflect.
With spirits lifted, we’re ready to embrace the rest of the term with renewed enthusiasm!
