Dear Bicheno Primary School Community

As we bring another inspiring term to a close, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the incredible growth and achievements of our students. This term has been a powerful reminder of what’s possible when learning is driven not just by content, but by connection, perspective, and purpose.

Across the school, students have been exploring the power of perspective, learning to see the world through different lenses, to listen deeply, and to speak up with respect and conviction. Whether unpacking characters in literature, navigating social situations, or discussing democracy and decision-making, our learners have shown maturity and empathy in considering multiple viewpoints.

They’ve discovered that standing up for what you believe in doesn’t mean standing alone, and that respectful dialogue is the foundation of strong communities. These are not just academic skills; they are life skills, and they are being nurtured every day in our classrooms.

External School Review results

This week, we were privileged to host Grant and Angela from the External School Review team. Over three days, they engaged deeply with our staff, students, and families, exploring our practices, culture, and the impact we’re making as a school community.

On Wednesday afternoon, Grant shared the review findings with staff, and we are proud to report that the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. The report includes affirming quotes from across our community, such as:

“I couldn’t talk more highly of the school and the staff.” – Family

“We are so lucky to have such an amazing school in our community.” – Family

“Our teachers make learning engaging and fun.” – Student

“I always have an adult to go to if I need support.” – Student

“The school is always trying to improve and learn.” – Family

“We have a great leadership team and staff who are always willing to support each other.” – Teacher

The External School Review highlighted a wide range of affirmations that reflect the strength, unity, and forward momentum of our school. There is a deep sense of professional dedication among staff, underpinned by high morale and a collegial culture of trust and mutual respect. Staff consistently demonstrate a strong commitment to our School Improvement Plan, particularly in the areas of reading, engagement, and attendance. Positive, caring, and trusting relationships are central to our culture and are clearly contributing to student success. Students and families spoke highly of our staff, with comments reflecting the school’s welcoming environment and the strong connections built across the community. Our school is recognised as a true ‘hub’ of the community, with a collaborative and optimistic spirit that drives continuous improvement. The review affirmed our focus on student voice and agency, the depth of staff knowledge about their learners, and our commitment to professional learning that builds staff capability. Effective use of data to support reading intervention, a robust Learning Plan process, and clear curriculum documentation aligned with pedagogy were all noted as strengths. Practices such as inquiry planning, learning walls, and the development of learner assets and values show our commitment to making learning visible and meaningful. The review team commended our inquiry-based pedagogy and the way it supports both skill development and the growth of learner dispositions, affirming that Bicheno Primary School is not only thriving but leading the way. They also outlined strategic improvement priorities that will guide our next four-year planning cycle, strongly aligned with our school’s vision and future direction.

Grant commended our leadership in curriculum development, school culture and its alignment with high-impact pedagogy. This is clearly reflected in our student data across wellbeing, engagement, reading, and mathematics, where we are performing well above similar schools and, in most cases, above national averages.

We are proud to share that Bicheno Primary School is leading the way, and this review confirms what we already know: we have a truly exceptional school here in Bicheno. The Executive Summary of the External School Review Report is included in this newsletter for your reference. I will be unpacking the full report with the School Association team at our next meeting.

The Great Gatsby Ball

A heartfelt thank you to our Bicheno Primary School Association for your tireless work behind the scenes. Your efforts in organising our major fundraiser, The Great Gatsby Ball, have been extraordinary. A special shout-out to the Gatsby sub-committee for your creativity and dedication. I am happy to share that the event has raised approximately $10000! What an amazing effort and thank you to our community for their overwhelming support.

Farewell

As we close the term, we say goodbye to Willow Bowden and Jheriane Adriano and their families. You’ve been valued members of our school community, and while we’ll miss you, you’ll always be part of the Bicheno Primary family.

We’re excited to carry this momentum into next term with pride, purpose, and the courage to keep asking big questions.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership in learning.

Warm regards,

Thomas Spykers

Principal – Bicheno Primary School