4 July 2025 | Term 2 | Week 10

Kaurna Acknowledgement

Niina Marni. As we feel the earth beneath us, the wind around us and the sun above us, we acknowledge the Kaurna people, the traditional owners of this land. We pay our respects to past Elders and will work with present and emerging Elders to protect and care for this unique land of ours. We also extend this respect to other First Nations peoples. 

Principal's Report

Dear parents, families and students, 

As we reach the midpoint of the academic year. I am again filled with a sense of pride, reflecting on the journey our students have undertaken thus far. Often, we are so busy looking towards the horizon, the next task, we forget to celebrate the growth and achievements our learners, your children, have made. The Learner portfolios are a wonderful opportunity for families to celebrate and reflect upon their progress to date. 

This term, we have warmly welcomed 46 new students and their families into our school community as part of the Mid-Year Reception intake. We will start the sixth reception class, led by Miss Ronnie Braithwaite, and each of the existing Reception classes welcome an additional 5 children. We have supported their transition through 'Meet & Greet' forums and classroom visits; watching them become more confident, as they embark on this next educational adventure, with their peers. 

In our classrooms, we have witnessed an inspiring array of provocations that have ignited student-led inquiries. From our youngest learners in Reception exploring the intriguing question, "Is a dead tree considered a living thing?" to our Year 6 students delving deeply into discussions surrounding the reasons for migration, such as "How does migration impact communities?" - it is evident that our students are not just passive recipients of knowledge but active participants in their learning journeys. 
These inquiries are a testament to the IB philosophy of fostering critical thinking and global awareness. They encourage our students to investigate, ask questions, and seek understanding, providing them with the skills necessary for navigating an ever-changing world. As educators, we are committed to creating an environment that stimulates curiosity and innovation, and it is truly rewarding to see our students rise to the challenge. 

On behalf of the Community & Fundraising Committee, I would like to thank the entire community for their generous donations for our recent cake stall. Your delicious contributions helped us raise over $4,000 and will be instrumental in improving our outdoor play areas. 

A significant body of work has been undertaken by staff and students alike to improve the behaviour during playtime. Our focus of reframing these expectations in the positive, e.g. Be Safe, Be Kind, Be Respectful has resonated with our students. There has been a significant reduction in the number of children receiving Focus room as a consequence for inappropriate choices - Congratulations to all! 
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to our school community. Here's to a wonderful second half of the year filled with more discoveries, challenges, and celebrations! 

Farewell to Heidi
As we bid farewell to our much-loved Deputy Principal, Heidi Rohrig, after 14 and a half remarkable years at Linden Park Primary School, we take a moment to reflect on her incredible impact. 
Throughout her journey, she has witnessed the passage of five principals and countless teachers, SSOs, and other leaders who have come and gone, always remaining a steadfast source of support. 
Starting as Deputy of Junior Primary and later becoming the Deputy Principal - Inclusion, R-7 in 2016, Heidi has championed the needs of students and families, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive. 
As she embarks on her next adventure, as Principal of Norton Summit Primary School, we wish her all the best in this exciting new chapter. Her warmth and empathy will be missed. 

Warm regards, 
Fiona Voigt, Principal

Assembly Awards

Wellbeing News

As this term comes to a close it's amazing to look back and see how much has been achieved. I would like to thank everyone for their support and wish everyone a safe and enjoyable school holiday break. 

Student Action Committee (SAC)
The SAC reps have been busy having class meetings and bringing lots of great ideas to our meetings. The classes voted on a theme for Casual Clothes Day on the last day of term and decided to hold a Pyjama Day. Students wore their pyjamas, Onesies or Oodies. 
Money raised from gold coin donations will go towards new soccer goals on Sanders Oval. 

Anti-Bullying Policy 
The school is currently reviewing the Anti-bullying Policy and one new addition will be the national definition of bullying. The definition reads as follows:

The national definition of bullying for Australian schools says: Bullying is an ongoing misuse of power in relationships through repeated verbal, physical and/or social behaviour that causes physical and/or psychological harm. It can involve an individual or a group misusing their power over one or more persons. Bullying can happen in person or online, and it can obvious (over) or hidden (covert). Bullying of any form or for any reason can have long-term effects on those involved, including bystanders. Single incidents and conflict or fights between equals, whether in person or online, are not defined as bullying. 

To better understand bullying and how families can help their children, below are links to information you may find useful. 

National Definition of Bullying - What is bullying? - national definition of bullying
Advice for Families - https://bullyingnoway.gov.au/support-and-advice/for-families
                                  - Parenting SA - Bullying - Parent Easy Guide
                                  - Bullying - Emerging Minds

Kind regards, 
David Molloy, Student Wellbeing Leader and Autism Inclusion Teacher

DID YOU KNOW? 

Bullying has three main features
It involves a misuse of power in a relationship 
Conflict or fights between equals are not defined as bullying. Bullying occurs where there is a power imbalance. This might come from: 
- the context. For example, a number of children acting against one child
- personal characteristics. For example, different physical, emotional or social development. 
It is ongoing and repeated 
One incident of misbehaviour is not defined as bullying. Schools will respond to all incidents of misbehaviour. 
One act by a single person might be bullying if: 
- the behaviour adds to a series of other people's behaviours that misuse power and result in harm 
- it can be shared online or through technology to a wide audience, or repeated with multiple views. 
It involves behaviours that can cause harm 
Bullying can cause physical and psychological harm. 
Physical harm can include injury. It can also include theft or damage to belongings. 
Psychological harm can include: 
- anxiety
- not wanting to go to school 
- lack of interest in school 
- isolation and depression. 
Psychological harm can last some time. It will depend on a student's situation and the support available to them. Support might come from family, school and friends. 
A fear of being bullied can create psychological harm. 

Department for Education 2025

Farewell from the Deputy Principal: Inclusion

After 14 and a half years, it's time for me to say goodbye to Linden Park Primary School. 
I first arrived in 2011 as Deputy Principal of Linden Park Junior Primary School, when we operated as two separate schools located on the one site. The Primary and Junior Primary Schools had a combined enrolment of just over 700 students across 26 classes (that's nine classes and over 200 students fewer than we have today). Back then, Reception students started every term, there were no chickens, and we ran a successful International Education Study Program with up to 25 long-term visiting students, learning alongside our LPPS students. Although we were two schools, we shared the front office, united by a strong sense of community that continues to thrive today. 
Since then, I've had the privilege of witnessing and contributing to the school's incredible journey of growth and change, including the amalgamation of the Junior Primary and Primary Schools, a steady rise in enrolments, the introduction of the Capacity Management Plan, and the fundraising for and development of the COLA. Over the years, I've worked with four incredible Principals, and with so many dedicated, passionate staff and families who have helped shape the school's strong culture and community spirit. I will always remember the energy and warmth of our school events, especially the legendary Quiz Nights organised by our amazing Community and Fundraising Sub-Committee, the school musicals, and the end-of-year celebrations. 
LPPS has been a big part of my life, and I'm deeply grateful for the relationships, the laughter, the challenges, and the countless moments of joy. I've learned so much from this community, especially about what it means to lead with heart and to champion inclusion. 
Next term, I'll begin a new chapter as Principal of Norton Summit Primary School. While I'm excited for what's ahead, I'll certainly miss the wonderful students, staff, and families of Linden Park. 
Thank you for the memories and for making this such a special place to be. 

Heidi Rohrig, Deputy Principal: Inclusion

NAIDOC Week

National NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across the country from 6-13 July 2025. This is to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Reconciliation is everyone's business! Teaching our students about the oldest living culture in the world is our responsibility. As part of the PYP we aim to nuture peaceful, tolerant young people who are global citizens that will make a difference in the world. 
The 2025 NAIDOC theme is 'The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy'. This theme celebrates achievements of the past and the bright future ahead. 
If you would like more information on NAIDOC or this year's theme please visit; 
https://www.naidoc.org.au/about/naidoc-theme

Linden Park Students Shine at SAPSASA Netball State Carnivals

Over two consecutive weeks, four of our Year 6 students proudly represented their districts at the SAPSASA State Netball Carnivals, held at Netball SA Stadium. 
From Wednesday 18th to Friday 20th June (Week 8) Lara T represented the Adelaide South East District in the Girls' Carnival, showcasing excellent skill and teamwork across three full days of competition. The following week, from Monday 23rd to Wednesday 25th June (Week 9), Darcy A, Eddie Ru and Kavanbir D competed in the Boys' Carnival, representing the Central Metro Zone - a combined team made up of students from the Adelaide South East, City South and Southern Heights. 
After several weeks of rigorous trials, Lara, Darcy, Eddie and Kavanbir were selected to compete at the district level - a fantastic achievement that reflects their dedication and hard work. 
Congratulations to all four students. The Linden Park Primary community is proud of your effort, sportsmanship and success!

Metropolitan Fire Service Visit Linden Park Primary School

Linden Park Primary School recently had the privilege of hosting the Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS) whilst they practised their hose drills. Our early years students watched in awe as the firefighters showcased the skills in team work and precision required in emergency situations. 
After the drills, students, with the careful guidance of the firefighters, had the chance to hold the fire hoses and use the water pressure to manoeuvre a traffic cone across the courts. 
We thank the Metropolitan Fire Service for their time and patience with the many excited early years students! 

Interschool Debating - Debating SA

Debating Success at Linden Park Primary

Linden Park Primary School has made a strong impression in Term 2 of South Australia's Premier School's Debating Competition. This annual event, held from May to September, sees students from across the state compete in thought-provoking debates every three weeks at St Dominic's Priory College on Tuesday evenings. 
This year, we have nine enthusiastic teams representing our school, made up of 50 committed Year 5 and Year 6 students. Since mid-Term 1, they've been attending weekly training and practice sessions to sharpen their skills. Once topics are released, students have three weeks to prepare their arguments - either supporting or opposing the given proposition. 
Our Year 5 teams have tackled fun and challenging topics such as: 
- That cats are better than dogs
- That e-scooters should be banned in the city 
- That Year 5s should do homework 
Meanwhile, the Year 6 students have debated more complex, real-world issues: 
- That self-serve checkouts are a good idea 
- That iPads, computers and tablets in primary school should be banned
- That traffic fines should be based on income 
The students' dedication, teamwork, and enthusiasm have been a highlight of the program. Several have also received individual recognition as Debater of the Night - a fantastic achievement. 
Term 2 has set a strong foundation, and we look forward to seeing our students continue to grow and excel in Term 3. 

Out of Hours Sport - Netball

Year 3 Netball - LPPS White Remain Undefeated! 

With over half the winter season behind them, the Year 3 Linden Park Primary School White netball team remains unbeaten! This enthusiastic and hardworking group of players turns up to every training and game ready to give their best - showing fantastic teamwork, resilience, and a love for the game. 
They've powered through rain, slippery courts, and strong competition, but their determination has never waivered. Thanks to their commitment and team spirit, they've played 8 games and haven't lost a single one. 

Congratulations, LPPS White - go girls! 

Rocking into the Holidays with Burnside Primary!

Term 2 ended on a high note with a live performance from the incredibly talented Burnside Primary Rock Crew.

On Wednesday 2nd July, our Gym was buzzing with energy and music as we welcomed Burnside's Year 5 and 6 Rock Crew performers. The group includes around 50 students made up of singers, musicians and dancers, who have spent Term 2 rehearsing before touring schools across Eastern Adelaide, including Marryatville, Norwood, Trinity Gardens, and Linden Park Primary. 
LPPS students were captivated by the performance, which featured upbeat songs, high-energy choreography, solo musicians, and fantastic student emcees. The Rock Crew not only impressed with their musical and dance skills but also embodied IB Learner Profile attributes: taking risks by performing to new audiences, communicating stories through song and movement, and showing balance through their teamwork, confidence, and commitment. 
A heartfelt thank you to Burnside Primary School for sharing your talents with us and a special shout-out to Music teachers Mr Rob Ballestrin and Mr Oliver Lacota for leading such and outstanding group. 
Your performance was inspiring, uplifting, and the perfect end to our term! 

Heidi Rohrig, Deputy Principal: Inclusion

Community News