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Mr Russell Thompson l Principal
Term 1 is always a busy and exciting time as staff and students settle into the new school year. Our Prep students are adjusting to new routines and are understandably a little tired. Across the school, our calendars quickly fill with activities and events, making the term fly by.
Thank you for your continued support in checking the Parent Update emailed each Sunday afternoon, as well as our website calendar for important dates. We are committed to locking in key dates as early as possible to support your planning—both in terms of time and finances. If you require any assistance with payments, please make an appointment to meet with Danielle, our Business Manager. Payment plans are available and can be easily arranged.
Term 1 Highlights and Successes
We've had a fantastic start to the year, filled with meaningful experiences and achievements:
- Our student leaders received their badges at the Investiture ceremony.
- Students have embraced new opportunities through our expanding Chess Club and skateboarding lessons.
- Auditions were held for our Surf Academy and Dance Excellence programs, which will see students compete in carnivals and eisteddfods throughout the year.
- Selected students from our school Chess team proudly represented our school at an inter-school competition.
- Many students trialled for representative pathways in their chosen sports.
- Our beach fun run was a great success.
- Families joined us at the Meet the Teacher afternoon and again later in the term for parent interviews.
- We celebrated National Ride2School Day and Harmony Day.
- Our Prep to Year 2 students enjoyed the Bonnet Parade and proudly displayed their decorated hats.
Our P&C has also been active, hosting their AGM, organising a movie night and sausage sizzle at Meet the Teacher, and continuing their coordination of the after-school art classes. Their contributions to our community are greatly appreciated.
School Improvement Agenda – Achievements
Our focus remains on ensuring every child is succeeding and included. We continue to work toward three key improvement priorities:
Term 1 Celebration Snapshots
Belonging (Student Zones of Regulation Survey)
• 90.7% of students feel they have a range of strengths
• 91.2% of students respect and accept people who think differently about things to themselves
• 75.6% of students feel comfortable using a strategy to help calm themselves down when angry
Engagement
• 93.3% average attendance
• 4 major incidents per week
• 4.1 minor incidents per week
Learning (Student Voice Data)
• 97% of students can articulate what they are learning
• 75% of students can explain how they’re progressing
We love hearing directly from our students about their learning experiences. One Year 3 student shared:
“I used exaggeration in my persuasive letter to convince Mum and Dad to take me to the ANZAC Day march. I wrote that it would be the most important day of my entire life!” — Year 3 Student
Attendance Matters
Every day counts. Our school attendance target is 93%. We understand students may be absent due to illness or weather events; however, regular attendance is essential for learning progress.
Our current overall attendance is 92.2%. Below is our weekly attendance snapshot (from Week 1 to Week 9):
Date Saver – ANZAC Day March (Friday 25 April)
Our school has been invited to participate in the ANZAC Day community march with Kawana RSL on Friday 25 April (Week 1, Term 2). Details are still being confirmed, but we expect to meet near the Kawana Surf Club at approximately 10:25am, with the march starting around 10:35am. Students will be asked to wear full school uniform, bring a hat and water bottle. Further information will be shared early in Term 2.
Looking Ahead – Term 2 and Holidays
As we wrap up a productive Term 1, we encourage all students and families to take time to rest and recharge over the upcoming Easter break. The holidays are a chance to reconnect, reflect, and return refreshed for another exciting term of learning.
- Public Holiday (Easter Monday): Monday, April 22
- Term 2 Begins: Tuesday, April 22
- Public Holiday (ANZAC DAY): Friday, April 25
On behalf of the entire staff, I wish you a safe and enjoyable holiday break. We look forward to seeing everyone back, energised and ready for Term 2.
What does Harmony Day mean to me?
Harmony Day means being inclusive and accepting everyone. Respecting every different culture equally. Everyone belongs everywhere and is accepted. Saxon 4/5E
Harmony Day means to treat people how you want to be treated and remember everybody is special. You need to respect and accept everyone’s opinions and we are all equal. Archie. P 4/5E
Harmony Day means your culture and everybody is equal and we respect each other. Jesse 4/5E
Harmony Day means being inclusive and celebrating different cultures. You treat everyone with respect and equality. Everyone should accept other people even if they are from a different country. People treat others how you would like to be treated. Indi.K 4/5E
Harmony Day means that everyone belongs and are equal. We respect each other and their culture. To make sure that everyone is respected and accepted. You should be kind to each other. Edie 4/5E
Harmony Day is an inclusive day where everyone belongs and respect other people’s culture and beliefs. It’s a time to remember we are all equal no matter what we dislike or our personality. We should all respect each other and use kind words. Selma 4/5E
Thank you 4/5E for sharing your reflections and wiHarmony day
ndow display on Harmony Day
Ride2School
Thank you for all students who brought a smile to everyone’s faces with your wonderful Ride2School helmets. Below are a few photos from the day. Congratulations to the students who won a Big Boing or Event Cinema voucher for your highly creative helmets.
ANZAC Ceremony
Our ANZAC Ceremony will be held at 9am on Thursday 24 April 2025. We kindly ask for all guests to be seated by 8.55am. Our School Captains will be leading our school community through the order of events and our school choir will be singing ‘Let there be peace on Earth’ and ‘I am Australian’. All welcome
What an action packed term we have had. Seeing the growth and progress of our students across the past 10 weeks has been absolutely mind blowing. As parents, you would have noticed this change as well. Make sure you embrace and celebrate with your children their achievements this term. You will see from all the images below, every year level has been busy and are in need of a well deserved break. Stay safe and we will see you all back ready to go for Term 2.
PREP
We have had a wonderful start to school in Prep! It is special to hear that students are loving their time at school and excited and eager to learn more! We hope they continue to come to school with enthusiasm and big smiles.
Our preppies are doing a terrific job at learning and following routines and demonstrating our school caring values. In English, we are learning to retell a familiar story and make personal connections and state likes and dislikes. Each day during our phonics lessons, we learn a new letter and sound and participate in activities to consolidate our phonic knowledge. It has been rewarding to see the growth this term. Each student should feel proud of their effort.
BUDDIES – one of our most favourite parts of the school week. Prep A students love the time we get with 5B and we are very lucky to have some awesome role models in the school.
YEAR 1
In Year One HASS, we have been learning about how things change over time!
We went to Pioneer cottage at Buderim and observed a museum from the past. I had so much fun going on the bus ride. Everly, 1B
They had an iPad there that didn’t even use electricity. Byron, 1C
I saw an old kitchen and saw all the different things they had back then. My favourite was the icing bag because it looked so old. Edi, 1B
I tried out an old mower and it was so much effort. Vallie, 1C
The oven was so different in the olden times. It would have taken so long to cook. They didn’t even have a microwave. It also felt very spooky the top level. Ziggie, 1B
I saw an old bath and they had to fill it up with water. It would take forever. Remy, 1A
The fridge was so small, and it kept the food cold, but it looked so weird. It wasn’t the same as our fridges now. It didn’t even make water or ice. Cora, 1B
I liked the room upstairs and it the bedroom looked so different to my bedroom. Abby, 1D
I liked the old toys and old bed. The bed looked so different to beds at my house. The covers looked different too. The fireplace was so cool and would be good to boil water. Albie, 1D
YEAR 2
During Term 1, Year 2 have been learning many different things. In English, students read the text Voices in the Park and retold the events within the text through a diary entry. To finish the term students have created puppets of the characters and retold the characters perspective through role play.
In Maths, students have been using place value to partition, rearrange, regroup and order 3 digit numbers.
YEAR 3
Year 3 Students Reflect on ANZAC Day: A Call to Attend the Service at Kawana Surf Club
This term, Year 3 students have been immersing themselves in the history and significance of ANZAC Day, learning about the courage and sacrifices made by the men and women who served our country. In the classroom, students have gained a deeper understanding of ANZAC Day, exploring the importance of remembrance, respect, and the spirit of service.
One of the exciting aspects of this learning journey has been the chance for our Year 3s to apply their newfound knowledge creatively. As part of their study, students have been learning to write persuasive letters, encouraging their parents and families to attend the ANZAC Day service at the Kawana Surf Club. These letters are a powerful way for our students to express what ANZAC Day means to them and why it’s important to honour the day with participation in the service.
In addition, the students have created a collaborative ANZAC art wall hanging and ANZAC lanterns. Students also constructed informative posters that highlight the important roles animals played during wartime. From messenger pigeons to war horses, these animals made significant contributions to the war effort. Did you know that the purple poppy, which features on the wreath, represents these animals and their sacrifices? It serves as a reminder of the vital roles they played and the bravery they displayed during the war.
The learning doesn’t stop there! In Japanese class, students have been learning the art of origami, crafting delicate poppies to symbolize the lives lost and the bravery shown by our soldiers. These poppies were used to create a beautiful wreath, which will be presented at the ANZAC Day service at school. This hands-on activity has not only enhanced their understanding of ANZAC Day but also allowed them to connect with another cultural tradition in a meaningful way.
We encourage all families to join us at the Kawana Surf Club on ANZAC Day to honour and remember the brave Australians — and animals — who served and sacrificed. Our Year 3 students are eager to share their knowledge and reflections with you as they proudly march on ANZAC DAY. It's a special way for our community to come together and pay tribute.
Let’s support our Year 3 students in this important project and show our respect for the ANZAC legacy.
CLICK HERE HERE or HERE TO VIEW STUDENT LETTERS.
Buddina State School is very excited to welcome Linda and Leo who will be visiting regularly to help our students with their reading. Leo, the Golden Retriever will be working with us every Wednesday with our Year 2 teachers to help students with their reading. They will help the same students each week. Leo loves children and are looking forward to listening to them read. He doesn’t mind if they make a mistake, just that they learn to love reading as much as he does.
'Hello everyone. My name is Linda and this is my dog, Leo. He is known as a ‘Story Dog’ which means he comes to your school with me and sits and listens to children read stories. Lucky Year 2s!! Leo was rescued about two years ago from an unpleasant home situation and my husband and I are now his owners. We feel so lucky to have him in our family and we try to give him all the love and care he has missed out on.
I think Leo feels very comfortable with his new life now. He loves a walk on the beach and chasing a ball in the waves. Leo loves pats and human affection of any kind. That’s why he loves being with children and listening to them read (he gets lots of pats!). Leo and I are looking forward to coming to your lovely school this year and being part of the school community.'
While Buddina welcomes Linda and Leo, we would love another Story Dog to help our students with their reading.
Our teachers love the program, the students can’t wait to read. Do you, or someone you know have a dog that is well behaved, gentle and is happy around children?
Can spare a couple of hours a week during the school term?
CONTACT Story Dogs so you can start helping children to become better readers.
CLICK HERE for more information.
Mrs Kelly Livermore l HOSES
Buddina State Schools Inclusion Support Teams vision is:
Every Buddina State School student succeeds through Inclusive Education to belong, engage and learn.
Inclusive education means that children and students from all backgrounds, of all identities and all abilities are able to access and participate in education and achieve success.
All students fit under this model including however, not limited to academically bright students with Inspire opportunities, students with learning difficulties and students with disabilities.
Students experience inclusive education when they can access and fully participate in learning, alongside their similar-aged peers, supported by reasonable adjustments and/or teaching strategies tailored to meet their individual needs. Inclusion is embedded in all aspects of school life, and is supported by culture, policies and every day practices.
At Buddina State School we understand that Inclusion is everybody’s business and have a team of Inclusive staff to support all students, that include the Classroom Teachers; Teacher Aides; Inclusion Support Teachers; Leadership Team including the Head of Special Education Services; Speech Language Pathologists; Guidance Officer; Psychologist; wider school staff and community members, Chaplaincy and Regional Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists and Health Care specialists.
Together we work with a shared responsibility to ensure all learners (including Academically Bright; Out of Home care; Mental Health Needs; LBTIQ+; English as a Second Language; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander; Students with a Disability) are supported to access all elements of curriculum and learning.
All Buddina students are Tiered using data, across Buddina’s 3 pillars of Belonging; Engagement and Learning to determine support. Some students have a disability, barrier or vulnerability that has an impact on their ability to access the curriculum. The team meets to discuss what the functional impact of these disabilities, vulnerabilities and barriers are to learning and then what reasonable adjustments or strategies are required for the students to succeed.
Reasonable adjustments include good quality differentiated practices to extensive practices. For some students their disability, barrier or vulnerability comes under the Disability Act (1992) for example: ASD; Communication Disorders; Sensory Processing Disorders; ADHD; Learning Difficulties; Anxiety; Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Hypermobility. These students’ adjustments are then confidentially documented in a Personalised Learning Record on One School for all teachers to plan adjustments and understand the students needs.
If you have any concerns or your Class Teacher has any concerns around your child in the 3 pillars Belonging, Engagement and Learning you may require a meeting or a referral through to the Student Support Services Team (Class Teacher, Inclusion Teacher, Guidance Officer & Head of Special Education) whom work together to ensure a plan for your student.
We thank you for your support in Term 1 and wish you and your family a safe, happy and chocolaty Easter break.
Please meet our Friendly Team
From left to right:
Donna Neil: Prep dneil15@eq.edu.au
Jarryd Hill: Year 1 jhill517@eq.edu.au
Stacey Thompson: Year 2 sxtho19@eq.edu.au
Amy McGuire: Year 3 and Playgroup amcgu68@eq.edu.au
Zac Smith: Year 4, Skateboarding and Surfing zsmit75@eq.edu.au
Leah Smart: Year 5 lsmar3@eq.edu.au
Peter MacMichael: Year 6 Skateboarding and Surfing pmacm1@eq.edu.au
Kelly Livermore: Head of Inclusion Support Services klive5@eq.edu.au
Please email us directly if required or organise a time to pop into the Support Centre and have a chat.
2025 Academically Bright Curriculum / Showcase of Opportunities
Inspire STEM
A Science, Technology, Engineering Mathematics (STEM) workshop for year 1 – year 6 for 2 hours, once a year at Buddina SS with an expert in the field of STEM . Approx. 3 student per class nominated by Class Teacher and Inclusion Support Teacher.
Inspire Mathematics
A Mathematics workshop for year 1 – year 6 for 2 hours, once a year at Buddina SS with an expert in the field of Mathematics. Approx. 3 students per class nominated by Class Teacher and Inclusion Support Teacher.
Readers Cup
5 students only from year 6 read 5 novels set by the governing body. The students compete against other schools on their comprehension and understanding of texts. Off campus, students nominated by Class Teacher and Inclusion Support Teacher.
DaVinci Decathlon
The da Vinci Decathlon is an academic competition designed to challenge and stimulate the minds of school students. Students compete in teams of eight across 10 disciplines: engineering, mathematics, code breaking, art and poetry, science, English, ideation, creative producers, cartography and legacy. Year 5 & 6 students only 5 in each year level, off campus, students nominated by Class Teacher and Inclusion Support Teacher.
Inspire Writing
A Writing workshop for year 1 – year 6 for 2 hours, once a year at Buddina SS with an expert in the field of English / Writing. Approx. 3 students per class nominated by Class Teacher and Inclusion Support Teacher.
Future Problem Solving Australia
Global Issues Problem Solving (GIPS) participants research a series of global topics and learn a six-step creative problem solving process, either as a team or individual. In a written response, students are required to address, critically analyse and solve a major issue identified from a 'Future Scene', an imagined scene set in the future.
Brainways Days of Excellence
Brainways Days of Excellence programs are unique in the field of gifted education, being provided over one or two school days in which a topic is investigated fully and with great intensity. Years and number of students dependant on program. Off campus, students nominated by Class Teacher and Inclusion Support Teacher.
ICAS Assessments
Are international academic competitions. Students can sit up to 6 exams on English, Mathematics, Science, Digital Technologies, Writing and Spelling Bee. The questions are engaging and fun and have been designed by psychometricians, education measurement experts and experienced teachers to push students to their academic limits, as well as test higher-order thinking and problem-solving abilities. Assessments completed on line at school over a period days. Parent nominated.
Debating
Debating develops essential skills such as critical thinking, public speaking, research, teamwork and active listening. Students represent Buddina SS in the Sunshine Coast Regional Competitions. Individual students nominate themselves.
Rotary Story Writing Competition
Students write a story based on a Rotary provided topic to compete to win prizes. Individual students nominate themselves.
Chess Club
Open for students of all ages on Tuesday mornings 7.40 – 8.25. Individual students nominate themselves.
Please keep an eye out for nomination emails, Newsletter items and Parent Updates for dates and information on each individual event or CONTACT Kelly Livermore Head of Inclusion Services for more information.
CLICK HERE TO SEE INCLUSIVE EDUCATION PROJECT
CLICK HERE TO SEE GROWING MINDS INFORMATION
A message from Guide Dogs Queensland
Are You Ready to Unleash Your PAWtential?
Join the Guide Dogs Queensland Youth Ambassador program and help support our pups on their journey to becoming lifechanging Guide Dogs.
The Youth Ambassador program is a paws-itively amazing opportunity for kids and schools to make a real impact! As part of this program, you’ll:
- Learn about the incredible work of guide dogs and how
they support people with low vision or blindness. - Spread awareness and raise funds for a great cause
- Earn some PAWsome prizes and even get the chance to
meet a guide dog in training!
Sign up to receive your welcome pack with fundraising ideas, tools, and everything you need to get started. Together, we can change lives—one paw at a time! CLICK HERE
Visit the QR code below to get started today.
Mr Ben Wickham and Mr Brett Gripske l HPE Teachers
2025 Beach Fun Run
Buddina State School's sandy shores were a sea of excitement on March 25th as students from Prep to Year 6 eagerly participated in the much-anticipated Beach Fun Run. Designed to promote participation, fitness, community spirit, and friendly competition, the run saw young athletes showcasing their determination and teamwork along our picturesque coastline.
Thanks to everyone who came and supported our students at the 2025 Beach Fun Run. Despite challenging beach conditions, including a large number of bluebottles washed up on the shore, students embraced the event with enthusiasm. The day was a huge success, the kids all performed extremely well on the soft sand track.
Congratulations to our place getters below
It was the formidable Sharks house that emerged victorious, clinching the coveted title as ‘House Champions’. Well done to all the boys and girls from the Sharks!!
The first six runners from boys and girls in the 10 Yrs, 11 Yrs & 12 Yrs age groups have gained selection into the Buddina State School Cross Country team and will now compete at the Coastal District Carnival on Wednesday 14th May. Good luck to these runners!
Representative Sport
It’s been a busy start to the year for many of our Buddina athletes competing in district and regional trials. These trials are very competitive with students from all fourteen schools in our district battling for an initial spot in a Coastal District team. If selected, they then compete against the other six districts at regional trials with the goal of making a Sunshine Coast team and going on to Queensland trials. A very high-level of skill, commitment and hard work is required to compete at this level. Well done to the following students on being selected in the following teams, we wish you all the best at the upcoming carnivals.
Sunshine Coast Regional Girls AFL team: Zahlee S
Sunshine Coast Regional Girls Hockey Team: Lahni R
Buddina Swimming Team: Zarlie B, Eva B, Emily D, Annabelle M, Samantha M and Hayes T
Coastal District Swimming Team: Emily D, Samantha M and Hayes T
Coastal District AFL Team: Skylar B, Zahlee S, Jack T, Kai H and Soren L
Coastal District Basketball Team: Skylah S
Coastal District Rugby League Team: Frank S, Kolbe K, Parker P, Nakoa W, Bohdi B, Juju N and Matthew V
Coastal District Softball Team: Parker P, Frank S, Harris W, Skylar B, Charli L and Addien O
Senior Athletics Carnivals
Our senior athletics carnivals will be held on Monday June 9th and Tuesday June 10th for all students in years 4- 6. A timetable will be sent out next term. All spectators are welcome.
Mrs Danielle Smith l Business Manager
Exciting Facilities Update at Buddina State School
At Buddina State School, we’re all about creating a dynamic, fun, and safe environment for our students, staff, and the entire school community. And over the recent school holidays, we’ve been busy making our campus even better! From spruced-up facilities to exciting new projects, we can’t wait to share all the amazing updates with you.
Completed Works: Major Upgrades Galore
It’s been a whirlwind of improvements, and we’re pumped about the transformations around our school! Check out the awesome upgrades we’ve wrapped up over the holidays:
- Amenities C: Our toilets just got a major glow-up! The full refurbishment is complete, offering a fresh, clean, and comfy space for all.
- Oval: The senior oval has had a much-needed facelift! We’ve added new irrigation, lush turf, and shiny goal posts to make sure our sports fields are top-notch for all those energetic games and recreational activities. Plus, we’ve kicked ants to the curb with some serious pest control, creating a healthier, environment for everyone to enjoy!
- Prep C & D: The roof replacement is done, so now these classrooms are even more protected from the elements. Bring on the sunshine (or rain) – we’re ready for anything!
Ongoing and Upcoming Projects: The Fun Doesn’t Stop
But wait, there’s more! We’ve got a whole bunch of exciting projects lined up that are going to make Buddina even more awesome. Here's what's in store:
- Unisex Toilet at Amenities A: The brand-new unisex toilet is almost finished! Just a few finishing touches left before it’s ready for use – we can’t wait for you to see it!
- Security Fencing: We’re putting the final touches on our security fencing, making the school even safer and more secure for all.
- Roof Replacements: Two more roofs across campus are getting replaced later this year, so our buildings will stay in tip-top shape.
- Prep C & D Classroom Refurbishments: We're giving these classrooms a fresh new look inside! Get ready for some exciting, modern learning spaces.
- Support Centre Playground: Our playground is getting a facelift! We’re making it more fun, safe, and engaging for all the students who love to play and explore.
- Beautification: With the help of our awesome P&C, we’re kicking off Stage 1 of our beautification project! First up: we’re jazzing up the area near the Senior Playground and Tuckshop – it’s going to look amazing!
- New PA (Bell) System: The old bell system is getting replaced with a shiny new one, and guess what? It will not only ring the bells but also play fun tunes! So, get ready for some catchy songs to ring in the school day.
These upgrades and projects are all about making Buddina State School a safer, more exciting, and inspiring place for everyone. We’re so excited to see all of these changes come to life and can’t wait to share more updates as they unfold!
Thank you for your ongoing support in making Buddina State School such a fantastic place for learning, growing, and having fun. Stay tuned for more!
Let’s make this year the best one yet!
Mrs Jodie Buddle l Japanese Teacher
Congratulations to our year 3 students who have made an impressive start to their Japanese language learning journey. We are building on our knowledge of Japan and our vocabulary is building every week. Students in year 4, 5 and 6 continue to demonstrate a genuine desire to improve their language skills.
This year we introduced Games club for year 3 and 4 students on Monday second break. This is not Japanese specific; however, it is held in the Japanese room. Japanese club for years 3/4/5 and 6 students, held on Tuesday at second break in the Japanese room. Origami Club is for year 3/4/5 and 6 students, held on a Wednesday First break in the Japanese Room.
Exciting news in our school at the moment is…THE KINDER KIDS ARE COMING BACK!
From the 6th of August we will host students from Japan. They will stay with families from our school for 13nights.
We are currently seeking willing families to assist with hosting students. We hope our families from last year will help us again this year, we do however need additional families. This experience will help your child to become a global citizen whilst making lifelong friends, sharing our culture and learning about theirs. If you would like to learn more about hosting, please EMAIL Jodie Buddle – Japanese teacher or EMAIL the agent arranging the host families.
Rachel Viner | Instrumental Music Teacher
Term 1 has been a busy one with our 20 new beginners starting their new instruments.They are starting to develop a great sound and are working on learning their first 5 notes and songs that include these notes.
Practice often rather than once a week!
Playing more often in short spurts (15- 30minutes) is very import for young musicians, helping them remember skills, such as fingers, building their instrument, lining up their reed, buzzing etc. Having that one playing session on a Sunday afternoon can be tiring, and students may forget tasks If they leave practice to once a week.
SCIMEP Auditions
In term 2 many players with 2 years or more experience will be nominated to attend SCIMEP. The Sunshine Coast Instrumental Music Ensembles Program. This will require learning audition pieces that we record at School and send in. If your child is successful, they will be asked to attend SCIMEP in August. This is a 1 or 2 day Workshop.
Have a great Easter and don't forget to play a tune or 2 over the break, to entertain your friends and family! Musical play dates and fun books are great ways to encourage our young musicians.