Term 4 Week 9 Newsletter

A Note from The Principal

Dear Families

As the year draws to a close, I feel both pride and gratitude for the journey we have shared in 2024. This year has been one of change for our school community, including many new staff members and a new leadership team. I would personally like to thank all members of the school community (from our Governing Council, families, parents, caregivers, volunteers, staff, and students) for embracing and supporting these changes.

It is hard to believe I have officially done a full year at YAS, with 3 terms in the Principal role. You have heard (or read) me talk about our 2025 Strategic Directions from the start of the year and I am pleased to announce our 3-year plan for YAS is ready to share with you! These strategic directions, which align to the new Department for Education strategy with the focus areas of Wellbeing, Equity & Excellence, Learner Agency and Effective Learners, have guided our 2025-2027 initiatives and priorities. A copy of the Strategic Directions are included on the next page for you.

This year our students have continued to excel academically, artistically, and athletically, demonstrating resilience, creativity, and a commitment to their own development. Whether in the classroom, on the sports field, or through extracurricular activities, their achievements reflect the dedication of our talented teachers and support staff, who consistently go above and beyond to nurture their potential.

In closing the year and reflecting on this term, I would like to highlight:

• The Colour Run and Christmas Fair raising close to $8000 to go toward our new climbing equipment/playground.
• The Primary Christmas Concert which saw a huge number of families attend
• The graduation assemblies for all year levels.
• And finally, an exciting announcement for 2025- the refurbishment of buildings to create a dedicated Senior School. We cannot wait to welcome back our Senior students next year to show them their amazing new space!

As we look ahead to 2025, I am excited about the opportunities that lie before us. Our strategic directions will continue to serve as our compass, ensuring that we remain focused on delivering a holistic, future-ready education for every student. None of this would be possible without the incredible support of our families and broader community. Your involvement, encouragement, and partnership have been vital to our success this year, and I am deeply grateful for the trust you place in our school.

As students and staff prepare to take a well-earned break, I encourage all our students, families, and staff to reflect on the year’s accomplishments and recharge for the exciting year ahead. May your holidays be filled with joy, rest, and the company of loved ones.

Wishing you all a safe and happy holiday season.

Haley Przibilla

A Note from The Pastoral Care Worker

We have arrived!! 

We are at the end of the school year .. and what a year it has been.

So many changes and a few challenges. Lots of hard work and plenty of laughs along the way … 

Thank you for your support of me, as your Pastoral Care Worker, throughout the year. I have had so many opportunities to listen to and care for our young people as they sometimes struggle to navigate friendships, or simply to encourage them as they share what is going on in their world. 

 It is always a joy to host Breakfast club most Mondays and Fridays.

 I have no idea how many cheese toasties I’ve made for our students, but I love having a chat and get to know each young person just that little bit better, while they wait patiently for lunch.

 I enjoy standing on the front steps of school and saying ‘good morning’ to students, families and visitors. 

One of the highlights this year, has been connecting (over several coffee mornings) more closely with several parents as we planned the Christmas Fair. (I think we will have made around $2000).  Thank you to everyone who helped out and made it a special Christmassy afternoon ! 

As we look forward to celebrating Jesus at Christmas, may love, peace and hope be the gifts you give and receive at Christmas.

Have the best time with your loved ones. Stay safe, enjoy the holidays! 

See you in 2025. 

 Love Wendy Lindsay 

Primary Christmas Concert

🎄✨ What a magical evening we had at our Friday Christmas concert! Our talented students filled the air with joy and holiday spirit through their amazing performances. From heartwarming songs to festive dances, and especially the surprise visit from The Grinch!!! It was a true celebration of the season. A huge thank you to everyone who attended and supported our stars on stage! Let’s carry this holiday cheer into the new year! 🎶🎉 #ChristmasConcert #MerryChristmas #YAS

Cockatoo Cafe: Brewing Success and Celebration!

The Cockatoo Cafe team wrapped up the year with a well-deserved celebration! After months of hard work serving delicious drinks and food to staff and the community every Tuesday, the students enjoyed an exciting trip to Bounce followed by a lunch treat at KFC. 

A huge congratulations to all the students who dedicated their time and effort to making the cafe a success this year. Also, a big THANK YOU to everyone that purchased something from the cafe this year and supported us. 

We can't wait to see the Cockatoo Cafe reopen and thrive again in 2025!

Jade Barry

(Cafe Coordinator)

It's FUN being a BOSS!

It's FUN being a BOSS!

Years 7-9 students at Yankalilla Area School embraced their entrepreneurial spirit for the annual $20 Boss Market Day held on Friday, November 15th, from 12-2 pm. The event saw students create and sell a wide variety of products, including cupcakes, candles, bracelets, and even pet food. Some groups added excitement with sideshow games and fun activities such as pouring ice buckets over willing participants and pieing students and teachers. Teachers Connor Jones and Neil Craig gamely joined the fun to help raise additional funds.

The Market Day was a true community affair, with many local members attending to support the students' efforts. Most groups turned a profit, with some funds being donated to a local charity, showcasing the students' creativity and generosity. The event has become a much-anticipated tradition, highlighting teamwork, innovation, and community spirit while fostering valuable business skills for the future.

We can't wait until next year....

Jade Barry

(7/8 HASS Teacher)

First Aid and Workplace Training

On 15^th November Deborah from  [First aid and workplace training] came to YAS and delivered white card training  to 8 of our 

FLO [Tailored learning provision] students. The course has given students the skills and knowledge needed to work safely in the construction industry.

SRC prepare to celebrate Christmas in the Global Garden

Christmas is celebrated globally in many countries. One tradition often practised is the decorating of a tree, said to have started in Germany. This week SRC reps from Miss Loxton's and Ms Abbie's classes decorated one of the Australian natives in the Global Garden to spread a bit of Christmas magic...Even the mosaic koala has received some Christmas cheer!

Years 8 and 9 Aquatics

Our Year 8 and 9 students recently swapped the classroom for the waves, enjoying a day of surfing at Middleton Beach. With 16 eager participants, many trying surfing for the very first time, the group embraced the challenge and the thrill of riding the waves.

The warm water made it a perfect day to spend on the beach. Although the surf was a little messy, the waves were just right for our group, providing plenty of opportunities to catch some great rides. Impressively, most students managed to get up on their feet quickly, showcasing determination and enthusiasm.

A huge congratulations to everyone for giving it their all—you truly ripped it up!

Vacation Care Program 2024/2025