It was a mixed bag of emotions when school returned at the start of the year. Some were excited, some were nervous, some were scared, and some ended up a blubbering mess – and that was just the parents! 

Children and school staff from around the district returned to school and pre-school last week. For the students starting prep it is the next chapter in their education journey. Like their parents, they too, have a range of emotions that emerge in the week leading up to the big day.

Gunbower Primary School welcomed four Foundation students. Acting principal, Scott Trewhella said, “Scarlett, Alby, Willow and Adam have settled in beautifully at Gunbower Primary School. The whole school is looking forward to joining Leitchville Primary for the commencement of their annual Water Awareness and Swimming Program starting on February 8. Gunbower also welcomed Meg Howlett, teaching our Grade 2/3 class.”

Principal of St Mary’s, Jasmine Ryan, stated, “St Mary's starts the 2021 school year with much excitement and gratitude! We are thankful to be altogether and eager to continue to learn and grow. 2021 welcomes many new beginnings with new families, new staff and new learning. This year we welcome 14 new Preps and three new staff and continue to strive to provide quality learning and teaching to engage and inspire! St Mary's is hopeful to see a full year together as one. We are grateful for the learning and support we received last year, and we know with the community that surrounds us we will have a fabulous school year,” she said.

Cohuna Consolidated School’s principal, Valerie Lobry said, “Cohuna Consolidated School has had a great start to the year, with 144 students enrolled, including 24 Foundation students. The school has been able to welcome back its volunteers and parents on site, much to everyone’s delight. Our dynamic Parents Club welcomed all our new parents with a morning tea on the first day of school, giving anyone new a little taste of our welcoming school community.”

Fiona Miller, principal of Cohuna Secondary College says, “It has been great to come back to smiling faces and, I think, a newfound appreciation of what it means to attend school onsite rather than home learning. It has been a great start as we all settle into a close to ‘normal’ routine. We are looking forward to offering a full school program this year; including camps, sporting events and community involvement.”