2025 Edition 54 12.09.2025

Principal's Message - Mrs Meyrick

Thank you all for a wonderful Term 3. As we start the last week of term we look to celebrate our learning and achievements. Students have been working hard in their classes on their assessment pieces and teachers are finalising feedback, marking and giving results back to students. Well done to our students who are using their learning wall to assist with their improvement and achievement. 

Our P&C are holding a disco in week 1 of term, Wednesday 8th October. Look in the P&C News section for more details. We look forward to seeing you there. 

We look forward to seeing students back at school on Tuesday 7th October. Please note Monday is a public holiday for the King's Birthday. 

Mrs Wuanita Meyrick| Principal (and Year 2)

Deputy Principal's Message - Ms Yager

It is hard to believe that we are already at the end of another school term, with just one week left to go. This term has been filled with learning, growth, and plenty of memorable moments across our classrooms and playgrounds. Our students have shown resilience and curiosity in their learning, and our staff have continued to provide engaging opportunities that bring out the best in every learner.

As we head into the final week, we encourage families to take a moment to celebrate the successes of the term with their children. Whether it’s progress in reading, taking on a new challenge in maths, displaying kindness towards others, or stepping up as a leader, every achievement matters.

We know the last week of term can be a busy one, with final assessments, celebrations, and wrap-up activities. Please continue to support your child with routines and a positive mindset so they can finish the term strong and start the holidays feeling proud of their efforts.

We look forward to the excitement of next term and the new opportunities it will bring for our students to shine as EPIC learners. Thank you for your ongoing support in making our school a place where every child is valued, encouraged, and inspired.

Ms Petra Yager | Deputy Principal Year 3-6

Deputy Principal's Message - Mr Geeling

Last week we held our Junior Athletics Carnival, with students from Prep, Year 1 and Year 2 participating in a range of events. It was wonderful to see so many students giving their best efforts and enjoying the day. A big thank you goes to Mrs Porta for her organisation, and to our senior students and staff who ran the events. I would also like to acknowledge the many parents and carers who attended—the strong support created a fantastic atmosphere for our students.

This week we also welcomed Mrs Sharn Sidhu to our Year 1 teaching team. Mrs Sidhu has joined us as the classroom teacher for 1B. Many students are already familiar with her, as she has previously worked at Ripley Central as a teacher aide while completing her primary education studies. We are delighted to have her on our team.

As we approach the end of term, students are working hard and completing assessment tasks. Maintaining strong attendance during this period is particularly important to support their progress and success.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all families a safe and enjoyable holiday break. We look forward to welcoming students back next term, ready to finish the year with an EPIC Term 4.

Mr Alex Geeling |  Deputy Principal Year P-1

HOD Student Engagement - Ms Ashby

From the Desk of the Head of Student Engagement

At Ripley Central State School, student engagement is at the heart of everything we do. My role as Head of Student Engagement is to support our students, families, and staff to ensure every child feels safe, valued, and ready to learn.

Our focus has been on strengthening our EPIC values-Empowered, Polite, Inclusive, and Careful-across classrooms and playgrounds. When students understand and practise these values, they build positive habits that not only support their learning but also help them form respectful friendships and make safe choices.

A big part of student engagement is working alongside families and community partners. Whether it’s through programs like RACQ Streets Ahead, Adopt-a-Cop sessions, or our own in-school initiatives, these opportunities allow our students to connect learning with the real world while building confidence and responsibility.

We also continue to support students with adjustments to help them thrive. Our goal is always the same: every child feeling successful, supported, and part of our school community.

I am proud of the way our students and staff demonstrate our EPIC values every day. Together with staff and families, we are creating a school environment where students are not only learning academics but also learning how to be kind, resilient, and respectful community members

Attendance and Our EPIC Values

At Ripley Central State School, we believe that every school day counts. Primary school is the foundation of a child’s education-it is where they learn the basic skills they will use for the rest of their lives. That’s why attending school regularly and on time is one of the most important habits students can develop early on.

Why Attendance Matters

Empowered

Every day in the classroom builds on the day before. When students are at school consistently, they feel empowered to take charge of their learning. Missing even one day can make it harder to catch up, especially in reading, writing, and maths. By being present, students strengthen their confidence and take ownership of their learning journey.

Polite

Being at school on time shows respect for their teacher, for their peers, and for their own learning. Attendance reflects a student’s commitment to routines and helps them develop responsibility and self-discipline. These polite habits extend beyond school and prepare students for future success.

Inclusive

School is not just about academics - it’s where children belong. Regular attendance helps students stay connected with their classmates, join in group learning, and contribute to the class community. By showing up every day, students ensure they don’t miss out on the friendships, teamwork, and sense of belonging that make our school inclusive and supportive.

Careful

Good attendance is about planning ahead and making thoughtful choices. Families can show care by setting regular routines, scheduling appointments outside school hours, and communicating with us if challenges arise. These careful decisions keep children safe, prepared, and ready to learn each day.

How Families Can Help

• Set a regular bedtime and morning routine to ensure children are rested and ready for the day.
• Schedule appointments outside of school hours whenever possible.
• Communicate with the school if your child is sick, struggling, or facing challenges getting to school.

Let’s work together to make sure every student is in school, every day. Attendance is a team effort, and your support makes a difference. If you ever need help or have concerns about your child’s attendance, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Any questions or queries please contact Kirsten Ashby on HODSE@ripleycentralss.eq.edu.au 

Mrs Kirsten Ashby| HOD Student Engagement

Head of Department - Curriculum - Mrs Ward

RIPLEY shines on the National Stage

We are so proud to celebrate the incredible achievements of our two FISAF teams who recently competed at the Australian National Championship on the Gold Coast.

Both teams represented our school with outstanding skill, spirit and sportsmanship truly embodying our EPIC values of being Empowered, Polite, Inclusive and Careful.

Ripley Razzles – our enthusiastic Prep team – placed 6^th overall, a phenomenal effort for their first experience at a national event.

Ripley Allstars – our talented Year 1 and Year 2 athletes – placed 7^th overall, showcasing amazing teamwork, confidence, and creativity.

Our athletes competed against teams from Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia making accomplishments even more impressive on such a big stage.

Although the 2025 FISAF season has come to an end, this is not goodbye! We are thrilled to share that we will continue our FISAF journey in 2026! Keep an eye out for try-out dates and further information in Term 4.

A huge congratulations once again to all of our FISAF teams this year – you have made our school community proud.

Mrs Tammy Ward  | HOD - Curriculum 

Business Manager - Ms Mitchell

Ms Karen Mitchell | Business Manager 

P&C News

School Watch over the holidays

While we have workers rostered during normal weekday hours, our school still needs community help over the weekends and evenings. If you ever see, hear or notice something that does not seem right, please call 13 17 88 to report. 

Know Grow Glow interviews

Know Grow Glow Interviews

We value strong partnerships between home and school, and our Know Grow Glow (parent/teacher) interviews are a great opportunity to discuss your child’s progress and learning goals.

📅 Date: Monday, 13^th October (Term 4, Week 2)

🕒 Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM

📍 Location: School Hall- Entry via Binnies Road Gate 7

Bookings have now closed and our teachers are preparing for the interviews. 

Thank you to our parents and carers to take advantage of this opportunity to connect with teachers and support their child’s learning journey.

EPIC Lessons

Evacuations and Lockdowns at Break Times

At Ripley Central State School, student safety is our top priority. Throughout the year we practise emergency evacuations and lockdowns, including during playtime and lunchtime, so students know exactly what to do wherever they are.

What students do at break times

If we evacuate (e.g., fire, unsafe area):

1. On hearing the evacuation signal or instructions, students stop, listen, and walk with the nearest staff member.
2. Students leave play equipment/balls where they are and move directly to the oval assembly point.
3. Classes line up and listen for roll-marking and instructions.
4. Students stay with their class until the all clear is given.

If we lock down (e.g., risk outside the school):

1. On hearing the lockdown signal or instructions, students move quickly and calmly with the nearest staff member to the closest safe indoor space.
2. Students follow directions to stay quiet, out of sight, and off devices until the all-clear is given.
3. Learning or play resumes only when the all clear is given and it is safe for students to leave the room.

Why we practise

Regular drills build confidence, reduce anxiety, and ensure we can respond quickly and consistently—whether it’s in the classroom, the playground, or the canteen line. Thank you for partnering with us to keep every child safe, calm, and EPIC during emergencies.

HPE News Week 9

Regional Athletics

Darcy competed at the Met West Regional Athletics carnival last week and came 6^th overall in high jump. He competed against 22 other students from the region and jumped a new PB of 1.19m. Well Done Darcy!

AFL

Over the last weekend, some of our students had the incredible opportunity to form the Guard of Honour for the Brisbane Lions AFLW team. They represented Ripley Central with pride and enthusiasm, making us all very proud.

Passion Projects

Our Term 3 Passion Project Fair will be held on Thursday 18^th September at 2pm in our Curiosity Centre. All students are invited to participate, by creating their Passion Project to share and have on display. You can learn more about Passion Projects on our school website. 

What is on in September?

Upcoming School Events

Year 6 Graduation Dinner – Save the Date!

We are excited to announce the details for our Year 6 Graduation Dinner, a special evening to celebrate the incredible journey of our graduating Class of 2025.

The event will be held on Thursday 11th December 2025 from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at Brothers Leagues Club Ipswich, located on Wildey Street, Raceview.

Students are asked to dress in smart attire and can look forward to an evening filled with celebration, laughter, and memories. There will be photo opportunities with an open-air photo booth to capture the night.

Tickets for our Year 6 students will be available to purchase this term at approximately $45 per head. Invoices will be sent to Year 6 families shortly. Please note that only students will require a ticket.

Parents and carers are invited to attend from 6.30pm – 7.00pm for the formal component of the evening. Please note this will be standing room only, and we kindly ask that parents depart at 7.00pm to allow the students to enjoy their dinner and celebration. This adjustment has been made due to the large growth in student numbers and limited venue capacity. Families may like to consider booking a table at Brothers for dinner while they wait for the evening to finish. 

We look forward to celebrating this important milestone with our Year 6 students as they get ready to take their next big step into high school!

Dear Parents and Carers

We’re excited to announce that Photo Day at Ripley Central State School has been confirmed for:

Monday, 20th October 2025

Please mark this date in your calendars! More detailed information, including ordering instructions, will be sent closer to the day.

We appreciate your support in ensuring all students are present and prepared for this special day.

If you have any questions in the meantime, feel free to contact the school office.

Community News

Future Lions, are you ready to cheer? 📣🙌

We're calling all Year 6 students! Be part of Bremer’s undefeated Cheer Academy teams and experience a day of skills, training and fun this Term 4. Meet our talented coaches, train alongside our student ambassadors, and see what it’s like to be a Bremer Lion. 🦁✨

🔹Monday 13 October 2025 (Week 2)

🔹9:00am – 2:30pm

Year 6 students are invited to spend the day learning skills, training with our talented coaches, and meeting our skilled student ambassadors. It’s the perfect chance to see what it’s like to be part of our champion cheer community. 💙💛

Register today: https://tinyurl.com/5234v5xw

‼️Registrations close Wednesday 8 October (Week 1)

#BremerStateHighSchool 

Enrol now for Prep 2026

Second Hand Uniforms

As children grow, or families move from the area, families have the opportunity to sell their second-hand uniforms via a Facebook page created by our P&C. You can join via Facebook on the below link.

You are also welcome to donate any uniform items to our school, and we support families who are in need.

Student Departure

If your family is leaving our school, please email admin@ripleycentralss.eq.edu.au with departure date and new destination school. This allows our administration staff to commence processes to support your departure. This includes ensuring books and musical instruments are returned, checking your family’s financial status with the school and also updating your child’s class teacher so they can prepare to send home their books and belongings. While we are sorry to see you go, we also want to help make the process smooth for you.

Reporting Student Absences

Please be reminded that the way to report student absences is 
* by phone 3819 5777 (you can do this before office hours and leave a message).
* via QParents (if you have not yet registered for QParents, please contact administration). This is our school's preferred method of reporting absences. 
* in person at administration (especially if you know a date in advance). 
Please do not email absence notifications. Our school receives a large volume of emails and your message may be missed as we process absences each morning. You may then receive a text message that you will need to respond to. This inconveniences you, and also increases our staff workload.  

Contacting our School

You can call us on 07 3819 5777   if you need to contact us. Please save the number to your mobile so you know if we are calling you. 

Email – admin@ripleycentralss.eq.edu.au

OR for all enrolment matters please email enrolments@ripleycentralss.eq.edu.au 

Phone - 07 3819 5777  (between 8.20am-3.15pm Monday to Friday - or school days)