Caboolture Special School Week 1, Term 4, 2025
Principal News
Dear Caboolture Special School community members
Congratulations and thank you on a very positive start to Term 4 for Caboolture Special School.
Being part of the work we do and working alongside such a committed and capable workforce and school community fills me with pride.
Student Attendance
83.4%
Our school continues to rank highly across the State with regards student attendance. Every school day counts.
Carmichael College visit – staff member and P&C Executive morning tea - 10/10/2025
I was truly amazed with the generosity on display here by our community colleagues in providing morning tea for staff and P&C executive members. We look forward to a continuing partnership with Carmichael College in the future.
2025 Annual Implementation Plan (AIP)
One AIP priority = Implementation of Australian Curriculum (Version 9) across learning areas, with a focus on literacy and numeracy within safe, engaging, communicative and learning enriched environments.
High performance acknowledged
Our students have attained impressive ‘C or above’ whole school results in Semester 1 in key areas of English and Mathematics. English = 91.8% C or above. Mathematics = 91.3% C or above.
Current evidence supports that a significant amount of additional students will achieve C or above in Semester 2 in these subject areas, both through their hard work and the skilled and committed endeavours of our staff and of course partners in our work, including parents and carers.
We know that progress is not solely defined by an A, B or C grade though. I also want to acknowledge students who are progressing positively in their work and who are not yet at C or above level in one or more subject areas. Their efforts and achievements and that of their educators and supporters are no less impressive.
Well done!
2026 Classes
Parents and carers have received a SeeSaw message from me on 05/10 outlining procedures for parent/carer 2026 class requests for their child(ren). A copy of the class request information form was attached to the previous SeeSaw message with hard copies of this form also available from the school office. These completed forms are due back to the school office on or before Tuesday 14 October.
Family Support Coordinator (FSC)
In exciting news, Caboolture Special School has been approved under the state-wide FSC pilot, to host a regionally funded, fulltime and school-based AO5 FSC from Term 4’s (2025) appointment date (TBA) until 11 December 2026.
Swimming
Term 4 means swimming time and our swimming program kicks off next week. Please encourage all students to participate. There is no cost for families; our school subsidises this event 100%. Information notes have been sent home and swimming timetable information has been shared through SeeSaw. Please reach out to your child's class teacher for any other class specific swimming information you may require.
P&C Fundraiser - School Colour Fun Run
The annual Colour Fun Run returns for 2025!
Saturday morning - 08/11/2025. 9.30am-12.30pm
Staff and school community member assistance is appreciated in the capacity people can provide.
Event fundraising information has been distributed via information pamphlets and whole school SeeSaw message. Anyone can register for the event (including school community and staff members).
In a very generous show of support, Naomi (Tess Hocking Foundation representative) has advised that the Tess Hocking Memorial Trust will match dollar for dollar up to $15,000 on any monies raised for this event. Thank you.
Principal Tours
Principal tours will continue to occur for new families joining us in 2026. Parents and carers of students intending to enrol at Caboolture Special School in 2026 are invited to attend a group tour of our school on one of the below scheduled dates:-.
Remaining Tour Dates:
- Friday, 31 October
- Friday, 28 November
- Friday, 12 December
Time: 10:00am – 10:30am
Meeting Point: Front Administration Block
Tours include a ‘walk and talk’ around the school grounds, providing a general overview of our facilities and ways of working. Please note that tours do not enter classrooms and individual student needs are not discussed during these tours. Personalised conversations will instead occur during future enrolment meetings with one of our Deputy Principals. RSVP to school office via phone or email - thank you.
Friday Assemblies
(9.15am start in school hall)
Week 1 - whole school assembly (except Term 1)
Odd weeks (other than week 1) – Classes 1-16 assembly
Even weeks (other than week 10) – Classes 17-37 assembly
Week 10 - whole school assembly (except Term 4)
Some upcoming calendar event reminders
World Teachers' Day – 31/10
School Fun Run - 08/11
Year 6 Graduation – 26/11
Last Assembly - 05/12
PBL Reward Day - 05/12
End of Year Concert - 10/12/2025
Until next time
Sheldon Boland
(Always proud) Principal
.
Deputy Principal News
It has been a great start to term 4! Students have settled back into class routines and reedy for learning.
Term 4 will be busy with lots of school events happening where we can connect with our school community to celebrate the successes for the year.
Flouride Varnish
The school dental clinic will be visiting our school this term. The flouride varnish program is free to all families. The team will be here on Monday 3 November.
Due to numbers, they may need to come an extra day which will be Thursday 6 November (if required).
Parents will need to complete a consent form for this dental check to occur.
This consent form will be sent home soon. There is also a link below the flyer if you wish to complete the consent online.
Regards
Kerry Gilmore
Deputy Principal (Classes 1-16)
Deputy Principal News
Term 4 is here! Lots of events across the term to celebrate the personal and academic growth of all our students.
Starting with swimming lessons occurring in week 2 to 6. These lessons are provided by school funds and are such a valuable experience for our students. Every class will have 5 lessons from week 2 -6. These lessons will be on the same day each week. The table below indicates the day that each class will go swimming.
- What each students needs to bring for swimming days
- Suitable swim wear (including a rash shirt for sun safety)
- Googles (optional)
- 2 towels – one for use at the pool and one for drying when getting changed.
- 2 plastic bags for wet towels and swimmers
- Swim nappies as required. See information attached
Depending on the time of your child’s lesson the class teacher may suggest that students wear their swimwear to school in the morning.
If you have any questions please reach out to your class teacher.
Looking forward to sharing students experiences at swimming in the next newsletter.
Katie Rogers
Deputy Principal
Classes 17-28
Deputy Principal News
Welcome Back to Term 4!
Students have settled back into the school routine and continue to demonstrate their commitment to our Positive Behaviour for Learning expectations. Over the next two weeks, our focus will be on “Respect for Learning – We listen and follow instructions.”
Developing active listening skills is an important part of effective communication. When students pay attention, take turns, and stay focused, they help create a positive learning environment where everyone feels heard and valued.
Starman is looking forward to attending the upcoming Gold Morning Teas to celebrate the achievements of students who consistently make positive choices.
As we move through Term 4, preparations are underway not only to celebrate our Year 6 students’ graduation but to also begin the process of selecting our 2026 student leaders
We’re looking forward to a productive and positive end to the school year!
We’re looking forward to a productive and positive end to the school year!
Kathleen Evans
Acting Deputy Principal
Classes 29 - 37
Business Manager News
Self-Awareness: A Key to Emotional Intelligence for Our Whole School Community
Welcome to Term 4! As we enter the final term of the year, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the journey we’ve taken together and to focus on a vital theme that supports every learner, educator, colleague, parent, and carer—self-awareness.
Self-awareness is the cornerstone of emotional intelligence. It allows us to recognise our emotions, understand how they influence our thoughts and actions, and respond to challenges with empathy and resilience. For our students, developing self-awareness helps them build confidence, regulate emotions, and form positive relationships. For staff and families, it strengthens communication, deepens understanding, and fosters a supportive environment for growth.
Together, we can build a culture where emotional intelligence is nurtured and celebrated. Whether it’s recognising a moment of frustration, celebrating a personal achievement, or simply pausing to reflect, each act of self-awareness strengthens our community.
As we approach the end of the year, let’s continue to support one another in growing emotionally, socially, and personally. Thank you for being part of a school community that values the whole person—and embraces the power of self-awareness.
With gratitude,
Biddy Adams
Business Manager
Curriculum Corner
As we enter the final term of the school year, it’s incredible to reflect on how far our students have come. 2025 has been a year of meaningful learning, development, and positive change across our school. We’ve seen our students grow in confidence, build new skills, and engage in learning experiences that are both enriching and tailored to their individual needs. We are incredibly proud of the progress each student has made and look forward to finishing the year strong together.
One of the major shifts in education this year has been the implementation of the Australian Curriculum Version 9 (V9). As part of this transition, our school has been carefully reviewing how we align our teaching, learning, and reporting practices with the updated curriculum. This includes taking into consideration the Queensland Department of Education’s guidelines as well as the valuable feedback we received from our parent and teacher surveys earlier this year.
With end-of-year reporting approaching, we want to let families know that there will be some slight changes to our report cards and reporting processes this term. We understand that reporting is an important way for families to connect with what is happening in the classroom, and we are committed to ensuring it remains clear, supportive, and informative.
This semester the lower school students have been enthusiastically participating in a Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS) unit focused on how technology has changed the way people live, work, travel, and communicate. This topic has sparked great curiosity and engagement among our learners.
To bring this unit to life, we have created a mini museum filled with old-fashioned household items, tools, and communication devices. Students have had the opportunity to touch, explore, and ask questions about these artefacts, which has led to many conversations and comparisons with modern-day technology. This hands-on learning experience not only supports curriculum outcomes but also caters to the diverse learning needs of our students by providing concrete, sensory-rich activities that make historical concepts more accessible and relatable.
We thank you for your ongoing support and partnership as we continue to adapt and grow together in this exciting phase of curriculum renewal.
The Curriculum Team
Jody O'Shea and Chela Mega
Caboolture Special School museum
Guidance Officer
Asha Kumar
Guidance Officer
Workplace Safety
SUN SMART
Schools and early childhood services have policies to protect children and young people from UV damage. These include uniforms that provide more protection, creating shade and no-hat-no-play policies.
UV exposure during the first 18 years of a person's life is a significant factor in determining skin cancer risk. It is estimated that 50% of total UV exposure up to the age of 60 occurs before the age of 20. The dermis, one of the skin’s three main layers, is thinner in children than in adults, and is more vulnerable to UV damage.
Parents and carers can support sun safety at school and early childhood centres by modelling the five ways to be sun safe and encouraging the creation of quality, built and natural shade. Cancer Council NSW has developed excellent resources on shade for schools and early childhood centres, as well as a shade advocacy toolkit.
Did you know that Caboolture Special School in collaboration with your P&C Committee, have implemented a Sun Safety School Policy? Check it out now!!!
With the warmer days upon us, it is a timely reminder to encourage your child/ren to keep up the fluid intake to reduce potential dehydration. I have included a water tracker as a fun way for you and your child/ren to ensure they are drinking enough fluids (water).
Caboolture Special School Sun Safety Policy
Rationale
Year-round sun protection is important for all children and young people in Queensland as research demonstrates that high ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure in childhood and adolescence significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancer.
Our school aims to educate our students about being sun safe in order to develop important, life-long, healthy habits, and acknowledges the important role adults play during and outside school hours to reinforce sun safety with children and young people.
In implementing this policy, our school and community recognise that:
- the policy applies to all school and school-related activities and events;
- the strategies are to be implemented during the whole school day and year-round; and
- a combination of sun safe strategies is more effective than a single approach.
Date of commencement: October 2025
Review date: October 2026
ELEMENT | STRATEGIES |
Clothing requirements | Students are required to wear protective clothing, including appropriate hats, when outdoors during the school day and during school-related activities (for example, excursions/camps) to reduce students’ exposure to the sun, including the following strategies: Hats · Students are required to wear appropriate hats when outdoors. The only exceptions when playing sport are when a hat reduces visibility or interferes with activity skills and therefore poses a risk to students' safety; or when wearing a hat is not possible because other headwear is required to be worn for religious or safety reasons. Under these circumstances, students may remove their hats for the duration of the activity, ensuring they have applied sunscreen to uncovered skin (ideally 20 minutes) prior to participating. · Our school uniform hat is broad brimmed. · Staff remind students to wear hats before and during lunch breaks, and to and from outdoor activities. · Students who do not have hats will play in the shade or an area protected from the sun. · Spare clean school hats are available for students to borrow if they forget their hat. Swim shirts · Students are required to wear swim shirts/rash vests during all water-based activities occurring at outdoor venues, except during their race/s at competitions and carnivals. |
Shade provision and use | Our school maximises the use of available shade for outdoor activities: · Sports activities are rotated during the week between the hall and the oval. · Temporary shade structures are used as necessary for outdoor events, for example, Under 8s Day, Sports Day, Grandparent’s Day, Science Fair and Welcome to Prep Day. |
Education | Our school provides educational programs on sun safety and preventative measures through the following strategies: Curriculum, teaching and learning · Sun safety is formally taught as part of the implementation of the Australian Curriculum through Health and Physical Education · Staff include the risk of exposure to UVR in their curriculum activity risk assessments for outdoor activities, which includes ensuring that adequate shade is available for outdoor activities where possible, for example, using temporary shade structures. Incidental teaching and promoting sun safe behaviours · Incidental teaching of personal sun safety strategies occurs in all year levels as part of the school routine on a regular basis, for example, through reminders to students to wear hats and apply sunscreen. Staff professional development · Staff are informed about the school’s sun safety policy and its requirements on induction. |
Sunscreen provision | Our school recognises the importance of sunscreen use as a sun safe measure and implements the following strategies: · The school supplies SPF 30 or higher broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen for student use. · Parents/carers are encouraged through social media and newsletter items to have their children apply sunscreen before school. · Parents/carers are encouraged to provide sunscreen for their child if they don’t wish their child to use the school’s sunscreen. |
Modelling sun safe behaviours | Our school promotes the importance of parents/carers, teachers, ancillary staff, volunteers and other adult supervisors as role models for students using the following strategies: · Staff and P&C members are encouraged to consider the use of shade, sun safe hats and clothing, sunglasses and sunscreen when doing their duties, running outside activities, and when on excursions/camps. Parents/carers are encouraged to have their children apply sunscreen before they come to school and provide personal sunscreen for their children to use at school. |
Endorsed by: P&C President Date of endorsement: 16/09/2025 | Approved by: Mr Sheldon Boland, Principal Date of approval: 16/09/2025 |
Kind Regards
Joyce Schaper
Chaplaincy News
Hello All!
Welcome back to the last term of 2025! I hope the break was a time of rest, renewal and joyful moments with loved ones. Whether you are returning full of energy or easing your way back in, know that you are not alone.
A new term always brings a sense of possibility and opportunity to grow, to learn, to build stronger relationships and to be part of something bigger than ourselves. As your Chaplain, I want to remind us all that we are deeply valued and that our school is a place where everyone belongs.
This Term let us focus on kindness – not just as a good idea, but as a daily choice. In our words, our actions and even in our thoughts, may we look for ways to uplift one another, to listen well and to offer grace where it is needed. Every act of kindness matters.
I am here for all students, families and staff – whether you need a listening ear, a word of encouragement or simply a quite place to reflect. My door is always open.
Wishing you a term full of peace, purpose and promise.
Until Next Time,
Chappy Krystal
P & C News
Dear Families,
Welcome Back to Term 4
P&C is bursting with excitement as our School Colour Run approaches, it’s going to be a fun filled day of colour, laughter, and community spirit.
Date: 8 Nov 2025
Location: Caboolture Special School Oval Time: 9:30am till 11:30am
Students will run, walk, or dance their way through a vibrant course filled with colour and energy! Don’t forget to wear a white T-shirt so those colours really pop!
Volunteers – We Need You!
Our events couldn’t happen without our amazing volunteers. If you would like to help on the day, please make sure you contact us through our Facebook page, email or by letting the school office know.
Also please remember if you are volunteering but you child is not participating, please make sure you have your blue card ready to share with the office staff, same goes for other family members (grandparents, aunts and uncles, caregivers)
Your support is invaluable in making the Colour Run a safe and successful event for everyone.
If you’d like more information about volunteering during the day, please contact our P&C.
BBQ, Drinks & More!
No event is complete without great food! Our BBQ stall will be sizzling away with sausages, other options, plus drinks and treats for sale. Bring some cash or your card and support our school fundraising efforts while enjoying a delicious meal.
Only 10 Saturdays Until Christmas!
Can you believe it? The holidays are just around the corner, only 10 Saturdays left until Christmas Day.
Let’s make the most of Term 4 by celebrating all the learning, fun, and community spirit that makes our school so special.
Let’s Make It a Day to Remember!
We can’t wait to see everyone covered in colour, smiles, and school pride. Thank you for your ongoing support together, we’re creating lasting memories for our students and families.
With excitement,
P&C Team
Book Club Issue 7
Book Club has arrived! Look out for your copy of Book Club coming home in your child's schoolbag! It's packed with hundreds of books from just $3 to share the love of reading in your home!
Orders to be placed online by Friday 17th October.
Any enquires please contact Katie Rogers - kroge30@eq.edu.au
Free books promotion for Issue 7
Book Fair
As a thank you for supporting Book Fair and Book Club in the past we have a special offer!
Book Fair this term will be BUY ONE GET ONE FREE!
For every book purchase you will receive a second book of equal or lesser value FREE! Stock is limited.
This is a perfect time to get some Christmas gifts!
Two days only -mark them in your calendar!
Wednesday 12th November and Thursday 13th November
3:00pm - 5:00pm
Staffroom area just behind the office.
Details will be sent home closer to the date to make online payments so that students can attend and select their own books.
Star Students - Week 1, Term 4, 2025
Name | Class | Award |
Kingston | Class 19 | Bronze |
April | Class 20 | Bronze |
Savannah | Class 20 | Silver |
Sonny | Class 22 | Silver |
Ryan H | Class 24 | Silver |
Raydon | Class 24 | Silver |
Willa | Class 20 | Silver |
Theodore R | Class 20 | Silver |
Artaeaha | Class 18 | Silver |
Stella W | Class 27 | Silver |
Hunter M-R | Class 27 | Silver |
Malachi | Class 21 | Silver |
Jacob | Class 21 | Gold |
Paytenn | Class 13 | Gold |
Harrison B | Class 30 | Gold |
Marcus | Class 30 | Gold |
Dallas | Class 21 | Gold |
Nakaiyan | Class 21 | Gold |
Ty | Class 21 | Gold |
Micah | Class 18 | Gold |
Samuel | Class 37 | Gold |
William D | Class 34 | Gold |
Seraphim | Class 17 | Gold |
Kyrin | Class 17 | Gold |
Matilda | Class 17 | Gold |
Kyle | Class 25 | Gold |
Cameron | Class 25 | Gold |
Tynan | Class 25 | Gold |
Nathan | Class 30 | Gold |
Leon | Class 8 | Gold |
George | Class 8 | Gold |
Elle | Class 33 | Diamond |
Noah T | Class 33 | Diamond |
Tristan | Class 34 | Diamond |
Isaac | Class 34 | Diamond |
Aimee-Lee | Class 34 | Diamond |
Jandamarra | Class 33 | Diamond |