Issue 17 – The Hall Happenings 29 October 2025

Principal’s Messages

It has been a wonderful few weeks across our school, with teachers continuing to engage deeply in their teaching and learning programs and participating in classroom observations this term. These observations help ensure consistency in our pedagogical expectations and bring our Annual Improvement Plan (AIP) to life in every classroom. It has been fantastic to spend so much time in learning spaces, seeing the outstanding efforts of teachers and students as they action the work of our AIP and continue to build momentum each term. The commitment and professionalism of our staff are evident in every lesson, and we are looking forward to an excellent finish to the year.

As we prepare for 2026, we again remind all families to please inform our administration team of any enrolment changes for next year. This includes families who may be moving schools or relocating. We also ask for your support in spreading the word to local area families that enrolments for 2026 are now underway. Early enrolments allow us to plan effective class structures and ensure appropriate staffing for the beginning of the school year, setting all students up for success from day one.

Our Year 5 students are currently preparing their applications for 2026 leadership positions. These important roles develop confidence, teamwork, and pride in representing our school. We thank parents for supporting their children through this process and extend our gratitude to our current 2025 student leaders, who have set an exceptional example of what true leadership looks like within our school community.

This week also marks two important events in our school calendar: Day for Daniel, which we will acknowledge on Thursday, and The Big Blue Table in support of the Beyond Blue Foundation which our staff participated in on Monday. Day for Daniel reminds our students of the importance of personal safety and speaking up. It is also our PBL Be Safe focus for this week. Our participation in the Big Blue Table highlights the power of community and connection in supporting mental health and wellbeing. These events remind us that schools are more than just places of learning—they are places of care, belonging, and shared responsibility. Together, we build learners, leaders, and citizens who make a difference.

Finally, this Friday we celebrate World Teachers’ Day. We take this opportunity to thank our exceptional teachers for their dedication, professionalism, and the difference they make each and every day. Their commitment to improving student learning, building strong relationships, and fostering a love of learning is what makes our school such a special place. We are deeply grateful for all they do.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership in helping us nurture confident learners and kind, capable citizens of the future.

Kind regards,
Mrs Katie Bull
Principal

From The Deputy

Every Day Counts

At our school, we believe that every day counts. That’s why we’re committed to achieving 90% attendance across the school—because regular attendance is one of the most important factors in helping students succeed.

What the Department of Education Says

The Queensland Department of Education requires that all children enrolled in a state school attend every school day unless there is a valid reason, such as illness or a school-approved activity. Parents and caregivers are legally responsible for ensuring their child attends school regularly and must notify the school of any absences within two school days.

The department’s Every Day Counts initiative promotes four key messages:

1. All children should attend school every day.
2. Schools must monitor and support regular attendance.
3. Truanting can place students at risk and affect future opportunities.
4. Attendance is a shared responsibility—between families, schools, and the community.

Why 90% Attendance Matters

Research shows that students who attend school less than 90% of the time are at greater risk of falling behind academically and socially. Missing just one day a fortnight adds up to more than four weeks of lost learning each year!

Our school is working hard to ensure every student reaches the 90% benchmark. This means:

• Attending school at least 9 out of every 10 days.
• Avoiding absences for reasons like birthdays, shopping trips, or minor appointments.
• Making routine appointments outside school hours whenever possible.

How Families Can Help

• Establish strong routines: Set regular bedtimes, prepare uniforms and bags the night before, and speak positively about school.
• Communicate with us: Let us know if your child is absent and why. We’re here to support you.
• Celebrate attendance: Encourage your child to take pride in showing up every day.

Celebrating Success

The class with the highest average weekly attendance will be acknowledged at assembly and will enjoy Zooper Doopers as a celebration for their attendance efforts.

Staying Safe on Electric Scooters:

Electric scooters (or e-scooters) are becoming a popular means of transport for people of all ages. While they can be fun and convenient, it’s important that families understand the rules and responsibilities that come with riding them—especially when it comes to safety and the law.

What Are the Rules in Queensland?

According to the Queensland Government’s official guidelines, e-scooters are classified as personal mobility devices (PMDs). Here are the key rules:

• Age Restrictions: Children under 12 years are not allowed to ride e-scooters. Riders aged 12–15 years must be supervised by an adult. Only those 16 and older may ride independently.
• Helmet Required: Riders must wear a helmet at all times.
  Speed Limits: Maximum 12 km/h on footpaths and shared paths; up to 25 km/h on bike paths and local roads (with speed limits of 50 km/h or less).
• No Passengers: E-scooters are designed for one rider only.
  Where You Can Ride: Footpaths, shared paths, bike paths, and local streets are permitted—unless signage says otherwise.
• Other Safety Rules: Riders must use bells to alert pedestrians, follow road rules (like stopping at red lights), and avoid using mobile phones while riding.

For more details, visit the Queensland Government’s official guidelines

Department of Education Guidance

While there is no blanket ban across all Queensland schools, individual principals have the authority to set policies based on safety concerns. Many high schools have implemented rules such as:

•  No riding on school grounds—students must dismount before entering.
•  Designated parking areas—e-scooters must be stored safely and securely.
•  Compliance with legal standards—non-compliant or modified devices are not allowed.
•  Parental responsibility—parents are expected to ensure their children follow all safety rules.

Whilst these rules are suitable for high schools, it is important to remember that most students in primary school are under twelve years old, and subsequently are not permitted to ride personal mobility devices. Additionally, those between 12-15 require direct adult supervision. As such The Hall State School will be implementing a ban on students using Personal Mobility Devices to get school. Further communications about this matter will follow.

Tips for Families

- Talk to your child about the importance of road safety.
- Make sure their scooter meets legal requirements.
- Supervise younger riders and ensure they wear helmets.
- Encourage respectful riding—especially around pedestrians.

Kind regards,
Mr Cameron Preston
Deputy Principal

Student of the Week

Congratulations to the following students who received Student of the Week awards.

Day for Daniel - Thursday 30th October 2025

The Day for Daniel, a National Day of Action raising awareness of Child Safety, Protection & Prevention Day for Daniel is Australia's largest child safety awareness and education day. Parents, carers, and educators are encouraged to start a conversation with children and young people about personal safety. The following link is available for parents and carers to find resources to encourage discussions about personal safety at home. 

The Hall State School is participating in Day for Daniel on Thursday 30^th of October, and would like students to wear red and donate a gold coin to support The Daniel Morcombe Foundation Inc.

The Daniel Morcombe Foundation Inc. is committed to Keeping Kids Safe. Established by parents Bruce and Denise Morcombe in 2005 after their son Daniel was abducted and murdered in December 2003 while waiting to catch a bus on the Sunshine Coast. The Foundation was established as a lasting legacy to Daniel and now has two main aims; to educate children on how to stay safe in a physical and online environment and to support young victims of crime.

Please support Daniel's legacy in Keeping Kids Safe through the initiatives of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.