NEW Kindergarten students have been welcomed to their first year of “big school” at Tea Gardens Public (TGPS).
Nineteen new starters have been enrolled and welcomed into the school’s learning community – a sizable cohort.
Class teacher Mrs Howard, who started her career teaching kindergarten, is well aware of the challenge of bringing so many youngsters into this critical juncture of their lives.
“I’ve really been enjoying my time back teaching Kindergarten in 2025 and 2026, and really feel back at home teaching our newest learners and working alongside our new families,” she said.
“I also maintain close contact with the pre-school and long day care [centre] to make sure our students have the best start.”
The students sound ready for the challenge.
“I like playing with my friends Quinny and Harper, and I love listening to stories, writing and drawing too!” said Violet.
“I love writing and resting,” said Maggie.
“I love the playground, going to the canteen, the stories, playing and drawing,” said Charlie.
“I love playing sports,” said Harper.
“I love when we are allowed to play on the basketball court, we can dance and we can play ‘anywhere’ in the playground,” said Arlo.
“I love playing inside and playing with Holly,” said Brianna.
“Playing with my friends,” said Quinn.
Principal Clemson expressed pride in the school’s ongoing work, and is looking forward to seeing the newest learners thrive over the next seven years of their primary school journey.
“Mrs Tasha Howard leads our Kindergarten class, Gipang (Wild Raspberry), with enthusiasm and dedication as our newest learners transition smoothly into big school’,” Principal Clemson told NOTA.
“This successful start follows the Mini Mulloways transition program held since last July, combined with the strong and ongoing connections we maintain with Amaroo and Tea Gardens Hawks Nest pre-schools, which have greatly supported our students’ readiness and adjustment.”
“I am deeply proud of our continued efforts to provide a positive and enriching learning environment.
“Our school thrives as a place where academic excellence, creativity and personal growth are nurtured, complemented by several programs that enhance our students’ learning.”
Those programs include the 2026 High Potential and Gifted programs, which offer diverse opportunities including Films By, Creative Writing, Public Speaking, Shadow Judging, and opportunities to develop sporting talents through the NSW Primary Schools Representative Sporting Pathway.
The success of these programs was highlighted in the recently collated 2025 end-of-year satisfaction survey results, with 100 percent of respondents noting: “I am happy with the quality of teaching and learning my child receives”.
“These initiatives embody our philosophy to ‘find the potential, develop the talent, and make the difference’, encouraging every student to explore and develop their unique abilities and passions,” Principal Clemson added.
“I look forward to all our students reaching their potential.”
By Thomas O’KEEFE
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