Welcome back to Term 4. It is hard to believe that we are in the last term of the school year, and it is certainly going to be another busy one with lots of end of year activities and events planned. Check out the save the dates below so you don’t miss any important dates this term.

Staffing Update

This term we have welcomed a new member to our teaching staff.  Ms Gasper has accepted a position at another school, so we welcome Mrs Anne Farrell to our school as the new Art Teacher. I know you will all join with us in welcoming Mrs Farrell to our school.  

Planning 2026

Part of our preparation for 2026 is class structures and placements. This can often be a stressful time for school staff and families. While we are planning class structures and placements it is important that we have as much information as possible to make informed decisions that best meet the needs of our students and school. Firstly, I ask that any families that are not planning on returning to Byford PS in 2026 to please let the office know. This will ensure that we have accurate projected enrolments and will hopefully reduce the risk of having to restructure classes once the school year commences. Secondly, if you have any class placement requests based on the educational needs of your child please also forward these onto me. It is important to note that with over 420 students it may not be possible to meet all requests, but all will be considered. Please email this required information to Byford.PS@education.wa.edu.au and attention it to Jody Harrington. Please have your requests to Ms Harrington by Friday 7^th November.

Faction Captains 2026

Last term our Year 5 students had the opportunity to nominate for School Captains in 2026, and we congratulate Taylor and Tyler for being selected for this role. This term, the focus turns to selecting our Faction Captains for 2026. Any interested Year 5 students are asked to submit a nomination letter to Ms Harrington by Friday 7^th November, this will then be followed by speeches which will take place on Wednesday 12^th November. Good luck to our Year 5 students. The results will be announced at the End of Year Concert.

Social Media Age Restrictions

I am sure you are all aware from December 10 2025, certain social media platforms won't be allowed to let Australian children under 16 create or keep an account.

The Department of Education has provided resources from the eSafety commissioner to share with staff, students and parents. Today, we spoke with our upper primary students about the upcoming restrictions and they had lots of questions. We will continue to answer their questions and provide information and resources.

I would like to share with you the resources for young people and parents/carers so you can help your child and your family prepare for the impending restrictions.

Information for parents
https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents/social-media-age-restrictions

Webinar - Social media age restrictions explained - a guide for parents and carers
https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents/webinars/social-media-age-restrictions-explained-a-guide-for-parents-and-carers

Information for young people
https://www.esafety.gov.au/young-people/social-media-age-restrictions

I hope you find this information useful in supporting your children with these changes.

Save the Date

With so many activities and events coming up this term here is a list of save the dates for your calendar. Keep an eye out in your children’s school bags and Class Dojo for more detailed information about each event. These will be sent home or placed on Class Dojo closer to each event.

31 October – World Teacher’s Day

4 November – Year 7 Orientation Armadale SHS

5 November – Assembly ECE 3

7 November – Disco (P & C)

11 November – Remembrance Day

12 November – Year 6 Faction Captain Speeches 2026

19 November – Assembly Room 4

24 to 28 November – Year 6 Camp

2 December – Kindy Blue 2026 Parent Information Session

3 December – Assembly Room 2

3 December – Dental Screening

4 December – Kindy Yellow 2026 Parent Information Session

4 December – Year 7 Orientation Byford SC

4 December – Rm 9 & 13 Excursion (Browne’s Factory)

5 December – Pre Primary 2026 Parent Information Session

9 December – Kindy Blue Concert

10 December – BPS End of Year Concert

12 December – Kindy Yellow Concert

12 December – P & C Crazy Dress Day

16 December – Semester 2 Reports Emailed Home / Class Lists 2026 Displayed

17 December – Year 6 Graduation

18 December – Year 6 Big Day Out (Final Excursion)

18 December – Last day of School 2025