Wodonga West Children's Centre

Boys to the Bush - Week 3

Yesterday marked Week 3 in our Boys to the Bush program, and it was another fantastic day filled with learning, teamwork, and new experiences.

We began the morning with a visit to Murphy's Lane for a hot chocolate before heading out to Buster's Farm in Balldale. Upon arrival, the boys got straight to work, helping Buster clean and organise a shed. They worked together exceptionally well, showing responsibility, cooperation, and pride in making the space neat and tidy.

The boys then took on the task of assisting with fencing around the property. Through excellent teamwork and communication, they helped remove approximately one kilometre of fencing. Along the way, they also made some exciting discoveries, including a couple of bones.

After a productive morning, we headed to the Howlong Bakery for a well-earned lunch. The boys enjoyed a pie and a sausage roll. We would like to extend a special thank you to the bakery for generously donating donuts for the group.

Before returning to school, the boys enjoyed a quick play at the local park, giving them time to relax and reflect on the day's activities.

During our reflection session, the boys identified a range of qualities and skills they had demonstrated throughout the day, including teamwork, independence, listening, leadership, resilience, and understanding that positive actions lead to positive outcomes.
It was fantastic to watch these boys work together and support one another throughout the day. As they prepare to move into Year 6 next year, they continue to show the qualities of strong leaders and positive role models. Seeing the growth they have demonstrated through the Boys to the Bush program fills us with confidence that the future of our school is in very capable hands.

Thank you to Buster for welcoming us onto his farm and to the Howlong Bakery for their generosity and support of our students.

A big thanks again to Rocket and Kane the group facilitators from Boys to the Bush. We can't wait for next week.

Bullying No Way Week is in full swing at Wodonga West!

During break time, this awesome group of students took action by moving around the school collecting names and signatures from fellow students and even some staff as we stand united against bullying.

Every name represents a commitment to kindness, respect and inclusion.

Well done to these students for helping create a school where everyone feels safe, valued and supported.

💜 Bullying No Way Week
Small Acts, Big Impact

This week our students are learning what bullying is, what it isn't, and how small everyday acts make a big difference.

What is bullying? - misuse of power in relationships The second of four in the ‘What is bullying?’ series of short anima...

💜 Bullying No Way Week - starting Monday 17 August

Next week our whole school is taking part in Bullying No Way Week. Each morning, classes spend ten minutes together talking about kindness and looking out for each other. This year's theme is Small Acts, Big Impact.

Students will also each draw one small act they can do that would make a big difference. All the drawings go up together on a wall in the gym on Friday!

Friday 21 August, everyone's welcome to wear a touch of purple (socks, a scarf, a ribbon — nothing to buy) to show that bullying is not okay, and that we're kind at Wodonga West.

Feel free to ask your child what small act they did each day.

Many families may witness the after-school meltdown. This is a helpful guide to help prepare your response.

After-school restraint collapse isn’t a child 'acting out'.

It’s the moment their nervous system finally exhales after holding everything in all day long.
And when you understand the timeline of a meltdown, the behaviours suddenly make so much more sense — and so does your response.

Support our school while you shop for your weekly essentials!

Give back to your local schools at Birallee Village Shopping Centre this year! Together, $10,000 in grants will help fund vital projects that support growing minds across the Wodonga community. ✏️🌱

Every vote counts! Visit biralleevillage.com.au/local-give-back-poll to cast your vote for Wodonga Primary School, Wodonga West Primary School or Melrose Primary School. Your say helps decide which projects receive support.

While you’re shopping, upload a receipt showing $20 or more spent until Thursday 30 April and you could win 1 of 5 $100 gift cards! It’s simple - shop, support your neighbourhood and be in the running for a great prize.

Here’s what your vote could help provide:

🌳 Wodonga Primary School: Funding to improve the outdoor area after the recent loss of two school buildings, including the installation of a shade sail and additional landscaping to create a more usable space for students.

🥣 Wodonga West Primary School: Groceries to support their breakfast program, which runs three mornings a week and assists students, particularly children experiencing food insecurity at home.

🏕️ Melrose Primary School: Support for students from economically disadvantaged families to participate in the school camp program, helping them build new skills, confidence and lasting memories.

Show your local pride and make a difference for Wodonga families! Don’t miss out - get involved at Birallee Village Shopping Centre today!