Regularly built into a school principal’s employment contract, is sabbatical leave designed for principals to study, learn, grow and renew. As a leader of a community such as Annesley,  it is my inherent responsibility to learn about the country and culture from the people who first inhabited our land. Growth begins at the end of what we know.

This is why next week, I will be participating in an AIS (Australian Independent Schools) Immersion Program in Gululu Yolngu Wanga Country in East Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. I am challenging myself to learn:

• by listening deeply using my senses – hearing, smelling, touching, tasting & feeling.
• from letting myself ‘be’, rather than ‘do’
• the Yolngu way of learning, letting go of my own cultured way of learning & teaching
• by releasing my culture’s measurement of time (leaving behind my watch, phone, emails, Term 3, Week 5) and letting Country structure flow
• from living without comforts of home
• Country is more than land, rocks, rivers & oceans, it is kinship, ancestry, worldview, language, spirit
• dhalatj manapanmirri – coming together in balance

…and what is yet unknown.

I am deeply grateful for this experience. I look forward to sharing more with you upon my return. In my absence, I leave AJS in safe hands with Sharyn as Deputy Principal and the other members of the Senior Leadership Team.

See you in Week 6!

Jo Rossiter
Principal

Thank you to everyone who participated in our Year 2 and Year 3 Student Led Learning Walks on Wednesday. The children did a wonderful job of sharing their learning in their favourite specialist learning areas.

A reminder, of our Student Led Specialist Learning Walks still to come:

Week 6

Wednesday 26 August

Year 4
8:15am – 8:45am (Before School)

Years 5 & 6
3:45pm – 4:15pm (After School)

Week 8

Wednesday 9 September

Reception
3:45pm – 4:15pm (After School)

Thursday 10 September

Year 1
8:15am – 8:45am (Before School)

Science is all about curiosity, discovery and understanding the world around us. At Annesley students are encouraged to ask questions, make observations and investigate their own ideas, developing the skills and confidence of young scientists. These characteristics have been highlighted by a record number of projects that were entered in the Oliphant Science Awards this year.

An impressive 36 student projects were entered, with judges commenting on the excellent standard of submissions. They highlighted not only the strong scientific thinking demonstrated but also the creativity and originality evident throughout the entries. It is fantastic that that two projects received award prizes and a further four projects were recognised with Highly Commended awards. Congratulations to Aren, Anching, Oliver, Lily, Isabel, Jaime and Isla on their wonderful achievements. It was great to see all participants embracing the challenge of scientific inquiry and innovation.

Today we launched National Science Week with our annual Science Fair, hosted by our Year 6 students. The Science Fair showcases science in action, with students leading a range of small experiments and investigations designed to engage, inspire and entertain.

Every class in the school had the opportunity to visit the Science Fair and participate in the hands-on learning experiences.

The excitement, questioning and problem-solving was evident by all who participated. Science continues to be an important feature of our school, fostering curiosity, exploration and a lifelong love of learning.

On Thursday 13^th August, 17 talented students from Years 5 and 6 proudly represented Annesley at the SAPSASA Statewide Basketball Carnival held at the Wayville State Basketball Centre.

Throughout the day, both teams displayed outstanding teamwork, determination, and respect. Our students competed with enthusiasm and resilience, supporting one another in every game and representing Annesley with pride both on and off the court.

The girls’ team had a fantastic carnival, finishing in an impressive 3^rd place after winning three of their five matches. A wonderful highlight was that every player contributed to the scoreboard, with every member of the team scoring a basket throughout the day. Their teamwork, effort, and positive attitude were exceptional.

Our boys’ team also secured 3^rd place, recording two wins, one draw, and two losses against strong opposition. With several Year 5 students in the team, the boys showed great promise, determination, and skill, competing strongly in every match.

A special thank you to Luke for his fantastic work coaching the boys’ team throughout the day. We also acknowledge Zac for organising the day and coaching the girls’ team.

We are incredibly proud of all our students for the way they represented Annesley. Their effort, respect, encouragement of teammates, and willingness to challenge themselves made it a memorable and successful day of basketball.

Congratulations to both teams on their excellent 3^rd place finishes. Go Team Annesley!

Year 3 Discover the Wild at Monarto Zoo

Being from South Africa, I have always felt a deep connection to the country’s incredible wildlife, and I miss seeing these animals in their natural surroundings. This made our Year 3 excursion to Monarto Zoo an especially meaningful experience for me. Sharing the excitement of discovering wild animals with the students was truly special.

Before visiting the animals, students spent valuable time in nature building cubbies in teams. They communicated, solved problems and worked together to create imaginative shelters while developing a greater appreciation for the outdoors.

The day reflected our Annesley values beautifully. Students showed connection by working as teams and engaging with nature. They used wisdom as they observed the animals and listened to what they were learning. They demonstrated kindness by supporting one another and caring for the environment, and bravery by stepping into new experiences. Above all, we felt gratitude for the opportunity to spend time outdoors and learn about the animals, and the day was filled with joy.

Our excursion was a memorable celebration of teamwork, curiosity and respect for the natural world.

This November marks a truly special milestone for our Annesley community, as our much-loved Gillingham Hall celebrates its 100th anniversary.

For a century, the Hall has been at the heart of countless memories, bringing together generations of scholars, families, and community members for learning, celebration, and connection. As we reflect on its rich history, we are excited to also look ahead and celebrate everything it continues to represent.

We warmly invite all past scholars and members of the community to be part of this significant occasion. Please save the evening of 7th November 2026 and join us in honouring 100 years of Gillingham Hall.

Further details about the celebration will be shared soon.

Last week, the Base 5 Quest journey took our students to Mountain Bike Park, Craigburn Farm. Every student gave their all to help build confidence and everyone challenged themselves at their own pace.

Our students demonstrated bravery as they tackled the trails and pushed through challenges. Equally impressive was the kindness shown throughout the day, with students encouraging, supporting, and cheering each other on. The positive attitude and teamwork displayed by everyone made the experience enjoyable and rewarding for all.

Well done to everyone for embracing the adventure and helping create such a supportive learning environment!

We are pleased to be able to provide new Annesley sports Umbrellas. Keep dry or stay in the shade in style with this top-quality umbrella perfect for school drop-offs, weekend sport and everything in between.

Limited stock available, order yours through the online uniform form on School Stream, or visit the Front Office next time you are at school!

There’s something special about seeing what we can achieve when our community comes together.

The Annesley Parents Association is excited to share that we’ve already raised over $30 through the Drakes Community Dollars Program—and we’re only just getting started!

Here’s how you can help: 

1. Download the myDrakes app.
2. Select Annesley Parents Association as your Community Dollars partner.
3. 
Scan the app every time you shop at Drakes.

That’s it! A small contribution from every shop is donated to the APA at no extra cost to you, helping fund initiatives that directly benefit our school community.

If every Annesley family selected the APA, the impact would be significant.

It’s one of the easiest ways to support our school—simply by doing your regular grocery shopping.

Thank you for helping us build an even stronger Annesley community. Every shop makes a difference!

Annesley Parents Association 

At Annesley, there are designated toilets for student use and other toilets available for adults to use while onsite.

The designated and clearly labelled adult toilet facilities are located:

• In the Gym
• Courtyard
• Opposite the Front Office.

Annesley staff are always happy to assist if you need directions.

This expectation supports our commitment to maintaining a safe, child‑focused environment for all students and visitors.

A reminder to families

If you have younger children for whom you have not yet submitted an application form, applications can be submitted via the following link: Enrolment

An application must be submitted for a child to be considered for a place. Places are subject to availability and are not automatically guaranteed for siblings, so early application is strongly recommended.

If you are unsure whether you have already submitted an application and would like to check, or if you have any other questions, please contact Laura in the Student Enrolments Office on 8422 2211 or email enrolments@annesley.sa.edu.au.

Through recent engagement with the Unley Council, they have confirmed guidelines for our community to follow when using the Kiss & Drop zone. Drivers must remain within 3 metres of their car in this zone and can only remain stopped for 2 minutes. If a driver moves further than 3 metres away, the 2-minute period no longer applies. We have had regular inspections from Unley Council of this zone recently. We ask our community members to adhere to these guidelines to avoid getting fined, and to keep our Kiss & Drop zone functioning effectively.

A reminder to Primary families that supervision for our students is provided from 8.30am on school grounds. Prior to this time, students are not to be left onsite without an adult family member. Our Before School OSHC Service is available to families requiring early supervision from 7.30am to 8.30am. Similarly, staff supervision is provided after school until 3.45pm. OSHC is available to families needing care after school until 6pm.

From 4.30pm each day, OSHC requires exclusive access to the eastern playspace (including the soccer field and Adventure playground). After this time, families are asked to move to the western end, utilising the Court and Daphne Gum playground.

Calling all families to donate gently used Annesley uniforms to Unify, our student-led pop-up shop for second-hand uniforms. Your contribution not only promotes sustainability but also helps support many of the school’s initiatives. Your ongoing participation is greatly appreciated and contributes to the continued success of our school community. Donations can be left in the Unify tub located in the Front Office.

Our Bouncing Bean Café and Unify Second-Hand store are open at the following times each week:

Before School: 8.15am – 9am, Everyday
Morning Break: 11.05am – 11.45am, Everyday
Tuesday & Wednesday Afternoons: 3pm – 4pm

We have a busy and exciting Term ahead at Annesley, with a range of learning experiences, excursions, and community celebrations planned for our students. Please see the key dates below and add them to your calendar.

August

• Monday 17th – Friday 21st – Science Week
• Monday 17th – Year 3 – 6: Author Visit – Kate Foster
• Tuesday 18th – Year 1 – Central Markets Excursion
• Tuesday 18th – Year 6 Art Gallery & Museum Excursion
• Tuesday 18th – ICAS Assessment – Science
• Tuesday 18th (6pm-8pm) – Dare to Become Parenting Series: Amber Owen – Mindful Pathways Conflict and your child
• Wednesday 19th – ICAS Assessment – Spelling Bee
• Thursday 20th – All Schools Mixed Touch Football SAPSASA Carnival
• Thursday 20th – SAPSASA ASE District Athletics Carnival
• Thursday 20th – Year 3 – Adelaide Zoo
• Friday 21st – Year 5 Quest – Bike Ride or Food on the Table
• Monday 24th – Friday 28th – Book Week – Early Years Storybook Trail
• Monday 24th (9am – 9:30am) – Book Week Parade (Primary Classes)
• Tuesday 25th – ICAS Assessment
• Wednesday 26th – Online Author visit – Andy Lee (Rec – Year 2)
• Wednesday 26th – Student-Led Specialist Learning Walks ( Year 4, 5 &6)
• Thursday 27th – Friday 28th – Scholastic Book Fair
• Thursday 27th – Friday 28th – Online Author visit – Matt Stanton (Year 4 – 6)
• Thursday 27th – Friday 28th – Year 3 – Adelaide Zoo Excursion
• Friday 28th – Online author/illustrator visit – Jason Pamment (Year 3, 4 and 6)
• Friday 28th – Reception – Year 2: Illustrator Visit – Mandy Foot
• Friday 28th – Year 5 Quest – Mt Lofty
• Monday 31st – Thursday 10th Sept– Henny Penny Hatching Program
• Monday 31st – Tuesday 1st Sep – Scholastic Book Fair
• Monday 31st – Year 5 Quest – Trangia Cooking

September

• Tuesday 1st  – Thursday 3rd  – School Photos
• Thursday 3rd – Year 3 – Adelaide Zoo Excursion
• Friday 4th – Father’s Day Event
• Friday 4th – Year 5 Quest – Glenthorne National Park
• Tuesday 8th – Track & Field Metro State Championships
• Tuesday 8th – Year 2 Grandparents and Special Friends Day
• Wednesday 9th – Maths Explorer and Maths Olympiad
• Wednesday 9th – Year 2 Production – Primary Classes
• Wednesday 9th – Year 1 Grandparents and Special Friends Day
• Wednesday 9th –  Student-Led Specialist Learning Walks (Reception)
• Thursday 10th –  Student-Led Specialist Learning Walks (Year 1)
• Thursday 10th – Year 3 – Adelaide Zoo Excursion
• Friday 11th – Pupil Free Day
• Tuesday 15th – Friday 18th – Year 5 Camp
• Monday 21st – Tuesday 22nd – Year 6 PYP Exhibition
• Monday 21st – ELC Celebration of Learning
• Tuesday 22nd – ELC Celebration of Learning
• Tuesday 22nd – PYP Exhibition and Road Trip Discussion
• Wednesday 23rd – Hot Shots Tennis Carnival Year 3/4s
• Thursday 24th – ELC Celebration of Learning
• Thursday 24th – Year 4 Celebration of Learning – Wax Museums
• Friday 25th – End of Term

If you require further information about upcoming events at Annesley, please contact enquiries@annesley.sa.edu.au

Our website now has a volunteering page under the Community Tab that outlines clearly the process we require our family members to follow to volunteer at Annesley. This process meets legislative requirements in order to keep our children and volunteers safe at Annesley. See more here.