DOZENS of fresh-faced youngsters walked through the gates of Millicent and district schools for the first time on Tuesday morning as studies resumed for 2019.
It was back-to-school across South Australia for students and staff after six weeks of vacation.
Among the 28 newcomers to Millicent North Primary School was four-year-old Jacen Nockolds who was in the good company of his elder sisters Nahlee (seven) and Bronwyn (six).
Jacen told The South Eastern Times that he was looking forward to play time and being in teacher Lucy Bell’s class with his many friends from Millicent North Kindergarten.
He is one of 251 students at the school which is in the charge of principal Graham Slarks.
He has also welcomed new staff members Emily Watson and Hannah Wilson to his teaching coterie.
“The students will be able to use their playgrounds as well as the upgraded science, technology, engineering and maths facilities which cost $1m,” Mr Slarks said.
“The highlights for first term are sports day and the lunchtime elective program in such areas as tennis, gardening, gym and guitar.”
Education Minister John Gardner also wished all students a smooth start to the school year.
“This is an exciting time of year, especially for those families with a child starting school for the first time or transitioning into high school,” he said.
“Our ambition will provide every child, in every class, in every school and preschool in South Australia with the support they need to best help them fulfil their potential.”
Mr Gardner also took the opportunity to highlight the important role played by his 30,000 teachers and school support officers returning to classrooms.
“I want to thank every one of the educators and support staff across the state working in schools this year – they play a critical role in achieving our ambition to deliver the best education system in Australia,” Mr Gardner said.
Of the 176,000 government school students who attended this week, 13,500 have begun their schooling in reception.
An estimated 17,000 children will start at one of the state’s 404 preschools.
