On Friday 30^th April Campbell Primary School staff and students came together for a whole school commemorative assembly in honour of the ANZAC tradition. It was a solemn and respectful assembly following the same order of service as a traditional dawn service. Students were respectful and reflective taking the opportunity to learn more about the traditions of the ANZACs while also paying tribute to current and former Australian and New Zealand Defence Force members, particularly those from within our own CPS community. Solely student driven, the presenters and those laying commemorative items all volunteered to assist with the assembly. Several of these students worked during their own time to write poetry or pieces on why ANZAC Day was significant to them to share with us all. We are incredibly proud of the efforts of all of the students who represented us so beautifully. We would also like to acknowledge the students who created beautiful artwork that was used to decorate the entrance to the Hall. We extend an extra special thanks to the members of the Australian Federation Guard who provided the catafalque party and also CPL Lingard our bugler from the Royal Military College Band. It is a delight to have several CPS parents representing us in their service roles on the stage on the day and serves to highlight the depth of connection that CPS has with the local military community. Though we are still limited in the number of parents that are able to attend assemblies we are grateful that the families of student presenters, many of them active service members, were able to join us as well.

A quick reminder for those who posted in in 2021, and also information for those who may be posting out for 2022, about the Defence Community Organisation (DCO) Education Assistance program. The programs aim is to help families address education concerns after a Defence required relocation. You can read more about the program, how to apply and eligibility requirements here. For those that may have accessed the tutoring reimbursement before there has been a few recent changes to the application process. This includes a requirement for additional documentation including a copy of the most recent report card from the previous school as well as a report OR letter supporting the application from the new school. As reports are not due until mid-year please either contact myself on Karyn.heitmann@ed.act.edu.au or your teacher directly should you be proceeding with an application and we can assist with the letter of support.

Speaking of DCO, on 1st July Defence Community Organisation (DCO) will change their name to Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS). The new name reflects their vision, what they do and who they do it for. While their name is changing, there will be no changes to the services or programs offered to ADF members and their families. Find out more about the name change https://www.defence.gov.au/dco/.

To find out more about family and community events as well as support available you can follow them on facebook or check out their website https://www.defence.gov.au/dco/ . I am always available if you have any questions or concerns regarding support for ADF families here in Canberra.

Karyn Penney