Heartfelt grandparent celebrations at Laurieton Public School Camden Haven Camden Haven News by News Of The Area - Modern Media - November 1, 2024 Kiera (middle) with her Nana Shirley from Adelaide (left) and her Nan Bev from Port Macquarie (right). NANS and pops returned to the playground at Laurieton Public School (PS) on Wednesday, 23 October for Grandparents Day. The occasion recognised grandparents and their roles in our lives, with many staff and students labelling it one of the most exciting days of the school year. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au The day’s celebrations began with a concert, showcasing the talented students of Laurieton PS in an array of band, dance, choir and drum performances. Attendees also had the opportunity to support the Year 6 cake stall fundraiser. Grandparents and grandchildren then rotated through various activity stations, each lasting for ten minutes. Stations included memorabilia items, a photo booth, drawing sessions, outdoor games, and a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) activity. Some grandparents travelled significant distances to attend. Shirley Cox, who flew from Adelaide, expressed her joy at being able to witness her granddaughter, Kiera, perform in the dance item. “It was simply wonderful to be invited to this event,” said Shirley. “I absolutely loved it.” Kiera was thrilled to have both her Nan Bev and Nana Shirley at school for the occasion. “I got to dance, draw pictures and show both my Nan Bev and my Nana Shirley around the school which was super exciting,” said Kiera. Gail Ballesty, a retired Laurieton PS teacher, praised the students’ performances during the assembly. Her granddaughters – Emily, Ara and Claire – relished the opportunity to have their Nan witness their dance routine firsthand. Sharon Dempsey highlighted the importance of such events in providing grandparents a glimpse into their grandchildren’s daily school lives. “We get to see what our grandchildren are doing in the classroom and how they are learning,” said Sharon. Since 2011 NSW Grandparents Day has been an initiative under the NSW Ageing Strategy, and is celebrated on the last Sunday of October. “The bond between grandparents and grandchildren is special and should be celebrated year-round, but having a specific day to recognise that connection is a great way of acknowledging their special and meaningful contributions to family and the community,” Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said. By Kim AMBROSE Gail Ballesty, a retired teacher from Laurieton Public School with grandchildren Emily, Ara and Claire. Sharon Dempsey with her grandson George.
