Luke Dalton – Principal
Nyah District Primary School
THE Foley family, with parents Ray and Kathryn, have been involved at Nyah District Primary School for 17 years.
Their first-born son, Shane, began at the school in 2005 and now, 17 years later, their youngest daughter, Tess, is concluding her primary school education.
When Shane started at NDPS, he entered a caring and nurturing class and was encouraged down the path to a good, studious education from the get-go.
Many opportunities came his way over the years, his experience enriched in myriad ways that only a small school can afford – leadership roles, sporting achievements, firm friends and a great start to education.
Jake, the second in line, started in 2007 and experienced much the same as Shane. His needs were catered for thoroughly and he thrived in many areas, too.
Again, it was the personal attention to detail from the school that propelled him along a path of knowledge, skill and fun.
In 2011, it was Ella’s turn, bright eyed and bushy tailed but hanging on to the apron strings quite firmly.
She was coaxed from the safety of her home life with much love and encouragement from the school. She was afforded every opportunity the boys experienced and more – Ella will always be able to boast about the time she tried out for the state cricket team at the MCG.
Bringing up the rear is Tess, who is the kind of kid that, if given the opportunity, will just assume control of the room.
She has a beautiful natural drive that makes her curious enough to learn and learn, and learn.
So, if knowledge equals power, I think staff might need to watch out for their jobs.
Once again, a small school has been able to curate a path for Tess and provide her with all the skills and knowledge to progress on into high school well equipped.
Mr Foley said he kept “banging on about small schools to anyone who will listen”.
“Here at this school, which is not too big and not too little, we have a place for our kids to develop their skills and confidence, grow their knowledge and their curiosity, to help build them ready for the big wide world that is their future,” he said.
“Our family is forever grateful to all the staff of this school, present and past, as they all play pivotal roles in every child’s development.
“The experience we’ve had with Nyah District Primary School will always be forever positive and we thank you all.”
There is no doubt the Foley family will be missed at the school, but this is a case of farewell but not goodbye as they will forever be welcomed back to the school to share their many celebrations, and who knows, maybe teach the Grade 6 class.
