Stories and highlights

Harmony Day at Verona

Harmony Day at Verona was filled with colour, laughter, and togetherness. The theme “Everyone Belongs” came alive as our school community gathered to celebrate the diverse cultures that make up our students and families.

The playground was transformed into a vibrant marketplace of stalls, each one representing the backgrounds and traditions of our students. Families and staff worked together to showcase delicious foods from around the world — from dumplings and dolmades to curries, sweets, and fresh breads. The smell of spices and baking filled the air, inviting everyone to try something new.

But Harmony Day wasn’t just about food. Each stall also highlighted cultural activities, languages, and games. Students learned how to say “hello” in different languages, tried their hand at traditional crafts, and joined in games that children play in other parts of the world. It was wonderful to see students teaching each other, sharing stories, and taking pride in their heritage.

The day finished with music and dancing, reminding us all that while we come from many different places, at Verona we are one community. Harmony Day showed us the strength in our diversity and the importance of kindness, respect, responsibility, safety, and learning together.

Verona Day 2025

Verona Day is one of the highlights of our school year — a time to celebrate our students, staff, families, and the wider community who make Verona such a special place.

This year’s Verona Day began with a whole-school assembly. Students proudly shared performances, artwork, and stories that reflected their learning and achievements. A Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country reminded us of the importance of respecting and honouring Aboriginal culture as the foundation of our community.

After the assembly, families, carers, and visitors explored the school. Our classrooms were open to showcase student projects, and colourful displays lined the halls. Outside, the school grounds were alive with activity. There were stalls full of games, food, and crafts, each one representing the creativity and hard work of our staff and students.

The day was also a chance to recognise milestones. We unveiled new classrooms and learning spaces, reminding everyone that Verona continues to grow and evolve to meet the needs of our students. Staff and students spoke with pride about what Verona means to them — a safe place to learn, connect, and be supported.

Families and carers joined us for a community lunch, where conversations and laughter filled the playground. It was a moment to connect, celebrate achievements, and look forward to the future together.

Verona Day reminded us that our school is more than just classrooms. It is a community built on care, respect, and shared purpose. It is a place where students are encouraged to be kind, respectful, safe, responsible, and lifelong learners.

NAIDOC 2025

This year for NAIDOC Week, our students had the opportunity to connect with Country and deepen their understanding of Aboriginal culture and history.

Students spent the day at Parramatta Lake, joined by Koori Connections, who guided them through learning about the land, its resources, and why it continues to be so important to First Nations people.

Through hands-on experiences, students discovered traditional knowledge and practices. They explored the use of bush medicine, learned about traditional hunting techniques, and heard how important ceremonies were held on Country. Every activity highlighted the deep connections Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have with the land, and the respect passed on through generations.

The day gave our students more than knowledge — it offered them an experience of culture, resilience, and history rooted in our local area. It reminded us all that NAIDOC Week is not only about celebration, but also about learning, respecting, and honouring the world’s oldest living culture.