Boggabri Public School has gone from strength to strength during 2025.
The support for the school and the staff showed as parents, carers and community members gathered for the annual presentation day.
Excited students filed into the hall while keeping an eye out for their family members, giving a big smile and a small wave when they saw them.
The hall was filled to capacity with the crowd spilling out outside, all keen to be part of the day.
Benjamin Carter started his principals report saying: “As another school year comes to a close, we gather here to reflect on all that we’ve experienced, learned and achieved together.
“Today, is a celebration of the journey we’ve taken, the challenges we’ve overcome and the growth we’ve witnessed in each of our students.
“At Boggabri Public School, every decision starts with one question: What is in the best interest of our students? Closely followed by another: How can we best support the community in which we work, live and play?”
He went on to say that these values guide every choice they make, every initiative they undertake and every goal they set.
This aligns powerfully with New Zealand’s national rugby team, The All Blacks’ philosophy of leaving the jersey in a better place.
Mr Carter said, “A school jersey hangs in my office – deliberately.
“Each morning, I see it and remind myself that my role, and our collective responsibility, is to ensure that at the end of each day our school is in a better place than it was the day before.”
“This philosophy extends far beyond sport.
“It is about life. It means contributing positively to every environment you step into.
“It means leaving your classroom tidier than you found it, supporting a friend, choosing kindness, giving your best, and doing small things each day that make the world around you just a little better.”
“I hope that each and every one of you can see the impact of this philosophy in action throughout our school. In our culture, our improvements, our learning and in the way we treat each other.”
“This year, we have lived that philosophy through real and tangible achievements.
“We completed the Community Preschool building upgrades, enabling Nurruby Children’s Services to begin offering preschool education on site from 2026.
“We completed repairs to the main school building, allowing students and staff to finally return to their familiar classrooms.
“We installed the final playground mural, adding colour, creativity and pride to our grounds.
“We established our new MC class for operation from the start of next year.
“And looking toward to 2026, our drainage upgrades and new sports court works are ready to commence.
“Our progress has been strengthened by incredible community partnerships, and today we honour two people whose contributions have enriched our school in remarkable ways.
“Rev Nick and Caroline Stone.
“For eight years, Nick and Caroline have been part of the heart of the St Barnabas Church community and our school.
“Their leadership of weekly scripture sessions, their organisation of the annual Carols by Candlelight, and the countless ways they support our families and students have left a lasting
impact.
“They step in not for recognition, but simply because they care.”
Nick and Caroline were presented with a Boggabri Public School Five Year Service pin.
Mr Carter said while they knew that the pin does not reflect the full eight years they have been here, however, they wanted to acknowledge Nick and Caroline’s effort in the same way that they honour their staff.
Reverend and Mrs Stone have shown unwavering commitment, professionalism and passion.
Whether supporting the students, leading scripture, organising community events or uplifting the school spirit, their contribution has helped shape the positive culture of the school.
Their impact will be felt for many years to come.
A big surprise was in store for Jennifer Smith.
Not very much sneaks pass Mrs Smith, but this presentation caught her by surprise.
Mr Carter called her to the stage and presented her with a certificate for 20 years’ service to the NSW Department of Education and some beautiful flowers.
“Jen is often the first smile families see, the calm voice on the phone, the organiser of almost everything, and the steady support behind our staff and students.
“She makes sure that our school runs smoothly and makes my job easier every single day. Jen your dedication and care has shaped this school, and we are proud to honour your two decades of service.”
The staff, students, parents and carers, and the community were acknowledged prior to the presentation of the many awards for academic achievement and sporting prowess.
The event finished after the announcement of the school captains, Jazmin Lever and Cruze Turner.
Parents, carers, and community members enjoyed a delicious morning tea while the students prepared the stage for their concert.
