COOKBOOK  INTRODUCTION

In August 1988 the Foundation Principal, Mr Bob Bader, met with about 150 very enthusiastic local parents to begin the ongoing community involvement that has become such a hallmark of our school.  From its early days the whole community was so passionate about our school that the strict rules governing the naming of a school were overturned, changing East Leeming Primary School to Banksia Park Primary School to better reflect our local community.

On 1 February 1989 our school opened with 301 enrolments from Pre Primary to Year 7.  Whilst all of those students have since left the school we have some Foundation Staff (Carol Towie, Jan Fitch, Aggie Hanrahan and David Brown) who have been here right from the beginning and some parents who have continued their involvement with us long after seeing their children graduate from Year 7.

Whilst the school population has fluctuated over the years there is a strong correlation between the Year 7s of 1989 and 2009.  In the inaugural year only six Year 7 students graduated (the smallest ever) and twenty one years later only thirteen Year 7 students will be farewelled from the school (the second lowest number due to the half cohort and change in entry dates for schooling).

As we review twenty one years of Banksia Park Primary School the close partnerships that were formed so long ago continue to be a key feature of our school.  The production of this Celebratory Cook Book is a prime example of that continuing bond between all sections of our school community.  We hope you enjoy these many recipes and, as you prepare them into the future, they remind you of the wonderful years spent here at Banksia Park.

Thank you to all of the children, parents, community and staff who have contributed to our success over the last 21 years.  A special mention to those involved with the P&C, School Council, on staff and the many parents and community members who have committed their time, energy and expertise to make us a school of true excellence.

The provision of the highest quality education for the students who attend Banksia Park Primary School is the prime reason we are all part of the Banksia Park family.  The positive and encouraging interactions between family, community and school are at the heart of a happy and successful educational institution and these are truly typified by our very special Banksia Park Primary School.

We have all laid a wonderful foundation for many years to come…..…

                 Brett Wallington                                            Martin Humphreys
                  P& C President                                                             Principal

November 2009