South Downs Primary School will officially change its name to Taparra Primary School.

The name Taparra, meaning “Along the Path”, was chosen in collaboration with Kaurna and Narungga man Jack Buckskin to symbolise the school’s path towards inclusion and to recognise the positive change that has taken place throughout the school community.

The new logo, school colours and branding were decided after extensive consultation with the Governing Council, students, families, staff and community. The decision to change the name follows the appointment of the school’s new Principal Caitlin Manser and leadership team in 2022.

Principal of Taparra Primary School Caitlin Manser said that when she started as Principal two years ago the Governing Council discussed multiple times that a new name would provide a reinvigoration for the school.

“My vision for this school has always been to make it a school of choice in the northern suburbs."

“When Jack suggested the Kaurna word “Taparra” which means “along the path”, we knew this represented us and our core values so perfectly, as inclusion is at the forefront of everything we do, especially with an onsite Disability Unit.

“At Taparra Primary School, our vision is that everyone is on the same path together, working together to ensure the best outcomes for our students”, she said.

Taparra Primary School, which has 117 students, continues to strengthen inclusion through the installation of personalised keyword sign boards in each playground area. The sign boards empower students from the Disability Unit to communicate seamlessly in the mainstream yard and encourage an environment that allows all children to engage and interact.

Along with the keyword sign boards, Taparra Primary School offers a range of inclusive training and activities to further educate students on how to effectively communicate with students from the Disability Unit, to strengthen the school’s focus on inclusion.

The name change, updated school branding and new uniforms will officially come into effect at the beginning of 2024.