Hi Solway PS community,

It’s hard to believe that we have reached this point in the school year once again. As we reflect on the year that has been, it has been wonderful to hear the many stories and reflections that capture what another successful year at Solway Primary School has looked like.

On behalf of all staff, I would like to sincerely thank everyone who has supported our learning community throughout 2025. Whether through your involvement in school events, your partnership in supporting student learning, or the many ways you contribute behind the scenes, your support makes a genuine difference.

As we look ahead to 2026, I wish all families a safe and relaxing holiday period. I hope you can spend time with friends and family, enjoy a slower pace where possible, and take the opportunity to rest and recharge. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to school, ready for another exciting and action-packed year ahead.

I would also like to take the time to acknowledge the staff that will not be returning to Solway in 2026 and thank them for their valuable contributions within the Solway PS community and wish them the best of luck in their future endeavours. Miss Annie Bell (1L) appointed to a classroom teacher position at Hawthorn West Primary School and Mrs Kate Nancarrow who has been appointed Principal of Surrey Hills Primary School.

I am happy to share the staffing list and class structure for 2026:

Classroom Teachers

Prep B – Ms Emily Brooks
Prep G – Mr Joshua Guy
1O – Ms Anna O’Gorman / Mrs Tracy Birt
1/2H – Mrs Shelley Huggins / Ms Ryoko Yamaoka
2D – Mr Harley Duncan
2C – Miss Rachel Caine (T1 & T2) / Ms Penelope Lanyon (T3 & T4)
3D – Ms Brooke Danaher
3M – Ms Maddie Muir / Mr Rob Tongue
4F – Mr Josh Fisher
4S – Ms Rebecca Smith
5D – Mrs Nina Dordevic / Ms Kate Anderson
5M – Mr Andrew Mitchell
6C – Mr Tom Chapman
6D – Mrs Emily Dunbar / Mrs Rochelle Airdrie

Specialist teachers

Physical Education – TBC
Japanese – Ms Ryoko Yamaoka (Mr Danny Catalano Term 1)
Performing Arts – Ms Theresa Tremonte
Visual Art – Mrs Erin O’Donnell
Science – Mrs Tracy Birt

Classroom Education Support

Mrs Fiona Barron-Toop
Mrs Tonia Clifton-Mills
Mrs Anastasia Kotsonis

Education Support Staff

Miss Victoria Bonicelli – Business Manager
Mrs Karen O’Neill – Administration & Enrolment
Mrs Louise Pearson – Library

Learning Specialist

Mr Rob Tongue

Principal Class

Mrs Sarah Watkins – Assistant Principal
Mr David Rosser – Principal

What an amazing afternoon and evening it was at our Christmas Concert last week. It was wonderful to see so many members of our Solway community come together to celebrate and support our students. The atmosphere was fantastic, and our students absolutely shone.

A big thank you to the Dads of Solway for running the BBQ, which was a huge hit, especially on such a hot afternoon. The snow cones were also very popular and a welcome treat in the heat, adding to the fun and festive feel of the afternoon. Thank you to the Lauren, Michelle and Kim for your coordination and organisation in the lead up and on the day.

Thank you to Mrs Tremonte for her organisation of the students, and to our teachers for the time and effort they put into helping students learn the songs and dance routines. Events like this don’t happen without a great deal of teamwork, and it was a wonderful way to come together as a community to celebrate the end of the year.

Last night’s Grade 6 Graduation was a special and meaningful occasion for our whole school community. It was wonderful to come together to celebrate our graduating students, reflect on their journey through primary school, and acknowledge the growth, friendships and memories they have made along the way.

Graduation is always a significant milestone, not just for our students, but for their families, teachers and the wider Solway community who have supported them throughout their years at primary school. The warmth in the room was a true reflection of the strong connections that make our school such a special place.

We are incredibly proud of our Grade 6 students and wish them every success as they take this exciting next step into secondary school. They leave Solway with a strong foundation, lasting friendships and the support of a community that will always be cheering them on.

I would like to acknowledge and sincerely thank the parents who served on School Council in 2025. Serving on School Council is a significant commitment, with members attending two meetings each term and contributing to sub-committee work throughout the year. Many balance these responsibilities alongside full-time work and family commitments, generously giving their time to support our school. School Council plays a vital role in the governance and strategic direction of Solway Primary School, and the thoughtful contributions, questions and advocacy from our parent representatives are highly valued. Your support helps ensure our school continues to provide the best possible opportunities for our students.

I would also like to thank and acknowledge the staff members on School Council. Their involvement in meetings and committee work extends well beyond the school day, and their dedication to our community does not go unnoticed.

Finally, have a well-deserved safe break over the summer holidays and we cannot wait to see you all back at school raring to go on the 28th of January for an exciting 2026.

Thank you for your continued support and let’s all keep striving to be our best always.

David Rosser

Diary Dates

School Calendar