Principal's Address

Dear Families,

Grandparents Day

We look forward to welcoming Grandparents and Special Friends tomorrow. We appreciate the effort that you are making to attend, with some even arriving from interstate and country Victoria. We also appreciate that it might be a time to reflect upon those who are unable to attend.

It is a time to create special memories with your grandchildren. I have no doubt that you are influential in the lives of the children and your participation will be greatly valued.

I first leant to fish with my grandfather and my grandmother taught me how to knit. The memories have stayed with me and I still think of the strong presence they had in my life as a young person. 

Creating positive memories with children helps them to grow into secure and inquisitive adults.

Parents and Friends Trivia Night

We have a wonderful night planned for Saturday July 26 with approximately 60 people in attendance. I am looking forward to seeing you at the Beaumaris Bowls Club from 7pm.

We thank the P&F Association for their hard work and preparation.

Student Led Conferences

Staff have reported successful Student Led Conferences held in the Bunjil Building last Thursday 16th July. The meeting time was held over 15 minutes and provided an opportunity for students, parents and staff to discuss learning and opportunities for growth. Students were able to proudly showcase their learning, and parents were able to ask questions about the Semester One Reports. Feedback will be sought from the School Advisory Committee at our next meeting.

Principal Awards

At last weeks assembly, two of our Year 4 students were presented with the first Principal Award certificates for 2026 - a huge congratulations to Christian T and Tomi B, who displayed behaviour last week that went above and beyond in kindness.

Parent Engagement Opportunities

There are many measures that determine the success of a school and the students and staff in attendance. One significant influence is achieving a high percentage of parents/carers connected with the school through their child's learning. In 2026, we have created some additional methods for attending, connecting and contributing. 

Please see below for some Term Three opportunities for parents/carers to engage in the learning of your child:

Wednesday July 29 - Family Life Parent Information Session from 7pm (online)

Tuesday August 18 - Cyber Safety Webinar from 7:30pm (online)

September 1 & 2 - Stella Art Show

Tuesday September 15 & 16 - Prep (15th) and Year One (16th) Exhibitions of Learning & Maths afternoon

Weekly assemblies (see the timetable in the newsletter)

TheirCare

TheirCare has made a wonderful start at Stella Maris with a healthy amount of families booking in for sessions. We are very fortunate that Eric (main supervisor) has moved across from Team Kids to TheirCare. Many of our students know Eric, making the transition smoother for everyone. Please see our TheirCare section of the newsletter for an update from Eric.

Website

Last year the school began designing a new website for Stella Maris. We have continued updating information throughout 2027. You will see easier access to our: Podcasts, Instagram, Calendar and Newsletter.

It will also assist in promoting our school to prospective families. They will gain a greater insight into our amazing school.

Child Safety and Compliance

On August 19, Stella Maris will participate in a Compliance Review. This is a system and legal requirement every five years, ensuring that we meet the minimum requirements and Child Safety Standards. Throughout 2026, we have been updating policies and procedures with a focus on creating the safest environment for all members of the school community.

Over the previous two weeks we have: replaced old timber around the playground & on the Year 6 landing, improved downpipes and systematically cleared out gutters. We have also engaged a new Emergency Management Company with new posters on display around the school from this afternoon. Upgrading of our PA system will be occurring next week to improve access to all areas of the school.

Independence

Independence can be defined as, "On a personal level, it refers to self-reliance, autonomy, and the freedom to organize your own life. It is the psychological and practical ability to stand on your own two feet." (Collins Dictionary)

As newborns, we rely entirely upon our parents to be fed and for basic needs. Young infants learn to crawl, then walk and to clothe and feed themselves.

Over many years, I have met a large number of four year-olds preparing to start school the following year. Even at this age, there can be a large difference between their social and emotional development. Some children are able to engage confidently in a conversation while others need some guidance by a trusted adult. Those who have parents who allow them to speak for themselves and only intervene when required, are often thriving. As parents and educators, it is our responsibility to equip the students with the skills to thrive in the world.

Giving children responsibility and allowing them to make mistakes and work through challenges, is critical in their development. As adults, we often want to jump in and solve problems for the children. This can lead lead to a continued reliance, disempowerment  and limit their confidence in dealing with their own mistakes or issues. Of course there are times when a parent/adult needs to intervene for the safety of their children. Knowing when to do this can be challenging. As our children grow older, their independence will increase and it is important to equip them with the skills to cope with the challenges that may occur. 

#CourageAlways

Simon Millar

Principal