From the Principal
Every now and then, a person comes along who inspires us to be better humans, and for many Australians that person is Neale Daniher. Faced with an MND diagnosis, Neale chose action over words, reminding us that “the mark of a person is not what they say, but what they do.” His determination, generosity and ability to inspire others has helped raise more than $115 million for MND research, demonstrating the extraordinary impact one person can have when they bring others along with them. Vale Nea Daniher.
At Murrumbeena Primary School, we see this spirit reflected in our community. Our students learn not only from what adults say, but from what they see us do. Recently, when a family in our community experienced difficult circumstances, a simple phone call to our Class Reps resulted in a roster of meals being organised and support quickly put into action. It was a powerful reminder that kindness is most meaningful when it is accompanied by action. We are fortunate to belong to a community that consistently steps forward to help others, modelling for our children the values of compassion, generosity and service that make a genuine difference in people's lives.
CARNIVAL UPDATE
On Tuesday, our Class Reps attended a carnival planning update from the School Council Social and Fundraising Team. While the Carnival is not until March 2027, planning is already underway to ensure another successful community event.
To share the workload, each year level or class will be allocated a stall to organise and run. We will also be seeking volunteers with skills in areas such as electrical advice, OHS, procurement and donation sourcing. As the Carnival will be held just six weeks into the new school year, Class Reps and families will work within their current class groupings. Further details will be shared by your Class Reps.
EDUCATION WEEK
Education Week provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate learning and showcase what makes our school such a special place. A highlight was the video created by our School Captains, featuring students sharing what they believe is the best part of our school and what makes it unique.
Throughout the week, students enthusiastically participated in a range of Mathematics activities organised by our Mathematics Professional Learning Team. Lunchtime challenges, family problem-solving tasks and the ever-popular Maths Scavenger Hunt encouraged students to think critically while having fun. Students particularly enjoyed searching the school grounds for puzzles and challenges, with many eagerly submitting their answers for the chance to win a prize. We also welcomed grandparents and special friends to our Prep concert, celebrating learning, connection and community. A big thank you to our Mathematics team for creating such engaging opportunities for students throughout the week.
TRIVIA NIGHT 2026 – LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
The countdown is on for our Hollywood-themed Trivia Night and excitement is building! Tickets sold out in record time, with half snapped up within the first hour, proving this year’s event is set to be bigger, glitzier and more spectacular than ever. Our School Council Social and Fundraising Committee is putting the finishing touches on a red-carpet evening packed with laughs, friendly competition, amazing prizes and plenty of Hollywood glamour. Guests are already planning their show-stopping outfits, with prizes up for grabs for Best Dressed Individual and Group. While tickets may be gone, there’s still an opportunity to be part of the magic. As our biggest fundraiser of the year, we are seeking donations for our silent and live auctions. Whether it’s a holiday stay, experience, voucher, hamper or professional service, every contribution helps make this a night to remember while supporting our school community
JAPANESE VISITORS TO OUR SCHOOL
As an International Baccalaureate school, and one whose students study Japanese language and culture, we are delighted to host a class of Japanese students and 11 teachers as they experience an authentic Australian school. Visits such as these provide valuable opportunities for cultural exchange, allowing students and staff to share knowledge, perspectives and experiences while celebrating the strengths of each school community. Our students will play an important role in welcoming and supporting our visitors, developing their confidence, communication and leadership skills. We look forward to building connections, exchanging ideas and learning from one another through this enriching experience.
CURRICULUM DAY (pupil free) Friday 5 June
Our upcoming Wellbeing, Mental Health & Inclusion Curriculum Day will provide staff with valuable professional learning focused on supporting the wellbeing, engagement and inclusion of all students at MPS.
Throughout the day, staff will explore Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), re-engagement processes, behaviour support, sensory needs and effective responses to highly dysregulated behaviour. Teaching staff will also participate in workshops focused on Tier 2 and Tier 3 supports, referral pathways and practical classroom strategies. The day will highlight our ongoing commitment to creating a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student can thrive.
Keeping Your Contact Details Up to Date
As the year progresses, family contact information can change. Whether you have a new address, updated phone number or different emergency contacts, please take a moment to ensure the details we have on file are current. Accurate information is essential so we can quickly reach parents and carers when needed and ensure you receive important school communications, including emergency SMS notifications.
If a student becomes unwell, is injured, or has not been collected at the end of the day, we will first attempt to contact a parent or carer before calling the nominated emergency contact. If any of your details have changed, please email the school with the updated information. If you are unsure what information we currently hold, our office staff will be happy to check for you.
STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL (SRC)
Our Student Representative Council (SRC) has recently been exploring ways students can demonstrate leadership and encourage positive action to ensure our playground remains a fun, safe and inclusive environment for everyone.
A key focus has been reviewing the spinning piece of equipment in the senior playground (affectionately known as the “spinning thing”). In response to student concerns about safety, SRC representatives have been working with a playground company to investigate alternative equipment that offers a high level of engagement while providing a safer play experience. As the voice of their classes, SRC members will present replacement options to their peers and conduct a student vote to help determine the preferred alternative.
The SRC has also identified the need for greater student responsibility in packing away toys and play equipment after recess and lunch. Representatives are currently seeking ideas from their classmates on practical ways to encourage participation and pride in caring for our shared spaces. We look forward to hearing the students’ suggestions and seeing their ideas translated into positive improvements across the school.
Chellee Plumb