Principal's Report

Principal’s Report

At Merri-bek Primary School we have an extremely committed team of professionals who work together to make our school one of the outstanding schools within our local area. The achievements of our students are regularly acknowledged both academically and socially, and this reflects the strength of our teaching team and the supportive partnerships we have with our families. We truly are fortunate to be part of such a caring and connected learning community.

As with all organisations, regardless of the industry or sector, the true measure of success is the ability to remain focused on what matters most. At Merri-bek Primary School, that focus is always our students.

We are fortunate to have a strong Leadership Team, dedicated teachers and a highly engaged school community. Our leadership structure is supported by a thoughtful succession plan and collaborative practices that ensure consistency and strong support across the school. The positive start to the 2026 school year, along with the high level of academic engagement occurring in classrooms, reflects our core philosophy that students are at the centre of everything we do.

School Leaders:

It was a very special moment to see our student leaders lead their first assembly at our recent assembly. Their leadership appointment signifies the important roles they play within our school community.

We look forward to seeing our School Captains, Vice Captains and the wider leadership team demonstrate initiative, responsibility and kindness as they lead by example throughout the year. We know our leaders will represent our school with pride. Congratulations to all our 2026 student leaders.

Meet and Greet Evening:

Our Meet and Greet evening this week was a wonderful opportunity for families and teachers to connect at the beginning of the school year. These early conversations are invaluable in building strong relationships and ensuring teachers gain a deeper understanding of each child as a learner.

When schools and families work together, students feel supported and confident in their learning journey. Research consistently shows that when parents are engaged in their child’s education, students experience stronger outcomes both academically and socially.

International Women’s Day:

On Sunday 8 March, we acknowledged International Women’s Day, a global day celebrating the achievements of women and recognising the work that still needs to be done to achieve gender equality. 

This day encourages us to reflect on the progress that has been made over time. In Australia, women gained the right to vote in 1902, yet many workplace barriers remained for decades. For example, it was not until the 1970s that many women were able to continue working after marriage or having children.

At Merri-bek Primary School we believe it is important for students to learn about fairness, respect and equality. Conversations around these topics help our young people grow into thoughtful citizens who value inclusion and opportunity for all.

Harmony Day:

On Friday 20 March, our school celebrated Harmony Day, a day that recognises and celebrates Australia’s cultural diversity. Harmony Day is an opportunity for our students to learn about inclusion, respect and belonging, and to reflect on the message that everyone belongs.

Merri-bek Primary School is proud to be a diverse and welcoming learning community. Our students come from many different cultural backgrounds, and this diversity enriches our school in so many ways. Through classroom discussions and activities, students will explore the importance of kindness, understanding and celebrating the unique qualities that each person brings to our community.

Students were encouraged to wear something orange, the colour that symbolises Harmony Day and represents respect, diversity and inclusion.

Thank you to our staff, families and students for contributing to the positive culture that makes Merri-bek Primary School such a special place to learn and grow.

I look forward to another fantastic term ahead.

Maria Giordano

Principal

Assistant Principal’s Report

What a jam packed Term 1 we have had.  There have been many wonderful events for all students and families to enjoy this term including; Harmony Day, Community Building Event, Cross Country, Ride2School and many more for everyone to enjoy the opportunity to be a part of our Merri-bek Primary School Community. 

Naplan has now finished for all students, they were all very settled, calm and did a wonderful job of trying their best on the Naplan tests.  Thanks to the teachers and ES staff who supported all students to approach the tests in a composed manner. 

Staff are again enjoying the wonderful opportunity to engage in Professional Learning with Narissa (OzLitTeacher) who supports coaching and development in literacy (See the Literacy report for further details).  Numeracy learning for staff is also being enhanced with Doug Clarke providing wonderful modelling in classes with his associates and Wednesday night this week we were very lucky to have him provide a session on Numeracy skills at home for parents. (See Numeracy report for more Numeracy updates)

Our wonderful School Captains are contributing to the weekly wrap up and what’s on and are supporting in this addition to the school newsletter.  It is excellent to see the opportunities our young leaders have to shine at Merri-bek Primary School.  In the next 2 weeks our 5/6 student leaders will be off to attend the Young Leaders Conference to engage with other student leaders from across Victoria.  It is always a very fun, engaging and successful day. 

Prep students are extremely settled and have developed strong routines to support learning throughout their day.  They are loving school with some saying ‘School is the best,’ ‘I love my teacher,’ ‘I have learnt lots already,’ and ‘Lunch and Recess are so much fun.’ 

We hope you have a wonderful and safe end to the term and holiday break. 

Kind regards 

Bianca Hudson (Assistant Principal), Aarav and Rae (School Captains)