Principal's Message

At SMDP, we are committed to ensuring that every day counts. Even as the year draws to a close, our classrooms remain places of focused and engaging learning. Teachers are preparing reports to share student achievement, while students are consolidating their goals and building the skills that will carry them forward. We are determined to provide high-quality learning right up until the very last day.

 Welcoming Our New Prep Students

Over the last two Tuesdays, we have had the joy of welcoming our new Prep students for 2026. It has been so pleasing to see these children happily entering the school, making friends and already showing that they are part of our SMDP family.

Next week, our new Preps will meet their Year 6 buddies — a special tradition at SMDP. This program helps our youngest learners feel supported and connected, while giving our senior students the chance to show leadership and care. We look forward to seeing these friendships grow as the Preps begin their journey with us.

Class Structures in 2026

As our school continues to grow, the way we organise classes naturally changes from year to year. At times, we are able to form straight year levels (Prep, Year 1, Year 2), while in other years we create composite classes (Year 3/4 and Year 5/6). This is a normal and valuable part of your child’s learning journey at SMDP.

Staffing is funded according to the total number of students enrolled, rather than by individual year levels. Because enrolments vary each year, it isn’t always possible to form straight grades. Importantly, research shows there is no difference in student achievement between composite and straight classes. In fact, every class, whether straight or composite, is made up of children with diverse learning needs, interests and strengths. What truly makes the difference is the quality of teaching, alongside student engagement and curiosity.

After thoughtful discussion and careful planning, we will continue with 12 classrooms in 2026. The structure that best supports our growing enrolments is:

• Prep × 2 classes
• Year 1 × 2 classes 
• Year 2 × 2 classes 
• Year 3/4 × 3 classes
• Year 5 × 2 classes
• Year 6 × 1 class

We are confident this structure will provide every child with the support and challenge they need to thrive.

Farewells

As we move towards the end of the year, it is time to say goodbye to staff members who are taking on new adventures.

Olivia Allan has been with us for a year and a half and in that time she has shown remarkable dedication, commitment, hard work and determination to ensure all students can thrive. Her kindness and care have left a lasting impression on our community.

Olivia is now off to live in New York, as her husband has been relocated for work. While she has only been with us a short time, it truly feels like she has become part of the SMDP family. We will miss her dearly and we wish her all the very best in this exciting new chapter.

Looking Ahead

We are currently finalising new staff and their positions for 2026. In our next newsletter, I will be able to announce our leadership team, class teachers, specialists and non-teaching roles for next year. Students will meet their new teachers at our Step Up Transition Day on Wednesday, 10th December.

Thank you for your continued support. It is an honour to lead the SMDP community and together we are building a school where every child can flourish.

Elise Coghlan

Principal

St Martin de Porres Primary School is committed to creating an environment where the safety, well-being, and participation of all children within our care is paramount. 

2025 - School Closure Days

Listed below are our school closure days for 2025. These are student-free days. Staff use these days to develop their learning further and keep informed with current practices and procedures. 

NOTE: These dates may be subject to change that may be outside of our control.