Our House Cross Country event was a standout this week. A big thank you to Wendy Bos for her exceptional organisation and planning. We also want to express our gratitude to the parent helpers for their support and time. These events wouldn't be possible without your assistance. Congratulations to all DPS students for demonstrating determination in running the course and achieving your personal best. Your pride in representing your house is commendable.

I am continually impressed by the buddies program at DPS and the strong connection between our Year 6 students and their Prep Buddies. This bond was evident at Cross Country, where older students ran alongside their buddies. Our school values foster a deep sense of belonging, and the buddy program effectively nurtures this connection from Prep through to Year 6.

Digital Enrolments for Prep 2025 Now Open!

This year our school will use an online system for new enrolments to Victorian government schools called VicStudents.

To commence online enrolment:

Visit https://students.educationapps.vic.gov.au/s/ to create an account and complete the online application form. Please ensure that all documents required are attached to the application.

A Quick Reference Guide to using the online system is available here. Quick Reference Guide for Parents & Carers

If you know any families who are looking to enrol at our fabulous school, please invite them to contact the office 9842 3373 to book a school tour.

Every Day Counts

At Donvale PS, every day counts regarding your child's learning growth and emotional and social development. Similarly, being late to school significantly impacts your child's learning and mental wellbeing. Students often feel anxious arriving late to school as they miss out on those valuable social interactions before the bell rings with their friends and miss out on necessary teacher instruction. These instructions must be repeated, often resulting in undue stress for your child as they are trying to process instructions whilst dealing with the anxiety of being late.

Please see the link and the info graph below highlighting the importance of regular attendance and arriving on time to school.

Top attendance tips for parents

* Schools want to work in partnership with parents – act early if you have any concerns by contacting your child’s school and asking for advice and support

* Remember that every day counts

* There is no safe number of days for missing school – each day a student misses puts them behind, and can affect their educational outcomes and their social connectedness

* Talk positively about school and the importance of attending every day

* Open and prompt communication with your child’s school about all absences is a good idea

* Avoid making routine medical and dental appointments during the school day or planning family holidays during the term

* Seek help from your school if you are concerned about your child’s attendance and wellbeing. Schools want to work in partnership with parents to support student attendance and wellbeing. Please contact Larissa Vesdrevanis or Michelle Rassias for support 9842 3373.

Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend ahead!

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