Principal's Message

This is my final newsletter as Principal of SMDP, as my last day will be Friday 28th February.

As I reflect on the past eight years, I'm filled with gratitude and immense pride in all we've accomplished together. 

My thirty-seven years in education, including fifteen as a Principal, have led me to this special place. Never before have I felt such a strong sense of belonging within a school community. 

My time here has been defined by a true partnership between school and parents, leadership and staff, and most importantly, staff and students. Every partnership has its challenges and triumphs, but when it's strong, and based on trust and respect, success inevitably follows.

Together, we have:

• Prioritised our students, ensuring they remain at the heart of everything we do, empowering our staff to focus on high-quality learning

• Recruited exceptional teachers dedicated to improving student outcomes

• Achieved significant and sustained growth in our NAPLAN results

• Increased our enrolments without becoming too big and not compromising our close-knit feel

• Completely transformed our learning environment, both inside and out, creating contemporary and inviting spaces

• Managed our school's financial health, ensuring continued investment in our future.

While "thank you" might seem like a simple phrase, I searched for alternatives and found none that truly capture the depth of my appreciation.

As I depart SMDP, I am genuinely thankful.

Thank you for your trust in my leadership and vision.

Thank you to our dedicated PIP group, who have been steadfastly by my side since my very first day.

Thank you to our tireless, loyal staff, who bring such enthusiasm and laughter to our school.

Thank you to Elise, Denise, and the leadership team for their unwavering support and for always making me look good.

Thank you for the privilege of knowing each of your children and for the joy they bring to our school every day.

It is with a heavy heart that I leave. However, I know SMDP will continue to flourish under Elise's leadership, supported by our loyal and passionate leadership team and staff, who are ready to guide the school to even greater success.

Thank you.

Dan Ryan

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. 

Start of Year School BBQ and Picnic

One of our highlights of the year is always our welcoming school BBQ and Picnic. This year it is on Wednesday 26th February. You can bring your own picnic or there are beef/chicken sausages and veggie burgers available for sale. 

The BBQ and Picnic will start at 5:30pm and finish at 7:00pm.

Come and catch up with old friends or make some new ones. Make sure you bring gold coins to purchase the BBQ food.

Everyone is warmly welcome. It will be my opportunity to say my final farewell to the school community as well.  

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.