School Council News

Monday 2 December the school council met for the last time this year. Throughout the year the council’s agenda is focused on the vision, direction and performance of the school, nurturing community voice and participation. Added to this is driving optimal student achievement, pride, confidence and talents. With these objectives in mind, here are a few key meeting notes. 

Safety

Safety is an ongoing key focus. This meeting we again reviewed the challenge of high traffic & pedestrian volume around the Brickwood Hall entrance (corner Montrose & Brickwood). Noting the ‘kiss and go’ zone spans the staff car park entrance. This is a safety challenge that is with the Bayside council for review. Moving the zone closer to Cochrane St is a consideration. In the meantime, more comms will go out providing additional guidance about parking and safely dropping students off.

In terms of school access security, it was noted the preference is always to deliver items, notes etc through the Admin building (rather than the sneaky drop into school bags during class!). It was helpful to hear from the Teachers that it means they can assist ensuring the item is found & used. 

Community

Despite no formal Parent & Carer Committee this year, the fundraising and community events have run well this year – even with a few additional, popular events like the Trivia & Battle of the Bands night. Noting that funds raised are predominantly used to execute the Buildings & Grounds master plan. Here’s a plug to remember to complete the Building survey – it’s your chance to impact the new plan. There is a strong appetite to restart the Committee in the new year, build an even stronger community and deliver a wider variety of events including various interests.

Students

Looking forward to the new year, the Prep cohort orientations end with positive feedback from both kids & parents who all report being very comfortable with what’s ahead. 

The 2025 Grade 6 leadership application process is now complete with 150 enthusiastic Grade 5s opting to participate. Students progressed through many stages, including writing their own applications, anonymous peer review, and shortlisting for interviews conducted by leading Staff & outgoing Leaders. Those that interviewed report how impressive, well spoken & well prepared the applicants were. Around 30 positions will be announced next week. Noting positions are not gendered. Those not successful in securing a role will be directly supported by Leanne and Michael. A key message is that the entire Grade 6 cohort are expected to behave as leaders of our student community.

Finally, a reminder that all families should now have received their ‘School Saving Bonus’ instructions by email from the Department of Education Victoria. Don’t forget to log on to the online system and action for each child.

We are looking forward to seeing everyone at our End of Year concert celebration on Monday 16th. It is always lots of fun and great way to celebrate yet another fantastic year at Elsternwick Primary!

Fiona Bull