From the (Acting) Principal's Desk
What's making news this fortnight?
Celebrating Harmony Day: A Community United in Inclusion
On Friday, March 21st, our entire school community came together to celebrate Harmony Day—a day that reminds us of the incredible diversity that makes Banmira Specialist School such a special place. Across both campuses, students, families, and staff participated in a range of activities, embracing and appreciating the many cultures that contribute to our school’s vibrant community.
We take great pride in the cultural diversity within our school community. Around 20% of our students identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, and 20% of our families come from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds. Our staff also reflect this rich diversity, with team members from cultures and backgrounds all around the world. This diversity strengthens our school, fostering an inclusive environment where all students feel valued and respected.
Our celebrations were a true reflection of this spirit, with activities designed to immerse students in different cultural experiences. From tasting foods from around the world—including curry, Albanian rice, duck, chow mein, and a classic sausage sizzle—to engaging in sensory activities, face painting, biscuit decorating, and flag-making, there was something for everyone. Storytime in our Yarning Circle provided a meaningful space to share stories and learn from one another, while sports and games encouraged teamwork and connection.
At Banmira Specialist School, inclusion isn’t just something we celebrate on Harmony Day—it is at the heart of who we are every day. We are committed to ensuring that every student feels a sense of belonging and that their identity and culture are valued and respected.
I am incredibly proud of our diverse and inclusive school community, and Harmony Day was a wonderful reminder of the strength we have when we come together. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this celebration such a success!
Jesse Whittaker
Acting Principal
Banmira Specialist School
Last day of Term 1
Next Friday 4th April is the final day of Term 1.
- Early Finish - 2pm dismissal — buses will also run one hour earlier.
School returns for Term 2 on Tuesday 22nd April.
School Council elections and AGM
Our School Council AGM will be held on Monday 31st of March at 6:30pm, this will be followed by our Standard School Council Meeting for March.
If you are thinking about joining School Council, you are welcome to come along to see what it is all about. If you are thinking of nominating for school council, please give me a ring to have a chat about it.
Nomination forms are attached to this newsletter and are available from each campuses main office.
Easter Raffle - donations request!
Banmira Specialist School is seeking donations for our annual Easter Raffle. If you have any goodies to drop off, or are interested in purchasing raffle tickets ($1 each), feel free to pop into the Front Office.
🟠 Junior Campus: 1-19 Parkside Drive, Shepparton
🔵 Senior Campus: 2 Verney Road, Shepparton
Prizes will be drawn on Wednesday 2nd April.
CSEF
Camps, Sports & Excursions Fund (CSEF): The CSEF is an annual payment paid to the school, to be allocated towards camps, sports and/or excursion expenses for the benefit of the eligible student. If you are the holder of a concession card such as a Pension Card or Health Care Card, you may be eligible for CSEF.
The annual CSEF amount per student is as follows:
Primary school student rate: $154 per year
Secondary School student rate: $256 per year
If you believe that you qualify for this payment, please contact the office for further information.
Parents and Carers of Banmira Specialist School
Parents and Carers of Banmira Specialist School Facebook Group is a supportive space for parents and carers of students from both the Junior and Senior Campuses, run by parents and carers.
This Group is designed to connect our school community, providing a place where you can ask questions, share advice, swap therapy ideas, and support one another.
You can also buy, sell, or give away school uniforms, equipment, and other helpful resources.
Our goal is to create a friendly and inclusive environment where we can work together to support our children’s education and well-being.
Click the link here.
