Junior School

Welcome to the 2025 school year! 

As we step into a new year filled with fresh opportunities and exciting possibilities, we are delighted to welcome both new and returning families to our College community. This year brings wonderful new beginnings, including the arrival of our new Principal, Mr Bond, whose leadership and vision will guide us into a bright future. We are also thrilled to introduce Miss Monika Kapusi, who joined our teaching team in Year 3 and welcome Mrs Kaye Oldman, who joined our Year 4 team. Both ladies bring great experience, enthusiasm and dedication, and we are blessed to have them working with our students. We look forward to a fantastic year of learning, growth, and community together!

Our Prep students have had a fantastic start to their school journey and have now transitioned to full-time attendance. It has been wonderful to see them adapting so quickly to their new learning environment. At the beginning of the school year, our staff prioritise creating a supportive and collaborative learning community for all students in the Junior School. This is an exciting and important time that lays the foundation for a positive and successful year ahead.

Starting school full-time or heading back to school after the summer break can be exciting but also exhausting for children. Here are some tips to help parents manage their child's tiredness during this transition:

Morning routines

Set up a predictable sequence with visual charts or checklists (brush teeth, get dressed, have breakfast, pack bag). Younger children especially benefit from seeing their tasks. Keep things playful - perhaps use a special morning song or make getting ready a gentle game.

After-school approach

For 6-8 year olds: Allow 30-45 minutes of complete downtime straight after school - quiet play, drawing, or simply lying on the couch.

For 9-12 year olds: Give them a choice in their wind-down activity - some might prefer gentle physical activity like shooting hoops or walking the dog.

Food timing and choices

Pack a substantial morning tea as young children often eat their biggest meal then. Include protein-rich foods like cheese, yoghurt, or boiled eggs. After school, offer filling snacks like banana smoothies, grainy toast with avocado, or wholemeal crackers with dip.

Sleep needs

Ages 6-8: Need 10-11 hours sleep, so aim for a 7:00-8:00pm bedtime

Ages 9-12: Need 9-10 hours, with bedtime around 8:00-9:00pm

Establish a consistent bedtime and wake-up routine. 

Avoid screen time at least an hour before bed to help them wind down.

Homework support

Start homework after proper rest and food. Sit nearby while younger ones work, gradually moving towards more independence with older Junior students. Use a timer for focused 20-minute blocks with short breaks.

Weekend recovery

Keep one day of the weekend fairly quiet for recovery. While it's tempting to pack weekends with activities, tired children need time to reset.

Reminder about Pets on the Property

To ensure the safety and well-being of our students and the wider school community, we kindly remind families that dogs are not permitted on school property during school hours. This policy is in place as part of our commitment to being a ChildSafe organisation, prioritising the safety and comfort of all children. While we understand that many families have beloved pets, not all students feel comfortable around dogs, and unexpected situations can arise. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.

Junior School Investiture Chapel

On Thursday, 6 February, we had the joy of formally inducting our Junior School leaders during our Investiture Chapel. This special occasion recognised our Junior School Captains, Semester 1 Home Group Captains, and Enviro Captains, as well as all Year 6 students, who play a vital role as the senior members of our Junior School. Our guest speaker, Mr Bond, shared words of encouragement, inspiring students in their leadership journey. In their acceptance speeches, our Junior School Captains, Sarah and Noah, reminded us that true leadership is not about a title or a badge but about setting an example through words and actions. Noah also reflected on Proverbs 27:17,

As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.

He encouraged us to remember that each of us has something valuable to offer, and by working together and learning from one another, we can all grow in knowledge and wisdom. He likened our Junior School to a giant puzzle – each person being unique, but we create a beautiful picture when we come together. Congratulations to the following students on their leadership appointments:

Student Leader Conference

It was a privilege to take our 16 Junior School Captains to the Student Leader Conference at Donvale Christian College, where they joined over 300 students from 20 Christian schools across Victoria. Together, they explored the theme Into the World, inspired by Mark 16:15, and reflected on what it means to lead with integrity, honesty, and a servant heart. 

Students were challenged to stand out rather than blend in—an often difficult but vital part of leadership. They also discovered that true leadership isn’t about position but about putting others first. The conference featured inspiring keynote speakers, including Sam Ramsden, podcaster and creator of Silly Stories for Kids, and Justine Flynn, co-founder and director of Thankyou. Both shared how they have used their God-given talents to serve Him and make a meaningful impact. It was an enriching day, and we are excited to see how our student leaders will put these lessons into action throughout the year.

Raising Kids in a Digital World

Together, we share the incredible responsibility of raising and guiding the young people God has enlisted into our care. As we partner in this journey, the College is committed to providing practical support for parents and carers. In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, we're pleased to offer another session of Raising Kids in a Digital World, presented by Martin and Carley McGauran on Thursday, 13 March 2025 at 7.00pm.

Even if you have attended these sessions before, we warmly encourage you to join us again, as Marty and Carley consistently bring fresh perspectives and new insights each year. Save the date for what promises to be an enlightening evening of valuable information to help you navigate the digital world with your children.

Connection

In closing, we look forward to a year filled with growth, discovery, and deep connections. Our College theme of Connection reminds us of Jesus’ powerful words in John 15:5,

I am the vine; you are the branches. Apart from me, you can do nothing. 

Just as a ship needs a strong anchor to remain steady in stormy seas, we must anchor ourselves firmly in God's Word and maintain a daily connection with Him. As Hebrews 6:19 reminds us, 

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.

Like branches drawing life from the vine, our connection to God sustains and empowers us through every challenge and triumph.

Together as a school community, we will support and encourage each other, celebrating both the small victories and significant achievements that await us. May we all grow stronger in our connection with God and with one another as we embark on this new year, becoming like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season.

Psalms 1:1-3

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on His law he meditates day and night.

He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.

Amy Liddle

Head of Junior School