Assistant Principal's Address

WEEK 10 | TERM 1

ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL'S AWARD

Ms Lina

Ms Gavin

Mrs Zappia

Farewell

As many of you know, my time at Deanside is coming to an end, and while I am excited for what lies ahead, it is certainly bittersweet to say goodbye to a community that has meant so much to me.

When I was appointed in 2021, I began the enormous task of building our Learning and Wellbeing frameworks, policies structures and practices completely from the ground up. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved as a team—creating strong foundations that continue to support our students to grow, feel safe, and thrive in their learning.

The greatest privilege of my role has been getting to know our students and being able to provide them with care and respect each day. They continue to inspire me with their resilience, humour, curiosity and kindness. Supporting their learning and wellbeing has been the most meaningful part of my work.

I have also valued the opportunity to help strengthen the connections between our school, our families, and our community. Seeing these relationships grow—where parents feel welcomed, informed, and involved—has been truly rewarding. These partnerships are the heart of a thriving school, and I know they will continue to flourish.

And to our wonderful staff, past and present: thank you for your commitment, trust, and collaboration. Your passion for students and genuine care for one another is what makes this place special. I have learned so much from working with you, and I leave with immense gratitude for the shared work, laughter, and growth we’ve experienced together.

Although I am saying goodbye in an official capacity, I will always hold a deep affection for Deanside and the community we have built. Thank you for making my years here so meaningful.

Wishing you all continued success and every happiness.

Warmly,

Lina

Dear Families,

As the term comes to a close, we want to share some exciting updates about how we support positive behaviour at school. Our goal is to create a safe, respectful, and consistent learning environment for all students. Over the past term, staff have worked together to revise our Behaviour Matrix, Minor and Major behaviours, and Behaviour Response Continuum to make expectations clearer for students, staff, and families.

We encourage you to review these documents with your child over the holidays and discuss what respectful and responsible behaviour looks like in school and beyond.

1. Behaviour Matrix

The Behaviour Matrix categorises behaviours across key areas of school life. It helps students understand what is expected, what is safe, and what is respectful.

✅ Tip for families: Ask your child to give examples of how they have followed these behaviours this term.

2. Minor and Major Behaviours

To help students understand the impact of their actions, behaviours are classified as Minor or Major:

✅ Tip for families: Discuss with your child why some behaviours are considered Major and how they can make better choices.

3. Behaviour Response Continuum

The Behaviour Response Continuum shows how staff respond consistently to student behaviours. It helps students know what to expect and how to correct behaviour:

✅ Tip for families: Ask your child what they would do in different situations and how teachers help them make better choices.

How Families Can Support Over the Holidays

1. Talk about expectations: Use the matrix and examples to discuss safe, respectful behaviours.
2. Roleplay scenarios: Ask “What would you do if…?” to practice problem-solving.
3. Celebrate successes: Encourage your child to reflect on behaviours they managed well this term.

4. Set goals for next term: Discuss one behaviour your child wants to improve.

    

We are grateful for your ongoing support in helping students understand and practice positive behaviours. Together, we can continue to build a school culture where everyone feels safe, respected, and ready to learn.

Regards, 

Bianca Gavin and Racheal Zappia 

Assistant Principals