As we reach the end of 2025, it is a pleasure to look back on the many achievements of our school community. This year we strengthened our teaching practices through consistent, evidence-based approaches, including clearer routines and improved literacy instruction. Our students showed strong academic growth, with particularly pleasing gains in writing and across all NAPLAN domains.

We continued to build a positive and connected school culture by reinforcing whole-school expectations and maintaining our “Every Day Counts” focus on attendance. Community events such as the Spring Carnival and the Art Show, Grandparents and Special Visitors Day, sporting events, including swimming and athletic competitions were highlights that brought families together and showcased our strong sense of belonging..

Significant progress was also made in improving our facilities. We secured major maintenance upgrades, redesigned and planted the front garden and entry area; there has been internal painting of classrooms and external painting to buildings one and two. Hayden has planted out many garden beds and has been our handy person extraordinaire - attending to endless jobs around the school.

Our school review this year helped us reflect on our journey and set clear priorities for the future, alongside updates to key policies and ongoing work on refreshing our visual identity and signage.

Looking Back

2025 was a year of growth, connection and renewed clarity. Thank you to our students, staff and families for their support and partnership. Together, we achieved so much and set the foundations for an exciting 2026 ahead.

Volunteer Appreciation

Morning Tea

Our school runs with the help of volunteers, and many people have helped our school in 2025 by attending excursions, donating goods and time, supporting excursions and athletics day, doing chores, listening to students read, supporting community events and fundraisers, organising and selling second hand uniforms - and much, much more!

This Thursday, 11th December, we would like to have a small morning tea in the staffroom to thank our wonderful volunteers.

If you have volunteered in any way (large or small) this year, and you have time to come along to the morning tea, please do so. If you know of someone who has volunteered and may not read this message, please pass this invitation onto them as well.

Farewells

ALICE DELL

Alice joined Carnegie Primary School in 2003 and has contributed across so many areas of our community – from Performing Arts and Visual Arts to teaching in Grade 6, Grade 3 and Prep. She has also led the School Choir and supported pre-service teachers with professionalism, encouragement and care. In recent years, Alice moved into Admissions and Administration, where her organisation and attention to detail became invaluable. She now heads to Carey Grammar to continue her administrative career and enjoy a better work–life balance.

JESS LANGSON

Jess joined Carnegie Primary School in 2018. She has taught Year 6, Year 4 and Art, bringing creativity, energy and a deep commitment to her students. She is known for the meaningful connections she builds with students and families, and for her strong advocacy for inclusion. As our Marrung Lead, she strengthened our whole-school understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, and her leadership of the Discovery team fostered curiosity and innovation. Jess will soon be teaching Year 6 at Lyndhurst Primary School, much closer to home.

We thank both Alice and Jess for their dedication and care, and we wish them every success and happiness in this next chapter

CLAIRE WASHINGTON

Claire Washington accepted a one year contract for 2025 after being a CRT at our school in 2024. She has been instrumental in implementing explicit teaching routines and engagement norms. She has been a wonderful asset to the Grade 5 team learning alongside Amanda and Liana. We wish her every happiness in her new role as a soon to be ‘mum’.

PARIS ARZANAS

Paris has been an Education Support staff member with us since the beginning of 2023, joining CPS from Carnegie Kindergarten. As a former student herself, Paris returned to our school community with a strong connection and genuine commitment to supporting our learners.

Throughout her time with us, Paris has been a valued member of the ES team, working closely with many of our students, particularly in the junior school. Her calm approach, reliability and positive relationships with students have made a meaningful difference in their learning and wellbeing.

Paris will continue working with us in a casual capacity next year, in between travelling to Greece and exploring other parts of the world.

We thank Paris for her contribution to Carnegie Primary School and wish her all the best for her adventures ahead.

AUSTIN DENEYS

Austin joined us this year on a temporary role from Secondary teaching and has decided to return to his previous position for 2026. We wish him all the best.

Wishing you all a safe and joyful holiday season. Here’s to an even more exciting 2026!

Warm Regards,

Karen Roberts

Principal

Respect, Resilience, Curiosity, Integrity

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