Principal's

Message

TEACHER APPRECIATION 

It was remiss of me in the last newsletter not to mention how appreciated the teachers felt on World Teachers’ Day. The beautiful lunch you provided was absolutely delicious, and the thoughtful messages from the kids meant so much. Huge thanks to Amanda McConaghy for setting up.

We are incredibly fortunate to have such a dedicated team at South Melbourne Park, and your kindness, respect, and ongoing support play a big role in keeping them here. Thank you for making our staff feel valued.

REMEMBRANCE DAY

On the 11th day of the 11th month at 11am, we paid tribute to our fallen, pausing for a minutes’ silence and sharing the history of Remembrance Day with our children:

The truce to end World War 1 was signed at exactly 11 o'clock in the morning on November 11th, 1918. This memorial day was originally called Armistice Day. Australia and Britain changed the name of Armistice Day to Remembrance Day after the end of the Second World War. The new name was considered more appropriate for a day which would commemorate those who had given their lives in any of the wars, not just those from World War I. 

Every year on Remembrance day we take one minute’s silence at the same time to commemorate those who served as a member of the armed forces during wartime, and their contribution to our peacetime.

ENVIRONMENT AND FACILITIES UPDATE

Terrace

There has  been a delay with installation of the synthetic turf on the terrace. I expect it to be completed over the Summer break. 

Air-conditioning

All air-conditioners are now installed and condenser units covered safely. Bring on the next two warm days. 

Bins

Due to some issues with birds pulling out rubbish and rain weighing down garbage bags, we’ve had to change our bins over to wheelie bins with lids. Our next step is to educate our kids about recycling protocols. 

Kick-off

I’m currently in discussions with Parks Victoria and the Victorian School Building Authority regarding a licensing agreement for the kick-off. At present, the conditions make it impossible for grass to grow, leaving us with either a dust bowl or a mud pit, which I’m sure you’ve noticed when the kids come home!

If negotiations are successful, our plan is to install synthetic turf across a large section of the land, carefully working around the trees. This space will also be available for community use outside school hours.

The project will involve significant costs, so the Environment and Facilities Sub-Committee will focus on applying for grants in Term 1, provided the agreement is finalised. 

Library Shelving

I’m pleased to share that part of your generous library fund donations has been used to install additional shelving on Level One of the Library. This upgrade allows us to display more front-facing books for student borrowing, while also creating a safer buffer between students and the existing railings.

A heartfelt thank you to all the families who contributed to this tax-deductible fund. Your support makes a real difference!

REMINDER FOR PARENT/CARER HELPERS

All parent/carer helpers attending excursions or assisting in classrooms must:

• Sign in at the office
• Provide a valid Working With Children Check (not expired)
• Collect a visitor sticker

If you arrive to help in a classroom without a sticker, staff will ask you to return to the office to complete these steps. Thank you for your cooperation and support in keeping our students safe.

Nicole