Family Time with  

Madelyn & Alexander

This fortnight we welcome the Van Duiven family to Family Time.

The Van Duiven's enjoy the luxury of living close to school. With their eldest Thomas graduating two years ago, their second youngest commencing Kindergarten and mum Kiri taking on the head role of our school's P&F this year, the Van Duiven family continue to forge a positive connection to JPII.

Family:   Adrian, Kiri, Thomas, Madelyn, Alexander, Sophie and Murphy our dogs

Lives in: Clarendon Vale  

What is your favourite way to spend time with your family?

We love sitting by the fire pit toasting marshmallows 

Number of students attending JPII and their grade:  

Currently 2 - Madelyn in Grade 5 and Alexander in Kindergarten 

Our eldest son Thomas graduated Grade 6 in 2020

What made JPII your school of choice for your children and family?

We really liked that the school was a lot smaller compared to others in the area at the time we enrolled our eldest son Thomas. Growing up in the area John Paul was also known for its community spirit and we wanted to be a part of that.

What has your JPII experience been like for your children/family?

We have really loved being apart of the JPII community over the last 9 years. We have seen so many great things happen over the years and we are excited for what is to come.

What is your child's favourite thing about coming to school?

Madelyn loves to learn but she probably enjoys coming to school to see her friends 

the most.

Alexander always looks forward to every second Thursday when Kindergarten go to Our Place.

Tell us about your new role in P&F

Recently I have been working with Mr Gill and some other parents to reinstate the P&F. I’d love to see the P&F exceed its former glory. The P&F has such a long and rich history in the JPII community and I just want to see that come together again. Everything we do at the end of the day benefits our children. 

Lastly, would you recommend JPII to other families?

We have recommended family and friends to the school. We love that JPII still has a small school feel to it even though it’s growing every year. The teachers know all the kids and all the parents and it has such a warm and welcoming feeling when you walk through the door.