Principal's Message

It is that time of year again when I begin my prep interviews for 2022. Each year just before I start my prep interviews, I always investigate other options instead of individual interviews as they take up so much time and effort. I actually even complain to Denise about why I do them!

 

However, as I start my  2022 prep interviews - all 59 of them!,  it dawns on me, why I do them.

 

It’s a really uplifting experience. 

 

It reminds me why I’m in education and it motivates me to be a better leader, team member and person. 

 

Talking to the young parents about their dreams and hopes for their child and trying to have a conversation with these bright eyed 4/5 years old is a rewarding experience. Every family is so keen to share their story and eager to show off their beautiful child and all their interests.  

 

It is also a perfect opportunity for me to promote our school, as I get to talk about how dedicated and hardworking our staff are and how engaged and motivated our students are in their learning. I  give them a snapshot of what our learning looks like at SMDP.

 

One of the questions I always ask is “Why have you chosen SMDP?”

 

The feedback I hear is a reflection of our shared vision. They tell me that they have heard, "it’s a really good school, that there are great teachers and that the students are well behaved.

 

There is also this overwhelming sense of them wanting to belong to something and be connected to their child’s educational journey.

 

Once again, we as a learning community are building together a special place of education. I know, it’s not always perfect, we have our ups and downs, it's hard work but when I experience something like our prep interviews, it makes it all so worth it.

 

Finally, I've told Denise that if I start complaining this time next year about prep interviews to ignore me.

 

Stay safe, stay well, stay positive and continue to be the role model to your child.

 

Dan Ryan

Principal

St Martin de Porres Primary School is committed to creating an environment where the safety, wellbeing, and participation of all children within our care is paramount.

2021 School Closure Days

Listed below are our school closure days for 2021. These are student free days. Staff use these days to further develop their learning and keep informed with current practice and procedures. 

  • Thursday 16th & Friday 17th September - Catholic Identity
  • Monday 1st November - Report  Writing
  • Friday 3rd December - Planning 2022

NOTE: These dates may be subject to change that may be out of our control.