Farewells

Farewell and Good Luck

SMPS is a dynamic place and the world has evolved over the COVID period making the workplace more fluid. All Victorian schools are experiencing an unprecedented time with staff movement and our school is no different. The list below contains the names of our valued members of staff who will be moving onto other professions and schools. Some have chosen to move closer to home, which is totally understandable. Others are pursuing opportunities outside the bubble of education.

We wish them all well and thank them for their time at our school. They have all made valuable contributions in their own way to the legacy of SMPS. 

Find some messages below from these staff who have chosen to write a little thank you note to our community.

I find it challenging to express my gratitude and share this news with such an extraordinary community that has played a pivotal role in my journey as not only a teacher but a professional. When I began my teaching adventure in 2020, instructing Prep classes over Webex, little did I anticipate the incredible growth that awaited me. Now, at the helm of the remarkable Prep team, I reflect on the profound impact of South Melbourne Primary School.

This community is truly special, and as I announced my next steps to the entire staff, I couldn't help but refer to South Melbourne Primary School as my home. It's a place that embraced me for who I am, constantly pushing me to become the best version of myself—both as a person and as a professional.

As I seize the opportunity to work closer to home in 2024, accepting a classroom role at Sacred Heart Primary Sandringham. Immersing myself in a new teaching environment, I am acutely aware that South Melbourne Primary School will always hold a special place in my heart. It has been a sanctuary of acceptance, growth, and support. Though I embark on this new chapter, I am confident that my journey will lead me back to this community that has been an integral part of my story. 

To everyone who has shown care, love, support, and trust throughout the years, I extend my deepest thanks. It has been a privilege to commence my career as  a teacher alongside such wonderful families, students, and the broader community. It is a see you soon, not a goodbye but thank you for allowing me to be a part of such a special space. 

Mak Bulte

It has been my privilege and joy to be a part of the South Melbourne Primary School community. The time spent here has enriched my professional and personal life in ways I could never have imagined, and for that, I am incredibly grateful.

To all the wonderful students, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your enthusiasm, curiosity, and unwavering determination. Each of you has inspired me daily, and it has been a pleasure to be a part of your educational journey.

To all the families and guardians, thank you for entrusting me with the privilege of educating and nurturing your children. Your support and partnership have been invaluable, and I am truly grateful for the relationships we have built together.

Although I am sad to leave the school, I am excited to embark on a new chapter next year. It is not a goodbye, as I will be around as a casual relief teacher during the first half of the year. I will continue to value my time here at SMPS and I know no matter where I go, my journey will soon bring me back to this extraordinary community.

Sam Kong

It has been an absolute blast and honour to teach Digital Technology this year, but as many families and students already know this will also be my last year at SMPS. I have been lucky enough to purchase a house down on the Mornington Peninsula and will be embarking on a new challenge of teaching high school next year.

 I want to thank the SMPS community for being incredibly kind and supportive over the years. I will take with me many beautiful memories of the past almost 5 years. You will all truly be missed.

Hope Van Orsouw

Other Farewells

At the time of writing, we were unable to finalise the written farewells for the following staff who have made valuable contributions to the SMPS school community. We wish them well in their future endeavours. We are grateful for their efforts.

• Rachel Steele
• Kirsten Brown
• Ben Rodwell
• Ali Ruschitzko
• Reno Mizzi