Principal’s Report

“Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.” — Vincent van Gogh

Reflecting on a wonderful Term 3

As Term 3 draws to a close, it is a lovely opportunity to reflect on what has been an exceptionally busy, positive and memorable term at Monash SDS.

The official opening of our Mini Woolies was undoubtedly one of the term’s greatest highlights. This wonderful learning space is already providing authentic opportunities for students to develop their communication, numeracy, independence, social interaction and real-world work skills.

We also celebrated the opening of our new Primary playground, NAIDOC Week, Science Week, Book Week and Literacy and Numeracy Week. These events brought learning to life through practical, engaging and accessible experiences that allowed every student to participate and experience success. Book Week was particularly colourful, with some fantastic costumes and wonderful entries in our colouring competition.

We also proudly celebrated our School Captain Khushali’s achievement in the Bollywood dance competition at Federation Square.

Alongside these special events, our classrooms have remained focused on each student’s individual learning goals. Every day, our staff create structured, predictable and supportive learning environments that help students build their skills, confidence, communication and independence. Much of this important progress happens through small steps, and every step is worthy of recognition and celebration.

Celebrating our school community

Term 3 also reminded us of the warmth and generosity of the Monash SDS community. Our annual Staff Appreciation Morning Tea, organised by our parent group and generously supported by families, was an extraordinary display of kindness. Our families truly outdid themselves, and our staff felt enormously valued and appreciated.

Our Father’s Day Breakfast was another special occasion, bringing together fathers, grandfathers and other important people in our students’ lives. Thank you to everyone who attended and to the staff and volunteers who helped make the morning such a success.

These events are about much more than celebrations. They strengthen the relationships between students, families and staff that sit at the heart of our school.

Parent/Carer Opinion Survey—final day

Today is the final day to complete the 2026 Parent/Carer Opinion Survey. We have now received a record-breaking 31 responses, representing approximately 16% of our school community. This is our best response to the survey, and I sincerely thank every parent and carer who has taken the time to participate.

We would still love to hear from more families before the survey closes. The more responses we receive, the more confidently we can use the feedback to understand what we are doing well and guide our future planning and improvement priorities. If you have not yet completed the survey, there is still time to have your voice heard today.

Thank you

I extend my sincere thanks to our dedicated staff for the care, skill and commitment they bring to their work each day. I also thank our families for your continued trust, partnership and support throughout the term.

Most importantly, congratulations to our wonderful students. We are extremely proud of the way they have participated, learned, grown and embraced the many opportunities offered throughout Term 3.

I hope all our students, families and staff enjoy a safe, relaxing and well-deserved break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for Term 4 on Monday 5 October.

Lindy Abernethy

Principal

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