Principal's Report

We’re well into Term 4, and as always, there’s lots happening around the school!

**Grounds and Facilities Update** 

Our garden improvements are continuing, with a focus on better supervision areas and showcasing our “hero plants.” Keep an eye out for changes around the flagpole area soon — we have an exciting new plan underway! 

The middle school toilet block is now complete, with brand-new facilities and a fresh coat of paint. Our 2025 Year 2 and 3 students will be using their creativity and student voice to design and paint the surrounding middle school area next year as part of the Visual Arts program.

**Student Leadership** 

Our Year 5 students recently completed their Leadership Training Day in preparation for Year 6 in 2026. They learned about the leadership positions available and what’s expected of each role. We’ve refined the structure this year to make sure positions are meaningful and purposeful. Applications are being scored using a behaviour rubric, written application, and interview. We look forward to announcing our 2026 leaders in December! 

Our Year 4 students are also preparing for their 2026 Playleader roles. They’ve attended an information session with Mrs. Roney, our THRIVE Coordinator, and will soon submit their written applications. Successful applicants will be announced in November.

**Transitions and Class Planning** 

Our Foundation 2025 team has been working closely with local preschools and early learning centres to support our incoming 2026 Foundation students. Four transition sessions are planned, along with parent information sessions during the transition times. 

Year 6 teachers are also collaborating with secondary schools to ensure smooth handovers. This helps secondary staff prepare appropriate supports and align learning programs. A reminder that Statewide Transition Day is on **Tuesday, December 9**, when our Year 6s will spend the day at their new schools. 

Class teachers have now started building classes for next year. Thank you for submitting friendship lists and essential separation requests. We work hard to create well-balanced classes where every student has at least one nominated friend. This time of year can be exciting but also a little uncertain — framing the transition positively at home helps children feel confident and ready for change.

**Author Visit – Inspiring Inclusivity** 

We recently welcomed Tanae Halyszyn, a former LPPS student and now published author of *Together We Can*, a beautiful book about inclusivity. Tanae spoke with students about staying focused on learning and persevering with their writing, even when it’s challenging. She kindly donated a signed copy of her book to our library.

**Digital Devices in 2026 and Beyond** 

You may have seen recent media coverage about new 2027 policies limiting student device use to 90 minutes a day. The Department will release more information in 2026, but for now, there’s no change to our 2026 BYOD program. Students who have purchased a device can continue to use it as usual, and the school will maintain shared computer banks for classroom use.

**Bullying Prevention and Response** 

You may have also seen new Department messaging around anti-bullying procedures. We’re proud to say our school already meets and exceeds these expectations. We respond to incidents promptly—usually on the same day—record them carefully, and involve parents as needed. Behaviour data is reviewed regularly to identify any patterns so we can provide the right support for students.

**Camps and Time in Lieu** 

Teachers now receive Time in Lieu for out-of-hours work, including camps. While this is a positive recognition of their extra time, the Department only funds a limited portion of these costs. We’re currently reviewing camp options for 2026 to ensure we can continue offering wonderful experiences while staying within budget.

**PFC News and Community Involvement** 

Our Parents & Friends Club (PFC) AGM is coming up soon — a great opportunity to get involved! The PFC does an amazing job running events and raising funds for projects not covered by Department budgets. In 2026, we’re hoping to raise funds to refresh and redevelop some of our playground areas, and we’d love your support. Many hands make light work!

**Stay Connected** 

Please keep an eye on Compass for calendar updates and event notices — it’s our main form of communication. And of course, if you’re ever unsure about anything, our friendly office team is always happy to help.

Thank you for your ongoing support as we head into the final stretch of what’s been another big, exciting year!

Kind regards,

 Deb Haddow, 

Principal

We know life is busy, but there’s real power in community. We’re calling on our local legends to help with a few small projects — things we’d rather not outsource if we can keep it in the neighbourhood!

We’re currently looking for:

A licensed gas plumber for compliance checks

Carpenters for a fencing project

An air conditioning mechanic (for holiday servicing)

A landscaper for garden planning

Green thumbs for light weeding and pruning

Even an hour of your time makes a big difference. If you’re able to help or want more info, please contact the front office — Bluey, our Facilities Manager, will be in touch.

Let’s keep building a strong, connected community — together!

langwarrin.park.ps@education.vic.gov.au