Principal's Message
2026 School Theme - Coherence
Dear Westbreen PS Families,
Welcome to 2026!
What a fantastic start to a new year of learning and fun at Westbreen Primary School! I am thrilled to be the new acting principal at WPS. I have received a very warm welcome from everyone in the Westbreen community!
We started last week with two Curriculum Days where all staff completed professional learning and prepared for the coming year. A Westbreen tradition is to have a theme for the year. This year the school theme is: Coherence.
Coherence means all of us, students, families, staff and the Westbreen Primary School community working together to achieve our goals – to provide the very best learning and wellbeing outcomes for our students. This is strongly aligned to our new Strategic Plan that was developed as part of the school review conducted in 2025. The theme coherence emphasises the importance of building collaboration, clarity, consistency and capacity so that we can all bring our best to work together in harmony as a community.
Start Up for Students
We had a wonderful start to the term with our students in Years 1-6 arriving on Thursday. It was great to see how the transition sessions and our school team supported students to know where to go and quickly make connections with their teacher/s and peers for 2026. Each year level has planned a ‘Start Up’ program for their students for the beginning of the term. This program aims to build positive and productive relationships between all class members, to establish classroom expectations, routines and procedures to help the day run smoothly as well as for students to get ready to learn and know themselves as learners. I have been visiting classrooms each day, spending time with different year levels and getting to know the students. It has been great to find out their strengths and interests, hear about their holidays as well as join in on their learning.
Welcome Foundation students and families
On Monday, we welcomed our Foundation students and families for their first day of school. There was much excitement, and a few nerves as the students arrived. It was fantastic to see our expert staff guide all our Foundation students to their new learning spaces and settle into a very successful first day.
Welcome to new staff
We have several new staff joining Team Westbreen in 2026. I would like to welcome:
- Jessica Burns Year 5/6B Classroom teacher
- Lia Montin Music Specialist teacher
- Caitlin Williams 1K Classroom teacher
Sara Sulava Art Specialist teacher
I would also like to extend our collective congratulations to Elisa Pannunzio who has taken a promotional position at Wollert Primary School. Elisa’s many years of contributions to our school community – her commitment, expertise and leadership will be missed by us all at Westbreen Primary School.
Drop off and pick up
A reminder that students are not allowed to cross West Street – if parents/carers are parked on the opposite side of the road, we ask that students and adults use the crossing. Please also avoid U-turns or using driveways (both private and school) to turn around. A final reminder that the carpark is for staff only. We need to maintain this access for emergency vehicles, deliveries, and so that staff can enter and leave the school grounds as required.
Attendance reminder
A message was sent on Xuno last week regarding attendance.
Late arrivals
Students are now considered late if they arrive at school from 9.00am onwards. If your child arrives after this time, they must report to the school office to collect a late pass before going to class. Please note that students who arrive late without a pass will be directed back to the office to obtain one.
School Gates
School gates will be closed at 9.05am each day to support learning and safety across the school. The only exception is on Wednesdays, when gates will remain open for assembly.
These procedures help us maintain accurate attendance records and ensure minimal disruption to learning. We appreciate your support in helping your child arrive at school on time each day.
Regular Attendance
At WPS, we prioritise regular school attendance. We will work with families to ensure students are in class with their peers and teachers and enjoying all the benefits that brings. Attending school every day means experiencing what counts – the learning, friendship, fun and opportunities that can shape your child’s future.
We understand that there are times when your child will need to miss school but to ensure minimal disruption to their education, please consider scheduling family holidays or medical/dental appointments outside of school time. If your child is well enough to attend but is worried about friendships, schoolwork or assessments, please encourage them to come to school. Avoiding school can make these feelings worse and can create a negative pattern of behaviour.
If your child is having difficulty attending school, talk to their teacher or our assistant principal Mr Kenny about getting support.
We know that parents and carers can be juggling challenges daily to get your children to school. If your child must miss school, notify us as soon as possible via Xuno so we can work together to support them.
For more information about the importance of everyday attendance, see Attendance and Missing School. Remember, Every Day Counts.
Free Public Transport for children aged 5 to 17 years old
Did you know that your child can now travel for free on Victorian Public Transport. Click on the following link to find out more! Youth myki | Free travel for children under 18 - Transport Victoria
Update from Merri-bek City Council regarding road and drainage upgrade works along Northumberland Road
We have been advised of works on Fawkner Road to Longview Street and Arndt street to Rhodes Parade. These projects will be delivered in two stages scheduled at different times to minimise disruption. The Fawkner Road works are scheduled for mid-Feb and are expected to take 12 weeks. The Arndt Street works are scheduled for May and are expected to take 22 weeks. If you require more information, please contact the Merri-bek City Council by phone on 9240 2347.
Wishing you a reflective week of learning!
Megan Ganter
Acting Principal
The Victorian Government acknowledges Aboriginal Traditional Owners of Country throughout Victoria and pays respect to their cultures and Elders past, present and emerging.
