From School Council

School Council Update – October 2026

School Council met on Thursday 29 October, with discussions covering student achievement, parent contributions and planning for 2027.

Principal’s Report – Student achievement and wellbeing

Congratulations are due to students and staff after a strong performance in NAPLAN results. These are particularly pleasing to see following a year of significant change. 

Council also reviewed the student and parent/carer feedback surveys. Areas identified for continued improvement include student voice and agency, emotional regulation, managing bullying and organisational skills. The school will continue to focus on providing students with meaningful opportunities to contribute to their learning, alongside social and emotional learning programs and practical support.

Voluntary Parent Contributions

Council approved the 2027 voluntary parent contributions which help fund classroom resources, technology and specialist programs, as well as improvements to school facilities.

Donations to the Building, Grounds and Library Funds also make an important contribution to the school. The Grounds Fund covers essential maintenance including lawn mowing, South Oval upkeep, window cleaning, fencing, new plants and sand for the sandpit. The Building Fund will support upkeep of the main building including painting and recarpeting, while the Library Fund supports improvements to resources including, obviously books.

These contributions are voluntary and help the school provide facilities and resources beyond what government funding alone can deliver.

Back-to-School Supplies

COS will remain the recommended supplier for 2027, with free home delivery for orders placed before 1 December. Council also discussed establishing a communal stationery cupboard to reduce waste and support families.

Language Program Review

The school is reviewing its language program, with families soon to be invited to provide feedback through a community survey. This feedback will help inform future decisions about language education at Bell.

Changes to Student Reports

The Department of Education has made changes to requirements for school reports.  These will begin to be reflected in Semester 2 reports and should allow for more meaningful communication between families, students and the school. More information on this will come from the school leadership team soon. 

Outside School Hours Care

TeamKids continues to operate well, with strong attendance and positive feedback about the use of the new basketball court. The school is working closely with Team Kids to make sure it continues to be a positive, helpful service for families during the term and over school holidays. 

Next School Council Meeting: Thursday 26 November 2026.