St John's 

School Advisory Council

School Advisory Council Annual General Meeting

The School Advisory Council (SAC) at St John’s Primary School met seven times throughout the year, including its Annual General Meeting in November. These gatherings continue to provide an important forum for connection, collaboration, and shared purpose, supporting the school community and the students we serve. As an advisory body, the SAC strengthens the partnership between parents, the school, the parish, and the wider community. Through constructive dialogue and collective insight, the council works alongside the principal and parish priest to promote the wellbeing and success of every student, fostering an environment where all voices are valued. 

Although the SAC does not hold decision-making authority or engage in the school’s day-to-day operations, its contributions remain vital in guiding the ongoing direction and future of St John’s.

• Verona Gridley – School Principal
• Father Dispin John – Parish Priest (Custodian of Mission)
• Melinda Buscema – Deputy School Principal/RE Leader
• Angela Maclean– Chair, Parent Representative
• Samantha Solomons –  Secretary, Parent Representative (Parishioner)
• Anne Tydein – Parent Representative
• May De Almeida- Parent Representative
• Rob Kruisheer- Parent Representative
• Kate Roberts- Parent Representative 

Some of the topics that were raised and discussed throughout the year included:

• Induction of new members and completing team formation activities ensuring the Terms of Reference and Induction Manual were up-to-date.
• Celebrating our School Production of Cinderella and the Rockin’ Fellas
• Community engagement opportunities throughout the year.
• Communications to ensure families receive information in a timely manner including social media tools.
• Celebrating World Teacher’s Day
• Welcoming local kindergartens into our school for story time and to see what school is like
• Student behaviour expectations and school processes
• Home Learning Policy updated and shared with our community 
• Sharing our ‘Gratitude Column to our community- recognising the courage of our volunteers
• Presentation on Well Being from Tracy Ferrar Well Being Leader
• Presentation on Mathematics from Anna Hendy Maths Leader
• Presentation on Literacy from Nicole Webb Literacy Leader 
• Introduction of Gardening with Jan

• School maintenance and improvement, developing our new Masterplan.
• Marketing and promotion of our school for 2026 Prep enrolments and other year levels.  
• Continued welcomed assistance from new marketing company for updates to our social media platforms
• Website updates including new videos, photos and content
• 2026 school fees review.
• School purchases through the year.

• Staff changes and training.

   

• The latest child safe standards were successfully implemented.  Child Safety is a standing agenda item discussed every meeting and we continued to promote awareness.
• Student wellbeing was also a regular agenda item that drove several initiatives including communication around behaviour management processes and tools the school has in place. 
• Supported the school in reviewing and updating the Behaviour Policy for our students

Firstly, we extend our sincere thanks to all members of the School Advisory Council for their valuable contributions throughout the year. Each member has offered unique insights and experience, and we deeply appreciate the time, dedication, and commitment they have brought to the work of the SAC. It has truly been a team effort, strengthened by the collaborative spirit that has guided our discussions and shaped our direction. Together, we have worked towards our shared goal of supporting the school community and ensuring the best outcomes for our students. Thank you for your continued involvement and support.

Where would we be without our fabulous leadership team, headed by Verona and Melinda? A heartfelt thank you to you both for all that you do for our school. It has been a busy year with a wide range of important topics discussed, and throughout it all, Verona and Melinda have consistently taken the time to listen to the parent voice and offer thoughtful, considered responses. Your dedication to open communication and your commitment to addressing our concerns have been invaluable. We are deeply grateful for your partnership and for the positive impact you continue to make on the St John’s Primary School community. 

As we wrap up this year, we look ahead with enthusiasm to a wonderful 2026 school year. We sincerely appreciate all the feedback, comments, and suggestions we have received from you—the parents and wider St John’s community. Your engagement and support play a vital role in making our school a vibrant and thriving place for students to learn and grow. We look forward to continuing our work together in the year ahead.

Wishing everyone a safe and joyful Christmas season! For those travelling, we hope you enjoy a relaxing break and reach your destinations safely. We look forward to seeing you all in the new year.

“With Hope and Gratitude”Column 

Thankyou to Deirdre Cosgrave, who took up the initiative of putting out the cones at the back gate for school pick-up. It has had a big impact on student safety, encouraging students to walk behind the cones and stopping the cars from coming up to the bollards. 

Thankyou to Helen, Harriet's Mum, for cooking and coordinating the Indian stall along with Fr Dispin for the fete. It is ceratinly one of the most popular stalls.

A special thankyou to Brendan Roberts, Abigail and Connor's dad, for writing the Fete updates for the Parish and School newsletters. They were always humourous and very entertaining. You are a talented writer.

A big thankyou to Leo Biclar, Ava's Dad, who moved the old furniture and then returned to move and unbolt the new furniture. Leo raced home got his drill and trolley on wheels, came back to set up the new passive play equipment for the kids. And thanks to theother parents that also helped, Zuleika, Ava's mum and Aaron parents, Holly and Jerix Zahau. 

Special thanks also to Shohreh Moradi also helped move mulch for 3 days. It was a huge effort and we are very grateful.

What an amazing community of parents and staff we have been blessed with. Thanks for all your efforts!

Angela Maclean

Chairperson and Parent Representative