From the Principal 

It has certainly been a busy start to our final term with our Year 4 camp going ahead and our Big Camp Day Out for Year 3. Both camps were well organised, well run and the supervising staff were attentive and supportive to all students in their care. I would like to thank Sandra J, Delia R, Josh W, Amanda D, Daniel B, Susan V, Teresa F and Amelia D for their time and unbelievable enthusiasm. We are now reviewing our camp processes for 2024 and in conjunction with the new school’s agreement. This item has been on the agenda for the next school leadership meeting and with the Consultative team.

OHS and Offsite Evacuation

Last week, the school conducted an offsite evacuation to Wattle Grove. This was part of our emergency management plan and OHS requirements. The entire school undertook an emergency drill which replicated procedures if there was a fire or a need to remove ourselves from the school site. The drill went smoothly and Chief Wardens in each area provided feedback about any congestion or improvements required to ensure the safety of all students and staff in this scenario. 

 Buildings and Grounds

It has been a challenging time for moving forward with projected building works. Ormond PS had an extensive audit of all maintenance and grounds in 2022. The school continues to experience some internal flooding and minor repairs and patch ups are only temporary fixes. The VSBA (Victorian School Building Authority) are looking to resolve this issue – gutters, drains, run-offs, roofing etc. Also, on an incredibly positive note, we have begun work on planning and designing our Astro turf major works. We have been linked to another 3 schools with similar projects and together we have selected the architectural organisation which best suits our needs. The next part of this is for their team to attend onsite and consider what is feasible with funding and designs.

Staffing

In 2024, there will be 14 straight classes across the school. A number of fixed term contracts are currently advertised online, and we are still in the process of securing a Business Manager for 2024, as Jan Cassidy is officially retiring. We also have an opening for a new Learning Specialist and Front Reception staff member. In 2023, these roles were either contract positions or filled internally. The plan is to look at a more long-term staffing profile for OPS. Enrolment numbers remain stable which is a good indication of how the school is perceived in the community. We are also receiving enrolments to commence this term as families move into the area. 

Kerri McLeod

Principal