Principal's Address

WEEK 6 | TERM 2

PRINCIPAL'S AWARD

Dear Deanside Families,

As we reach the end of Week 6, I would like to take a moment to reflect on what has been an energising few weeks at Deanside. The sense of pride I feel when walking through our school each day, greeting students at the gate, watching them engage in their learning, support one another and demonstrate our values of Excellence, Respect, Responsibility and Care — is something that never fades.

This week, as we observe National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June) and acknowledge National Sorry Day (26 May), I invite our whole community to reflect on the ongoing journey toward reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Across the school, students have been exploring these important themes in their classrooms, and we are proud to be nurturing a generation that understands the importance of respect, understanding and inclusion. We remain committed to continuing our learning and ensuring students develop an appreciation of Aboriginal histories, cultures and perspectives. 

I would also like to address the AEU industrial action that has been occurring throughout Term 2 across Victorian government schools. As many families would be aware, Victorian teachers and principals have been participating in industrial action as part of ongoing negotiations regarding pay and working conditions. I am pleased to share that an in-principle agreement has now been reached between the AEU and the Victorian Government, meaning that the rolling stop-work actions will no longer proceed and school operations will continue as normal.

However, families should be aware that the ban on written comments in Semester 1 student reports remains in place. As a result, reports published in late June will look different from previous years. Grades and learning indicators will still be provided; however, teacher written comments will not be included. I want to reassure families that our commitment to keeping you informed about your child’s learning and progress remains unchanged. Our Student-Led Learning Conferences will continue to provide an important opportunity for students to share and discuss their learning with families, and further details regarding these conferences will be communicated shortly.

Road safety also remains a significant priority for our school community. I ask all families to continue using the Drop and Go zone on Conservatory Drive, ensure vehicles are fully stopped before children exit, and encourage students to use the designated pedestrian crossing.  We all share a responsibility to ensure patience, care and courtesy are demonstrated at all times. Unfortunately, the ongoing disregard for road rules by a small number of drivers is creating considerable safety and traffic concerns for students, families and buses accessing the school. As a result, I have formally requested increased patrols from both Victoria Police and Melton City Council, including the issuing of infringements where required. 

I remain hopeful that, by continuing to work together, we can improve safety and provide the best possible protection for all members of our school community.

Grade 5 Cohort Update

We have now completed a thorough recruitment process to establish a fourth Grade 5 classroom, known as 5D. I am pleased to announce that the classroom teacher for 5D will be Ruzica Bosnjak.

Throughout the week, Ruzica has spent time getting to know students across the Grade 5 cohort and preparing the new learning space, which will be located in Room 9.  All students have now had the opportunity to meet Ruzica and have been informed of any classroom changes.

Understandably, this has been a highly complex process, with careful consideration given to the academic, social and wellbeing needs of all students. We are very pleased with the final classroom structures and look forward to seeing continued growth and success across the cohort for the remainder of the year.

In addition, we have appointed Beth Warne, who will become the teacher of 5A following the unexpected extended leave of Miss Kiri. Beth will commence with the class on Monday 1st June.

We are excited to welcome Beth to our school community and appreciate her support in providing continuity and stability for the students of 5A throughout the remainder of the year.

Sports Field Redevelopment

Following significant redevelopment works to our sports field, I am pleased to announce that the temporary fencing will be removed on Monday 1st June, allowing students to begin accessing this outstanding new facility.

I have no doubt that students will be incredibly excited to make use of the space, and I look forward to seeing the enjoyment and opportunities it will provide during both learning and play.

Shade Sails

Earlier this term, strong winds caused damage to both of the main shade sails covering our playground areas. As a precautionary measure, the school acted immediately to remove the damaged sails to ensure student safety.  I would like to reassure families that we are currently working through the process of replacing these shaded areas as quickly as possible.

Principal Conference

This week, I had the opportunity to join more than 2,800 primary and secondary principals from across Victoria at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre for the annual Principal Conference, held on 28 and 29 May.  The conference provides an important opportunity for school leaders to engage with current educational initiatives, receive updates regarding the future direction of education, and participate in high-quality professional learning focused on leadership, wellbeing and teaching practice.

2027 Prep Enrolments

Prep enrolments for 2027 are now open, and we are already experiencing strong interest from prospective families.

School tours will be conducted throughout Terms 2 and 3 for interested families. Bookings are essential and can be made via the school office on 8080 5444.

Our school values remain central to everything we do. We encourage all members of our community to continue demonstrating Respect, Responsibility, Excellence and Care in all interactions and learning experiences.

Kind regards,

Stuart Telford

Principal