Principal's Report
Welcome to 2026
Welcome to the beginning of the 2026 school year! I hope everyone had an enjoyable and relaxing break. I would like to extend a warm welcome to all of the new families who started at Preston Primary this year. On Monday we welcomed our new Prep students, which was very exciting.
Our Grade One to Six students were happy to be back at school last week and were very excited to catch up with their friends. Many of them had lots of stories to share about their holiday adventures. We have already had lots of our 2025 Grade 6 students come back for a visit. It is always lovely to catch up with them and hear about their secondary school experiences.
Building Works
We are excited to learn that work should be starting soon on the new building at the Junior School. A contractor has been appointed, and we have met with them to discuss various things, including the site setup.
The first thing they will need to do is demolish the play equipment as the space will be needed for the building. It is disappointing that the children won’t have access to play equipment while construction is underway, however there are still lots of other things they can do when they are out in the yard.
The plans also include the demolition of the current Art Room, which will be done during the Term 1 holidays. As of Term 2 Mavra, our art teacher, will hold her Art sessions in the classrooms. Once the Art Room is demolished, the plan is to reinstate the area. This will include installing a new piece of play equipment and garden area.
Our local member of parliament, Nathan Lambert, posted this photo on his social media platforms this week. I will keep you updated and the works proceed.
Beginning of the School Day
At the beginning of the school day the children can go straight to their classroom at any time between 8:45 am and 9:00 am. If they wish to play outside prior to going to their classroom, they must be in their classroom before the second bell rings at 9:00 am.
Please remember the school gates do not open until 8:45 am.
3 Way Conferences
This term we will be having 3 Way Conferences on Wednesday February 25th. These conferences enable teachers and families to catch up early in the year to share relevant and important information.
The conferences will be to:
discuss how your child has settled into their new year this year
- discuss ways parents, children, and teachers can work together to maximise the child’s learning potential in 2026.
Information on booking an appointment will be sent out via Compass next week. If you have more than one child in the school please ensure that you leave sufficient time between interviews to get to the second appointment.
We ask that children do not attend school on Wednesday February 25th, however all children must participate in the conference as they play a vital role in the process.
If you are unable to keep your child at home on the day, we ask that you let their teacher know. We will run an alternate program at the senior school on the day for any students who attend.
Senior School Assembly
Next Monday February 9th we will be holding a Senior School assembly to present our student leaders with their badges. Parents are welcome to attend.
School Policies
We have recently reviewed and updated all of our policies, including the Child Safe Policies. The policies are available for the community to read on our school website. We invite parents to read through the policies and provide any feedback. You can send your feedback to the school email account preston.ps@education.vic.gov.au
I hope everyone has a great 2026 and remember if at any time you are unsure or have a concern about anything that is happening don’t hesitate to contact us. We are always happy to alleviate parent’s concerns.
Regards,
Janet Paterson,
Principal.