I hope everyone enjoyed the school holidays and had a good start to the term. I had a wonderful time in Toronto, Canada, visiting with my family and spending some quality time with my mum. A big thank you to Michelle Rassias for stepping in as Acting Principal in my absence.

I have had the opportunity to check in with teachers and students, and it is pleasing to note that students have been eager to come back to school to reconnect with their friends and teachers. We have many exciting learning opportunities, events, and initiatives ahead of us this term, and I am looking forward to another great term of teaching and learning.

Prep Enrolments for 2025

The new digital enrolment process for Prep enrolments is now open. Please go to our website for

https://www.donvaleps.vic.edu.au/ for detailed information about the process. Additionally, you can contact the office for guidance.

If you know any families who are looking to enrol at our fabulous school please invite them to contact the office to book a school tour.

Navigating conversations with young people about distressing news times.

Wellbeing is front of mind at all times - each other’s and that of students. It was particularly sad to hear of the tragic events which unfolded on a normal Saturday shopping morning in Bondi Junction, along with the seemingly ever constant Ukrainian and escalating Middle East crisis.

Our regional director Karen Money has shared some resources with school leaders to support families navigating conversations with young people about distressing news times. Young people become more attuned to the events of the world, as they connect with the news and social media.

Common advice from experts include

Prepare for the conversation beforehand
Make the time to hold discussions with your child.
Use curiosity to begin the conversation 'how do you feel about...', 'do you have any questions about...'
Listen actively and without judgement.
Answer honestly and reassure them they are safe.
Have dedicated for 'no news' and 'no social media' time to switch off from the events. Engage in other activities together.
Help seek for external services if needed.

Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800

Parent Line Victoria: 13 22 89

Resources for parents/carers

Embark Behavioural Health: How to discuss difficult news
Kids Health: How to talk to your child about the news
Raising Children: Supporting Teens with Distressing News Events

Student Community Initiative: Aranga Library - School Community Donates Books

Pierre and Isabella from 3/4 are avid readers who consume books at a fast rate and are always on the lookout for new reads. This inspired the idea to turn a vintage radio cabinet into a street library in front of their yard. The family is reaching out to the community to not only stock the library but also help themselves to a book or two. Currently, it is fully stocked with books suitable for prep to grade 6. The community has been immensely generous in supplying books by renowned authors such as Enid Blyton, Beatrix Potter, Roald Dahl, and Dr. Seuss.

I would like to applaud Pierre, Isabella and their family for their ingenuity and community mindedness.

Fundraising Events