Principal Report

Welcome back to Term Four HPS community. I hope all of our students, families and staff enjoyed a well-deserved break and had the opportunity to rest and recharge. We have another exciting and productive term ahead, filled with valuable learning opportunities, events and activities for our students. As we enter the final term of the school year, we remain focused on maintaining high expectations, strengthening student learning and wellbeing and ensuring every student continues to make progress in all areas. I look forward to working in partnership with our staff and families to finish the year positively and celebrate the many achievements of our students and school community.

Welcome to Highvale

This term we have had many new families begin their journey at HPS. Welcome to HPS to the following students: Zara P 5E, Daniel P 1P, Irene P 3A and Henry P 5S. We are sure you will love being a part of the Highvale community. Please reach out if there is anything we can do to assist with your transition into our wonderful school.

Happy Birthday 

Happy Birthday to the following students who will celebrate their special day throughout October: Anesh S 5E, Zexin D 3L, Khloe L 5S, Lin R 6S, Prachi R 3C, Hayley C 3A, Kaylee S 3A, Aadhya R 4G, Rhys C 2L, Liya F 3C, Michael P 6T, Jefferson C 3A, Michelle P 6D, Lydia Y 1P, Riya P 2M, Aurora C 2M, Youli Z 5E, Emily L 5M, Louie S PFY, Zara P 5E, Mason X PA, Joshua L 6S, Rhys Y 1P, Lexie U 3L, Sara LI 5M, Freya H 2L, Amaya D 2L, Leila W 3L, Angela L 4C, Shanaya S 5M, Oneli S 5M, Yun-hai L 3A, Kai P 5E, Joshua W PFY, Rovin S 1P, Thomas Y 2L, Alex Z 4C, Diana H 4C, Charlie Z 1P, Rihana V 2L, Phoenix J 3A, Fiora J 1GC, Hannah Y 1P, Kiaan D 3C and Keitarou Yin S 6T. We hope you all have a terrific birthday. 

Attendance

At Highvale Primary School we firmly believe that attending school every day plays a crucial role in shaping a child's educational journey. Regular attendance allows students to fully engage in classroom activities, discussions, and hands-on learning experiences. It provides them with the opportunity to grasp new concepts, ask questions and collaborate with their peers. Consistent attendance helps build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills, enabling children to excel academically. This term, we will be reinforcing the importance of attending school every day. 

Congratulations to the 321 students who have achieved 100% attendance in October so far. Some of these students include: Ghalt B PA, Kelissa C PA, Alex C PFY, Norah G PFY, Faraz G IGC, Natalie H 1GC, Ace H 1P, Rovin S 1P, Yuri P 2L, Shrigna S 2L, Jana J 2M, Twisha T 2M, Gretel L 3C, Markus H 3C, Kezia C 3A, Jenil P 3A, Aashna P 3L, Jasper S 3L, Hana Z 4P, Neymi O 4P, Anjali S 4P, Hana Z 4P, Leo W 4G, Aadhya R 4G, Angela L 4C, Akith G 4C, Ethan C 5E, Kaiyan D 5E, Megan C 5M, Sidarrth G 5M, Jasmine J 5S, Mirabelle L 5S, Grace L 6D, Alaistair W 6D, Chole L 6T, Chong O 6T, Zoe L 6S and Aaron L 6S.

Remember: It is not ok to be away!

Student Supervision Before and After School

A reminder to all families that student supervision at HPS begins at 8:45am and students should not arrive at school before this time unless they are attending a supervised program such as TheirCare, Breakfast Club or Run Club. At the end of the school day, the bell rings at 3:30pm, and students who walk or ride home are expected to leave the school grounds promptly. Please note that there is no supervision after 3:45pm. We have recently noticed some students remaining at school after dismissal to play four square or use the playground equipment, including students who are expected to walk or ride home. This is a safety concern, as these students are no longer under staff supervision. We ask parents and carers to reinforce these expectations with their children and ensure that appropriate arrangements are in place for their journey home. Your support in helping us maintain a safe environment for all students is greatly appreciated.

Prep Enrolments 2027

We are currently accepting enrolment applications for Prep (foundation year) 2027 and have 41 students currently enrolled, although we are expecting quite a few more. I am continuing to conduct weekly school tours for prospective families where I can showcase the school’s programs, facilities and values. If you are aware of families who may be interested in joining the HPS school community, they are encouraged to contact the school office for further information. 

Prep 2027 Transition Program

Our Prep 2027 Transition Program is progressing extremely well, with our newest students continuing to become familiar with Highvale Primary School, their future teachers and classmates. The sessions provide valuable opportunities for our future Preps to explore the school environment, participate in learning activities and begin building friendships ahead of starting school next year.

Our remaining transition sessions will be held on the following dates:

• Friday 16th October
• Friday 23rd October

Our final session will take place on Friday 30 October, when students will have the opportunity to meet their Prep 2027 teacher and classmates. The Transition Program plays an important role in building confidence, establishing relationships and fostering a strong sense of belonging within our school community. It has been wonderful to see our future Preps becoming increasingly comfortable and enthusiastic about starting school, and we look forward to welcoming them and their families to Highvale Primary School in 2027. 

Transition information for students currently in Prep-Year Five will be released shortly.

Planning for 2027

As we continue planning for the 2027 school year, we sincerely hope that all HPS families will be continuing their journey with us at Highvale Primary School. However, we understand that circumstances can change and families may need to move schools due to relocation or other personal reasons. If your family is considering leaving HPS at the end of 2026, we kindly ask that you notify the school as soon as possible. This information is invaluable in helping us plan class structures, staffing and student placements for next year. Thank you for your support and for helping us prepare for a smooth and successful start to 2027.

Toilet Upgrade

The student toilet upgrade has now been completed, with the epoxy flake flooring installed over the holiday break. Earlier in the year, all student toilets and urinals were replaced, and the recently completed flooring provides the finishing touch to these improvements. These upgrades form part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining and enhancing our school facilities, ensuring our students have access to clean, safe and well-maintained amenities.

Work at the Victorian state election 

The Victorian state election will be held on Saturday 28th November 2026. The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) is looking for people to staff voting centres in paid roles. Roles suit a range of skills, experience and availability. Some involve several weeks of work before or after election day. Others are just for election day. Working at an election is a chance to: 

• earn extra income 
• gain valuable work experience 
• meet new people 
• support your community 
• play a role in Victoria's democracy.  

The VEC provides training and support. Hear more about the experience from casual staff at youtube.com/electionsvic  Find out more and register at vec.vic.gov.au/electionwork 

To help the VEC place you at a local voting centre, please take 2 extra steps when you apply: 

1. write our school's name in the free-text section of your application 
2. email  workingatelections@vec.vic.gov.au with our school's name to confirm you've registered. 

State Election Sausage Sizzle – Parent Volunteers Needed!

We are seeking parent volunteers to assist with our Sausage Sizzle onsite at HPS on Saturday 28 November, from 8:00am to 6:00pm. This fundraiser will support important school upgrades, including new drinking taps, senior playground improvements, resurfacing the turning circle and upgrading the back gate. Even an hour or two of your time would make a huge difference. If you can help, please provide your availability to the front office. Thank you for supporting our school community!

Grandparents and Loved Ones Afternoon - Monday 26th October

We are delighted to invite our grandparents and special loved ones to join us on Monday 26th October from 2:30pm to 3:30pm for a special afternoon in our classrooms. This will be a wonderful opportunity for students to share their learning, participate in fun activities and create special memories with the important people in their lives. Grandparents and special loved ones play a valued role in supporting our children’s growth, happiness and development and we look forward to celebrating the meaningful connections they bring to our school community.

Art Show – Monday 26th October

We are delighted to invite our HPS families to our 2026 Art Show on Monday 26th October, from 3:30pm to 4:30pm, celebrating the creativity, imagination and artistic talents of our students. This year, students have drawn inspiration from renowned Australian artist Margaret Preston, exploring Australian flora through vibrant colours, bold patterns and distinctive designs. The Art Show will showcase the wonderful artwork created across the school and highlight the creativity and effort our students have invested in their learning. Following the viewing, a special Art Auction will commence at 4:30pm, featuring a unique artwork created by each class. We encourage families to participate and support our talented students. Entry to the Art Show is by gold coin donation. Events such as this provide a wonderful opportunity to celebrate student achievement and share the rich creative learning taking place at HPS. We look forward to welcoming our families and enjoying this special celebration of the arts together!

Maths Games Night – Tuesday 27th October

We are excited to invite students and their families to our inaugural Maths Games Night on Tuesday 27th October from 3:45pm–5:00pm in the MPC. In partnership with Mathnasium, families will enjoy an afternoon of hands-on maths games, puzzles and challenges. Students and parents will have the opportunity to work together, explore different strategies and experience the fun side of mathematics through a variety of engaging game stations. We will be providing afternoon tea for all attendees! We look forward to welcoming our Highvale families for an afternoon of mathematical thinking, problem-solving and fun!

Churros Fundraising Event – Friday 30th October

Our students will have the opportunity to enjoy a special treat at recess on Friday 30th October, when local family business Dos Amigos Catering visits HPS to serve delicious churros, a traditional Spanish doughnut. This fundraising initiative is a great way to support our school and our fundraising goals. Please refer to Compass for further details. Thank you to our families for your ongoing support of HPS fundraising initiatives!

World Teachers’ Day – Friday 30th October

On Friday 30th October, we will celebrate World Teachers’ Day, recognising and thanking our wonderful teachers for the important role they play in supporting our students’ learning, growth and wellbeing. To mark the occasion, we will be holding a fun Dress Up Day, inviting students to come dressed as a teacher or their favourite teacher! Students might like to wear a shirt or dress, accessorise with glasses or a lanyard, or carry a diary, clipboard or whistle to complete their look. This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to show their appreciation for the dedicated teachers who inspire, encourage and support them every day. We look forward to seeing everyone’s creative outfits as we celebrate the amazing work of teachers at HPS!

Celebrate Our Wonderful Teachers!

As we prepare to celebrate World Teachers’ Day on Friday 30th October, we invite students and parents to help us recognise the wonderful teachers at HPS. We encourage you to write a sentence or two about a particular teacher who has made a positive difference in your child’s learning, wellbeing or school experience. It might be a teacher who inspires, encourages, supports or simply makes each school day special. These thoughtful messages are a lovely way to show our appreciation for the dedication and care our teachers demonstrate every day. Please email your messages to me directly at carly.epskamp@education.vic.gov.au. We look forward to celebrating our amazing HPS teachers and sharing the kind words from our school community!

Breakfast Club

A reminder that our Breakfast Club will continue to operate throughout Term Four, providing students with a free breakfast each Wednesday morning from 8:15am to 8:45am in the Wellbeing Hub undercover area. We are proud to continue offering this valuable program, which helps students start their day positively and supports their wellbeing and readiness to learn. Thank you to our dedicated staff, student leaders and Foodbank for their ongoing commitment to making Breakfast Club such an important part of our HPS community.

Results from Department of Education: Annual Parent / Carer Opinion Survey

The Parent Opinion Survey gathers families’ perspectives on key aspects of school life, including school climate, student behaviour, student engagement and community engagement. Participation is optional and feedback is valued as an important source of information about families’ experiences and perceptions of our school. The results help us identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement, inform professional learning and guide school planning and improvement strategies to enhance outcomes for all students. In the survey there are three main measures: Community Engagement in Learning, Excellence in Teaching and Learning and Positive Climate for Learning.   

Community Engagement in Learning: The Parent Opinion Survey results reflect positive perceptions of Highvale Primary School across community engagement, communication and school ethos. Parent/carer participation and involvement received 88% positive responses, while school communication was a particular strength at 91%. Overall, 85% of respondents were satisfied with the education their child receives, and 85% felt confident that HPS provides a good standard of education. School improvement also received positive feedback, with 86% recognising the school’s commitment to improving educational quality. Areas for further consideration include the physical environment, which received 72% positive responses and 17% negative responses, as well as teacher communication regarding student progress (73% positive) and student reports (79% positive). These findings provide valuable direction for ongoing school improvement, particularly in strengthening communication with families, reporting student achievement and progress, and continuing to enhance school facilities.

Excellence in Teaching and Learning: The Parent Opinion Survey results reflect strong parent confidence in teaching and learning at HPS. High expectations for success received 94% positive responses, with 95% of families recognising that the school celebrates student achievements and 98% describing teachers as enthusiastic and positive about teaching. Student development was also a strength, with 90% positive responses for confidence and resilience, and 86% for student agency and voice. Student motivation and support (82%), stimulating learning environments (85%) and effective teaching (83%) also received positive feedback. Areas for further improvement include communicating assessment processes, with 65% of parents indicating they understand how their child is assessed and providing additional support for families to understand student progress. These findings reinforce the importance of maintaining high expectations and engaging teaching practices while strengthening communication around assessment, feedback and individual learning needs.

Positive Climate for Learning: The Parent Opinion Survey results reflect a positive climate for learning at HPS, with strong feedback regarding student safety, wellbeing, inclusion and school connectedness. A notable 97% of parents indicated that their child feels safe at school, while 93% recognised the school’s consistent approach to promoting positive behaviour and 92% felt the school respects and values diversity. Student wellbeing and support received 91% positive responses, and school connectedness was a particular strength at 95%, with 98% of families acknowledging opportunities for their child to participate in school activities. Positive transitions also received encouraging feedback, with 93% of parents indicating their child had been supported to adjust to their new year level. Attendance communication presents an opportunity for improvement, particularly communicating attendance expectations and achievements (71%) and following up when students miss several days of school (63%). These findings reinforce the importance of maintaining a safe, respectful and inclusive learning environment while strengthening partnerships with families to support student wellbeing, positive attendance and successful transitions.

Thank you to the families that took the time to complete the annual Parent / Carer Opinion Survey this year and provide this feedback. This gives us a lot to focus on for the rest of Term Four and beyond. 

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS 

Kids Help - kidshelpline.com.au phone 1800 55 1800 

Parent Line - betterhealth.vic.gov.au phone 13 22 89 

Headspace - headspace.org.au phone 1800 650 890 

eSafety Commissioner - esafety.gov.au - Advice for parents and carers to help children have safe experiences online 

Have a great week HPS families,

Carly Epskamp

carly.epskamp@education.vic.gov.au