Principal's Message

Welcome back to Term 3. We hope you all had a restful and enjoyable holiday break. Hopefully, the time away from the regular routines gave you the chance to relax, recharge, and spend some joyful moments together as a family. Whether you travelled, caught up with loved ones, or simply enjoyed a slower pace at home, we’re so glad to have everyone back at school ready for another exciting term of learning and growth.

Tomorrow is one of the most special events on our school calendar Grandparents/Grand friends Day. This beautiful celebration gives us the opportunity to open our doors and welcome grandparents into our school community. It’s always such a joy to see our students bursting with pride as they show their grandparents their classrooms, introduce them to their teachers and friends and share in activities that highlight the learning and life of our school.

There’s no doubt that grandparents play a profoundly important role in a child’s life. Research consistently shows that children who have strong connections with their grandparents benefit emotionally, socially, and even academically. Grandparents offer a unique kind of love, unconditional, wise, and gentle. Their stories, traditions, and presence provide children with a deeper sense of belonging and identity.

Personally, I have such fond memories of my own grandparents. I was lucky to grow up with four grandparents and a great-grandmother who lived to the remarkable age of 104. We lived in the country, but whenever we visited Melbourne, we stayed with them. Those visits are etched into my heart, late nights playing cards, sitting around the dinner table, drinking endless cups of tea, reading together, and, most memorably, getting breakfast in bed (something I was never allowed at home). These moments weren’t just fun, they were formative. They built an unbreakable bond with my grandparents, one I cherished deeply.

I still remember the pride I felt the day my “Mama” came to Grandparents Day at my school. Being able to share my learning space with her, to show her my classroom, my books, my friends, it meant everything. It’s a memory I hold dear, and one that highlights just how meaningful this day can be for our students and their grandparents.

Sadly, this time last year, I lost my last surviving grandparent, my Mama. She was 92, and while I miss her deeply, I carry her love, warmth, and generosity with me every day. The lessons she taught me still guide how I lead, care, and connect with others each day. 

So as we prepare to welcome our beloved grandparents into our school tomorrow, we do so with deep gratitude. Thank you to all the grandparents and grandfriends who continue to shape the lives of our children in the most beautiful ways. We can’t wait to celebrate with you.

Elise Coghlan

Acting Principal

St Martin de Porres Primary School is committed to creating an environment where the safety, well-being, and participation of all children within our care is paramount. 

2025 - School Closure Days

Listed below are our school closure days for 2025. These are student-free days. Staff use these days to develop their learning further and keep informed with current practices and procedures. 

NOTE: These dates may be subject to change that may be outside of our control.