Principal's Report
Dear Parents and Carers,
Welcome to all of our Mackellar families, both new and returning, and a very warm welcome to our wonderful students for the year ahead.
We are pleased to welcome back Tracey Ngo after a short stint elsewhere, and we are also delighted to introduce Mark Coulson, who has joined our grade 6 team. A full overview of our staff and roles for 2026 can be found on the following page.
As we welcome staff, it is also time to say goodbye to a long serving staff member. This Friday marks the end of an illustrious teaching career for Tanya Lindsay- Clark.
Tanya has worked at Mackellar Primary School for many years undertaking any number of teaching and leadership roles. Her dedication has benefitted hundreds of students, and her mentorship and guidance has supported so many staff members over the years.
Now it is time for Tanya to move on to the next stage of her life with a well earned retirement. Unfortunately, Tanya won't be with us for the last few days of her career due to personal reasons, however we look forward to saying 'thank you' personally when she can join us.
For families who have been with us for some time, you will know our first newsletter includes important reminders and new routines.
Morning Routines - This year we are placing a strong focus on having a calm and orderly learning environment from the start of the day. As mentioned last year, classes will line up outside each morning, where teachers will greet students. Parents, please do not be offended if we ask you to wait outside to assist with an orderly entry in the mornings, and your support with this is appreciated.
Once inside, students in Grades 3–6 will place their devices into a lockable trolley each morning. Students in Prep- 2 will not bring devices to school.
Medications and Medical Plans - If your child requires medication at school, forms must be updated annually. The same applies to anaphylaxis and asthma management plans. Please discuss any updates with your family doctor and provide forms to the school office.
Arrival and Departure - The school grounds are supervised from 8:40am, and for 10 minutes after dismissal. Students should not arrive before 8:40am, as supervision is not available. At the end of the day, teachers escort students outside to greet parents. All students must be collected by 3:40pm when yard duty concludes.
SunSmart - During terms 1 and 4, students are required to wear a school broad-brimmed hat. Hats must be black and worn daily. Students without a hat will remain in shaded areas during breaks.
Late Arrivals - Learning begins promptly after the bell. We appreciate your support in ensuring students arrive on time. If your child is late, an adult must sign them in. Students should not arrive late without adult supervision.
On other news, sometime this week the toilets near the gym will be closed for renovations. Students in grades 3 and 4 will have alternate lining up areas before school. With a toilet block close to the grade preps and in the BER, we still have sufficient toilets for students. This renovation will take the remainder of term one.
Kind regards,
Simon McGlade
Principal