Principals' Page

As we reach the end of another busy term, I want to thank our staff, students and families for all you do to make Great Ryrie such a caring and lively school.

 

The Production rehearsals for Shrek the Musical Jr. are in full swing, and the excitement is building for Term 4 Performances. 

For the first time we are performing at a larger venue, which means there are still tickets available. It promises to be a colourful, fun and professional show. Please come along and cheer on our students. 

 

The Year 6 Bizarre Bazaar was a wonderful combination of creativity and high finances, with stalls designed and run by the students to raise money for charity. I know I picked up a few bargains and a number of stress balls the students kept encouraging me to buy.

The Prep Australian Animals DIsplay gave us all a chance to see just how far our Preps have come in reading and writing this year. They were so proud to share their books and their animal models.

 

NAPLAN Writing Results

We are very proud of our NAPLAN writing results this year:

  • Year 3: 92% of students in the strong or exceeding category compared to :

    Similar schools: 85% | Network: 87% | State: 79%

  • Year 5: 90% of students in the strong or exceeding category compared to 

    Similar schools: 78% | Network: 76% | State: 72%

     

These results are exceptional, and they highlight the dedication of our students and teachers. Watch this space for more updates on NAPLAN results across other areas.

 

Enrolments Update 

Our school is now on an enrolment management plan from the Department of Education as we are at full capacity. Prep enrolments for 2026 are being finalised, and we look forward to welcoming our new families to our community. If you have not enrolled your Prep child please do as soon as possible as Transition sessions  will start next term. 

 

School Review and Child Safety

Next term, our school will undergo the Department of Education’s School Review, an opportunity to reflect on our achievements and set clear goals for the future. This process occurs every 4 years, and ensures that our Strategic Plan continues to guide us toward the best outcomes for our students.

I’m also pleased to let you know that we recently passed the VRQA Child Safety Standards review and risk register audit. This is an important reminder that student safety is at the centre of everything we do, and I thank our staff and families for their role in making Great Ryrie such a safe and supportive place to learn.

 

Communication and Concerns

A gentle reminder that unofficial social media groups (such as WhatsApp or private Facebook groups) are not school-endorsed places for raising concerns. They are fine for reminders or playdates, but not for discussing school matters or staff.

If you have a concern, please use our Complaints Policy. Both Melissa and I are always happy to talk with you and work together on solutions.

Farewell to Jack Murray

This term we say goodbye to Jack Murray, one of our much loved ES staff members. Jack has completed his teaching degree and he is the first Indigenous student to graduate from Deakin with a Bachelor of Education in Secondary Education. He has accepted a Health and PE teaching position at Cobram Secondary College. He will be moving to Barooga, NSW, where he can combine his love of teaching with his passion for the outdoors.

Jack has made a real difference to the students he has supported here. On behalf of the whole school community, I thank him for his care and commitment and wish him every success. He will be greatly missed.

 

With footy finals on, there will be lots of friendly competition in our community. Whatever colours you’re cheering for, I hope your team wins. Don't worry Richmond will be there again one day. 

 

Have a wonderful break with your family and friends 

 

Karen Rouda Principal and Melissa Roberts Assistant Principal