From the Principal's Desk

What's making news this fortnight?


It has been another action-packed fortnight at Banmira, filled with celebrations, milestones, and opportunities for our students to shine. From camps to carnivals, community breakfasts, and one very special Debutante Ball, the energy across our school has been incredible.


Parent/Caregiver/Guardian Opinion Survey – Now Open

We’d love families to log in and share their feedback through the Parent/Caregiver/Guardian Opinion Survey. Your input helps us understand what we do well and where we can improve. Did you know? This survey is one of the most important data sets we use when planning strategically as a school. It gives us measurable targets to work on within our four-year Strategic Plan and Annual Implementation Plan. You can access the survey via the link shared on Seesaw – we really value your voice in this process.


Debutante Ball

Last Tuesday night we finally celebrated our Debutante Ball – and what a night it was! Words can’t quite capture how special this event is for our students and their families. For many of our debutantes, who have been part of Banmira since as early as 2009–2010, the Deb represents both their personal growth and the strong community that surrounds them. A heartfelt thank you to Kayla (Senior Years Leading Teacher) and her committee for preparing such a memorable event, The Woolshed for hosting us, and Hydie Blooms and Avonlea Flowers for generously donating the beautiful table centrepieces, buttonholes, and corsages.


Father’s Day Stall & Breakfast

Thank you to all the fathers, uncles, grandfathers, family members, and special guests who joined us for our Father’s Day Breakfasts at each campus last week. We had our biggest turnout in years, with the sunny spring weather adding to the warmth of the occasion. These events remind us of the importance of community, and the strength that comes when families and schools work together to support our learners.


Upper Middle Years Camp

Our Upper Middle Years students spent the week at Camp Kookaburra, where they explored a wide range of activities, stepped outside their comfort zones, and gave new things a go. Camps are such important milestones in our students’ school journeys, offering hands-on opportunities to build independence, resilience, and life skills.


Team Teach Training

Across Thursday and Friday, our staff participated in professional learning through Team Teach. This training equips staff with strategies to support students who need extra help regulating, while also deepening their knowledge of trauma-informed practice and restorative approaches. We’re committed to ensuring our team feels confident and empowered to support every student in a safe and respectful way.


Athletics Sports

This week our 10–18 year old students from both campuses came together for our Athletics Carnival. Despite the blustery conditions, the enthusiasm and determination of our students shone through. It was wonderful to see so many learners giving their best in a wide variety of events, celebrating both participation and achievement.


End of Term – Reminder:

 

Early finish Friday 19th September at 2:00pm. — buses will also run one hour earlier. 

 

We trust everyone will enjoy a safe, happy school holiday break and come back refreshed for Term 4 on Monday 6th October. Don’t forget to give those school hats a wash over the holidays – from Term 4, our SunSmart policy requires all students to wear a broad-brimmed hat when outside.


As we move into the break, I want to thank families for their ongoing support and partnership. It’s been a fantastic term, and I look forward to seeing everyone return with energy and enthusiasm for the final stretch of the year.

 

Jesse Whittaker - Principal