From the Principal’s Desk

I hope all families enjoyed a restful Term 1 break. I was fortunate to take a short period of long service leave in the first week of Term 2 and enjoyed a wonderful trip to Vietnam. I’ve returned feeling refreshed and energised for the busy term ahead.

Last term was not without its challenges, particularly in communicating our decision to conclude the Montessori program at Mitcham Primary School. This was a significant and emotional announcement, and I want to acknowledge again the strength and thoughtfulness of our community throughout this time. With emotions now settling, our focus is firmly on ensuring that students and staff in the Montessori stream feel supported and affirmed as we work through the transition over the coming years.

PREP 2026 – INFORMATION EVENING AND OPEN DAY

It’s hard to believe we are already preparing to welcome the 2026 Prep cohort! Our Prep Information Evening will be held next Tuesday evening, followed by our annual Open Day on Tuesday, 13th May. Open Day is always a highlight on our calendar – a chance to see learning in action and to visit classrooms, including our wonderful specialist programs. We warmly invite all families to come along and take a look around the school. It’s a great opportunity to see your child’s classroom and celebrate the work they are doing.

CHILD SAFE STANDARDS – 2026 COMPLIANCE ASSESSMENT

In Term 1 of 2026, Mitcham Primary School will undertake a compliance assessment against the Minimum Standards and Child Safe Standards. This process involves working with an assessor from the Department’s School Compliance Unit to review our practices and ensure they meet the required expectations. While we are confident in our current processes, we will begin a detailed internal review this term to prepare thoroughly for the assessment.

FACILITIES UPDATE

Over the recent holiday break, several important facilities upgrades were completed by our wonderful Facilities Manager, Adrian. These included replacing gutters on the Grade 1 portable classrooms, repairing fencing, fixing decking outside the Grade 3/4 learning area, and installing ladder anchor points on our roofs. In our Gentle Play area, final landscaping and the installation of a rubber rock surface along the concrete path have now been completed. Bliss Maintenance continues to support the school with regular gardening and grounds work, which is very much appreciated.

CONNECTING COMMUNITY

Earlier this year, we hosted two parent and carer meetings, and the feedback we received was clear - families are keen for more opportunities to connect informally. We love this idea and are excited to launch our new ‘Mitch-Café’ - a casual tea and coffee catch-up held in the staff room after Friday morning assemblies. Our first Mitch-Café happened this morning, it was lovely to see parents connecting and chatting with one another - we would love for you to join us next time if you are free.

Wishing all families a lovely weekend.

Warmly,

Erin

Mitchat

Respect, Resilience, Kindness, Love of Learning

Issue 6 · 02 May 2025

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