Principal's Report
NEWSLETTER REPORT – TERM 4, WEEK 9
Schools are wonderfully busy places, and ours is no exception! There is always so much happening as we work to create the best possible experiences for our students. Here’s a snapshot of what’s been going on across the school.
Important Reminders
Parking at Kings Swim Centre
Please do not park in the Kings Swim Centre car park unless you are attending a swimming lesson at that time. Using the area for general parking leads to overcrowding and safety concerns. Thank you for helping us keep this space safe for everyone.
Upcoming Social Media Bans
Please stay informed about the Department’s upcoming changes regarding social media use.
2026 Camp Planning Update – Have You Completed the Survey? (Year 3–5 Parents)
As we prepare for our 2026 camp program, we aim to offer experiences that are enjoyable, educational, and financially sustainable. To meet Department requirements around staff overtime and ensure responsible budgeting, we will be offering two overnight camps next year while still providing camp-style experiences for all students in Years 3–6.
Based on survey responses so far, our proposed program is:
- Year 3: Day camp experience (all camp activities, no overnight stay)
- Year 4: Day camp experience (full program, no overnight stay)
- Year 5: Two-night camp – possibly at Sovereign Hill
- Year 6: Beach Week, a two-night camp, and a variety of end-of-year events
If you haven’t yet submitted your preference survey, please do so. Your feedback helps us plan early and support family budgets while offering the best opportunities for students.
On your COMPASS app click:
☰ MORE
Insights
2026 Camp Planning- Seeking
Parent & Carer Input ➔
Select your answer via drop down box.
Survey closes Sunday night.
Foundation Transition
Our new Foundation students enjoyed a wonderful transition session last week. We look forward to welcoming them into their 2026 classes on Up Day, December 8.
Student Awards
Last week we celebrated students who consistently give their best in all they do. These students were recognised at assembly, and we thank TheirCare—our on-site Out of School Hours Care provider—for generously donating vouchers to accompany the awards. Congratulations to all recipients!
We also announced our 2026 Year 5 Playleaders, who will support our junior school by running games and activities each day. Their training will take place early next year.
At our next assembly, we will share our 2026 Year 6 Leaders. Our leadership selection process is thorough, using applications and a detailed scoring rubric to ensure the right student is matched to each role. Leadership is a significant responsibility, and positions are assigned based on suitability—not gender—to ensure students are set up for success.
Sports
Our senior students have had a fantastic few weeks of sporting events, including the Triathlon, Cable Park Day and several 2-for-1 Sport Days. These events highlight the skills developed in our comprehensive sports program and keep students engaged as the year comes to a close.
Our Swimming Sports are also just around the corner.
A huge thank you to our Sports faculty for their outstanding organisation and energy in bringing these events to life.
2026 Classes and Transition
Class lists—including teachers and room allocations—for 2026 will be finalised for Up Day.
Staff have put significant thought and care into these groupings, and they are coming together beautifully.
Please continue to speak positively with your child about moving to the next year level. Our Attitudes to School Survey shows a 92% satisfaction rate for transitions, which reflects the trust families can have in our process. A little challenge supports growth, and we will always provide the necessary support.
Students with additional needs have been visiting their 2026 classrooms or meeting teachers—often without even realising—helping to make the transition smooth and comfortable.
Swim to School Day – Monday 2 December
Water Safety at LPPS
Through our partnership with Kings Swimming, we continue to strengthen water safety skills across the school. Our on-site pool means students enjoy twice as many swimming lessons as those in many other schools.
Senior students also complete water safety sessions on the pool deck, preparing them for the Year 6 Beach Program.
Our pool also allows us to run swimming carnivals and even host our own triathlon—opportunities not available in most schools. We are truly fortunate to have such a fantastic facility.
A media release celebrating our water safety program and Kings partnership will be shared soon and posted on our Facebook page.
Grounds and Facilities Update
Our New Flagpole Garden
Our Flagpole Garden is looking fantastic! A big thank you to Bluey (Acting Facilities Manager) and parent Jaime Rochford for their time and effort in bringing this project to life. We are committed to making the front of our school welcoming and vibrant, and community support is greatly appreciated.
Students have also been joining me in the gardens during break times, learning how to care for the spaces near their classrooms and take pride in their surroundings.
Active Travel and Bike Storage
We’ve seen a wonderful increase in the number of students riding to school. As active travel continues to grow, we’ll be seeking community support next year to expand our bike storage area so all bikes can be kept safely and securely.
Old Year 2 Basketball Area
You may have noticed that the old Year 2 basketball area requires maintenance. We are currently working with the Department to determine what repairs can be supported. This space is out of bounds for students until further notice.
Basketball Court Upgrade
Our School Council and PFC have been fundraising over the past few years to resurface and upgrade the basketball courts behind the gym. We are now in the final stages of obtaining quotes and look forward to starting the project as soon as possible.
Thank you to our community for your ongoing support of PFC events—they make improvements like this possible.
Digital Devices in 2026 and Beyond
You may have seen recent media coverage about Department changes coming in 2027 regarding digital devices. More information will be shared next year, but for now, nothing changes for 2026.Students may continue to use BYOD devices as normal, and shared devices will remain available in classrooms.
PFC News and Community Involvement
At our recent PFC AGM, no nominations were received for the President role. The PFC plays a key part in building community connection through events such as Mother’s and Father’s Day stalls, the school disco, and our Colour Event.
If we cannot secure enough volunteers, the PFC may need to be dissolved.
In the past, the PFC has raised funds for many of our wonderful playgrounds—proof that many hands make light work. If you can assist in any capacity, please contact us at :Langwarrin.park.ps@education.vic.gov.au
Stay Connected
This is a very busy time of year, so please keep an eye on important dates. Many events require preparation and planning to ensure safety and smooth running. Thank you for staying organised and helping your child take part.
December 9 – Up Day Please exit the school grounds promptly after drop-off so we can safely move students around. Anyone still on site at 9:15am will be asked to sign in at the office. Information about your child’s 2026 class will be sent home that evening.
December 10 – School Singa long A fun whole-school family event.
December 16 – Class Parties Details will be shared by classroom teachers.
December 18 – Final Assembly Our final 2025 assembly will be held at 9:30am, acknowledging the achievements of our Year 6 students. School finishes at 3:30pm on this day.
Kind regards,
Deb Haddow
Principal
We know life is busy, but there’s real power in community. We’re calling on our local legends to help with a few small projects — things we’d rather not outsource if we can keep it in the neighbourhood!
We’re currently looking for:
A licensed gas plumber for compliance checks
Carpenters for a fencing project
An air conditioning mechanic (for holiday servicing)
A landscaper for garden planning
Green thumbs for light weeding and pruning
Even an hour of your time makes a big difference. If you’re able to help or want more info, please contact the front office — Bluey, our Facilities Manager, will be in touch.
Let’s keep building a strong, connected community — together!
langwarrin.park.ps@education.vic.gov.au