Principal's Report
PRINCIPAL’S NEWSLETTER MARCH 13, 2026
1. Learning and School Improvement Strong learning culture across our classrooms
Over the past few weeks it has been pleasing to see the strong learning culture across our school. During classroom visits, students are settled, engaged and focused on their learning. These calm and purposeful learning environments reflect the high expectations and commitment of both our staff and students.
School Review confirms strong teaching and learning
We recently completed our School Review, which was a very positive process for our school community. The review recognised the strong work taking place across our classrooms and confirmed that we are delivering the Department of Education curriculum with consistency and high expectations for learning.
The review also provided recommendations that will guide the development of our next four-year Strategic Plan, with a focus on strengthening consistency across the school and continuing to build our wellbeing supports for students.
Alongside this process we also undertook a comprehensive Child Safe review, where our practices were commended. Ensuring our school remains a safe and supportive environment for every child continues to be a priority.
A new Child Safe section has been added to our website under the Parent tab, where families can easily access relevant policies and procedures. We understand that some families may still have questions following recent events. Please know that our staff are committed to being transparent and supportive. If you have concerns, please reach out. We are always working to improve our school and make it the very best it can be.
2. Student Leadership and Student Voice
Students leading initiatives across the school
We continue to strengthen our student leadership program, providing meaningful opportunities for students to contribute to our school community.
Leadership positions are awarded through a fair and rigorous process, recognising students who consistently demonstrate our school values. Students who are selected for these roles should be very proud of their achievement.
Year 6 fundraiser a great success
Our Year 6 School Captains recently organised the fundraiser “Dress as the First Letter of Your Name.” The event created plenty of creativity and laughter across the school and raised over $900, which will go towards upgrading our basketball facilities. Thank you to families for supporting this initiative.
Student Engagement Leaders building community
Our Student Engagement Leaders are working with Mr Rose and Ms Bailey to strengthen connections across our school community. They shared many thoughtful ideas at our recent meeting, and we look forward to implementing initiatives throughout the year.
Leadership development opportunities
Several Year 6 Captains attended a leadership day at EMC as part of the THRIVE initiative, where they explored leadership responsibilities and ways to promote positive change in schools. Students shared ideas including improvements to the bike shed and creative rubbish catchers to help keep our grounds tidy.
Our Year 6 House Captains are also participating in leadership training with Mrs Burt and play an important role in supporting school sporting events.
3. Learning Snapshot – NAPLAN
NAPLAN begins this week for Years 3 and 5
Mrs Gilchrist has carefully organised the NAPLAN timetable, with assessments beginning this week for students in Years 3 and 5.
NAPLAN provides a snapshot of student learning and helps schools track progress, identify strengths in teaching programs and highlight areas for improvement. This information supports our commitment to maintaining high expectations and strong learning growth for all students.
We also review Year 7 NAPLAN data once students transition to secondary school, which provides valuable feedback about how well our students are prepared for the next stage of their education.
4. Supporting Positive Behaviour Working together to care for our school environment
Breakfast Club continues to be a valued program for many students. Recently, a small number of students have not been disposing of rubbish appropriately around the basketball court and oval. We are exploring ways to encourage responsible behaviour, including the possibility of eating in a designated area so the program can remain enjoyable for everyone.
Similarly, some inappropriate behaviour has occurred in the toilets, including misuse of facilities and minor damage to surfaces. These behaviours are limited to a small number of students and are being addressed through year-level assemblies and classroom discussions about respect for our school environment.
The flying fox on the 3/4 playground also requires careful use. Additional supervision has been put in place and staff are supporting students to use the equipment safely so all children can enjoy the playground.
We appreciate families reinforcing these expectations at home so we can continue to maintain a safe and respectful school environment.
5. Important Reminders for Families Parking reminder
A friendly reminder that parent parking is not available onsite. Parking within the school grounds is reserved for staff only or during scheduled King’s Swimming lessons. Thank you for helping keep our school grounds safe and accessible.
6. Attendance matters
Regular attendance is essential for student learning and wellbeing. Consistent attendance allows students to build on prior learning, develop important social skills and remain connected to their classroom community.
Did you know that if a student misses three weeks of school each year, by the end of Year 6 they will have missed approximately six months of learning?
Thank you for supporting your child to attend school regularly and on time.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support of our school community. We want to make our school the best school ever and to develop curious, confident learners. Together we can achieve that.
Kind regards
Deb Haddow
Principal