Wellbeing 

2026 Class Lists

Hi everyone,

The time of year is here, where teachers are developing 2026 class lists. It's like organising the seating plan for a massive wedding, but a whole pile of the guests have wobbly teeth. Each year we tweak, move and shuffle the names, looking for a balance between friendships, academics, genders, wellbeing and teacher loads. And just when we think we have it right someone remembers "The Great Sandpit Incident" from 2023 and we realise we have to tweak some more!

In the lead up to all of this we hope that families and students will trust the process. Change can be worrying and overwhelming for some and the butterflies in the tummies before Statewide Orientation Day on Tuesday the 9th December are normal - even for the teachers! Here are some helpful ways parents can stay positive and support their child through upcoming class or teacher changes:

Focus on the opportunities

Highlight what they might gain—new friends, new learning, new experiences. Children take their emotional cues from adults, so positivity is contagious.

Use encouraging language

Swap “I know you’re worried” for “Change can feel tricky, but I know you can handle it.” This builds confidence rather than fear.

Normalise mixed feelings

It’s okay to feel nervous and excited at the same time. Feeling unsure doesn’t mean the change is bad, it means it’s important.

Listen more than you fix

Sometimes children don’t need solutions—they just need to feel heard a simple, “I understand". 

Avoid comparing classes or teachers

We know our students hear everything—even when we think they aren’t listening. Speaking positively helps them to walk in confidently.

A final reminder that children adapt quickly when surrounded by calm, supportive adults. If we model optimism and resilience, they will do the same.

Have a great week everyone!

Mrs Roisin Mauriks

roisin.mauriks@education.vic.gov.au

Ph: 5368 1072