Inclusive Education 

As we approach the end of another school year, I am reminded of the absolute privilege it is to be working in this space at this time. As educators in the primary years of schooling, we witness a journey of growth and learning that is unmatched in any other stage of education. When students begin their formal schooling, they arrive with a virtual backpack filled with the skills, knowledge, beliefs, and values developed through their families and the world around them.

With each passing year, we see not only their physical growth—pant legs becoming shorter and jumpers a little smaller—but also their development in confidence, self-awareness, attentional control, and executive function, not to mention their social communication and relationship skills. School is, of course, about learning to read, write, and solve mathematical problems. But it is also so much more than that. It is about each student becoming who they are destined to be. It is about recognising their strengths, and harnessing those strengths to support growth in other areas; about taking on new challenges and applying sustained effort; about persevering through difficulty and celebrating success, no matter how big or small. And it is about all those who journey with them along the way.

We have seen incredible growth in core curriculum areas and in the attainment of key skills in Inclusive Education this year, but many of the greatest moments have come in less measurable ways. These are the gifts I will carry with me into Christmas: a song sung from the heart, a student taking a strategy or activity they’ve found helpful and teaching it to another, a note or drawing left on my desk, the smile shared when celebrating a successful moment.

These moments remind us why we do what we do. They are the quiet but powerful markers of the connections we build, the trust we nurture, and the growth we see unfolding before us. They affirm that every encouragement, every conversation, every scaffolded step, and every shared celebration, matters.

As we close the year, I extend my heartfelt thanks to our families for partnering with us, for entrusting us with your children, and for walking alongside us in this extraordinary journey of learning. To our students: thank you for your curiosity, your honesty, your resilience, and the joy you bring into our days. You inspire us continually.

To my colleagues, it is a privilege to work with a team so devoted to the wellbeing, growth, and success of all students. Your commitment is seen, felt, and deeply appreciated.

May the Christmas season bring rest, joy, and time with those you love. I look forward to another year of discovery, learning, and shared successes in 2026.

Blessings,

Yiota Chesterfield

Inclusive Education Coordinator