From the Principal
As we come to the end of Term 1, I would like to take a moment to reflect on what has been a very positive and productive first term for our school community.
This term, our students have had the opportunity to engage in a wide range of experiences including excursions, incursions and extracurricular programs. These opportunities have supported student learning, curiosity and connection, ensuring that all students have been able to participate in meaningful and engaging activities.
We have also enjoyed coming together as a whole school community through events such as our Family BBQ and Harmony Day. These occasions truly highlighted the strength of our community, celebrating our diversity and the wonderful support we receive from our families. It was fantastic to see so many members of our community come together in such a positive and inclusive way.
Our Foundation students settled into school life exceptionally well. They have established strong routines and are demonstrating a great readiness to learn each day. Thank you to our families for your support in reinforcing the importance of regular attendance and punctuality, this makes a significant difference to your child’s learning.
I am incredibly proud of our student leaders, who have begun the year with confidence and enthusiasm. They have embraced their roles, leading assemblies and showing initiative across the school. Their commitment to leadership and willingness to contribute positively to our school is commendable.
Last week our student leaders attended the Grip Leadership Conference at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre and learned all about:
GENEROSITY Willingness to use what you have been given (time and resources) on behalf of those you seek to influence.
RESPONSIBILITY We all have a responsibility to develop what we have and help others to live well.
INTEGRITY A commitment to truth and honesty in dealings.
PEOPLE Every human being is of great significance, and has a purpose to fulfill.
Ms Halliwell and I will be attending the ANZAC Commemorative Service on Sunday 19th April at 10am at the Springvale Town Hall Memorial Gardens, alongside our student leaders Oscar, Alice, Kealyn and Nelson and their families. All families are invited to attend this important community event.
Today’s Good Friday Appeal fundraiser, led by our Student Voice Council, has been a wonderful example of student leadership in action. So far, we have raised $921 through gold coin donations and online. Our online fundraising link remains open for any further contributions. https://fundraise.goodfridayappeal.com.au/fundraisers/atholroadprimaryschool/gfa
Thank you to everyone who has supported this important cause, every contribution makes a difference.
Last week, we held our Annual General Meeting where the 2025 Annual Report was presented. This report highlights the excellent learning and wellbeing outcomes achieved across the school, along with the key programs and initiatives that support our students. The report will be published on our school website later this month, and I encourage all families to take the time to read and celebrate these achievements.
We also held our School Council Meeting, where the following office bearers were elected:
Executive Officer: Carmel Nigro
President: Peter Littlejohn
Vice President: Giang Vo
Treasurer: Tawny Harkness
Secretary: Rachel Gathercole
Other Members: Vanessa Hong, Linh Duong, Sothear Pen and Julie Johnson.
I would like to sincerely thank all members of our School Council. Their ongoing support, commitment and contribution play a vital role in the success of our school.
I would also like to acknowledge and thank our dedicated staff, who each contribute in different but equally important ways to ensure the smooth running of the school. Their commitment to student learning, wellbeing and safety is what makes our school such a positive and supportive environment.
As the term comes to a close, we also take a moment to farewell Lisa Peterson, who will be moving on to work with the NDIS. Lisa has made a significant contribution in supporting both staff and students and we thank her for her dedication and care. We also wish Zoee Sitarz all the very best as she begins her journey into motherhood and we look forward to hearing wonderful baby news soon. Congratulations to Louise Bryce, who will be getting married over the holidays. We hope you have a beautiful celebration and look forward to seeing the photos and hearing all about your special day next term.
Finally, I would like to wish all members of our school community a safe, relaxing and enjoyable holiday break. Thank you for your continued support throughout Term 1. I look forward to welcoming everyone back for Term 2 on Monday 20th April.
Aussie of the Month
Congratulations to the March Aussie of the Month:
Kevin in Year 3. Well done Kevin!!
The Key Values of Aussie of the Month are:
Fair go: not just how we apply ourselves but also in providing opportunity for all
Mateship: a generosity of spirit and compassion for those in need
Respect: of self, of others, our community, and the environment
Inclusion: acceptance and respect of difference
Carmel Nigro
Principal