From the Assistant Principal
Mrs Bullen
POPS Volunteer Requirements
We warmly welcome and value the support of our parent and grandparent volunteers. To ensure the safety and wellbeing of all students, the following requirements apply to all POPS volunteers:
Before Volunteering
All volunteers must:
1. Read the
2. Provide consent to the Volunteer Confidentiality Agreement via Compass prior to commencing any volunteer work.
Working With Children Check (WWCC)
Under the Working with Children Act 2005 (Vic), it is an offence to undertake child-related work without a valid Working With Children Check (WWCC). This requirement includes volunteer roles performed by parents, carers and grandparents.
All parents wishing to volunteer at POPS, including attending excursions, assisting in classrooms, supporting Parent Association events or helping with school activities, must hold a current WWCC card.
Applications can be completed online at: www.workingwithchildren.vic.gov.au
In line with the Working with Children Act 2005 (Vic) and the Child Safe Standards, POPS also undertakes suitability checks. These may include WWCC verification, identity checks, review of work history and/or reference checks.
Signing In and Out
To maintain a safe school environment:
All visitors and volunteers must sign in and sign out via the Compass kiosk when entering and leaving the school grounds during school hours.
Volunteers must wear a “Parent Helper” lanyard while on site.
Signing out is essential when leaving the school, including after classroom assistance or any volunteer activity.
These procedures help us ensure a safe and supportive environment for all members of our school community.
We greatly appreciate the time and support of our volunteers and encourage families to organise their WWCC so they can participate in school activities throughout the year.
For any questions about the volunteer school induction process, contact us via email or call 9876 1249.
bronwyn.garrity@education.vic.gov.au
cornelia.bullen@education.vic.gov.au
The Benefits of Volunteering at Your Child’s School
Life is busy for families. Between work, family commitments and everyday responsibilities, it can feel like there is little time left to give. However, volunteering at school is not just another task on the to-do list; it is an opportunity that benefits children, families and the wider school community.
1. Supporting Children’s Learning- Research shows that children whose parents are involved in their school life often achieve stronger academic results. They tend to demonstrate improved behaviour, better attendance and increased confidence. Parent involvement sends a powerful message that education matters.
2. Sharing in Your Child’s School Experience- Children spend a significant part of their day at school. Volunteering provides families with the opportunity to see their child in a different environment and share in their learning journey. It helps create common experiences and meaningful conversations at home.
3. Building a Stronger Community- Schools thrive on connection. Volunteering is a wonderful way to meet other families and strengthen relationships within the community. A supportive network of adults plays an important role in helping children feel safe and valued.
4. Strengthening Partnerships with Staff- Teachers and school staff work closely with families to support students both academically and socially. Volunteering helps build positive partnerships and demonstrates support for the work happening in classrooms every day.
5. Making a Positive Impact- Schools have many demands and limited resources. Volunteers provide valuable support that enhances programs and experiences for students. Even small contributions make a meaningful difference.
6. Sharing Your Strengths- There are many ways to be involved. Whether helping in the classroom, supporting events or contributing a special skill, volunteering allows parents to use their strengths in ways that suit their interests and availability.
7. Supporting Wellbeing- Volunteering can also have personal benefits. Research suggests that giving time to others can reduce stress, build connections and improve overall wellbeing.
There is no contribution too small. Every effort helps strengthen the school community and enrich the experiences of all students. Families are warmly encouraged to get involved in any way they can.