From the Principal’s Desk

Dear families,

I have missed seeing the smiling faces of our students over the past week, as I have been at home recovering from a persistent chest infection. It is certainly that time of year - with the arrival of winter, we’re seeing an increase in coughs, colds, and other seasonal illnesses across our school community.

We know how much our students love being at school and how busy family life can be, but we kindly ask families to remain vigilant and keep children at home if they are unwell. This helps prevent the spread of illness and supports a healthier environment for everyone.

On a brighter note, we are thrilled to welcome back Ryan, one of Australia’s much-loved Lego Masters! Ryan will be working with our students on a series of engaging and creative STEM challenges, starting today and continuing into next week. His sessions are always a highlight, sparking curiosity, collaboration and innovative thinking - we can’t wait to see what our students create!

This week also marks National Reconciliation Week, a time for all Australians to reflect on our shared histories and commit to building respectful relationships between the wider Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Our students have been learning about the significance of this week in their classrooms and engaging in conversations about truth-telling, respect, and healing.

We are especially grateful to Claire Todeschini, who accompanied our Marrung team and school captains to the Whitehorse Sorry Day Flag Raising Ceremony at the Nunawading Round. This meaningful event recognises the impact of historical policies, practices and attitudes on First Nations peoples and honours their ongoing strength and resilience. Led by a Wurundjeri Elder and Councillor, the ceremony was a powerful moment of reflection and connection for our students.

Take care and stay warm,

Erin Norman

Grade 5/6 SWPS Shoutout