Principal's Desk

Term 4 – Off to a Flying Start!

It’s been fantastic to welcome students back to school over the past week. There’s been a real buzz as students reconnect with friends, re-engage with learning, and settle back into routines.

From our conversations with students, it sounds like the holidays were full of variety—some children spent time with family at work, others were lucky enough to travel, and quite a few had fun adventures at the Melbourne Show!

As always, Term 4 is shaping up to be a busy and exciting one. Term 4 is one of the longest terms of the year—running for 11 weeks—so we’re expecting our students (and staff!) to be ready for a well-earned rest by the end.

While everyone’s energy is high, we’ll be making the most of the time to focus on learning. As we approach the end of term, our pace will gradually shift towards reflection, transition activities, and end-of-year celebrations.

SunSmart in Term 4: No Hat, No Play

A reminder that our SunSmart policy is in full swing throughout Term 4. All students must wear their school hat during outdoor activities, including recess, lunch, sport, and outdoor learning.

Even on overcast days, UV levels can be high during spring and summer. As a SunSmart school, we encourage everyone to follow these five SunSmart steps:

1. Slip on protective clothing – if skin is exposed, UV can reach it.

2. Slop on SPF 30+ (or higher) broad-spectrum sunscreen before going outside, and reapply every two hours.

3. Slap on a broad-brimmed hat that covers the face, neck, and ears.

4. Seek shade whenever possible. Even in shade, sunscreen and hats are still important.

5. Slide on sunglasses (AS 1067 standard) for eye protection, where practical.

2026 Class Placement Process

Each year, we dedicate a great deal of time and care to shaping our class structures, recruiting staff, and thoughtfully placing students. Our aim is to create well-balanced classes that support the learning and wellbeing of every student.

Teachers—who know your child well in the school setting and who will be working closely with them next year—are primarily responsible for creating class lists. They consider a range of factors including gender balance, academic levels, behavioural needs, special learning needs, and social dynamics.

We also value your input. You know your child emotionally better than anyone, and your perspective helps us build the best possible learning environment.

Before making a parent request, we ask you to consider the role of resilience in your child’s development. School is a great place to learn to work with different kinds of people—a vital life skill. Classrooms are for learning; playgrounds are for socialising. If children are surrounded by their best friends in class, it can limit opportunities to build new friendships and social confidence.

Requests Regarding Teachers

We kindly ask that parent requests do not include the names of specific teachers you would or would not prefer. Instead, please describe the type of learning environment or teaching style that suits your child best (e.g., warm and nurturing, structured and clear, etc.). Requests naming specific staff will not be considered.

A new request must be submitted each year—previous requests will not carry over into 2026.

How to Submit a Request

All requests must be submitted in writing via email by Friday 31st October to:

Park.Ridge.PS@education.vic.gov.au

Due to the complexity of placing over 500 students across 20+ classes, late submissions will not be accepted. Thank you for your understanding.

Student Friend Requests

As part of our class placement process, every student is given the opportunity to list up to five peers they would like to be with in their class next year. Our teachers work hard to ensure that every student is placed with at least one of their selected peers.

We encourage students to think carefully about who they include—not just the friend they played with today, but peers who help them learn, stay focused, and feel supported. It’s also completely okay for students to choose someone they’d like to get to know better. That kind of independent thinking shows maturity and growing social confidence.

It’s rare for a child to be placed without any friends. If such a situation arises, we consult with parents to ensure the best outcome for the child.

Please take the time to talk with your child about this process and encourage them to choose classmates who help them learn and grow. These conversations will take place in the first few weeks of Term 4, following the Melbourne Cup long weekend.

Internal Transition Program – Supporting a Smooth Move

Our internal transition program helps ensure a smooth and positive move for students from one year level to the next. Activities vary between formal and informal experiences, giving students the chance to build connections across their year level and meet different teachers.

Our staff spend considerable time preparing students for the year ahead, helping them reflect on past transitions and build confidence in their ability to manage change.

We’ll share more information over the coming weeks as teachers begin discussing class placements and transitions with students.

Riding to School – Safety Reminder

If your child rides a bike, scooter, skateboard or other wheeled transport to school, please ensure they leave home wearing a helmet—it’s not only important for safety, it’s also the law.

Students are also reminded that there is no riding on school grounds, especially through the staff car park. Thank you for helping us keep everyone safe.

Wishing you a great week ahead. As always, feel free to drop in for a chat with Carrie, Brendan or me. Our doors are always open! 

Take care,

Mr. Dale Blythman