From the Principal & Assistant Principal
Woodend Primary School
Kinect to Dance Housemates Day
Yesterday all our students in Foundation to Year 6 participated in our Kinect to Dance Housemates day. The program was facilitated by talented dance teacher Kyle, who amazed us all with his ability to co-ordinate a whole school dance in one day. Even our most reluctant dancers were drawn into the energy of the day. Thanks to our staff and parents who also joined in with a community dance to the YMCA. We are planning to continue to work with Kinect Performing Arts in 2027 as part of our whole school performance that we undertake bi-annually. Kinect will be working with Joseph Bromley to support him with this huge undertaking. We look forward to seeing what our students produce next.
Year 3 Transition to Carlsruhe 2027
Last week our amazing Year 3 and Year 4 teachers co-ordinated a half day transition program for our Year 3 students to the Carlsruhe campus. The Year 4 students enjoyed the opportunity to share their experiences with the Year 3's and took the time to show them around the campus and explain to them the expectations of life as a Year 4 Carlsruhe student.
On Monday night we welcomed a group of Year 3 parents to the Carlsruhe campus to allow them the chance to learn a little about how the Year 4 Carlsruhe program operates. For those unable to attend the powerpoint presentation was sent out via Compass on Tuesday. Thanks to the Year 3 and 4 staff for their co-ordination and support of both of these opportunities. Preparing our students for transition is an important part of our role in supporting them to have a positive start each year.
World Teachers Day
This Friday we will celebrate World Teachers Day and thank our wonderful teaching staff for their dedication and hard work. From lightbulb moments to helping someone find their way, teachers make a difference in ways big and small. This World Teachers’ Day, we’re putting that impact in the spotlight. We are asking our community to please take this opportunity to thank the teachers for the work they do each day with your children.
Canteen Helpers
We are fortunate to be able to run a canteen at our school, but it would not be possible without the fantastic group of parent and community volunteers. At times we do run short of volunteers for the canteen and unfortunately when this is the case we may have to consider closing the canteen for the day or limiting the number of lunch orders we receive in a day to ensure Jenni or Bec are able to fulfill orders on their own. If you are able to support our canteen operations and have not signed up yet please contact the office.
Curriculum Day
Please don’t forget that Monday is a Curriculum Day for students as teachers take the time to work on assessment and reporting for Semester 2. We look forward to welcoming all students back on Wednesday, after the Melbourne Cup public holiday on Tuesday.
New Victorian Government restrictions on student use of personal electronic devices
On 4 August 2026, the Victorian Government amended the Education and Training Reform Act 2006, requiring all Victorian schools to restrict student use of personal electronic devices during school hours.
On Tuesday 20 October 2026, further information was published about how schools must do this (Ministerial Order 1515 – Personal Electronic Devices in Victorian Schools).
To follow the new requirements, our school will have a new Mobile Phones and Personal Electronic Devices policy. This policy is currently available on our website.
This new policy will restrict student use of:
mobile phones
smart glasses
wearable devices, such as smartwatches
personal audio devices, such as headphones and earbuds.
Restricting these devices helps to ensure:
a learning environment free from unnecessary distractions and disruptions
a safe environment for students, staff and visitors
greater opportunities for social interaction and physical activity during recess and lunchtimes, without the distraction or social pressures caused by devices.
From Term 1 2027, the following restrictions will apply to these devices if they are brought to school:
mobile phones must be switched off and securely stored during school hours
wearable devices must have notifications, cellular connection and recording functions turned off during school hours
personal audio devices must not be used during school hours.
Our school can only grant exemptions to these restrictions to support:
student learning
health or wellbeing
the management of risks when students are offsite
In addition to these restrictions, wearing or using smart glasses is prohibited on government school premises and at school organised event or activities, including those held offsite or outside regular school hours. This prohibition applies to students, staff, parents, carers, contractors, volunteers and other visitors. Exemptions can only be granted by the principal as a reasonable adjustment for disability and where the adjustment cannot be reasonably provided for by another device or approach.
If you have any questions, please contact the office.
Coffee Van
We’re brew-ing up something special!
Raf's Coffee Van is running a one-off trial at school for morning drop-off. If you love it, we hope to make it a regular thing! His delicious drinks will be available to purchase:
Day: Wednesday 4th November
Time: 8am - 9am
Where: near the netball court
Thanks a latte for supporting our school!
Principal Assistant Principal
Elissa Campbell Adam Sayers