From the Principal's Desk

As we reach the end of Term Two, there is much to celebrate across our school community. This week, staff across both campuses have been reflecting on the growth, achievements and milestones our students have reached throughout the semester. It has been a privilege reading through student reports and seeing the progress that has occurred in just six months. We hope families and guardians enjoy reading about the many successes their young people have achieved and take pride in the hard work, persistence and learning that has occurred throughout the semester.

Essendon AFLW Visit

Last Wednesday, our Junior Campus was thrilled to welcome Georgia Gee, Maddy Prespakis and Sophie Alexander from the Essendon Football Club AFLW team.

The players spent time meeting students, signing autographs, posing for photos and sharing their passion for football before heading out onto the field for some skills practice. Students had an incredible time practising their handballs and kicks alongside the professionals, and the excitement around the campus was contagious.

We thank the Essendon Football Club players for their generosity and willingness to connect with our students. Opportunities like these create lasting memories and inspire our young people to pursue their interests and passions.

NAIDOC Week Celebrations

On Thursday, our entire school community came together at the Senior Campus to celebrate NAIDOC Week.

Students participated in a range of activities celebrating First Nations cultures, histories and achievements. We were honoured to welcome Uncle Dixie Patten, who shared a smoking ceremony with our students, staff and families, for helping create a meaningful and respectful start to the day.

A special thank you goes to our Leadership Team and Koorie Education Support Officer, Jasmine Graham, for their planning, organisation and support in delivering what was a significant whole-school event. These opportunities help students develop a deeper understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures while celebrating the rich contributions of First Nations peoples to our communities.

Staffing Update

As we prepare for Term Three, I'd like to congratulate Samantha Bentley on her successful appointment as our substantive Leading Teacher – Junior Campus following a highly competitive selection process.

Sam has been leading in an Acting capacity since mid-2025 and has made an outstanding contribution to our Junior Campus. Her commitment to students, staff and continuous school improvement has been evident throughout her time in the role, and this appointment is thoroughly deserved.

As many of our families know, Sam is also preparing for another exciting adventure, with her first baby due early in Term Three. We wish Sam and Darcy all the very best as they prepare to welcome their newest 'little learner'.

Stepping into the Acting Leading Teacher role during Sam's parental leave will be Steph Durden. Steph has been a valued member of the Banmira team for a number of years and most recently has been working at our Senior Campus as Learning Specialist for the Victorian Curriculum. Steph brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and leadership to the role, and I know she will be a wonderful support to our Junior Campus team.

Congratulations to both Sam and Steph on these exciting milestones.

Looking Ahead to Term Three

While we are all looking forward to a well-earned break, there is already plenty of excitement building for Term Three. Students and families can look forward to a busy calendar of events including camps, Book Week celebrations, Father's Day events, AshFest activities, the 2026 Debutante Ball and a range of opportunities to connect through our Carpark Cafés and community events.Student Support Group meetings will be held early in the term, providing another opportunity for families and staff to work together to review learning, celebrate growth and plan the next steps for students. We are also looking forward to welcoming students back for camps and overnight experiences, which continue to play an important role in developing independence, resilience and confidence.

Thank You

As Principal, I would like to thank our students, families, School Council members and staff for another fantastic semester. Banmira continues to thrive because of the partnerships we share and the collective commitment to supporting every student to learn, grow and succeed.

We wish all of our students and families a safe, restful and enjoyable holiday break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for the beginning of Term Three and another exciting chapter of learning together.

Have a wonderful holiday and stay safe.