A message from Mr Steed
Vale Chris Bloxham
Parent of Hurstville Public School and former P&C President (2021 – 2023)
I drafted this acknowledgement of Chris and his wonderful contribution to the Hurstville Public School community earlier in the term, but felt that his passing was still very raw for Chris' family and for members of the school community. I would like to share this acknowledgement with the school community now.
During the December/January school vacation, we were saddened to learn of the passing of a valued member of our school community under very tragic circumstances. Mr Chris Bloxham, a parent of both a current and a former student at Hurstville Public School, and former P&C President (2021–2023), passed away on 30 December 2025 as a result of a cycling accident.
As a school, we believe it is important to acknowledge Chris’ passing within our community, as his contributions to Hurstville Public School, its students, and staff were significant—through his time, energy, insight, and leadership.
I had the privilege of working closely with Chris during one of the most challenging periods for our school and society at large—the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting lockdowns. Throughout this time, Chris proved to be an exceptional sounding board and a strong community voice who fully understood the difficulties we faced in managing school operations while adhering to social distancing and other safety protocols.
Our school leadership team greatly valued Chris’ calm and level-headed approach during this period. Navigating the challenges of COVID-19 was truly a team effort, and Chris’ leadership of the Hurstville P&C played a vital role in fostering a calm, inclusive and supportive environment within our school community.
Chris consistently demonstrated astute judgement and a deep dedication to the young people of Hurstville Public School during his tenure as P&C President, as well as to the broader Hurstville community. Wonderful projects and initiatives were brought to life at Hurstville PS during this time, and the school leaders always appreciated Chris’ encouragement and support, even when ambitious projects seemed difficult to achieve.
Chris’ passing has been profoundly felt by our entire school community. Our thoughts are with Xiaoxiao, Brooke, and Luke during this difficult time.
Wishing you a happy and safe school vacation
Students Return for Term 2 - Wednesday 22 April
I would like to wish all of our students and their families a wonderful and safe school vacation. Hopefully all of our families will have an opportunity to share some wonderful times together in the holidays with family and friends.
Our final day of term 1 is today - Thursday 2 April.
Students return to commence Term 2 on Wednesday 22 April, however, our staff will return on Monday 20 April to undertake further professional learning.
Hurstville PS - HR/Staffing Update - Term 1 - Deputy Principal Position Outcome - Pending 10 Day Appeal Period
I am very pleased to share that, following the completion of the recent merit selection process, Mr Dave Renshaw has been offered and has accepted the position of substantive Deputy Principal at Hurstville Public School, pending the 10-day appeal period.
The merit selection process was conducted in accordance with departmental procedures and included a panel comprising principal, staff representative, P&C representative, Local community NESB representative and Director's representative.
Mr Renshaw clearly established himself through the process as an experienced and talented educational leader who continually advocates for young people and their families. He brings a strong dedication for public education, a deep commitment to continuous improvement, and extensive leadership experience in the Deputy Principal role.
I know you will join me in congratulating Mr Renshaw on this wonderful achievement.
School Community Charter
In light of some recent incidents at our school involving parents and community members interacting inappropriately on the school site, I draw your attention to the School Community Charter and ask that all members of our school community adhere to maintaining respectful and appropriate boundaries when at the school and engaging with others.
At our school, the wellbeing and safety of every student is a top priority. In line with the NSW Department of Education’s School Community Charter (attached below), we remind all parents and community members to please refrain from approaching or speaking to other people’s children on the school site.
Maintaining respectful and appropriate boundaries helps us create a positive and safe learning environment where every student feels known, valued, and cared for. We appreciate your support in working collaboratively with the school community to promote student wellbeing and respect for all students.
Thank you for your cooperation with this matter.
REMINDER – Applications for Extended Leave – Travel: Important Information for Families
Since the beginning of Term 1, the school has received a high number of Applications for Extended Leave – Travel. I’d like to take this opportunity to remind families of some key considerations when planning travel during the school term.
Regular school attendance is a critical factor in maintaining student progress and achievement. All NSW public schools are working towards specific attendance targets, and we are required to have systems in place to closely monitor and support student attendance.
With international travel now more accessible, I understand many families are looking to travel more extensively throughout the year. However, I ask that families carefully consider the impact extended travel can have on their child’s education.
Over recent weeks, I have received a significant number of extended leave applications. While each application is thoughtfully reviewed and individual circumstances are taken into account, it is important for families to know that a student’s current and previous attendance rates are also key factors in the decision-making process.
NSW public schools are required to take action when a student’s attendance falls below 90%. This includes implementing strategies to support the student in returning to regular attendance. A number of the applications we have received involve students who are already at or below this 90% threshold. Approving further leave in these cases would result in attendance falling even further below expectations, which is not something the school can support.
For this reason, I am currently in the process of notifying some families that their application for extended travel leave has not been approved. This also applies to applications where the proposed travel duration would significantly reduce a student’s overall attendance percentage to below the acceptable threshold.
I urge all families to carefully consider the timing of travel and, where possible, to schedule any extended trips during school holiday periods. Doing so helps minimise disruption to student learning and supports their ongoing academic and social development.
Thank you for your continued support and understanding.
Reminder: Behaviour Code for Students (NSW Dept of Education)
To support a safe, respectful and successful learning environment, our school follows the NSW Department of Education Behaviour Code for Students. It outlines the shared expectations that students, staff and families work toward together.
In NSW public schools, students are expected (to the best of their ability) to:
show respect to other students, teachers, staff and community members
follow school and class rules and follow teachers’ directions
strive for their highest standards in learning
act in ways that help others feel valued, included and supported
resolve conflict respectfully, calmly and fairly
meet the school’s uniform policy/dress code
attend school every day (unless legally excused).
All students have a right to:
be safe at school
access and participate fully in learning
be treated with respect
express their views, set goals and self-advocate.
A copy of the Behaviour Code is below.
Translated versions are available here.