Principal's Report
We, at Miners Rest Primary School, would like to acknowledge the Wadawurrung people of the Kulin Nation.
We pay our respects and thank the Wadawurrung people. May we share your land. We promise to look after it, as well as the animals and people too.
2025 Year 6 Graduates
On behalf of our school community, I would like to wish our 2025 Year 6 graduating students every success as they embark on their new educational journeys. We look forward to hearing about your achievements, adventures, and experiences as we continue to follow your progress through your secondary years. We are incredibly proud of you and confident that the strong foundation you have built during your time at MRK-6 will guide you well through the challenges and opportunities ahead. Best wishes for a bright and exciting 2026!
Presentation Evening
Thank you to families and school community for your understanding following the cancellation of tonight’s Presentation Evening due to the forecast adverse heat conditions.
We acknowledge that some families, students and staff were disappointed, and we sincerely appreciate the calls and messages of support from families and the respectful and thoughtful feedback that has been shared with the school. Students have been informed today by their classroom teachers.
This decision was made to ensure the health and safety of our students, families, staff and wider school community, following careful consideration of the adverse heat conditions forecast by the Bureau of Meteorology. We also considered the scheduled event time and the location of the event, including the limited capacity to cool the venue, as well as the high number of attendees expected in the space. This decision aligns with Department of Education guidance and advice to support the wellbeing and safety of everyone involved.
We recognise the hard work students have put into learning their Christmas carols. And choir performances. Classroom teachers will provide opportunities for students to showcase their singing by sharing performances with other classes and, where permissions have been granted, posting recordings on Seesaw.
Staffing
Teaching Staff Updates
We say goodbye to Claire Woodfield, who will be joining Invermay Primary School, and wish her all the best in her new role. We also wish Kate Kennedy and her family all the best as she finishes with us to welcome a new addition to the family in February. Shauna Muller has accepted a position at Ballarat Christian College, and we wish her every success. We farewell Kate Antonio, who finishes her Music role this year. With the conclusion of the Tutor Learning Initiative, we say goodbye to Chris Schepis, who led this program with passion and commitment. From our Kindergarten team, we wish Stephanie Ryan and Bethany Mahoney all the very best. Their dedication and care have made a positive and lasting impact on our Kindergarten program.
Taking leave from Miners Rest Primary School in 2026 is Emily Faneco, who will be working at Mt Blowhard and Waubra Primary Schools. Pat Withell will also be taking leave, but we hope to see her around as a CRT from time to time.
We welcome Jessica Booth from Dana St PS, and welcome back Megan Polson and Casey Simpson from family leave. We also welcome Rebecca Mahoney and Charissa Johnson to our Kindergarten.
Education Support Staff Updates
Within our Education Support Staff Team, Bree Tauschke will be leaving Ballarat and relocating to Warrnambool. Kate Radisich and Kiara Powell will also be finishing with us. Both have been valued members of our team, providing great care and support to our students, and we wish them every success in the future.
Transitions
Congratulations to our students for successfully transitioning into their new classrooms last week! Providing this extra opportunity allowed students to familiarise themselves with their new learning spaces, connect with their peers and friends, and, where possible, meet their new teachers. We also extend our thanks to our families for supporting and encouraging these new beginnings, and for helping students embrace the opportunities and relationships that come with this transition.
Departing Families
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our departing families. Your partnership, contributions, and input have been greatly valued at MRK-6. We wish you every success and happiness as you transition to new schools and adventures in 2026.
2026 Start of Year
Staff Resume: Tuesday, 27th January 2026.
Assessment Days: Wednesday, 28th and Thursday, 29th January.
Students will attend their scheduled session for an individual assessment with their classroom teacher. Booking details will be provided.
Curriculum Day (Student-Free): Friday, 30th January.
First Day of Classes for Students: Monday, 2nd February, 2026.
Please Note: Foundation students will not attend every Wednesday during Term One.
I would like to thank our students, families, and school community for an incredibly successful year at Miners Rest Primary School. I would also like to acknowledge our dedicated staff, who go above and beyond every day to support our students, parents, and carers. I wish you all a safe and restful holiday period, and we look forward to continuing our partnership in 2026.
Merry Christmas!
Sarah Bigmore
Acting Principal