From Mr Chaplin

Strengthening Student Wellbeing at CEPS

Last week, Mrs Waugh and Mr Chaplin attended a two-day Mental Health in Primary Schools training program, delivered through the University of Melbourne. This professional learning forms part of the department’s broader Schools Mental Health Fund and Menu initiative and is designed to strengthen how schools build social and emotional learning, early intervention processes and clear care pathways for students requiring additional support. The training focused on developing mental health literacy across the school, strengthening whole-school approaches to wellbeing, enhancing early identification and intervention processes, clarifying referral pathways for students with emerging or complex needs, and building staff confidence in supporting students experiencing anxiety, emotional dysregulation or social challenges. 

As part of this initiative, every government primary school receives funding to employ a Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader (MHWL). The MHWL role supports a whole-school approach to mental health and wellbeing for students, staff and families, ensuring our practices are evidence-based, consistent and aligned with departmental policy. At Cheltenham East Primary School, we are committed to embedding strong social and emotional learning programs across classrooms while also refining our tiered supports for students who require additional intervention. This training strengthens our ability to ensure students are supported proactively, consistently and compassionately. 

New Basketball Rings! 

A heartfelt thank you to our incredible Parent Committee and to all families who have supported fundraising efforts over the past few years. Because of your generosity and involvement, we have successfully replaced our basketball backboards. These upgrades are already making a difference during recess and lunchtime, providing safe, high-quality facilities that encourage active play, teamwork and positive peer interaction. Your ongoing support strengthens our school in very practical and visible ways.

Student Safety – Traffic Reminders

We continue to observe unsafe driver behaviour during pick-up and drop-off times. Student safety must remain our highest priority. Please remember: do not drop off or collect students from the middle of the road; avoid stopping directly opposite the main entrance where visibility is limited; use designated crossings and supervised areas; and support younger students when crossing the road. There have been several near misses this term. A few extra moments of care can prevent a serious incident.

Bikes, Scooters and Dogs on School Grounds

A reminder to all families and students: bikes and scooters are not to be ridden within school grounds and students must dismount and walk them once they enter the school gates. Dogs are not permitted on school grounds at any time, including after school hours (with the exception of registered assistance animals). Unfortunately, we have had several instances of students stepping in dog faeces due to irresponsible members of the community not cleaning up after their pets. This creates health risks and unnecessary disruption to learning time. We appreciate your cooperation in reinforcing this expectation. Thank you to our staff, students and families for your continued partnership in making CEPS a safe, supportive and thriving learning environment. When we work together, strengthening wellbeing practices, improving facilities and maintaining clear expectations, we create the best possible environment for every child to flourish.

Welcome Brian Lewin

"Lewin Real Estate is a boutique Bayside agency based in Cheltenham, built on the belief that real estate should be personal, transparent and tailored to every client. Established in 2020, the business was created to meet growing demand for a more client-focused approach — combining deep local knowledge, proven systems and modern technology to deliver better outcomes for buyers and sellers.

In just five short years, Lewin Real Estate has grown into Cheltenham’s premier agency, known for its hands-on service, strong community ties and consistent results across sales, leasing and property management. The team works closely with each client to design bespoke marketing strategies and provide honest advice at every stage of the property journey.

At its core, the company is driven by a simple philosophy: every property — and every client — is different. Lewin Real Estate prides itself on building long-term relationships through integrity, communication and a genuine commitment to achieving the best possible outcome. With a focus on personalised service, collaboration and care, the agency continues to grow while staying true to its local roots and people-first approach."

I hope you all have a safe and enjoyable weekend!

Mr Chaplin