Message from the Principal

Dear families 

I’m looking forward to this week’s P&C Meeting. Last month we had an excellent turnout, with several new parents joining us for the discussions. It was wonderful to see familiar and fresh faces and welcome new members into our school community. Your participation and input make these meetings vibrant and productive, and I encourage all families to come along, share ideas, and help shape the direction of our school together. 

P&C Meeting – Tuesday 17 March 2025

Everyone is welcome to join us for our P&C meeting tonight, at school or via Teams. In the staffroom, from 7.00 pm starting on Teams at 7.30 pm. 

Microsoft Teams meeting  

Join:https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/41823196634863?p=17YFC4Z71C3XcVGQW1  

Meeting ID: 418 231 966 348 63  

Passcode: zd3k67Kj

School Communication: Questions and Answers

Good communication helps keep parents informed and connected with teachers. When families and staff work well together, students do better socially, emotionally, and at school. 

Q: How can I contact my child’s teacher or executive staff (such as Assistant Principal, Deputy Principal, or Principal)? 

A: Parents are encouraged to reach out whenever they have questions or concerns. You can approach staff before or after school or email the school. We understand it can be difficult to catch teachers in person due to their busy schedules. For this reason, email is often the best way to get in touch. It ensures your message is received and gives staff the opportunity to respond by phone or arrange a convenient time for a meeting. Interpreter support is available for families who need it. 

Q: I have a concern. When should I contact the school? 

A: Contacting us early is important. Early communication allows us to address challenges quickly and positively. Teachers value your insights about your child’s needs, strengths, and interests, which helps us provide targeted support. 

Q: Will the school contact me if there is a concern about my child? 

A: Yes. Teachers or executive staff will contact you directly if any issues arise that affect your child’s learning, behaviour, or wellbeing. This might include academic progress, classroom participation, friendships, or concerns raised by your child. 

Q: How can I find out how my child is going in their learning? 

A: Parents are welcome to request a meeting, either in person or by phone, at any time to discuss their child’s progress. Academic reports are distributed each semester, and parent-teacher interviews are scheduled shortly after to provide an opportunity for more detailed conversations about your child’s learning and development. 

Q: What’s the best way to provide feedback to the school? 

A: We welcome your feedback. You may share it with your child’s teacher, approach Miss Parada, or email the school directly. Additionally, we often conduct feedback surveys to capture the views of our broader school community. 

Q: Information seems to come from so many sources—can communication be streamlined? 

A: We understand that families have diverse preferences and we aim to minimise important information being missed by using multiple communication channels to keep everyone informed: 

School Bytes app: School-wide updates, event calendars, attendance records, permission notes, and real-time reminders. 

Email: For personalised or confidential communication. 

SMS alerts: For urgent or time-sensitive announcements. 

Paper notes: For forms requiring physical signatures or when other methods have been unsuccessful. 

Naavi newsletter: User-friendly newsletters with translation support. 

Facebook: For reminders and community engagement. 

WhatsApp groups (managed by P&C): For parent-to-parent communication. 

Phone calls and face-to-face meetings: For detailed discussions and support. 

Translation services: Available for families who speak languages other than English. 

Q: Who oversees communication at the school? 

A: The Principal and our Communications Officer, who is part of the executive team, manage newsletters, social media, notices, and surveys. They work closely with staff to ensure your feedback is addressed and to continuously improve how information is shared. 

Q: What are Parent Information Sessions and how can I get involved? 

A: We regularly offer sessions and workshops to keep families informed and supported. For example, upcoming sessions include one tailored for new Kindergarten families to address questions, gather feedback, and explain school routines. Last year, we ran sessions on cyber safety, academic reports, and transitions (Kindergarten, Years 2 to 3, and high school). These events provide important opportunities to connect with staff and other parents. 

Q: Why did the school switch from Sentral to School Bytes? 

A: Based on parent feedback, we moved to School Bytes because it is easier to use, offers convenient payment options, and provides quick access to permission notes and forms. Its streamlined interface reduces confusion. We continue to add features to enhance the app’s functionality. 

Q: How do I find up-to-date information about the school? 

A: Our weekly newsletter includes the school calendar, the principal’s report, flyers, student achievements, and more. The school website is regularly updated and serves as a central hub with detailed information about programs, extracurricular activities, policies, staff contacts, and answers to common questions. The Parent Handbook is also available on the website.  

Q: Does the school want to hear from parents? 

A: Yes! Your suggestions help us improve communication, organise better events, and provide more effective support. Parent involvement is key to creating a welcoming and inclusive school community. 

Q: Who should I contact for more information or to share feedback? 

A: Please contact Miss Parada, send an email to the school, or speak directly with your child’s teacher. We value your partnership—strong communication helps every child to thrive! 

If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. Together, we can continue to build a supportive and connected school community.