Principals Page

Dear Parents and Carers, 

Welcome to the first edition of The Epsom Gazette! As we draw to the end of another incredible year, it’s a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our shared achievements and celebrate the many successes that have shaped 2024.

This year has been marked by growth, innovation, and connection. Our Grade 6 students have reached a significant milestone, and we couldn’t have been prouder to watch them graduate last night, ready to embrace the exciting challenges of secondary school. Watching them grow into capable, thoughtful, and resilient individuals has been a privilege. Congratulations to all of our award winners, please check the Gazette's Grade 6 Farewell Page for a list of the recipients. To our graduating families, thank you for your partnership over the years, and we wish you every success in this next chapter.

Across the school, we’ve seen tremendous growth in our students, both academically and personally. Our proactive approach to implementing a structured literacy program over the past three years has not only aligned with the new statewide mandate but also positioned our students for success. This evidence-based approach has transformed how literacy is taught at Epsom Primary, and the benefits are evident in our students' progress.

Our 2024 data, reflects our commitment to excellence, with several areas performing close to or above state averages. Bear in mind that when we are comparing to the state scores - that includes all schools across Victoria. Here is a snapshot of some of our achievements:

Scores Close to or Above State Averages:

NAPLAN Results

• Year 3 Writing: 71% (State: 71%)
• Year 5 Writing: 71% (State: 72%)
• Year 3 Numeracy: 70% (State: 68%)
• Year 5 Numeracy: 72% (State: 70%)

Parent Opinion Survey

• School Communication: 85% (State: 80%)
• Teacher Effectiveness: 88% (State: 84%)
• Student Wellbeing Support: 90% (State: 85%)
• Parent Participation: 82% (State: 78%)
• School Improvement: 87% (State: 83%)
• Confidence in Child's Learning: 89% (State: 84%)

Staff Survey

• Staff Professional Collaboration: 82% (State: 78%)
• Support for School Improvement: 85% (State: 80%)
• Leadership Support: 88% (State: 83%)
• Overall Job Satisfaction: 86% (State: 82%)
• Collegial Relationships: 90% (State: 85%)
• Professional Development Opportunities: 84% (State: 80%)

Student Attitudes to School Survey

• Teacher-Student Relations: 89% (State: 84%)
• School Safety: 92% (State: 88%)
• Learning Confidence: 85% (State: 81%)
• Sense of Connectedness: 88% (State: 83%)
• Effort: 90% (State: 86%)
• High Expectations for Success: 91% (State: 88%)
• Stimulated Learning Environment: 87% (State: 84%)

Attendance

• Average Attendance Rate: 94% (State: 91%)

As a school, we are really happy with this trajectory - it takes a village, and we are grateful to you for being our partners in learning.

In 2025, we will be operating in composite class model for Grades 3/4 and 5/6. Composite classes offer many benefits, including providing opportunities for leadership and mentorship as older students support younger classmates. Teachers cater to a broad range of abilities within every classroom, managing learning levels spanning at times to four years. Classroom learning is scaffolded to allow for this and ensures that every student’s needs are met. Composite classes also enable greater social opportunities, as students interact with a wider range of peers, fostering collaboration, leadership, inclusivity, and resilience. Grade 6 students will still be afforded the privileges that come with reaching this final stage of primary school.

This year, we also saw the launch of the Green Nest - our sustainability hub that is going to have a big impact on student engagement in 2025. With features like the greenhouse, Vegie Pods, chicken coop, frog pond, and hydroponic systems, the Green Nest will continue to bring hands-on sustainability education to life. A yard has been built in the back corner for a new trial program - this will start in Term 1 and will include a surprise animal.  Special thanks to the Food Ladder team and all who have supported this exciting venture.

The student voice has been amplified this year through the leadership of our School Captains, Junior School Council, baring djuwima (Young Aboriginal Leaders), and House Captains. These students have represented their peers with enthusiasm and have influenced positive change across the school. A handful of these leaders met with Wendy Lovell - MP for Northern Victoria Region and Leader of the Opposition, John Pesutto, to give them a tour around the school - including the learning environment, bush tucker garden, our green house and even individual chickens! 

Behind every achievement is a network of support from our families and broader community. Whether it’s cheering on our students at the Mini-Olympics, contributing to the Green Nest, or participating in the new initiatives, your involvement has enriched our school. A special thank you to our incredible staff, who truly go above and beyond every day, your work is seen and appreciated.

As we look ahead to 2025, we remain committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and dynamic environment where all students can thrive. We hope The Epsom Gazette becomes a quarterly celebration of all that makes our school special and keeps you informed and connected with what’s happening across the terms.

Good luck to all students and parents who have been shortlisted for the annual 'Epsom's Got Talent'...from what I have been told, there is some stiff competition!

Thank you for your continued support, and best wishes for a joyful holiday season with your loved ones. We look forward to seeing you all in the new year for another chapter of learning and growth.

Kind regards

Julie Ladd

Principal