Principal's Report

Term 3

Who would believe that this is the last week of Term 3!  Such a year it has been so far, and as a Principal, since joining the school in 2024, the previous seven terms have just flown past, and it is so pleasing as we reflect on all that has been done so far.  

During the term break, we are continuing to complete work around the school. This will include implementing the requirements from our recent tree audit. Whilst I understand that cutting down trees is something we don't want, as we love the 'country feel' around the school, we have had several trees identified that need to be removed. At all times, the safety of all at Whittlesea Primary School continues to be a priority, so removing these trees is necessary to ensure that everyone continues to be safe. Wherever possible, we will use the timber from these trees to continue to enhance our school grounds.  

Student-Led Conferences

I want to acknowledge and thank all of our families for participating in our Student-Led Conferences on Wednesday of this week. We are very fortunate at WPS to have a strong community connection that allows us to openly share and celebrate the learning achievements we have made so far in 2025. 

At Whittlesea Primary School, we believe that learning is most powerful when students take an active role in sharing their progress. That’s why student-led conferences are such an essential part of our approach. During these conferences, it was so great to hear about how the students take the lead in presenting their learning, sharing examples of their work, and reflecting on their achievements and challenges. This process helps children develop valuable skills, including confidence, responsibility, and clear communication. Students need to learn to take ownership of their growth and celebrate their successes.

For our families, the student-led conferences offer a unique opportunity to gain insight into the classroom. Rather than simply hearing from teachers, families get to see and hear their child’s learning journey firsthand. These conferences strengthen the partnership between home and school, encourage a growth mindset, and remind every child that their voice is valued and matters. Together, we celebrate effort, progress, and the overall 'learning journey'.

Progressive Reports (Learner Dispositions)

Learner dispositions shape how students learn, not just what they learn. 

They are essential because they:

• Encourage lifelong learning by fostering curiosity and adaptability.
• Build resilience to handle challenges and learn from mistakes.
• Promote independence and self-motivation in learning.
• Support collaboration through empathy, respect, and teamwork.

At Whittlesea Primary School, our reports cover the dispositions of:

• Interpersonal Skills & Organisation 
• Responsiblity & Behaviours 
• Persevance & Effort 
• Collaboration & Teamwork
• Initiative & Focus 
• Emotions & Self-regulation 

Developing these dispositions helps students succeed academically and prepares them for life beyond the school environment. 

Please take the time to talk to your child/children about these dispositions, as these are now 'live' on Compass. 

Lastly, I would like to wish everyone a very happy and safe Term 3 holiday break. 

Enjoy the footy finals and hopefully your team wins! 

Kaylene