Acting Principal's Message
Dear Parents and Carers,
It has been a fantastic two weeks at Toorak Primary School, with our students demonstrating resilience, responsibility, and a commitment to doing their best—both in the classroom and out in the yard. Recently, our Year 3 and 5 students undertook NAPLAN testing, and we couldn’t be prouder of their focus and determination. Sitting formal assessments can be challenging, but our students approached them with a positive mindset, perseverance, and a willingness to give their best effort. A huge well done to all our students for showing such dedication and responsibility—we are incredibly proud of you!
Our Grade 6 students recently had an incredible time at camp in Marysville, where they embraced new challenges, stepped outside their comfort zones, and strengthened their connections with peers and staff. When I visited the camp last Thursday it was wonderful to see the students engaging in many outdoor education activities. Through activities like kayaking, a ropes course, team-building challenges, and a bushwalk, students developed resilience, teamwork, and a greater appreciation for one another’s strengths and differences. Camp provided the perfect opportunity to demonstrate our school values of respect, kindness, friendship, responsibility, and honesty while enjoying the great outdoors. It was an unforgettable experience that encouraged personal growth, adventure, and lasting memories!
This Friday, we proudly celebrate Harmony Day, a special occasion highlighting Australia’s rich cultural diversity and reinforcing the values of inclusion, respect, and belonging for all. Harmony Day is a reminder that our differences make us stronger, and at Toorak Primary School, we are committed to creating an environment where every student feels valued, accepted, and supported.
Fostering a culture of inclusion goes beyond one day—it is embedded in our daily interactions, the way we learn from one another, and how we build a strong, respectful community. By embracing diversity in our classrooms, our school, and the wider Australian community, we help shape a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
I look forward to seeing our students proudly wearing their traditional clothing or the colour orange to symbolize harmony and unity.
Together, let’s celebrate the unique backgrounds, traditions, and perspectives that enrich our school and make it such a wonderful place to learn and grow.
The Fathering Project Continues at TPS
We are excited to continue The Fathering Project this year after its successful introduction in 2022. This fantastic initiative is all about strengthening the bond between fathers, father figures, and their children by providing opportunities to connect, engage, and create lasting memories together.
Our first event of the year is happening next week—Pizza and Paper Planes—and we’re thrilled to have such a great turnout! It promises to be a fun and meaningful evening where families can enjoy time together while strengthening their connections.
A huge thank you to Ms. Sara Harris and the organising committee for their dedication in making this event possible.
The Fathering Project plays an important role in supporting child development by encouraging fathers and father figures to take an active and positive role in their children’s lives. We look forward to another fantastic year of connection, fun, and community-building!
Why directly target fathers and father figures?
- We know that an effective father has a profound impact on the health and well-being of a child.
- Children do better in school when their fathers are involved in their school, regardless of whether their fathers live with them or live apart.
- Children whose fathers participate in school activities, meetings and events also enjoy school more, are less likely to have behaviour issues and are more likely to participate in extracurricular activities.
More information can be found here: Why fathers matter - The Fathering Project
Exciting New Playground Coming Soon!
After five years of dedicated fundraising by our incredible school community, we are thrilled to see the installation of our brand-new playground finally underway! This week marked the beginning of construction, with fencing erected, the old equipment carefully removed, and preparations in full swing. In the spirit of generosity and global community support, our old playground equipment will be donated to a school overseas that currently has no play facilities—a wonderful way to extend the impact of our school’s efforts beyond our own students.
One of the most exciting aspects of this project has been the active involvement of our students in its design. Last year, our Junior School Council gathered student feedback to ensure the new playground truly reflects what they love and need for active play. Their voices have helped shape the final design, which includes a spider web climbing structure, a fireman’s pole, two exciting slides, a trampoline, and more!
We are eagerly looking forward to officially opening the playground—hopefully next week! This fantastic addition will provide endless opportunities for students to build friendships, stay active, and develop their physical skills, all while having fun in a safe and engaging environment.
A huge thank you to our school community for making this possible—your generosity and support have created something truly special for our students!
Kind regards,
Sharon Wildermuth
Acting Principal