School Advisory Council
Our most recent School Advisory Council (SAC) meeting, held in the staffroom on Tuesday 16 June, was a meaningful and energising gathering. It offered a chance to reconnect, share perspectives and reflect on the goals that unite us in supporting the continued growth of our St John's school community.
Moments like these remind us of the strength of collaboration and the value of a shared vision as we move through the year ahead. We look forward with enthusiasm to the initiatives and projects still to come and extend our sincere appreciation to all SAC members for their ongoing commitment and contribution to making this year such a success.
A quick reminder of our SAC Team for 2026 – we’re grateful for their leadership and commitment to shaping the direction of our school. Their guidance continues to support our mission and values across all areas of school life.
Verona Gridley - School Principal
Father Dispin John - Parish Priest (Custodian of Mission)
Melinda Buscema - Deputy School Principal/RE Leader (Custodian of Mission)
Angela Maclean – Chairperson, Parent Representative
Samantha Solomons - Secretary, Parent Representative
Anne Tyedin -Parent Representative
Kate Roberts- Parent Representative
May De Almeida- Parent Representative
Rob Kruisheer - Parent Representative
Leadership and Management
St John’s continues to be in a strong position, with 25 Prep enrolments already confirmed for 2027. This is an encouraging result and reflects the confidence families have in our school.
Preparations for the upcoming School Review are progressing well, with planning documents completed and ready for submission to the external reviewer.
Learning and Teaching
Students will showcase their learning at the upcoming Geography Expo on Wednesday, 24 June, highlighting the projects they have completed throughout the term.
Students have also been enjoying excursions to Yarran Dheran, with Years 3 and 4 students recently participating in engaging and interactive workshops, while Years 1 and 2 will attend their excursion during the final week of Term 2.
Our Prep students celebrated a significant milestone—their first 100 days of school—with a special dress-up day and history-themed incursion. They also welcomed members of the local Fire Brigade, who delivered valuable fire safety education.
Education in Faith
A highlight of the term was Shine Day, which brought the whole school community together in celebration of faith, music and fellowship.
Students participated in inspiring workshops led by Gen Bryant and the Wavemakers, followed by a community picnic attended by many families. Special thanks were extended to the Year 6 student leaders, the talented students who participated in the Talent Quest, Melinda and the organising team and all parents who joined in making the day such a success.
Student Wellbeing and Child Safety
Child safety remains a key priority at St John’s. Updated Child Safety Standards have been introduced, and a new display has been installed in the school foyer. Staff continue to review and discuss one Child Safety Standard each month as part of ongoing professional learning.
The Student Engagement Team continues to meet fortnightly to ensure appropriate wellbeing and mental health support is available for students who need it.
Fr Dispin spoke passionately about our shared responsibility to protect and support vulnerable children and families. He highlighted the importance of helping young people build resilience from an early age and ensuring they know where to seek support when facing challenges. He also emphasised the critical role of faith, family, culture and community in fostering belonging and helping young people navigate adversity throughout their lives.
Angela MacLean - SAC Advisory Chairperson