From our Principal

Mini Woolies Program Taking Shape

Excitement is building as preparations continue for the launch of our Mini Woolies program.

This week, Woolworths and Fujitsu have been transforming the old art room into a realistic supermarket environment, complete with cash registers, shelving, fresh produce displays and signage.

A group of Senior Secondary students have commenced training to operate the cash registers and develop their customer service skills. Through these hands-on experiences, students are building communication, numeracy, teamwork and workplace readiness skills in a meaningful and engaging setting. Students across the school will also have opportunities to shop in a supported environment, helping them develop confidence, independence and everyday life skills through authentic learning experiences.

Over recent weeks, we have been working closely with Woolworths planning the program to prepare for its official launch on Wednesday 24 June. The Mini Woolies store will provide a valuable learning environment where students can practise everyday life skills while building confidence and independence.

We look forward to sharing more updates and celebrating the opening of our Mini Woolies store in coming weeks. 

Communication Review 

Outcomes 

This term, a review panel made up of school staff and parent representatives has been working together to review and strengthen home–school communication across our school community.

The panel reviewed our current communication methods, including newsletters, emails, phone calls, communication books, Compass, SSG meetings, and face to face meetings. Six priority areas for improvement were identified:

• Communication access for EAL families
• Sharing student photos with families
• Home–school communication processes
• Sharing class timetables
• Student Support Group (SSG) meetings
• Post-school pathways and transition planning

Following three review meetings, several recommendations have been developed.

Key Improvements

Improved communication access for EAL families

A clearer process for interpreter bookings and translated communication will be implemented to ensure all families can access school information and participate fully in meetings.

Transition to electronic home–school communication

Home–school communication books will gradually transition to an electronic model using Compass and teacher education email addresses. This will provide families with more timely and consistent communication.  

Increased sharing of student learning

Classroom teachers will provide weekly Compass updates, including photos (where permission has been provided) and brief descriptions of learning and achievements. Teachers will also provide regular email updates to families.

Class timetables available on Compass

From Term 3, class timetables will be published on Compass, giving families greater visibility of classroom programs and specialist sessions.

Enhanced Student Support Group (SSG) meetings

A revised SSG agenda and optional pre-meeting parent discussion form will be introduced to strengthen parent voice, student participation, and collaborative goal setting.

Improved post-school transition planning

Work has commenced on developing clearer information, timelines and resources to support students and families as they prepare for post-school pathways.  Many of these important transition processes have already been occurring throughout the year; however, the new framework will provide a more consistent and transparent approach. Clear timelines and key milestones will help families and staff understand the steps involved and ensure students are well supported as they plan for life beyond school.

The priority improvements will begin implementation during Terms 3 and 4, with ongoing consultation and support provided to families and staff throughout the transition. Parent information and training sessions will be held during SSG Week in Term 3 to support families in understanding the new communication processes. Further details will be shared closer to the time.

We would like to thank the parent representatives and staff members who have contributed their time, ideas, and expertise to this important review process.

We invite you to read a more detailed review report: