Principal's Views

Dear Parents and Carers, 

I hope this newsletter finds you well as we embark on another exciting term. We have some important updates to share, ranging from academic endeavours to school safety initiatives and recent news events. 

Premiers Reading Challenge:

One of the highlights of this term is the upcoming Premier's Reading Challenge. This challenge not only encourages our students to develop a lifelong love of reading but also offers numerous benefits for their cognitive and emotional development. Research has consistently shown that regular reading improves literacy skills, enhances vocabulary, and stimulates imagination. Moreover, it fosters empathy and promotes a deeper understanding of the world around us. I encourage all students to participate enthusiastically, as this challenge offers a wonderful opportunity for personal growth and academic enrichment. 

The Challenge encourages students to set a personal goal to read a set number of books before September. Children from Prep to Year 2 are encouraged to read or ‘experience’ 30 books with their parents and teachers. Children from Year 3 to Year 6 are challenged to read 15 books. All children who meet the Challenge will receive a certificate of achievement signed by the Victorian Premier and former Premiers. 

Look out for information coming soon!

Homework Policy:

In recent years, there has been a growing debate about the efficacy of homework in primary schools. While some argue that it reinforces learning, others question its impact on student wellbeing and family time. At Epping Views we believe in evidence-based practices. At the end of 2023, after careful consideration and examination of current research, we revised our homework policy to align with the latest findings. Our focus remains on quality over quantity, ensuring that homework tasks are meaningful, manageable, and purposeful. All students are required to read each night and we encourage parents to engage in open dialogue with their child about the learning they are doing in class with the support of Seesaw. Examples of student learning on Seesaw can provide a stimulus for discussion, which provides opportunities for students to explain and extend their learning and for children and parents to make links to family life. This supports a balanced approach to learning both inside and outside the classroom. 

Supporting Trauma in the Community:

The recent traumatic events in the news have deeply affected everyone. During difficult times like these, it's crucial to support one another, especially our children who may be struggling to process their emotions. We have included a fact sheet in this newsletter to assist you in supporting your child through these challenging times. Please don't hesitate to reach out to our school wellbeing team if you require additional support or resources.

School Upgrades:

Over the holiday break, significant improvements were made to the school to enhance safety and create a more conducive learning environment. A new fence has been erected around the perimeter of the school grounds to ensure everyone’s safety. Additionally, we have invested in upgrading facilities, including painting and installing new carpets in the Grade 5 portables. The new paths in the nature playground provide easier movement around the area and ensure a safer and better-maintained playing space.

Uniform:

As the temperature drops and winter approaches, it's time to dust off those winter uniforms! At EVPS, we take pride in our school uniform and encourage all students to wear it with pride.

Wearing the winter uniform not only keeps students warm and comfortable during the chilly months but also fosters a sense of unity and belonging within our school community. It also helps maintain a professional and focused atmosphere for learning.

We kindly ask all parents and guardians to ensure that their children are dressed appropriately in the winter uniform each day. If you need any assistance or have questions about the uniform guidelines, please don't hesitate to reach out to the school office.

2025 Foundation Enrolment process: 

Foundation (Prep) enrolments for 2025 are now open. To start Primary School in 2025, your child will need to turn 5 years old by 30 April 2025. Schooling is compulsory for children who have turned 6 years old. If your child is starting Prep in 2025, you will be able to apply to enrol your child via our website 

For more information access the Foundation (Prep) Enrolment Information Pack for Parents / Carers  

The 2025 Foundation Open Evening is on Thursday 9th May please register here to attend.

A few reminders:

• 2025 Prep enrolments are now open
• School photos next Tuesday 23rd and Wednesday 24th April
• Anzac Day next Thursday 25th April – Public Holiday – No School
• First assembly of the term Friday 26th April at 2:45pm
• Mother’s Day Stall – 6th-8th May
• 2025 Prep Information Evening and Tour Thursday 9th May 4:30-5:30pm
• Applications for Secondary Schools due Friday 10th May

Thank you for your continued support and partnership.

Kind regards,

Rachel Griffiths 

On behalf of Mandy

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