Principal's Message

The end of the year is close, but at SMDP we still have plenty of time for focused learning. 

Our teachers are busy writing reports that will inform families of student achievement this semester. Students are busy consolidating their learning goals that will prepare them for their educational journey ahead. We are determined to provide high quality learning to the very last day. 

As SMDP is a growing school our class structures change from year to year. Some years we have straight classes (Year Prep) while other years we have composite classes (Year 1/2). 

This is part of your child's educational journey at SMDP.  

Staff funding is allocated to schools based on the total number of students, not students at each year/grade level. As enrolments vary from year to year, it is sometimes impossible to form straight grades because the numbers simply do not allow for it nor does our staff funding allocation. 

At SMDP, we have straight (one level) and composite classes (two levels) and these vary from year to year. When you join us, that is part of the deal. 

Research shows there is no discernible difference between ‘composite’ and 'straight' year group classes in terms of academic performance because every class is a composite class filled with students with different learning needs, rates of learning, interests and strengths. Even in straight grades students are working at all different levels. It is the quality of teaching, combined with student interest and engagement that has a greater impact on learning than class organisational structures.

After much discussion and exploring different models, the best structure for 2024 is the same as this year:

• Year P x 2  
• 1/2  x 3  
• 3/4   x 3  
• 5/6  x 3 

Over the last few weeks at our meetings, staff have been working together to allocate students into their new levels. They are committed to ensuring that each class is balanced and that every student is teamed with both a familiar friend and with some students who may be wonderful, potential co-learners.

I ask parents to trust in the process as our teachers are best placed to determine the learning needs of all students. 

As we move towards the end of the year, it is time to say goodbye to two of our staff members who are taking on new adventures. 

Jessica Schembri will be beginning her maternity leave with her new baby due in mid January. She will be busy with her twins as well as her new addition to their family. We wish Jess and Chris good luck as their family continues to grow. 

We also say goodbye to Max Griffin. This year, Max has been with us in as LSO role supporting the Yr 3/4 level. Max will continue to study his teaching degree but has decided to look for alternative work while he's completing his studies. 

In our next newsletter, I will be able to announce our class teachers and specialists for next year. Students will meet their new teachers for next year at our ‘Step Up Transition Day’ on Wednesday 13th December. 

Thanks for your continued support. It is a joy to work with you and your children. I look forward to catching up with everyone at our Christmas carols next week.

Dan Ryan

Principal

St Martin de Porres Primary School is committed to creating an environment where the safety, well-being, and participation of all children within our care is paramount. 

2023 - School Closure Days

Listed below are our school closure days for 2023. These are student-free days. Staff use these days to develop their learning further and keep informed with current practices and procedures.