Principal's Report

Statewide Principal Conference

Ms Scott, Mr. Fielding and I attended the two-day Government Schools annual  principal conference. This is always a great opportunity for leaders in Victorian schools to share ideas and hear from both local and international guest speakers who highlight current research and teaching and learning practices. Topics included the importance and challenges of leadership, curriculum content and strategies, the role of the school community in education and catering for the diverse learning needs of students.

I particularly enjoyed the presentation from Dr Sonia Hood who is the CEO of the North Melbourne football club. She talked about leading organisations through tough times and the importance of having a strong team to support the initiatives required to run a complex, multi-dimensional community.

I feel very privileged to have a great team at Deer Park West Primary School in my Assistant Principals (Ms. Scott and Mr. Fielding), Leading Teachers (Mrs. Rogers & Ms. Mohan) and Learning Specialist (Kim Garro). These senior leaders are instrumental in leading key learning areas of English and Mathematics, student wellbeing strategies and supporting staff, students and our families every single day. 

It was also great to hear from different schools about how they are implementing the English curriculum with a focus on phonics and how they are differentiating the supports for the diverse student cohorts. 

We were also treated to some student performances including a very talented and impressive choir from the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School. 

Thanks to all the staff for taking care of the school in our absence and particularly Mrs. Rogers for stepping into the senior leadership role

Swimming Program

The program is for students in Years 2 to 6 and the first 200 students to return their permission note, medical form and payment will be able to attend. This program is heavily subsidised through the government grants, and we ask that this year parents contribute $20 for this 8-day program to help cover the increasing costs. Please look out for the note which will be sent home shortly.

Junior School Athletics

I am excited to let you know that the Junior school students (F-2) will be participating in some athletics types of activities as part of their PE program. Parents are welcome to attend this session on Tuesday the 10th of June between 11:30am and 1:30pm. The side gate near the Foundation plyaground will be opened after recess time for parents to enter. 

Please remember that adults should not be using the student toilets. Please come and see us at the office.

The School Savings Bonus - Very important information

Please read carefully and seek assistance from the office if anything is unclear.

Important School Saving Bonus (SSB) Reminder

After the 30th June 2025, parents/carers will no longer have access to the SSB portal and will no longer be able to purchase uniform using SSB funds.  Any unspent funds will be allocated to school activities, and will be available for use in August 2025. During the month of July, you will not be able to use SSB funds for school activites unlessyou have allocated funds to school activities prior to 30th June 2025. Please speak to the school office if you have any questions.

In the event that your child transfers to another school, please note that schools will be unable to transfer SSB funds from 13th June until August 2025.

Kind Regards,

Senka King

Principal