Principal's Report

Dear Parents and Carers,

As we approach the end of Term 1, I want to take a moment to reflect on the fantastic achievements and events that have taken place at our school.

Enrolment Tours

Enrolment tours for prospective 2026 Prep students have commenced, with a total of ten scheduled across Term 1 and Term 2. Our student leaders are actively involved in engaging with visiting families. If you do have a child who will be attending our school in 2026, please see the office for more details about enrolments. We also have a dedicated section on our school’s webpage at www.somervilleps.vic.edu.au/enrolments/.

NAPLAN

Our students participated in NAPLAN from 12th March with each student completing four tests in Years 3 and 5. 

Preparation for NAPLAN begins from Prep, with a focus on problem-solving and thinking skills to assist with the concepts that are taught. Targeted support is provided in the years leading up to NAPLAN. While NAPLAN is only one measure of student achievement, it provides a valuable insight into school performance.

Results are predicted to be finalised and received, with individual student and whole-school reports to follow in August.

Exciting Engagement Events

Our students have participated in several events this term, some of these include:

• Colour Fun Run – A fantastic community event (despite the slime!)
• School Cross Country
• Excursions to:
  • Student Leadership Day (City)
  • SEEC Melbourne Garden and Flower Show
  • Werribee Zoo (Year 4s)
  • Fire Station (Prep)
  • Immigration Museum (Year 6)
• Upcoming Event: Easter Bonnet Parade (Friday)

School Review – Curriculum Day (24th April)

On the 24th April there is a Curriculum Day whereby our staff will be engaged in conversation regarding the next School Strategic Plan (SSP). Recently teaching staff have been reviewing the previous SSP (2020-2024) which showed strong achievement in many areas. 

A survey will be coming out shortly for parents and carers regarding aspects of our school to help provide a wider view of what we do well and how we can continue to improve.

The Curriculum Day next term will focus on the school’s future direction while ensuring continuity in our strengths and values.

Annual Implementation Plan (AIP) – Writing & SWEB

Writing

The Curriculum Day on 21st March based on Writing was a success, with Narissa Leung (Writing 6+1 leader in Australia) facilitating. Key takeaways included:

• Understanding student knowledge (interests, history)
• Pedagogical knowledge (teaching processes and practices)
• Content knowledge (curriculum needs)
• Effective and engaging writing instruction strategies

School-Wide Expected Behaviours (SWEB)

Our SWEB framework continues to show positive impact as a Tier 1 support system. Development is ongoing across all tiers, with improved alignment of language and processes across the school.

Parent Communication & Achievement Statements

Achievement statements will be distributed this week for English and Mathematics. Please check Compass to see your child’s progress. This is an additional way we are able to provide up to date information around the curriculum outside of the traditional report and parent/teacher interview meetings.

Facilities Update – COLA

The construction of the Covered Outdoor Learning Area (COLA) has commenced, with an expected completion date of 17th April. We are hoping that this can be utilised at the start of next term.

Thank You!

Thank you to our incredible students, staff, and families for making Term 1 such a success. I wish you all a safe and enjoyable holiday break, and I look forward to seeing everyone refreshed and ready for Term 2!

Warm regards,

Jamie Sharp

Principal