Principal Message

This week, we acknowledge and celebrate National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June), a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

Throughout the week, students have been unpacking the significance of Reconciliation Week in their classrooms through a range of age-appropriate learning experiences and discussions. These opportunities encourage our students to develop a deeper understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and perspectives, while reflecting on the role they can play in building respectful relationships and a more inclusive future.

On Tuesday, 26 May, I was fortunate to join Sandy Kaye, our School Captains, members of our Student Marrung (Indigenous Perspectives) Team, Mullauna College Principal Mr Ruff, and students from Mullauna College for a very special National Sorry Day Flag Raising Ceremony at the Nunawading Civic Centre. National Sorry Day is an important occasion that acknowledges the strength and resilience of Stolen Generations survivors and remembers the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were forcibly removed from their families, communities and cultures. It was a moving and meaningful ceremony, and I was incredibly proud of our students as they represented our school with respect, maturity and genuine engagement.

On Tuesday evening, we were delighted to host our Fathering Project Term 2 Event, a Campfire Night. Families gathered together to enjoy toasted marshmallows and s'mores, plenty of laughter, and songs around the campfire. Events such as these provide valuable opportunities for children to connect with positive male role models and strengthen relationships through shared experiences. Research consistently highlights the positive impact that engaged and supportive male role models have on children's confidence, wellbeing and sense of belonging, and it was wonderful to see these connections being fostered within our school community.

A big thank you to Isaac Delaney, Nathan Percy and Laura Ellis for their organisation and leadership in making the evening such a success. Their commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for families to connect is greatly appreciated.

School Council was also held this week, with members continuing their important work supporting the strategic direction and governance of our school. I would like to advise families that our next School Council meeting, scheduled for Tuesday 21 July, will be an open meeting. Parents and carers are warmly invited to attend as we unpack our Annual Report to the School Community and provide an overview of the school's strategic direction and 2026 priorities. We look forward to sharing this important information and engaging in conversation with members of our community.

This week, Bron and I also had the opportunity to attend the 2026 Government Schools Principals' Conference at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. This annual conference brings together school leaders from across Victoria to engage with current educational research, government priorities, and innovative practices that support improved outcomes for students. The conference provides a valuable opportunity for principals and school leaders to learn from leading educational experts, share successful initiatives, and collaborate with colleagues from across the state. Attending events such as this ensures that we remain informed about emerging trends in education and continue to strengthen our leadership practices to provide the very best learning opportunities for our students and school community. 

Thank you for your ongoing support of our school. Wishing all of our students and families a relaxing and enjoyable weekend.

Warmly, 

Erin