Principal's Desk

Term One Outer East Area Principal Forum

Last week, our Principal Team had the opportunity to attend the Term One Outer East Area Principal Forum, where school leaders from across our region came together to collaborate and learn. These forums are an important part of ensuring we remain informed, forward-thinking, and aligned with the latest developments in education.

We heard updates from Department of Education leaders including John Roberts, Acting Executive Director of the Outer East, and Karen Money, Director of the North East Victoria Region. Their insights into statewide priorities and emerging challenges help guide our ongoing work at Park Ridge Primary School.

A key focus of the day was the Victorian Teaching and Learning Model 2.0 (VTLM 2.0), particularly strengthening a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS). At Park Ridge Primary School, MTSS underpins how we ensure every student receives the right support at the right time.

• Tier 1 is high-quality classroom teaching for all students. This includes clear learning goals, differentiated instruction, and positive behaviour supports to help every child succeed.
• Tier 2 provides additional small-group support for students who may need extra assistance in areas such as reading, mathematics, or social skills. These supports are targeted, time-limited, and carefully monitored.
• Tier 3 offers intensive, individualised support for students with more complex or ongoing needs. This may include personalised learning plans and collaboration with families and specialists.

This structured and proactive approach ensures we regularly review student progress and adjust supports as needed. Most importantly, we work in partnership with families so that every child can thrive.

2026 Excursions, Incursions, and Camps

Our teachers have been busy planning an exciting range of excursions and incursions for 2026. These experiences bring learning to life, providing hands-on opportunities that enrich classroom programs and create lasting memories for students.

We understand that the cost of school activities can add up. With this in mind, staff have carefully considered affordability when planning experiences. Throughout the year, we will monitor and space out activities across year levels to help manage additional costs for families. Detailed information about each event will always be shared well in advance.

School Camping Program

Planning for our 2026 camping program is already well underway, with bookings secured across all year levels. Camps are a valued part of our school program, helping students build independence, resilience, confidence, and teamwork in a supportive environment.

Each year level experience is thoughtfully designed to gradually extend students’ confidence and comfort zones:

• Foundation – Healthy Day (a fun and active day at school)
• Year 1 – Extended Day on-site
• Year 2 – Day Camp at Oasis Camp
• Year 3 – 2-day camp at Ferngully Lodge (first overnight experience)
• Year 4 – 3-day camp at Mount Evelyn Discovery Camp
• Year 5 – 3-day camp at Campaspe Downs
• Year 6 – 3-day camp at Camp Rumbug

Families will receive detailed information about their child’s camp well in advance (if not already provided).

Helping Out Around the School

We warmly encourage families to become involved in school life. Parent and carer involvement makes a meaningful difference to our community and supports positive outcomes for students.

There are many ways to contribute, including:

• Assisting in classrooms or on excursions
• Supporting the library
• Contributing to fundraising initiatives
• Joining School Council or one of its sub-committees

If you are interested in getting involved, please speak with your child’s teacher or keep an eye on our Newsletter, Compass posts, and Compass newsfeed for opportunities.

Please note that all volunteers require a current Working With Children Check. A copy must be provided to the school office prior to volunteering. Information and applications are available online via the Victorian Government website. Our Visitor and Volunteer policies are also available on the school website under School Policies.

Accident Insurance and Personal items brought to school 

The Department of Education does not provide personal accident insurance for students. Parents and carers are generally responsible for the cost of medical treatment, including transport costs, if their child is injured.

Low-cost accident insurance policies are available through commercial providers. Families seeking personal cover may wish to explore options such as EBM Insurance Brokers (studentcover.com.au).

Similarly, the Department of Education (including the school) does not replace personal items that are lost, damaged, or stolen. We recommend that sentimental or expensive items, including toys, sports equipment, and electronic devices, remain at home where possible.

Starting School Resources for Families

As we have settled back into the 2026 school year, we would like to share the following information about department services and resources with our families.

Transition tips 

Starting school, particularly Foundation or transitioning to secondary school,  is an exciting milestone. Advice in multiple languages to support a positive start is available through the Department’s “Tips for Starting School” resource.

Help with school costs

If you are experiencing difficulty with school costs, please contact Chris Conway, our Business Manager. Support programs such as Affordable School Uniforms (in partnership with State Schools’ Relief) and the Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF) may assist eligible families. Further information is available via the Department’s “Help with School Costs and Fees” resource.

Health and wellbeing

The Department’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Toolkit offers practical guidance for supporting your child’s wellbeing at home and information about accessing help if concerns arise.

What to expect at school

A range of information for parents and carers,  including school policies, expectations, and support services, is available on the Department’s website under “Attending School” and “Building a Positive Relationship with Your Child’s School.”

Please feel free to pop in for a chat with either Carrie, Brendan or I, should you wish to discuss anything. 

Our doors are always open! 

Take care,

Mr. Dale Blythman