Dear Parents/Guardians,

Bullying No Way Week 17-21st August 2026.

The theme for 2026 has been 'Small Acts, Big Impact.' This week we encourage students, families and communities to engage in small acts that can have a big impact against bullying. We watched a presentation and lessons dedicated to being an upstander during class time. We invite students to come dressed with a touch of purple Tomorrow - Friday 21st August.

Character Dress up Parade -

Next week 24th- 28th August is Book Week. We will hold our annual Book Character dress up parade at 9:15am on the Friday. Students are encouraged to come to school dressed as their favourite book character. Family and friends are welcome to join us for the parade. The theme for this year is a 'Symphony of Stories'.

2026 Attitude to school results

In term 2 our grade 4-6 students completed the 'Attitude to Schol Survey' which is run by the department and we couldn't be prouder. As you can see our kids feel connected, included and safe and we sit higer than similar schools and the State in almst every area. Well done everyone!

Parent Opinion Survey Open (17th Aug -18th September)

Invitations with survey links and log in details for the Parent Opinion Survey were emailed to families via XUNO on Monday 17th August. We value your feedback and want to hear what you have to say about our lovely school. Last year we had a record 41 parents log on.

Raffle Ticket offer - Once again families who complete the survey will enter our raffle as a thank you. To enter, please screen shot or print the screen to show the office you have completed the survey. You will then receive a ticket in the draw to win a $200 RBN voucher. (Rochester Business Network)

Pupil free days - 2026

At the School Council meeting on Tuesday night we locked in the remaining 2 pupil free days for this year.

Thursday 8th of October. (Supports families wanting to attend the Elmore field day) On this day staff will visit other schools to observe best practice & planning.

Monday 2nd November (This is the day before Melbourne Cup day - giving families the option to take an extra long weekend if they wish to). This will be the staff professional practice day.

Trading Toys

Just a friendly reminder staff are not responsible for student 'Ooshies' or other personal belongings brought to school. If students give, trade or swap items staff will not spend unnecessary learning time sorting the issue out. Please encourage your child to leave their treasured possessions at home.

Student Report Updates

The Department of Education has updated its student reporting policy to support a more consistent approach to reporting student achievement and progress across Victorian schools. These changes are designed to make reports clearer and more meaningful for parents, while also reducing the administrative burden on teachers.

Where comments are included, they will provide clear, plain-English information about what students have learned and the progress they have made throughout the reporting period.

The updated reporting format will also improve the consistency of information shared when students transition between schools, particularly from primary to secondary school. Statewide implementation is expected by Semester 1, 2027, and we will continue to keep families informed as further information becomes available.

At Rochester Primary School, we are currently exploring these changes and are hoping to introduce and trial the new reporting format during Semester 2, 2026, ahead of the statewide implementation timeline.

XUNO - Not receiving XUNO messages?

If you are not receiving email notifications and messages or have trouble logging in to XUNO, there is a very big chance there is an issue with the email we have recorded on the school system or your password needs resetting. Please contact the office to have this checked and fixed.

Kate Whitford

Community News -