Principal Report

It has been an incredibly busy and exciting few weeks at Highvale Primary School, with many wonderful opportunities for our students and community to connect and engage. Students thoroughly enjoyed participating in the Dance Curriculum program, where they developed confidence, teamwork and performance skills. We also celebrated Walk to School Day, promoting healthy habits and active lifestyles, while our Interschool Sports teams demonstrated excellent sportsmanship, teamwork and determination in competition. A highlight for many families was our Mother’s Day Breakfast, which provided a special opportunity to celebrate and thank the important women in our lives. To conclude a fantastic fortnight, we welcomed families into our classrooms during Education Week Open Classrooms, showcasing the learning, creativity and achievements taking place across our school each day. We hope you have enjoyed celebrating these very special events with us across the term so far. 

Welcome to Highvale

Throughout this year, we have had many new families begin their journey at HPS. Welcome to HPS to Atharva K 1P. We are sure you will love being a part of the Highvale community. Please reach out if there is anything we can do to assist with your transition into our school.

Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday to the following students who will celebrate their special day throughout May: Cici S 3C, Austin C 1GC,Harnur L PFY, Charlie D, Gina G 3L, Faraz G, Alice Y 2L, James Z 6T, Joshua D 4C, Harry N 4C, Ethan X 4P, Shiv M PA, Senuth W 6T, Chen X 4P, Nathan W PFY, Adam J 1GC, Shanaa J 1GC, Erica J 3C, Ewen L 2M, Joshua C 6S, Adyashakti G 4G, Violet W 6D, Olivia T 4C, Owen L 4G, Ethan N 2L, Chong ze O 6T, Jackie K 4C, Mikayla L 5S, Quinn L 5M, Navya P 5M, Oliver L PFY. We hope you all have a terrific birthday.

Attendance

At Highvale Primary School we firmly believe that attending school every day plays a crucial role in shaping a child's educational journey. Regular attendance allows students to fully engage in classroom activities, discussions, and hands-on learning experiences. It provides them with the opportunity to grasp new concepts, ask questions and collaborate with their peers. Consistent attendance helps build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills, enabling children to excel academically. This term, we will be reinforcing the importance of attending school every day. 

Congratulations to the 246 students who have achieved 100% attendance in May so far. Some of these students include: Prithvi N PA, Eddy L PA, Jaylian L PFY, Jade L PFY, Atharva K 1P, Ace H 1P, Eli H 1GC, Natalie H 1GC, Emmy H 2M, Danny H 2M, Minghao G 2L, Amaya D 2L, Hayley C 3A, Ian G 3A, Gretel L 3L, Cooper K 3L, Angela L 4C, Vinnie L 4C, Owen L 4G, Chloe Q 4G, Elisha S 4P, Kayden W 4P, Lily M 5E, Tiana P 5E, Hithen M 5M, Steven H 5M, Khloe L 5S, Artus G 5S, Jonathan H 6T, Adriana C 6T, Joshua H 6S, Zoe L 6S, Alastair W 6D and Julia T 6D.

Remember: It is not ok to be away!

Top 100 Government Primary Schools

I am incredibly proud to share with our school community that Highvale Primary School has recently been recognised as one of the TOP 10 primary schools in the state according to the Herald Sun. This outstanding achievement reflects the hard work, dedication and commitment of our students, staff and families, who work together each day to create a positive and high-performing learning environment. This recognition is a testament to the strong partnerships within our community, the high expectations we hold for all learners and our collective focus on continuous improvement and excellence in education. While we are incredibly proud of this achievement, we also acknowledge that there is always more work to do as we continue striving for excellence and ongoing improvement in all areas of school life. We remain committed to providing the very best opportunities and outcomes for every student and thank our entire community for their ongoing support and contribution to this shared success.

Reports

We will be providing student achievement reports for Semester One this year as usual.

The reports will be available on Compass on Friday 19th June. The reports will continue to provide important details about student learning attainment, but full descriptive comments will not be included as a result of industrial action taken earlier this term by the Australian Education Union. We will of course be pleased to discuss with you your child’s progress at the Student Led Conferences scheduled for Tuesday 23rd June. You can contact your child’s teacher via email at any time to arrange a meeting prior to the conferences if you wish.

Temporary closure of Glen Waverley Library 

Glen Waverley Library will temporarily close from Monday 8th June 2026 to make way for construction of Council’s $110 million Glen Waverley Civic Precinct Project – which will start in the second half of the year.  The new facility is expected to be completed in 2028 and will deliver a brand-new library, designed with modern and flexible shared spaces to support learning, creativity, and community connection. Students who utilise Glen Waverley Library to study will need to plan alternate study spaces during the temporary closure. Council continues to support students with study spaces available at:

·       Mount Waverley Library - dedicated bookable study spaces located just two train stops (five-minutes) from Glen Waverley station. 

·       Monash Youth Services - a limited, supervised afterschool safe space for 12–18-year-olds. Online registration is essential as days and spaces are limited.  

Library items should be returned before 8 June 2026, or to another library branch, as the afterhours return chute will not be accessible pending opening of temporary library sites. Temporary library sites will offer smaller collections, with limited express services and spaces, until the completion of our new Glen Waverly Library. We understand these changed conditions will cause disruption, and we are committed to keeping our schools and families updated as works progress. You can learn more at www.monlib.vic.gov.au/library

TheirCare

TheirCare are our before and after school care provider. At Highvale PS Theircare provide a fun, safe and welcoming Before School Care (BSC) and After School Care (ASC) program where children can relax, play, socialise and take part in a range of engaging experiences each week. TheirCare aim to create a home-like environment where children feel comfortable, supported and included. The educators plan activities based on the children’s interests, so the program is always changing and evolving to keep things exciting and enjoyable for everyone.

This term, the weekly clubs include:  

Tuesday ASC: Science Club, where children enjoy different hands-on experiments and STEM activities each week 

Wednesday BSC: Pancake Club, where children help prepare and enjoy breakfast together; Thursday BSC: TC Tucker, which focuses on cooking experiences and healthy eating

Friday BSC: TC Titans Art & Craft Club, where children get creative through painting, drawing, construction and themed craft activities. 

Alongside the clubs listed above, children also enjoy outdoor play, sports, board games, group activities, quiet spaces and opportunities to spend time with friends before and after school.  

TheirCare Feedback Survey 2026

As part of our commitment to providing high-quality care and support for our students and families, we invite parents to complete a short survey regarding our before and after school care provider, TheirCare. Your feedback is highly valued and will help us assess the quality of the program, identify areas of strength and guide future improvements. We appreciate you taking a few minutes to share your thoughts and experiences. If your child has attended TheirCare in the last 18 months, please fill out this short survey: https://forms.gle/Ef9QYZ4tsBn8YFnY8

Free Fresh Fruit Friday

We are excited to introduce a new initiative at HPS called Free Fresh Fruit Friday. Each Friday, students will have access to free fresh fruit supplied through the generous support of Foodbank. This initiative aims to promote healthy eating habits, support student wellbeing and ensures all students have access to nutritious snacks throughout the school day. We are grateful to Foodbank for partnering with our school to support the health and wellbeing of our students and look forward to this becoming a valued part of our school community.

Knox Band Performance

Last Saturday, I was incredibly proud to see both our Symphonic Band and Concert Band perform at the concert held at Wantirna College. Our students showcased their musical talents, dedication and teamwork through outstanding performances that were enjoyed by all in attendance. Opportunities such as these allow students to build confidence, develop their performance skills and celebrate the hard work they have put into their music program throughout the year. We thank our instrumental music teachers Doug, Erin and Justin for organising these opportunities for our students and the HPS families for their ongoing support. Congratulations to all students involved in representing our school so wonderfully on Saturday.

District Cross Country

Congratulations to the following students who represented Highvale Primary School at the District Cross Country Event on Friday 15th May at Lewis Road Reserve:

Under 9/ 10 boys – Calvin C, Akith G, Chen X, Jenil P, Jia Yang M, Oscar S, Roger Z, Weien D, Yuvi M and Harry N.

Under 9/10 girls – Sophie M, Lily M, Zara L, Claire H, Tiya T, Anekha D, Bonnie W, Heidi H, Dhaani S and Talitha H.

Under 11 boys – Anesh S, Ene Z, Mishkaat A, Artus G, Saijan T, Aadhi R, Marwin H, Quinn L, Austen H and Minul P.

Under 11 girls – Cassie H, Emily L, Lilah S, Khloe L, Stella B, Victoria Z, Nikki N, Hirvya N, Navya P and Emma L.

Under 12 boys – Josh C, Aaron P, Keitarou Y, Gavin W, James V, ChongZe O, Adrian C, Michael P, Xiuqi Z and Eelon L.

Under 12 girls – Faith C, Lily M, Kaitlyn W, Ling X, Aleina C, Mikayla L, Yimei L, Ashley C, Violet W and Sara I.

Your commitment, perseverance and positive attitude throughout the competition were outstanding and reflected our school values proudly. Students demonstrated resilience and determination in challenging themselves and supporting one another and we are incredibly proud of their efforts and sportsmanship.

Monash Waverley Division Cross Country

Congratulations to Joshua C 6S and Cassie H 5E for qualifying for the Monash Waverley Division Cross Country, following their wonderful effort at District Cross Country! We wish you all the best of luck next Tuesday 2nd June when you participate at Lewis Road Reserve, Wantirna South. Our school community are so proud of you! 

Run Club

After four sessions, Run Club is proving to be a fantastic success, with students showing great enthusiasm, commitment and energy each week. It has been wonderful to see students encouraging one another, building their fitness and enjoying being active together before school. We thank the staff and families who continue to support this positive initiative and look forward to seeing Run Club continue to grow throughout this term. 

Run Club upcoming sessions

Tuesday 2nd June - 8:15am – 8:45am

Thursday 4th June - 8:15am – 8:45am

Tuesday 9th June - 8:15am – 8:45am

Thursday 11th June - 8:15am – 8:45am

Tuesday 16th June - 8:15am – 8:45am

Thursday 18th June - 8:15am – 8:45am

NO SESSION ON TUESDAY 23RD JUNE – Student Led Conferences

Thursday 25th June - 8:15am – 8:45am

Please see the event on Compass to give permission for your child to join us for the remainder of the term. 

Chess Team

We are excited to announce that Highvale Primary School have established a competitive Chess Team that will represent our school in local competitions throughout the year. The team started with four passionate players and has now grown to a team of 16 students ranging in age from Years One to Year Six. Being part of the chess team provides a wonderful opportunity for students to further develop their strategic thinking, problem-solving and teamwork skills while competing against students from other schools. Our next competition will take place on Wednesday 17th June at Brandon Park Primary School. We look forward to supporting and celebrating the following students as they begin this exciting competitive journey: Jenil P 3A, Max W 2L, Shawn W 4G, Caleb W 2M, Yuvan M 4P, Swanik O 4P, Vishruth M 2L, Walter Z 2L, Aadhi S 6T, Austen H 4P, Vrushank M 2L, Amay S 2M, Tevin R 5E, Bob W 3L, Lucas L 1GC and Omar N 2M. 

Breakfast Club

Highvale Primary School has recently become part of the School Breakfast Clubs Program, delivered by Foodbank Victoria in partnership with the Victorian Government. This wonderful initiative operates across more than 1,000 Victorian state schools and helps ensure students can learn with a full stomach and get the most out of their education. As part of the program, HPS will receive a variety of healthy and nutritious food free of charge from Foodbank Victoria. Beginning Wednesday 3rd June, Breakfast Club will operate every Wednesday from 8:15am–8:45am outside the Wellbeing Hub (undercover area). Students, parents and staff are all warmly invited to attend and enjoy cereal, milk and toasted sandwiches/jaffles with spaghetti or baked beans. Breakfast Club will be proudly prepared and served by our Year Six School Captains, Maya, Aradhya, Keitarou and Minul. We look forward to welcoming our school community to this fantastic new initiative. 

Premiers Reading Challenge

Registrations are now open for the Victorian Premiers' Reading Challenge for 2026!

The Premier’s Reading Challenge is an annual statewide literacy engagement program run across Australia that encourages students to build their literacy skills and develop a lifelong love of reading. Students are challenged to read a range of books throughout the year and celebrate their reading achievements. We encourage all families to sign their child up for this wonderful opportunity. Please contact your child’s classroom teacher, who will assist with registering your child for the challenge. Student usernames and passwords for the Premier’s Reading Challenge website will be sent out shortly.

School Production

Rehearsals for our school production 'Porridge!' are well underway. When a crime wave hits Happy Valley, there's a caseload of mysteries to be solved! It's up to Private Detective Jack Spratt to investigate this community of familiar fairytale and nursery rhyme characters to crack the case! Our fabulous cast have been staying after school on Tuesdays to work on the different scenes. Already we have been so impressed by their talents! Our school community is in for a great night of laughter - we have many future comedians in our school. In Performing Arts classes, each year level will begin learning their song and choreography so they are ready to take the stage in Term 3. Don't forget that we are on the lookout for our official production logo! If you'd like to have a go at designing the 'Porridge!' logo, please see the Compass post from Mrs Sinclair for further details. The winner's logo will be printed on t-shirts and used in the official show program! We look forward to sharing more updates as rehearsals progress!

2026 Attitudes to School Survey

The Attitudes to School Survey (AtoSS) is a student survey offered by the Department of Education every year to help schools and the department understand students' experiences of school. The survey will ask your child about their thoughts and feelings about their school, their learning, relationships with other students, resilience, bullying, health and wellbeing, physical activity, and life in general. At HPS, our Year Four, Five and Six students will complete the survey from Wednesday 3rd June – Tuesday 9th June. 

Public Holiday: Kings Birthday

On Monday 8th June students are not required at school as it is a public holiday. We will see students back onsite on Tuesday 9th June. 

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS 

Kids Help - kidshelpline.com.au phone 1800 55 1800 

Parent Line - betterhealth.vic.gov.au phone 13 22 89 

Headspace - headspace.org.au phone 1800 650 890 

eSafety Commissioner - esafety.gov.au - Advice for parents and carers to help children have safe experiences online 

Have a great week ahead HPS families,

Carly Epskamp

carly.epskamp@education.vic.gov.au