Principal's Desk
As we approach the end of a busy and successful Term 1, it’s a great time to reflect on the routines and supports that help set our students up for success each day, while also celebrating the many positives across our school community.
Preparing for a Great Day at School
Strong learning habits begin before students even arrive at school. A consistent morning routine makes a significant difference to engagement, wellbeing, and achievement. A nutritious breakfast helps fuel concentration and energy for the day ahead. We encourage families to be mindful of sugar content in cereals and to aim for balanced, healthy options where possible.
Arriving on time is equally important. Classrooms are open at 8:35am, providing students with time to settle in and prepare for learning before the 8:45am start. While we’ve seen pleasing improvements, a small number of students are still arriving late. Being in the classroom, settled and ready before the second bell, ensures students don’t miss valuable learning time.
A good night’s sleep is another key factor. Most primary-aged children require around 10 hours of sleep each night. Reducing screen time before bed and encouraging calming routines, such as reading, can support better sleep and improved focus at school.
By prioritising healthy eating, punctuality, and consistent sleep routines, we can continue to support every child to thrive at Park Ridge Primary School.
Tutoring and Support Programs in 2026
We are pleased to once again offer a range of targeted support programs in 2026. Through the Tutor Learning Initiative (TLI), students identified using NAPLAN data will receive additional support in small groups, in line with Department of Education guidelines. These sessions run for approximately one term and focus on high-impact teaching strategies to accelerate learning growth.
Our 2026 tutors; Kelly Begley, Tarryn Bryant, and Shae Edwards, will be supporting students across a range of areas including mathematics, reading, phonics, writing, social learning, and emotional wellbeing.
Families will be notified if their child is selected to participate in the program.
School Council AGM & 2026 Office Bearers
Last week we held our School Council AGM, where we thanked our outgoing members for their contribution and welcomed new representatives.
Congratulations to our 2026 office bearers:
President: Courtney Sanderson
Vice President: Fiona Henderson
Treasurer: Ursel Kulessa
Minute Taker: Chris Conway
DET Executive: Dale Blythman
We look forward to working together to continue strengthening our school community.
Park Ridge Pride in Action
We continue to be incredibly proud of the way our students demonstrate confidence, kindness, and school spirit each day.
This was particularly evident last Wednesday during our House Athletics Day, where students supported and encouraged one another, showing great resilience and respect. A big thank you to Mr. Davey for his organisation of such a successful and enjoyable event.
Our Commitment to Child Safety
Park Ridge Primary School is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for every child. We have zero tolerance for child abuse and strictly uphold the Child Safe Standards.
Our policies and practices support all students, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, those from culturally diverse backgrounds, students with disabilities, and children in out-of-home care.
Further information is available on the Child Safe Standards page of our school website, including links to relevant support organisations.
Important Dates & End of Term Reminder
Term 1 concludes this Thursday, with a 2:15pm finish. Please ensure arrangements have been made for student pick-up.
As always, Carrie, Brendan, and I are available if you need to get in touch—our doors are always open.
We wish all of our families a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable Easter break, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back on Monday 20 April.
Take care,
Mr. Dale Blythman