From the Principal
Celebrating Excellence: IB Evaluation Affirms Our School Community
This week marked a proud milestone for Murrumbeena Primary School as we welcomed two International Baccalaureate (IB) evaluators for our five-year evaluation for continued accreditation as an IB World School. Over two days, the evaluators immersed themselves in the life of our school. They visited classrooms, observed teaching and learning, and met with students, staff, parents and School Council members to see first hand how the IB Primary Years Programme is brought to life each day. It was an opportunity to showcase not only the quality of our teaching and learning, but also the vibrant culture and strong sense of belonging that defines our school.
Although we will not receive the official report for several weeks, the evaluators shared glowing reflections before departing. They praised our warm, inclusive and supportive learning environment, the genuine care shown to every student, and the confidence, engagement and pride our students have in their school.
They also recognised the strength of the partnership between our families and staff, describing our students as our greatest ambassadors. In what was perhaps the highest compliment they could offer, they told us they would "send their own grandchildren to Murrumbeena Primary School in a heartbeat." This wonderful affirmation reflects the collective efforts of our dedicated staff, the outstanding leadership of Assistant Principal and PYP Coordinator Mrs Angela Houghton, and our supportive families.
Together, we have created a school community where every child is known, challenged and inspired to thrive, something of which we are incredibly proud.
Victorian Educators Continue to Lead the Nation
This week, the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) released the 2026 NAPLAN results, with Victorian students once again achieving some of the strongest outcomes in the country. Victorian schools ranked first or second in 16 of the 20 NAPLAN assessments, improved in more than half of all tests compared to 2025, and recorded the nation's highest Year 3 Numeracy results. Victoria also had fewer Year 3 students requiring additional support than any other jurisdiction.
These results are a testament to the dedication and expertise of Victorian teachers, education support staff and school leaders. While education is often in the headlines for the challenges it faces, achievements like these deserve equal recognition. Our educators continue to make a remarkable difference in the lives of young people every day, and that is something worth celebrating.
Parent Opinion Survey
While our parents and school council members celebrated many aspects of the school in the recent IB Evaluation, it’s now time to share your opinion through the Education Department’s annual ‘Parent Opinion Survey’. The survey will open on Monday 17th August so closer to that time, we’ll be sending details for how to access the survey.
A Fantastic Day at the Athletics Carnival
Last Friday, our annual Athletics Carnival at Duncan McKinnon Athletics Track was a wonderful celebration of sport, teamwork and House spirit. Blessed with perfect conditions, sunny skies and comfortable temperatures, our students embraced every event with enthusiasm, determination and outstanding sportsmanship, cheering each other on while proudly earning points for their House.
A sincere thank you to our PE teacher, Mr Todd Pullar, whose exceptional organisation ensured the day ran seamlessly from start to finish. Thank you also to our dedicated staff and parent volunteers who generously gave their time to demonstrate events, assist with activities, and record times and distances. Events like these are only possible because of our wonderful school community. We look forward to Mr Pullar and our House Captains announcing the overall House Champion at this week's assembly!
Have Your Contact Details Changed?
Have you recently moved house or changed your phone number or email address? Please remember to let the school office know as soon as possible so we can keep your family records up to date. Having current contact information ensures we can reach you quickly if your child becomes unwell or in the event of an emergency. Thank you for helping us keep our records accurate.
Helping Keep Our School Healthy
As we continue through the winter months, we ask all families to help us keep our school community healthy. Please encourage your child to wash their hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and stay home if they are feeling unwell. While the pandemic may be behind us, wearing a mask when experiencing cold or flu symptoms remains a simple and considerate way to reduce the spread of illness and protect others. By working together and reinforcing these healthy habits at home and at school, we can help keep our students and staff well throughout the season.
Chellee Plumb