From the Principal

Dear families,

Class Placement for 2026

The process of forming 2026 classes has now commenced. In the coming weeks, students will be asked to nominate five learning buddies, which will be one of several factors considered in the class placement process.

Please note that we are unable to accept requests for specific teachers or classmates. The class placement process is a thorough and collaborative process, taking into account academic progress, social and emotional needs, friendship dynamics, and individual circumstances. 

Over several weeks, classroom teachers, specialist staff, and school leadership work together to create balanced and supportive classes that best meet the needs of all Willy Kids.

If you believe there is important information specific to your child that should be considered in this process, please email me directly by Friday 24 October. While we maintain records of previous class placement information, we cannot guarantee that past considerations automatically carry over—so we kindly ask families to resend any relevant details by this date.

The school’s Class Placement Policy is attached for your reference.

Transition Programs

As we move through Term 4, preparations are already well underway to support the many transition programs that will take place across the school in the coming weeks.

Our 2026 Prep families will soon begin their transition journey, starting with the Prep Information Night, where new parents will be welcomed and introduced to life at Williamstown Primary School.

At the other end of the school, our Year 6 students are preparing for the next big step—transitioning to secondary school. With around 80% of our students continuing on to Williamstown High School, our staff will be meeting with Willy High leadership and the Year 5/6 teaching team to discuss each student’s individual learning and wellbeing needs. These discussions will be followed by a series of transition experiences, including the official statewide transition day on Tuesday 9 December. Students attending other secondary schools will also take part in their respective transition programs.

Across the school, all students will participate in our annual Step-Up Day on Tuesday 9 December, where they will meet their 2026 classmates and teacher. This is complemented by a range of other transition activities designed to build familiarity and confidence as students prepare for the year ahead.

While change can sometimes feel daunting, it is always inspiring to see how resilient and adaptable children are. Our staff work closely with every student to ensure they feel supported—recognising that, just like in learning, the support each child needs may look a little different. Please rest assured that our team is dedicated to helping all students make a smooth and positive transition.

Thank you for your understanding and support as we work through this complex but important process. 

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

Seaside Fair 2025

Seaside Fair Funds Supporting Playground Upgrades

We’re excited to share that funds raised from our 2025 Seaside Fair will go directly towards improving our outdoor play and recreation spaces. The upgrade will focus on the area under the large shade sail and beneath the trees along the name paver path next to the bike rack.

This project will include reboarding around the trees to refresh and protect the space, as well as the installation of a brand-new Gaga Pit — an exciting and active addition that we know our students will love!

A huge thank you to our families, friends, and community for their incredible support of the Seaside Fair. Your contributions are helping to create more engaging, safe, and inclusive spaces for our students to play and connect.

Casual Dress Day - Lucky Jar Donation

On Friday 14th November we will be holding a casual dress day to support our Seaside fair Lucky Jar stall. One of the most popular stalls at the Fair!

Some ideas to fill your empty jars: marbles, novelty erasers, mini stationery, hair clips, lip balm, matchbox cars, beads, Lego, stickers, wrapped lollies, balloons, keyrings, face paint, playing cards, yoyos, dinosaurs, glow sticks, bubbles…

So we encourage all students to bring a filled jar so they can dress in casual clothes.

Volunteers

Events like the Seaside Fair can not go ahead without the tremendous work of volunteers.

If you haven’t done so already please register via the link below. There are so many different opportunities for our volunteers.

Volunteer today! Join in the fun and make a real difference!

Register your interest and email us at seasidefair@williamstownps.vic.edu.au or visit www.seasidefair.williamstownps.vic.edu.au/volunteer/ for more information.

Building Works Update

Junior Toilets

During the term 3 holidays work commenced on the redevelopment of our junior toilet block. Demolition work saw the removal of all internal walls, ceiling and fixtures. This week we have seen a new framework installed as the enhanced layout is established. The new design will deliver increased privacy for students, while the addition of a full size inclusive toilet block that meets regulations is a huge addition. While a toilet upgrade doesn’t seem exciting this project has been a long time coming.

Heritage Maintenance Project

Although this project has been long delayed, it has been fully greenlighted with a site meeting having been held on Wednesday with the allocated contractor. The project works involve major roof, window and building feature restorations, predominately on our redbrick and bluestone buildings. We look forward to providing more details in the coming weeks.

Reminders

Families Relocating or Leaving in 2026

As we begin Term 4, planning for the 2026 school year is already underway. While we’re only in the first week, we’re keen to hear from any families who know they will be relocating or leaving Williamstown Primary next year.

If your family is moving on in 2026 and you haven’t yet informed the office, please contact us as soon as possible. Having this information early helps us plan class structures and ensure a smooth transition for all students.

We appreciate your support in helping us prepare for another successful year ahead.

Sunsmart – Term 4

A reminder to all families that during Term 4, all students are required to wear a SunSmart hat while outdoors. This is part of our school’s SunSmart Policy.

Even on cooler or overcast days, UV levels can still be high, and children can be easily burnt. We encourage families to apply sunscreen before school each day, and remind students to reapply as needed.

Additional sunscreen is available in every classroom for student use. Thank you for helping us keep everyone safe under the sun!

Warm regards,

Mat Montebello