This week we happily welcome our Prep 2026 children for their final visit to school before they begin next year. On the evening of their last visit, their parents gathered in the staffroom to meet the Prep 2026 teachers, Lauren and Sam, and the Leadership Team members, who shared ways families can help their children successfully transition to school life. We thank families for joining us for this session and we eagerly look forward to greeting them at the gates in 2026.

Evacuation and Lockdown Procedures

To ensure we remain compliant with our Child Safe and Emergency Management obligations, our school conducts regular evacuation and lockdown drills with students, staff and onsite visitors. These exercises help familiarise everyone with the required procedures, build confidence in responding safely during an emergency, ensure our staff are fully trained and prepared, and that our students follow the required processes. Recently we undertook a lockdown exercise and last week staff completed their annual compliance training. We will participate in a drill again this week. If you are onsite during a drill we ask that you listen for the announcements and then follow the given instructions. We appreciate your cooperation as we continue to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of our community.

New/Updated Policies on the website

Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy

Responding to all Forms of Child Abuse

Responding to Offences under the Crimes Act

Responding to Requests from Victoria Police and Child Protection

Responding to Student Sexual Offending

Child Safety Code of Conduct

Informing Staff of Reporting Obligations

Police or Child Protection Interviews at School

Volunteer Protocols for Excursions

As you are aware, parents and carers who wish to volunteer for excursions must follow school expectations, including signing in at the office before the excursion, following staff instructions, upholding Child Safe requirements, and modelling respectful behaviour at all times. These protocols ensure that our excursions run smoothly and safely, allowing students to enjoy rich learning experiences available in our community. You are required to read and sign the Child Safety Code of Conduct which will be provided to you by the class teacher or you may find it on our website. You will note that this policy has been updated recently.

Prior to attending excursions you will also be required to comply with the following protocols:

Child Safe Standards

It is critical that you maintain a child-safe environment, respecting each child's dignity and privacy. You are responsible for safeguarding the well-being of the children in your group, at all times.

Toilets

Please confirm with the teachers about the arrangements for children attending toilets. Toilets should be checked by an adult before student use. Students must tell their group supervisor when they are going to the toilet and go with another student. They should also report to the supervisor on return.

Photography

Volunteers must not photograph or video children other than their own, on their personal phones to ensure the privacy of all students.

Food and Souvenirs

Volunteers should not purchase food or souvenirs for themselves or for any children. This ensures equity for all those on the excursion, consideration to allergies and family food preferences, and adherence to the group’s schedule.

Sunsmart

Children must wear their hats on days when the UV will be 3 or above. They need reminders to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and to reapply sunscreen regularly.

Staying on the Left

Children must keep left and walk in two lines as they move through the streets and the excursion location, especially in crowded areas. This helps keep the group together and ensures everyone's safety.

Travel

When riding on a chartered coach all children must wear seat belts. On public transport, where seats are provided, children are expected to remain seated, and to speak in quiet tones.

Respect in Public Places
Volunteers must set an example of respectful behaviour in public places. This includes using polite language, showing patience, and being considerate of others.
General Supervision
Keep a close eye on your group of children and regularly count them. Report any concerns or issues to a teacher immediately.

Your support contributes greatly to the success of our excursions, and help to ensure a wonderful day filled with learning, fun, and new experiences.

School Improvement Plan

Last week our Leadership Team met with MACS staff to review our recent student, staff and family surveys, data from our review, and student assessments to begin our planning for our next four year School Improvement Plan. Our foci are in Mathematics, Literacy, Religious Education, Student Wellbeing and Staff Development. We will continue to refine the plan before sharing with staff and then families. From this, will come our Annual Action Plan for 2026.

Student Free Day

Reminder: Friday 28 November is a Student Free Day.

Advent

Did you know it’s only 4 weeks until Christmas? Advent is a special time in our Catholic tradition when we pause, wait, and prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus at Christmas. As a family, this season invites us to slow down, make space for prayer, kindness, and hope, and look for moments where God is present in our daily lives. By lighting the Advent candles, sharing simple acts of generosity, and reflecting together, we ready ourselves to welcome Christ with joy and peace.

Wishing you a happy week ahead,

Christine

Prayer