Principal's Report

As 2025 comes to an end, I want to thank our students, staff, and families for another successful and rewarding year at Elsternwick Primary School. This final newsletter shares some of the highlights that have shaped our school community over the past twelve months.

Student Leadership

It is with great pleasure that I announce and congratulate our 2026 student captains: Charlie W, Poppy D, Aston S and Alejandra L W. This is an outstanding achievement and I am confident they will represent our school with pride and dedication.

This year’s selection process allowed applicants to demonstrate their leadership skills in a range of authentic ways. Students participated in a group task, responded to both group and individual questions, and completed a final challenge where they guided the selection panel, which included myself and our 2025 captains, through the school gymnasium as if we were prospective parents or carers. This task highlighted their ability to think clearly, communicate confidently, and manage unexpected questions with maturity.

I would also like to acknowledge all Year Five students who submitted applications. The standard was exceptionally high and it was inspiring to see so many students step forward and express their interest in leading our school.

Step Up Day

This week, students from Prep to Year Five took part in our much anticipated Step Up Day on Tuesday 17 December. The day provided students with the opportunity to transition into their 2026 classes, meet their new classmates, and connect with their 2026 teachers.

It was wonderful to see students embrace the day with enthusiasm and curiosity. They engaged positively with their peers, listened attentively to their teachers, and approached the experience with a genuine growth mindset. Step Up Day plays an important role in helping students build confidence and reduce any uncertainties as they prepare for the year ahead.

Feedback from both students and staff has been overwhelmingly positive, with many sharing how excited and prepared they feel for the coming year. We encourage you to continue conversations at home about their new class and teacher, what they enjoyed most, and what they are looking forward to in 2026. Thank you for your ongoing support in ensuring this transition is smooth and successful.

Departing Families

As we reach the end of the year, we acknowledge and farewell the families who are leaving Elsternwick Primary School. Thank you for your contributions to our community and for the role you have played in making EPS the warm and welcoming school it is.

It has been a privilege to share in your family’s journey. While we will miss you, we wish you every success as you move into your next chapter. May the future bring new opportunities, friendships, and achievements. Thank you for being a valued part of EPS.

Graduating class of 2025

Congratulations to the graduating class of 2025. I am incredibly proud of all you have accomplished and the contribution each of you has made to our school. Throughout the year, you have shown maturity, resilience, and a genuine commitment to your learning.

I hope you look back on your time at EPS with pride and recognise it as a strong foundation for both your education and personal growth. As you begin your secondary school journey, I am confident you will approach this next stage with energy, curiosity, and determination.

Remember that you will always be part of the EPS community. We look forward to seeing you again when you return to visit. Wishing you every success and happiness in the years ahead.

Thank You

To our dedicated and resilient staff, thank you for the vital role you have played in supporting our students throughout the year. Your commitment has helped our students feel valued, capable, and proud of what they have achieved. The impact of your work is profound and deeply appreciated.

I am consistently amazed by the talents, creativity, and joyful spirit of our students. Their achievements are a reflection of your guidance, expertise, and belief in their potential. Thank you for everything you do.

Before we finish up for the year, I want to share two reminders that I often give our students.

The first is about being sun smart. I always tell students that staying safe is not just a school thing. So if you ever find yourself reminding your child to put on their hat or sunscreen, feel free to drop my name into the conversation. I am told it works wonders at home.

The second is something my mother taught me from a very young age. A green light does not mean you stop paying attention when crossing the road. Sadly, I have witnessed too many moments on our streets where someone assumed it was safe to enter an intersection, only for another person to make an error. These situations stay with you, and I make a point of explaining this to our students when I can.

So next time you are crossing at a green light, take the chance to remind your children that, as Mr Portaro says, you still need to look. They usually roll their eyes but they do listen.

Have a safe and enjoyable break,

Michael Portaro

Principal