Principal Message

A FABULOUS FORTNIGHT

The past few weeks have been abuzz with exciting events and programs that have enriched our students' educational experiences. 

Our community enjoyed an unforgettable Indonesian Day Celebration, immersing our students in the vibrant culture of Indonesia. It was an engaging and educational experience for all involved.

The Lamont Book Fair is currently underway and is a literary delight, where our students are exploring a wide array of books, fostering a love for reading. We are very grateful for the support you have given to the Book Fair, as the school also benefits with book vouchers totally 30% of the profits taken at the Book Fair. I would like to extend a very big thank you to our Librarian, Michelle, for her incredible organisation and promotion of the Book Fair and to all the parent and staff helpers who have staffed the Book Fair each afternoon.

Our commitment to student well-being remains strong, with ongoing Wellbeing programs designed to support the emotional and social development of our students.

For our junior students, the 'Treehouse' initiative has been a big hit, providing a nurturing space for their growth and learning. We've also introduced 'Girlosophy' and 'Cool Guys' programs for selected Grade 5 and 6 students, all programs are designed to promote age appropriate positive attitudes and self-esteem.

You may have also heard your children discussing ‘Mitch-Coin’. This week we launched our School Wide Positive Behaviour recognition system, as a staff we are now rewarding the positive display of actions in line with our four school values with Mitch-Coin, these tokens are then deposited into a collection point and when targets are hit the whole school is rewarded. Rewards have been suggested by our students, they vary, but include things such as additional play time, whole class games and special lunch days. 

Our Prep and Montessori transitions have been exceptionally successful, ensuring a seamless journey for our young learners. Today, we began high school transition experiences with Mullauna College, preparing our senior students for their next academic adventure.

Looking forward, we're excited about our upcoming swimming program starting next week for our Grade 3-6s and the following fortnight for our Preps – 2s.

WOMEN IN SCHOOL LEADERSHIP (WISL) PROGRAM – INDIA IMMMERSION

My experience in Delhi was so inspiring, the opportunity to collaborate with Dr. Jyoti Gupta, Principal of K.R. Mangalam World School, led to the initiation of a shared action research project, "Empowering Futures," focusing on creating supportive and inclusive environments for student empowerment. Exploring Delhi's education landscape and cultural exchange was enlightening during the Women in School Leadership Program.

K.R. Mangalam World School exemplified the power of integrating cultural heritage into modern education, particularly empowering female students. Traditional teaching emphasised Indian festivals, diversity, art, music, and literature, nurturing cultural preservation and identity, crucial for well-being. Engaging in traditional practices encouraged personal growth and self-discovery, enabling students to explore their potential.

Moreover, the school championed the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, emphasising equity and environmental sustainability. This holistic approach equips students to be environmental stewards and advocates for a sustainable future.

K.R. Mangalam World School's approach integrated cultural values with academic techniques, shaping confident, independent, and responsible individuals. I'm excited about the potential impact of our collaborative efforts on Mitcham Primary School's holistic education approach.

STAFF CHANGES FOR 2024

It was with mixed emotions that during the week I announced the retirement of our dedicated Assistant Principal, Heather Wood, after an outstanding 15-year tenure. Heather will complete this school year, ensuring a smooth transition for our students. Following this, she will embark on a well-deserved long service leave. Heather's unwavering commitment to public education has left an indelible mark on our school, and she will be deeply missed. Her tireless efforts, wisdom, and caring nature have inspired countless students and colleagues. I extend my heartfelt gratitude for her service and wish her a joyous retirement filled with new adventures. We will keep you posted with the plans we have to ensure Heather receives a wonderful send-off. Due to the significant growth our school has had over the last few years, we have appointed two Assistant Principals to commence in 2024. Michelle Anderson has been appointed as Assistant Principal – Whole School Curriculum and Operations and Kavita Parmar has been appointed Assistant Principal – Student Engagement, Welfare and Inclusion. Michelle joined us this year after working as a Learning Specialist and Acting Assistant Principal at Kalinda Primary School. Michelle is our current Literacy Learning Specialist, Curriculum Coordinator, and Grade 5/6 teacher, and I am certain you will join me in celebrating her appointment. Kavita was previously the Student Wellbeing Coordinator at Birralee Primary School and more recently has been employed in the Department of Education as the Student Wellbeing and Engagement Lead Officer and Student Achievement Manager, we are really looking forward to welcoming Kavita to Mitcham Primary School. I wish to also inform the school community that Samantha Barkley (Grade 3/4), will also be leaving Mitcham Primary School at the end of this school year. Samantha will be moving into a secondary school teaching position at Blackburn High School. Meg Steeds, one of our current Indonesian teachers will also be moving on next year. Meg has accepted a classroom teacher position at Warrandyte Primary School.  We wish Samantha and Meg all the best in their new roles in 2024.

PLANNING FOR 2024

Often at this time of year, families make decisions to move house and as such we will be welcoming several new families to Mitcham Primary School next year, similarly, we will also be farewelling some of our lovely families, if you know that your children will not be returning in 2024 we request that you let the office know as soon as possible so that we can finalise our planning for 2024. 

Our teachers will spend considerable time constructing classes for 2024. Students are placed by staff in class groupings best suited to their learning needs. Many factors are considered to create classes that are balanced – academic, social and behavioural factors, along with teachers’ knowledge of students. This process is about creating positive learning communities across the school for everyone’s benefit. If you have information of social or educational significance that you wish to be taken into consideration by teachers as class lists are prepared, please provide that information in writing to Erin Norman via the school email mitcham.ps@education.vic.gov.au by Friday 3rd November. While taken into consideration, we can of course not guarantee that your request will be met. Please note that requests for specific teachers will not and cannot be considered. Classes are structured around the needs of ALL students.

PUPIL FREE DAYS 

Monday, November 6th, we will have a pupil-free day dedicated to curriculum mapping and report writing, ensuring that we provide the best education possible for our students.

Wednesday, 20th December, on this Pupil Free Day Teachers will be engaged in student handovers.

Wishing all families a lovely weekend!

Warmly, 

Erin