Office Updates
By Helen Hassiotis
Grant Results
Exciting News for Our School Community!
We are delighted to share that Parkhill Primary School has been awarded a $1,000 School Yard Make Over Grant, proudly sponsored by the Victorian Catholic Education Authority (VCEA).
The 2026 Garden Grants program attracted an incredible 815 applications from 375 schools and kindergartens across Victoria, highlighting the strong demand for garden-based learning opportunities. With funding limited, only 87 schools and kindergartens were successful in receiving grants this year, making this achievement even more special.
A huge thank you goes to Max (Mia's mum), whose initiative, dedication and community spirit led to this successful outcome. Max generously took the time to write and submit the application on behalf of our school, and we are incredibly grateful for her efforts.
This grant will help us continue to enhance our outdoor learning spaces, supporting student wellbeing, sustainability, hands-on learning and a stronger connection with nature.
This is community spirit at its best – families and school working together to create wonderful opportunities for our students. Thank you, Max, for making a real difference to our school community!
Prep bags 2027 design competition now open for current Prep students
The Department of Education is inviting current Prep students at Victorian government schools to enter its Prep bags 2027 design competition.
This is an exciting opportunity for your child to showcase their creativity for a chance to see their design featured on the front of next year’s Prep bags. These will be given to thousands of students starting Prep at a Victorian government school next year.
How to take part
Designs must reflect the theme – My year of Prep.
Submissions can be either hand drawn or digitally designed. It must be your child’s original work.
Drawings must be in black marker on white paper. Digital designs must be in black on a white background.
You can upload your child’s submission as either a JPEG or PNG file.
Entries close at 11:59 pm on Sunday 9 August 2026.
To access the competition guidelines and design template, refer to Prep bags 2027 design competition.
The department will judge all entries, with the winner announced later this year.
Find out more
For more information, refer to Prep bags 2027 design competition.
Yard Supervision Reminder
For the safety and wellbeing of all students, please be reminded that yard supervision is provided only during the following times:
- Morning supervision: 8:45am – 9:00am
- Afternoon supervision: 3:30pm – 3:45pm
Staff supervision is not available outside these times. We kindly ask families not to drop children off before 8:45am or leave children unsupervised after 3:45pm.
If you require care outside these hours, families are welcome to access TheirCare, our Outside School Hours Care provider. To book care, visit TheirCare and click “Book Now”.
Thank you for helping us ensure a safe environment for all students.