Principal's Message

Our Grandparents and Grandfriends Day at SMPD was a special day for our school community. Thank you to all our visitors who came and joined in our prayer celebration, classroom activities and morning tea. It was our biggest crowd yet since COVID with some grandparents attending for their first time, while others their last time as their grandchildren finish their primary school journey.  

The day reminded us of the extraordinary role that grandparents play in shaping the hearts and minds of our young children. Their significance goes beyond the generational gap; it's in the stories they share, the wisdom they impart, and the love that transcends time. Through their timeless influence, grandparents create lifetime memories that become the foundation upon which our students build their futures.

As our students eagerly introduced their grandparents to their school environment, the air was filled with the magic of family connections.  From lively classroom activities to heartfelt conversations, it was evident that the bonds between generations were being nurtured and celebrated. The joy in the eyes of our students as they proudly showcased their school to their grandparents was a testament to the lasting impact of this special day.

Research emphasises the profound role grandparents play in the lives of their grandchildren. Their guidance promotes emotional resilience, enhanced self-esteem, and a stronger sense of identity. The wisdom gained from grandparents' life experiences provides a role model for our students as they navigate the complexities of the world.

Let's carry the spirit of Grandparents' Day forward, recognising that the influence of grandparents isn't confined to a single event. Encourage your children to maintain regular connections with their grandparents, fostering those precious moments of bonding that lead to lasting memories. Whether through virtual chats, letters, or visits, these interactions contribute to the growth and development of our students in immeasurable ways.

OTHER NEWS

Our wonderful Stella in 3/4SL begins a well deserved Long Service Leave (LSL) on Thursday 17th August and will return to school in Term 4 on Monday 2nd October.

While Stella is on LSL, Paula Fernon and Julie Wynne will be taking the Year 3/4SL class. They are both regular CRTs (Casual Replacement Teachers) at SMDP and know our students well.

We wish Stella a well deserved break.

Fathers and Significant Male Figures Day 

Don't forget to put our annual Father’s Day Breakfast on Friday 1st September into your diary. An invite will be sent out to all families soon. Keep an eye out.  

Traffic Management 

A reminder to all families to follow our traffic management system. Our drive through “Pick Up” and “Drop Off” system works very well when everybody follows the rules. However when parents don't, it becomes disruptive, unsafe and puts our students at risk.  

If the car park is full or the lineup of cars trying to enter the school is too long, I strongly suggest that parents park in Pearce or Campbell streets. You then can meet your child/ren at the gate and this will be much easier than waiting in a long queue. 

Other important traffic rules:

• No right hand turns in or out of the school.
• School Car Park - Only park in the spaces provided. Do not park in unlined areas. If the car park is full you must park in Pearce or Campbell streets. 
• The staff car park (to the left on entry) is a no parking zone for parents and carers between 8am and 4pm to ensure student safety and effective traffic management. 
• Do not use the car exit and entrances for foot traffic. The pedestrian gates at each end of the carpark is the much safer option to walk your children out. 
• Do not park in the ‘no standing’ areas opposite our school, as this significantly disrupts the flow of traffic. 

Our staff are employed to educate your students and not to be traffic controllers. It is your responsibility as adults to follow our traffic management system and to keep all our students safe.  

Have a great end of the week.

God bless!

Dan Ryan

Principal

St Martin de Porres Primary School is committed to creating an environment where the safety, well-being, and participation of all children within our care is paramount. 

2023 - School Closure Days

Listed below are our school closure days for 2023. These are student-free days. Staff use these days to develop their learning further and keep informed with current practices and procedures. 

NOTE: These dates may be subject to change that may be outside of our control.