Principals Report

By Frank Catalano

Dear Members of the Glen Waverley Primary School Community,

I trust all is well with you and your family and welcome to this fortnight’s newsletter where so much is shared about our fabulous school.

As per usual, if you have any questions or issues you wish to discuss, please do not hesitate to see me at school or contact me on 9802 9938 or via email at frank.catalano@education.vic.gov.au

Lockdown 5.0

As I reflect on the latest lockdown the term that comes to mind is IMPACT, as I am constantly wondering, what is the “real” impact of the latest lockdown?

What is blatant is the intended impact of addressing the spread of the Delta Variant, which as you would be aware, has been exceptionally well managed by the Victorian Department of Health.

However, I also think of the impact the lockdown has had on members of our school community.

The parents I have spoken to have discussed the difficulty associated with managing work and school commitments and also the very important social, extra-curricular learning and family activities. For me this raises a concern about the possible mental health and general wellbeing impact on adults and parents.
The challenge for the staff is around the uncertainty of managing learning, school events and the social and emotional wellbeing of the children. The impact of this is that it is emotionally draining hence impacting on our mental health and general wellbeing.
Although the children have returned to school with their usual ‘zest in their step’, as adults it is important to note that they too have been impacted by the lockdowns and the ever-changing way they are to live, learn, attend events and complete tasks. Please do not underestimate the impact of this and if you are concerned about your child’s wellbeing do not hesitate to contact me as we are able to organise support for you and your family.

Earlier this week Mr Lewis distributed information pertaining to a webinar being held this evening (Thursday 5th August) titled, “Lightening the Lockdown Load”. Dr Justin Coulsen is presenting it and he will share the following strategies:

Feel reassured, with less stress and pressure around your kids, their schooling, and life
Have concrete strategies you can start on immediately to make your family happier
Know how to be on the same page as your partner
Be able to develop habits and practices that will ensure your children – and YOU – can get your daily work done, even while everyone is stuck at home.

Lockdown 5.0 - More LFH photos

School Production Update

Wow, I think the level of excitement throughout our school this week could be felt on the moon as the children very, very excitedly rehearsed and then performed for this year’s school production. Once again, it is a real pity that we were unable to hold the event at Robert Blackwood Hall due to crowd capacity limits and other covid safe protocols, nevertheless, today’s filming was a resounding success as the children looked amazing and performed exceptionally well.

I look forward to the release of the final product and the much-anticipated Glen Waverley Primary School 2021 virtual Production evening being held in our homes – more information will be released as soon as possible.

May I take the opportunity to thank all of the parents, staff and children that have been involved in preparing and implementing this year’s production as it has been a monumental event. Also, a sincere thank you and congratulations to Mr Clark, Ms Peele and Ms Wood for their leadership and commitment.

Included are a few photos that were taken over the last day or so.