Principal's message 

This week saw a return to remote learning and for our new Foundation families, this was their first experience. Feedback from parents and students across the school was overwhelmingly positive and it was great to see teachers pivoting in such a relaxed way, knowing that we now have the skills and the strategy to transition seamlessly from one context to another. I congratulate staff for the way in which they respond to these challenges and thank those who gave us positive feedback as a result. I’ve never seen such happy parents dropping their kids off on Thursday morning and we were overjoyed to have them back. 

Next week, teachers will be taking time to book parents in for an interview. This is a fantastic opportunity to discuss children’s progress and to set goals for their future learning. Some interviews have already taken place and teachers have mentioned how informative the discussions are because they sharpen their understanding of what the key focus areas parents want invested in their child’s learning. I strongly encourage you to make a time with your child’s teacher(s) if you haven’t already. 

It is with regret that we’ve had to postpone our Welcome BBQ once again. Our community really values this annual event however given that we are bound by the current restrictions on outdoor gatherings it simply can’t go ahead. We are all hopeful that the restrictions ease so that we can go ahead. Further updates will follow through Compass should we be able to save a date. 

Our capital works project is making progress with the first phase awaiting approval from the Victorian Schools Building Authority (VSBA). The first phase was all about setting the school’s educational vision and narrative which will be presented to shortlisted architects as part of the selection process. We have now been allocated a project manager from the VSBA who will join me and Matt Willis (our School Council President) for form a selection panel, with upcoming site visits and interviews already in place. Once selected, the architect will put together a master plan that reflects the school’s vision within the scope of the works. I will continue to update the community as the project progresses.

I am very excited to say that individual and small group French instrumental music begins next week. With over 20 students already signed up, this is a new initiative for Fitzroy Primary School that shows how highly the school community values music and the program will be a significant value add to our existing Performing Arts project. 

DET has confirmed that our school will go through the department’s review process in term two. A panel comprising Matt Willis, two challenge partners, the DET School Education Improvement Leader (SEIL), the reviewer and I will spend three days analysing the school’s self-evaluation and data to develop four year strategic goals for the future. This process is a fantastic opportunity to audit and celebrate the school, whilst shaping the future direction over the lifespan of a new School Strategic Plan. Further updates will follow in future newsletters and on Compass. 

With regards to assemblies on Friday afternoon we are also unable to invite all parents. Instead, we are limited to only inviting parents of children who are receiving an award. You will be contacted by your child’s classroom teacher if this is the case and I thank you for your understanding. 

-Angela Richmond,

Principal