Principal's Report

It has been my absolute privilege to lead our fabulous school in 2022!  As we draw this year to a close. I would like to express my immense gratitude to the  parents and carers of DPS for all your hard work, dedication and the pride you show for our school.  Together we are better! 

The end of year provides us with the opportunity to reflect and celebrate the many successes which the children and the school have achieved this year.  Congratulations to all our students for working towards your goals and making progress in your learning.   

I am fortunate to be working with some of the best educators that I have had the privilege to work alongside.  The drive, passion and determination; underpinned by skill, knowledge and empathy has seen Teaching and Learning raise progress and achievement despite the ever changing social, learning and emotional needs we are confronted with. 

Last night, we celebrated the Grade 6 Graduation!  It was an evening filled with acknowledgement of learning and the connection between teachers and students. The class of 2022 shared this milestone moment with joy and camaraderie. I am sharing my speech with you here as it exemplifies my sentiments for this amazing group of students some of whom I taught in Prep. (See Photo above)

Dear graduates,  

It has been a privilege to be a part of your educational journey, which began in 2016. 

You have grown and acquired knowledge, skills, and friendships during your time at DPS. And I know I can speak for all the teachers and Mr Hill when I say ..that we are proud of you …..not only for your accomplishments but for your unique talents and strengths.  

Remember this…. It is not how smart you are but How are you smart! Own your strengths and build on them! Always moving forward to grow your potential; this is the secret to creating an expectational life for yourself.  

Your educational journey represents a story that is special to you, and as you leave DPS and embark on this next chapter … your story will continue. And make no mistake, you are the protagonist of your story. You have experienced both success and obstacles on your journey thus far.... and this will continue, but as you know, at the end of every story, there are lessons learned and inspiration drawn from the hero's journey.  

You will note that I have used the word 'obstacle'…. meaning something that stands in the way or holds up progress. I like this word because with an obstacle.... you need to figure out how to overcome it, which may take many attempts.  

In response to a question about his missteps, Thomas Edison once said, "I have not failed 10,000 times- I have successfully found 10,000 ways that will not work. He also said, "When you think you have exhausted all possibilities, remember this: you haven't.  

The key to facing any obstacle is first to have the confidence to 'Show Up for yourself", and then it is about the three M's- Mindset, Motivation and Method as described by Jim Kwik, the author of the book Limitless. 

Mindset- have a growth mindset- be kind to yourself. 

Motivation – understand how to take care of yourself so that you have the energy to stay curious and motivated.  

Method – Now, this one is important- because not all methods work for everyone equally- You need to explore which method works best for you and aligns to your strengths. 

You all have the capacity to harness your strengths when removing those obstacles and taking on challenges. It is essential to know that Competence builds Confidence – And building competence at anything requires work. Embrace hard work; it builds character and true confidence. Your family and parents are often the best examples of what this means. Look to them for guidance.  

I want to take this time to thank all our parents and carers for partnering with us to support your child in their learning over the years. A special mention and thank you to Carl Michael, our school council president, for your unwavering support of our teachers and service on the school council over the years. Carl, you are the voice of reason, and your wise words, support, and professionalism have been greatly appreciated.   

In closing, I am so grateful to share this milestone with you, the class of 2022, in my role as Principal this year. It is particularly significant as I taught some of you in Prep. I am incredibly proud of my students from Prep V.  

Thank you to our School Captains, Joshua Wong, Isobel Michael, Lexie Blanchard and Weihan Chen, for how you have exemplified the School Values of Determination, Pride and Success this year. You have been fabulous role models and served your school community well.  

To the Class of 2022, remember you will always be Doncaster Primary School students. This is your school - our doors are always open to you. I wish you every success as you begin this new chapter and continue to write your story. 

Thank you 

I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season! We look forward to a brilliant year of teaching and learning for 2023!