Your School 2024

Your School 2024

Be ready to support your child’s future Welcome to Your School

As a parent, choosing the right school that will support, uplift and nurture your child is of the utmost importance.

You want to do right by your child and give them a supportive learning environment to help set them up for their future.

We have many great schools located in Greater Shepparton, all unique in their offerings and ready to give your child the best schooling experience.

The schools featured in this year’s edition of Your School cannot wait to welcome your child into their communities and want

to help your child achieve their very best.

These schools will provide your child with solid foundations to set them up for their future, celebrate diversity and inclusion, and are committed to maintaining their students’ health and wellbeing.

Get to know their curriculums, philosophies, and extracurriculars and read how these schools will provide a happy, safe and welcoming

environment for your child to learn in.

As you start to prepare to make those big decisions about your child’s future, we hope this edition of Your School will act as a helpful guide to navigate you through the schooling process.

The News features team

Celebrating diversity and inclusion Wilmot Road Primary School

Wilmot Road Primary School is committed to providing an inclusive environment for all students.

We are an aesthetically pleasing school with great facilities, situated in the south of Shepparton.

We are proudly diverse in our community and have a fabulous team working to provide the best opportunities for our students. We are extremely well resourced, every classroom has aide support and class sizes are small.

At Wilmot Road, we provide a supportive environment for our students with a proactive wellbeing team, additional targeted supports and a nationally awarded sensory program that enables our students to access learning through increased ability to maintain self regulation.

Teaching and learning goals address the needs of students through explicit teaching and learning programs based upon data and di erentiated learning.

Our Community Hub enhances connection to our school through various programs engaging our parents, including the popular free play group.

Wilmot Road Primary School is happy for you to book a personal tour at any time, where you can see our learning in action, view our great facilities and answer any questions you may have.

Our website is also a great source of information to help you make the important decision of where your child will be schooled.

Principal Sharon Thompson | Foundation to Year 6 | 232 students 84-90 Wilmot Rd, Shepparton | 5821 4953 www.wilmotrd.edu.au | wilmot.road.ps.shepparton@education.vic.gov.au

Working together for a bright future Undera Primary School

At Undera Primary School our vision is for all students to be independent, self-motivated learners with a love and curiosity for learning and to face challenges with courage to achieve lifelong success.

We have a strong focus on explicit teaching and di erentiating learning to cater for the needs of all students. We o er a wide range of programs including STEM, Music, Italian, Art, PE and Sport.

Our Wellbeing Program enables students to develop their social/ emotional skills. This is supported by our caring sta and Mental Health and Wellbeing leader, who has developed strong links to outside services, ensuring all students receive the support they need to be ready to learn.

Our refurbished learning spaces are inviting and inclusive. Students are encouraged to be active learners

by utilising our new outdoor learning spaces and playground areas.

Families are always welcome and encouraged to be involved in learning programs.

We have strong links with local community clubs and work closely with the Undera Kindergarten to o er students a smooth transition from preschool to school.

The Schools Plus grant enables us to provide all students with free education for the next three years, including stationery, access to iPads and laptops, camps and excursions, and our swimming program.

For more information about the great learning opportunities we o er, visit our school website.

A tour can be organised by contacting the school.

Principal Robyn Bell | Foundation to Year 6 | 13 students 45-55 Anderson St, Undera | 5826 0211 underaps.vic.edu.au | undera.ps@education.vic.gov.au

Verney Road School

Excellence in supportive learning

Verney Road School caters for students aged from Foundation to Year 12 with an intellectual disability.

The school works with its community to develop the best pathways for each and every student.

Verney Road School is a centre of inclusive education where each student has their own individualised learning program, which is supported by:

• Rigorous literacy and numeracy programs where we have high expectations that all students can learn.

• Di erentiated communication systems and supports relevant to each student’s needs.

• Access to a broad curriculum which promotes each student’s ability to reach their potential.

• Strong Positive Behaviour Support Program which embeds the school-wide expectations of: Be Safe, Be Responsible, Be Respectful and Be a Learner.

• Allied Health and Wellbeing teams including a physiotherapist, occupational and speech therapists, psychologist, mental health practitioner, school nurse, social worker and a massage therapist.

• Extensive excursion and camps program.

• Varied curriculum programs including

Principal Angela Buxton | Foundation to year 12 | 265 students

2 Verney Rd, Shepparton | 5821 8185 verneyrd.vic.edu.au

| Verney.road.sch@education.vic.gov.au

Early Education for children aged 2.9 to five years and School Based Apprenticeship and Training (SBAT) program in Senior Years.

• Strong connection with community agencies which promotes a ‘team around the family’ approach.

Every day attendance counts

Greater Shepparton Secondary College students are among a mix of school, community, sport and business people taking part in an Every Day Counts campaign to promote the importance of regular school attendance.

The people and places featured in the campaign are local to Greater Shepparton and comprise a series of short, sharp video clips for social media.

From the mayor to the head coach of Goulburn Valley Suns, from a classroom teacher to primary school students, the videos reinforce the importance of attendance to keep up not only with studies, but friendships and engagement with school.

“I like going to school every day because it’s a chance to see my friends and also to meet new people,” Year 9 student Maddie Ryan said.

Year 9 classmate Maddie Beare said missing a day here and there could quickly add up.

“Sometimes you don’t realise how much school you’ve actually missed,” she said.

“It might not seem like a big deal at the time, but it can affect you down the track if an employer sees that your school attendance record isn’t great, they might believe you will not be reliable at work.”

For Temperance Thu, in Year 8, missing school means missing out.

“I like to think of the bigger picture with attending school every day,” Temperance said.

“Learning new things and being able to do so many different subjects means there’s

Sirius College

A number of students took part in some filming for our Every Day Counts campaign, promoting the importance of good school attendance.

more options for me in the future.

“When you miss a day, you never know what you will be behind on.”

Watch out for both Maddies and Temperence, plus many others, in the campaign.

The Victorian Education Department advises there are no safe number of days for missing school.

Every day missed can put a student

behind – with their studies, with their friends and with their connection to school.

Schools always want to positively work in partnership with their families.

The department encourages parents and carers with attendance concerns to contact their child’s school and ask for advice and support.

Focusing on growth in the classroom

Established in 2005, Sirius College’s Shepparton Campus is one of six Sirius College campuses in Victoria.

The Shepparton campus o ers classes from Foundation to Year 6.

Sirius continues to strive to empower students to become critical thinkers with a belief in tolerance, diversity and harmony, and enable them to become global citizens. Focused on the growth of students academically, Sirius College presents a diverse curriculum for all facets of life, learning about the world around them and striving for academic excellence

and developing strong connections to their culture and backgrounds.

The Shepparton Campus has seen student numbers approaching maximum capacity, meaning early enrolments are essential for 2025 and will prove to be beneficial. Sirius College also focuses on enriching learning experiences through technology, skills development and both incursions and excursions will continue to be a part of the school’s activities.

STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) programs, and teams in the Shepparton Junior Soccer Association’s

Principal Mr Avtandil Teshebaev | Foundation to year 6 | 149 students 685 New Dookie Rd, Shepparton | 5858 8200 sirius.vic.edu.au | spc@sirius.vic.edu.au

tournament in terms two and three will continue as they have in the past.

Sirius also values working closely with parents and friends across the school community, celebrating cultural and religious diversity. Providing students opportunities to learn about many cultures will continue to be the school’s priority and guiding ethos.

All students study a second language, and a very economical bus service allows students from across the region to attend the school.

“Our school continues to have small class sizes, which allows for more individualised learning and support,” Mr Teshebaev said.

He said teachers were grateful to have students back at school and would be ensuring each day is a great one for their students and families.

“Sirius College will strive to keep its students growing in a safe, happy and culturally diverse environment. We hope that 2024 will be a time of growth for our school community.”

Your best school is

Why your local government primary

Guaranteed placement – children are assured a place at their local school throughout their primary education

Friendly faces – the parents, teachers and students at your local school are the people you meet at local shops, parks and walking down the street

Find your local school by scanning the code

When school is part of the family

Hanging with Toolamba Primary ... Renee Ewart with children Henry, Edie, Lola and their grand-dad Anthony Lagozzino

your local school

Quality teaching and learning – under the Shepparton Education Plan, our schools are collaborating like never before to deliver best practice  school should be your first choice:

Convenience – primary school is a seven-year commitment. Older students can walk, cycle and socialise with friends when their school is close by 

Renee Ewart knows her local school is the best choice for her twin six-year-old girls Lola and Edie and – in time – her threeyear-old son Henry.

“It’s the sense of community at Toolamba Primary School that makes it special,” she says.

“Toolamba is a lovely, supportive community and it’s the same feeling at our school.”

There was never any doubt on choosing Toolamba. Not only is it just down the road but Renee, her brother Sam and sister Cara attended the school – as did their father Anthony Lagozzino and his sisters Anne and

Lina back in the 1960s.

Anthony, who runs the Toolamba farm inherited from his first-generation parents, considers the school part of his family.

Renee, a secondary school teacher, says she appreciates the high-quality education along with the familiar faces at Toolamba Primary School.

While some of the Lagozzino family have moved away, they’ll be returning to Toolamba this weekend - when the primary school marks an incredible 150-year anniversary with a series of community events.

Shepparton East Primary School

Program develops the whole child

With the resources of a large school yet the close-knit community of a small school, Shepparton East Primary School embraces the individual. Just a few minutes drive from Shepparton with wide open spaces, the school community is one big happy family.

Principal Les Walsh said Shepparton East was a welcoming place with an emphasis on parent involvement.

“We have a great country feel. You walk around our school and people are happy and friendly,” Mr Walsh said. “We have a really strong school community; we actively encourage parent involvement and education by running a Parent Education Program where parents are trained in strategies used in classrooms to best support their children, with their learning, at home.”

Shepparton East has a strong emphasis on wellbeing and is continuing the partnership with the Resilience Project, which teaches students about gratitude,

empathy and mindfulness.

The school has a comprehensive literacy and numeracy program complemented by STEM learning programs, and Mr Walsh said this allowed students to learn at their own pace and develop their strengths and interests.

“It’s about preparing them for the future to be wellrounded individuals,” he said.

“The school strives to meet the individual needs of students, catering for those who require assistance as well as fostering talents.”

In addition, Shepparton East o ers Art, Performing Arts, Library and Sport, including a Perceptual Motor Program for Prep students.

Mr Walsh said the STEM based programs tied into students’ interests.

“It promotes student engagement, develops oral language and has direct links into our formal literacy and numeracy lessons.”

The school is continually adding new resources and opening further learning

Principal Les Walsh | Foundation to Year 6 | 208 students

Benalla Rd, Shepparton East | 5829 2426 sheppeastps.vic.edu.au

| shepparton.east.ps@education.vic.gov.au

opportunities, including the use of a robotics program in the Year 5/6 area.

Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities such as camps and excursions, weekend sporting teams, swimming, choir and guitar lessons. We are also annual participants in the Victorian State School Spectacular held in Melbourne.

Mr Walsh said it was all about developing the whole child.

The school uses a buddy program to support students and has also received recognition for its behaviour management and positive acknowledgement systems.

“The culture of our school really sits under that framework of caring for yourself, caring for others, caring for your learning and caring for your school,” Mr Walsh said.

“To do that we explicitly teach what those values are and what those behaviours and actions look like, so students know how to care for their learning in a reading

session, or out on an excursion.”

A school chaplain is also employed, providing support for families, working in classrooms and running the breakfast program with parent and sta helpers. Before-school and after-school care is provided each day during school terms.

Mr Walsh said being an eSmart school meant there was a high standard of information communication technology and cyber safety processes.

“All classes have their own interactive whiteboard as well as iPads. The junior classes each have their own sets and our Years 3 to 6 students have their own iPads.”

Shepparton Christian College

Small school, BIG opportunities

Shepparton Christian College, was founded 27 years ago, and after 11 years operating as a Prep to Year 12 school, it has developed an excellent reputation which has resulted in significant growth and development. The college has 313 students enrolled currently, and the school community places a high-value on faith, family, and academic excellence.

Students benefit from a wide range of learning opportunities throughout the year, including excursions to explore the natural beauty of Victoria, art, culture and other activities beyond the classroom. The school o ers a

diverse range of subjects, with a focus on academic excellence in core subjects. Furthermore they have a wide subject o ering, with everything from woodwork to forensic science and theatre arts catered for. The school’s emphasis on great teaching and creative learning opportunities has resulted in the College seeing great success in recent years, particularly in the results achieved by Year 12 students.

One of the most significant accomplishments of the College is the holistic community culture it has built as a P- 12 school, where students are cared for and valued. Additionally, the

Principal Chris Aiton | Foundation to Year 12 | 313 students

155 Verney Rd, Shepparton | 5831 7790 scc.vic.edu.au

| admin@scc.vic.edu.au

small class sizes enable teachers to meet the individual needs of each student and foster positive relationships. Student-to-student mentoring programs are in place where older students support younger students, and seniors find themselves surrounded by a familiar community of peers and teachers. Grade 6 students who transition into secondary school often find themselves surrounded by a community of peers and teachers who are familiar to them and who care about their well-being. The College’s focus on individualised attention and support has enabled its

students to thrive academically, emotionally, and personally. The College is proud of its mission to teach, with an unwavering focus on a Christian-biblical worldview guiding all aspects of teaching, learning, and community life. Overall, this approach has proven successful, providing students with the greatest opportunities to achieve their goals and thrive.

Orrvale Primary School

Committed to students’ success

Orrvale Primary School is situated amongst local orchards, 5km south-east of Shepparton.

With all the benefits of a larger primary school in a rural setting, our school consists of 18 classrooms spread across multiple learning zones, including a purpose-built STEAM hub and a large indoor sports and events shed. The STEAM hub comprises a computer lab for coding and robotics and Art and STEM spaces that host our Outside Hours School Care program.

Beyond the classroom, the school has two playgrounds, an undercover soft-fall play zone, a synthetic running track, an all-abilities basketball tree and a newly opened outdoor obstacle course. A refurbished garden and sand play area provide a welcoming entrance to the school, giving

students the space to play and learn outdoors. Our school roundabout system o ers easy drop-o , pick-up zones, and shade sail spaces to add to our modern grounds and facilities. Literacy, Mathematics and Emotional Intelligence (EI) education is at the centre of Orrvale’s work, with specialist Mathematics and Literacy leaders providing coaching and mentoring to all sta . Orrvale Primary School is the only Victorian Government school trained in Yale University’s RULER approach, encouraging children to identify, regulate and manage their emotions. Foundation students are immersed in the early language of EI, with teachers modelling words and actions that assist with mood regulation. The school helps students

Principal Adam Brennan | Foundation to year 6 | 389 students 300 Channel Rd, Orrvale | 5829 2490 orrvaleps.vic.edu.au | orrvale.ps@education.vic.gov.au

to reach their potential through self-motivation and by stimulating children’s curiosity. Extra-curricular learning such as woodworking in the Peter Copulos Workshed, bike mechanics, DrumBeat, and cooking engages students who thrive with hands-on tasks. Students are also o ered the opportunity to pursue creative interests with visiting guitar tutors and vocal coaching, as well as lunchtime ‘karaoke’ and mindfulness yoga. The school also employs its own speech therapist, who works closely with teachers to o er individualised assessment and therapy as well as small group sessions. At Orrvale, we believe in empowering our students to become leaders. Our School Captains lead a strong team of

student leaders, including House Captains and EI Executive members. We also o er other leadership opportunities, such as cross-age buddy programs and ICT Leaders who help manage the school’s digital device program. After hours, families and students can participate in a range of sports activities and take part in annual school events such as our Mini Fair, Bike Hike, ra es, Mother’s and Father’s Day Breakfasts, excursions and camps.

Mooroopna Primary School

A safe and happy place to learn

Mooroopna Primary School is an inclusive school that is committed to providing a safe, happy and welcoming environment for students and families.

Mooroopna Primary School:

• Includes an onsite Children & Families Centre providing three and four year old kindergarten, long term day care and maternal child health.

• Operates playgroups and a Mother Goose program.

• Encourages family members’ involvement in their child’s learning.

• Provides before and after-school care and vacation care program, as well as a daily breakfast club.

Principal Karen Goodwin

• Has a speech therapy program working with small groups and individual students.

• Provides access to a school paediatrician.

• Works with the wider community to collaborate with students to build career aspirations and wellbeing support.

• Has a strong commitment to arts education, which includes a school band.

• Provides a technology-rich environment to enhance student learning and school engagement.

• Provides excellent facilities that provide a wide range of learning environments.

16–18 O’Brien Street, Mooroopna | 5825 2060

mooroopna.vic.edu.au

| mooroopna.ps@education.vic.gov.au

Children are supported to:

• Develop proficiency in literacy and numeracy skills in an integrated, engaging curriculum.

• Be active in determining their learning goals.

• Acquire decision-making, problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

• Communicate freely and co-operatively with others.

• Develop a commitment to complete their work to their maximum potential.

• Improve their skills and fitness levels through a wellbalanced physical education and sport program.

• Develop a strong knowledge of musical performance through the whole-school music program and school band.

• Develop their technology skills and cybersafe behaviours to be e ective and responsible users of technology.

Greater Shepparton Secondary College Thinking of enrolling at GSSC in 2025?

Take a tour of GSSC

Families of Year 6 students are invited to join us for a talk and tour of GSSC on Tuesday, 7 May. Tours will be hosted by our student leaders from 5.30pm with an information session taking place from 6.00pm.

Families can also come and see for themselves, the wonderful teaching and learning that takes place at GSSC by booking a tour on one of the following dates:

Monday 29 April, Thursday 2 May, Monday 6 May and

Thursday 9 May from 9.30am to 10.15am

Tuesday 30 April, Wednesday 1 May, Tuesday 7 May and Wednesday 8 May from 2.15pm to 3.00pm.

To book, please phone 5891 2000 or visit https://www.gssc.vic.edu.au/news-and-events/ latest-news/538-year-7-2025-enrolments

Greater care, greater belonging

Term 1 has all been about welcoming our newest cohort of Year 7s into our college and ensuring their transition to secondary school has been a positive one.

Our transition program begins in Year 6, where we bring students into the school at various times throughout the year, to build their confidence, support networks and excitement for the year ahead.

This year we also hosted a meet and greet for our Year 7 students and their families, to introduce them to their Home Group teacher and ‘go to’ people within their House and Neighbourhood. Here’s what a few of our Year 7 students had to say about their experience so far:

Here’s what our students have to say:

Lily Balfour

“My friends have helped me settle in. I am the eldest child in my family so I’ve been the first to go to high school. I like the set-up of classes and facilities and I’ve found wellbeing really supportive, as well as the House reception staff in my neighbourhood.”

Layla Pryde

“I love the range of subjects we get to do, as well as Home Group. It sets me up for the day and helps me to know what is happening around the school.”

Phoebe Wheeler

“I’ve got cousins and friends at the school that have helped me settle in, but my House Leader Ms Hendrickson has really supported me. On my first day, I didn’t know where I was going so I asked a Year 12 for help and they walked me to class. I like the gym and classrooms, the facilities are good.”

Big smiles at the Year 7 Big Day Out excursions held at Murray Life Adventures this term

To take a virtual tour of our college, scan the code with your smartphone or visit www.gssc.vic.gov.au

Mooroopna Park Primary School

Award-winning wellbeing program

Mooroopna Park Primary School’s unwavering commitment to improving student wellbeing grows stronger year by year. In 2023 the school received the Victorian Education Award for Outstanding Educational Support Team to go with the 2022 Victoria Early Years Award for Promoting Health and Wellbeing and the 2022 and 2020 Australian Education Award for Best Student Wellbeing Program. The Wellbeing Initiatives consists of a Healthy Food program, speech therapist, paediatric clinic, play therapist, school chaplain and school hub leader, as well as support from a number of other agencies. The school is the only one of its kind in the Goulburn Valley to deliver

students three meals a day, free-of-charge. “We have a full-time chef who prepares breakfast, morning tea, afternoon tea and lunch every day for all students,” principal Hayden Beaton said. “Students are happier, more engaged with their learning and their attendance has improved as a direct result of the wellbeing initiatives.” The school runs its own community veggie garden and maintains chooks as part of the program, as well as receiving generous donations from community groups. “We have great community relationships with groups like the Lighthouse Project, Foodshare, Foodbank, Campbells Soups, SPC, Eat Up, Plunketts Orchards, Pental and Everyday Supplies who kindly donate goods and

services to our school,” Mr Beaton said. The school’s speech therapist, paediatric clinic, play therapist, chaplain and School Hub leader offer a range of dedicated specialist services to further strengthen the program and improve student wellbeing. The school recently opened its new bike and scooter safety track and School Community Hub, which is running a weekly play group, Women’s Wellness sessions, craft and story time, community gardening and adult education sessions. The school continues to offer before and after school care, as well as its own bus service to further support families.

“Each classroom at the school has a teacher aide to ensure all students meet their learning goals,” Mr Beaton

Principal Hayden Beaton | Foundation to Year 6 | 145 students 45 MacIsaac Rd Mooroopna | 5825 3856 mpps.vic.edu.au | mooroopna.park.ps@education.vic.gov.au

said. “We also have specialist programs such as PE, Art, Science, Wellbeing and Music including an instrumental music program and band.” On enrolment each student is allocated a Chrome book computer to use throughout their time at the school. Parental involvement in the school is actively encouraged, and various events — including a welcome barbecue, grandparents’ day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day breakfasts — are highlights of the year. “We like to involve our students in extracurricular activities such as sport, excursions, camps, Fun Runs and fun dress-up days,” Mr Beaton said

Mooroopna North Primary School

Safe environment for study and play

Nestled in a beautiful bushland setting with wide-open lawns and plenty of play areas, Mooroopna North Primary School is where the fun of learning never ends!

Here, we cherish the essence of childhood, allowing kids to be themselves—whether they’re racing around on bikes, crafting mud pies in our outdoor kitchen, or building forts in the bush. It’s all about exploration, fostering friendships, and connecting with our natural surroundings.

But our school is more than just fun and games. We’re committed to creating a supportive community where everyone thrives.

We’ve incorporated strong wellbeing programs to promote respect, resilience, and responsibility among our students.

Our school has a strong partnership with Melbourne University, which ensures timely access to speech therapy, occupational therapy, and social work services through

onsite supervisors and final-year university placement students.

To further support our students we also have several Education Support sta , Chaplain, Tutor and Mental health and wellbeing leader in our school and access to school paediatric clinic.

With small class sizes and passionate teachers, we ensure every child receives the attention they need to thrive. Our lessons are carefully planned to cater to the individual learning needs of our students

while drawing on the diverse interests and talents of our students.

And because we understand the demands of life, we o er daily bus service and beforeand-after-school care to support busy families.

There is so much more to our school to tell, so why not call us at 5829 0141 or 0409 025 137 to find out more or visit us!

Kialla West Primary School

Building independence and pride

Kialla West Primary School Kialla West

Primary School is a dynamic learning community with a warm, friendly atmosphere. Principal Wes Teague said families, children and teachers were encouraged to be actively involved in the school community and work together to help students develop and grow, while the school values of pride, excellence and resilience underpin everything it does.

“Kialla West has caring staff and create a buzz of excitement about learning,” Mr Teague said. “We have really strong academic outcomes, and our social emotional learning is all around building that independence and pride.”

Kialla West has implemented a strong teaching and learning instructional model. Mr Teague said the teachers

create a beautiful learning environment to develop a love of learning for the children at Kialla West.

The school is enhancing the children’s social and emotional skills through The Resilience Project. The children participate in daily learning to develop their Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness.

In addition to classroom lessons, students participate in specialist programs in PE, Italian, Art, Science and the tutor learning initiative.

Kialla West provides a range of opportunities for children to develop responsibility, independence and leadership skills. Senior students attain a leadership role, and the Buddy Program is a special opportunity for students in Year 4 to support younger students.

Principal Wes Teague | Foundation to Year 6 | 214 students

7370 Goulburn Valley Hwy, Kialla West | 5823 1333

kiallawestps.vic.edu.au | kialla.west.ps@education.vic.gov.au

The school offers open learning spaces, creating calm and quiet classrooms across the school.

The school is well resourced and is fortunate to have a wonderful multipurpose building with a communal learning area, art room and canteen.

The school maintains spacious and attractive grounds featuring playground equipment, a large oval and smaller playing areas, a basketball/netball court with cover.

Kialla West also offers a range of sporting activities including crosscountry running, swimming, athletics and fun run plus school sporting teams including netball, Auskick, football, soccer and basketball.

There is also a before school care program that runs from 7.30am

to 8.30am, an after school care program from 3.15pm to 6pm and a holiday care program from 8am to 6pm. Bookings are available on a casual or permanent basis.

The school is holding an open day on May 23rd at 9.15am & 10.15am and families are asked to contact the office to book a tour. Additional tour times are also available by contacting the school.

Scoot to school a runaway success

A brainstorming session in the staffroom has resulted in a real boost to student attendance, engagement and enjoyment at a Shepparton primary school.

“We were talking about creative ways we might encourage the kids to attend every day and came up with ‘Scoot to School’,” Gowrie Street Primary School assistant principal Tim Davis said.

The program, launched at the start of the year, sees two of the school’s fit and young education support staff start their day on pushscooters, riding the suburban streets that snake through the Gowrie St school zone.

Pied Piper-like, San Soakimi and Damon Sanders pick up scooting students on the way to school – providing an energetic, safe and “on time” start to the school day. “We might knock on a few doors to hurry the kids along,” Damon said. “Families are often waiting on the street for us and the children find it good fun.”

Scooters and helmets have been donated by the community and the program is open to all 200-plus students at Gowrie St, from Foundation to Year 6.

Older, responsible riders are appointed to help Damon and San ensure a safe and orderly journey is had each day.

Mr Davis said the program was not only effective in delivering students to school, but was providing important insights into how the school community was travelling. “We know early on who might be unwell, or which families might need some extra support,” he said. Close engagement with families is

important for Gowrie St, which serves a very diverse school community.

“We have a great responsibility in helping families set up those positive school routines early, so our students can get the most benefit from their education now, in secondary school and beyond,” Gowrie Street Primary School principal Eron Chapman said.

The school’s commercial kitchen, which

Katandra West Primary School

School is the heart of the community

Katandra West Primary School is an integral part of a tight-knit community.

It is the school’s strong community connections that distinguish it from the rest, and principal Marcia Waters says students particularly appreciate how welcoming and kind everyone is at Katandra West Primary School.

It is a School Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) school, dedicated to providing a positive, safe and supportive learning culture.

The strong set of values and behavioural expectations include: Be Safe, Be Respectful, Be Strong and Be Your Best.

Katandra West Primary School provides an extensive education including STEM, Italian, and Health and Physical Education. Other programs — such as bike education, camps and visits from the MARC library van and MACC art van — add to the experiences o ered to the students.

An outside school hours care (OSHC) service is available at Katandra West Primary. The school provides care before school, after school and a holiday program.

Kindergarten students from Katandra West Children’s Centre are also able to attend the OSHC service after their kinder program. This encourages a smooth transition to school and will benefit working families.

The teaching and learning program has been enhanced by technology, with students in Years 4 to 6 participating in a bring-your-own iPad program and classroom iPads available for Foundation to Year 3 students. A computer lab is used by all classrooms for whole-class learning.

Katandra West Primary School encourages local kids to attend their local school. This is made easy with the bus service available for families in the surrounding area.

dishes out breakfast, morning tea and lunch every day, has been fundamental in lifting and maintaining school attendance.

Ms Chapman said Scoot to School was showing early success in complementing such attendance initiatives. “We’re getting 15 to 20 students scooting each day – and they arrive happy, hungry for brekkie and ready to learn,” he said.

Education support staff San and Damon with (back, from left) Judd, Keith, Jett, Nevaeh, Lillie Rose, Matt, Evelyn and Tytus (front) Madison and Ivan.

Guthrie Street Primary School

Students supported to achieve their best

Guthrie Street Primary School is dedicated to developing students’ literacy and numeracy skills, with a strong focus on their social and emotional needs.

The belief at Guthrie Street Primary School is that students need to be emotionally intelligent and engaged in their learning so they can succeed academically.

Young people at Guthrie Street are nurtured and challenged to achieve their personal best. Their unique talents and gifts are valued and supported; creativity and imagination are encouraged and celebrated.

At Guthrie Street, learning is personal and social. Learning connects students and teachers not just to knowledge but to each other.

Principal Brendan Bicknell said Guthrie Street was passionate about providing a holistic education for students.

He said the school challenged students to actively pursue opportunities that life at school o ered.

Students are encouraged to have high expectations of themselves while actively participating in their learning.

Literacy development is a priority, with successful learning evident in readers’ and writers’ workshops.

Mr Bicknell said the development of emotional and social competencies enabled Guthrie Street students to foster positive connections and to be valued and productive members of the community.

The students at Guthrie Street are provided with excellent facilities that suit the needs of 21st century learners.

There are modern contemporary learning spaces throughout the school, which encourage a positive educational environment.

Within the classrooms the advantages of modern technology including iPads and

Principal Brendan Bicknell | Foundation to year 6 | 470 students

laptops are utilised by the students as they engage in purposeful learning activities.

Personal learning includes:

• Core development of literacy and numeracy skills.

• Use of technology − laptops and iPads (BYO device program for Years 2 to 6).

• Specialist programs − the arts, physical education, science, creative arts.

• Student performances in music/drama.

• Deaf Facility - catering for the hard of hearing.

• Emotional Intelligence Program/GEM (Gratitude Empathy Mindfulness)/ Respectful Relationships.

Supportive programs include:

• Kinder to Foundation transition in term four.

• Student leadership.

• Student Voice Team.

• School Wellbeing Dog and School Student Wellbeing O cer.

Guthrie St, Shepparton | 5821 1944 guthriestps.vic.edu.au | guthrie.street.ps.shepparton@education.vic.gov.au

• One-on-one tutoring support in literacy and numeracy.

• Koori and EAL support programs.

• Speech and occupational therapy support.

• After-school and weekend sports programs.

• Music lessons − guitar, piano and keyboard (fee-paying).

• Camps, excursions and cultural performances.

• Auslan.

• Outside school hours care.

• Expansive areas of TigerTurf for ball games.

• Modern administration spaces

Grahamvale Primary School

Education tailored for each student

At Grahamvale Primary School, all students are encouraged to be confident, lifelong learners who can form strong and positive relationships with others.

The school is dedicated to tailoring the educational experience to each individual student.

Principal Luke Simpson said learning was about working together, and the school boasted a productive partnership between teachers, parents and students.

“We pride ourselves on the sense of community we have here and the family environment,” Mr Simpson said.

“Our parents love to be involved in their child’s schooling journey and we encourage them to assist in classrooms, on sports days and camps and excursions — it’s a partnership”.

This inclusivity begins early at

Grahamvale, with a personal approach to the enrolment process.

“We work in partnership with the parents from Foundation and o er a strong transition program so the students have many opportunities to visit the school before the statewide orientation day.”

In partnership with Best Start, the school also provides opportunities for future students to join a reading session.

“Before they even walk in the door we have a really good understanding of the children, so they feel comfortable,” Mr Simpson said.

Each year, future Foundation students meet their Year 6 buddies prior to starting school to ensure they feel welcome.

“Buddies introduce themselves to their parents, so they have that sense

of connection with them from the start, and they’re great and very supportive of them in the yard,” Mr Simpson said, Grahamvale has an emphasis on developing the whole child, socially, emotionally and academically.

“There are lots of opportunities for technology in the junior rooms and in Years 3 to 6 we have a bring-your-own¬ device iPad program,” Mr Simpson said.

All students have access to Dash robots, Beebots, Ozobots, iPads and laptops as part of their STEM learning program.

PE and Visual Arts provide fantastic opportunities for development of students’ creativity and health and wellbeing.

Performing Arts is a new subject area, with opportunities for students to explore musical instruments, dance and drama.

“To lay the foundations for success in literacy, we have a strong focus on the building blocks to reading, including systematic phonics instructions and evidence-based teaching and learning,” Mr Simpson said.

“We also have a strong focus around student voice and agency”.

“Students are encouraged to discuss what they are learning linked to the Learning Intention and Success Criteria of their lessons to build their confidence and understanding.” Principal

Bourchier Street Primary School

Inspiring students to be their best

Our motto is ‘best always’ and we want students and their families to experience the best teaching and learning environment possible.

By prioritising learning and wellbeing above all else we ensure we have caring students, committed teachers and a vibrant and friendly learning community. Our student-centred approach to learning empowers children to take control of their own learning, promoting critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.

It’s not merely about academic achievements; it’s also about how they support one another, contribute to the community and demonstrate compassion in their daily interactions.

Our teachers are committed to developing their own practice and becoming the best teachers possible.

Professional Learning in a wide array of areas including evidence-based Literacy and Numeracy practice is a staple of their weekly activities Innovative teaching strategies and cutting-edge technology support our classroom learning program.

Our students have access to a vast range of technological tools and resources, including iPads, laptops, and interactive technology, which enhance their learning experience and prepare them for the digital world.

Our excellent specialist program is comprised of physical education, visual arts, performing arts and science and technology.

Principal Gary D’Arma | Foundation - Year 6 | 600 students

Cnr Balaclava Rd and Bourchier St, Shepparton | 5821 3488 bourchierps.vic.edu.au | bourchier.ps@education.vic.gov.au

Bourchier Street is well connected with numerous sporting clubs including netball, football, soccer and basketball clubs.

We also have a strong focus on the arts, with dedicated programs in dance, drama, and visual arts. Our kitchen garden program provides students with hands-on learning opportunities that promote healthy eating habits and environmental awareness.

At Bourchier Street Primary School, we place a strong emphasis on student engagement and wellbeing and community connectedness.

We aim to build strong partnerships with families and encourage active parental participation in learning. There is a before and after

school care program to support busy families and we work very hard to ensure that every student has a good day, every day.

We love meeting new people at Bourchier Street. If you would like a personalised tour of our learning spaces and excellent facilities, one of our friendly team would love to show you around. Please contact our o ce on 03 5821 3488 to arrange a time that suits you.

Ardmona Primary School

Small school with big resources

Located just 1.5km from Mooroopna, Ardmona Primary School continues to create a peaceful learning environment and haven for students to attend school.

Ardmona Primary School is equipped with exceptional classroom facilities which includes the Kids Kitchen which is furnished with cooking workspaces and 4 stoves. The Kids Kitchen is also used daily for the school’s breakfast program. Along with the schools cooking facilities, Ardmona also has an abundance of other work

areas which includes the multipurpose room used for Music and student dining, multiple outdoor learning areas, synthetic basketball court, sensory garden and outdoor musical equipment. Classrooms are well resourced with interactive systems for online learning programs with each student provided with their own iPad and laptop to support online student programs.

Ardmona Primary School has a high ratio of staff beyond its generalist classroom teachers which includes Student Wellbeing, Education Support and Sports.

The school also has a specialist Art and Library teacher. A key staff member and undoubtedly the most loved is school dog Rui who is partaking in therapy dog training with Therapy Animals Australia where the partnership between Ardmona PS and Therapy Animals continues to blossom. A continuum of student learning at the school goes beyond each school day during its impending return of the outside school hours care (OSHC) service, which will be made available from 3.30pm to 5pm which is set to restart at the beginning of Term 2.

Accomplishments in individual student high ability programs are steered in the school’s literacy and numeracy programs with significant impact.

Ardmona Primary School are now taking enrolments for all year levels for 2025 and are available for school tours for parents and families.

All Saints Anglican School

Nurturing potential at All Saints

Term Two into our first year and All Saints Anglican School is well and truly up and going. We have opened with 226 students with all classes from Prep to Year 7 close to full.

Our children have been enjoying learning in their purpose-built learning spaces that provide the ideal setting for explicit teaching. Access to the outdoors from most classrooms as well as a number of break out spaces allow the explicit teaching to extend to inquiry and play based learning.

Specialist science, hospitality, visual arts, music and design technology rooms enhance the opportunities for learning that our children have been enjoying. Our new library is an additional space

for children to read, borrow books and do research. Our Lego club operates out of the library as well.

All Saints Anglican School is structured around a Junior School, Prep to Year 4, and a Middle School, Years 5 – 7. Developmentally appropriate learning is provided in each of our schools. Our play spaces provide separate areas for our Junior School and Middle School students as well as having some areas that can be used for all age groups to play together.

As an Anglican School, we celebrate and welcome people of all faiths and no faith. Each week, our children have a Religious and Values Education class where they can talk about what

is important in their own faith and build an understanding of the faiths of others. This is an important part of an All Saints education so that students can build a strong understanding and acceptance of difference. Additionally, they all attend an age-appropriate Chapel Service each week.

Every fortnight, a whole campus assembly is held. During assembly, we celebrate the successes of our students, we explore our values and we have already heard some beautiful musical performances. It is impressive that our students already have a very strong understanding of what is expected of them as an attentive, respectful and engaged audience.

We will continue to strive to make All Saints a school where our students, staff and families feel known and cared for. It is exciting to dream about how far the school will grow in the coming terms and years having had such an incredible first term together.

FOUNDATION ENROLMENTS FOR 2025

The following Shepparton, Mooroopna, Tatura and district schools are currently accepting enrolments for the 2025 school year

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