For further information refer to pages 2, 3, 32 & 33.
Christian Schools pages 40, 41, 44, 45, 58, 59, 64 & 65
Wesley College pages 76 & 77
Our ELC provides the foundations for our students to learn, grow and embrace all that life presents to them. As one of our Lead Educators, Isabelle ensures that our youngest Haileyburians start their school journey right — learning the values of education, caring for the environment and most importantly, discovering more about themselves — all with a healthy dose of fun.
Call the ACD Support Line today and get help to make the most of your child’s plan.
We offer a FREE telephone advocacy service for Victorian families of children with developmental delay or disability. No diagnosis is needed to use our service.
ACD is a not-for-profit organisation providing free information, advocacy and support in Victoria.
We help families and professionals access NDIS services through:
• ACD Support Line operated by trained and trusted advisors
• Workshops conducted by professional facilitators who are parents of children with disability
• Easy access, practical information and resources available on our website 03 9880 7000 or 1800 654 013 (regional)
www.acd.org.au
www.baysouthps.edu.au
Bayswater South is a co-educational Government School in the Eastern suburbs of Melbourne. One of the few truly bilingual primary schools inVictoria,we have a proud history of over 30 years of delivering a unique English/German bilingual program.
Our mission is to embrace diversity and develop global citizenship through a vibrant learning community. We do this using our three pillars – Bilingual Education, IB – PrimaryYears Programme and a schoolwide approach toWellbeing; leading the way in best practice teaching and learning, with a focus on supporting the academic progress andpersonaldevelopmentofeachstudent.
This difference, or addition, to a standard Government school education, is what makes us stand out as a leading choice for your child’s education.
Why bilingual?
We strongly believe that every child deserves a bilingual education.
Language teachers and educational psychologists have long held the view that learning another language increases and enhances students’ deductive and problemsolving skills. Having frequent practice in working out meaning, making links, and drawing conclusions in the language class, enhances these skills in a broader sense, in other areas of the curriculum and in life in general. Knowledge of more than one language has long-term cultural, social and economic benefits. Tolerance, respect and co-operation are all improved through bilingual education, while being bilingual enhances future job prospects.
What is the IB – Primary Years Programme?
Bayswater South Primary School is proud to beanaccreditedIBWorldSchoolofferingthe PrimaryYears Programme (PYP).
At Bayswater South we align our vision and missionwiththatoftheIB,inwhichwestrive to, ‘develop inquiring, knowledgeable and
caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect’. As a bilingual school, we are in the unique position withinAustralia to develop students who are multilingual, internationally minded andwhoaredriventotakeactioninthelocal and global community.
Our school’s curriculum framework encompasses that of the Victorian Curriculum, the IB PYP Curriculum and Bilingual Education.
Wellbeing
At Bayswater South Primary School, we value student voice, student engagement and connectedness of students and their families from Foundation toYear 6.We are: A connected community
Bayswater South Primary School fosters strong relationships with the local German community as well as other organisations and benefits from the support of a vibrant and engaged parent community. With the ongoing contributions from our parents and local partnerships, we have been able to provide playgrounds, learning spaces, Chaplaincy, Connect Groups and a newly formed ‘German Café’, with further development to follow.
A highlight of life at Bayswater South includes the opportunity for all students from Foundation to Year 6, to lead the school. From SRC, to student-led assembly, to student input in their learning experiences, our students develop as team playing, confident young individuals, who live out our school values of Respect, Empathy,Honesty andTeamwork.
We warmly invite you to take a tour of our school, to learn more about the benefits of an education at Bayswater South Primary School.
IT takes a team to build a dream!
We are the team at Beaconsfield Primary School. Whilst our beautiful classrooms and play spaces and wonderful learning resources enhance your child’s school life and learning experiences; it is our beliefs and the way that we work together that makes Beaconsfield Primary School unique.
The teacher - student relationship is treasured at Beacy, it underpins our work and our beliefs. We believe that every child: should be accepted for who they are unconditionally. should have a safe, positive and supportive environment to learn in. should be respected, recognised and valued for their diverse needs and abilities. should be challenged so that they reach their potential - holding expectations high. should have a teacher that understands them and teaches with passion and commitment.
deserves a teacher who models honesty and ethical behaviour so that they in turn learn the value of truthfulness and accountability.
Student voice is encouraged at Beaconsfield Primary School - Every Face has a Place: from Prep to Yr. 6, all children have the right to be heard. They have a voice and opportunities to express their thoughts.
everyone has the right to express ourselves and an obligation to listen to others and we respect their right to hold their views and share them.
we elevate and praise our children, encouraging them to appreciate the efforts of their peers, building friendships and goodwill through appreciations.
We strive to ensure each child achieves their potential. We will do our best to ensure that our children are:
confident learners; that they try their best, challenge themselves and pursue excellence. resilient and bounce back when they experience difficulties. given the opportunity to develop a strong sense of justice, values and beliefs. ambitious, imaginative and academically competent. develop a sense of fun and of wonder. enthusiastic and optimistic about their futures.
For enrolment enquires for Prep 2024, please contact our school office in term 2, 2023. Phone: 9707 1510.
Sincerely,
Heidi Inglis (Principal) and the staff of Beaconsfield Primary School
12566366-AV13-23
WE have enjoyed an excellent start to this school year.LastIspokeoftheimportanceofadaptability as a key theme for all schools as we moved past the early years of the Covid-19 pandemic. That we are in a position now to speak with justifiable optimism and enthusiasm, I believe speaks volumes for everyone associated with our school.
Whilst NAPLAN results are far and away from the be-all and end-all of school performance, they do nonetheless provide a valuable snapshot of student progress in the key areas of literacy and numeracy.The2022NAPLANresultspaintavery heartening picture of our student achievement in these areas. With over 2000 primary schools, including both public and private schools in Victoria, our average, aggregate score of 500.6 has our school ranked at 133 state-wide. This is no inconsiderable achievement, given the widely diverse socio-economic profile of schools across the state, not to mention the huge differential in funding levels between public and private schools.
As I have often said primary schools should be focused on providing all children with a richly diverse curriculum. Specialism comes later. In the field of digital technologies, for example, following the completion our innovative, fully 3DAugmentedReality(AR)illustratedchildren’s story book, Hettie & Harry’s Forest Adventure, students now can engage with AR class lessons
at our school.
Student wellbeing always has and remains a key focus for our school. The Covid-19 pandemic certainly has thrown the spotlight on a growing need for greater attention to be paid to the wellbeing, including mental health of our students. It goes without saying that whilst wellbeing and learning are inextricably linked, without healthy bodies and minds, learning is severely curtailed.
To this end we have already employed a fully qualified,registerednurseasourfulltimefirstaid officer at our school this year. In addition, we will have a qualified psychologist employed, 4 days per week at our school, within weeks. I am particularly pleased to be able to announce this, astheservicestoschoolsinthisareaarecurrently extremely limited systemically.
This is just the tip of the iceberg, so to speak, of what is on offer at our school. Get in touch with us for a personal tour and conversation with our school leaders if you may be interested enrolling your child here.
You can also check out our website - there’s a virtual tour there too.
Henry Grossek, Principal Berwick Lodge Primary School
BOROONDARA Park Primary School offers a wide range of experiences and educational opportunities, so all students can succeed. Our comprehensive curriculum is complemented by studies in languages, the arts, physical education and STEM.
The school’s priority is to develop the whole child academically, culturally, emotionally, physically and socially within a caring and supportive environment. While catering for all ability levels, staff focus is on maximising achievement for every student in English and Mathematics.
Our Values and Motto
Our School Motto is Care, Learn and Share. Our school values are respect, care, trust, fostering growth and development.
Underpinning our school motto and values is the development and common understanding of the three rights.
■ The right to learn
■ The right to feel safe
■ The right to be respected
As a community we understand with each right there is an equal responsibility. These three responsibilities are held up alongside our rights.
■ We are responsible for ensuring we try our best and have a positive impact on the learning of others.
■ We are responsible for ensuring others feel safe physically and emotionally.
■ We have the responsibility to treat others fairly and with respect.
We believe every child can learn and they have the right to reach their full potential.
Boroondara Park is a hidden gem in Balwyn North with an active and supportive community. We view a child’s education as a joint responsibility between school, parents, and child. Tothisendweencourageparentalinvolvementin many areas including classroom helpers, celebrations, open days, assemblies, end of term learning Expos, sporting activities, camps and excursions.
Learning to learn is a particular focus with the intent of fostering a lifelong love of exploring and problem solving, asking questions and seeking knowledge. We work to empower our students by providing a challenging and enriching primary schoolexperience.Weencouragestudentstotake responsibilityforgoalsetting,tobeself-motivated and appreciate the intrinsic value of learning. By guiding them to use their skills and knowledge to make responsible contributions to the global environment and embrace kindness, we work to ensure learning goes beyond the boundaries of the classroom.
Our school has before and after school care, a schoolcanteenandmanyextracurriculaactivities and programs for students to participate in, including instrumental music, chess and sporting activities.BoroondaraParkPrimarySchoolisable to take International Students for study in Victoria.
Come and visit Boroondara Park and find out why it is the school for your child. School tours available each week, call and book a time to visit.
2024 FOUNDATION INFORMATION NIGHT
Monday May 15th 7.00pm
OPEN DAY - All Day
Thursday May 18th
SCHOOL TOURS 9.15am, 11.15am & 2pm
• Comprehensive academic programs
• Specialist programs run all year
• Expansive natural grounds
• Friendly community culture
• Whole child development - academic, cultural, emotional, physical and social
Come and visit Boroondara Park and find out why it is the school for your child. School tours available each week, call +61 39857 5157 and book a time to visit.
40 Almond St, Balwyn North VIC 3104, Australia
www.bpark.vic.edu.au
boroondara.park.ps@education.vic.gov.au
BORONIA K-12 College is committed to developing students into responsible members of the local, national and global community. Throughout all stages of schooling we aim to develop learners that strive to be:
■ Skilled communicators
■ Constructors of knowledge
■ Real world problem-solvers
■ Ethical users of technology
To achieve this, we offer quality teaching and learning programs delivered by skilled and innovative professionals. Our contemporary buildings and grounds are second to none, providing a stimulating learning environment wherestudentsareabletomaximizetheirpotential.
Transitioning into Boronia K-12 College, students experience a challenging, differentiated curriculumdesignedtoallowthemtodemonstrate their abilities and progress their learning.
Ensuring Year 7 students are happy and confident is a priority, supporting them with a dedicated team of experienced teachers in our Year 7/8 building. Within this space, majority of Year 7 classes are held, with students developing a sense of ownership and pride over their environment, and a sense of belonging and community.
Our Years 7-9 programs build foundations for success. We emphasise core literacy and
numeracy skills across the curriculum, with students accessing Spanish as their language study. Students have expanding opportunities to refine pathways by selecting an increasing number of electives in Year 9 and beyond.
Substantial research has been conducted into engaging Year 9 students, preparing them for the demands of their final years of school. In response, alongside our school data, we have shaped a Year 9 program to develop the academic, creative, physical and emotional aspects of our students through engaging, inquiry based learning experiences, fostering independence and reigniting a passion for learning. Students have the opportunity to participate in Leadership Development programs, City Experience, and community based projects.
Transitioning into Years 10-12, opportunities to refine pathways open, and students are provided a range of subjects from all area of the VCE, VCE Vocational and VET curriculums.
Year 10’s encouraged to undertake VCE or VET unit in preparation etc.
Book a school tour; https://www.boroniak-12. vic.edu.au/enrolments/college-tours/
A STUDY of43,000studentsintheUnitedKingdom released recently has demonstrated that it not only matters that kids read: it matters what they read.
The significant study showed that students who engaged in reading high-quality books daily scored much higher in tests than those who chose to read items such as magazines. .
Griffith University’s Beryl Exley, Professor of English Curriculum & Literacies Education in the School of Education and Professional Studies, explains why it is important to encourage the reading of books - and why other reading materials are still important:
“Comics, newspapers and magazines don’t escalate children’s cognitive skills as much because they usually present everyday concepts with everyday vocabulary in a practical way.
“Story books and information books usually present academic concepts with a more technical vocabulary in an abstract way. This is what grows cognitive capacity.
“That’s not to say that comics, newspapers and magazine don’t ever focus on academic concepts, but it’s less likely that will happen.
Children still should be encouraged to read comics,newspapersandmagazinesforpleasure,to addtotheirgeneralknowledgeandtobepolitically aware. Breadth of reading opportunities is the goal.”
For more information, please contact Professor Beryl Exley, Deputy Head of School - Learning & Teaching in the School of Education and Professional Studies at Griffith University at b.exley@griffith.edu.au
Associate Professor Michael Nagel from the University of the Sunshine Coast says,”This study resonates with a growing corpus of literature suggestingthatreadingpaperbasedbooksoffersa distinct advantage for achieving excellent standards of literacy and higher academic achievement.
“Aside from a range of issues associated with reading on screens, and an oft held sacred cow suggesting that children should be offered anything to read just as long as they are reading, this study links with others that have identified that children prefer to read books on paper rather
thanscreensandthatacademicsuccessislinkedto developing a rich understanding of complex text through books over the school years.
“This is not to say that children should be discouraged from other types of reading but that booksshouldbeattheforefrontofsuchendeavour. Reading, and reading comprehension, are not general skills and both are nurtured through incrementally complex text in age appropriate books over the course of a child’s life and educational journey.”
For more information, please contact Associate Professor Michael Nagel in Child Development and Learning at the University of the Sunshine Coast at mnagel@usc.edu.au
Children who read books daily score higher in school tests, vast new study states
What children choose to read outside school directly influences their academic performance according to a major new study by the University of Malaga and UCL, and published in the peerreviewed journal Oxford Review of Education.
Using longitudinal census data to look at more than 43,000 students, aged 10 to 11 and then again when they were 13 to 14, the research provides substantial evidence that pupils who enjoy reading high-quality books daily score higher in tests.
The average marks of pupils who read books rose by 0.22 points overall, which is the equivalent of 3 months’ worth of additional secondary school academic growth.
The study demonstrated no similar advantage for children’s reading daily newspapers, comics or magazines, and only marginal benefits from short stories.
The findings have important implications for parents, teachers and policymakers, and the international research team is recommending that young people devote their reading time solely to books.
“Although three months’ worth of progress may sound comparatively small to some people, it equates to more than 10% of the three academic secondary school years measured – from when these young people are aged 11 years old to 14, which we know is a hugely developmental period,” explains co-author Professor John Jerrim, from the UCL Institute of Education.
“In an increasingly digital world, it’s important that young people are encouraged to find time to read a good book.”
Professor Oscar Marcenaro-Gutierrez, from the University of Malaga, added: “Other less complex and less engaging forms of reading are unlikely to bring the same benefits for their cognitive development, and shouldn’t be counted as part of their reading time.
“This is particularly important for low-achievers, where any association is likely to be strongest.”
Co-author Dr Luis Alejandro Lopez-Agudo, from the University of Malaga, says: “Reading is a fundamental skill that plays a key part in all our lives.
“Our results provide further evidence that it’s not only whether young people read or not that matters – but also what they read.”
The amount of time children spend reading is already understood to help develop their literacy skills. This ability increases through practice and by trying longer and more challenging texts.
Fewstudiesthoughhavefocusedonwhetherthe type of material children choose influences their achievements at school.
This study, looking at pupils in Spain, attempted to establish whether a link exists between literacy and mathematics scores and the type of material children look at in their spare time, as well as how long they spend doing this. Comics, short stories, books, newspapers and magazines were the texts included in the research.
The researchers used data from a census carried out by the Andalusian Agency of Education Assessment. This included questionnaire
responses completed during 2008 to 2009 by 10 to 11-year-olds, and from those aged 13 to 14 during 2011 and 2012.
Children’s attitudes towards school were considered along with prior achievement levels. Parents were also asked about their own reading habits and how involved they were in their child’s education.
The results showed the more frequently children read books, the better they performed in school tests as teenagers. The same effect was not observed with comics, newspapers and magazines. Specifically, researchers found:
■ 13 to 14-year-olds who read books every or almosteverydayscored0.22standarddeviations higher (the equivalent of three months) on the literacy test than those who read books almost never.
■ There is evidence of positive spill-overs into other subjects, with a difference of around 0.20 standard deviations in mathematics.
■ There was some benefit from short stories for children who enjoyed them at least once a month. The researchers concluded though that increasing the frequency of this to weekly or daily was unlikely to bring any further benefits. The study also highlighted the reading patterns across different groups of children. It showed:
■ Girls seem to read short stories, books and newspapers more frequently than boys, and comics and magazines less frequently.
■ Young people from advantaged backgrounds read all the text types more frequently than those from disadvantaged homes.
■ High-achieving students (according to their 5th grade test scores) were more likely to read tales/ short novels and books compared to lowachieving students, though with little difference in terms of reading comics, newspapers and magazines.
The findings of this study should be interpreted in the context of some limitations and the need for further research. These include the research being carried out in one particular region within Spain, and the focus upon academic progress made during the early teenage years. At this point, reading skills are already quite well-developed –there is no data for younger children.
CARRINGTON Primary highlights the importance of positive learning experiences, nurturing and fostering student growth through a range of authentic opportunities. Carrington has a strong curriculum focus and a dedication to developing the whole child. Hands on learning is a priority at Carrington ensuring students utilise materials and resources to engage in daily tasks.
We highly encourage and support the homeschool partnership to ensure clear and consistent communicationbetweenallstakeholders,allowing familiestoshareinthelearningjourneythroughout the primary school years. As a community based school we have an open door policy that promotes parental involvement at all levels.
The school is surrounded by lush gardens, providing a warm and welcoming environment. Wehaveextensiveoutdoorspacesthatareshaded and provide learning opportunities both inside and outside the regular classroom.
Our boutique school provides students with smaller class sizes, therefore allowing us to individualise personal learning and support student needs. Each classroom is well resourced providing rich learning opportunities across all curriculum areas. Our dedicated teachers and educational support staff formulate quality programstocaterforstudentsofallneeds.Awide range of technological experiences are incorporated into all curriculum areas ensuring students are capable, proficient and developing the necessary skills to become competent 21st century learners.
The modern Learning Centre is well equipped with resources, cooking facilities, technology and highlighted by the Creative Learning opportunities for students to further explore and direct their own experiences. These foster social, imaginative and creative play interactions.
Carrington Primary School promotes positive learning experiences throughout the school. We are very well resourced with our programs including:
■ Reading and Writing workshop models;
■ Hands on mathematics using a wide range of materials and real world connections;
■ Additional literacy/numeracy supports from Foundation through to Year 6;
■ Lunch-timeclubsincludingmindfulness,board games, mini team games, gardening, choir and STEM building and exploring.
■ A wide range of interactive robotics within our S.T.R.E.A.M. program including Beebots, Spheros and Edison bots;
■ Interactive teaching boards within each classroom for instruction;
■ Physical Education, Music/Performing Arts and Visual Arts as specialised classes;
■ Student leadership opportunities school-wide;
■ A well organised buddy program to support our Foundation students;
■ Well equipped facilities for recess and lunchtime play; and
■ Cooking and gardening experiences.
As a school we instil our values and vision into our wider school community, promoting individual success, respect, inclusiveness, determination and empathy. Our school Chaplain provides well-being supports for students as well as providing stimulating and engaging lunchtime tasks for student engagement.
The school provides an Out of Hours Care program before and after school, as well as operating throughout the holiday period to cater for busy working families. We look forward to showcasing our school to your family.
Regards,
Brett Speed
DOVETON College is a vibrant learning community serving the families, children and young people of Doveton. Our multicultural community extends beyond the College. We welcome everyone to engage with the educational programs and activities on offer.
Our primary school for years Prep – 6, provides a stimulating, engaging and student centred learning program, that targets learning for each individual at their point of need. Our Early Learning Centre has funded 3 and 4 year old kindergarten programs that prepare children for a smooth and successful start to school in Prep. Similarly, children from year 6 transition seamlessly into our year 7 – 9 program. Our facilities are state of the art and purpose built to provide a strong academic base in Numeracy and Literacy, enriched through studies in STEM, the Arts and Humanities. These studies are complemented by many opportunities in art, media, music, design, and physical education. Our award-winning Arts program has been recognised nationally and internationally and we are frequently recognised for our high level of growth in NAPLAN outcomes.
Students across the College are supported by
the Learning Enhancement team who run small groups in Numeracy and Literacy for those who need additional support and extension. The wellbeing team coordinate referrals to the many medical and allied health services that are located at the College. This provides students with timely access to services as required.
Doveton College provides free after school engagement and extension activities for all students. Students can register each term to participate in a wide range of activities such as floristry, basketball, remote cars, soccer, music, dance, tennis, street art, debating, multisport, pottery and more. A homework club operates after school twice a week, where students can attend and receive 1:1 support.
More than just the academic outcomes, we are working with young people and their families to develop the whole person. Social and emotional growth is so important for all young people. Our teachers and support staff make sure that they understand each student as a person, working with their individual interests and needs, supporting every student to reach their potential.
Enrolment enquiries are always welcome.
WE are honoured to again represent Australia at aprestigious,internationalroboticschampionship event. Early in term 2 our students will travel to Texas, USA, to participate in the VEX world Robotics Championships. We are thrilled to be meeting with children from many countries and extend our global relationships in the context of a friendship building robotics tournament.
Robotics and coding have been important elementsofourcorecurriculumfromFoundation to Year 6 for many years. Our STEM program starts in the first year of school, in Term 4, when our Foundation students learn to code a robotic mouse to navigate a maze and find the cheese.
We have a strong belief that STEM and particularly robotics is important for the future and the present. By familiarizing students with programming, sensors and automation, and working collaboratively, they hone critical computational thinking, creative problem solving and team working skills needed to succeed in both the 21st century’s workforce and in everyday life. Our robotics program is one element of our extensive differentiated curriculum. Our school is also well known for our students’ excellent achievements particularly in literacy and numeracy.
In promoting student learning the wellbeing and mental health of our students is a priority
too. Parents leave their most treasured possession with us every day when they bring their child to school. We know that the trust they place in our staff, our expertise and our professionalism is well founded as we guide and teach each student to be the best they can.
That our students are happy to be at school developing strong friendships and social skills is important to their educational success. We work within a strong culture of collegiality and trust and have built positive relationships with our school community and beyond to sister schools overseas. We have confidence in the support we give to our students, staff and parents and in turn benefit from the trust and confidence they place in our school and the school leadership. We have built this trust over many years; it is treasured. As the saying goes ‘trust comes in on the back of a tortoise and leaves on the back of a galloping horse!’
I invite you to look at our website and the virtual school tours on the ‘enrolment’ page, especially the tour led by two of our younger students, which is a delight to watch.
Deborah Grossek (M.Ed.,B.Sc. Hons, B.Ed., Dip.T.) PrincipalGlendal Primary offers:
• Dedicated, professional high quality staff
• State-of-the-art Robotics and Science Facilities
• Language programs in Mandarin and French
• Opportunities and excellence in learning
• Environment and sustainability program
• Happy children who are learning successfully Children flourish and learn at Glendal
Please see our website for a virtual school tour School tours are held on-site at 9:30am, Tuesdays, during school terms.
Principal: Deborah Grossek
Phone: 03 9803 1330
Address: 55 Nottingham Street Email: glendal.ps@education.vic.gov.au
Glen Waverley VIC 3150 Website: glendalps.vic.edu.au
A new Integrated Learning Centre is under construction and will host the Good News Lutheran College Early Learning Centre (ELC). The ELC will provide a unique and nurturing environment for children
education.
We are committed to partnering with families to provide the best possible learning experience. An inquiry-based curriculum will follow the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme and the Australian Early Years Learning Framework.
The ELC will provide a balance of structured programs and play-based experiences, including nature and farm play using our unique ‘Old Farmhouse’ theme, to
The ELC will be located on southern end of the Tarneit from access to on site specialist facilities which may include Maternal Health Care facilities, a Speech Pathologist and visits from a wide range of teaching professionals.
More information will be available soon at our website www.goodnews.vic.edu.au including details on how to register your interest in this exciting new learning opportunity.
AFTER three years of the pandemic, much has changed, but uncertainty has not. Everyone is tired and the impact of COVID-19 has been profound in many ways, both on an individual basis and collectively. In writing this piece from the perspective of preparing for the 2023 school year,Iadmittobeingseriouslychallenged.Where do I start, on what do I focus, and how?
How does the 2023 school year look from the perspective of the past three years? I am sure it is a question many parents are asking of themselves both in observation of their children and the wide and varied commentary on the effects of the pandemic on student learning progress. I will do my best, mindful of the disparate outcomes of the past three years.
Undoubtedly, remote learning, lockdowns, and the continuing disruptive consequences of the pandemic have had a negative impact on both the learningandwellbeingofmanychildren.Insaying this, it is worth noting that the recently published ATAR results for Victorian VCE students this year are the best for several years. That this has happened reminds us that it can be prudent to withholdjudgementwhenconfrontedwithgloomy predictions, as we have been over the past three years, regarding student learning outcomes.
Reports are plentiful of the impact on the social and emotional wellbeing of students during the COVID-19 pandemic, with eminent child and adolescent psychologist, Dr Michael Carr-Gregg saying that he has not witnessed anything in the past 30 years like the increase in the number of youngsters presenting with suicidal thoughts and self-harm issues. Carr-Gregg suggests that effects such as these will be long term in nature.
It is hard not to be deeply concerned about observations and predictions such as these. In the context of the continuing shortage of teachers and specialist support staff such as psychologists and social workers available to schools the challenge is worrying. Some bright news does exist. The Victorian government is providing $200 million over four years and $93.7 million ongoing to expand the Mental Health in Primary Schools program to every government and low-fee non-
government primary school in Victoria.
Making matters worse insofar as school staffing is concerned, however, is the outright and increasingly brutal competition between schools and sectors for qualified staff. This is a direct consequence of the school staff shortage across all areas of school operations. In the short term, there is not much in the way of positive news on this front. One can only hope that continuing pressure brought to bear on our state and federal governments will see more equitable funding and resourcing policies for public schools being realised, sooner rather than later.
Now in the tail-end of the third year of the pandemic, school transition programs have been in full swing again. This is genuinely good news. The curtailment of transition programs from preschools to primary schools and from primary schoolstosecondaryschoolsintherecentpasthad made the transition process for many students very problematic. Schools, for their part have had to be very creative in managing the influx of students from either pre-schools or primary schools, respectively. Children now transitioning into primary and secondary schools should be enjoying a more comprehensive and reassuring process,somethingofwhichIwouldbelievewould be very heartening for parents. Teachers also!
The pandemic has thrown up many valuable talking points - the issue of the value of extracurricular (ECA) activities for children being one. During 2020-21, these types of activities were largely discontinued. Nowadays, they are back in vogue.
In the context of the continuing shortage of teachers and specialist support staff such as psychologists and social workers available to schools the challenge is worrying.
Grossek’s view
The research on the value of extra-curricular activities on student learning and wellbeing is fascinating.
Firstly, a large body of research conducted internationally prior to the pandemic has consistently shown positive relationships between ECA participation and cognitive, psychological, and social outcomes for children and adolescents. William Carbonaro, Associate Professor of Sociology, University of Notre Dame and Emily Maloney, a graduate sociology student at Duke University reviewed these findings in their joint paper, extracurricular Activities & Student Outcomes in Elementary& Middle School: causal effects or Self-selection. The study by Carbonaro and Maloney, concluded that because of methodological limitations, prior research failed to address the self-selection of advantaged families in ECAs, which raises concerns regarding whether ECA participation is causally related to student outcomes. Overall, their findings suggest that participation in ECAs during early primary school years has a small but positive causal effect on academic ability, which grow larger in later grades through to early secondary school. However, their findings provided little evidence that greater ECA participation improves students’ socioemotional skills in either early or later school years through to Year 8.
Here in Australia, research undertaken by University of Tasmania and Flinders University and cited in the journal, Developmental Psychology: Reducing Educational disparities Between Australian Adolescents in regional & Metropolitan Communities: The Compensatory Effects of Extracurricular Activities, presents a positive relationship between participation in ECAs and student learning and wellbeing. Broadly speaking then, children can only benefit from being involved in ECAs. Herein lies hope - if we are truly over the worst of the pandemic, then 2023 should see an increasing level of children engaged in ECAs.
In conclusion, it would be a very hard, if not impossible sell to suggest that 2023 will not be a very challenging year for all school students. There will be the lingering social and emotional falloutforsomestudentsfromtheremotelearning and lockdowns. This, coupled with critical
shortages in school staff and ancillary support services, won’t lead to as swift a recovery as we would like.
On the other hand, the pandemic has, inadvertently provided us with an opportunity to pivot in our approach to teaching and learningmost particularly in technology. The importance of wellbeing, whilst not neglected previously, now commands a prominence in our funding and delivery of a quality education for all. Kindness springs to mind!
Always the optimist, I draw great comfort in the knowledge that humans, as a species, have displayed great resilience and adaptability over the ages and that it is easy to underestimate the capabilities of our young, especially from the perspective of the old.
Henry Grossek, Berwick Lodge Primary School principal hosts Viewpoints on Casey Radio 97.7FM and presents the weekly podcast series: The Viewpoints Podcast
Haileybury’s ELC program is all about exploring a love of learning
EVERY day brings adventures in Haileybury’s Berwick ELC classrooms. A blend of intentional teaching, organic learning and discovery, and a focus on literacy and numeracy skills build strong foundationsaseachchildbeginstheireducational journey.
Children might spend time outdoors learning about Indigenous plants and bush tucker and discovering how the changing climate and seasons affect what plants can grow where. On another day they might see a plane fly overhead and that will spark a conversation about how an aeroplane stays in the air and the wonders of space travel.
Some days ELC children explore their communities to learn about local wildlife and landmarks and the community groups that are part of their neighbourhood.
The play-based learning and activities that support learning look different each day and the curriculum is led by the children’s curiosity, creativity and interests.
“We listen to what the children say and this helps educators to encourage a genuine love of learning in each child,” says Lisa Christopher, Director of Early Learning at Haileybury.
“An educator may notice that a child wants to take part in water play. Through that play, the educatorcanthenintroducescienceconceptslike floating and sinking, bring in maths vocabulary such as ‘full’, ‘empty’, ‘heavy’ and ‘light’, and encourage a child to test theories during their play.
“We believe children have unlimited potential. So, we design a play-based environment that caters for all developmental areas, engages a child’s sense of wonder, and supports them to develop a growth mindset.”
The play-based learning and exploration is underpinned by a strong focus on children learning how to read and write. They also begin to develop their numeracy skills and by the time ELC children start Prep, they have strong foundational skills to build on and have confidence to tackle more complex literacy and numeracy lessons.
We use the Jolly Phonics multi-sensory approach that teaches children phonic sounds and letter names. This program starts in the ELC and continues into Prep and helps children learn to read and write sooner,” says Ms Christopher.
“Tobuildnumeracyskills,childrenusedifferent materials to learn mathematical language and concepts like number value, sequencing, addition and subtraction.”
We believe children have unlimited potential. So, we design a play-based environment that caters for all developmental areas, engages a child’s sense of wonder, and supports them to develop a growth mindset.
The ELC years at the Berwick campus also help children to understand and regulate their emotions so they can build positive friendships with their classmates.
Health and wellbeing are also prioritised with an appreciation of the close links between learningandacademicperformanceandahealthy mind and body.
Head of Berwick ELC, Sara Hall, says children look forward to weekly specialist Physical Education and movement classes that promote coordination, balance, controlling muscle movement, spatial awareness, concentration and listeningskills.ELCchildrenusecampusfacilities and also join in Junior School Sporting events such as House Athletics.
“Organised sport in early education has many psychological and social benefits. Sport helps children develop positive self-esteem, promotes ways to learn about and cope with varying emotions, and creates opportunities to build resilience,” says Ms Hall.
“ELC is all about supporting children to reach their learning potential, enjoy respectful relationships and contribute to their world.”
Ms Christopher says the children and their needs are at the forefront of everything that happens within the classrooms and play areas at Berwick ELC.
“The children celebrate their individuality,
develop positive relationships, acknowledge diversity and develop care and empathy for others. The connections they make within ELC continue throughout their school life,” she says.
‘The teachers are exceptional, they are so kind, nurturing and have a way of getting the best out ofeverychild,bothacademicallyandemotionally.’
‘The engagement and enrichment that the program provides him [my son] is beyond what we could have imagined.’
‘It’s incredible how every single child is so excited to be at ELC. Caring and dedicated staff provideanamazingenvironmentforkidstolearn, be social and develop friendships.’
Discover more about Haileybury by visiting haileybury.com.au.
ELC is all about supporting children to reach their learning potential, enjoy respectful relationships and contribute to their world.
Harkaway Hills College was founded with the support of the Parents for Education (PARED) Foundation, who have opened four schools across NSW over the past 40 years. What makes Harkaway Hills exceptional is our unique system of personalised education that assists parents as the primary educators of their children and supports each student to be the best person they can be. Our motto says a great deal about our ethos: Veritas et Virtus. “Truth and Virtue.”
We pride ourselves on our quality academic curriculum, personalised learning through a mentor system, religious education, and an emphasis on virtue education.
Parents and the school can begin to work on character development from the outset, with a mentor who works closely with each child. The college works with tried-and-true methods to ensure that crucial steps in early literacy to give each child the academic focus they deserve.
Shrouded by the natural beauty of lush, rolling green hills, the college punches well above its weight for a school that only opened five years ago. Last year’s student highlights include winning the interschool cross country
2023 Open Days
Term 1
Friday 17 March (full)
Friday 28 April (full)
Term 2 Mon 15 May Friday 9 June
Open Days commence at 10:00 am
carnival, taking out a state-wide poetry competition and coming out on top of a local short story competition. The schools bumper NAPLAN results were also a highlight, placing the primary school second in Victoria.
The school is co-educational from Prep to Year 2 and single sex to Year 9 in 2024. Our brother school Lysterfield Lake College is accepting enrolments for boys from Years 3-7.
Term 3
Monday 7 August
Friday 8 September
Term 4 Monday 16 October
Hartwell Primary School extends a very warm welcome to all parents of children who will be beginning school in 2024.
We share with you the excitement and the responsibilityofensuringyourchildrenenjoy a happy, secure and successful education at our school. It is indeed a pleasure to work with your children.
Hartwell Primary School has a strong history of excellence in learning and prides itself on providing a challenging and comprehensive curriculum for each child in a caring and stimulating environment.
We aim to facilitate success in learning and encourage children to develop their full potential, academically, emotionally, physically and socially. We actively encourage the development of confident, articulate and independent learners who demonstrate self-discipline, self-reliance and a pride in themselves and their school in a 21st century learning environment.
Learn about the Prep curriculum, discover the learning spaces, meet the teachers and hear about all the activities that make Prep such a special year at Hartwell.
Wednesday 17th May at 7pm (Onsite)
Tuesday 18th July at 7pm (Virtual – Webex)
Milverton Street, Camberwell. 3124
School Tours Onsite
every Tuesday at 9.30am from Term 2 (2nd May 2023)
& Saturday 20th May at 9.30am
Transition Program
Hartwell Primary School extends a very warm welcome to all parents of children who will be beginning school in 2024. We have a number of opportunities for you to join us during the 2023 school year to support your family with a successful transition to primary school.
For information about school tours and transition call (03) 9889 4012 and view our website: www.hartwellps.vic.edu.au
Join us to prepare for school in 2024 in Term 3 and Term 4 12591675-HC13-23
STARTING school is a big step for you and your child. It can be both challenging and exciting. As families, the support you give your child is important because you are your child’s first and most important teacher.
Tips for transition
Below are some tips on how you can help your child have a positive start to school.
The year before school
■ Ask your child what they think about starting school.
■ Encourage your child to ask questions about going to school.
■ Help your child stay healthy. Make sure they have regular health and dental checks and keep immunisations up to date.
■ Encourage your child to try to do things on their own such as dressing, going to the toilet, washing their hands, unwrapping their food and opening and closing their drink bottle.
■ Talk to friends and other families about what school is like.
■ Attend transition-to-school programs and activities at your child’s early years service and school.
■ Talk to your child’s early childhood educator about things you can do at home to help your child’s learning and development.
■ Talk to the school about how you can engage in yourchild’slearninganddevelopmentatschool.
■ Ask the school what time your child starts on the first day and where to take them.
■ During the summer holidays
■ Show your child where the school is and talk about how you will get there.
■ Arrange play-times with other families whose children will be going to the same school as your child. It helps if your child knows another child at their school at the start of prep.
■ Practise the things your child will need to do to get ready for school (e.g. putting things in their bag, remembering to take a hat).
■ Confirm your before or after school care arrangements. Show your child where the outside school hours care facilities are and talk about how they will get there.
■ Be positive about starting school and enjoy your child’s excitement.
■ Visit your local library and read books with your child about starting school. The first day of school
■ Make sure your child knows who will take them to school and pick them up on the first day.
■ Help your child to organise their clothes, hat, shoes and socks the night before.
■ Help your child to pack their school bag with a snack, drink, lunch and a hat.
■ Place a spare pair of underpants and a change of clothes in a plastic bag. Let your child know these clothes are in their bag in case of any accidents at school.
■ Put sunscreen on your child in the morning if it is needed.
■ Show your child where you will meet them at the end of the school day.
■ At the end of the day talk to your child about what happened at school.
The first year of school
■ Find out about what your child is learning at school. By doing this, you can support your child’s learning and find out how your child is adjusting to school.
■ If your child is having difficulty at school, talk to their teacher. Your child can also say what they think might help them.
■ Keep talking to your child about school. Ask them about their new experiences, what they like and what they find hard.
■ If your child attends an outside school hours care service, find a way of sharing your child’s school progress with the staff.
■ Sharefeedbackaboutyourchild’sexperienceof starting school with the school and early childhood service.
■ Organise time for your child and their new friends to play together outside of school.
Local early childhood services and schools will organise their own transition-to-school programs and activities each year. To find out more, talk to your child’s early childhood educator or contact the school where your child is enrolled.
Ref:http://www.education.vic.gov.au/childhood/ parents/transition/pages/supporttransition.aspx
Whether
Heritage College is a coeducational dual-campus school, providing excellence in Christian education in Narre Warren South and Officer.
From 3 & 4 year old Early Learning to Year 12, students at Heritage College are inspired to achieve their best academically, socially, emotionally and physically.
In addition to the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), Heritage College provides senior students an alternative pathway to their chosen vocation through the VCE Vocational Major (VM) program.
Highvale Primary School provides a caring, safe and vibrant learning environment where every student is valued as an individual. We welcome and work closely with parents and families to support positive learning, social and physical outcomes for every student.
Our school community is rich in cultural and language diversity, which provides many wonderful opportunities for authentic learning about our local and global environment and inclusive behaviours. Our School Values of Respect, Responsibility, Commitment, Honesty and Integrity, provide framework for how we play and work with each other and are taught explicity across the school. This proactive approach to wellbeing is known as ‘Positive
Behaviour for Learning’ and is central to the calm, inclusive and supportive learning environment you will experience as you tour our school.
Well known as a high performing, medium sized school, our evidence based teaching practices support a long tradition of excellent student outcomes across all learning areas of the Victorian Curriculum. As well, our extracurricular opportunities and extensive specialist program support high engagement levels and achievement in local, state and national events and competitions. Specialists include our Science, Technology and Arts program known as STEAM, Performing Arts, Physical Education and Languages, Mandarin or German.
Wewelcomeyoutocontactour office on 9887 8000 to book a school tour with the principal and see our school in action. Tours are held every Wednesday morning at 9.30am and bookings are essential.
Our Early Learning Centre caters for 3-5-year-old children with Long Day Care and Sessional 3 and 4 year old kindergarten.
Long Day Care is open from 7:00am till 6:00pm from February to December. The daily fee is $95 and families are eligible for Child Care Subsidy, we provide all meals and enrolment is through our ELC office. You can add your child’s name to our waitlist here prodadmin.myxplor.com/enrollment/index/RGtMbHhkUEdLeGh3VnZ1eWFqNEtUUT09
We offer an integrated, funded 3 and 4 year old kindergarten program.
We have two three-year-old kindergarten groups for the year children are turning 4. The Joey group operates on Wednesday from 1pm to 3.30pm and Friday 8:30am to 11:00am (5hours). The Echidna Group operates Monday 8.30am to 3.30pm, Wednesday 8.30am to 12.30pm and Friday 11.30am to 3.3-pm (15hours) Enrolment is through Casey Council, www.casey.vic.gov.au/kindergarten-registration. We have elected to participate in the DET Free kindergarten www.vic.gov.au/give-your-child-the-best-start-in-life so no parent fees are charged.
Our four year old sessional kindergarten for the year children are turning five enrolment is also through Casey Council. We have a variety of timetable options to suit families and a high level of involvement within the Primary School.
The quality of the learning and nurturing received by the children at our Early Learning Centre is fundamental to their success in later years. Learning is hands on, interactive and investigative to encourage the development of an inquiring mind. We provide a balance of play-based learning with structured routines so children can make choices and follow their interests while learning to be part of a group. Children then gain skills and confidence to transition seamlessly to school. Children participate in weekly Music and Physical Education group times within the kindergarten program.
For enquiries please contact elc@hillsmeade.vic.edu.au
Director of Family Services
Shiona Watson
LOCATED at the gateway to Endeavour Hills, James Cook Primary is a school with strong values, providing positive learning opportunities and a well-rounded education. Confidence, a sense of belonging, along with a growth mindset are developed through our engaging and challenging curriculum. We enjoy all the benefits associated with our cultural diversity and cater to the needs of all students. Our school provides students with a happy and active start to their schoolinginasafeandsecurefamilyenvironment. James Cook Primary School is the school of first choice for many parents and carers. We enjoy a highly regarded reputation for welcoming our community into our school.
James Cook Primary School is committed to delivering excellence in education in a culture of high expectations. Our dedicated teachers commit to strengthening their capacity for teaching, to ensure your children receive high-quality teaching and learning. James Cook Primary School challenges students to be actively involved in their learning and strive to be the best they can be. Parents work in partnership with our staff to ensure the best outcomes for all learners.
Parents’ support and involvement are essential to the success of our students. We encourage parents and carers to become involved in their child’s learning. Our School Council welcomes your support and interest and is a welcome opportunity to work closely with other parents and staff to enhance the learning experience for
our children here at James Cook Primary School.
Students at James Cook are happy, caring and enthusiastic about their learning.
Our school boasts a range of learning spaces and facilities that enable the delivery of a variety of enhanced learning programs; Four open and flexible learning modules, a multipurpose hall, a Library-Specialists’ Centre, ‘Cook’s Kitchen’ classroom kitchen and a Visual Arts Centre. The James Cook Primary School community is committed to environmental sustainability.
Our highly invested Student Voice and Engagement Team, of students from Years 2-6, represent our student body ensures a studentcentred environment. Student-led community activities are a highlight on our school calendar each year, with our school assemblies led by our student leaders each week.
Weareproudofourcommunitypartnershipsat James Cook Primary, including those with Food Bank Breakfast Club, Kids Hope Mentoring, Sporting Schools Activities and TheirCare Before-and-After School services.
Come and see for yourself. We are now taking enrolments for 2022. School tours for families wishing to enrol their children are conducted every Friday at 9:15am. Please contact our reception to reserve your place, on 97002601.
Anne Burgess, PrincipalYou can access the latest issue the latest issue of James Cook Primary newsletter, on our website: jamescookps.vic.edu.au
James Cook Primary School
29-53 James Cook Drive
Endeavour Hills, 3802
Ph: 9700 2601
Email: james.cook.ps@education.vic.gov.au
We fully embrace our school motto, “Believe to Succeed,” as we believe that all children can, and will, achieve to their fullest potential.
• Celebrating cultural diversity and inclusiveness
• High expectations for excellence
• High quality teaching and learning
• Strength in home-school partnerships
• Welcoming and safe
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CHILDREN learn an amazing amount as their learning journey continues through primary school.
Primary school education continues in Years 1 to 6 where children receive a strong foundation in eight core subject areas:
■ English
■ Mathematics
■ Science
■ society and environment
■ technology and enterprise
■ languages
■ the arts
■ health and physical education.
Literacy and numeracy are important learning areas.Learningfocusesonensuringyourchildren understand mathematics, and learn to read and write competently. Many schools have specialist literacy and numeracy teachers to help your children develop these important skills.
Programs are designed to build natural curiosity and foster inquiring minds in the area of science and technology. In society and environment, they learn about the history and traditions at the heart of Australia’s democratic society.
Teachers plan for a balance of activities based on the learning needs of your children and other childrenintheirclass.Insomeinstancesspecialist teachers teach the class, for example in art, music and physical education.
The classroom layout is more formal than Preprimary with students sitting together in groups or rows. Your children spend more time working at their desk and in small groups. Set days and times are allocated to each subject area.
If your children are having difficulty with any of the learning, speak with their teacher.
Homework reinforces and supports the things your children learn at school. It is designed to get your children thinking and applying what they learn in different ways and encourages them to become independent learners.
During the first years of primary school homework involves fun activities such as:
■ reading with your children every day
■ encouraging your children to draw, write and tell stories
■ practising using numbers
■ encouraging your children to observe things in nature and to ask questions.
As your children progress through school, they receive specific tasks and projects designed to apply their knowledge in different ways - for example creative writing, oral presentations and assignments.
You can help your children by:
■ setting aside a set time each day for homework (also allow time for play and relaxation)
■ setting up a ‘homework space’ where your children can do their homework
■ setting up a schedule for big projects that take longer to complete so they are not left with one day to finish it
■ letting your children have a go at their homework first before helping them
■ asking your children to explain what they have done - explaining things in their own words is a great way to learn
■ checking your children’s homework when they are done for the day and working through any errors together
■ knowing where your children are up to with their homework so they do not fall behind.
If your children are having problems with their homework or with a specific subject or project, asktheirteachertospendsomeextratimehelping them through the task.
Talk with your children’s teacher about the school’s homework policy for more details.
Ref: http://www.education.vic.gov.au
Located two minutes from Westfield Knox Shopping Centre, Knox Central Primary School is a small school with a big heart that inspires curiosity and creativity in our students. We offer an engaging and caring learning environment for children from Foundation to Grade Six. Joining a school is a major milestone in your child’slife,andinyourfamily’stoo,and welookforwardtowarmlywelcoming youintoourschoolcommunity.
Our school offers a vibrant and challenging curriculum, with extremely high standards and a focus upon achieving the learning goals of each individual child. We ensure that allstudentsaresupported,challenged and encouraged to be their best, by designing and providing targeted, differentiated learning programs.
Knox Central Primary School students achieve exceptional academic results, and our focus as a school is on ‘learning growth’; which can be defined as a student achieving at
least 12 months of curriculum growth for each year of schooling. At Knox Central Primary School, we are fortunate to enjoy the benefits of a small school, which go far beyond the realmsofjustacademicachievement. Small schools present unique opportunities for social emotional growth, relationship building and high expectations both in and outoftheclassroom.
Arrange a personal tour of the school with our principal Lisa Burt, by calling our office on 9801 3289 or emailing her directly at lisa.burt@education.vic. gov.au.Youwillexperiencethewarm, nurturing feel of Knox Central and visit our spacious classrooms, STEM lab, gym, library and green screen studio, sensory garden and large play areas. We look forward to sharing our school withyou.
From our little learners in Prep through to tall Year Twelves, we are one College, working together to support the growth and development of each student.
Through all of nature, God shows us His plan is for us to grow, flourish, and develop. As in nature, different trees and flowers grow at different rates, and bloom in different seasons. Such a garden represents diversity and partnership. This analogy of garden represents our College learning community.
Beginning at Prep, teachers focus on building a strong sense of belonging, because when children belong, they flourish. Where belonging is nurtured, children flourish. Literacy and numeracy are much more than merely the focus; they are also the vehicle for learning about learning. And children who learn how to learn become life-long learners.
At Melton Christian College, our deep desire is to see each of our students nurtured and supported whilst they develop, grow and discover their unique God-given talents.
Twilight Tour (Brookfield Campus) - 28 March 2023
School in Action (Brookfield Campus) - 17 May 2023
School in Action (Brookfield Campus) - 9 August 2023
Twilight Tour (Brookfield Campus) - 15 August 2023
School in Action (Toolern Vale) - 23 August 2023
Twilight Tour (Toolern Vale Campus) - 29 August 2023
School in Action (Brookfield Campus) - 25 October 2023
School in Action (Toolern Vale Campus) - 1 November 2023
For more information, and to register, go to www.mcc.vic.edu.au
AT Mentone Park Primary School we ignite and fosterapassionforlearningthatbeginsfromyour cherished first day of school and extends well beyond the proud day our students venture into a world of possibility and wonder.
We value the relationship we have with every student and their family. Our staff are committed to personalised point of need teaching that both supports and extends every students capacity to be their very best whilst also allowing them to engage with a variety of new and exciting curriculum offerings. From high quality Literacy and Numeracy programs to STEAM, PE, Visual Arts and Auslan every student who attends Mentone Park will create memories with friends that will last a lifetime.
The principle goal of education should be creating men and women who are capable of doing new and exciting things, not simply repeating what other generations have done. Our
Our purpose at Mentone Park Primary School is to guide and support every student along their personal journey to their personal success.
purpose at Mentone Park Primary School is to guide and support every student along their personal journey to their personal success.
Mentone Park Primary School ……… Come and feel the difference
Please call 9583 4935 and organise your personal tour with our principal, Mr Cameron Agars, at a time that suits you and your family.
MILGATE Primary School is a warm and friendly school community, located in East Doncaster. Enjoying a rich multicultural community, Milgate’s school wide teaching philosophy is founded upon a commitment to empower studentstoensuretheywillsucceedasresponsible global citizens and independent self-learners within today’s rapidly changing world - socially, emotionally, physically and academically.
As an accredited International Baccalaureate School offering the Primary Years Program, we provide a dynamic, inclusive learning environment that challenges students to become inquirers, thinkers and caring young people who are able to interact in the global society with respect and intercultural understanding.
Social and emotional learning is embedded across the curriculum and through partnerships with the school, parents and wider community developing student self-awareness, empathy and relationshipskillsaswellasasenseofcommunity and belonging.
At Milgate Primary School we have an extensive Transition Program that prepares our Foundation students for school. In addition to numeracy and literacy, we run a discovery play-based program which involves choice, promotes agency and provides opportunities for students to inquire into important concepts and personal interests. We use the environment as the third teacher and through our different learning spaces students can investigate, problem solve, create and represent their learning in a variety of ways.
Situated within the peaceful and leafy Milgate Park Estate in East Doncaster, Milgate PS offers outstanding grounds and classrooms equipped with modern technology to support 21st century learners.
Our commitment to maintaining our facilities is evident when you enter our school grounds. We take great pride in our school as we feel it represents the hard work and commitment of our learning community.
Newplaygroundsandshadeareas,landscaping and garden spaces have been created to provide outstanding facilities for all our community members. Our expansive grounds feature a
gymnasium, synthetic soccer pitch, oval, outdoor courts and a vegetable and sensory garden.
Our Specialist programs provide rich learning experiences for all students at Milgate Primary School. The Visual Arts and Performing Arts programs allow students to express themselves creatively and celebrate their learning with the wider community through the Art Show and School Musical. Our Phys Ed and Outdoor Education program introduces students to fundamental motor skills, and progressively develops skills in camping, adventure activities and social interaction. The Mandarin Language program develops students’ language awareness and skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing Mandarin.
Enrolments at Milgate Primary School are open now for students starting Foundation next year. Please see our website for enrolment forms and procedures. Our virtual tour is also be available to view on our website. We welcome enquiries by email or telephone if you have any queries about enrolling your child at Milgate.
E: milgate.ps@eduation.vic.gov.au
P: 9842 7744
W: milgateps.vic.edu.au
CHOOSING a school for your child can be one of the most important decisions you will make. Subjects, activities, programs, and in particular, culture, vary from school to school. Some factors to consider include, co-education or single-sex, size, location, ethos, and education approach just to name a few.
Oakleigh Grammar empowers young minds and offers excellence in coeducational learning from ELC through to Year 12. We enjoy a diverse, inclusive and family-oriented culture that welcomes students and their families with open arms.Webelieveinnurturingstrongrelationships built on respect, trust and empathy and having fun along the way!
‘Empowering young minds’ is more than just a motto, it reflects our dedication to building resilient lifelong learners and responsible global citizens, by putting students at the centre of all we do.
We ensure each child is nurtured and cared for at a personal level (right down to a door-to-door bus service), by exceptional educators who are dedicated to their students and their profession. Founded in Christian values, Oakleigh Grammar boasts a multicultural environment where a zest for life is encouraged, good citizenship is celebrated and academic scholarship is our mainstay.
Recognising the link between positive teacher and student relationships and academic success, we work to ensure students are given the individualised learning and pastoral support they need to develop into happy and resilient global citizens.
■ Passionate educators
Our dedicated educators work collaboratively and embrace professional development, ensuring that our educational programs remain at the forefront of contemporary education. This enables them to ensure every child continually improves, and so do they.
■ Leading edge learning
Our child-centred approach to learning includes additional teaching support to ensure each child’s learning needs are met. Every student is encouraged to perform at their best, whether they are high performing, experience learning challenges, or fall somewhere in between.
Oakleigh Grammar Junior School
Our Junior School encompasses Early Learning (age 2 to 5) to Year 5. Our proprietary Quartet Model (developed by our award-winning Deputy Principal - Professional Culture and Junior School, Shelley Parkes) underpins learning from ELCtoYear5.TheQuartetofferstailoredlearning styles as students progress through the Junior years.
To learn more about Oakleigh Grammar, register for one of our monthly open days at oakleighgrammar.vic.edu.au/open-days/
Every student is encouraged to perform at their best, whether they are high performing, experience learning challenges, or fall somewhere in between.
As Principal of Solway Primary School, I am extremely proud of our wonderful school community. Solway is at the centre of a connected community, actively involved with the school and valued for the generosity of time, energy and expertise that its members bring to the school.
Solway’s motto exemplifies the school’s work ethic and is reflected through the entire school community. Our purpose is to challenge and stimulate all students to reach their full potential in a safe and supportive environment.
And they do - consistently achieving academic results above the state benchmarks in both English and Mathematics.
All student learning needs are met through a developmental approach to curriculum delivery and differentiated classroom teaching programs. Extension opportunitiesandadditionallearningsupportisprovided. Solway engages its students through an Inquiry approach to learning and offers a 1:1 (Bring Your Own Device) iPad program. At Solway, we are committed to the development of globally aware, civically minded life-long learners.To achieve this, we recognise the importance of educating the ‘whole child’, which includes a strong emphasis on wellbeing.
School tours for prospective parents commence in March, at 9:30am on select days. Appointments are necessary and can be made through the School Office. I encourage new families to visit the school and see for themselves the wonderful learning environment Solway has to offer. A transition program for new students awaits.
I look forward to meeting with you.
Lyn Rodda PRINCIPALSolway Primary School boasts modern, flexible learning spaces and outstanding facilities for students and staff. Our extensive and well-maintained grounds provide students with safe, fun and varied play spaces, including:
• A designated Prep area with large shaded sandpit and playground
• Plexi-paved netball and basketball courts
• Mini soccer field
• Wildlife corridor
• Kitchen Garden
Our students are encouraged and supported to explore their passions and extend their skills through specialist programs and enrichment activities.
• Performing Arts
• Physical Education
• Visual Arts
• Japanese
• Science
• Library
To support the school’s curriculum areas, some of the many programs offered include:
• Swimming Classes
• Tech Club & Robotics
• Lego Club
• Chess Club
• Art Extension Program
• Hoop Time (Basketball)
• Japanese Club
• Singing Club
• Instrumental Music Tuition
• Camps
• Student Leadership Program
• Japanese Homestay Program
Solway is incredibly proud to have achieved its 5-star sustainability accreditation and promotes the value of responsible energy use, water efficiency, waste management and environmental awareness through whole school programs and practices.
An accredited before and after school care program is conveniently located here at Solway Primary School, with extended hours to help you juggle work and home. www.teamkids.com.au
We look forward to welcoming you to our vibrant school community.
To book a tour, phone 03 9813 9700 or email solway.ps@education.vic.gov.au
For more information, please visit www.solwayps.vic.edu.au
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Timbarra P-9 College creates a sense of belonging and achievement by actively promoting optimism, creativity, curiosity and responsibility. Our College values the home/school partnership, promoting a culture of lifelong learning. We offer education to help develop the whole child. While there are many reasons to enrol your child at Timbarra P-9 College, the feedback we receive through our Parent and Student Opinion Survey and through our parent bodies endorses the opportunities our school provides for their children to develop practical skills and knowledge in all areas of the curriculum. Each child is encouraged to actively investigate the world around them. In the junior part of our College, students are given weekly opportunities to engage in extra-curricular activities in their Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Physical Education and STEAM lessons.
Our Wellbeing program is an essential part of our teaching and learning design, where students are given opportunity to explicitly demonstrate pro-social values such as kindness, tolerance, co-operation, persistence and respect. We guide students in identifying their own learning styles and to use their own voice and agency to cultivate a strong sense of self. We are proud that our students are confident, adaptable, sensitive and resilient. An excellent education is the best gift we can give your child.
Wesley College is a leading coeducational, open-entry school. Established 157 years ago, the College has enriched the lives of thousands of students throughout its history. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, Wesley students benefit from a continuum of learning and a coherence to their education from early learning through to Year 12.
• ElsternwickCampus: Three-year-olds to Year 9
• GlenWaverleyCampus: Three-year-olds to Year 12
• StKildaRoadCampus: Three-year-olds to Year 12
At the heart of Wesley’s approach is our commitment to developing well-rounded individuals who aspire to achieve their personal best in all areas of learning. Students from early years to Year 6 learn within the framework of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB PYP). Specialist primary year teachers provide learning tailored to students’ interests, needs and abilities.
Our Early Childhood Learning Centres (ECLC) provide an exceptional standard of care for children aged three and four years old. Our three metropolitan Melbourne campuses have achieved the highest ACECQA rating of ‘Exceeding’ for their ECLCs.
Specialist programs include:
• Chineselanguage
• VisualArts
• Dance
• Drama
• Music • PhysicalEducation
At Wesley College, we encourage behaviours that positively influence the learning and wellbeing of self and others to promote a safe, inclusive, supportive and cohesive learning community.
Wesley’s approach to learning and wellbeing is captured in the acronym ROAR (Respect, Opportunity, Achievement and Resilience). These four character-based tenets are embedded at the heart of everything we do. Our approach recognises that learning and wellbeing work in unison to support confident, capable students.
Visit wesleycollege.edu.au/tours to book a tour
Wesley College Junior Schools offer student-centred learning through the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program, bespoke wellbeing programs and foster the skills and attitudes children need to become lifelong learners.
There are limited places available in our Junior Schools, so we encourage you to apply early. All children who attend our Early Childhood Learning Centres are guaranteed a place in Prep.
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• Fairness
• Excellence
are:
• Kindness
• Creativity
At Westall Primary School we believe all students have the right to equal access to a high quality education and that all students can achieve their potential through building strong partnerships between parents and teachers.
The school promotes educational activities and initiatives that help to create a learning environment that is engaging for students and integrates with the social and creative life of the community.
We place a high priority on developing our authentic, meaningful curriculum that includes;
• Personalised learning involving student collaboration.
• Explicit teaching, time for practise, real life experiences and Inquiry learning.
• The Sounds-Write program which is one of the best, if not the best, literacy program a school can choose and has been tried and tested in many English speaking countries across the world including many states of Australia.
Principal: Mr Peter Jeans | Ph: 9546 8964
XAVIER College has recently restructured its Early and Middle years experiences in a comprehensive realignment and recrafting of its overall College program.
Extending upon its co-educational Kindergarten for 3- and 4-year-olds, Xavier is moving to a 2-year staged model of educational delivery from Prep to Year 12. This will coincide with a comprehensive building program to enhance every aspect of each campus.
Our Junior School (P-6) program will be set at the magnificent Burke Hall Campus. It will operate from 2024, maintaining an aligned and progressive curriculum journey for Prep to Year 2 (Stage 1 housed in its contemporary St Louis Building), through Years 3 and 4 (Stage 2) and into Years 5-6 (Stage 3) that also acts as a significant point of entry for many students and families. Our other key entry point of Year 7 will be accommodated in an exceptional, new state-ofthe-art Year 7-8 learning precinct on the Senior Campus, opening for the start of 2024.
As a school that enrols boys, Xavier is committed from the commencement of a boy’s education to developing respectful and aspirant learners. Our distinctive Jesuit character underscores these learning and life values, whereby our future graduates are formed with an intentional mindset to be authentic, spiritual, positive, inspiring, resilient and empathetic. These ASPIRE qualities are infused through each age and stage, where our educators deliver a holistic curriculum designed to encourage students to be curious, ask questions, make discoveries, collaborate, reflect and think independently.
Head of Early Years at Xavier College, Ms Elena Serraglio strongly believes “that a child who is fully engaged in learning, more commonly demonstrates positive behaviours. We strive to providealearningenvironmentinwhichstudents feel happy, productive, and secure. The partnership between staff, parents, and the child encourages each individual to grow intellectually, spiritually, morally, socially, emotionally, physically and creatively”
There is a strong emphasis on action and preparing our students for a life of service, instilling in them a genuine commitment to serve others.
Opportunities are not limited to the traditional classroom setting. Primary students are engaged with our Expeditions program from an early stage, teaching them to engage the head, heart, and hands in meaningful ways and to transport classroom learning to the real world. Students from Kindergarten to Year 2 will enjoy daily experiences outside the classroom in purpose built outdoor play and learning spaces. Year 3 & 4 students will take part in weekly experiences in the Yarra Bend National Park. Year 5 and 6 students move beyond the campus to experience life in regional Victoria where they deepen their understandingsfromtheclassroombyconnecting authentically to the natural world.
At Xavier, we understand the crucial importance of a rich Primary education in laying the foundation for the future of your child. We strive to ensure the Early Years experience is a joyous one for every child. From skills, passions and work ethic to self-image and finding their place in the community, the journey begins here.
We aim to develop students who will become men of conscience, competence, and compassion, able to bring about a more peaceful and just society by example and deeds.
2024 FOUNDATION INFORMATION NIGHT
Monday May 15th 7.00pm
OPEN DAY - All Day
Thursday May 18th
SCHOOL TOURS 9.15am, 11.15am & 2pm
• Comprehensive academic programs
• Specialist programs run all year
• Expansive natural grounds
• Friendly community culture
• Whole child development - academic, cultural, emotional, physical and social
Come and visit Boroondara Park and find out why it is the school for your child. School tours available each week, call +61 39857 5157 and book a time to visit.
40 Almond St, Balwyn North VIC 3104, Australia
www.bpark.vic.edu.au
boroondara.park.ps@education.vic.gov.au