The new school year brings with it both joy and challenges. There is the challenge of a new class, new routines and new teachers to get used to, and also the joy of your child learning new things, making new friends and growing in their independence. “Every good and perfect gift comes from above” (James 1:17).
I recently walked through our Primary school, and I can truly tell you how settled and beautiful it is. Children are on task, learning, happy and finding their place in God’s world. The role models they have in our Christian teachers is something to cherish and treasure. How blessed we are to be fully staffed in a climate that warns Victoria will be up to 5000 teachers short by 2028.
We also recognise that teacher burnout is a serious concern. Our dedicated educators often work long hours beyond the school day out of a genuine love for your children and a desire to impart the love of God in every lesson.
We truly appreciate your partnership and understand that sometimes questions or concerns arise after hours. With the advent of smartphones and constant connectivity, the line between work and personal time has become blurred, and you may have heard of the 'right to disconnect.' The right to disconnect allows employees to maintain a healthy balance and be allowed proper downtime so they return to work more refreshed and can be more productive.
We kindly request that non-urgent communications be directed during school hours and, when possible, that you consider meeting with a teacher in person. An in-person meeting allows us to exchange questions, seek clarifications and clear up any misunderstandings with the gentle, compassionate dialogue that reflects Proverbs 15:1: "A gentle answer turns away wrath." Such face-to-face conversations build trust, fellowship and a stronger partnership in nurturing your child’s growth.
Your homeroom teacher is your first point of contact, and we are confident that about 90% of concerns can be quickly resolved through thoughtful, prayerful discussion. For behaviour matters, please reach out to your Head of Learning Module (HoLM), and for curriculum-related questions, our Coordinators and Learning Enhancement staff are available to help.
Our dedicated team includes:
- 3 & 4-year-old Kinder: Kemi Aibinu
- HoLM Prep to Year 2: Cathy Ryan
- HoLM Years 3 & 4: Nikki Sega
- HoLM Years 5 & 6: Joe Haworth
- Curriculum K-6: Pearl Tipping
- Learning Enhancement: Sue Tuffin (3-6) interim, Deb Lugg (P-2) interim
Should a concern remain unresolved, it will be respectfully escalated to our Primary Deputy Principal, Daniel Lee, and if necessary, to myself, Primary Principal Yvonne Harvey. On rare occasions, Executive Principal Ross Grace may also be involved.
We understand that in times of stress, emotions can run high. Linked is our Parent Code of Conduct—a reminder that we are all united in Christ, working together for the ultimate good of your child.
Thank you for your prayers, your understanding and your continued partnership as we serve our community and nurture our children in God’s grace.