Newsletter - Term 1 - Week 1 - 29 January 2025

2024 Principal Report

On December 19^th I sent out the first Principal Report via Compass as part of the Community Engagement Sub-Committee initiative. If you haven’t already, I strongly encourage you to read through this report, which is available via Compass as well as through our school website as it gives you an insight into our 2024 results and the strategic direction of the school.

https://ivanhoeeastps.vic.edu.au/newsletter/article/2392

A Look Ahead

The outcomes outlined in this report underscore the success of IEPS in fostering academic excellence, wellbeing, and community engagement. As we look forward to 2025, the Prinicpal report will evolve to provide more frequent, focused updates through a quarterly report. Each will delve deeper into specific strategic priorities, allowing us to track progress and celebrate achievements in real-time.

We are also planning to introduce quarterly or bi-annual Principal Forums to facilitate open dialogue, fostering a strong partnership between school and community. Alongside these initiatives, our regular school bulletin will continue to share timely updates, events, and student celebrations.

Term 1 Update – Ben Phillips Acting Principal

Over the break, I was asked by the Department of Education to temporarily fill the role of Acting Senior Education Improvement Leader for the Monash Network. This secondment is expected to last for Term 1, with my return to Ivanhoe East Primary School planned for the start of the school holidays. My indicative start date is Monday, 3 February.

Today, I have been prioritising a thorough handover to Ben Phillips, who will step into the role of Acting Principal for Term 1. Over the next couple of days, we will continue working to ensure this transition is as seamless as possible. Ben will be closely supported by Amanda Dwyer, and our well-established organisational model means that key areas of the school will remain under the leadership of Alex Silvestro and Joanna King. This structure ensures there will be no disruption to classroom teaching.

I will remain in regular contact with Ben and the leadership team as required to provide support and ensure that the school’s strategic direction remains on track as part of the Annual Implementation Plan for 2025. Rest assured, our focus on delivering high-quality learning experiences for our students will continue uninterrupted throughout Term 1.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Ben, Amanda, or myself.

Parent Payment Contributions

Parent Contributions 2025: Supporting Quality Learning for All Students

At IEPS, we are committed to providing the highest quality teaching and learning experience for every student. Parent Contributions play an integral role in ensuring we can continue to offer high-quality educational materials, engaging learning experiences, and essential wellbeing resources that support all students. Your contributions directly support our ability to enhance classroom programs, provide specialist resources, and create an enriching school environment.

All-Inclusive Stationery Pack

To make things easier for families, all essential and required stationery items will be included in the Stationery and Starter Bag provided by the school. This means there is no need for back-to-school shopping—everything your child needs for the year will be prepared and ready to go, except for a pencil case which we ask you to bring. The Stationery and Starter Bag is listed as a line item in the Parent Contributions documentation sent via Compass. These packs ensure consistency across classrooms, support student learning, and contribute to a well-resourced and engaging educational environment.

Opting to Provide Your Own Stationery
If you would prefer to purchase your own stationery, please contact the school directly, and we will provide you with a stationery list specific to your child’s year level. We are happy to support families who choose this option, ensuring that students have everything they need for a smooth start to the school year.

Financial Help for Families

We understand that some families may require financial assistance, and we are committed to ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality education, regardless of financial circumstances. To support families:
✅ We apply the Financial Help for Families policy to our parent payment arrangements.
✅ We have designated a parent payment contact person to provide guidance and assistance for those seeking support.
✅ We ensure that no student is refused instruction in the curriculum due to financial constraints. Therefore if you are unable or elect not to make a contribution, your child’s learning will not be negatively impacted and they will have access to necessary materials to participate in their learning; however, please note that these will be substituted and alternative resources, not the school-purchased book packs.

If your family requires assistance or has any concerns about Parent Contributions, please reach out to our parent payment contact person Litsa Kirk Litsa.kirk@education.vic.gov.au for a confidential discussion

By making a Parent Contribution, you are directly investing in the quality of education at IEPS and ensuring that our students continue to have access to the best possible resources, programs, and support. Thank you for your ongoing partnership in providing an exceptional learning experience for all students.

PTFA

Our first meeting for PTFA is on Friday 7^th of February at 9.00 am. Our PTFA leads our fundraising and social events to promote opportunities for all members of community to engage with the wider community. If you are interested in being a member of our PTFA please contact Joanna King via email Joanna.king@education.vic.gov.au .

Supporting Your Child Through the First Few Days of School

The first few days of school or day care can be an emotional milestone for both children and parents. While some children adapt quickly, others may need extra support to navigate this new chapter. It’s normal for children to feel some anxiety during transitions, but with thoughtful preparation and collaboration, we can help them adjust with confidence.

Familiarity is key to easing first-day nerves. Visiting the school or day care ahead of time, meeting teachers, or even playing on the grounds can make the environment feel less intimidating. Social connections are equally important—attending local playgroups or arranging playdates with future classmates can help your child feel more comfortable. At home, practising routines like opening lunchboxes or reading books about starting school, such as Maddie’s First Day, can build confidence.

Creating predictable drop-off routines can also provide reassurance. A consistent sequence such as saying goodbye at the school gate or putting away their bag together and then saying goodbye can help children feel secure. Avoid sneaking away, as this can undermine trust. Instead, communicate clearly and maintain a consistent routine to reduce uncertainty.

Our staff at IEPS are available to support these early transitions, they will foster a safe place and welcoming environment, engaging with each child's strengths and encouraging positive engagement from the start of the day. Parents can support this by celebrating achievements and discussing daily activities, helping children see school as “their place.” Comfort items, like a favourite toy or photo, can also ease separation and IEPS will support this.

Transitions take time, and it’s normal for children to have ups and downs. Open communication between parents and their child's classroom teacher is key in revisiting strategies and providing tailored support. While the first days may feel challenging, they mark the beginning of exciting opportunities and relationships. Together, we can make this new chapter a positive and joyful experience for our children.

IEPS Swim Trials - Friday, 14 February

We are excited to announce that the IEPS Swim Trials will be held on Friday, 14 February, at the Richmond Recreation Centre from 12-2:30pm. This is an opt-in event for students in Years 3 to 6 who would like to try out for the District Swimming Team.Key Details:

• The trials are open to students who are confident in swimming 50m in at least one of the following strokes:
• Freestyle
• Backstroke
• Butterfly
• Breaststroke
• Interested students can nominate themselves for participation.
• Parents of nominated students will receive a note with further details by early Week 2.
• If you have not received a note by Wednesday Feb 5th and hence think your child is interested but may have missed the opportunity to nominate themselves please email justin.bartlett@education.vic.gov.au. No additional nominations will be accepted post Friday Feb 7th.

Thank you and we look forward to seeing those attending give their best on Friday Feb 14th.