Principal’s Report

“What A Knight!” - Grade 6 Production

This is an exciting week as the work of the Grade 6 students, Mr. MacEoin, Mrs. Eva and the Grade 6 Team of staff, culminates in the Grade 6 Production – this year the students are performing “What A Knight!”, which looks to be lots of fun.

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) Fundraiser – Wear Blue Day on Friday 23rd October

Next Friday 23^rd October will be a gold coin donation/free dress day, with the proceeds going to The EB Foundation. Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is the name for a group of rare inherited skin disorders that cause the skin to become very fragile. Please come to school in free dress on this day with a “touch of blue” (or wear full blue!) to show your support. One of our students experiences this condition and her family supports us to conduct this fundraising for this day, which goes to the wider cause to find treatments and cures. A “Walk for Wings” event is held in October each year for this cause, and our funds raised will go towards it also. For more information on the condition, please follow this link:

https://www.debra.org.au/walk-for-wings/

Enrolments and Exits 2027

We are coming into an important time of year regarding planning for 2027. If you are aware of any families who are looking at enquiring to enrol at EPS and have not submitted enrolment forms for next year, please encourage them to contact the school ASAP. Also, if you are exiting the school at the end of this year, please let us know as soon as possible so we can include this in our planning.

Planning Classes for 2027

As we start Term 4, teachers begin the process of creating classes for 2027 to establish the best learning environment for them again with their peers. There are several factors that are considered in finding the best balance for each grade such as:

Achievement levels
Behavioural challenges
Interpersonal relationships between students
Teacher recommendations

Achieving even a semi-equal distribution of these factors simultaneously is no small feat! Our priority is creating a high performing and positive classroom environment ensuring a stimulating space for students to achieve their best.

As a result, requests for classes based on interpersonal relationships between students, in writing, will be accepted until Friday 30^th October (emerald.ps@education.vic.gov.au).

Please note – all grade teachers will go through a process in coming weeks whereby they ask students in their classes to give them a short list of which students they would like to be with in 2027 because they learn well with them, and/or they are students who make them feel happy and safe in the classroom, which is a separate process to any parent/carer requests submitted by email.

Requests for individual teachers will not be accepted and the final decision on all student placements rests with myself and the teaching team, after due consideration of all related factors. I thank you for your cooperation and understanding in supporting what is best for all of our students at EPS and look forward to a positive and exciting start to 2027 – which will come around quicker than we know it.

Absences and Compass

If your student is absent from school, we request that parents/carers please complete absence notes for the time they are away.

This can be done on Compass by selecting ‘Add Attendance Note’ and filling in the details, and can be done prior to, on the day of, or after the absence has occurred.

If your student has been absent and a reason has not been recorded there will be a notification on your Compass homepage.

We appreciate your co-operation in ensuring our attendance records are up-to-date and complete. The Department of Education requires us to follow these up regularly.

If you do not have access to Compass, please or call/drop in for assistance setting up your Compass log in.

Being SunSmart for Term 4

A reminder to all students to please wear their hat from the start of this term outside in order to ensure protection against the sun for Term 4. Hats can be purchased from the Uniform Shop for $16. Students without hats to wear at break times will be directed to play in the undercover area.

Changes to the Way We Use Class Dojo

As we continue to look at the best ways to communicate with our school community, we will be making some changes to how we use Class Dojo from Term 4. Class Dojo will continue to be used for whole-school and grade cohort posts, including sharing important information, reminders and celebrations with families. However, the direct messaging function between individual parents/carers and staff members will no longer be used for communication.

If you have a question, concern or matter you would like to discuss with your child’s teacher, we encourage you to touch base with them briefly before or after school, where appropriate, or contact the school to arrange a meeting time. You can also email the school emerald.ps@education.vic.gov.au and your message will be directed to the appropriate staff member. For anything urgent that needs to be addressed on the day, please contact the school office by phone so that we can ensure the message is received promptly.

We appreciate that families are busy and that communication between home and school is an important part of supporting our students. These changes will help us ensure that communication is managed consistently, that staff have appropriate time to focus on teaching and learning during the school day, and that parents and carers have the opportunity to discuss concerns directly and constructively.

Important Health Information for EPS

Please see attached some very important information in regards to protecting the health of a student at Emerald Primary School. Your support and co-operation is very much appreciated.

Important Letter from Monash Childrens Hospital 2026

EPS Student Free/Curriculum Days 2026

Please be advised of the following student free days, when our staff will be completing professional learning activities or parent teacher interviews:

Friday 4^th December – Assessment & Reporting Day

For those families using the TheirCare childcare service, they are preparing to have students on the 4^th December dates: https://theircare.com.au/

Exciting Events & Must-Know Dates!

Term 4:
October Events:
- Wednesday 14th October – Grade 6 Production Matinee @1pm
- Thursday 15th October – Grade 6 Production Evening Show @6.30pm
- Thursday 15th October – Divisional Basketball (selected students)
- Friday 16th October – Grade 6 Production Evening Show @6.30pm
- Monday 19th October – Prep 2027 Transition – Session 1 (PMP)
- Tuesday 20th October – Divisional Volleyball (selected students)
- Thursday 22nd October – Regional Athletics (selected students)
- Thursday 22nd October – Prep 2027 Transition – Session 1 (PMP)
- Thursday 22nd October – School Council @ 7.15pm
- Friday 23rd October – Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) Fundraiser – Wear Blue Day (Gold Coin Donation)
- Friday 23rd October – Assembly
- Sunday 25th October – Human Powered Vehicles (H.P.V) Event @ Lang Lang (selected Grade 6 students)
- Monday 26th October – Prep 2027 Transition – Session 2 (Art)
- Tuesday 27th October – Rotary Speech Night (Grade 5)
- Thursday 29th October – Prep 2027 Transition – Session 2 (Art)
- Friday 30th October – World Teachers Day
November Events:
- Tuesday 3rd November – Melbourne Cup Public Holiday
- Friday 6th November – Assembly
- Monday 9th November – Prep 2027 Transition – Session 3 (Music)
- Thursday 12th November – Grade 1 excursion to Ricket’s Point
- Thursday 12th November – Prep 2027 Transition – Session 3 (Music)
- Friday 13th November – Grade 2 excursion to Ricket’s Point
- Sunday 15th November – School Fair @ 10.00am – 3.00pm
- Monday 16th November – EDEC Indoor Soccer (Grade 5 students)
- Friday 20th November – Assembly
- Wednesday 25th – Friday 27th November – Grade 4 Camp @ Sovereign Hill
- Thursday 26th November – School Council Meeting @ 7.15pm

Emma Clark

Principal

This Week…

Growth Mindset Awards!

Prep G

Sofia D

Sofia, starting school is a massive adventure, and you have faced it with incredible persistence. Even when saying goodbye at morning drop-offs felt difficult, you showed true strength and a wonderful growth mindset by walking into the classroom and turning every day into a success. You are putting so much effort into learning, proving that you aren’t afraid to practise when tackling tricky things. Sofia, you have shown us that challenges are just opportunities to learn, and I am so proud of the hard worker, dedicated student, and amazing learner you are becoming! Keep showing the everyone your growth mindset.

Prep H

Jadon T

Jadon is a dedicated student who consistently applies himself to all aspects of learning. He always embraces challenges, believing that with effort and practice, he can improve his skills. When Jadon makes a mistake, he sees it as a chance to learn and grow, never giving up on his goals. Jadon takes the initiative to ask questions and seeks help when needed, always eager to expand his knowledge. He has grown in confidence throughout the year and is becoming increasingly willing to step outside his comfort zone and have a go at new things. Jadon’s positive attitude and belief in himself have helped him approach challenges with confidence and a strong growth mindset. He is also a wonderful role model to his classmates, genuinely celebrating their successes and being happy to see others achieve. Jadon approaches every lesson with infectious enthusiasm and determination, and we are so proud of the growth he has demonstrated this year. Congratulations to Jadon Thomas, the recipient of the Prep H Growth Mindset Award!

Prep P

Freja R

Freja has demonstrated a fantastic growth mindset throughout this semester. She is always willing to give things a go, even when she isn’t sure of the outcome. When faced with a challenge, Freja shows great resilience and does not give up easily. She actively listens to feedback, tries again, and takes immense pride in seeing her hard work pay off. It has been wonderful to watch her confidence grow as she embraces the idea that mistakes are simply a natural part of the learning process. Freja works capably and independently, using her strong problem-solving skills whenever she is unsure. Her positive attitude, determination, and persistence set a wonderful example for her peers. We are incredibly proud of how she continues to challenge herself, learn from mistakes, and believe in her own potential. Congratulations, Freja, on being the Prep P Growth Mindset Award recipient for 2026!

1P

Nate M

Nate, you have consistently demonstrated a fantastic growth mindset in our classroom. Your resilience has grown so much throughout the year, and you now approach every learning challenge with a willingness to improve. It has been wonderful to see how open you are to feedback, always taking it on board to correct mistakes and strengthen your understanding. Even when you need a gentle reminder, such as putting on your glasses, you respond positively and take responsibility for supporting your own learning. As your resilience has grown, so has your confidence, and it has been fantastic to see you sharing your ideas more often during our class discussions.

1R

Zion V

Zion’s growth mindset can be seen each day in the way he listens to content and instruction and interacting appropriately when he has questions. He then gives each task his best shot, ready for feedback. When it is given, Zion applies it as best as he can, making the suggested improvements his own. Not only do teachers love this attitude, it is also the foundation for lifelong learning. Well done, Zion!

1W

Kenzie S

Kenzie consistently demonstrates an outstanding growth mindset. She puts great effort into everything she does, striving to be the best she can be. Always an attentive listener, Kenzie absorbs the feedback she is given and makes a genuine effort to apply it to her learning. She regularly practises her reading, writing and maths skills to continue improving. She is not afraid to make mistakes and shows wonderful resilience by recognising them, learning from them and having another go. Kenzie brightens our classroom with her huge smile and constantly happy demeanour. Her determination and positive attitude towards learning are truly inspiring!

2C

Lucas K

2C’s Growth mindset recipient is an outstanding member of our class and has consistently displayed his ability to learn and grow, persisting when the going gets tough. Lucas, it has been a delight to see you strive to develop your many skills and talents this year. With your wonderful growth mindset, I know you will continue to achieve great things and reach the goals you set for yourself.

2GA

Molly G

Your calm determination and strong growth mindset are such wonderful qualities. You never let a challenging task overwhelm you; you simply sit quietly, chip away, and keep going until you succeed. You accept feedback positively and your work is always beautifully presented, with the most glorious handwriting!
Your greatest attribute is your kindness. You are always ready to help your peers and teachers, quietly stepping in without ever seeking praise or recognition. We want you to know that we see you, and all the wonderful things you do to make our classroom such a happy place to be. Congratulations Molly!

2H

Justice G

This term’s Growth Mindset Award goes to a student who shows wonderful determination in her learning. She is not afraid to have a go at something new and even when she finds something tricky, she keeps going and gives it another try. I have been especially proud of the effort and persistence she has shown with her Maths Masters skills, where she kept practising and working through the challenges until she successfully achieved her Yellow Belt. This is a wonderful example of how her determination and never give up attitude can help her achieve her goals. She understands that mistakes are part of learning and uses feedback to help her get better. She is developing the confidence to challenge herself and is proud of the progress she makes along the way. It has been lovely to see your confidence and perseverance grow this term. Congratulations Justice!

3CA

Phoebe M

For being a dedicated and hardworking member of our class and for demonstrating such a wonderful growth mindset. Phoebe is beginning to initiate without fear, showing a willingness to jump into the learning pit and give things a go. She demonstrates a genuine dedication to her learning, asking thoughtful questions to expand her thinking and clarify her understanding. Phoebe actively listens to feedback and is always willing to up-level her work. She maintains a positive mindset and approaches challenges with enthusiasm and determination. Phoebe is a respected member of our classroom and shows kindness to her peers and teachers. Keep up the great work Phoebe and you will continue to blossom, well done!

3K

Aleni S

Leni has truly demonstrated an incredible growth mindset throughout the year. She consistently approaches her learning with a positive attitude and is always willing to jump into the learning pit, even when faced with challenges. Leni’s resilience and determination when things don’t go as planned are truly inspiring. She embraces mistakes as opportunities to learn and never gives up, always showing a willingness to keep trying and improve. Congratulations, Leni, on demonstrating such an outstanding growth mindset and inspiring those around you to always try their best! Keep up the fantastic work!

3/4DW

Oliver B

Presented to Oliver for consistently demonstrating an outstanding growth mindset. You approach challenges with a positive attitude and a willingness to have a go, never needing recognition for your achievements. You encourage those around you to take risks, try their best and believe in their own abilities. Your hard work, persistence and positive attitude have contributed to exceptional academic outcomes, particularly in Mathematics. You should be incredibly proud of the learner you are becoming!

4N

Harrison L

We are all so proud of the way you have approached every new challenge and change at school this year. You never shy away from something that feels difficult — instead, you give it your best, learn from your mistakes and keep going so that you are growing your potential. I love hearing your insightful ideas and watching you confidently share your thinking with others. You are always open to feedback and use it to make yourself a better learner. Your resilience, determination and positive attitude are a wonderful example of what it means to have a growth mindset. Keep challenging yourself and believing in what you can achieve! Congratulations Harrison!

4SB

Harry H

For consistently demonstrating a wonderful growth mindset in our classroom. Even when feeling unsure or nervous, he faces challenges with courage and always gives his best effort. Harry approaches new learning with confidence, perseveres when things become difficult and never gives up on himself. His resilience, positive attitude and willingness to step outside his comfort zone inspires those around him, making Harry a fantastic role model for his classmates. Harry, you are a growth mindset SUPER STAR!

5D

Charlotte Z

Charlotte always approaches her learning with a smile on her face and a growing belief that she can overcome any challenge. She seeks help when she needs it and feedback to find ways to improve. She is a positive influence on those around her, demonstrating that the ‘Learning Pit’ can be hard but success takes effort and persistence and is worth the struggle. You can be extremely proud of your ‘Growth Mindset’ Charlotte. The way you strive for excellence in everything you do is incredible and shows you are capable of anything you can dream of.

5F

Kandice S

Kandice is a highly deserving recipient of this award as she is a motivated student who consistently approaches her learning with a positive and determined mindset. She welcomes challenges and sees them as opportunities to grow and improve. Throughout the year, Kandice has developed greater resilience when faced with difficult tasks, showing persistence and asking thoughtful questions when she finds herself in the learning pit. She responds positively to feedback and uses it effectively to strengthen her skills and understanding. This strength has been evident in our maths topic of Tiny Towns this term. Kandice, you should be incredibly proud of the confidence, perseverance and maturity you have developed as a learner. Well done on your determination, positive attitude and commitment to becoming the best learner you can be.

5SA

Gianmarco T

For consistently demonstrating an outstanding growth mindset in all areas of your learning. You are always looking for ways to improve, asking thoughtful questions and using feedback to make your work even better. You approach challenges with determination, never giving up when learning becomes difficult. You are a wonderful role model for our school value of Resilience by showing that being in the Learning Pit is how you make the most out of school. Keep it up, Gianmarco!

6AB

Savannah C

Savannah has entered Semester 2 with determination, resilience and a strong commitment to doing her best in all areas of her learning and personal development. She has embraced teacher feedback and worked hard to put it into practice, strengthening her skills and knowledge, particularly in Maths. As she faces new challenges and exciting changes in Term 4 and beyond, Savannah has shown great maturity by learning not to sweat the small stuff and instead look ahead with courage, positivity and excitement. We are incredibly proud of the growth she has shown, both as a learner and as a person, and we cannot wait to watch her shine in her big role in our Grade 6 production very soon. Savannah is a very worthy recipient of the Growth Mindset Award. Congratulations, Savannah!

6P

Sophie K

Sophie is a wonderful example of what it means to have a growth mindset. Throughout the year, she has consistently challenged herself and shown great determination to improve her skills, particularly in Mathematics and Reading. Her dedication, persistence and willingness to embrace challenges have led to fantastic growth, and her efforts are truly paying off. Sophie has also demonstrated outstanding commitment by attending tutor sessions and giving her very best at every opportunity. She is a quiet achiever who doesn’t seek the spotlight, but her resilience, determination and positive attitude have certainly not gone unnoticed. You are a wonderful role model for others at E.P.S. Congratulations, Sophie.

PE Junior

Archie Z 1W

This term, Archie has approached Physical Education with a fantastic attitude. He has worked hard to listen carefully and follow instructions, and he always tries his best in all activities. Archie has demonstrated excellent skills and should be very proud of his accomplishments. Congratulations, Archie!

PE Senior

Shayla W 3C

Shayla is a fantastic member of our class who is kind and inclusive of everyone. She is a hard worker who applies herself well to every task in Physical Education lessons. Shayla enjoys challenging herself to improve her skills and consistently demonstrates determination to achieve her personal best. Outstanding effort, Shayla! Well done!

Visual Arts Junior

Steele T Prep P

Steele is a pleasure to have in the art room. He has shown amazing creativity and determination in his visual art journey. He always keeps trying, embraces learning new ways to make his art even better and ensuring he works hard to complete his work. His positive attitude and hard work have helped him grow as an artist. This growth mindset award is a celebration of his courage to keep going, no matter the challenge. Keep up the great work Steele!

Visual Arts Senior

Riva M 4SB

Riva has demonstrated incredible growth and resilience in her journey in art. She is open to learning new techniques, embraces feedback, and pushing the boundaries of her creativity, she has exemplified a growth mindset. Her passion for continuous improvement and her ability to turn mistakes into masterpieces have set her apart. This award recognises her commitment to evolving as an artist and her inspiring perseverance. Congratulations Riva!

Performing Arts Junior

Jasper U 2C

For demonstrating a wonderful improvement in your ability to focus and concentrate in class. Your growing ability to stay engaged and make the most of your learning has allowed you to achieve so much more and get even more out of every lesson. It has been fantastic to see your confidence and achievements grow — something you should be very proud of!

Performing Arts Senior

Quinton F 5F

For demonstrating an outstanding level of commitment and determination throughout your project. You poured an enormous amount of time, energy and creativity into your work, and your dedication truly paid off. The finished project exceeded all expectations and was a wonderful example of what can happen when you find something you really care about and give it your very best.

Japanese Junior

Wyatt M 1P

Wyatt is receiving the Japanese Learning Award for showing a positive attitude towards his Japanese learning this year. He participates enthusiastically in lessons, is always willing to have a go and confidently asks questions when he wants to learn more. Wyatt has shown a fantastic growth mindset throughout the year, embracing challenges and being willing to try new activities, even when they are difficult. It has been wonderful to see Wyatt’s confidence and skills develop as he continues to challenge himself and take an active role in his Japanese learning. His enthusiasm, curiosity and willingness to have a go make him a wonderful role model for others.
Subarashii! (Wonderful work), Wyatt!

Japanese Senior

Daisy W 3/4D

Daisy is receiving the Japanese Learning Award for demonstrating an excellent growth mindset throughout her Japanese learning this year. She has approached new challenges with a positive attitude, is willing to have a go and perseveres when learning becomes challenging. Daisy has shown increased confidence in her Japanese and takes pride in improving her skills. She readily volunteers to participate in role plays, enjoys trying new activities and is always willing to step outside her comfort zone. Daisy is also a supportive classmate who is happy to help others with their Japanese learning. She has even begun using Japanese outside the classroom, showing that she is becoming more confident in applying her learning in everyday situations. Her determination, enthusiasm and willingness to keep learning make her a wonderful role model for others. Yokudekimashita (great work), Daisy!

STEM Junior

Ethan S 1W

Ethan is a ‘quiet achiever’ with an admirable growth mindset. He always listens attentively and happily contributes to STEM class discussions. Ethan demonstrates a keen desire to learn and he always tries hard. His willingness to confront challenges and consistently give it his best shot is evident in all class activities. Ethan keep up the positive attitude to learning and keep believing in yourself! You have a wonderful growth mindset, and you are an asset to our STEM class. Congratulations on being ‘The Junior STEM Growth Mindset Recipient’ for Term 3 2026.

STEM Senior

Brinley P 5D

Awarded to Brinley for consistently embracing challenges, learning from setbacks and striving to improve his understanding in all areas of STEM. Brinley approaches STEM with confidence and consistently shows great respect for the subject and his classmates. He participates thoughtfully in class discussions, approaches group experiments with enthusiasm and works cooperatively to explore new ideas. His contributions are often quiet and considered, but reflect thoughtful thinking, curiosity and a willingness to engage deeply with his learning. His respectful nature and positive, growth-mindset attitude make him a valued member of the STEM classroom. Well done, Brinley!