Principal’s Report
What a wonderful few weeks it has been at Emerald Primary School! Our Grandparents’ and Special Friends’ Day was an absolute highlight, with so many smiling faces filling the classrooms and grounds. The BBQ lunch, the Treasure Hunt Trail adventure, and the always-popular Book Fair made the day extra special — a huge thank you to all who joined us and helped celebrate the rich sense of community that makes Emerald Primary such a warm and welcoming place.
Last Friday’s PJ Dress-Up Day was another fun event, with students (and staff!) enjoying a relaxed day in their cosiest attire. A special mention to our Early Act Club, who organised the day and raised an impressive $600 to support a school in Africa — a wonderful example of our students leading with kindness and global awareness.
We’ve also begun welcoming our 2026 Prep students and their families for their first Transition visits. It’s always exciting to see new faces (and familiar ones!) exploring classrooms and starting to feel part of the Emerald PS community — we can’t wait to watch the students’ confidence grow over the coming weeks.
Next Friday we’re looking forward to Crazy Hair Day, organised by our Student Action Team, who are fundraising for some extra sports equipment for our grades. We can’t wait to see the creativity on display! As it coincides with Halloween, we remind families that masks are not permitted, as they can sometimes be a little too spooky for our younger students.
We also hope to see many families at our upcoming Working Bee on Saturday 8th November, from 1:00pm to 4:00pm. It’s a great opportunity to lend a hand, catch up with other families, and enjoy some delicious afternoon tea treats together.
And of course, things are really gearing up with preparations for the EPS Fair — it’s shaping up to be a fantastic community event, so stay tuned for more details in the coming weeks!
Thank you to everyone for your ongoing support and enthusiasm — it’s what makes our school such a special place to learn and belong.
Some parents have asked me to clarify some details about Monday 3rd November, which is the day before the Melbourne Cup Day holiday. From past experience it is evident that many families use this day to take a longer weekend as their last chance for a break before Christmas. We know that class numbers are significantly down, usually with around 5-10 students in each class, so normal programs tend to be postponed for the day. If you are able to indicate on Compass prior to the day if you anticipate your child/children being absent on the day, that would be very helpful. In Compass, please click on “Add Attendance Note”. Please be assured that any student attending on this Monday will be supervised all day, but it is very probable that the normal school programs will not be running. This includes the closing of the school Canteen for the day.
With the vision of the school’s Building and Grounds Team (lead by Julia Weir), to brighten up the school and make it representative of our beautiful surroundings and values we have a new mural outside of the office by a local artist and school parent, Inge-Marie Terkildsen.
Inge-Marie is inspired by the rolling hills and stunning local landscape the EPS nestles into and when asked to paint a mural for the school and the kids, drew on her inspiration. Starting with a pencil sketch, she then transferred this to the large wall – working on the bigger sections and then getting to the smaller and smaller details, including the Puffing Billy, Emerald Lake, Bunjil, our wonderful Pepi’s Land running tracks, and finally the majestic forests that surround us.
“One of the most enjoyable parts of painting the mural was the interaction with the kids and getting their feedback”, reports Inge. How lucky we are to have one of your original art works at the front of the school to represent all of us in this community. Thank you, Inge!
Planning Classes for 2026
As we continue Term 4, teachers begin the process of creating classes for 2026 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 31st 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 2026 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 unless there is a special needs diagnosis, and/or substantial adjustments being made for a student’s learning, 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 2026.
We are coming into an important time of year regarding planning for 2026. 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.
- October Events:
- Thurday 23rd October – Regional Athletics (Selected Students)
- Thursday 23rd October – School Council meeting @ 7.30pm
- Monday 27th October – Prep 2026 Transition Program
- Wednesday 29th October – Divisional Cricket (Selected Students)
- Thursday 30th October – Prep 2026 Transition Program
- Friday 31st October – Crazy Hair Day
- November Events:
- Tuesday 4th November – Melbourne Cup Public Holiday
- Saturday 8th November – Working Bee @1pm
- Monday 10th November – Prep 2026 Transition Program
- Thursday 13th November – Prep 2026 Transition Program
- Saturday 15th November – School Fair
- Thursday 20th Novemeber – School Council Meeting @ 7.30pm
- Monday 24th November – Grade 5 Indoor Soccer
- Wednesday 26th November – Prep 2026 Meet the Teacher Evening
- Friday 28th November – Curriculum Day (No Students at School)
This Week…
Book Fair – Thank You!
A huge thank you to all the parents, grandparents and special friends who visited and supported our Book Fair! Your enthusiasm for reading and generous purchases have helped us raise over $2000 (final amount to follow) to spend on new books for our library.
We’re so grateful for the wonderful support from our school community — our shelves will soon be filled with lots of exciting new stories for students to enjoy!
Kerrie Eva
Librarian
PJ Dress-Up Day
It was wonderful to see so many students supporting our Early Act program and joining in the fun of Pyjama Day on Friday! The school was filled with smiles, slippers, and colourful pyjamas as everyone came together for a great cause. Students also enjoyed the delicious brownies made by the Early Act team, with the profits helping to boost our fundraising total. Thanks to the generosity of our school community, we raised an amazing $600, which will help students from a school in Eswatini purchase much-needed sports equipment. What a fantastic effort—well done, everyone!
EPS Families – have your say to update our School Values!
Dear Families of Emerald Primary School,
Our current school values of Friendliness, Success, and Respect have guided us well for many years. As we prepare to introduce the School Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) Framework, it’s the right time to refresh our values.
Teaching staff recently identified the key behaviours they expect in all school settings, which has led to seven proposed values. Now we would like your input, in addition will be seeking student feedback over coming weeks. The survey will be open for two weeks – Friday 10th October 2025 – Friday 24th October 2025, inclusive .
👉 Please rate the values in order of your preference.
A “1” rating being the value that resonates the most with you or means the most for your child/children here at EPS, and a “7” rating meaning least important.
Each of the values has a list of dot points underneath, defining what the value means.
Survey Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScVshEiWoUpHwa3Ywr0HgMM6ToHuU-1NwAbhLNYFsA7ywSNVA/viewform?usp=header
Thank you for your input.
Bianca Appleby and SWPBS Team
Values Awards from end of Term 3!
Benji L
Benji has been an outstanding role model and a valued member of Prep B since the very start of the year. He consistently demonstrates respect by listening attentively, showing kindness, and following our school rules. Benji’s dedication to his learning is evident through his motivation to practice new skills and his persistence when faced with challenges. He exemplifies true friendship by including others in his play, cooperating, and solving problems fairly and thoughtfully.Congratulations, Benji! You are a treasured member of both our class and Emerald Primary School, and we are proud of all that you achieve.
Zoe B
Zoe, your outstanding kindness, honesty, and respect towards others is so lovely to see. Everyday your caring nature and positive attitude shine through and make you a wonderful friend and role model. Keep up the great work Zoe, your bright spirit inspires everyone around you.
Ava D
You are a kind and thoughtful student who brings a wonderful energy to our classroom each day. Your friendly nature, exceptional manners, and the genuine way you greet both teachers and classmates never goes unnoticed. It’s these thoughtful, everyday actions that make you such a valued member of our class. You listen intently during teaching time, and your strong understanding of the content really shines through. Your ability to take feedback on board with a great attitude and use it to turn your work into a masterpiece is truly rewarding.
Congratulations Ava!
Jye L
Jye is such a wonderful member of our Year 1/2Team and constantly displays such friendly and cheerful values with all his classmates. He is very respectful, an inclusive student who is happy and willing to join in and work with any friend in a proactive and supportive way. He consistently offers insightful ideas and opinions while respectfully listening to others. Jye is such a kind student who always works towards achieving our EPS school and class values every day. Congratulations Jye on your wonderful achievements.
Shayla W
For the positive attitude she brings to her learning each day. She approaches her schoolwork with focus and persistence, taking pride in her progress and achievements. Shayla is kind, caring, and inclusive, treating everyone with fairness and respect. She works happily and cooperatively with all her classmates, and her wonderful character shines through in everything she does, displaying our school values of Friendliness, Respect, and Success. Congratulations on this well-deserved achievement!
Chloe M
Chloe, you are a caring, considerate, and positive member of our class. You approach all tasks with a positive attitude and are always happy to “give it a go”, no matter how big or small the challenge. You are always a kind and thoughtful friend, going out of your way to make sure no one feels left out. You show friendliness in all you do, offering a helping hand, a warm smile, or comforting others when they are upset.
You make our classroom a brighter place, Chloe. Thank you for being you.
Noah N
Noah shines as a wonderful example of our school values of Friendliness, Respect, and Success. He always greets others with a smile, treats everyone with kindness, and puts in his best effort every day. Whether he’s helping a friend or trying something new, Noah shows us what it means to be a respectful and successful learner. Noah, your friendliness makes our classroom brighter, your respect makes our school stronger, and your success inspires us all. We are so proud to celebrate you with this Values Award!
Pearl M
Pearl consistently demonstrates Emerald Primary School’s core values of friendliness, respect and success. Pearl is a kind and thoughtful student who is sensitive to the needs of others and leads by example through her considerate actions. Her positive attitude towards learning reflects her determination, curiosity, and eagerness to refine her work by embracing feedback, ensuring she continually produces work of a very high standard. Pearl is a wonderful friend and team member, showing respect by sharing, collaborating, and contributing insightful ideas during class discussions with both her peers and teachers. Through her dedication, kindness, and genuine care for others, Pearl shines as a wonderful role model in our school community.
Ella W
Ella is a quiet and caring person who always displays our school values of Friendliness, Respect and Success. She is inclusive of everyone, always willing to help others, and shows lovely manners each day. Ella takes on any task asked of her with a gorgeous smile and a positive attitude. She is a joy to teach!
Well done, Ella!
Clara G-G
Clara is a shining example of respect, responsibility, and kindness within our school community. She treats others with thoughtfulness and care, always showing respect in her interactions with others. Clara takes responsibility for her learning by staying organised and looking after her belongings. She is honest, dependable, and brings a positive attitude to the classroom each day. Clara supports her peers with compassion and her enthusiasm for learning and her willingness to always give her best effort is commendable. She is a wonderful asset to our classroom community. Congratulations on being the recipient of the 3H Values award, Clara!
Alice H
Alice has had a fantastic year, consistently embodying our school values of friendliness, respect, and success. Her positive attitude and commitment to excellence are truly admirable. She is always willing to go above and beyond, whether it’s striving to exceed expectations in her own work, offering a helping hand to others, or showing genuine kindness and respect to every member of our school community. Congratulations, Alice, on your outstanding achievements this year. Your dedication and character are truly inspiring—keep up the amazing work!
Arielle F
This award goes to a student who consistently demonstrates the quiet strength of character that truly reflects our school’s core values. Though she may be soft-spoken, her presence is powerful in the way she supports others with kindness, empathy, and a calm confidence. She is the kind of friend who shows up when it matters most – offering a listening ear, a thoughtful word, or a helping hand, often without needing to be asked.
She treats everyone with respect and dignity, never seeking the spotlight, but always setting an example through her actions. Her academic achievements are many, yet she remains humble and grounded, always willing to help others without ever showing off. In every sense, she embodies what it means to be friendly, respectful, and successful – and we are proud to recognise Arielle with this Values Award.
Will M
Will demonstrates positive values every day through his words and actions. He models kindness to all those around him and is so enthusiastic about doing things just to make others feel supported and happy. He is respectful by listening carefully and treating others fairly. Will works hard, always, and he achieves success by setting goals, seeking feedback, and celebrating the achievements of himself and others. He is a positive role model, and we are all richer for hearing his insightful thoughts on making the world a better place or what we can do to help take care of each other. You should be very proud of the thoughtful, kind and enthusiastic person you are. Congratulations, Will!
Rowan S
Rowan is a friendly and inclusive classmate who happily works with anyone and makes sure others feel welcome. In the yard, he looks out for those who need help, showing kindness and care. In the classroom, he approaches every activity with enthusiasm and always gives 100% effort. Rowan always has positive attitude, respect for others, and commitment to doing his best make him a wonderful role model for our school community.
Sofia D
Sofia is a shining example of our school values of Friendliness, Respect, and Success. She is always respectful towards her teachers and classmates, listening attentively and giving her very best effort in every task. She is a quiet achiever who is kind, approachable, and supportive of others. Her commitment to success is evident in the way she pushes through her learning, working hard before seeking help, and striving for excellence in all that she does. Much like her favourite Harry Potter character Hermoine, Sofia shows that true magic lies not in spells or wands, but in dedication, kindness, and the courage to learn. You’re a wizard Sofia!
Hayden B
Hayden shines as a member of 5F, bringing enthusiasm, kindness, and
thoughtfulness to everything he does. He is a true role model, consistently
demonstrating our school values of friendliness, respect, and success; not only
in the classroom but across the whole school. Hayden approaches his learning
with positivity, determination, and a strong desire to improve. Hayden, your
caring nature, inclusiveness, and warm personality brighten our class each day.
All of us in 5F believe you deserve this award, you truly are a delight to have in
our class.
Ollie D
We are proud to present the 5SA Values Award to Ollie. His classmates describe him as a caring friend both inside and outside of school, someone who always puts others before himself and who shows kindness in all that he does. He consistently tries his best in every situation and treats everyone—teachers and peers alike—with respect. Whether in the classroom, the yard, or at specialist lessons, he is a role model through his thoughtful listening and considerate actions. Ollie truly demonstrates what it means to live our school values of Friendliness, Respect and Success every day. Keep on being the awesome person you are, Ollie, and you will go so far!
Edith R
Edith, you are a shining light in 6A, living out our school values each and every day! You show kindness and care in the way you include others, offer help, and listen so thoughtfully. Your determination and positive attitude not only help you succeed in your learning but also shine through in your horse riding. We are so proud of the example you set for your classmates – congratulations, Edith!
Alyssa X
Alyssa is receiving our Values Award for the positive and uplifting way she contributes to our school community. She gives her best effort in every session, showing determination and pride in her learning, and she treats everyone with kindness and care. Alyssa is welcoming and inclusive, encouraging all students and making sure everyone feels valued and supported. Alyssa’s positive attitude, warm nature, and commitment to doing her best make her a wonderful role model for our school. Congratulations, Alyssa!
Ella R
Ella is a shining example of Emerald Primary School’s values of friendliness, respect, and success. She shows genuine kindness to everyone, always ready to help younger students and support her peers, whether they are close friends or not. Ella approaches learning with determination, giving her best even when things are challenging. She is a true cheerleader for others in her year level, creating a positive and encouraging environment. In class, Ella works collaboratively, includes others, and consistently shows respect to her classmates, teachers, community members, and our school property. I am proud to recognise Ella for living out our Emerald Primary School values every day.
Hailey D 1/2PM
For always bringing a positive, respectful and friendly attitude to all Physical Education lessons. Hailey your wonderful smile brings warmth and happiness to our lessons. You’re an excellent role model for you classmates. Congratulations!
Anna C 4C
Anna is a respectful and enthusiastic student during Physical Education. She is always attending lessons with a happy and positive attitude. Anna is always willing to try new activities and enjoys improving her sporting skills.
Congratulations Anna, you bring such positive, friendly energy to Physical Education.
Archie L 1/2R
Archie has earned this award for his wonderful example of demonstrating our school values. He shows friendliness in his words and actions, respect in the way he listens and helps, and responsibility in the way he approaches his learning and takes care of the learning space he is in. I am very proud of the positive impact he has in the art room and the wider school community. Well done Archie!
Eleanor L 6A
Eleanor is an excellent role model in the art room, but she is an even better human. She works hard, helps others, offers assistance around the room without being asked and always takes pride in her work. Eleanor is kind, caring, empathetic and has beautiful manners. She is always polite and friendly and constantly thinks of others and takes their feelings into consideration. Eleanor has a great sense of humour and allows others to feel safe in the school environment by encouraging and supporting them. Well done Eleanor, it is a pleasure to teach you!
Seamus K Prep B
This student had consistently come to music class with a can do attitude. They are always friendly and respectful. As a result, this student has learned a great deal about music notation and how to play a song on the xylophone.
Great job, Seamus!
Beatrice D 4C
This student started a term project dreading having to use the class laptops in order to get the task done. By half way through the term, they were talking about how they found the project very interesting. By the end of the project, they were confidently using the laptops to accomplish great things.
Well done Beatrice you are definitely on track for success!
Daisy N 1/2W
Daisy is a shining example of our school values, showing friendliness through her constant kindness and support for others. With quiet determination, focus, and resilience, she approaches every challenge with a positive attitude. Her respectful nature is seen in the way she listens, cooperates, and encourages her classmates. Through her hard work and caring spirit, she demonstrates true success both in her learning and in her attitude. Congratulations on being awarded the Junior Values Award for Nihongo! おめでとうございます(Congratulations!)
Eleanor J 6A
She is a wonderful role model who lives out our school values every day. With determination and a positive attitude, she takes on challenges and always works hard to achieve her best. She shows great respect by treating others kindly and encouraging her classmates. This year, she showed courage and resilience by taking on the challenge of entering the Japanese speech contest, a true reflection of her success. Her efforts inspire those around her and set a shining example for others to follow. Congratulations on being awarded the Senior Values Award for Nihongo! おめでとうございます(Congratulations!)
Storm F 1/2H
Storm is a wonderful role model in our STEM classroom, always demonstrating the school values through her actions. She is a respectful and attentive listener, showing kindness and patience when working independently or within a team. Her enthusiasm for learning is contagious , and she consistently shows a genuine curiosity when exploring new ideas and challenges in STEM. Storm you are a fabulous student!
Indianna M 5F
Indianna, you are a terrific role model who always makes a positive impact in the classroom. Your class work and attitude are shining examples of kindness, respect and friendliness. I am so proud of you. Keep up the brilliant effort!
Upcoming Events…
Our Working Bees are always a lot of fun, with good music playing and the kids loving getting involved and having a play. We would love some help with weeding, tree trimming, and general tidying. Please bring any extra tools you might have, but remember to label them clearly. We hope to see you there!
