Mentone Park Primary School acknowledges the Bunurong people of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we learn and play.

We value Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and cultures’ and recognise their connection to lands, waters and communities.

We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.

Dear MPPS School Community, 

This past week has truly highlighted the heart and spirit of our wonderful school – a community where support, encouragement, and connection shines brightly. 

On Thursday, I had the absolute pleasure of attending the District Cross Country, and what a proud moment it was for our school. While the event itself was a great opportunity for our students to challenge themselves physically, what stood out most was the way our students showed up for each other. From start to finish, there was students cheering on each other on with genuine joy, words of encouragement and strategies shared on how to run a good race, and most importantly celebration if everyone's efforts, regardless of finishing place. 

It was clear to see that our students don’t just know each other – they truly support one another. The friendships, the encouragement, and the shared pride reflected the connections that make Mentone Park Primary School so special. I am incredibly proud of how our students represent not only themselves but also the values of our school community. 

In addition to the cross country, last week our Year 5/6 students headed off to Cave Hill Creek for camp – and what an amazing adventure they had! From bushwalking and canoeing, the students threw themselves into every activity with enthusiasm. The students returned from camp very happy along with the food also being a major hit! 

This experience was only made possible thanks to the incredible efforts of our dedicated staff and parent volunteers. A huge thank you to Ms Oates, Mr Griffin, Mrs Unwin, Abbey, and Ace for their energy and care. I would also like to thank to our parent helpers Katherine, Lisa, and Jenni.  

These two events reminded us of one of our greatest strengths as a school: the way we look after one another. Whether it’s at a sporting event, on a camp, or in the classroom, our students and staff continue to build a community where every person feels seen, supported, and celebrated. Mentone Park Primary School- the best school ever! 

Leisa Higgins 

Important Dates 

• Friday 23rd of May - Biggest Morning Tea for Cancer  

• Monday 2nd - Tuesday 3rd of June - Foundation School Nurse Visit  

• Monday 9th of June - King's Birthday Public Holiday  

• Tuesday 10th of June - Student Free Day  

• Friday 13th of June - School Disco  

• Friday 27th of June - Reports Released   

• Wednesday 2nd of July - Parent Teacher Interviews   

• Friday 4th of July – 100 Days of School and Last Day of Term  

In the Spotlight / Overview

We are well into the swing of Term 2, and no surprises, it has been jam-packed with learning! 

We are now coming in each morning and reading our take home readers as part of our morning routine. It is wonderful to see how quickly the children have adopted this new routine, and we thank them for looking after their books and diaries, and bringing them to school each day! 

Heads Up!  

Take Home Reading Diaries   

This week we have sent home new ‘My Home Reading Diaries’. These look slightly different to the Term 1 diaries. Please write the title of your child’s nightly reading, date and your initials. You will notice there are only 4 entries per page – this does not mean only read for 4 nights – please work through the diary as you go, and ignore where it says Week 1, 2, 3 etc. at the top. 

We also encourage you to practice the tricky words at the back of the diary (more on tricky words below!). We are currently learning ‘Set 1’. 

School Nurse 

Just a reminder that the School Health Nurse will be visiting this term. Some students are yet to provide consent or advise if they do not wish to participate. Please ensure you do this ASAP. 

Library   

Another reminder that both Foundation classes now attend the Library once a fortnight on a Friday for one hour. You must have a library bag in order to borrow!   

Literacy: We have been learning the single sounds o, c and d, whilst continuing to explore how to blend sounds together to read a word. We are also learning that when we write, we do the opposite! We think of the word and then stretch it out and record the sounds we hear.   

We also worked very hard to complete our Mother’s Day cards in our neatest handwriting, focussing on correct entry and exit points. We hope you liked them! 

Numeracy: We are continuing to learn to partition numbers to 10 into two and three parts, using counters and tens frames. 

We are also honing our subitising skills. Subitising is the ability to instantly recognise how many things are in a small group without counting, and it helps us develop strong number sense and builds our confidence!   

Inquiry: We have been exploring how we can use digital systems to collect data and solve problems. We graphed our favourite colours, and now the teachers know what coloured paper to avoid! 

Wellbeing: We are learning to recognise the physical reactions of our bodies when we feel certain emotions, how to label those feelings and then things we can do when we are feeling that emotion. For example: I feel hot and my cheeks are turning red. I am feeling embarrassed. I can take a big deep breath.   

Recognising T.I.E.R Role Models


Emily B - For demonstarting the value of excellence in our maths lesson of partitioning! Amazing work splitting numbers!


Madi M - For always showing kindness and respect towards her classmates by carefully listening and thoughtfully sharing her ideas.


Ivy T - For showing excellence with your improved speaking and listening skills.


Finn V - For showing resilience and determination when completing his recount writing.

Important Dates

• Friday 16th May - Walk Safely to School Day 

• Friday 23rd May - Biggest Morning Tea for Cancer 

• Tuesday 27th – 3rd June - National Reconciliation Week  

• Monday 9th June - King’s Birthday Public Holiday 

• Tuesday 10th of June - Student Free Day  

• Friday 13th of June - School Disco  

• Friday 20th June: A-Bot Robotics Incursion 

• Friday 27th of June - Reports Released   

• Wednesday 2nd of July - Parent Teacher Interviews   

• Friday 4th July: Last Day of Term 

In the Spotlight / Overview

Junior School has had a fantastic start to Term 2! In Writing, students have been exploring narrative storytelling, with a strong focus on the importance of planning and structuring their stories with a clear beginning, middle, and end. 

In Mathematics, we’ve been learning to compare and classify objects by length using terms such as ‘shorter than’, ‘longer than’, and ‘the same as’. Students have particularly enjoyed the hands-on experience of searching around the classroom to informally measure and compare various objects. 

During Inquiry, students will be developing their technological skills through an exciting Autobiography project using Google Classroom. This is a wonderful opportunity for them to get creative and challenge themselves digitally. These projects will be shared with peers later in the term. 

In the coming weeks, students will be completing a variety of assessments to support the preparation of reports and ensure an accurate reflection of each child’s learning journey. 

Heads Up!

Packing for school

Writing: We are learning to plan and then write a narrative with a clear beginning, middle and end. We have also been learning to develop and write clear problems and use descriptive language. 

InitiaLit: Year 1s: trigraphs including ‘igh’, digraphs including ‘ue’ and ‘ew’, tricky words (mother, brother, father) and adjectives. Our storybook has been ‘Bears Don’t Read’ including the WOW words (strolling, gazed, peculiar). Year 2s: split digraph (bossy ‘e’) and words + ing, tricky words (display, really, animal, because), grammar and the comprehension strategy of ‘visualising’. Our storybook has been ‘Chooks in Dinner Suits’ including the WOW words (display, trample, rummage, loyal). 

Numeracy: We are learning to measure, compare and order the lengths of objects and shapes using informal units. 

Inquiry (Digital Technologies): We are learning to navigate Google Classroom and use Google Slides to digitally publish an autobiography project. 

Wellbeing (The Resilience Project): We are learning to build a mindset of gratitude by appreciating the positive aspects of our lives. 

Recognizing TIER Role Models  

Important Dates 

• Friday May 16 – Walk Safely to School Day 

• Friday 23rd of May - Biggest Morning Tea for Cancer  

• Monday 9th of June - King's Birthday Public Holiday  

• Tuesday 10th of June - Student Free Day  

• Friday 13th of June - School Disco  

• Friday 27th of June - Reports Released   

• Wednesday 2nd of July - Parent Teacher Interviews   

• Friday 4th of July – Last Day of Term  

• Wednesday 8th to Friday 10th October – Year 3/4 Angahook Camp  

In the Spotlight / Overview

We were so proud of Henry, Sofiia, and Asher who performed at assembly the music they have been learning at their Poco Music School lessons. Don’t forget, we also have a Choir group beginning this Friday at lunchtime! 

Heads Up!

Digital Technologies Program

We are excited that our Yr 3-6 students will be participating in a 4-week (one 60–90-minute session per week) incursion facilitated by Bricks 4 Kidz. This links into our Inquiry unit, ‘Designing Our Future: Digital Technologies’. You will find all the details on Compass. Consent and payment is due by Monday, 26 May 2025. 

Homework Reminder 

Homework is due each Monday for the previous week. Students are encouraged to read for 20–30 minutes at least three nights a week. They should record the date, book title, page numbers read, and a short reflection in their reading diary. For maths, students complete 20 minutes of revision tasks each week as set in Matific (they don't necessarily have to complete all set tasks). Matific logins are glued inside each student’s diary. We also encourage students to regularly practise their multiplication tables up to 10 × 10.

Literacy: We are learning about different suffixes and the different rules around applying them. We are also learning how to write a factual recount relating to our class novel ‘Yirra and her deadly dog, Demon’. 

Numeracy: We are learning about fractions, including counting by fractions and representing them in different ways. We are practising multiplying and dividing by 3 and 4.

Inquiry: We are familiarising ourselves with different computer applications and developing our navigation and typing skills. 

Wellbeing: We are learning about mindfulness and the parts of the brain responsible for emotions, survival and memory. 

Recognising TIER Role Models 


Eva K - For demonstrating excellence, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude by challenging herself during SpellEx lessons.


Jacob P - For his focus and effort during our SpellEx lesson this week.


Zara G - For her excellence and determination in Maths, showing great progress with her fractions and 4 x tables.


Macie M - For demonstrating such effort and excellence during all spelling and writing tasks.

Important Dates 

• Friday May 16 – Walk Safely to School Day &  Interschool Sport Vs. Dingley (Away) 

• Friday 23rd of May - Biggest Morning Tea for Cancer  & Homework Due

• Thursday 29th May - Bricks4Kidz Session 1 

• Thursday 5th June - Bricks4Kidz Session 2

• Monday 9th of June - King's Birthday Public Holiday  

• Tuesday 10th of June - Student Free Day  

• Thursday 12th June - Bricks4Kidz Session 3

• Friday 13th of June - School Disco  

• Thursday 19th June - Bricks4Kidz Session 4

• Friday 27th of June - Reports Released  

• Wednesday 2nd of July - Parent Teacher Interviews   

• Friday 4th of July – Last Day of Term  

In the Spotlight / Overview

What an epic and successful Senior School Camp to Cave Hill Creek! It was incredible to share time outside of the MPPS setting and witness our students interacting with different students, challenging themselves to complete activities and working together in teams. Extra bonus that the food was delicious and the weather was perfect! Despite being exhausted, our students returned to take on Junior Mayor, Winter Interschool Sport & District Cross Country in a matter of days. Congratulations and well done on all of your efforts, we are so proud! 

Heads Up!

Winter Interschool Sports

Winter Interschool Sports successfully started last week and continues throughout the term. We encourage students to pack a spare pair of socks and change of clothes due to weather conditions and always bring a water bottle. Please note that footy boots and guernseys are to be changed into once at school (after 9am) and out of after a match (by 11am). 

Digital Technologies Program

To support our Inquiry Unit this term, ‘Designing Our Future: Digital Technologies’, our Yr 3-6 students will participate in a 4 week program delivered here onsite by Bricks 4 Kidz. Supported by Bricks 4 Kidz staff and equipment on the following dates: Thursday May 29th, June 5th, June 12th & June 19th. The all inclusive cost is $61.50 per student. Both consent and payment are due on Compass by: Monday 26th of May. Yr 5 & 6 will participate in: 

Literacy: Read and respond to queries from our class novel, Can You See Me? by Libby Scott and Rebecca Westcott. Studying the Greek prefix bi- meaning ‘life’. Write a detailed personal recount of our time at school camp.

Numeracy: Use formulas to solve problems relating to area and perimeter and apply them to worded problems. 

Inquiry: Investigate our digital footprints and how we can be safe and keep our information secure on digital platforms 

Wellbeing: Try different forms of mindfulness to see what suits our needs best and apply them in our everyday lives. 

Recognising TIER Role Models 

Kavya D - For having the courage to participate in all camp activities. Kavya was an excellent member to her group and encouraged others!


Tate F - For demonstrating integrity and excellence in the classroom last week, ans teamwork and respect this week at camp. Champion Effort!

Charlize V.D.W - For her consistent effort, persistence and perseverance in our maths lessons. Her dedication has been shown throughout her work.

In Auslan this week we have been learning to sign colours, descriptives and clothes items in Auslan.

Foundation to Grade two have been focusing on signing “I want” with their desired clothing item e.g. “I want my shorts”.

In Grade three to six we have been building onto these sentences to include a descriptive and colour with a specific colour item e.g. “I want my blue stripey jacket”

Over the coming weeks we will focus on asking for specific clothes item, as well as exploring weather signs.

Here are some clothes signs to learn with your child.

This fortnight in the Art Room, students from Foundation to Grade 6 had a fantastic time exploring the wonderful world of collage!

Foundation students showed great focus as they completed their colourful paper snakes. They did an excellent job learning how to tear, cut, and squish paper to add texture and movement to their work.

In Grades 1 and 2, students were inspired by the famous artist Wassily Kandinsky. They created vibrant collage trees, decorating them with bold and bright circles, just like Kandinsky’s abstract art.

Grades 3 and 4 let their creativity shine while designing their own collage cats. Each cat had its own unique style, full of personality, colour, and clever shapes.

Finally, Grades 5 and 6 explored body movement and shape through the art of Henri Matisse. Using bright paper cut-outs, they created dynamic collages that captured dancing, stretching, and jumping figures.

Well done to all students for their enthusiasm and creativity! The Art Room is bursting with colour and imagination!

This week in PE, all students have kicked off learning netball, with a focus on building fundamental motor skills and teamwork. 

Foundation – Year 2 are developing key skills like catching, throwing, pivoting, and spatial awareness through fun, play-based activities that support confidence and cooperation. 

Year 3/4 are building on these skills, learning passing, shooting, and basic game strategies, while working together and showing great sportsmanship. 

Year 5/6 are refining advanced skills like dodging, defensive play and tactical movement, with a strong focus on team roles, strategy, and fair play in game situations. 

We’re loving the energy and enthusiasm across all year levels as students develop both movement skills and teamwork in line with the Victorian Curriculum. 

District Cross Country 

Mentone Park was proudly represented at the District Cross Country event, held at Karkarook Park on Tuesday 13th May. Congratulations to all Year 3–6 students who participated! A special mention to Mackenzie Owens and Henry Baker who have progressed to the Division level later this month. Our students showed fantastic sportsmanship and support for one another throughout the day and should be very proud of their efforts. 

In STEAM this week, students have been busy learning new skills in fun and creative ways.

Year 1 and 2 students were introduced to the word “algorithm”. They created their own treasure maps, helping Pirate Pete find his way to the treasure by avoiding obstacles. Using arrows, students gave Pete a clear set of steps (an algorithm) to follow to reach the treasure chest.

Year 3 and 4 students have started planning short stories using Lego minifigs as their characters. Next week, they will begin creating stop motion videos to bring their stories to life.

Dear Mentone Park families,  

At Mentone Park Primary School, we are committed to supporting student wellbeing and resilience through our whole school approach The Resilience Project (TRP). Your child is already engaging with the key principles of Gratitude, Empathy, Mindfulness (GEM), Emotional Literacy and Connections in their learning, and now we have an exciting opportunity for parents and carers to deepen their understanding and bring these strategies into the home, through Gem Chats. 

What are Gem Chats? 

GEM Chats help families practice The Resilience Project’s principles of Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness (GEM), offering a simple wellbeing check-in while building stronger connections through daily conversations. 

GEM Chats are: 

• Short, regular check-ins or discussions. 

• Designed to be done in classrooms and at home. 

• Focused on helping students reflect on what they’re grateful for, how they can show empathy, and how to be more mindful. 

• A tool to build emotional literacy and resilience in kids. 

How To Use Gem Chats (This Fortnight’s Home Activity) 

We encourage Mentone Park families to make GEM Chats a part of your dinner routine to reflect, check in, and practice gratitude with your child. This fortnight’s home GEM chat has a Gratitude focus.  

Consider using the following prompts to encourage meaningful conversation with your child: 

• What are you grateful for today?  

• Share a moment that made you smile.  

• How can you support someone tomorrow?  

• What was the best part of your day? 

Additionally, The Resilience Project has ‘GEM Conversation Cards’ for sale to families to optionally purchase if they wish to. They also have Family Wellbeing Journals and GEM Kids Activity Home Books. These products have been created to support the activities students complete in class with their school journal.  Please follow the link below if you wish to purchase any of these optional products.  

https://theresilienceproject.com.au/shop/product-category/kids-products/ 

Just remember that in 21 days of practising gratitude, you rewire your brain to start scanning the world for the positives. You become three times more likely to notice a positive!  

Happy practising! We look forward to hearing about all your valuable conversations with your children.  

Warm regards,  

Pamela Kousis  

Student Wellbeing Coordinator  

Secondhand Uniforms

As the coolers months are on us please, note secondhand uniforms are available for purchase just outside the foundation class. Prices range from $2-$5.

Term 2 Calendar

Attached is the Term 2 Newsletter, designed to keep families, carers, and staff informed about upcoming educational events, activities, meetings, and fundraising opportunities for the term ahead.

Please note that while we aim to keep to this schedule, our primary focus is always the children’s education. As a result, some events may be subject to change. Thank you for your understanding.

Lunchtime Library Schedule:

• Tuesdays (2:00–2:30 PM) – Mrs. Unwin (Grades 3–6)

• Thursdays (2:00–2:30 PM) – Mrs. Smith (Foundation–Grade 2)

Thank you to everyone who has helped bring our library to life!

Poco Music is an external Music Lesson Provider to our school.

Please see below for more details.

Our lunch order Classroom Cuisine has refreshed their menu.

Please see attached for more yummy options.

After-School ART CLASS! 

Do you have a little artist at home? Let their creativity shine!

WHEN: Every Thursday
WHERE: In the Art Room
TIME: 3:40 PM – 5:00 PM
Bring a snack!

First class FREE! 

Come and create with us!