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, 

We have been delighted with the strong interest shown in our Foundation tours for 2026. The overwhelming feedback has been incredibly positive, particularly around the strength of our teaching and learning program and the introduction of The Resilience Program.

A key highlight has been the introduction of the InitiaLit program—a systematic, synthetic phonics approach delivered from Foundation to Year Two. This initiative reflects our commitment to evidence-based approaches to teaching and learning. Now in its second year, we are seeing pleasing improvements in students’ reading and writing skills, along with encouraging results in recent NAPLAN assessments.

Families touring our school have also shared their appreciation for our generous open spaces within the school grounds. Our well-maintained ovals provide plenty of room for students to run, play, and enjoy their time outside the classroom. The huge spaces at Mentone Park Primary School plays a key role in supporting a calm and positive environment during recess and lunchtime. Along with our well-resourced library that is open at lunchtimes that allows for a quiet space for our students to read or choose a mindfulness colouring activity or play boardgames together.

We would also like to acknowledge and congratulate the students who recently participated in the G.A.T.E.WAYSprogram. G.A.T.E.WAYS is a Victorian Government program that provides opportunities for highly able and gifted children. Like-minded students can participate in programs that challenge them intellectually and help develop their individual talents—often with a focus on science and/or maths.
Congratulations to all the students who attended: Mitch, Billy, Jase, Casey, Olivia, Juniper, Lachy, Sid, and Josh!

I'm also pleased to share that our 2024 Annual Report to the School Community is now available on our website. This important document not only fulfils our legal obligations but also offers a comprehensive reflection on our school’s achievements over the past year.

Currently, our staff are also engaged in assessing student learning and beginning the process of writing Semester One reports. These reports, which will be distributed in the final week of this term, provide a detailed summary of your child’s progress against the Victorian Curriculum and include comments on their social and emotional development.

We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with our families to support every student’s learning journey at Mentone Park Primary School.

Leisa Higgins 

Important Dates

In the Spotlight / Overview:

In recent weeks, we’ve introduced ‘Tricky Words’ as part of our InitiaLit literacy program. These are words like the, was, and said that can’t be easily sounded out and need to be recognised by sight.

Your child should have brought home their Term 2 Reading Journal and a Tricky Word Keyring. We’re currently focusing on Set 1 and Set 2 in class.

To support learning at home, please practise these words together each night. Just a few minutes makes a big difference!

Some easy ideas:

• Read the words aloud together

• Play games like ‘read and point’ or ‘word hunt’

• Stick a few on the fridge or wall for quick review

Thanks for your ongoing support—it really helps reinforce classroom learning!

Heads Up!

In the past few weeks there has been a particular rise with our little ones in the Foundation area, presenting as very unwell to school. Ensuring our students are happy and healthy is our number one priority. We do have a number of students in our Mentone Park Community that have immune systems that are compromised, making them highly susceptible to infection and illness. Therefore, we please ask that if your child is unwell that you, please keep your child at home until they have fully recovered. Even if they don’t have a fever, they still may be infectious and too unwell to complete the tasks that come with school.

Just a reminder if your child is experiencing diarrhoea and/or vomiting, as per guidelines they should not attend school until 48 hours after they no longer have symptoms. If they are unwell at school, parents will be contacted to come and collect their child from school.

We have been discussing the importance of personal hygiene and hand washing in class, but we please ask if you could also further discuss this at home, we would greatly appreciate it.

Literacy: We have been learning the single sounds d, h and e, whilst being introduced to our Set 1 and Set 2 Tricky Words. In addition to learning to write a recount on our Library sessions with Helen, with a focus on adding detail to our sentences.

Numeracy: We have been learning our ‘Friends of Ten’ and making number pairs up to 10. In addition, we have also begun our unit on ‘Shapes’ where we have been developing our understanding on 2D shapes such as; circles, triangles, rectangles and squares.

Inquiry: We are learning to understand the features of be safe on and with the iPad. In addition, to advancing our problem-solving skills when navigating applications.

Wellbeing: We have been learning to understand that empathy involves noticing and responding to the feelings and emotions of others.

Recognising TIER Role Models

Aisling CH - For her active and insightful participation in class discussions. You are always pushing yourself to improve, well done!

Sophie B – For writing a fantastic 'weekend recount' with great detil and punctuation. Amazing work! 

Rain V - For confidently using a ten frame to demonstrate number pairs that equal 10. Rain, you are a superstar mathematician!

Jonah K - For showing outstanding perseverance in writing. You carefully sounded out every word in your recount and showed amazing concentration. 

Important Dates

In the Spotlight / Overview:

It’s hard to believe we’re already halfway through Term 2! The term has been filled with meaningful learning and enthusiastic engagement.

This week, we launched our new Writing unit on Information Reports. Students have been learning the differences between imaginative and informative texts and practise extracting and recording facts from nonfiction sources.

In Mathematics, students are strengthening their addition and subtraction skills using number lines, base-10 blocks, and place value charts to support understanding and build confidence with number operations.

Heads Up!

Please ensure your child has their Black Communication Folder that contains their Reading Diary and take-home books, at school each day.

• Cold season is among us! Please keep your child home when they are sick, to allow them time to recover and reduce the chance of spreading illness to other children and our staff.
• Please make sure your child has their Library Bag and Library book each Wednesday for their weekly Library lesson, they will not be able to borrow without them. The students will also have an extra opportunity to return/borrow books during their fortnightly (Friday) Library lesson with Helen.
• We hope your children are enjoying using the Nessy program at home. ‘Nessy is an award winning, global educational company that specialises in early literacy. The company is led by reading and dyslexia specialists and follows the Science of Reading.’ All students completed a Nessy Challenge last week on Reading and Spelling, this enabled the program to set activities at the correct level for your child.

Literacy: We are learning to understand that information reports provide us with factual material. We are also identifying the main features of an information report.

InitiaLit:

• Year 1s: adding the suffix s to make plurals and the tricky words (two, three, four). Our storybook has been ‘The Lighthouse Keeper’s Lunch’ including the WOW words (devoured, scrumptious, ingenious).
• Year 2s: digraphs including ‘ar’, grammar and the comprehension strategy of ‘visualising’. Our storybook has been ‘Turtle’s Song’.

Numeracy: We are learning to add and subtract one-digit and two digit-numbers using the strategy of bridging to ten.

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

Wellbeing: We are learning to understand the importance of noticing emotions in our body, heart and mind.

Recognising TIER Role Models

Congratulations to this past two weeks’ TIER Role Models! 

Henry W - For always trying your best in all writing activities. This week, you worked well on your narrative plan and are carefully following it to write your story.

Lena Z - For her enthusiasm and willingness to contribute during InitiaLit lessons. You are learning so many new things.


Riley V - For putting in great effort in the classroom and writing an engaging narrative this week, using adjectives to make your story more interesting.

Nash B -  For working hard on all of your tasks this week and completing your narrative ‘The Box’ independently.


Amalia A - For her impressive use of adjectives and conjunctions to uplevel her writing. Your narrative about the ladybird in the box was a pleasure to read.

Elodie D - For working really hard during our InitiaLit sessions, participating in class discussions and being able to recall newly learnt sounds, digraphs and trigraphs. 

Important Dates

In the Spotlight / Overview:

A reminder that Yr 3-6 students will be participating in a 4-week (one 60–90-minute session per week) incursion facilitated by Bricks 4 Kidz. Please see above for the dates.

Heads Up!

Can you believe we’re already halfway through Term 2? Our students have been busy completing a number of assessments over the past few weeks, showcasing all they have learned so far this semester. We are very proud of their efforts!

Literacy: We have written a narrative, based on a writing prompt, “The Box”. We are also learning about the structure and language features of a Factual Recount and writing about the history of the Australian Aboriginal flag.

Numeracy: We have been learning about measuring length (including distance) and practicing using formal measurement units and tools.

Inquiry: We have been learning about the difference between hardware and software.

Wellbeing: We are learning to identify what we notice and feel in our bodies, hearts and minds when we experience uncomfortable, painful or challenging moods or emotions.

Recognising TIER Role Models

Congratulations to the past two weeks’ TIER Role Models!

Evelyn D – for working so hard on her handwriting and her effort and focus during all literacy tasks.

Isla D – For always being respectful, following instructions, and continuously being a positive role model.

Will C – for working so hard on improving his handwriting, producing excellent bookwork.

Zach N – For showing great effort and determination in writing, and making fantastic improvement in your handwriting!

Important Dates

In the Spotlight / Overview:

As we reach the halfway mark, our Senior School have been doing a wonderful job of participating in a variety of assessments to demonstrate their learning this semester. Acknowledging the significance of National Reconciliation Week and the importance of cultural understanding have also been a major focus recently, with Senior students immersing themselves in activities to help deepen their understanding. Thank you to our SRC Leaders, James & Matilda, who arranged for the SRC to collect suggestions for indigenous music for our line up bell music. 

Heads Up!

A reminder that Yr 3-6 students will be participating in a 4-week (one 60–90-minute session per week) incursion facilitated by Bricks 4 Kidz. Our first session begins this week, and the remaining dates are listed above.  

If participating in soccer or AFL for interschool sports, please remember to bring protective gear (mouthguard – both, long socks – both, shin guards – soccer). 

Literacy: Make connections (self, text & world) and inferences to the text ‘Took the Children Away’ by Archie Roach and related texts to acknowledge National Reconciliation Week.

Numeracy: Investigate the connection between area and perimeter.

Inquiry: Understand the implications of not adhering to online safety and etiquette.

Wellbeing: Understand how the catastrophe scale functions as a tool for assessing the severity of problems or challenges, and the range of emotions associated with them.

Recognising TIER Role Models

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

Annabel A – for displaying excellence in the classroom at all times. For also giving it her all at cross country! Well done.  

Elizabeth B - for excellence in increased oral reading fluency. Read it aloud and read it proud! 

In the Spotlight / Overview: 

In Auslan, Foundation and Grade 1/2 continue working on signing “I want” sentences using colours and clothing to ask for specific clothing e.g. “I want my red tshirt” or “I want my rainbow dress” This week we have started exploring Auslan signs related to the weather and begin to increase a signing sentence to include “I see sun, I want my hat” or “I see rain, I want my jacket” 

Grade 3/4 & 5/6s are extending on signing sentences to include preferred colour, pattern and clothing e.g. “I want my red, stripped shorts” or “I want my purple dotted skirt” We have started looking at weather and will extend this to presenting our weather reports in week 9 & 10.  Students continue to practice pair conversations in Auslan at the start of every lesson. 

Here are the weather signs to practice at home: 

Recognising TIER Role Models:
 

Casey A For excellent signing of "I want" sentences using colour and colours Auslan signs together.


Abby P for always showing respect when participating in Auslan.  

Students in Foundation, Grades 3/4, and 5/6 have been diving into the world of Pointillism, a painting technique where small, distinct dots of colour are applied in patterns to form an image. We explored the magic of primary and secondary colours, experimented with different painting tools, and embraced a relaxed, calm approach to our creative work.

Meanwhile, our clever creators in Grades 1/2 have been busy designing their magical collage animals. These imaginative masterpieces are still in progress, and we can't wait for you to see the final results next week…

Important Dates

In the Spotlight / Overview:

In PE this week, students have been developing their netball skills through fun, active learning. Foundation focused on throwing and catching, while Years 1/2 added footwork to build coordination. Year 3/4 students progressed to strategic games like End Ball and Crocodile, strengthening teamwork and applying netball techniques. Our 5/6s have been building on all these skills, and this week began exploring positions, rules, and applying their knowledge in game play. It’s been fantastic to see confidence, cooperation, and movement skills grow across all year levels! 

 Congratulations Henry Baker for competing at the Division Cross Country Event on Wednesday 28th May! We are so proud of you! 

Foundation: Throw and catch with control. 

Year 1/2: Throw, catch and move with control and correct footwork. 

Year 3 / 4: Use throwing, catching and teamwork strategies in games. 

Year 5 / 6:  Apply netball rules, positions and skills in game situations. 

Recognising TIER Role Models

Evie W: For displaying excellent teamwork during PE games and encouraging others to be a good sport.  

In the Spotlight / Overview

Our Year 5 and 6 students have finished designing their mini golf holes. The next step involved some practice coding of the Sphero robots using makeshift mazes. Students needed to use their knowledge of angles, as well as some trial and error and patience, to complete the coding using the Sphero App on the iPads.  

Once more confident with the coding process, the students then coded the Sphero robots to complete their mini golf hole.

Recognising TIER Role Models 
 
Myla H: For persisting with her Sphero coding when the rest of her group members were absent.

Cara K: For having an enthusiastic go during our robot drawing lesson. Keep it up Cara!

Dear Mentone Park families,  

We hope you’ve had a lovely few weeks practicing Gem Chats with your family at home, with a particular focus on Gratitude. This fortnight our Gem Chat Home Activity has a focus on Empathy.  

Review from our last newsletter edition:  

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. 

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/ 

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 empathy with your child. This fortnight’s home GEM chat has an Empathy focus.  

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

• Thank each family member for something they’ve done or said today.  

• Give each family member a compliment.  

• Share a time when someone has done something kind for you this week. Describe how it made you feel.  

• Think about someone special in your life. What makes them special, and how will you let them know this week?  

• Who made you feel cared for this week? What actions did they take? 

Small moments make a big difference—thank you for the role you play in nurturing your child's emotional growth. 

Warm regards,  

Pamela Kousis  

Student Wellbeing Coordinator  

UPCOMING

MPPS Student Disco – Friday 13th June 

Get your dancing shoes ready—our MPPS Student Disco is just around the corner! Held in the MPPS School Hall, this fun-filled night is a fantastic way for students to let loose and celebrate with friends in a safe, supervised environment.

Session Times:

• Foundation – Year 2: Crazy Creatures Theme | 5:00 PM – 6:15 PM

• Year 3 – Year 6: Tropical Theme | 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM

Ticket Info:

• $15 per student

• $30 per family (3 or more siblings)

• Tickets must be pre-purchased via CompassTix. No door sales.

Sign-In/Out Procedures:

• All students must be signed in and out by a parent or guardian.

• Please arrive promptly for your child’s session.

• No food, drinks or merchandise will be sold at the event—just pure disco fun!

Let’s make it a night to remember! 

REMINDERS

2025 School Contributions/Parent Payment Arrangements

The school contributions are important in enabling us to provide the best learning environment for the children at Mentone Park Primary School. The Mentone Park Primary School Council is extremely appreciative of the generosity of parents who are able to support the school through the payment of the voluntary contributions. 

The ongoing financial support of our families ensures the long-term viability of vital programs, facilities, and support for our students. School Council makes every effort to keep the cost of these items to a minimum and affordable for all parents.

We thank the families who have contributed as your support is greatly appreciated. The voluntary financial contributions for 2025 are available on QKR. If you have any questions regarding payment, please contact the office.

School Saving Bonus reminder and allocation to school activities 

The Victorian Government has delivered the School Saving Bonus (SSB) – a one-off support of $400 for eligible government school students from Prep to Year 12 in 2025.

The SSB can be used for uniforms until Monday 30 June 2025.

Any funds remaining after 30 June 2025, including online voucher amounts that have not been redeemed, will become a credit to use on school activities. However, the credit will not be available on your family account at our school until late July.

To use any remaining SSB funds to cover the cost of school activities in July, please refer to the SSB online system and allocate the funds to school activities before 30 June 2025.

To learn more about the SSB online system, download the step-by-step System guide for parents and carers (DOCX, 945KB) or watch this School Saving Bonus video. System guide translations are also available in 14 languages.

The Department of Education’s SSB contact centre will remain available until 30 June 2025. The contact centre can be reached by:

• completing the School Saving Bonus enquiry form 
• calling 1800 338 663, between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm on weekdays.

After this date, please contact the office for any SSB related questions.

CSEF Funding Applications is closing soon

This is a reminder to families that if you have a current Health Care Card or Pension Card, you may be eligible for the Camps/Sport/Excursions Fund (CSEF) payment. If your child is eligible, $154 will be used towards excursions, camps and sporting activities run through the school. 

If you are eligible, please contact the office before the 27th of June.

Change of contact details

Parents and guardians – please ensure that any changes to your contact details are communicated to the school. This includes change or address, phone numbers, emergency contacts and anything medical related. Please email mentone.park.ps@education.vic.gov.au.

Absences

If your child is absent we require parents to report this absence on Compass (before 9am). All absences need to be entered on Compass with a reason for the absence.  If you are experiencing any difficulties with Compass please contact the office.

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.

Lost Property

PLEASE take a moment to check lost property located in the Kids Cafe for any missing clothing. Within the next few weeks items that have not be collected will be added to the second hand unifrom store, as we have quite the collection!

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!