From The Acting Principal

Over the past few months our staff members have been working proactively with Burwood Council to explore ways to keep our students – your children, safe around the perimeter of the School. There have been ongoing reports of dangerous driving and poor decision making, which continue to create unsafe situations for our students. For example, there have been complaints about parents dropping off their Junior School daughters on Park Road and having near misses as the students dart across the road; parents making three point turns on Park Road; parents blocking the driveways of residents, and more. Burwood Council has increased Ranger presence and are issuing fines, but the safety of our students is of paramount importance. We urge you to be extra cautious when driving around our school premises. The beginning and end of the school day are busy times, with children arriving and departing, and we all have a role to play in making sure these moments are as safe as possible. Please be reminded of the following:

  1. Mind the Speed Limits: Speed limits are set around schools for a reason – to protect our children. Please adhere to these limits and drive at a speed that allows you to react quickly to any unexpected situations. Remember, a moment’s hesitation can make all the difference.
  2. No Mobile Phones: Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents. When you are near the School, please put away your mobile phone. Keep your attention on the road and be prepared for sudden stops or changes in traffic flow.
  3. Follow Drop-off and Pick-up Procedures: Familiarise yourself with the School’s drop-off and pick-up procedures. These guidelines were designed to keep traffic flowing smoothly and to ensure the safety of students as they enter or exit vehicles.
  4. Watch for Buses: School buses are frequent visitors to our campus. Be aware of bus stops and the rules about stopping for buses when they have their stop signs and flashing lights on.
  5. Park Responsibly: If you need to park your vehicle, do so in designated areas. Avoid double parking, blocking footpaths, or stopping in no-parking zones. This ensures clear visibility for all, prevents unnecessary congestion, and ensures our neighbours can enter and exit their homes.
  6. Be Patient: During drop-off and pick-up times, there may be a higher volume of traffic. Patience goes a long way in maintaining a safe environment.
  7. Teach by Example: Children often notice the behaviours they observe. Show them the importance of respect and responsible driving by adhering to traffic rules and displaying courtesy to other drivers and pedestrians.
  8. Stay Informed: Keep an eye out for any updates from the School regarding changes in traffic patterns, road closures, or safety reminders. Staying informed will help you make the best decisions while driving around the school.
  9. Report Concerns: If you notice any safety concerns or witness dangerous driving behaviour around the School, do not hesitate to report them to the local authorities. Your vigilance can make a significant impact on the safety of our community.

By practicing safe driving habits around our School, you contribute to the wellbeing of our students and help create an environment where everyone can thrive

While I am speaking of parental behaviour, the Independent Primary School Heads of Australia (IPSHA) have asked all member schools to remind parents about the IPSHA Sport Code of Conduct.

Engaging in sports offers children valuable life lessons, fitness, and a sense of camaraderie. However, the success of children’s sports experiences goes beyond the field. Parents play a pivotal role in shaping their child’s perception of sports, competition, and teamwork. To ensure a positive and constructive environment, the implementation of the IPSHA Code of Conduct is paramount. This code establishes a set of expectations for parental behaviour during practices, games, and interactions with coaches, officials, and other parents.

IPSHA Code of Conduct

  • Play by the rules
  • Respect the official’s decision
  • Make it a positive experience for the children
  • Focus on efforts and performance rather than the result
  • Remember they are children, and it is a game

Any complaints should not be made during the game and should be referred to your daughter’s Director of Sport, and any action should be left to his/her discretion.

Under no circumstances should parents contact other schools directly.

It is our shared responsibility to ensure that our School is a place where students can learn, play, and grow without unnecessary risks or negativity.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our School community.

– Melissa Boyd
Acting Principal