Primary – From Parklands to Planets
The first two terms of 2026 have been rich in learning, connection and community. At VSV, we recognise that student wellbeing and learning go hand in hand, which is why opportunities to come together in person are such a valued part of our program. Throughout Terms 1 and 2, our Connect Days provided students and families with opportunities to strengthen relationships, build confidence and create lasting memories alongside their peers and teachers.
With one Connect Day held in person and the other online, we were able to welcome students who were overseas or travelling, extending the experience far beyond our usual reach. More than 50 students participated from around the world, creating a truly international event. Their involvement highlights both the commitment of our students and families to learning, and the unique opportunities VSV provides to ensure education remains accessible, connected and equitable across diverse circumstances.
As we reflect on these experiences, we invite our Primary families to celebrate the many positive moments that emerged from simply showing up, joining in and being part of our community.
Term 1 Connect Day
What an amazing day our Primary students, their families and teachers had in the Darebin Parklands and in the Science lab on Thursday.
The purpose of Primary Connect Day is to give our primary teachers, students and families the chance to meet, connect and get to know each other — and it certainly felt like we achieved that. I personally loved being part of the excursion, walking along the track, and chatting with students, parents, and grandparents. Those relaxed conversations are often where the real connection happens, and it was wonderful to see our VSV community together in such a beautiful setting.
There were so many highlights — students enjoying the walk and supporting each other along the way, the now-famous calls of “bike!”, “runner!” and “keep to the left!”, Ranger Pete sharing his love of all things creepy and crawly, and the joy on students’ faces as they embraced their inner scientists during Emily and Tania’s wonderful activities.
Thank you also to colleagues from across the school who came along to support the Primary Team — particularly Cheryl, Stephen, Conor, Joe, Jordan, and Jeanette — as well as Libby and Karen for their warm welcome to families, and the Inclusion and Wellbeing teams for their support with planning.
Days like this remind us how lucky we are to be part of such a supportive school community.
Fiona Webster, Executive Principal
Term 2 Connect Day
The second Primary Connect Day of the year truly out of this world, bringing together students, families, and staff for a fantastic day of learning, creativity, connection, and fun. Inspired by a space theme, students participated in a range of engaging activities, including the energetic “Moon Dance,” an interactive Scienceworks presentation, and creative workshops where they designed their own “solar system in my pocket” and painted vibrant nebulas. The day captured the curiosity, imagination and wonder of space while strengthening students’ sense of belonging within the VSV community.
One particularly special moment was when one student bravely shared that they were feeling nervous – a reminder of the importance of creating safe and supportive spaces where students feel comfortable being themselves.
A sincere thank you to all staff involved in the organisation, teamwork and collaboration that made the day such a success. Special thanks to the organising committee – Cheryl, Emma, Courtney and Sophie – for their outstanding work, and to Xiaohan and Paul for their invaluable support with the Teams platform. Congratulations to the entire Primary team on a wonderful virtual event.
Beyond the fun and excitement of these memorable experiences, we recognise that every learner’s journey is different. Whether continuing online, exploring shared enrolment opportunities or preparing for a new chapter, each student’s path is shaped by what helps them learn, grow and thrive. As we head into a well-deserved break and look ahead to Term 3, we wish all our students and families continued confidence in following the path that feels right for them, celebrating progress in all its forms along the way.
What’s coming up in Term 3?
Connect Day is onsite at VSV on Monday 31 August. We have an incursion booked with Supreme Incursions and we will be investigating Forces and Energy using hands on materials. Stay tuned for an Expression of Interest and permission form to follow early next term.
