MEET THE PRINCIPAL

Welcome! I am delighted to be the new Principal of South Melbourne Park Primary School, having begun my tenure in July, 2022. One of the first things that you may notice, as I did, is the magnificent blend of old and new in this heritage setting. Steeped in history, the Royal Australian Corps of Signals buildings and Drill Hall date back to 1933. These buildings have since been developed with integrity, to connect beautifully with the flexible learning spaces of our contemporary Discovery Building. Our school is carefully integrated into the parklands, surrounded by Albert Park Lake and one of Melbourne’s leading sports precincts. We know that learning doesn’t just happen at school and this provides incredible opportunities for our students to take their curiosity into the broader community. At South Melbourne Park Primary School, our vision is to inspire a new generation of curious minds. We nurture children to develop self-belief, and a thinking mindset that empowers them to live an abundant and successful life. Fostering a learning culture that promotes curiosity and wonderment enables students to have agency in their own learning, to gain the confidence to take risks, to think critically and creatively and to be the innovators of tomorrow. We also privilege time for what we call ‘Passions’. We dedicate time each week for our students to explore their personal interests and strengths, with teacher guidance, and offer learning opportunities for them to discover new passions. Not only does this nurture joy in learning, it also promotes positive student engagement. The staff at South Melbourne Park are passionate about our vision, and our programs and practices are progressive and research-based, keeping us a step ahead. The staff bring an incredible energy and thirst to the continued development of their professional knowledge and practice. Our teachers play as a team by collaborating and planning in professional learning communities. Whilst curiosity and passions are key parts of our approach, we place a strong emphasis on Literacy and Numeracy, as critical areas of learning. The development of strong foundational skills provides a platform from which student passions and wonderings can take flight. Our families are an integral part of how we ‘play as a team’. We are proud of our inclusive, culturally diverse community and value the support they provide for their children, as partners in their learning. Parents and carers are encouraged to be actively involved in many facets of our school life, such as classroom support, families and friends’ events, school council and breakfast club. It is incredibly important to us for our families to feel valued and to gain a real sense of belonging to our South Melbourne Park community. I will finish by highlighting our most important cultural value, Kids at the Heart. Our decisions are always underpinned by what is in the best interests of our children, and I know that this will become evident if you choose to walk with us, in the future. I encourage prospective families to learn more about the school by exploring our website and taking a school tour. South Melbourne Park – where children love to be! Nicole Arnold Principal