We have enjoyed a wonderful start to 2026 at SPW.

A great beginning to the year
Four Reception classes have settled in beautifully, and it has been a joy to welcome so many new families into our community — from our Early Learning Centre right through to the upper primary years.

Our Parents Welcome Drinks were held on a balmy evening and was very well attended. Parents, staff and our generous PFA volunteers came together in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, giving new families the chance to connect with one another and begin building their SPW “village”. Building community sits at the heart of who we are at SPW, and it was wonderful to see those early connections forming so naturally.

The next chapter
This term also marks a significant transition, with the leadership of the school transferring to the very capable and passionate Sarah Noell. Sarah is known to many of you and brings a deep belief in placing relationships at the centre of her leadership. She has also been instrumental in shaping the teaching and learning at SPW, and I know the school is exceptionally well placed as she leads it into its next chapter.

Parent teaching and learning survey
Thank you to the many parents and caregivers who took the time to complete the Teaching and Learning Survey. It was affirming to hear that our community feels confident in the school’s strong commitment to explicit teaching in literacy and numeracy, values our rich arts offerings, and recognises the high calibre of teaching staff across the school. Given that Service is one of our core values, it was particularly pleasing to see appreciation for the school’s work in giving back through initiatives such as Service Learning and the SSLC. The survey also provided valuable guidance on areas for growth, including simplifying our communication channels to one or two clear sources of truth and continuing to build our in-class offerings for gifted students.

Dr Pamela Wall Centre
I am also delighted to see the ongoing progress of the Dr Pamela Wall Centre, which remains on schedule for its official opening during Term 2. I very much look forward to returning to the school for this momentous occasion and celebrating with you all.

Farewelling SPW
As I close my time as Principal, I want to say what an absolute pleasure and privilege it has been to serve this remarkable community. SPW is a place of deep care, strong relationships and purposeful learning, and it has been an honour to walk alongside students, staff, families and volunteers. Please know that SPW will always hold a very special place in my heart.

 Article shared by Principal, Helen Finlay.