Clifton Springs finalist in state award

CLIFTON Springs Primary School is one of three Victorian schools shortlisted as a finalist in the Victorian Education Excellence Awards’ outstanding inclusive education category.

The awards, which are in their 20th year, demonstrate how dedicated and innovative school staff are making a positive difference to their students and school communities.

The inclusion support team approach at Clifton Springs PS has supported inclusive practices in every classroom to improve students’ self-regulation, create a positive learning environment and provide important sensory motor skill support and development.

The school values of “Respect, Responsibility and Kindness” were created in collaboration with the whole school community.

Clifton Springs PS has also developed partnerships with external agencies to build a whole of community approach to supporting individual student wellbeing and learning, including their
Koorie students.

The school supports students to learn about Koorie perspectives and provides opportunities for them to be involved in developing school-wide initiatives and practices aimed at recognising and embracing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.

Clifton Springs PS principal Meg Parker said the school’s vision was “we are a safe and inclusive school where all students are curious, engaged and challenged to always do their best; together we nurture positive relationships, student voice and a lifelong love of learning”.

“There is a large wellbeing team which includes the operation and welfare leaders at each year level, the Salvation Army officers, a wellbeing officer, the inclusion team of integration aides, assistant principals and principal who lead the care and inclusion of all the students,” Ms Parker said.

“However this is a school where every person from the office staff, class and specialist teachers, technicians, out of hours school care and maintenance staff all care very deeply for the students and each other.

“This recognition as a finalist is an acknowledgement to each staff member as they all make sure each child at Clifton Springs PS shines.”

Clifton Springs PS will appear via a remote link during a live-streamed online award presentation ceremony on October 22 when the winners will be announced.