At Maramba Primary School, we know that schools are not just islands in the community. As a school, we are uniquely placed to play a significant role in the community; our children are part of the community and we give to as well as receive from the community – as in a symbiotic relationship. We strive to build genuine school/family relationships based on effective communication, mutual trust and respect in support of the school’s vision and values. It is through developing these strong, effective parent and carer partnerships with a focus on student learning and wellbeing will increase the opportunities for students to reach their full potential.
Beyond our school gates, we continually work hard to develop relationships with the local community, business, government, community organisations and other education providers. We are proud of the partnerships we have formed so far:
- Edumazing – Education and Wellbeing consultancy
- The University of Melbourne - UMNOS
- Deakin University
- Monash College
- Musical Futures Australia
- Beleza Scholars
We recognise the importance of these partnerships as they strengthen the capacity of our school and families to support our students’ learning, while continuing to improve student outcomes.
Getting Involved
At Maramba, we know that strong parent and carer involvement in their child’s school contributes to improved student learning, health and wellbeing.
We always welcome the support of our parents, carers and community members in a multitude of ways. Wherever your skills and passion lay or even if it is just about giving some time to support our students and the school there are a multitude of ways you can do this.
Please note that all volunteers and helpers require a Working With Children Check for any level of support with the school.
- Reading partners from our Foundation to Year 3 students - having additional adults to read with in school on a regular basis at a time when learning to read is the most crucial to literacy development is invaluable.
- Helping our teachers and students on Educational visits during the year.
- Lending a hand at one or more of our annual school community events such as the Colour Run, School Fete, Twilight Sports, Year 6 Graduation Committee to name a few.
- Building a stronger community and keeping our school looking great better by being involved in a school working bee.
- Being involved in our FOM committee, which made up of parent and community volunteers. They do a brilliant job at supporting the school community in a range of ways from running the canteen to organising fundraising events and working bees. Without their valuable contribution, many of the programs around the school for all students would not be possible.
- Become a member of our School Council, who work with the Principal and the school community to continue to provide the best education for our students.
If you are interested in lending your support, please come and let us know at the office!
Supporting the Community
Who are Connections?
Connections UnitingCare is a community organisation with a long and proud history of supporting marginalised and disadvantaged children, young people and families.
They have a vision of children and young people living in safe and strong families within socially inclusive communities. We seek to create opportunities and build resilience to break the cycle of disadvantage and vulnerability through collaboration.
Connection’s programs promote the health and wellbeing of children and their families, encourage safe and positive relationships, facilitate the development of support networks and promote optimal childhood development.
Connections regularly run a program called Seasons for Growth for a number of years across schools in Casey, Cardinia and Greater Dandenong. Starting in 2016, the program was offered to Maramba Primary School children in Years 3 and 4 and was facilitated during school time at the school.
The group is for children who have had changes occur in their families through death, separation, divorce or related circumstances (i.e. migration).
This program is facilitated in small groups (6-8 children) and is based on research that highlights the importance of social support and the need to practise new skills to cope effectively with change and loss. The program focuses on issues such as self-esteem, managing feelings, problem solving, decision-making, effective communication and support networks.
Seasons for Growth runs for eight weeks and each session is for one hour. The program concludes with a ‘Celebration’ session. The group meets for two further one off sessions in the following two terms.