Key DPS Information


Welcome to Donvale

Donvale Primary School is a place where children feel safe, valued, challenged and inspire. It's a place where learning is meaningful, friendships are strong, and community matters...a place where every child can thrive.

 

Nestled in the quiet, leafy surrounds of the City of Manningham, Donvale Primary School has proudly served its community for more than 60 years. Set within a stunning natural landscape, our school features expansive grounds, multiple play spaces, shaded areas and modern, spacious facilities that inspire children to learn and grow.

Our Learning Environment

Our classrooms are designed for collaboration, creativity and comfort. Large double classrooms in P–4 allow for flexible, interactive teaching and plenty of room for students to work together. Our Senior School building offers a variety of classrooms and breakout spaces that support collaborative teaching and targeted learning.

Specialised teaching spaces further enrich our environment, including:

  • Performing Arts and Visual Arts rooms
  • A dedicated STEM room and fully equipped Science Lab
  • A Mandarin (LOTE) learning space
  • A dedicated gymnasium and abundant outdoor areas for Health and Physical Education
  • A well-resourced Library
  • Modern ICT facilities with interactive SMART Boards, notebooks and iPads

Students also enjoy extensive outdoor areas with playgrounds, open green space, passive seating and quiet zones—ensuring every child has a place to learn, play and thrive.

 

Our Students and Staff

Donvale Primary School welcomes around 285 students. Our dedicated and skilled staff include a Principal, Assistant Principal, Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader, Disability Inclusion Leader, 13 Classroom Teachers, 6 Specialist Teachers (Physical Education, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, STEM, Mandarin – LOTE), 5 Education Support staff and 2 Administrative staff. Together, we provide high-quality education in a nurturing environment.

 

Teaching and Learning Excellence

We are committed to continuous improvement and excellence in teaching and learning. Our approach includes:

  • Explicit teaching across all curriculum areas
  • Differentiated learning that meets academic, social and emotional needs
  • A structured, caring environment that supports every child
  • Evidence-based intervention such as MiniLit and MacqLit
  • Enrichment programs including Future Problem Solvers, Maths Olympiad and the Victorian High Abilities Program

Students also enjoy a wide range of extra-curricular and extension opportunities, including:

  • Biennial School Productions
  • Biennial Writers’ Festival
  • Choirs, bands and instrumental music
  • Sporting opportunities such as Hoop Time, gymnastics, bike education, swimming, athletics and interschool sport
  • Camps, excursions and cultural events
  • Values and resilience programs
  • A variety of lunchtime clubs

We are proud of our comprehensive and innovative curriculum that fosters curiosity, challenge and high achievement.

 

Our Values and Wellbeing Commitment

Our values—Respect, Responsibility, Resilience, Gratitude and Compassion—are embedded in all aspects of school life. Supported by our School Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) framework, we foster a safe, inclusive and positive culture.

 

In 2026, we will launch Donvale Democracy, expanding student voice and giving children genuine opportunities to share ideas, contribute to decisions and lead positive change.

Our Mental Health in Primary Schools Leader works with students, staff and families to strengthen whole-school wellbeing practices. Our Disability Inclusion Leader supports staff and families to meet the needs of students requiring additional support.

 

Community Partnerships and Parent Engagement

Donvale PS is known for its warm, welcoming and vibrant community spirit. We believe strong partnerships between home and school create the best conditions for student success. We connect with families through Compass and Seesaw, and encourage parent involvement in classroom learning, school events, excursions, School Council and the Parents Association.

Our community comes together through events such as the Welcome Back BBQ, whole-school transition programs, “Step Into Prep,” the Writers’ Festival and School Production. Partnerships with Uniting and the Lions Club further enrich support and opportunities for families.

 

Out of Hours School Care

A highly successful Out of Hours School Care (OHSC) program operates daily, offering flexibility and support for families.