Parent Involvement


 

At Donvale Primary School, we value strong partnerships between home and school. Parent involvement plays an important role in building a connected, supportive community where children thrive.

 

There are many ways for parents and carers to be involved — whether through volunteering, social events, classroom support or school leadership. Families are welcome to contribute in ways that suit their time, interests and availability.

Parents & Friends Association (PFA)

The Parents & Friends Association (PFA) is a welcoming group of volunteer parents who work together to strengthen connections between families, staff, students and the wider school community.

 

The PFA supports the school by organising a range of social and fundraising events throughout the year, including:

  • Mother’s Day and Father’s Day stalls

  • welcome morning teas for new families

  • cake stalls and raffles

  • Mothers’ Day and Fathers’ Day celebrations
  • second-hand uniform sales

  • Tears, Tissues and Tea for parents on the first day of Prep

Above all, the PFA is an inclusive, welcoming, and fun social organisation run by parents for all parents. It aims to contribute to the well-being of parents and students by celebrating the wealth of diversity, interests, and knowledge that every parent brings, in order to enrich the school environment.

 

The PFA is open to all parents of Donvale Primary School students. Meetings are held once per term in a relaxed setting, often over a cup of tea. Parents can meet other parents and make new friends and connections by participating in the activities of the PFA and is also a great opportunity for parents to network and support each other.

 

If you would like to share your talents or your story, you are more than welcome to help us organise events. The PFA meet once a term over a nice hot cup of tea. If you are interested in joining this wonderful group of volunteers please contact the school office or join our WhatsApp group using the link below.

 

Parents interested in joining the PFA can contact the school office or join the PFA WhatsApp group using the link below:
https://chat.whatsapp.com/0dtyKmQITwuJcJgz4OK8tQ

 

Parent Representatives and Community Events

In addition to the PFA, parent representatives help organise and support a range of valued school events and initiatives, including:

  • social events for families

  • classroom and whole-school activities

  • canteen support

  • the end-of-year concert and celebrations

Parents also play a special role in supporting milestone moments such as:

  • graduation celebrations for Year 6 students

  • community events such as Footy Day lunches

  • book fair

These opportunities help strengthen relationships across the school and create a warm, welcoming environment for students and families.

Donvale Dads

Donvale Dads is a parent-led initiative that brings students together was fathers and father figures together once per term. Inspired by the success of The Fathering Project, Donvale Dads provides opportunities for connection, conversation and involvement in school life.

 

These gatherings support positive role modelling, strengthen relationships and encourage male carers to engage with the school community in meaningful ways.

 

Those keen to get invovled should email beau.robertson@education.vic.gov.au

 

Helping in the Classroom

Parents and carers are encouraged to support learning by volunteering in classrooms and on excursions, particularly in the Junior School.

 

Parent helpers may assist across a range of curriculum areas and activities. Each year, a training session is provided to ensure volunteers feel confident and supported in their role.

 

To volunteer at the school, parents and carers are required to hold a current Working With Children Check. You can apply for one here Working With Childrens Check Application.

School Council

Parents also have the opportunity to be involved in school governance through School Council. Parent members work alongside staff and community representatives to help guide the strategic direction of the school.

 

Serving on School Council provides parents with an opportunity to contribute skills, share perspectives and support decisions that shape school life at Donvale Primary School.

Working Together

Whether through volunteering, leadership, or simply attending events, parent involvement at Donvale Primary School is valued and appreciated. Every contribution, big or small, helps strengthen our community and support positive outcomes for students.

 

Families interested in getting involved are encouraged to contact the school office to learn more about available opportunities.