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Unique programs on display

By Hailey Wight

May 18, 2026

Deaf Facility teacher Angela Joy with Guthrie Street Primary School student Max Dodsworth. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

This Education Week, the Showcase Your School theme will be used to shine a light on Guthrie Street Primary School’s unique Emotional Intelligence and Auslan programs.

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“We are the only primary school in Shepparton that has a deaf facility and teachers of the deaf that deliver a comprehensive Auslan lesson each week,” acting principal Ange Grumley said.

As well as their Auslan class, students also enjoy weekly EQ games and lessons that develop their emotional intelligence alongside their academic intelligence.

Every fortnight at assembly, the school celebrates EQ award winners from each class based on one of the EQ pillars of self awareness, self-control, building relationships, empathy and self-motivation.

In honour of Education Week, the students’ EQ and Auslan skills will be on display on Thursday, May 21 from 9am to 10am when the school opens its doors for parents, grandparents and carers.

“Students will have the opportunity to play their favourite EQ and Auslan activities and games with their class,” Mrs Grumley said.

“Grandparents, parents and special friends will be invited to participate.

“It is an opportunity to display our unique skills and talents,” she said.

Mrs Grumley said these programs had helped foster inclusivity.

“We pride ourselves on developing the whole child and being inclusive of people’s differences,” she said.

“Our golden rule at Guthrie Street is to treat others the way you would like to be treated.”

Student development is further supported through an outdoor classroom and a new wellbeing garden that’s under way.

Other activities at Guthrie Street range from fun runs and athletic development programs to school band and lunch clubs.

Through their open day morning, Education Week will help highlight the programs that make life at Guthrie Street Primary School unique and engaging.