August 25th, 2026Daylesford Foundation
This August represents the third anniversary of the Schools Student Support project, initiated by The Daylesford Foundation in 2023 to work with the Hepburn Shire school community to reach those, who through no fault of their own, cannot afford basic school necessities.
The program is one which solves problems and removes barriers for students quickly and quietly. Each school manages its own funding allocation, and when that bucket of money is spent, a report is required and if everything is in order, the funding is replenished.
This simple, trusted process ensures instant solutions for situations that can otherwise be awkward or stressful for students and families, allowing help to be given by the school directly with dignity and without delay.
It was agreed this funding arrangement would continue.
The Daylesford Foundation founder Jim Foster said the gathering of the principals from all of the schools in one room was a rare event.
“It creates the opportunity to bring our school community together to share ideas on how we might improve delivery of assistance and discuss how collectively, we might improve the lives of those around us,” Jim said.
“And while the funding of learning resources such as digital reading pens, early intervention literacy programs, along with breakfasts, lunches, swimming, and camps programs was acknowledged as being extremely important, a significant theme came out of the meeting.
“That theme, which was across all schools, was the wellbeing of students and the increased need for assistance with counselling, testing, evaluations and diagnosis.
Jim said it was apparent that many families just could not afford the cost and consequently risked their child not reaching their full potential. The foundation has encouraged further dialogue to address the issue.
“A nice aside was the collective support in the room when a principal relayed her story of struggling to get transport for the students. The cost of the bus was $380 but the school could not afford it.
“We sat back and happily watched as those in the room set about offering options and solutions.
“It was wonderful to have so many people in the room sharing their ideas and communicating with their peers. We really thank them all for making the time to take part.”
Jim said the 13 schools in the shire had shared over $360,000 since the program commenced in 2023.
“To our donors, volunteers, and our school community our heartfelt thanks for supporting an initiative which really changes young lives. If you want to get involved and help The Daylesford Foundation to help our community, please consider donating via the website at www.thedaylesfordfoundation.org.au
“We would love to hear from you.”
Above, principals from Daylesford, Clunes, St Michael’s, Hepburn, Creswick North and Dharma primary schools and The Daylesford Foundation members
Words: Donna Kelly | Image: Contributed
