Next week, three generations of the same family will walk through the gates of Monbulk Primary School together, a rare and special moment for the tight-knit community.
Tiffany Owen-Taylor first walked through those gates in 1978 as a Grade 3 student after her family moved to the area, nearly two decades later, her son Ashley James McKay started prep there in 1995. and now, her grandson, Charlie is about to follow in their footsteps.
Ms Owen-Taylor said seeing a third generation begin at Monbulk Primary felt “lovely” and was something she was immensely proud of.
“Monbulk is such a beautiful place and it was such a lovely school,” she said.
“When my son chose Monbulk for Charlie, I was wrapped, three generations doesn’t happen very often, and I’m proud as punch.”
She said explaining the family connection to her grandson was a special moment.
“I explained it all to him and he just lifted his eyes and went, ‘Oh,’ like he was computing it,” she said.
“Then he asked if I was going to be there and if I’d pick him up from school some days – of course I am.”
Charlie is already looking forward to starting school, particularly seeing his buddy, exploring his classroom and playing on the playgrounds.
“He told me there’s not just one playground but two, and he’s especially excited about the wooden one,” Ms Owen-Taylor said.
“He’s also very excited that they have chickens to look after.”
Ms Owen-Taylor said what stood out to her the most during her time at the school was the sense of safety and community.
“I just felt safe,” she said.
“Everyone looked out for each other. If there was ever a problem walking home from school, or someone was late, people would take care of you, it was a really strong community.”
She said that feeling was something she hoped her grandson would also experience.
“Monbulk is a great little community that looks after everyone,” she said.
“That’s what I loved about it, and that’s what I hope Charlie gets out of it too.”
Ms Owen-Taylor said she was looking forward to seeing her grandson learn new things, settle into school life and come home eager to share stories from his day.
“I’m excited about him learning, having excursions, and just sitting down with him when I pick him up and hearing all about his day,” she said.
As Charlie prepares to start school, Ms Owen-Taylor said she hoped Monbulk Primary would continue to focus not just on learning, but on kindness and respect.
“I hope they teach kids how to treat each other well, how to be kind, how to speak up and how to walk away from bullying,” she said.
“That’s just as important as the ABCs.”
With three generations now linked to the same school, Ms Owen-Taylor said she felt grateful that her family’s connection to Monbulk Primary was continuing.
“I loved primary school and I had great teachers,” she said.
“I’m really happy that Ashley and his wife have chosen this school for Charlie, and I hope he has the same fond memories and friendships that I did.”
