Principal's News
Dear Parents and Carers,
Spring greetings to you all. It is amazing to think that in two weeks' time we will be breaking up for the end of term 3. This year seems to be flying by. As with every fortnight, there seems to be so much happening.
A big congratulations to Edward Carolan and Percy Hayes as they have competed so well today in the Polding Athletics Championships in Newcastle. Our students all enjoyed watching the live stream of their races and cheering them on as they were competing.
Sydney Excursion
Last week, our Stage 3 students, along with Mrs Hatton, Mrs Malllinson, Mr Hamblin, Mrs Schwager and Mrs Constable left for Sydney for their annual excursion.
They visited various attractions, including The Rocks, the Australian Museum, Sydney Aquarium, Taronga Zoo, and the Sydney Opera House. Later on, in the week, myself, Fr Joseph and Sr Geraldine joined the staff and students on their visit to Saint Mary MacKillop’s Place. Visiting Mary MacKillop Place in North Sydney is always a special time and it was a great time to share with our Stage 3 class. They all soaked up the experience and came away with a renewed knowledge of our school’s Charism. A major highlight for me was being allowed to take our students to stand around St Mary’s tomb. To learn about Saint Mary MacKillop, and to know the stories of how she helped children like ours from Wee Waa is one thing, but to know that you are standing in her presence is something entirely different.
Another major highlight from last week was being able to go and watch Parramatta Eels take on the Melbourne Storm at Commbank Stadium in Parramatta. The students loved the experience and a number of them made it onto TV during live crosses. A massive thank you needs to go out to the Parramatta Eels for providing us with tickets and to the donors who provided our school funds to purchase supporters' gear for the game.
Also a big thank you to the Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta who hosted our students last Thursday night and provided them with a place to rest and have dinner before the game. They also went above and beyond and supplied pizzas, nuggets and drinks for our students, so they all had a meal before walking to the stadium. It was a great night had by all!
NAPLAN
Today, Year 3 and 5 parents received a copy of their child’s 2022 NAPLAN results. It was so pleasing to see so many students achieving success.
As a diocese, we have seen increasing results from all schools. Our focused Literacy block and increased support in the classrooms are translating into increased growth in student achievement.
Student Progress Meetings
Just a reminder that bookings for Student Learning Progress meetings will close at midnight this Sunday, 11 September.
Please note that we cannot guarantee an appointment with your child's teacher if you attempt to make a booking through the school office after this time.
For further information on how to make bookings, please go to https://www.compass.education/guide#section-09
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the school office
Kindergarten Transition
This is just a reminder that we will be holding our first 2023 Kindergarten Transition session next Tuesday 13 September from 9 am - 11.00 am.
Students will be dropped off and picked up from St Joseph’s and parents/caregivers will need to sign their children in and out. We are very excited to work with our 2023 Transition class!
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the school office.
Infants Excursion
This year, we are excited to announce that our Infants Excursion will be to the Narrabri Crossing Theatre to see the live performance of Snow White and the Seven Cool Dudes, on Thursday 22 September.
All parents of Kindergarten and Stage 1 students would have received a notification on Compass to provide consent for this excursion.
The cost of this excursion is included in your child’s school fees.
Please see News and Notices for further information regarding consent and extra information.
Compass Payment Updates
Please note that as of today, Qkr! payments have closed. Uniform items can be made via the Compass App. You will find an additional menu under the canteen section of Compass. There you will be able to purchase, hats, ties and other school jumpers etc.
Have a great weekend.
God Bless,
Alistair Stewart
Principal