Principal
Dr Helen Haines
Like many in our community, we have been saddened by the news of the injuries sustained by Helen Haines. Our thoughts and prayers are with Helen and her family during this difficult time. We also extend our support to her dedicated team in the Wangaratta office. When they visited our school last Friday, the respect they shared for one another was clearly evident.
During her visit, Helen presented the school with three new flags: the Australian Flag, the Aboriginal Flag, and the Torres Strait Islander Flag.
Helen spoke with our Year 5/6 students about the importance of symbols that represent our nation and its people. She shared a message of pride, service, and leadership, reminding us that we all have a role to play in helping others become the very best they can be.
As a school leader, Helen's words have stayed with me. I will continue to reflect on her message and draw upon it to inspire our students as they grow into thoughtful and responsible members of our community.
150 Year Anniversary Mass
WHEN: Sunday 25th October
TIME: 2pm
WHERE: St Joseph's church
WHO: All families, staff and parishioners past and present
I look forward to seeing many families on Sunday. We welcome Bishop Rene and Bishop Les, visiting religious, past and current parishioners.
150 years is AMAZING! We have a beautiful physical church at our doorstep, but more importantly, the people within our parish community. The CHURCH is the people.
Class Structures & Placements 2027
This is an important process every year in every school. Our teachers spend many hours as professionals looking at classes for the following year.
Factors to be considered by the school:
- Children's learning
- Student input (5 students they work well with)
- Support-Human and financial resources
- Social and emotional needs
- Balanced classes- academic level, social development, behaviour
- Class structures (straight or composite classes)
- Ability to work independently
- Previous class placement (e.g. had the same teacher for two years)
- Recommendations from external providers
- Information from parent meetings
We acknowledge that some transitions can be challenging. Our role is to support children and share the skills they need for a positive experience.
I will share our policy on PAM messages.
Screens, Space and your family
There will be a number of information sheets available during Term 4. These may assist you and your family. Enjoy the reading.
Calendar of Events
Please keep an eye on this as you plan your end of year. The calendar on PAM should mirror most of the dates.
School Bus Program- Student Travel System
The Department is introducing a new student travel system. In late September you will receive an email from the Department of Education.
We have a wonderful opportunity for all families to purchase a St Joseph's cook book. Trust me, there are many delicious recipes in this book. All money raised will go towards our school kitchen. Staff and parents have produced an amazing resource. From family favourites to exotic dishes. I may need to explore some of these recipes to improve my lack of cooking skills.
Enrolments
We are experiencing a rise in ENROLMENTS enquiries for 2027 which is very positive. Enrolments remain OPEN in the majority of year levels for 2026. At the start of the year we had 406 students, currently 421, and 2027 is 448.
If you have a child starting in 2027, PLEASE ENROL NOW. Class placement discussions are taking place now.
School Gates
Each morning and afternoon after our duty we lock these gates. Sorry if we lock you in. Of a morning about 9:00am and in afternoon about 3:45pm. You can get out via the main office.
All the best for the weekend.
David Keenan (Principal)