PRINCIPAL'S NEWS
NEWSLETTER May 27 2025
Miss Jaclyn is always busy keeping abreast of our socials and sharing the terrific things happening at our school.
Click below to see the terrific work our children did with our Indigenous Artist in Residence - Emma Stenhouse
Celebrating Culture Through Art: A Powerful Artist in Residence Programme with Emma Stenhouse
Last week, our school community had the privilege of engaging in a deeply meaningful and inspiring Artist in Residence programme facilitated by the incredibly talented Indigenous artist, Emma Stenhouse.
Over the course of three powerful days, students and staff came together to explore themes of storytelling, Country, and the vital importance of respecting culture and knowledge.
Working closely with Emma, along with Ms Louise and Ms Jaclyn, students delved into traditional Aboriginal art techniques, using natural materials to create stunning, heartfelt artworks. The experience fostered a wonderful connection to nature, encouraged engaging and powerful learning, and sparked important conversations about identity, heritage, and community.
The outcomes—both artistic and personal—were nothing short of incredible. This unforgettable experience also marked the beginning of Reconciliation Week, reinforcing our commitment to walking together towards a more respectful and inclusive future.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Emma for sharing her wisdom, creativity, and spirit with us. We look forward to welcoming Emma back in term 3 to continue her work with our students.
STAFFING NEWS...
I'm excited to share that Kate Lynn has taken a well-deserved break and is currently travelling through Africa. We wish Kate all the very best on her adventures and hope she enjoys every moment of this wonderful opportunity! Kate will return at the commencement of term three.
In Kate’s absence, Brittany Symons has stepped into the role of Acting Deputy, working closely alongside Michelle Cameron to support our team and students. Thank you Brittany for taking on this extra responsibility!
We’re excited to welcome Rosie O’Neil as she steps into Brittany’s teaching role. Rosie will be co-teaching Junior BL alongside Lauren, and we’re confident they’ll make a fantastic team. We're thrilled to have Rosie on board and look forward to the great work she and Lauren will do together.
Aoife O'Flynn is also commencing leave on Thursday May 29, and will return to school on Tuesday June 17. Matthew Holmgreen will be teaching Senior O on Thursday and Friday this week, and Kate Stapleton will take the class thereafter.
Matthew, Kate and Rosie have all worked as Casual Relief Teachers and are known to the children - we warmly welcome them.
We also welcome Amelie Neate to our team. Amelie is a pre-service teacher who is working with Abbey in Junior A. This past fortnight, Amelie has completed four days of her teaching-round and will commence a two-week block commencing Tuesday June 10. Welcome Amelie!
Congratulations... We’re thrilled to share some exciting news x2!!
👶💖 Julia Koot and her partner Jack are eagerly awaiting the arrival of their first little one. What a beautiful new chapter in their lives — huge congratulations to them both! 🎉🍼
👶💞 Bella Zacharioudakis and her partner Anthony, together with their daughter Anastasia are also preparing to welcome a new addition to their family — their second child is on the way! Another bundle of joy for this growing family. 🎈🧸 Huge congratulations to them as well!
💗 We’re sending all our love and best wishes to both families during this very special time. 🌟👨👩👧👦
SACRAMENT of CONFIRMATION
Please see the Education in Faith section of this newsletter for more information about important events and dates related to this Sacrament.
CROSS COUNTRY - a message from Ms Kirsti
REMINDER: Morning Drop-Off Procedures
We kindly ask that parents do not enter the school building before the start of the day. Where possible, please say goodbye to your child at the main yard entrance doors.
This helps us maintain a calm and safe environment as students begin their day.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
Cyber Safety Information Evening - Preston Police
SAVE THE DATE | Free Event
When: Tuesday 23rd June 2025
Time: 6-7pm
Location: St Joseph’s School. Northcote
Senior Constable Andy Moreton will attend St Joseph's to support our families with online Cyber Safety. The session will run for approximately one hour. The presentation will:
- Provide information on what young people SEE, SAY and DO online, challenges they might face and how to get help if something goes wrong.
- Highlight and promote safe and responsible online behaviours.
- Empower parents with the tools to be confident in managing the challenges associated with technology use.
- Focus on the challenges that can impact online safety for young people, as well as providing tools to take action
Please contact Bella Zachariouakis at: bzacharioudakis@sjnorthcote.catholic.edu.au if you have any questions.