Dear Families,

What a truly uplifting Catholic Education Week we have had! It has been a time of reflection, celebration, and shared faith, bringing our school community together in a beautiful way.

One of the highlights of the week was the whole-school incursion with the inspiring songwriter and performer, Andrew Chinn. His presence filled our halls with joy and faith as students sang so beautifully, their voices blending in harmony with deep reverence and enthusiasm. Seeing our students embrace the spirit of music and faith was a testament to the strong, vibrant culture we cherish at St Agatha's. Please click on the image to hear some glorious singing!

Additionally, our school was proudly represented at the Catholic Education Week Mass

at St Francis Xavier Catholic College in Beaconsfield. Our school captains and faith leaders, along with Mrs Gillian Burke, Mrs Meegan Blackney, and myself, made the journey to join this sacred gathering. The Mass, celebrated by Bishop Greg alongside priests from across the diocese, was a powerful reminder of the unity that Catholic education fosters. It was heartening to see each of the diocesan schools present, coming together in faith.

A particularly moving moment was when four school choirs united in song, creating a breathtakingly beautiful and spiritually uplifting atmosphere. The shared voices resonated through the space, filling hearts with joy and reflection.

Following the Mass, we witnessed a special award ceremony, where we were thrilled to congratulate Phoenix Oaks, year 6 student, on receiving the Sr Mildred rsj and Sr Marcella rsj Catholic Education Award—a remarkable achievement that speaks to dedication and excellence within our Catholic education community. The following words were used to describe why Phoenix won this award.

Phoenix approaches every challenge with courage and determination, always striving to be his best. His enthusiasm for learning and willingness to step outside his comfort zone inspire those around him.

A dedicated member of the Church, Phoenix serves on the altar at school Masses and attends services with his family at both St Agatha’s and St Kevin's. His faith is not just something he practices but something he lives—through his kindness, gratitude, and willingness to help others.

Phoenix is a leader in the truest sense. He stands up for what is right, looks out for his peers, and always offers a helping hand. His integrity, trustworthiness, and strong sense of community make him a role model for others.

For his unwavering hope, service, and leadership, we proudly recognise Phoenix as a deserving recipient of the Sr Mildred rsj and Sr Marcella rsj Catholic Education Award.

God’s Love in Action – Photo Competition Winners

One of the special initiatives during Catholic Education Week was our "God’s Love in Action" Photo Competition, inspired by Luke 4:16–21. This competition invited students from Foundation to Year 6, along with staff, parents, and parish members, to capture a moment that reflects God’s love at work in the world around us.

We were truly moved by the heartfelt and inspiring entries submitted, showcasing acts of kindness, faith, and community spirit. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated and shared their vision of God’s love.

Congratulations to our winners, who were presented at Assembly with a certificate and prize: -

Open Section: Mrs Mel Lindsay
Junior Section - Elijah Chandy
Middle Section - Logan Gray
Senior Section - Sophia Wijaya & Emrick (Yr6)/Alexia Bhoobun(Yr1)

Your beautiful images serve as a reminder of the ways in which God’s love shines through in our daily lives.

Staffing Updates

Congratulations to Mrs Caitlin Burke who is expecting her third baby. Mrs Burke will leave to go on Parental Leave in early Term 3. Miss Keely Deighton, who has is currently completing a teaching placement will take up the position of teacher in 3B.

Congratulations to Jamie Magdziarz who is getting married on Friday!

Congratulations to Mrs Ginelle Lazarus who is expecting her first baby! Mrs Lazarus will also leave early Term 3 to begin her parental leave. We welcome Miss Gabby Corrone who will take up the position of 5L teacher.

Mrs Sievers has commenced her parental leave and we can't wait to find out when her baby girl arrives any day now! I will keep you posted.

On a sadder note, we wish Mrs Rebecca Burrows all the very best as she has recently resigned from her position as teacher in 3B and 6C. Unfortunately, Mrs Burrows is suffering from ill health and she needs to be at home to rest and focus on her health. We will keep her in our prayers and hope that when she has recovered she will be able to return to St Agatha's!

Mrs Bianca Harris also resigned earlier this term. Mrs Harris had been on Long Service Leave from the beginning of the year to spend time with her family in India. We wish Mrs Harris all the very best in her future endeavors and thank her for the tremendous work she did at St Agatha's over the past eleven years.

Building Project Update

As we eagerly anticipate the completion of our new building, I want to update you on its progress. While we had hoped to move in sooner, significant delays mean that our transition will now take place closer to the end of Term 2. Though unexpected, I can assure you that the project is coming together beautifully, and every detail is shaping up to be truly impressive.

I appreciate everyone’s patience and excitement as we wait for this fantastic new space to be completed. It will be well worth the wait, providing wonderful new opportunities for learning and engagement.

A Message of Peace from Pope Leo XIV

In a world that often feels divided, Pope Leo XIV has offered a powerful message of unity and peace. In his first address as pontiff, he called upon all people to build bridges through dialogue and encounter, reminding us that we are one people, always striving for peace.

His words resonate deeply with the values we uphold at St Agatha’s: "Help us, one and all, to build bridges through dialogue and encounter, joining together as one people, always at peace." — Pope Leo XIV

As we reflect on Catholic Education Week and the many ways we come together as a community, let us take inspiration from Pope Leo XIV’s message and continue to foster kindness, understanding, and faith in all that we do.

Thank you for your ongoing support and may the spirit of Catholic Education Week continue to inspire us all.

Wishing you joy and blessings,

Michelle Bruitzman

Principal, St Agatha’s Catholic Primary School

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