Principal's Report 

Principal’s Report

“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.” 

We are deeply saddened to acknowledge the passing of Pope Francis. He was our Holy Father, the leader of the Catholic Church, and a strong voice for love, kindness, and mercy in the world. 

Pope Francis taught us many important things. He reminded us to care for the poor, to take care of the earth, and to be kind to everyone—no matter who they are. He helped people feel God’s love and never stopped encouraging us to live with joy and compassion. 

Let’s continue to live out Pope Francis’s message by being kind, helping others, and trusting in God’s love. 

May Pope Francis rest in peace. 

The Easter Season – School Holidays 

Easter is a special time for many in our school community, marking a season of hope, renewal, and new beginnings. As we return to our classrooms, we carry with us the Easter message of kindness, compassion, and fresh starts — values we strive to live out every day at school. 

We’re looking forward to welcoming our students back next week for a term full of learning, creativity, and fun.  

Staff Professional Learning 

The staff at St Kilian’s Primary School, in collaboration with colleagues from Catholic Education Sandhurst (CES), engaged in three days of online professional development focused on collaborative learning. We were privileged to have Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath, a distinguished neuroscientist, leading our exploration of the Science of Learning. 

ANZAC Day 

Tomorrow, as Australians, we honour all the men and women who have participated in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations around the world, including the ANZACs who fought at Gallipoli in Turkey during World War I, as part of the ANZAC Day celebrations. Through dawn services and commemoration events throughout Australia and the world, we remember and give thanks to all the fallen who sacrificed their lives for the freedom and peace we experience today.  

Tomorrow during the midmorning service our school will be represented by Carter Hanna and Jack Riley. 

At our first assembly next Monday we will be acknowledging ANZAC Day with our own ceremony. 

School Photos 

School Photo Day will be held on Wednesday 30th April from 9 am.  On this day students need to wear full summer uniform - no sports uniform to be worn. 

Additional information is found within this newsletter. 

Uniform - Summer to Winter 

Students will transition into Winter uniform week two of term 2 (after School Photo Day). Please note hats are to be worn until the 30th of April, School Photo Day.  

I ask that all students wear the correct winter school uniform by the start of week four of the term. New and second-hand uniforms are available from the clothing store for those families who need to purchase them. I thank the parents for their support in ensuring all students are wearing the correct school uniform and not wearing jewellery and/or items of clothing that are not part of the school uniform. 

Uniform Purchases 

Please continue to purchase Uniform items via QKR, these will be filled on Thursdays.  

If you require a ‘try on’ opportunity, the uniform shop will be open Thursday mornings 8:30 am - 9 am 

School Cross Country 

On Friday 2nd May our students will be participating in the School Cross Country.  This whole school event will be held at Strathdale Park Ovals from approximately 9:00 am – 12:30 pm.  The event aims to encourage students to try their personal best, and to practise persistence and resilience. Our school cross country is also a qualification event for Grade 3-6 students for Division Cross Country. 

The top 8 -10 competitors in each Gr 3-6 age group will automatically qualify for the Division event to be held later in the term.  

Grade 4 Camp – Pioneer Settlement 

Grade 4 Camp is an exciting opportunity for students to learn about Australia's pioneering past through hands-on activities at the Pioneer Settlement Education Camp. The camp will take place from Monday 5th May to Tuesday 6th May, with students departing school at 8:00am and returning around 4:30pm. They will visit the Pioneer Settlement in Swan Hill, where they will take part in educational programs, activities, and enjoy meals and overnight accommodation at the Pioneer Settlement Lodges. Parents and carers are asked to give consent and ensure their child’s medical details, including any dietary needs or medications, are up to date on PAM. 

Mother’s Day  

For Mother's Day this year, we will celebrate our mothers and special friends on Friday 9th May.  

All mothers and special friends of the school are invited to join us for a coffee and croissant; toast and fruit will be available for our students.  

Mother’s Day Gifts  

Students will have the opportunity to purchase a gift for their mothers or special friends on Friday 9th May. Our Parents and Friends committee have organised a range of gifts for all students to purchase.  Students are asked to bring $5 to purchase a gift.  

Easter Egg Raffle 

A huge thank you to our school community and the Parents and Friends committee for a fabulous fun way to end term 1. 

Forty-two bundles of Easter goodness shared amongst our community.  

New Holiday Addition: Gaga Ball Pit! 

We’re excited to unveil our brand-new Gaga Ball Pit—installed ready for term 2! A huge thank you to the talented and dedicated parents who made this possible with their time, tools, and teamwork.  

Our staff took advantage of the beautiful sunshine this week by engaging in a game of Gaga Ball in our new pit. Mrs. Vaughan provided us with the basic rules of the game; however, we will need further practice opportunities to deepen our understanding and improve our skills. 

What’s Gaga Ball? 

It’s a fast-paced, high-energy game similar to dodgeball, played in a walled pit. Players use their hands to hit a soft ball, aiming to tag others below the knees. If you’re hit, you’re out. Last one standing wins! It’s quick, fun, and perfect for all ages. 

Let the games begin! 

2026 Foundation Enrolment Process 

Applications are called from parents wishing to enrol children in Foundation (Prep) and other classes at St Kilian’s Primary School for the 2026 school year.  

Enrolments open: Tuesday 22nd April 2025 and close: Friday 23rd May 2025 

Children may be enrolled to start school in February of the year in which they turn five, provided their birthday is on or before the 30th of April. 

Open Week School Tours 

Monday 5th May - Friday 9th May, 

Student Led Tours 9:15 am to 11:00 am 

or by appointment outside of these times. 

School Information Night 

Monday 6th May 2025 at 7:00 pm  

Multi-Purpose Room 

God Bless 

Kimberley McSweeney 

Principal