From the AP, REC & IS
PBL - Positive Behaviours for Learning
As we approach the term's end, I am so proud to announce the Padua House as the winners of the PBL Term 4 Award!
They had a wonderful time Monday afternoon celebrating.
As you can see from the photo the Padua House has worked on their positive behaviour from the first day they all walked in the school gates this term.
Although, I have never seen so many tokens in all house groups. I'd like to thank all the students for their unreal efforts in following our PBL expectations.
St Clare's Taste of Highschool day
At the St Clares Taster day, each of us got to experience a collection of amazing subjects such as drama, food technology, science, textiles, PE and maths. We got to meet new people and new teachers. It was truly amazing. The subjects that we got to participate in gave us a taste of what St Clare's will be like. Overall our time there was very enjoyable and we are all super excited to go back for Year 7 in 2027. By Chloe, Mabel, Annabel, Frances, Seraphina and Scarlett
Wellbeing: UR STRONG: Holiday parties!
Many of us are looking forward to spending time with our extended family and friends during this time of the year.
But here’s what we often forget…
Holiday events can be quite overwhelming for our children.
I remember how a few years ago, during a hectic holiday gathering, a friends son was so overwhelmed that I spent most of the party comforting him as he was tired and intolerant.
Children thrive on structure and routine, it would be good to make sure to prepare them for the holiday events. A “Pre-Event Debrief” is something you could introduce to talk about what’s about to come.
The pre-event debrief can be a great way to create a calm space before the festivities. It will give you time to set expectations with your kids, share the plan, and address any questions.
It might sound like:“We’ll be visiting Uncle Matt’s house on Saturday. We’ll leave after breakfast and then spend the afternoon with the whole family. You’ll see your grandma and grandpa and all of your cousins will be there too! Let’s come up with a plan when you feel like you need a break from the big crowd…”
You can also agree on a “sign” your child can give you when they feel overwhelmed at the party – like squeezing your hand twice, for example.
This debrief is also a great time to set expectations around behavior, consumption of sweets, or sharing toys.
This week’s guide is a script to show you what this conversation could sound like.
2026 - Specialist Days
Sport Days - Monday & Friday - Mr O'Malley (Mon)
Spanish - Monday - Mrs Spindel
Library - Tuesday/Thursday Mornings - Mrs Temple
Visual Art - Tuesday - Mrs Traylen
Amadeus (Yrs 3-6) - Wednesday - Specialist Tutors
Music - Thursday & Friday Mornings - Mrs McInness
Well Wishes...
As the school year draws to a close, I wish all our parents and carers a truly happy and holy Christmas. This time of year offers a wonderful opportunity to pause and reflect. May your holiday break be a safe and truly restful period, filled with joy, cherished moments, and quality time spent with your family and friends.
Thank you for your continued support throughout the year; For those who are leaving the STA community, please continue to carry the essence of 'Love and Service' with you. Your unique light has illuminated our halls and classrooms, and I have every confidence that you will continue to shine brightly wherever you may go. Cherish the memories you have made here, embrace the future, and let the spirit of St Anthony guide you always.
I am looking forward to seeing you all next year!
Blessings,
Marie Iorfino
Assistant Principal
From the REC
Farewell & Thanksgiving Mass
Last week we celebrated a very special milestone as our Year 6 students completed their primary school journey. We are so proud of their achievements, the friendships they have built, and the wonderful contributions they have made to St Anthony’s.
A heartfelt thank you to Fr Laurie for celebrating Mass with us on this important occasion. The liturgy was a beautiful way to mark the end of this chapter and to bless our students as they prepare for the exciting adventures of high school.
We congratulate our Year 6 students and wish them every success, happiness, and growth in the years ahead. May they continue to shine brightly and carry the spirit of St Anthony’s with them always.
Christmas Toy Drive
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our families who donated toys to St Vincent de Paul this Advent season. Your kindness and generosity have brought joy to children in need and truly reflect the spirit of giving at Christmas.
Together, we have shared love and hope with our wider community, a beautiful reminder of what it means to live our faith.
Advent & Christmas
As we journey through Advent, we prepare our hearts with hope, peace, joy, and love for the coming of Christ. Advent reminds us to pause, reflect, and welcome the light of Jesus into our lives.
At Christmas, we rejoice together in the gift of God’s love made visible in the birth of Jesus. May this season bring blessings to our families and community, filling us with faith and joy as we celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.
In Solidarity and Prayer
Lord, today we join our prayers with the wider Church for those gravely impacted by the violent attack at Bondi Beach,
For all the victims,
For the injured,
For the first responders,
And for all families now carrying unimaginable sorrow.
May the God of compassion surround them with comfort, healing and peace.
Lord Jesus, bring light where there is darkness, unity where there is fear, and hope where hearts are broken.
We make this prayer in Your Holy name.
Amen.
In moments like this, we cling to the promises of Scripture:
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5)
'Take Courage! I have overcome the world.' (Jn 16:33)
As we come to the end of a wonderful year at St Anthony’s, I would like to thank our students, families, and staff for the joy, faith, and community spirit you bring to our school.
May the peace and hope of Advent prepare our hearts, and may the celebration of Christmas fill your homes with love and happiness.
Wishing you all a blessed Christmas and a joyful New Year.
Giselle Stinson
Religious Education Coordinator
Keep Reading and Writing Over the Holidays!
The school holidays are a wonderful time to rest, play and spend time with family and friends. But did you know that keeping up with reading and writing during the break can make your return to school even more exciting?
- Reading opens doors to adventure: Whether it’s a story about magical lands, animals, or real-life heroes, books can take you anywhere - even while you’re sitting at home. Just 10 minutes a day can spark your imagination and grow your vocabulary.
- Writing keeps your creativity flowing: Try keeping a holiday journal, writing postcards to relatives or inventing your own stories. Writing helps you remember special moments and share them with others.
Stay sharp for the new term: Regular reading and writing keep your brain active, so you’ll feel confident and ready when school starts again.
So, pack a book in your holiday bag or grab a notebook and pen when you have a quiet moment. Reading and writing aren’t just schoolwork - they’re fun ways to explore, dream and express yourself.
Happy holidays and happy reading!
Working together for our students,
Leanna Langlands
Instructional Specialist