News from 

our Principal 

Welcome Back to Term 2!

I hope this message finds you well and filled with excitement for the start of another engaging term here at Our Lady of Fatima. As we embark on this new term together, I extend a warm welcome back to all our parents and families.

Term 1 was a whirlwind of learning, growth, and some enriching experiences for our students. We saw them blossom academically, socially, and emotionally, thanks to your support and our partnership. As we enter Term 2, we look forward to continuing this journey with you and your children.

In the upcoming term, we have many exciting activities, projects, and events lined up that promise to enrich your child's educational journey. A snapshot of what to look forward to:

• Staff Development Day - all staff will be working through a NESA approved ACU Reading Course to build on their knowledge and understanding of how we teach students to read.
• Mother’s Day craft afternoon, stall and Bunnings experience
• Mother's Day and Our Lady of Fatima Feast Day Mass and Morning Tea
• Interschool Sport- Soccer and Tag for Stage 2 and 3 students
• Cross Country- Eastern Creek
• Year 6 Sacrament of Confirmation
• Dance, Drama and Vocal Ensemble Eisteddfod Groups
• Various Incursions + Excursions 
• Athletics Carnival
• Kindergarten Enrolments for 2025 finalised 
• Fatima Friends for pre-schoolers and families

There will be no shortage of opportunities for your child to explore, learn, be curious and thrive. As always, the dedicated team of educators at OLF are here to support you and your child every step of the way. Should you have any questions, concerns, or ideas you'd like to share, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

Here's to a fantastic Term 2 filled with growth, learning, and endless possibilities!

My Mother’s Day Reflection…..

When my children were young, my husband worked long hours. I was at home in the evening, having taught through the day, doing the after-school activities and routine, mealtime, bath, homework, reading and bedtime before I settled in to prepare for the next day. I sat with our children while they ate, talking about the events of the day and guiding them along. Routines were tight, predictable ... and tiring. Setting boundaries and sticking to them means you will undoubtedly come into conflict with your children. It’s hard – really hard sometimes. 

I know that many of you are doing exactly the same thing. What I did was not unique and I offer my love, praise and support to all of you. Some days are overwhelming and you are 'wonderfolk' – parents and carers doing your best to grow your children. That’s where 'the tribe' can help. Your tribe might be your mother, grandmother, friend, child’s teacher, GP, counsellor ... anyone you trust who provides good and safe advice. 

My husband and I look back now as our children have reached adulthood and are making decisions for themselves. We are proud of the young people they have become and the values they live daily. We relish times when we are all at the table together and so thankful for the family we belong to who has helped shape us all.

I write this as I reflect on Mother’s Day. My own mother was the strongest woman I know. Tenderly firm, faith-filled, hard working and lovingly fair. Always ready to listen with a fair and open heart. She was always ready with the kettle on the boil and a cup of tea poured. She was the leader of my tribe. To my Mum, thank you. I miss you enormously. You passed on to me the gift of mothering. Your grandchildren thank you for it and now my grandchildren will be able to thank you for it.

As we approach Mother’s Day let us acknowledge all mothers, grandmother’s, special women in our lives who have made a difference and may not be still with us. For many of us, our mothers are our first teachers, caregivers, and role models. They are the ones who instill in us values of kindness, compassion, resilience, and strength. They are our pillars of support, offering comfort during difficult times and celebrating our triumphs with pride. Let us pray as a community, with gratitude and thanks for their presence in our life and the gifts they shared with love.

May you all experience the joy of God our Father and Our Lady of Fatima who loves us tenderly and unconditionally. Wishing you all a very Happy Mother’s day on Sunday!

I look forward to seeing many of you on Monday 13th May at Mass 9:00am to celebrate all those special women and honour our school’s patron saint, Our Lady of Fatima, on her feast day!

Mrs Sue Clay | Principal