Principal's Message

Welcome to Term Three, Semester Two 

Welcome back to term 3. It is fantastic to see all of the students return keen to get on with the learning. This term we look forward to working towards achieving the goals set last semester and working together. We continue on the journey of providing the students with wonderful learning opportunities at St Anthony's. 

Celebrating Grandparents Day 

Last Friday, our school community came together for a truly memorable Grandparents’ Day. The morning commenced with a celebration of Mass, followed by a heartfelt tribute at the Possum Playground and a delightful morning tea on school grounds. The ABBA-themed performances, expertly coordinated by our Performing Arts teacher, Mrs McInness, showcased the remarkable talents of our students and were met with great enthusiasm and admiration.

We are deeply grateful for the presence of grandparents in our lives. Their wisdom, love, and unwavering support play an invaluable role in shaping our families and nurturing our children. We thank them sincerely for all they do.

I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to Mrs McInness, our dedicated staff, and the many parents who contributed to the success of this special event. Your commitment and hard work are truly appreciated.

A special thank you also goes to the Parents and Friends Committee, led by Sean Sheridan, and the many volunteers who prepared and served the morning tea—it was a warm and welcoming highlight of the day.

On a personal note, I am delighted to share that I have recently become a grandmother myself. I welcomed my beautiful grandson, Nelson, on 1 July. It is a joy and a privilege to now be part of this very special club.

Exciting Holiday Upgrades to Our School Grounds!

We’re thrilled to share some fantastic improvements made to our playgrounds over the school holidays!

• Possum Playground: Part of the deck has been replaced with brand-new timber, providing a safer and more enjoyable space for our students. We’ve also added a new sandpit, which has already become a favourite spot for creative play.
• Top Playground: We’ve addressed the gap in the fence that previously allowed balls to roll down the slope. This has now been securely closed off, much to the delight of our students—no more chasing runaway balls!
• We have also repaired the awning on the top playground, providing better shade and comfort during outdoor play.

The children have been absolutely thrilled with these upgrades, and it’s been wonderful to see them enjoying the new and improved spaces.

These upgrades have brought so much joy to our students, and we’re incredibly grateful to Sydney Catholic Schools for their generous support in making these improvements possible.

Staff Development Day: Strengthening Supportive and Safe Learning Environments

During our Staff Development Day on Monday 21 July, teachers participated in professional learning focused on behaviour management and student wellbeing. This work supports the implementation of the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers, particularly Standard 4: Create and maintain supportive and safe learning environments.

Botany Randwick Sydney Catholic Schools Inter-School Debating 2024

In Term Three students in Stage 3 will be participating in an Inter School Debating Competition. Debating is a fun, exciting and challenging co curricular activity, which involves 12 Catholic schools in the Botany Randwick Region.

Debating is about developing a team’s argument at the same time as rebutting the opposition’s case line (or main argument). It consists of three essential components: Manner, Matter and Method. Each speaker in the team is adjudicated on each of these three M’s - Manner, Matter and Method.

Students will be practicing debating in the classroom over the next few weeks. Encouraging critical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork, debating provides valuable skills that extend beyond the competition itself.

Congratulations to Michael Digges – A Papal Honour

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Michael Digges, grandfather of Pia, for receiving a prestigious papal honour from Pope Francis. Michael was one of four Sydney laypeople recognised for their outstanding contribution to the growth of the Catholic faith in Sydney.

Michael Digges, who serves as Executive Director of Administration and Finance for the Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney, was named a Knight of the Order of St Sylvester. This rare and distinguished honour is awarded to individuals who have used their professional expertise in service to the Church.

We are proud to celebrate this remarkable achievement within our school community and thank Michael for his inspiring example of faith and service.

SCS Eisteddfod Musical Theatre 

A huge congratulations to Aviva for her captivating performance of “When I Grow Up” from Matilda at the SCS Eisteddfod Musical Theatre Vocal section over the school holidays. Her passion and stage presence lit up the room, leaving the audience truly inspired. We’re so proud of this shining star for representing St Anthony’s with such heart, courage, and talent. 

Message from - Safe Streets to School: Randwick Council - crossing on Greville Street

Yours in Partnership

Anna Novak

Principal