Principal's Message

Principal Message Week 6 - Term 3
It has been an action-packed and very rewarding term so far at St Columba’s. The level of student engagement across so many areas of school life has been outstanding and it is a joy to see the energy, enthusiasm and growth of our children.
Science Week was a marvellous celebration of curiosity and discovery. The children were thoroughly engaged in the range of activities and experiments, and it was great to see their excitement as young scientists in action. Book Week was also a wonderful time, with an incredible response from both children and families to the activities planned. The energy we see in our students as readers is inspiring. We have always been strong readers at St Columba’s, but we can really see the impact of the work we have been doing with phonics and reading. The enthusiasm our children are showing towards books, borrowing them, sharing them, and immersing themselves in literature, is a testament to the culture of reading we are building together.
Beyond the classroom, the take-up of extra-curricular activities this term has been exceptional. Robotics and electronics after school have been thriving, with students deeply engaged in hands-on, problem-solving learning experiences. Basketball, Running Club, instrumental music and now karate also highlight the many ways families are embracing opportunities for their children to explore new interests and develop their talents. It is wonderful to see such strong participation, which is helping our children build confidence, persistence and teamwork skills.
Our school musical is now well into rehearsal mode and every class has learned their songs and movement. It is exciting to see the characters coming to life and to watch our Year 5/6 students really stepping into their leadership roles. Participating in a musical brings so many benefits: children collaborate as part of a group, develop resilience, grow in confidence and experience the joy of expressing themselves creatively. Together, these opportunities, whether sporting, academic, or artistic, are central to our commitment to developing the whole child.
Physical activity is a vital part of a balanced school life at St Columba’s, and it has been wonderful to see our students making the most of the many opportunities available. Tomorrow, our Year 3–6 students will represent the school at the HOLT Athletics Carnival, and we wish them every success. Our swimming program continues to play an important role in our Physical Education curriculum, with our Year 6 students proudly achieving their water safety certificates—a significant milestone. Adding to the excitement this term, our basketballers reached the finals of Hooptime, an achievement that reflects their dedication and teamwork. Together, these experiences highlight the central role of sport and physical activity in our school community.
Looking ahead, the calendar remains full and vibrant. We are looking forward to our Father’s Day breakfast, parent–teacher interviews (please ensure you book in, as these are an important opportunity to check in with your child’s teacher about their progress and goals since Semester One) and our children’s social event—the School Disco—on Thursday 18 September. This will be followed by our annual Footy Colours Day.
Despite the inevitable winter illnesses, our children have made considerable gains this term, both academically and personally. We are very proud of the way they continue to embrace opportunities, grow in confidence and support one another.