Principal's Update

SMJ Cookbook

The SMJ Family Favourites Cookbook has arrived just in time for Christmas.

Cost $25.00 each or 

$30.00 Christmas Gift Wrapped

This is our major fundraiser for the year.

Order forms are available through the Office or call Jane on 5382 3000

Contact Details

If your address, place of work or phone numbers have changed through the year, please either call in or email your updated details to office@smjhorsham.catholic.edu.au 

These details must be updated regularly so that we can contact you should an emergency arise with your child.

Social Media

This week, the Grade 5 and 6 Teachers have been dealing with social media issues that have occurred at home and which have caused distress and children feeling unsafe, even at school. These feelings are a direct result of other students making cruel, hurtful and threatening comments via social media apps. 

We understand that social media has become important in how children communicate with each other and that monitoring it can be an absolute nightmare for families. Please check out the eSafety Commissioner link for resources that may be of assistance in understanding parental obligations and ways to support your children to become good digital citizens, respecting those that they interact with online whilst also knowing how to keep themselves safe.

Staffing Update for 2024

With word of the increasing teacher shortage across the state I am very pleased to let you know that SMJ will begin the year fully staffed. 

Beth Mandic (Dortmans) is returning from maternity leave at the beginning of the year and Mollie Murray will also return at the beginning of term 2.

Scott Polycarpou has accepted a position at St Monica's Catholic School in Moonee Ponds, and we wish him all the best with this move.

We welcome to our staff Claire Burke and Anne Newton. Claire has been teaching at Holy Trinity and Anne has spent many years at OLHC Murtoa. We are very excited to welcome Anne and Claire to our SMJ family.

2024 Intentions

To assist with our ongoing planning for 2024, please contact the Office (5382 3000) if there are circumstances leading to your family not continuing with your enrolment.

Capital Grant Application.

Due to increasing enrolments, we have submitted an application for funding for a Capital Grant. Grant applications will be finalised next year, and the successful schools will be notified in June 2024. Fingers crossed that our application will be successful.

Little Angler Kits

The State Government is keen to get more children outside and active, connecting with nature and enjoying time in the great outdoors. Fishing is a great way to do that, which is why the State Government is investing $96m to improve fishing, boating, piers and aquaculture. 

Grade 5 students have been selected based on the Victorian Curriculum focus, movement and motor development, and safety considerations.

A Google form will be sent to all families with a child in Grade 5, where you can either opt to receive a kit or decline the offer. 

The kits will be distributed as soon as possible.

Enjoy the fantastic weather we expect this weekend, and keep safe.

Andrea