Welcome!

A message from the Principal

Lent 

Last week, we began the season of Lent, a special time in the Church year that invites us to slow down, reflect, and prepare our hearts for Easter. Lent began with Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Day) on Tuesday 17 February, and it was wonderful to see such a strong turnout from our community for the breakfast. 

Following this, several of our Year 5/6 students represented St Peter’s at the Project Compassion Launch in Hargreaves Mall, joining students from Catholic schools across Bendigo. Our students confidently showcased the language of inclusion we teach at St Peter’s through Auslan, signing their names and teaching those present how to sign the 2026 theme, “Unite Against Poverty.”

On Wednesday, we then celebrated a beautiful Ash Wednesday Liturgy on our school grounds with Fr Junray. The marking of ashes on our foreheads reminded us of humility, reflection, and the opportunity for new beginnings. 

Throughout Lent, students are encouraged to practice kindness, forgiveness, and care for others, making thoughtful choices each day as we journey together towards Easter. 

Parent/Carer Morning Tea – Setting Up for Success & RIAC 

Following our Ash Wednesday Liturgy, families joined us for a Parent/Carer Morning Tea with Carolyn from RIAC. It was lovely to see families come together to reflect on the strong start to the year, celebrate milestones, and learn more about the supports available to parents and carers. 

Thank you to those who attended, and stay tuned for details of Carolyn’s next visit later in the term. 

PSG Meetings – Tuesday 24 February 

A reminder that PSG (Program Support Group) meetings will take place tomorrow, Tuesday 24 February, for students with a Personalised Learning Plan (PLP). These meetings are a Catholic Education Sandhurst Ltd (CESL) requirement and occur once each term, supporting shared understanding of your child’s learning and wellbeing. 

On this day, students will finish school at 2:15pm, with PSG meetings running from 2:30–5:30pm in 15-minute time slots. Families may attend either face-to-face or via phone, as booked through SiMON. 

For families unable to collect children at 2:15pm, supervision will be provided at school until the usual dismissal time of 3:15pm. After School Care will operate as normal, with students transported there as per usual arrangements. 

Thank you to families for engaging in these important conversations. 

Labour Day Public Holiday 

Please note that Monday 9 March is the Labour Day Public Holiday. School will be closed on this day, and we hope families enjoy the long weekend together. 

Prayer for Lent 

Loving God, 

During this season of Lent, help us to slow down and notice the needs of others. 

Teach us to show care through our words, our actions, and our choices each day. 

Guide us to be kind, forgiving, and generous, especially when it is not easy. 

May we grow together as a community that lives out love and compassion. 

Amen. 

God Bless,

Jeremy Darmody

Principal