Principal's Update
Welcome back to all families following the Easter holidays. We have enjoyed an excellent start to Term 2. It has been wonderful to have our full yard space available again and there has been a real sense of positivity across the school as everyone enjoys our new building and landscaping, particularly in the beautiful sunny weather. I have especially enjoyed seeing children out on the grass doing cartwheels and making the most of the natural soft surface. Thank you to our staff for their efforts in ensuring such a strong and positive start to the term.
There were many highlights from Week 1. I was especially proud of our senior school students who represented the school so positively at the Summer Interschool Sports on Friday. It was fantastic to see their teamwork and sportsmanship on display. It was also great to see so many parents and family members down there on the day.
I was also very pleased with the way our students participated in our ANZAC Day service assembly. Their respectful and thoughtful engagement was a credit to both our students and staff, and it was a meaningful way to acknowledge this important occasion as a school community.
Building and Facilities Update: I am very pleased to report that our new building project has now been completed. The development includes three new state of the art classrooms, new student toilet facilities and significant landscaping improvements. The quality of the build is excellent and we are extremely pleased with the outcome. The removal of internal building fencing has allowed us to reclaim a substantial amount of play space for students, which has already had a noticeably positive impact on the school environment.
The next phase of the project is now underway and involves the redevelopment of the Year 3 classrooms. These spaces will be extended and upgraded to incorporate contemporary learning features. Demolition works have been completed and the project is expected to take approximately eight weeks.
I would like to acknowledge Raysett Constructions for their professionalism and proactive approach throughout all stages of the project.
Sacramental Program – Confirmation: Our Year 6 students are currently preparing for the Sacrament of Confirmation, which will be a central focus throughout Term 2. Following Bishop Rene’s appointment to the Diocese of Sandhurst, we are pleased that Father Desmond will be confirming our students this year.
It is particularly encouraging that several preparation events are being conducted in partnership with St Mary’s, reflecting a strong and positive relationship between our parish schools. Key dates are as follows:
Commitment Mass – 3 May
Information Night – 7 May at St Mary’s
Session with Father Desmond and shared lunch – 15 May at St Mary’s
Reconciliation and final preparation – 19 May at St Mary’s
Confirmation – 21 May at St Mary’s
2027 Enrolments: The enrolment process for 2027 is well underway. We currently have 76 enrolments, which is a healthy number at this stage of the year. Formal enrolments close on Friday 1 May. I will commence meeting with new families from Monday 4 May, with interviews scheduled throughout the month of May. If you have a child ready to begin Prep in 2027 and have not yet submitted an application, I encourage you to do so as soon as possible.
Sporting Success St Margaret’s enjoyed a highly successful two days at the Summer Interschool Sport District competition. We were proud to win the Mixed Soccer, Girls Soccer and Tennis Grand Finals for the Ascot Vale District and narrowly missed a place in the Cricket final. It was fantastic to see our students thriving, competing with great spirit and supporting one another so well across the two days. Our winning teams will now progress to the Regional events later in the year and we wish them every success.
Wishing all families a wonderful term ahead.
John
