Principal's message

Spring has arrived, bringing longer days, warmer sunshine, and the thrill of the footy finals! It’s such an exciting time of year for our school community, as students, families, and staff come together to celebrate sport, teamwork, and school spirit. 

Good luck to all our teams stepping into the finals season – we hope you enjoy every moment of the action, give it your best on the field or court, and make memories that will last well beyond the season. Let’s embrace all the energy and excitement that this wonderful time of year brings!

This Sunday is Father's Day - we celebrate all the dads, grandfathers, and special people in our students’ lives. Thanks for everything you do – from showing off your “unique” dance moves to telling the same dad jokes over and over again! We hope your day is filled with laughter, love, and maybe a little bit of relaxation.

Matt Knight - Principal 

Feast of St Monica

Last week, our school community celebrated St. Monica’s Feast Day! We reflected on her patience, faith, and dedication, especially as a guiding example for her son, St. Augustine. Students participated in activities that highlighted kindness, perseverance, and community spirit—values that continue to inspire us every day.  

It was a special opportunity for our school community to come together, reflect on our values, and celebrate the legacy of our founders. Students engaged in activities throughout the week that highlighted our shared spirit, faith, and community.

Science of Learning 

We continue to explore our partnership with world-renowned educational neuroscientist, Dr Jared Cooney Horvath, who conducted our diocesan-wide professional learning at the beginning of Term 2. Jared is a global leader in the Science of Learning, and his work offers powerful insights into how students learn and how we can best support them to thrive at school and beyond.

The first parent session was well attended, and we received very positive feedback from families who found the insights informative and valuable. 

The next session will focus on:

Brain Development: Why We Act Like We Do📲 A video link will be emailed out via SIMON Everywhere. No bookings or set times are required to view this session.

Staff Update

I am pleased to introduce Simone Waddington, who has joined us at St Monica’s as a Learning Support Officer.

Simone brings with her over 20 years of experience in education, having worked as a Learning Support Officer, Classroom Teacher and Student Wellbeing Worker.  I know she is looking forward to working with our families and contributing to the ongoing support of our students.

Teacher Aide (LSOs) Appreciation Week 

This week, we celebrate the incredible work of our Learning Support Officers! Your dedication, support, and care make a huge difference in the daily lives of our students and staff. Thank you for helping our school community thrive – we truly appreciate all that you do!

ORIMA Surveys 

Last week, our annual ORIMA Survey has been released to a random selection of families from St Monica's to complete. Please know that this data is very purposeful for the school in planning improvements and resources to best include parent voice and perception. 

I would be very grateful to those of you who can commit time to completing this survey. Alongside families, staff and learners also take part, providing Leadership and CESL with perspective data of what is going well at St Monica's and areas of growth we can focus on in the future. Thank you to any of you who can take part.

Students’ Belongings 

I ask that students do not bring toys, sports equipment, or other personal items to school. These items can be easily lost, damaged, or cause disruptions during learning and break time.

We appreciate your support in ensuring that students focus on their learning and enjoy school activities safely.

Thank you for your understanding.

Child Protection Week

This year’s Child Protection Week theme is 'Every conversation matters: shifting conversation to action'. At St Monica's, we are committed to creating safe, supportive spaces for children and young people. This Child Protection Week, we’re reminded that every conversation has the power to protect, encourage and heal. The documentary Seen - The Film is a moving reminder of how being truly present with our children – even for just a few minutes – can change their sense of safety and belonging. We encourage all parents and carers to watch Seen - The Film and reflect on how the simple act of listening can shape a child’s future. Together, let’s turn our conversations into lasting action.

Start the conversation - online safety at home

Launching a regular series for parents, this first A4 insert helps families start regular chats about respectful online behaviour, privacy, app age restrictions and where to find trusted advice from the eSafety Commissioner.

Download flyer

Principal’s Long Service Leave

I will be on annual leave from Friday 12th September to Friday 19th September (the final week of Term 3). During this time, our Deputy Principal, Mr Anthony Chalkley, will be leading the school and available to support students, staff and families.