Dear St. Brendan's School Community,

As we approach the end of what has been a very full and rewarding Term 3, it’s incredible to reflect on just how much we have achieved in only nine weeks. From rich learning experiences in the classroom to engaging whole-school events, there has been a wonderful balance of hard work, growth, and fun throughout the term.

Last week, we came together as a school to formally farewell Fr Joe Taylor, who has served the St Brendan’s parish community with dedication and care for the past 13 years. Students honoured Fr Joe with an amazing concert that creatively retold his life story; from his youth, through his ministry, to a glimpse of his future in retirement, using powerful freeze-frame performances. It was a truly memorable celebration, made even more special by the presence of VIP guests and heartfelt video messages from around the world.

A sincere thank you to Leanne Pellegrino and Ange Collins for their leadership and preparation in organising such a meaningful event. The students did a phenomenal job in giving Fr Joe a farewell that reflected the deep appreciation we all share for his contributions to our school and parish. While we will miss him, we know he won’t be a stranger, and we look forward to welcoming him back for visits in the future.

We’re delighted to share some joyful news from our school community. Congratulations to Mr Josh Wild and Emily on the safe arrival of their baby boy, Will Rodney Wild. This is a truly special moment, and we send our heartfelt wishes to your family as you begin this wonderful new chapter. May your days ahead be filled with love, laughter, and precious memories.

In this week’s newsletter, you’ll find important updates and reminders, including:

Athletics Day
School Improvement & Catholic Identity Reviews
Planning for 2026- Enrolment Updates
Child Protection Week
Parent Access Module
Parent ORIMA Survey
And a look ahead at upcoming events

Thank you for you continued support,

Kind Regards,

Joel Brian (Principal)

Athletics Day

Last Friday, we celebrated our annual Athletics Carnival — a highlight of the school calendar and a wonderful day of energy, participation, and school spirit.

A huge congratulations to Mr Ethan Baxter, our PE Teacher, who did a fantastic job organising his first Athletics Carnival. His dedication and preparation ensured that all students were well-trained and ready to take part in the day's events. The result was a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Congratulations to the students in Goretti House for taking out the Overall Winner title, and to Xavier for being awarded the Spirit Award for outstanding encouragement, enthusiasm, and support throughout the day.

We were incredibly proud of all students for their active participation and teamwork. Their efforts truly embodied the values of perseverance, sportsmanship, and school pride.

Here are some photo's of the Day:

School improvement and Catholic Identity Review

We are pleased to welcome a panel of educational leaders to our school as part of our ongoing commitment to school improvement.

From Tuesday to Thursday (Week 9), we will be hosting Gary Crocetta (ACER Lead Reviewer), Paul Bissinella, and Jamie McDowall (both CESL School Improvement Leaders) for our School Improvement Review. This process provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on our current practices, celebrate our strengths, and identify areas for growth.

On Friday, we will also welcome Darta Hovey (Deputy Director: Mission & Educational Development) and Georgia Gordan (Source of Life Curriculum Learning Leader) for our Catholic Identity Review. This important review supports our ongoing mission to nurture a strong Catholic culture and identity within our learning community.

We look forward to working in partnership with these experienced educators as we continue to strengthen our school and deliver the best possible outcomes for our students.

Child Protection Week

This year’s Child Protection Week theme is 'Every conversation matters: shifting conversation to action'. At St Brendan’s Primary School, 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

Planning for 2026 – Enrolment Updates

As we begin planning for class structures and staffing for the 2026 school year, it’s important that we have accurate enrolment information.

If your family is considering a change to your child’s enrolment for 2026; whether transferring to another school, relocating, or making other adjustments, please contact me directly as soon as possible. Early notice helps us ensure smooth transitions and effective planning for all students.

Thank you for your support and cooperation.

Stay Connected with School Communication – PAM & Simon Everywhere

At St. Brendan’s, all school communication is managed through the Parent Access Module (PAM), which is linked to our school’s administration system. We also use the Simon Everywhere app, which allows families to receive updates directly to their mobile devices or email.

Through PAM and Simon Everywhere, families can:
Receive alerts and important messages
Read daily notices (our digital community noticeboard)
Notify the school of student absences
Update student medical information
Consent to excursions and camps
View the school calendar
Book Parent-Teacher Interviews

Our daily messages section is where we post key updates and flyers—such as information about Father’s Day events, Athletics Day, and the Assembly roster, so it’s important to check regularly.

We strongly recommend that all families download the Simon Everywhere app to ensure they don’t miss important information about what’s happening at school.

To access PAM, you’ll need a username and password provided by the school once your child is enrolled. Please note that students will not be able to participate in activities like camps and excursions without an up-to-date medical profile and permission submitted through PAM.

If you need help setting up PAM or the app, please contact our school office, we’re happy to assist.

You can also find instructions for downloading the app on our website:

SIMON Everywhere – Parent Handout

Reminder: ORIMA Parent Survey Participation

We’d like to thank the 80 families who were randomly selected to participate in the ORIMA Parent Survey. Your feedback is incredibly valuable in helping us gather meaningful data to support ongoing school improvement.

If you were selected, we kindly ask that you check your emails and take a few moments to complete the survey. Your insights will help us better understand what’s working well and where we can continue to grow as a school community.

We truly appreciate your time and support in shaping the future of St. Brendan’s.

Upcoming Events

Term 3

Thursday, 11th and Friday, 12th September- Year 4 Camp Alexandra
Friday, 12th September, Year 3 Excursion- Murray Life Adventures
Friday, 19th September – Footy Colours Day, 2:20pm finish.

Term 4

Monday, 6th October- Pupil Free Day Staff Professional Development
Tuesday, 7th October- Year 6 District Athletics
Wednesday, 8th October – Year 5 District Athletics
Thursday, 9th October – Year 4 District Athletics
Friday, 10th October- Year 3 District Athletics
Wednesday, 22nd October- Friday 24th October- Year 6 Camp
Friday, 24th October – Year 5 Excursion
Friday, 31st October Grandparents Morning Assembly and Activities
Monday, 3rd November- Staff Professional Development Day
Tuesday, 4th November- Melbourne Cup Public Holiday
Friday, 14th November – Kinder Transition 9:15am-10:45am
Friday, 21st November – Kinder Transition 9:15am-10:45am
November, 24th-28th – Junior Years & Middle Years (Group 1) Swimming Program
November, 1st - 5th – Middle Years (Group 2) & Senior Years Swimming Program
Thursday, 4th December – Foundation Information Night
Tuesday, 9th December – Orientation Day
Wednesday, 10th December – End of Year Mass
Thursday,11th December – End of Year Celebration
Tuesday, 16th December – Students Last Day

Thank you for your continued support.

Joel Brian (Principal)

Parish News