Dear St Joseph’s Families,

Can you believe we are already halfway through Term 1? The energy around the school is fantastic, and as we settle into our routines, we have a very busy few weeks ahead of us.

Congratulations to the students who have received Respect Safety & Learning awards over the last fortnight. These students uphold our school values to the highest standard.

Diocesan Swimming Carnival

Today, our school’s swimmers are competing at the Diocesan Swimming Carnival in Inverell. We are incredibly proud of the hard work and extra hours these students have put into their training. We would also like to give Bec Wilson and Katie Murray much appreciation for giving their time and expertise to our students. We wish you all the very best of luck!

A Season of Reflection: Lent

We have now entered the season of Lent, a solemn but beautiful time in our liturgical calendar. Lent offers us 40 days to "pause" and reflect on our lives and our relationship with God.

In our classrooms, we are discussing how we can practice Lent not just by "giving something up," but by "taking something up"—such as extra kindness, daily gratitude, or helping those in need through Project Compassion. It is a time for growth and preparing our hearts for the joy of Easter.

Our Stage 3 students have begun to work on their Caritas fundraising events for Lent. These activities will happen in Week 9 and will be advertised soon. One Fundraiser will be an EASTER EGG RAFFLE. All students are asked to bring in an easter egg or bag of eggs to contribute to the easter egg raffle.

NAPLAN: Years 3 & 5

A reminder to our families that the NAPLAN (National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy) window is approaching. These assessments will take place for all students in Year 3 and Year 5. These tests provide a "snapshot" of student progress and help us tailor our teaching to better support your child’s needs. The best way to prepare is simply to ensure your child gets plenty of sleep and a healthy breakfast. We aim for a calm, stress-free environment where students can simply do their best. If you have any questions or concerns please contact your child’s teachers.

Farewell

It is with mixed emotions that we announce the departure of Bec Yeomans from the canteen. Bec’s last day with us will be Friday, 13th March. We want to extend a massive thank you for all the meals, the friendly smiles at the canteen window, and the dedication she has shown to our school community. We wish her nothing but the absolute best as she embarks on her new journey!

We will be advertising for a new canteen supervisor so please keep an eye on our Facebook page.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

Diocesan Winter Trials - 6th March
Parent meetings - 10th - 11th March
NAPLAN - 11th - 23rd March
Open classrooms - 18th March
Holy Thursday - 2nd April
Last day of term - 2nd April
Good Friday - 3rd April
Holy Saturday - 4th April
Easter Sunday - 5th April

We look forward to a productive and positive Term 1.

Blessings for the week ahead,

Donna

Photos from week

Library Fun

Year 6 Leadership Badge Presentation