Newsletter

Parents in Partnership

SCIENCE OF LEARNING 

 

We were excited to offer our first parent information session delivered by neuroscientist Dr Jared Cooney Hoorvath on Wednesday evening. This workshop focused on ‘Stress, Tech and Sleep.’  

 

Jared offered some background information into the developing brain along with some insight into how we can connect with and support our children at home.  If you were unable to make the first session, you are still welcome to join our next sessions.  

 

Session 2 – 15th October, 6:45pm in the school Library 

Session 3 -  29th October, 6:45pm in the school Library 

 

Recording 

Presentation Mode 

Date and Time 

Recording 2  

Surviving Study – Understanding the three keys to learning and memory 

Face to Face  

St Mary’s Library 

 

Term 4; 

15th October 6:45pm – 8:00pm 

 

Recording 3   Brain Development – Why we act like we do 

Face to Face  

St Mary’s Library 

 

Term 4; 

29th October 6:45pm – 8:00pm 

Literacy Learning Walks

As mentioned in previous newsletters, St Mary’s is now hosting learning walks—focused, purposeful observations for parents to see, learn, and ask questions about our classroom learning as we update our programs, fostering stronger partnership. Small groups (max 10) led by knowledgeable leaders focus on one key curriculum area. Each walk begins with clear expectations, followed by a focused observation. Afterwards, the group debriefs, discusses, and offers feedback to support teachers.  

 

This learning walk will focus on the curriculum area of Literacy, held on Thursday 11th September at 9:00am.  Please complete the form if you would like to attend. 

 

Save the Date – Holy Putter Day; 

November 14, 2025. More details to follow.  

School Advisory Council Meeting #4 Update 

 

At our recent SAC meeting the members discussed Child Safe standards and how that is evident to our parent and family groups. The members shared that our child safe practices and evident and known through examples of; 

 

  • The newsletter 
  • School rules & expectations  
  • Interview processes of new staff  
  • Volunteer training & induction process 
  • Language of Staff  
  • Compass communications  
  • Parent Code of Conduct  

 

We discussed how our community acknoweldges, celebrates and include ATSI and learners with diverse needs. The SAC shared that St Mary’s inclusive practices and evident and known through examples of; 

 

  • Harmony Day  
  • The newsletter 
  • Fire Carriers: work & formation  
  • Welcome / Acknowledgement of Country  
  • Year 6 shirts 
  • Sensory Room  
  • Guest speakers; for Learners & Families  
  • Spirituality Day  
  • Auslan  

  • Assembly – adjustment & inclusion practices  

     

Expression of Interest – School Advisory Council 

 

St Mary’s is seeking expressions of interest from community members who would like to join our School Advisory Council. 

 

The council is a small group that gathers approximately every six weeks (around 6 – 8 times per year) to share ideas, hear updates about school life, and provide feedback that helps shape the future of our community. Acting as an advisory sounding board, members contribute their perspectives, insights, and experiences to ensure decisions reflect the voice of our community. 

 

We welcome nominations from parents, carers, parishioners, and community members who are willing to: 

 

  • Attend council meetings regularly. 
  • Stay informed by reading school communications. 
  • Engage in conversations within the school community to gather thoughts, feedback, and ideas. 
  • Represent our diverse school community with openness and respect. 
  •  

Everyone has something valuable to offer, and we are looking to build a council that truly reflects the spirit of St Mary’s. 

 

If you are interested—or wish to nominate someone else—please complete the nomination form by the end of Term 3. Shortlisted nominees will then be invited to a Meet and Greet session before commencing their School Advisory tenure. 

Thank you for your interest and willingness to work together to make St Mary’s the best it can be. 

Nomination Form

St Mary’s School Advisory Council  

St. Mary’s School Advisory Council is composed of active and committed members of our school community who are eager to learn and support the school as a system. Our SAC consists of 11 members, all participating in dialogue to problem-solve and advocate positively for St. Mary’s. The SAC meets approximately every six weeks to discuss priorities and challenges experienced in our community. Please feel free to chat with our SAC members if you see them! 

 

2025 School Advisory Council Members  

 

Inece Bray  

Fth Novie Lim  

Jacki Madgwick  

Bridget Curran  

Jemma Beer  

Rick Sellars  

Kimmie Cashin  

Tom Hunt  

Jasmine Ryan  

Brent Anstee 

CESL: Ben Fitzpatrick  

 

Meeting Summary 

 

St Mary’s SAC recently met and discussed;  

  • Gratitude and appreciation of SAC members from CESL  
  • Child Safeguarding; policies, education, legislation and procedure  
  • Enrolment & Marketing for St Mary’s 
  • Capital Works progress: exploring partnerships with Campaspe Council for future works to serve the community