From the Acting Principal
Mr Dallas Hyatt
Where has this Term gone so far?
Hello everyone. Since the release of the last edition of this newsletter, I trust that each and every one of you had a wonderful extended weekend and had the opportunity to enjoy the additional day with your dear friends and family.
The past few weeks have certainly been filled with a flurry of activities and events. From the Catholic Schools Week Mass, the whole school assembly, and various ceremonies, our school community has been bustling with energy and excitement. It's been a whirlwind of experiences for a number of our students, from taking part in the UNE Science Discovery Tour as well as the recent Sacrament of Confirmation for a number of our Year 6 students, adding to the many memorable moments we've shared together.
Despite the fact that there are just slightly under two weeks remaining in the term, the upcoming days until the final day of Term 2 are expected to be extremely busy.
Well, that's enough from me for now. I hope I hope I will get the chance to catch up with you all sometime in the very near future. Take care and I will see you all soon.
UNE Science Bus Discovery Team Visit
Last Friday, our Years 3-6 students embarked on an exciting journey of scientific exploration as the UNE Science Discovery Bus Tour visited St. Mary's Primary.
The students had a fantastic day, participating in a range of interactive and hands-on activities led by the engaging team from the University of New England. The sessions provided a wonderful opportunity for our older students to delve into various scientific concepts, fostering their natural curiosity and sparking a deeper interest in the world around them. From engaging experiments to thought-provoking demonstrations, the Science Bus brought learning to life in a dynamic way.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Mrs. Stephen for her efforts in organising this valuable educational experience for our students.
Congratulations to Our Newly Confirmed Year 6 Students!
A truly special day unfolded this past Sunday, June 8th, as our Year 6 students received the Sacrament of Confirmation at the Cathedral. It was a deeply meaningful ceremony, marking a significant milestone in their faith journeys.
I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the Year 6 students who were confirmed. Their dedication and thoughtful preparation for this Sacrament were evident throughout the process.
A special and sincere thank you goes to Mrs. Burton and Miss O'Brien for their commitment, guidance, and spiritual leadership in preparing the students for this Sacrament.
Polding Cross Country Trials
Congratulations to David, Sophia, Molly, Jade, Carmen, Catalina and Harriet for their outstanding performance at the Polding Cross Country Trials in Sydney last Wednesday. Competing against top runners from five other dioceses in northern NSW, our students excelled. All the students who represented our diocese should take pride in their accomplishments. Once again, well done to all of you.
Semester 1 Reports
On Thursday, June 26th, student reports will be distributed electronically through the Compass parent portal. Should parents have any questions or wish to schedule a meeting with their child's class teacher, we encourage you to contact the School Office during Week 10 to arrange a convenient time to discuss any matters related to your child's learning.
How to view your child's report on Compass
Log into Compass
To view the Semester 1 report select your child's profile (photo) and click Reports, select 2025 Semester 1 Report.
The role of our wonderful P and F Committee
At St Mary’s Primary School, our Parents and Friends (P&F) Association plays a vital role in supporting our students, staff, and the wider school community. The P&F is a dedicated group of parents and caregivers who work together to foster a strong sense of community while also raising funds to enhance learning opportunities for all students.
The P&F Association makes a vital contribution by organizing fundraising events throughout the year. These initiatives provide essential resources, technology, and learning materials that directly benefit our students, enriching and engaging their learning environment.
For instance, the annual St Mary's School Fete recently raised an impressive $20,000. Furthermore, at last Wednesday's P&F meeting, the committee approved the purchase of items including new sporting equipment, outdoor playground equipment, and a portable PA system. These are just a few examples of the numerous ways the funds raised will undoubtedly benefit all our students.
Beyond fundraising, the P&F also plays a crucial role in strengthening relationships within our school community. They organise events that bring families together, fostering a sense of connection and shared purpose in supporting our children’s education.
We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing dedication and generosity of our P&F Association. Their efforts make a meaningful difference in the educational experience of every student at St Mary’s Primary, and we encourage all families to get involved where possible.
Thank you to our P&F for your incredible support—you are truly making a difference!
Urgent Call for Helpers: St Mary's Primary School Fete Needs YOU!
The annual St Mary's Primary School Fete is scheduled for Friday, November 15th, and we are in urgent need of your support to make it happen!
Last year, this incredible event successfully raised $20,000, which was directly invested in purchasing various valuable resources for all our classrooms. The Fete is a cornerstone fundraiser that significantly benefits every student and teacher in our wonderful school community.
However, we are currently facing a critical situation. If we don't get enough volunteers to assist with the planning and running of the Fete, we may be forced to make the heartbreaking decision to cancel this year's event. This would be detrimental to our school, as it impacts our ability to provide essential resources.
For the Fete to go ahead, we desperately need a number of our families to join a Fete Sub-Committee. Whether you can offer a few hours of your time, lend your skills, or commit to being part of the planning committee, every bit of help makes a difference.
If you are able to assist in any way, or if you are willing to join a Fete Sub-Committee, please contact the school office as soon as possible.
Should you have any questions, please feel free to reach out directly to Jo Ward on 0429 831 382.
Without sufficient interest and support, we may have no choice but to cancel this cherished and vital community event. Please help us ensure the St Mary's Primary School Fete can continue its tradition of supporting our students
Kindergarten Enrolments for 2026
If you know anyone who has a son/daughter ready to start school next year, please let them know that enrolments are now open. Enrolment forms can be obtained from the School Office.
Enrolments are now open for Kindergarten 2026.
Please contact the school for an enrolment package - 6772 4441 or email
Staff Development Days Coming Up Soon...
PLEASE PUT THESE DATES IN YOUR CALENDAR
A reminder to families that Friday 4th July and Monday 21st July are both Staff Development Days. Students do not attend school on these days.
The first day for students in Term 3 is Tuesday 22 July.
Whole School Assembly Next Friday!
St Mary's Primary will be holding a whole school assembly in the school hall on Friday 27th June, commencing at 2:40 PM.
All members of our school community are warmly invited to join us as we celebrate student achievements and share important school news. We look forward to seeing you there!
School Fees -Term 2
Thank you for your continued support, please make sure your accounts are up-to-date before the end of the term.
Wearing our Uniform with Pride
Thank you parents for ensuring your children were wearing their full Winter uniform throughout the past fortnight, it was very evident that we take pride in our presentation.
Maintaining a high uniform standards is an important part of our school's identity and plays a significant role in fostering a sense of pride and respect for our school.
Our uniform identifies St Mary's School within the community and develops a sense of school spirit and belonging within the student body. Some specific uniform requirements, such as shoes, hats, hair and jewellery, are directly related to student safety. The wearing of the correct school uniform is compulsory, and students are expected to arrive wearing it daily, ready to learn. Families are asked to ensure that each item of clothing is clearly labelled.
We thank you for your partnership in this important aspect of school life.
