Principal Message

Be Kind, Be safe, Be respectful, Be responsible, Be resilient, Be ready

As we move further into the term, there are many wonderful learning opportunities and special events happening at Our Lady Star of the Sea, Cowes.

NAPLAN 2026

Students in Years 3 and 5 will soon participate in NAPLAN (National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy). NAPLAN assesses skills in reading, writing, language conventions (spelling, grammar and punctuation), and numeracy.

To help students feel confident and comfortable, we will be providing a practice session so children can become familiar with the online platform. This practice is not a test of ability, but simply an opportunity to explore how the platform works — including how to navigate questions, use online tools, and manage their time. Our goal is for students to approach NAPLAN calmly and confidently, understanding that it is just one way to demonstrate their learning.

We encourage families to reassure children that doing their best is what matters most.

World Day of Prayer, Friday March 6

We also look forward to participating in World Day of Prayer, a beautiful global ecumenical movement led by Christians who invite us to join in prayer and reflection. This special day reminds us that we are part of a worldwide community united in faith and hope. As a school, we will take time to pray together and reflect on how we can bring peace and compassion into our own community. Some of our grade 6 students will participate in a service for the combined churches of Phillip Island, at the Baptist Church on Friday morning. We were moved to be invited to participate in this special service of prayer and look forward to representing our Catholic school and parish at this prayer service.

The Season of Lent

We are currently in the sacred season of Lent; a time of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Lent is a journey that leads us closer to Easter, inviting us to reflect, grow and strengthen our relationship with God. Throughout this season, students will participate in meaningful classroom discussions, prayer experiences and acts of service.

As we journey towards Easter, we are reminded of the values of kindness, forgiveness, generosity and hope. It is a special time in the life of our Catholic school community.

Exciting Things Ahead

There are many exciting events coming up at Our Lady Star of the Sea, Cowes. Students can look forward to engaging learning experiences, community events, sporting opportunities and faith celebrations. We are especially excited about continuing to build strong connections between school and home as we work together to support every child’s growth; academically, socially and spiritually.

Thank you for your continued support in making our school a vibrant, nurturing and faith-filled community.

Warm regards,

Pamela McKillop