PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE

Dear Parents and Carers,

Welcome to Week 1's newsletter for Term 3. I hope each of our families enjoyed the holidays and found time to relax and reconnect during the school break.

Student-Led Learning Conferences

Next week, we will host Student-Led Learning Conferences for all children at Sacred Heart School to discuss their learning from Semester 1 with their parents. These conferences are not just another event, but a significant opportunity for you to understand and support your child's learning journey. As the name suggests, these conferences will focus on learning. If parents wish to discuss matters other than learning, a meeting can be scheduled with your child's class teacher at another time. During these meetings, the students will present work samples to their parents and discuss their reflections and next steps in learning. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to show pride in their learning and take accountability for their work. Parents will also participate by asking questions and offering constructive comments. Your understanding and preparation for these conferences are key. Please ensure that you book a time with your child/ren's teacher/s via Compass before next week. If these dates do not suit you, please contact the teacher/s to arrange an alternative time.

Below is an outline of the process that the Student-Led Learning Conferences will follow:

Collective Commitment to Thrive Project

Armidale Catholic Schools is supporting our school to take part in a “Collective Commitment to Thrive” project led by Jane Bezzina. Jane is a Sydney-based consultant whose expertise is working with staff in organisations to help them identify areas to strengthen the systems, structures, and resources needed for schools to flourish. This process involves exploring a shared vision for leadership and a deepening understanding of the cultural conditions that enable student growth. This project is aligned with the Armidale Catholic Schools Leading Well Framework.

Jane will visit the school to engage with staff and the Sacred Heart community, offering insights and feedback tailored to the unique strengths and challenges of a small school. Input from staff, parents, and students will help shape a customised project, which will be delivered in response to the school’s specific needs. Participation in this project offers a valuable opportunity for professional growth and involvement for all.

Investing in the development of strong teams creates a healthier, more productive, and more supportive workplace culture that benefits every individual contributor, regardless of their position. Furthermore, this program aligns with the work we have been doing in accordance with our 2025 Annual Improvement Plan.

We will begin this work early in Term 3, and are confident that this will be a positive process with Jane and look forward to working together to drive improvement in culture and student learning.

Wishing everyone a productive and rewarding Week 1!

Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or concerns.

Warm regards,

Claire Ryan

Principal