Principal's News

Dear St Agatha’s Community,

As we come to the end of another rich and rewarding term, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the many wonderful experiences shared across our school and parish community.

Our Year 5 students recently attended their camp at The Island CYC on Phillip Island. This was a truly memorable experience, highlighted by the much-anticipated Penguin Parade, a range of exciting adventure activities, and the opportunity to reflect and pray together at Our Lady Star of the Sea. Camps such as these are so valuable in building independence, resilience, and friendships, and it was a joy to see our students thrive in this environment.

Our Year 3 and 4 students also completed their swimming program this term. It has been wonderful to see their skills and confidence develop in the water. Programs like these not only build physical capability but also reinforce important lessons in safety and perseverance.

We also extend our heartfelt congratulations to the students who celebrated their First Holy Communion. This is a deeply significant moment in the Catholic tradition, as students receive the Eucharist for the first time and continue to grow in their relationship with Christ. We thank our families and parish for their partnership in supporting our children on their faith journey.  

We also take this opportunity to celebrate student achievement beyond the classroom. Congratulations to James Nisbet on his wonderful effort at the Division Cross Country earlier this year, where he placed an impressive 30th. This is a fantastic accomplishment, and we are very proud of his determination and effort.

Adding to the energy of the term has been the Soccer World Cup spirit that has truly come alive across the school. There has been a wonderful sense of excitement, with students and staff alike embracing the fun—sharing in friendly discussions, showing their team colours, and enjoying the global celebration of sport together. It has been a joy to see our community so engaged and connected through this shared experience.

Looking Ahead to Term 3

We look forward to an exciting start to Term 3. A reminder to families that Monday 13th July is a Pupil Free Day, and students will return for the first day of Term 3 on Tuesday 14th July.

There are many highlights to come next term, including Book Week, where we celebrate the joy of reading and storytelling across the school.

A particularly significant event will be our 50th Anniversary Celebration – “Symphony of Stories.” 

This milestone is an opportunity to honour the rich history of St Agatha’s, celebrate the contributions of those who have come before us, and give thanks for the thriving community we are today. It promises to be a memorable highlight of the year. 

Farewell and Thank you!

As many of you will be aware, I shared with the community at the end of last term that I would be taking up the role of Foundation Principal of St Carlo Acutis Catholic Primary School, opening in 2027. As this week draws to a close, the time has now come for me to say farewell, with today being my final day at St Agatha’s.

While I am excited about this next chapter, it is with deep gratitude and a touch of sadness that I reflect on my time here. Since beginning in June 2022, I have had the privilege of serving this wonderful community for four fulfilling years. During this time, I have truly valued getting to know our students, families, and staff.

I became an educator because of my love for students and learning, and it has been a joy to see that lived out every day at St Agatha’s. Our staff are truly special people; dedicated, passionate, and deeply committed to their vocation. They work tirelessly to ensure every child is supported, challenged, and known.

At the heart of Catholic education is our call to live the Gospel, and I hold strongly to the belief that we are called to love one another. This simple yet powerful message has guided my time here and has been reflected so beautifully in the way this community supports and cares for each other.

I will take with me many cherished memories and experiences from St Agatha’s as I begin my new role, based at St Thomas the Apostle Parish, preparing for the opening of the new school. This community has shaped me both professionally and personally, and for that I am deeply thankful. While I may be moving on, I sincerely hope not to be a stranger. St Agatha’s will always hold a special place in my heart, and I look forward to staying connected.

As I prepare to depart, I am very pleased to share that Mrs Kate Dourley has been appointed as the new Principal of St Agatha’s. Mrs Dourley joins us from St Thomas the Apostle Catholic Primary School in Clyde and brings with her a wealth of experience, strong leadership, and a deep commitment to Catholic education. She visited earlier this week and is very much looking forward to becoming part of this community. I am confident she will continue to lead St Agatha’s with great care, faith, and vision.

Thank you for your continued support, partnership, and trust over my time at St Agatha’s. It has been a privilege to journey alongside you.

May God bless you and your families, and may we continue to live out our call to love one another.

Yours sincerely,

Michelle Bruitzman