Assistant Principal's 

News

Dear Parents 

Navigating Screen Time in a Digital World

In today’s connected world, managing children’s use of devices has become one of the most common challenges for parents. From balancing screen time with schoolwork and sleep, to ensuring safe and positive online experiences, the digital age presents both opportunities and concerns.

We know it’s not always easy to find the right approach — especially as technology continues to evolve. That’s why at St Francis Xavier, we are  committed to supporting families with resources, tools and strategies to help children develop healthy and balanced tech habits at home. One great resource is the “Screen Time Toolkit

”https://www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/screen-time-toolkit

The Sydney Children's Hospitals Network (SCHN) clinicians have worked with the NSW Government to produce the resources on the site relating to screen time and the different ways to support parents in maintaining routine and wellbeing. The goal isn’t to cut out screens completely - it’s about finding balance. The resources are free to use and share. 

Mathletics School Subscription

After careful considerstion our school has made the decision not to renew our subscription with Mathletics. 

PIRLS Field Study 

The Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) is the longest running international study of reading literacy. It surveys students from 60 countries. The study in Australia is conducted by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER)Conducted every five years since 2001 (with Australia participating since 2011), PIRLS provides policy-relevant information about how to improve teaching and learning so that young students become accomplished and self-sufficient readers.

Our school was selected to participate in the field trial for 2025. 36 schools across NSW, Queensland and Victoria will complete the field trial in May with whole classes of Year 5 students participating.Our participation is a fantastic opportunity for our Year 5 students to be a part of this groundbreaking and relevant research. 

We are looking forward to sharing a beautiful morning together tomorrow as we celebrate and give thanks for our greatest gift of mothers. 

An Irish Blessing for Mother’s Day    

God made a Mother

With gentle, helping hands.

And a caring spirit

That always understands.

He took the brightest stars

And put them in her eyes.

He made her good and kind,

Wonderful and wise.

God made an Irish mother,

As perfect as can be . . .

He filled her heart with love

That overflows to me.

Happy Mother’s Day to all who are mothers and have known the love of a mother’s heart.

God Bless,

Fiona