From the Principal

As I write this newsletter, I am sitting in my office surrounded by the wonderful sound of students learning and staff working. I feel fortunate to work in an environment where others find joy in learning. I am continually impressed by the work our students and staff engage in. I have just received a text message from Mr. Greene who has informed me of some very impressive student results at the Dendy Cross Country. Earlier today I was greeted by three students who came to the office to share their wonderful persuasive writing pieces. 

Earlier this week I visited the STEM room to see Year 5 students engage in an investigation about carbon dioxide and I also visited the Garden to see Year 4 students putting their learning about measurement into action. I am continually impressed by our students who are so talented in such a wide variety of areas. 

I am also continually impressed by our teaching staff who champion our students, provide them with the right amount of support, encouragement and challenge and ensure students engage in rich learning opportunities. 

As we reflect on the past two weeks and look forward to the next fortnight, we are reminded of the wonderful opportunities offered to our students.

ANZAC Day

Last week we commemorated ANZAC day as a whole school with a special assembly. Our school captains and STEM leaders shared the history of the ANZACS and as a community we listened to the last post and stood for a minute of silence. 

At Galilee we endeavour to teach our students about important events in Australia’s history and provide context to these events for future learning and understanding. 

The following was from our assembly:

Today, along with Australians everywhere, we gather to remember those who have served to defend Australia.  Anzac Day is a special day of remembrance that takes place on 25th April.

• It is a day commemorated in Australia and New Zealand, or by Australians and New Zealanders living elsewhere in the world.
• It is held in memory of the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.
• It is important to remember that today is not a day for celebrating, rather, a day for remembering those who lost their lives in battle.
• It is also a time to remember and cherish those who are still with us today, who fought for us in the war.
• When Britain declared war against Germany in August 1914, Australia was placed on the side of the Commonwealth. In 1915, soldiers from Australia and New Zealand formed part of an expedition to capture the Gallipoli peninsula.
• After the events at Gallipoli and the involvement of Australian soldiers in the First World War, the spirit of this nation became important to all citizens.
• All across the world, the Anzac soldiers were seen as brave, honourable, strong and determined men and women, who had fought hard and developed strong bonds with each other, in order to survive the horrific experiences they went through.

On Anzac Day, Dawn Services are held early in the morning at memorials and community meeting places across the country. These are quiet and respectful occasions, held at the time of day when soldiers were often preparing to go into battle. Dawn was also the time of the landings at Anzac Cove. On Anzac Day, many people choose to wear a red poppy or a sprig of rosemary on their clothing. These are worn in memory of all those who have served their country in war; particularly those who have made the sacrifice. 

Following military traditions, flags are lowered to half mast as a mark of respect to those who have died. The Last Post is played on a bugle to mark the end of a soldier’s daily duties and signifies that they have gone to their last resting place. This is later followed by the Reveille, another bugle call, which was traditionally used to wake soldiers from their sleep, ready for the day’s activities.

Dendy Cross Country

On Wednesday a team of 46 Galilee students participated in the Dendy Cross Country. Students competed against a number of Catholic Schools in the Southern Metropolitan Region. We were impressed by all the students who participated. They all competed to the best of their ability and showed tremendous sportsmanship throughout the day. We would like to especially acknowledge Declan from Year 5 and Matilda from Year 5 who both came second in their race. Congratulations to all students who participated and Mr. Greene who ran the event. We would like to thank Miss McCormack,  Mr. Edwards and parents who looked after and supported our students.  Further details are on our School News page.

Running Club

Running Club on a Monday and Friday morning before school has continued to attract many students. It is wonderful to see students enjoy engaging in physical activity with their friends as they run and participate in strength and conditioning sessions. Running Club would not be possible without the many parent helpers who volunteer. If you are interested in helping, please make yourself known on Monday or Friday morning - many hands make light work. 

School Uniform

Thank you to families and students who are now wearing the winter uniform. We have completed our period of transition and now require all students to wear full winter uniform. Winter uniform is worn by all students in Term 2 and 3. 

Upcoming Events and Activities

Mother’s Day

Next Friday 10th May, we will gather together as a community to celebrate Mothers and Special Women in our community. We are blessed to have an incredible community of Mothers and Mother-like figures who are the backbone of our school community. We are aware of the support these wonderful women offer our students and school community on a daily basis. 

In our Catholic tradition we are fortunate to have a spiritual mother who we all share, Mary, Mother of God. Mary was known for her faith, strength, humility, discipleship and willingness to serve others. We can see these inspirational qualities in many of the Mothers and Mother-like figures within our community. 

Next week at Galilee, we are hosting many ways to celebrate these women in our students’ lives including a pop-up Mother’s Day Stall, morning tea, mass and luncheon. There has been more information posted on our dojo. This can also be found in our School News section of the newsletter.  

Year 6 Urban Camp - 13th - 15th of May

We are excited to offer our Year 6 students two camps this year. On Monday 13th May our Year 6’s will head off on their first camp this year. They are going on an urban adventure, staying at The Urban Camp which is situated near the zoo.

Please click on the video below to find out more about the Urban Camp.

We look forward to hearing from you. Please watch this space for photos and students writing about it in future weeks. 

Other News

Stadium

Please see the letter sent to all families regarding the stadium

Xavier College

Last week, Richard and I had the opportunity to visit Xavier College in Kew. We were able to tour the new Year 7 and 8 building that boasts exceptional resources and new learning spaces. We were pleased to hear this new space allows for further enrollment places in Year 7 at Xavier College. 

While we were there we were able to see some  past Galilee students in action. It was wonderful to see them confidently participating in a range of learning experiences. From what we could see and from what we were told they seem to have made a very successful transition from Galilee to Xavier College 

I wish you and your family every blessing in the coming weeks,

Amy Burns

Acting Principal