Wellbeing & Inclusion

Preparing for Step Up Day – Monday 

As we approach the end of the year, we are excited to share that Step Up Day will take place this coming Monday. This is an important opportunity for students to experience their new grade level and meet the teachers and peers they will be working with in the year ahead.

We understand that stepping into a new grade can feel a little daunting for some children. 

You can support your child by:

• Talking positively about new beginnings and the exciting adventures that come with them.
• Encouraging openness to different peers and teachers.
• Reminding them that while change can feel challenging, it also brings opportunities to grow, learn, and make new connections.

At St Mary’s, with only two classes at each year level, compiling classes can be both tricky and simple. There are only two ways students can move between grades, which means that over time, children have the chance to become close friends with everyone in their cohort. This is a unique strength of our school community, fostering inclusivity and strong relationships.

We ask families to help build the importance of embracing different peers and teachers during Step Up Day, and to encourage children to see this as the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their learning journey.

Farewell Year 6 Students

As we prepare for Step Up Day, we also take a moment to farewell our wonderful Year 6 students. This group holds a very special place in my heart, as they were the first cohort to welcome me when I began at St Mary’s. Their warmth, resilience, and spirit have been a constant source of inspiration, and I am so grateful for the way they have shaped our community.

Year 6, as you step into secondary school, know that you carry with you the love, pride, and blessings of all of us here. May you continue to shine brightly, embrace new challenges with courage, and build friendships that last a lifetime. You will always be part of the St Mary’s story, and I wish you every success and joy on the journey ahead.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

Thank you to everyone for your ongoing support throughout the year. I am deeply grateful for the way you place wellbeing at the forefront of your child’s education, helping to pave the way for them to grow into happy, resilient, respectful, and responsible citizens in our world.

I wish all families a joyful and safe Christmas, and a wonderful New Year filled with peace and happiness.

On a personal note, I will be on long service leave during the month of February. If you have any wellbeing or diversity questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact St Mary’s dedicated wellbeing team: Sharon Hynes, Olivia Hodgetts, and Denis Johnston.

I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the incredible staff at St Mary’s. Their tireless commitment, creativity, and compassion make our school such a vibrant and nurturing place for every child. It is through their daily care, wisdom, and joy that our community continues to flourish. My heartfelt wish for each of them is that this holiday season brings well-deserved rest, laughter, and renewal, so they return in the new year refreshed and inspired.

Merry Christmas and blessings always, 

Daniela Day

Head of Wellbeing & Inclusion