Learning and Teaching News

Ash Wednesday

This week we celebrated Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the season of Lent which is sacred time of reflection, renewal and preparation as we journey towards Easter.

Recently, I came across a reflective piece of writing titled Sitting in the Ashes by Fr Ron Rolheiser, an American priest and scholar who reflects on his own journey with receiving ashes. His words deeply resonated with me and invited me to reflect on my own journey as a Catholic over 48 years of receiving ashes (I’m showing my age now!!).

While studying my Masters at Australian Catholic University, I have read the work of many scholars who write about the different meanings of Lent - humility and honesty, repentance, renewal and new life. For me, the ashes are a reminder what what can come next after a fire,  a sprout emerging out of the ashes… a quiet sign of renewal and new life.

I remember that as a child, Lent was often about fasting - no meat on Fridays and trying ever so hard to give up chocolate for the 40 days! Now, I try to live Lent more intentionally through almsgiving; acts of kindness, compassion and personal service to others - asking myself how I can turn more fully to God and how I can give back to others?

As I lead Sacred Heart in faith, I encourage our students, teachers and community to do the same. This week, I spent time with our Catholic Identity & Social Justice Leaders, Daisy and Abigail, reflecting on this together and exploring Caritas Project Compassion, encouraging them to consider how we can give generously through almsgiving this Lent.

I warmly encourage you to read Ron Rolheiser’s reflection below. It offers a gentle and thoughtful invitation to sit with the meaning of this Ash Wednesday and what it calls us to in the forty days ahead. 

Ron Rolheiser's reflection: https://ronrolheiser.com/sitting-in-the-ashes/

Sacred Heart Camp Program

With our Year 5 and Year 6 students preparing to head off to camp this term, we are pleased to share the Sacred Heart Camp Program for 2026. 

We thoughtfully design programs that are tailored to the needs of our students. The camp experience is planned to support the development of important life skills such as independence, resilience, teamwork and confidence - all while having fun and strengthening relationships with classmates and teachers. 

We believe that camp also provides valuable opportunities for learning beyond the classroom, where students engage in real-world experiences that deepen their understanding, challenge them in new ways and support personal growth. It is always a special time of growth, connection and shared memories for our students.

We look forward to these camps this year and sharing the students experiences with you!

Altar Servers

Altar serving is a wonderful opportunity for students to engage more deeply with our Parish community and to build a stronger spiritual connection with the celebration of the Mass.

Training for interested students will begin soon and will be led by Fr Samuel and Cath. Students will learn the various altar-serving roles and responsibilities, with new servers supported by experienced servers through a “shadowing” approach that helps build confidence and understanding.

Students who have been Baptised and have received First Reconciliation and Holy Communion are welcome to participate. 

Training will take place during RE lessons or at lunchtime to minimise impact on other learning areas.

If your child is interested in becoming an altar server, please email Cath at cpalmer@shnewport.catholic.edu.au to register your interest.

Cath Palmer

Deputy Principal

Catholic Identity & Pedagogy