Principal's Report

Dear Parents, Carers and Community Members,

As I reflect on Term 3, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for our St Joseph’s community. The pinnacle of my year so far has been seeing our students and families shine through a series of remarkable events. Our victory in the Armidale Catholic Schools Brain Olympia Finals and the success of the St Joseph’s Public Speaking Cup showcased our students excelling in their academic pursuits, while Grandparents and Grandfriends Day topped it all off by highlighting the authentic warmth, joy and family spirit that make St Joseph’s so very special.

Following a correction to the scoring, St Joseph’s Team 2 were announced as the overall winners of Brain Olympia. This outstanding result reflects the dedication, persistence and teamwork of our students. Remarkably, in the 26 years this competition has been running, it is the first time St Joseph’s has taken out the trophy - a truly historic win for our school!

The St Joseph’s Public Speaking Cup was another proud moment. Congratulations to our medal winners:

• Kindergarten – Kerry Muir Medal: Gypsy McKean
• Stage 1 – Mary Corcoran Medal: Lilly Price
• Stage 2 – Teresa Creighton Medal: Eleanor Brummell
• Stage 3 – St Joseph’s Public Speaking Cup: Charlie Schalk

A sincere thank you to our judges, Mrs Frances Parsons and Mrs Moira Munro and to our special guests, Mr Kerry Muir and Fr Thaddeus, for supporting this special event.

We also enjoyed a wonderful Grandparents and Grandfriends Day, beginning with a packed Church at Mass and continuing with a picnic brunch, races, tabloid activities and the much-loved Joey’s Gift - won by the very fast Leo Colley. I was especially moved by the number of grandparents and special friends who took the time to commend our students for the way they care for one another, our staff for their deep commitment to nurturing our young people and the unmistakable ‘vibes’ and ‘positive culture’ that they felt so clearly throughout the day.

In sport, nearly 70 Stage 2 and 3 students represented St Joseph’s yesterday with pride at the Armidale Catholic Schools Gala Day in Inverell, competing in soccer and netball. From all accounts, their sportsmanship and enthusiasm were outstanding. 

Finally, last night I had the privilege of attending the Glen Innes High School Year 12 Graduation, where many of our past students received special awards. We wish our Year 6, 2019 cohort every success as they approach the HSC and begin the next chapter of their lives.

As we close this term, I want to thank our students, staff and families for the dedication, effort and team spirit they bring to every opportunity. Together, we have continued to strengthen our commitment to faith, learning and wellbeing. I am immensely proud of the collective achievements of our St Joseph’s community.

Wishing everyone a safe and restful holiday.

May God bless you and your family.

Casey Chard

Principal