Principals Report

Dear Parents, Families and Friends,

I hope each of you enjoyed a wonderful holiday season, surrounded by the warmth of family and friends. Our staff and students have returned, and it is pleasing to witness the transition into our new routines. The enthusiasm and positive energy radiating from our staff and students are truly contagious. A warm welcome to our newest member, Achilles and his parents, Allyson and Tynan, who have recently joined our close-knit community.  We are delighted to have you as part of the St. Mary’s family and look forward to building lasting connections.

Our dedicated teaching staff has been hard at work, collaborating closely to plan and deliver evidence-based instruction to our students. This collaborative effort ensures that our students receive a high-quality education, tailored to meet their individual needs. 

A focus this year for St Mary’s is actively cultivating a growth mindset for our community. Embracing the principles of a growth mindset means fostering a belief that intelligence and abilities can be developed through dedication, perseverance, and hard work. Our educators encourage students to view challenges as opportunities for learning and emphasise the importance of resilience in the face of setbacks. This approach not only instils a sense of optimism and enthusiasm for learning but also empowers students to take on new and challenging tasks with confidence. The benefits of a growth mindset extend beyond academic success, promoting a lifelong love for learning, increased motivation, and the development of essential life skills such as problem-solving and adaptability. As a result, in our school community, we aim to inspire all members to reach their full potential, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and achievement.

Together, as partners in education, we will continue to foster an environment where our students thrive academically, socially, and spiritually. I extend my gratitude for your ongoing support and commitment to St Mary’s.  The collaborative efforts of our dedicated staff, engaged students, and supportive families set the stage for a wonderful year filled with growth, learning, and achievements.

Last night marked a significant milestone for our school as we eagerly hosted our first information evening in four years. The event witnessed an overwhelming turnout, with a diverse and engaged audience comprising parents, guardians, students and community members. The evening provided a valuable platform to spotlight the dedicated efforts of our teachers and educators in addressing the unique needs of each student. The comprehensive program included a detailed presentation on our cutting-edge Science of Reading Literacy program, an exploration of various subject areas, insights into our assessment methodologies, and the dissemination of essential information pertaining to the school's ethos and future initiatives. The atmosphere was vibrant and collaborative, fostering a sense of community involvement and shared commitment to educational excellence. Following the informative session, the festivities continued with a community BBQ, attracting a large crowd. The success of the evening not only reflected the school's commitment to transparency and communication but also reinforced the strong bonds within our school community.

Starting this Friday, we are thrilled to announce the commencement of both swimming and gym activities. Our students will have the opportunity to dive into the refreshing world of swimming, honing their aquatic skills and fostering a love for a healthy, active lifestyle. Additionally, the gym sessions will provide a dynamic space for students to engage in various physical activities, promoting fitness, teamwork, and overall well-being.