Junior School

As we reach the halfway point of the school year, it is fitting to pause and reflect on God's goodness and faithfulness. Throughout Scripture, God's people were encouraged to remember His mighty works and His gracious provision. One of the ways they did this was by erecting memorial stones—visible reminders of God's help and faithfulness.

After the Lord miraculously brought the nation of Israel through the Jordan River into the Promised Land, Joshua instructed twelve men to take twelve stones from the riverbed and set them up as a memorial. He explained their purpose: “that this may be a sign among you… when your children ask… ‘What do these stones mean to you?’” (Joshua 4:6). The stones would serve as a testimony to future generations that God had faithfully led His people and fulfilled His promises.

Later, after the Lord delivered Israel from the Philistines, Samuel set up a stone and named it Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the LORD has helped us” (1 Samuel 7:12). It was a simple but profound declaration that God's faithfulness in the past gave confidence for the future.

As we conclude Semester 1, perhaps this is an opportunity for each of us to pause and set up our own “memorial stones”—not physical monuments, but moments of remembrance. We can look back and thank God for His provision, His guidance, the friendships formed, the learning accomplished, and the many ways He has sustained our school community. Even in challenges and uncertainties, we can testify with Samuel, “Thus far the LORD has helped us.”

It is a privilege to be part of a Christian community where staff begin each day by gathering together in worship and opening God's Word. These daily moments are a reminder that Christ is at the centre of all we do and that our dependence is upon Him. One of the songs we often sing together is Goodness of God. At present, it is my favourite worship song because it so beautifully captures a profound truth. The words, "All my life You have been faithful, All my life You have been so, so good,” serve as a powerful testimony to the character of our God. As we reflect on the first half of 2026, I am sure many of us can echo those same words with grateful hearts.

ROAR Award

Our 2026 theme, Following the Way, reminds us that Jesus Christ is not only the destination, but also the One who walks beside us each day. As we have seen throughout Term 2, our students have continued to grow in kindness, perseverance, curiosity, and in their understanding of what it means to follow Christ in both word and deed.

During Chapel in Week 10, we had the joy of recognising students who have consistently demonstrated the core values of ROAR—Respect, Obedience, Acceptance, and Resilience. These qualities are an important part of who we are as a school, and it is always encouraging to see them lived out in practical ways.

We extend our congratulations to the students who received ROAR awards this term. Your quiet leadership, kind choices, and steadfast attitude have set a Christ-like example for your peers. Thank you for modelling the heart of our school values so well.

Term 2 and Beyond

The final weeks of Term 2 have been filled with wonderful opportunities to celebrate student learning and creativity. Our Junior School Ensemble Evening was a joyful occasion, showcasing the talents of our choirs and instrumental groups while highlighting the dedication of our music students and staff. In the classroom, our Prep: Imaginary Animal Habitat Expo, Years 3-4: My Island Home Expo, and the Years 5-6: Travel Expo provided students with the chance to exhibit the depth of their learning throughout the term. These events not only reflected strong academic achievement but also allowed students to grow in confidence as they presented to an audience. We sincerely thank the many parents and family members who attended and supported these celebrations of student effort and achievement.

As we look ahead to Term 3, we do so with great anticipation, trusting that God will continue to guide our journey. A particular highlight will be our Junior School production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang JR., to be held at LMC on the evenings of Wednesday 9 September and Thursday 10 September. All Prep – Year 6 students will participate, and we look forward to seeing students shine on stage in a celebration of student talent, teamwork, and creativity.

In addition to the evening performances, we are pleased to announce we are introducing a matinee performance on Wednesday 9 September at 11.30am. This additional performance will provide greater flexibility for families and help ensure that all who would like to attend have the opportunity to secure tickets.

Please put these dates in your diary today and look out for further information regarding performance times and ticket sales in Term 3. We look forward to sharing this exciting event with our school community.

Volunteer Induction Session

We warmly invite parents who have not yet been involved in volunteering within our Junior School or need a refresher to attend our upcoming Junior School Volunteer Induction Session on Tuesday 28 July at 9.00am in the Upper Primary Building Theatre. This session is essential for those wishing to become approved volunteers and will outline the responsibilities and requirements for supporting our students and staff in various capacities. All necessary information regarding the approval process can be found in the notice published on the school app. We value and appreciate the partnership of our parent community and look forward to welcoming new volunteers into this important aspect of school life.

Semester 2 Parent-Teacher Interviews 

Staff, including our specialist teachers, look forward to meeting with parents in Term 3 to discuss Semester 1 reports and ways to support student learning at school and home. Parent-teacher interviews will be held onsite in Junior School on Wednesday 12 August (4.00pm - 8.30pm) and Thursday 13 August (10.00am - 4.00pm). Please note that Thursday 13 August, is a Student-Free Day. 

As students and families head into the winter holidays, my prayer is that this break will provide opportunities for rest, renewal, and precious time together. May we continue to fix our eyes on Jesus, who said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life,” confident that the God who has faithfully sustained us throughout the first half of the year will continue to lead and provide for us in the months ahead.

We wish all our families a safe and blessed winter break and look forward with anticipation to all that God has in store for us in Term 3.

I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds. Psalm 77:11-12

Mrs Amy Liddle

Head of Junior School