Save the date:

Mathematics Parent Information Session with renowned specialist mathematics consultant, Michael Ymer.

Monday 24th March at 6:30pm - 8:00pm.

Childcare will be provided - a movie in the library.

Dear families,

As we prepare to celebrate St Patrick’s Day, it is fitting to reflect on the remarkable legacy of St Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and the deep connections his story holds to our school’s identity.

St Patrick, born in Britain in the late 4th century, was taken to Ireland as a young man where he endured years of hardship before escaping. However, he later returned, driven by a calling to bring the Christian faith to the Irish people. His mission was one of courage, resilience, and unwavering faith—values that continue to inspire our school community today.

In 2024, I had the privilege of joining principal colleagues from across the Ballarat Diocese on a Spiritual Heritage Pilgrimage to Ireland, visiting sacred sites connected to St Patrick’s life and mission. The Rock of Cashel, home to St Patrick’s Cross, stands as a powerful symbol of Ireland’s Christian heritage. This ancient site is believed to be where Patrick baptised the King of Munster, securing Christianity’s place in Ireland.

Our pilgrimage also led to Croagh Patrick, the mountain where St Patrick is said to have fasted for forty days in prayer. This place of pilgrimage represents the strength and commitment required to live out one’s faith — a message that resonates with our school’s mission. It was a challenging walk and I'm still amazed that pilgrims walk over the shaley rock in bare feet!

To honour our patron saint, we will gather as a school community on Monday, 17th March, for a Feast Day Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral, followed by a day of celebration at Kirk’s Reservoir. At the conclusion of the Mass, we will proudly present the Clare Madden Award for School Spirit to the 2025 recipients, recognising students who embody the values of faith, kindness, and leadership within our school.

St Patrick, pray for us!

March 17th - Students are encouraged to wear their sports uniform along with a touch of green.

Clare Madden Award for School Spirit

The Clare Madden Award for School Spirit recognises Senior students at Saint Patrick’s Primary School who uphold important values in our school, apparent in their interactions with others.

The qualities of care, love, acceptance, respect and empathy are evident in the behaviours and actions of these students. All students from year 5 & 6 are eligible to receive the award (including any students who may already hold other positions of leadership in our school). Students who have demonstrated these qualities in our school, on regular basis, have been nominated by our staff.

Mrs Clare Madden, a former staff member of Saint Patrick’s who has maintained a long association with our school for many years, wished to acknowledge outstanding students, who actively and consistently display these qualities, and are positive role models for other students. These students reflect the Spirit of our school.

Harmony Week: Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion

Next week, we look forward to celebrating Harmony Week, a time to recognise and embrace the rich diversity within our school and wider community. Harmony Week is about belonging, respect, and inclusivity, reinforcing the message that everyone belongs.

Throughout the week, students will take part in a variety of activities that celebrate different cultures and traditions, fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding.

We encourage families to check the Around the School section for further details on the exciting events planned for next week. We look forward to a wonderful celebration of harmony, culture, and community!

2026 Foundation Enrolments

2026 Foundation Enrolments are now open. If you have a child in kindergarten and you would like to secure a place for them in Foundation at St Patrick's in 2026, you need to follow the enrolment application process outlined on our website: www.spballarat.catholic.edu.au

Please note - this is for all enrolments including our current St Patrick's families. Applications close on 22nd May.

Invitation to the Official Opening of Our Capital Works

We are delighted to invite our school community to the Official Opening of the Capital Works at St Patrick’s Primary School. This special occasion will be led by Ms Catherine King MP and DOBCEL Executive Director, Mr Tom Sexton, marking an exciting milestone for our school.

Date: Friday, 28th March

Time: 9:30 AM

Staff, students, special guests, and families will gather for the opening ceremony, celebrating the transformation of our school facilities. Following the ceremony, we warmly welcome families and guests to Madden Hall for morning tea and the unveiling of the commemorative plaque.

This is a wonderful opportunity to come together as a community and acknowledge the incredible efforts that have brought this project to life. We look forward to seeing you there if you can make it.

Concussion – Important information to be aware of

If your child has experienced concussion outside of the school setting it is important that they rest for a period of 24 to 48 hours and then gradually return to activities after this time. Returning to school can be a graduated approach with the aim of increasing tolerance to a full day, the same situation could occur with sporting activities. It is always important to check with your doctor and seek medical treatment after a child sustains a concussion.

It is important to inform the school if your child has sustained a concussion outside of school; this is to ensure the school can monitor your child’s wellbeing and adapt activities as required.

This factsheet link below from the Royal Children’s Hospital is valuable to read and understand.

https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Head_injury_return_to_school_and_sport/

There is also a great evidence-based app from the Murdoch children’s research institute that walks you through what to do in the result of a concussion.

https://www.headcheck.com.au/

SchoolTV

This week on SchoolTV you will find additional resources available to gain greater insight into the importance of sleep and sleep habits.

"Children these days seem to be going to bed later and later. Distractions such as TV, computer games, internet, texting friends and social media are all having a negative impact on a child’s sleep time. Sleep is vital to a child’s wellbeing. When children sleep well, they are more settled, happier and ready for school the next day. Sleep also strengthens their immune systems, supports overall development and their ability to function properly on a daily basis. Children who do not get enough sleep show increased levels of aggressive behaviour, are less attentive and are much less active. Trying to catch up on sleep on weekends is not the answer and can still lead to severe sleep deprivation. Recent studies have shown than many children, especially teenagers, are missing out on vital REM sleep, which is particularly important for memory and learning."

Click on the link below to access a wealth of videos, articles, and resources on the aforementioned topics.

All Editions | St Patrick's School - Ballarat (schooltv.me)

Kind regards,

Ben Shields

School Calendar Term 1 2025-