Dear members of the St. Cecilia’s School community,

(I would like to share a copy of my return letter to the community from last week).

It is with immense joy and gratitude that I write to you today, as I prepare to return to our beautiful school after a period of absence due to health concerns.

First and foremost, I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to each and every one of you for your unwavering support, prayers, gifts and well-wishes during my time away. Your kindness and understanding have been a source of tremendous strength for me and my family, and I am deeply touched by the outpouring of love and concern that you have shown.

As I sit down to write this message, my heart is filled with gratitude and reflection. The simple task of writing a Parent Update not only reminds me that I am returning to work, but it highlights my newfound delight in returning to the little things that I possibly took for granted. Whilst part of me wonders how long that will last, I honestly believe that this kind of stuff can change outlooks and who knows - might be the catalyst for a new beginning that I needed. I truly hope that each of you has had a restful and peaceful break with your families, filled with moments of calm and rejuvenation as much as possible.

As I reflect on the journey that has led me back to this moment, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and renewed purpose. The challenges I faced during my time away have only deepened my commitment to our school community and strengthened my resolve to serve you all to the best of my abilities.

I cannot begin to express the depth of my appreciation for the incredible leadership demonstrated by Matt and Kate in my absence. They, combined with the leadership team consisting of Annmaree Hoy, Marnie Chapman and Tracey Toner have been enormously productive and supportive of one another and the community. Their dedication and tireless efforts have not only kept the school running smoothly but have nurtured its growth and development. This is also true of Lucy and Sharon, who continue to be the best admin team in Melbourne. Profoundly professional and always going over and above to ensure a sense of welcome and calm. To Matt, Kate, Lucy and Sharon, I owe a debt of gratitude beyond words.

Returning to work is not just a professional milestone for me; it is a deeply personal triumph. It is a testament to the power of faith, hope, and resilience in the face of adversity. It is a reminder that even in our darkest moments, we are never alone, and that with faith and perseverance, we can overcome any obstacle that stands in our way.

As I step back into the role of principal, I do so with a renewed sense of energy, enthusiasm, and dedication. I am excited to reconnect with each and every one of you and to support you in any way that I can.

Once again, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for your prayers, your kindness, and your unwavering support. I am truly blessed to be a part of this extraordinary school community, and I am excited to embark on this new chapter together with each and every one of you.

With warmest regards and deepest gratitude,

Marty

2025 Enrolment Process

Numbers are building rapidly for Foundation 2025

We have provided many school tours for prospective parents already this year for Foundation 2025. The level of enthusiasm and interest is enormously encouraging.

This note is simply a check in to see that we have accurate numbers of siblings that are intending to commence Foundation next year at St. Cecilia's. Several families have indicated that a sibling will be commencing but have not yet submitted an enrolment form. Please download and submit the 2025 Foundation Enrolment form directly from our school website.

If you have a child starting school in 2025 please ensure you have submitted your application form asap!

Online Application Form

Grade 4 Camp

We are thrilled to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the remarkable Year 4 students for their outstanding behaviour and positive attitude during their recent adventure to Sovereign Hill Camp. Amidst the rustic charm of Sovereign Hill, our students showcased exceptional maturity, enthusiasm, and resilience, embodying the spirit of exploration and learning.

School camps are an integral part of the educational journey, offering a myriad of benefits beyond the classroom walls. As our young learners ventured into the great outdoors, they embarked on a journey of self-discovery and experiential learning. Here are just a few of the many advantages of school camps:

1. Personal Growth: Camps provide a unique opportunity for students to step out of their comfort zones, fostering personal growth and self-confidence. By navigating new challenges and unfamiliar environments, students develop resilience and adaptability, essential skills for success in both academic and real-world settings.

2. Teamwork and Collaboration: Engaging in group activities and communal living promotes teamwork and collaboration among students. From negotiating shared cabin living, to participating in group challenges, students learn the value of cooperation, communication, and collective problem-solving.

3. Hands-on Learning: Camps offer hands-on learning experiences that complement and enrich classroom curriculum. Whether it's exploring historical sites like Sovereign Hill or committing to unfamiliar outdoor challenges, students gain a deeper understanding of concepts through real-world application.

4. Appreciation for Nature: Spending time in nature not only enhances physical health but also nurtures a sense of appreciation and care for the environment. Camps provide opportunities for students to connect with the natural world, fostering a lifelong love for outdoor activities and environmental conservation.

5. Social and Emotional Development: Camps encourage students to forge new friendships, build social skills, and develop empathy and understanding for others. The bonds formed during camp experiences often transcend the duration of the trip, creating lasting memories and friendships, that can set the tone for the year.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff who accompanied our students on this camp. I want to extend my sincerest gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering dedication, boundless energy, and genuine passion in making this camp such a memorable experience for our students. So to Jo Hurley, Kate Sutherland, Teresa Galgani, Donna Evans, Matt Mooney and Gavin Griffith - your commitment to ensuring that our students had an enriching and enjoyable time speaks volumes about your dedication to their overall growth and development.

Please see some Camp Reflections and photos in our What's Been Happening section of this newsletter.

Parents Association Upcoming Dates

Tuesday, 30th April Parent's Association Meeting, Term 2

Friday May 10 Mother's Day Breakfast

Friday May 24 School Disco

Saturday June 1 Parent's Mid-Year Function

Monday June 17 Whole School Athletics Day

Baptism

Are there any families who want to have a child baptised?

It might be a child at school, or it might be a younger child.

Through baptism, we become a follower of Jesus Christ and a member of the Catholic Church.

Baptism is required for a child to receive First Reconciliation in Year 3, First Communion in Year 4, and Confirmation in Years 5 or 6.

If you would like to have a child baptised, please contact Fr Kevin on:

(03) 9412 8418

or

camberwellsouth@cam.org.au

Important Dates for our Sacramental Years

We have now locked in all sacramental dates for the year. Specific information and details of our First Reconciliation program and events will be sent out next week.

Thursday May 9	7:00pm	Yr 3	Reconciliation	Family night
Sunday May 19	5:30pm	Yr 3	Reconciliation	Commitment Mass
Wed May 29 Thurs May 30	5:30pm 5:30pm	Yr 3	Reconciliation	Sacrament Ceremonies Sacrament Ceremonies
Friday July 26	7:00pm	Yr 5/6	Confirmation	Ceremony (at St Patrick’s Cathedral)
Wednesday July 31	7:00pm	Yr 4	Eucharist	Family night
Sunday August 11	5:00pm	Yr 4	Eucharist	Commitment Mass
Sunday September 8 Sunday September 15	10am & 5:30pm 10am & 5:30pm	Yr 4	Eucharist	Sacrament ceremonies

ANZAC Day

On Wednesday afternoon, we gathered as a school in the hall to remember, reflect and pray for ANZAC Day. It was a very reverent and meaningful moment in a busy week. These are the special moments of significance that are incredibly character forming in our our young people.

At St. Cecilia's, ANZAC Day holds profound importance as we strive to instil in our students the values of remembrance, gratitude, and respect. Here are a few reasons why remembering ANZAC Day is crucial in the primary school setting:

1. Learning History and Heritage: ANZAC Day provides a valuable opportunity for students to learn about Australian history, including the ANZACs' involvement in significant conflicts such as World War I. By understanding the sacrifices made by those who came before them, students gain a deeper appreciation for their country's heritage and the freedoms they enjoy today.

2. Fostering Empathy and Compassion: Through stories, discussions, and activities centered around ANZAC Day, students develop empathy and compassion for the veterans and their families. They learn to recognize the human cost of war and the importance of supporting those who have served and continue to serve their country.

3. Promoting Patriotism and Citizenship: ANZAC Day inspires students to reflect on the values of patriotism, citizenship, and service to others. By participating in commemorative ceremonies, laying wreaths, or observing moments of silence, students honor the legacy of the ANZACs and reaffirm their commitment to being responsible, contributing members of society.

4. Encouraging Reflection and Gratitude: ANZAC Day encourages students to reflect on the freedoms, liberties, and privileges they enjoy as Australians. It prompts them to express gratitude for the sacrifices made by the ANZACs and all those who have served in the defense of their country, fostering a sense of national pride and unity.

5. Passing on Traditions: ANZAC Day traditions, such as the Dawn Service, the Last Post, and the Ode of Remembrance, are passed down from generation to generation, ensuring that the memory of the ANZACs lives on. By participating in these traditions, students become custodians of remembrance, preserving the legacy of the ANZACs for future generations.

Thank you to all students and staff, for the manner in which they gathered to remember on Wednesday.

Lest we forget.

Staff Professional Development Day - Friday 26th April

We have students across all classes that we are aware do not learn or experience the world in a neurotypical way. Learning more about how we can support and understand these students better will undoubtedly add a great deal to our practice and the experience of school and the classroom for our students.

With this in mind, our staff has been involved in an enlightening and powerful Professional Development opportunity today, led by Carmel Corrigan. Carmel is an experienced primary school teacher, who for over a decade now, has specialised in supporting schools and families to understand, cater for and empower neurodiverse students.

The staff all walked away with a much greater appreciation of how challenging it can be for any student who expereinces the classroom and the world in a neurodivergent way. We look forward to implementing what we learnt today to further enhance the experience of not only our neurodiverse learners, but of all students at St Cecilia's.

Parent Digital Safety Seminar

Delivery: Community Webinar

Presenter: Martin McGauran & Carley McGauran

Date: Thursday 16 May 2024

Time: 7.30pm (90 mins)

To register for free click on the link below:

bit.ly/may16parents

Once you register (with an email address and name), you will be emailed a link to the webinar. You will also receive reminder emails. The following day, you will receive a link to access the replay. Therefore we recommend that even if parents are unable to attend the live webinar, they register to ensure they can access the replay which will be available for 30 days.

For a more detailed description of this session see the flyer on the STEM news page

School Disco - Change of Date: Friday May 24

This is just a quick reminder note to let you know that the School Disco date been updated to Friday May 24.

A big thank you to Claire Clark and Bona Dyrmishi who have kindly offered to coordinate the disco again this year. We look forward to another wonderful evening of music and dancing

STEAM Room and Library Update

We are delighted to announce that our brand new STEAM room is now up and running. We are holding Art lessons (Julie Drum - Art Teacher) and Digi Tech classes (Matt Mooney - Digi Tech leader) within this space. We have some furnishings and cabinetry to come, but our students are already getting a sense of how fantastic this new space will be.

Stay tuned for further information regarding an official opening of this new space together with an exciting new name for this space to be revealed.

Our reimagined Library is also taking shape and very nearly completed. We are enormously grateful to staff, parents and most of all Teresa Galgani, for their work in moving shelving and 1000's of books for the new carpet to be installed, and then putting back in place.

School Uniform Updates

A couple of new items have been included in our Uniform Shop. https://www.spartanschoolworld.com.au/collections/st-cecilias-primary-school

Please find attached a revised price list with the new girl’s pants option added.

The product is now live on the web and can be viewed at:

https://www.spartanschoolworld.com.au/collections/st-cecilias-primary-school/products/copy-of-stretchy-gabardine-pants-olinda

Marty McKenna

Principal

St Cecilia’s Primary School

Student of the Week Awards

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Term 1 Week 8