Saint Francis Xavier - Principal's Report

Term 1 - Week 6

Dear Parents and Friends of St Francis Xavier,

Now that we are well into the season of Lent, we are reminded that this sacred time invites us to pause, reflect and grow. As we continue our journey toward Easter, we are encouraged to follow the example of Jesus through prayer, fasting and almsgiving. At school, our students are learning that Lent is not only about giving something up, but also about taking something up — choosing kindness, practising patience, including others and showing compassion. Even though we are weeks into the season, it is never too late to refocus our hearts. May the remainder of this Lenten journey be a time of renewal as we prepare for the joy of Easter.

Story Time at S.F.X

Do you have a child who is coming to SFX next year or even the year after?

If so, we would love it if you can join us for Story Time in our school library next Tuesday 10th March. There will also be further opportunities throughout the year where our future students can gather together, so keep an eye out for invitations.

Term One Sessions: March 10th and 31st at 10:00-10:45am.

Please see the attached flyer for registration.

NAPLAN Testing

On Wednesday 16th, Thursday 17th and Friday 18th of March, our Year 3 and Year 5 students will participate in NAPLAN (National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy).

These assessments provide a snapshot of student progress in literacy and numeracy and help to inform our teaching and our planning. At S.F.X, we approach NAPLAN calmly and confidently. It is one measure of learning but far from the whole story. Our focus remains on consistent, explicit teaching, strong feedback, and ensuring every child feels supported and prepared. We encourage students to simply do their best. We encourage them to approach each session with a steady mindset, and remember that their growth and effort are what matter most. Thank you for ensuring your child is well rested and present during the testing window.

Welcome Picnic

We look forward to welcoming all students and their families to school on Thursday 19th March from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm for our Welcome Picnic.

Families can bring their own snacks and drinks, however there will be food and drink for sale. There will also be a cake stall, market stalls to visit, and tattoos for the kids. There will be a large jumping castle for S.F.X students and younger siblings. Please bring gold coins and $5 notes if possible, as we will struggle to provide change for larger notes.

I need to remind all families that, due to Child Safety regulations, this will be an alcohol-free event.

It is also important to note that students cannot be dropped off at the Welcome Picnic and left alone. This is a family event, and all students (and siblings) must have parental supervision at all times while on the school grounds.

Easter Raffle

The SRC will be running our Easter Raffle fundraiser over the next few weeks.

There will be a Free Dress day on Tuesday 10th March in exchange for Easter donations.

Donations of Easter eggs or Easter related items such as decorations, toys and crafts, will be collected throughout Week 7 and 8. Your donations will support the SRC to make up some amazing prize packs for our raffle!

Raffle tickets will be available for sale at the Family Picnic, and during week 9 and 10. The Raffle will be drawn on the last day of the term.

Subway Orders

Just a reminder to all families that Subway can be ordered for student lunches every Wednesday.

Orders must be in by: 12:00 PM on Tuesday (24 hours before) — set a reminder on your phone so you don’t forget! If you order after this time, they will add a $1 fee.
Register here: canteenhub.com.au/register-customer
Need to cancel? No worries! Just head to your profile on canteenhub.com.au before the cut-off time.
Need help? Email at help@canteenhub.com

International Women's Day

On Sunday 8th March, we celebrate International Women’s Day.

I would like to take this opportunity to recognise and celebrate the incredible women within our S.F.X community — our dedicated staff, mothers, grandmothers, carers and parishioners. The resilience, insight, kindness and leadership you show each and every day enrich our school in countless ways. I am deeply thankful for the generosity of spirit you bring to St Francis Xavier Primary School Frankston, and for the positive, community-minded way you share your gifts with those around you.

As a school committed to Growing Hearts, Guiding Minds and Making a Difference, we are continually strengthened by the influence of women — in our homes, our classrooms, in positions of leadership and through the many quiet acts of service that often go unseen. Your example shapes our children, and your care sustains our community. Thank you for all that you give and all that you inspire in others.

Have a wonderful day on Sunday!

Steve Peart

School Principal

John Paul College