School News

Dear Families,

As we rapidly approach the end of the school year, we would like to take a moment to celebrate and thank our outstanding Year 6 cohort for a truly remarkable seven years at Galilee. This group of students has been an extra-special part of our community, leaving a lasting impression on our school and all who have had the pleasure of teaching them.

Our Year 6 students have shown strength and resilience from the very beginning—navigating home learning during COVID with determination and a positive spirit. Over the years, they have excelled across all areas of school life: from sport to the performing arts, from leadership roles to academic achievement. Their outstanding participation in STEM based learning showcased their ability to think critically, creatively, and with a forward-looking mindset.

What has truly set this cohort apart, however, is their character. They have demonstrated outstanding friendship, collaboration, and compassion; always looking out for one another and for younger students across the school. They brought fresh ideas and boundless enthusiasm, constantly striving to make Galilee an even better place for everyone.

Bold, cheeky, fun, and full of heart, our 2025 Year 6 students have all made us incredibly proud. We wish them every success as they take their next steps into secondary school, and we thank them for the joy, leadership, and energy they have contributed to our community.

Congratulations, Year 6, you will always be a cherished part of Galilee.

As we farewell our Year 6 students, we also take this moment to reflect on and celebrate our incredible Prep – Year 5 students, who have blown us away with their growth, enthusiasm, and commitment throughout the year. Each and every one of them has shown a passion for learning and a determination to continue improving, no matter the challenge.

This year, we have watched our students shine; on stage, on the sporting field, and in the classroom. We have seen them courageously step out of their comfort zones, trying new experiences, embracing opportunities, and giving their very best. We have watched friendships flourish, acts of kindness multiply, and students support one another with genuine care.

Most importantly, we have seen them lead with their hearts. Whether through teamwork, creativity, or everyday moments of generosity, our Prep – Year 5 students have shown what it means to be part of a strong and compassionate school community.

We are incredibly proud of all they have achieved this year and look forward to seeing them continue to grow, learn, and shine in 2026.

Galilee Christmas Carols

Tonight we are gathering together for our Christmas Carols. The Christmas Carols will go from 4:30-6:30pm. The Carols will be in the stadium and the BBQ and bouncy castel will be on the playground. 

We are very excited to see each one of our students up on stage singing with their classmates. The songs tonight will tell the Christmas story. We will also have a sausage sizzle, soft drinks and zooper doopers for sale and there will even be a bouncy castel. The night promises to be a wonderful night filled with community spirit and Christmas cheer. Thank you to the staff for organising and running this event for our community. We really are very lucky to have such a wonderful staff who go above and beyond for our students and community.

This year, we are proudly supporting St Vincent de Paul by raising funds (see QR code) for Kmart vouchers to help families in the community facing hardship this Christmas. We also welcome unwrapped gift donations for the Father Bob Foundation and non-perishable food donations for the Friars Kitchen. This will continue until Monday. 

We look forward to seeing you all there.

Principal Jack for the Day - Friday 12th December

Tomorrow, Jack will be stepping into the role of Principal for the day. Principal Jack has a strong focus on student engagement and has set up the day to ensure every student has the best time possible. Please see below what our students can look forward to tomorrow.

Friday 12th December

• All students can wear casual clothes
• Jack will share a snake lolly for every student on arrival 
• Jack will make sure that all students have an extra long lunch break
• Jack has arranged for every students to receive a Zooper Dooper

We are very much looking forward to a day under the direction of Principal Jack. 

Semester Two Student Reports

Students Reports will be available tomorrow, Friday 12th December, at approximately 4pm. We will send a Dojo to our community when they have been uploaded. 

Assembly Tomorrow

Tomorrow we will hold our school assembly outside on the blue basketball court. Tomorrow assembly will begin at approximately 2:50pm. Our stadium will be closed so that it can be set up for our Year 6 Graduation.

End of Year Whole School Liturgy

On Monday 15th December at 9:15am, we will all be heading to Ss. Peter and Paul Church for our end of year liturgy. At the liturgy, we will farewell our Year 6 students and staff who are leaving us at the end of the year. At the liturgy we will witness a candle ceremony between Year 6 and Year 5 and we will introduce you all to our 2026 Year 6 Student Leaders. Families and friends are welcome to join us at Ss. Peter and Paul. 

Year 6 Graduation

Our Year 6 Graduation will be held on Monday 16th December, beginning with a Graduation Mass at St Peter and Paul’s at 5:30pm, followed by a celebratory dinner with our Year 6 students and their families. Thank you to the staff and parents who have been busy planning and preparing for this special occasion. 

Nforma will replace Operoo in 2026

As you may already be aware, Galilee will no longer be using Operoo. Moving forward, we will be implementing Nforma to manage all medical information, permission slips, attendance records, and student reports. We believe this transition will streamline our processes and provide greater convenience for families, as there will now be a single platform for all student information.

To prepare for this change, we kindly ask all families to download the Nforma Parents App. This app will enable parents to receive notifications when permission slips are issued, notifications when students visit the sick bay, and notifications when student medical information requires updating. It will also be used to notify the school of student absences—simply click on the relevant tile within the app to notify the school of a student absence and select the appropriate reason.

We encourage all parents to download the Nforma App as soon as possible to ensure a smooth and efficient transition.

New VPass Sign-In at our front office

We are pleased to share that Galilee has introduced a new VPass Sign-In system for our check-in process for visitors, volunteers, and students arriving late or leaving early. This system is directly connected to our attendance roll, helping us maintain accurate and up-to-date attendance information throughout the school day.

When using the system:

• Students arriving late or departing early should select the “Student” button.
• Parents, volunteers, and visitors are asked to use the “Visitors” button when signing in.

We thank all families and visitors for supporting this improved process as we continue to strengthen the safety and efficiency of our school operations.

Galilee Running Club

This year has been a very successful year for our Galilee Running Club, with participation numbers increasing and running distances exceeding expectations. We would like to thank Jason Burke, Dom Barker, Mike Pavey, Liam Hale, Scott Hanlon, Ange Crooke, Tim Kerr and Tina O’Rourke for their dedication each week, organising our running club and to each and every student who showed up week upon week to join in the fun. The graphic below shows the outstanding achievements of our running club students. 

Thank you to our 2025 Parent Reps

We would like to take this opportunity to thank our outstanding Parent Reps: Sarah Geason, Mel Pappalardo, Una Desmond, Kara Shields, Deborah Sweeney, Kate Hanlon, Jennifer Schumann, Elizabeth Rix, Jenni Robinson, Tammy Hancock, Rachel DeLiva, Rebecca Gargano, Jolene McKenzie, and Megan Hennessy. They have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that Galilee remains a welcoming, friendly, and inclusive community. Thank you for the incredible contribution you have made this year. We are very fortunate to have you and are deeply grateful for the work that you have done. 

Year Level Parent Reps for 2026

We are calling for nominations for our 2026 Year Level Parent Representatives. Parent Reps play an important role in helping to create a warm, welcoming and connected school community here at Galilee. We are very grateful to the parents who volunteer their time to take on this important role. 

If you would like to nomintate yourself for this role in 2026, please complete the Year Level Representatives Application Form. Please email a completed application form to admin@gsm.vic.edu.au by Tuesday 16th December. Please title the email: 2026 Parent Rep Application. 

Please see other documents relevant to the role: 

• Year Level Representative Registration Form *to be completed once application has been accepted
• Year Level Representative Role Description - Code of Conduct
• Parent Communication Group Guidelines  

Please note that as this role is a Year Level Representative position (not a class representative) your child’s 2026 class allocation has no bearing.

In situations where a year level does not have any applications, the school will approach parents/guardians on a more direct basis in order for new volunteers to take up the vacancy. In such instances, a role share or role term rotation may be created.

School Advisory Council

We would like to sincerely thank the members of the School Advisory Council, Carlo Pizzini, Eleanor McGrath, Dominic Barker, Mark Shaw, Allan Menagh, Richard Harding, and Holly Evans, for their dedication and hard work throughout the year. Their guidance has helped us enhance communication, explore the establishment of a Galilee Basketball Club, refine our approach to Year 6 student leadership, and develop a plan for ongoing building maintenance. The Council has been an outstanding group of parents to work with, each bringing a strong commitment to improving Galilee. We greatly value their voices, expertise, and ongoing focus on school improvement. A special thank you to Carlo Pizzini, the Chair of the School Advisory Council, for his ongoing commitment and dedication, and to Allan Menagh, who will be stepping off the Council at the end of this year, for his exceptional service and leadership.

Last Day of the 2025 school year

For students in Prep - Year 5, Tuesday the 16th of December will be the last day of the 2025 school year. Students will finish at 1:30pm. GOSH is open from 1:30pm. Please book your children in using the TheirCare website if you intend to use this service. 

Please note, Year 6 students will finish on Monday 15th December at 1pm. 

Looking ahead to the first two weeks of the 2026 school year

Week 1. 2026

Tuesday, January 27th- Student Free School Closure Day 

Wednesday, January 28th- Student Free School Closure Day

Thursday, January 29th- First day of school for our Year 1-6 students. 

Thursday, January 29th - Prep Meet the Teacher Interviews

Friday, January 30th- First day of school for our Prep students. 

Week 2, 2026

Wednesday, February 4th- Year 1-6 Meet the Teacher Interviews (normal school day for students).

Wednesday, February 4th- No school for Prep students. 

Other Term 1 dates you may need to know

Term 1 Camp Dates

Year 5 Camp - Tuesday 24th February - Friday 27th February

Year 4 Camp - Monday 2nd March - Wednesday 4th March

Term 1 School Closure Dates

Tuesday, January 27th- Student Free School Closure Day 

Wednesday, January 28th- Student Free School Closure Day

Friday, March 6th - Student Free School Closure Day

We encourage you to look at our school calendar as it contains important dates for the 2026 school year. We will provide you with a more detailed Term 1 calendar in a letter to all families that will be sent in the second half of January. 

Under 16 Social Media Ban

Families may be aware of the social media ban for children under 16.  To encourage parents to remain informed and continue to prioritise safe, healthy digital habits at home, information can be found on the esafety website https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents/social-media-age-restrictions/get-ready-guide .

Staffing Update

We are sadly saying goodbye to a few staff members who will be leaving us at the end of the year. Our heartfelt thanks go to these staff, whose commitment, passion and care have made a lasting impact on our students, families and school community. 

Julianne Price- We would like to recognise Julianne Price, an exceptional educator whose dedication has shaped students, families and colleagues for more than five decades. Since joining Galilee in 1998, she has played a fundamental role in building our Galilee school community through her compassion and unwavering commitment. Across roles ranging from classroom teacher to wellbeing leader, literacy intervention specialist and deputy principal, Julianne Price consistently gave her time, energy and heart to support those around her, making meals for families in need, attending events and going above and beyond in countless ways. As she retires, we express our deepest gratitude for her extraordinary service and wish her a retirement filled with joy, fulfilment and time with loved ones.

Sebastian Greene- We would like to acknowledge Seb Greene for his outstanding contribution as our Sport Teacher and Coordinator. His humour, energy and passion for sport have brought joy and confidence to our students, creating an environment where everyone feels encouraged to give their best. Seb’s commitment to sporting excellence, combined with his ability to make every lesson engaging and fun, has made a lasting impact on our school community. 

Adrian Webster- We extend our thanks to Adrian Webster for his exceptional leadership as our Maths Leader. His passion for inquiry learning has inspired both students and staff, fostering curiosity and confidence across the school. Through initiatives such as Maths Clubs, Adrian has created opportunities for students to explore, question and excel. We are grateful for his dedication and wish him every success as he takes the next step in his career.

Brighid Deamer- We offer our heartfelt thanks to Brighid Deamer, who has contributed to our school in so many meaningful ways through her roles in Community Partnerships, STEM leadership, Learning Diversity and numerous classroom positions. Brighid’s dedication is unwavering, she is always ready to help, always willing to step in and always focused on what is best for students. We are deeply grateful for her remarkable contributions and wish her every happiness and fulfilment as she embarks on the ​​exciting opportunities ahead.

Mikaila Greenan- We would like to thank Mikaila Greenan, who began her journey with us as a graduate teacher and went on to lead Digital Technology with creativity and enthusiasm. Her engaging presence, whether in the classroom, MC-ing school events or bringing her theatrical flair to every opportunity, has left a lasting impression on students and staff alike. Mikaila’s energy and dedication have enriched our school community in countless ways. We wish her every success and happiness as she travels around the world. 

Wendy Dalton- We warmly thank Wendy Dalton, the welcoming face of our school since 2008, who has supported students, families and staff with care. From first aid to finance to “bird catcher” and so much more, Wendy has been ready to step in wherever needed.  Beyond her roles, Wendy has quietly done so much good, always looking out for others and making a real difference in the lives of those around her. Her commitment and warmth have made a lasting impact on our community. We wish Wendy all the very best as she moves on to the next chapter of her life.

Cate James- We warmly thank Cate James for her dedication in our school office, where her friendly and welcoming nature has made a lasting impression on students, families and staff alike. Cate’s care and warmth have been a constant presence in our community. As she retires, we express our heartfelt gratitude for all she has contributed and wish her happiness, health and fulfilment in this well-deserved next chapter of her life.

Carmen Carnovale- We sincerely thank Carmen Carnovale for her contributions across so many areas of our school. From teaching Performing Arts and leading school productions to acting as Deputy Principal, leading Religious Education, coordinating Maths intervention and building strong community partnerships, Carmen’s energy, organisation and dedication have been remarkable. Her ability to manage events and inspire students has left a lasting mark on our school community. We wish Carmen every success and happiness as she embarks on the next stage of her journey.

As we say goodbye to these valued staff members, we also look forward with excitement to the next chapter of our school year. We would like to welcome the following staff members to our Galilee Community: 

Liam Buckley will be joining us in 2026 as a Learning Diversity Teacher and classroom teacher. Liam has extensive experience leading and teaching in schools across Melbourne. Liam has previously been Deputy Principal at MacKillop Specialist School, Principal at St. Joseph’s Blackrock and has held numerous teaching and leadership positions at Primary Schools across Melbourne. He has a passion for inclusive education and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to flourish within our school community. He can’t wait to work with the students, families and staff at Galilee. 

Charlotte Drake will be joining us in 2026 as a Physical Education Teacher. Charlotte is a graduate teacher who has been working at Wesley College coordinating their Year 5 & 6 interschool Netball and Tennis program, Melbourne Girls Grammar coaching interschool sports teams and Williamstown SLSC coaching swimming and instructing water safety programs. She has a passion for teaching physical education and is looking forward to working with the students, staff and families at Galilee.

Kevin McGinley will be joining us in 2026 as a Year 2 teacher. Kevin comes to Galilee from Ireland. He has extensive experience teaching Junior primary classes. He has been in Australia teaching for the past year and can’t wait to join the Galilee community. He has a love of music and a keen interest in making learning real, relevant and engaging. Kevin is so excited to meet the Year 2 students and families.

Fiona Allan will be joining us in 2026 as a Year 1 teacher. Fiona comes to Galilee from Scotland. She has been working for the past year in a large school in Truginnina, West of Melbourne, as a Year 1 teacher. She was drawn to Galilee because of the community and the large range of opportunities outside the traditional classroom setting. She has extensive experience teaching junior primary and a passion for integrating learning opportunities so that students can make connections between learning areas. Fiona can’t wait to meet the Year 1 students and families.

Catherine Lennon will be joining us in 2026 as a Prep teacher. Catherine comes to us from Ireland. She has been working for the past year in a large school in Epping, North of Melbourne, as a Prep teacher. She has a passion for teaching junior primary and is thrilled to be teaching Prep next year. Catherine has a love of music and an interest in making sure our Prep students are given access to the foundational knowledge that they will need to flourish in Primary School.

Alana McGuirk has been working at Galilee this past term as our Art Teacher, while Linda has been on leave. Alana will be moving into the Year 2 teaching team in 2026. Alana’s passion is classroom teaching and she is thrilled to be teaching a Year 2 class next year. She has extensive experience teaching middle primary school classes in Ireland and a keen interest in STEM education. We are thrilled that Alana will be staying with us in 2026. She is very excited about working with the Year 2 students, families and staff. 

Niamh McCague will be teaching Art in Term 1 while Linda Florenca Grillo is on leave. Niamh joined Galilee as a Year 4 teacher this term. We are thrilled Niamh will continue at Galilee for Term 1 before she heads back to Ireland half way through the year. 

With this being our final newsletter for 2025, we would like to leave you with a special Christmas blessing:

May the miracle of Christ’s birth bring joy, peace, and love to your hearts this Christmas. May His light guide you, His love surround you,and His hope inspires you throughout the coming year. Wishing our students, families and staff a blessed and joyful Christmas season.

Thank you to each person in our school community for the important part you each played in making 2025 a fabulous year at Galilee. We extend our warmest wishes to you and your family for a joyful Christmas season and a safe, restful holiday period.

To our Year 6 students, we wish you every success as you journey into Secondary School. You will be greatly missed, and we are incredibly proud of all you have achieved.

To the staff and families who are leaving us at the end of this year, thank you for your contribution to our community. We wish you every success as you embark on new adventures.

To all other students and their families, we look forward to welcoming you back in 2025 for what promises to be another exciting and rewarding year at Galilee.

Wishing you peace, joy, and blessings this Christmas and always.

-Amy Burns (Principal), Richard Harding (Deputy Principal), Holly Evans (Deputy Principal)