Saint Francis Xavier - Principal's Report

Term 1 - Week 7

Dear Parents and Friends of St Francis Xavier,

This week, our Grade 3 and 5 students completed the Writing and Reading NAPLAN tests, demonstrating great focus and perseverance. Next week, they will continue with the Conventions of Language and Numeracy tests. NAPLAN provides a snapshot of students' learning in key areas, helping to guide future teaching — but it’s important to remember that it’s just one of many ways we assess and celebrate student growth throughout the year. Congratulations to all our students for the wonderful effort they’ve shown so far — we are very proud of you!

Lent

As we journey through the second week of Lent, we are reminded that this season is an invitation to draw closer to God through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. It’s a time to reflect on Jesus' sacrifice and to renew our hearts in love and compassion for others. In our school community, we can embrace this by showing kindness to our classmates, helping those in need, and setting aside moments for quiet prayer. Lent isn’t just about giving things up — it’s about making room for God’s grace to grow within us.

This week, we also hold Pope Francis especially close in our prayers as he faces serious illness. Pope Francis often reminds us to live with mercy and tenderness, and his example continues to inspire us to be people of hope and peace. Let us pray for his strength and healing, asking God to watch over him and guide our Church during this time. May his words encourage us to walk through Lent with open hearts.

Help Needed: Church Tower Removal

Father Chinua has been informed that the extremely tall tower with the Cross on top, located in the church driveway, needs to be removed. He is hoping a family from one of our local Catholic schools may be able to provide a quote and assist with the removal. A crane would be required for this job. If you or someone you know can help, please contact the school, and we will pass on your details to Father Chinua.

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 Monday — set a reminder on your phone so you don’t forget!
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

Term Two Events

Term Two is already looking quite busy, and the calendar is filling up fast! Some of the exciting events students will participate in include:

First Communion for some of our Grade 4 students
Grade 3-6 Field Athletics at Ballam Park
Grade 6 leaders attending the ANZAC Day service at Beauty Park
Choir performance at Vasey RSL
School Photos
National Reconciliation Week
Grade 5/6 Winter Sport Lightning Premiership
District Cross Country

School Closure Days in Term 2

Please mark these school closure days in your calendars:

Friday 25th April – ANZAC Day Public Holiday
Monday 12th May – Staff Professional Development
Monday 9th June – King's Birthday Public Holiday
Tuesday 10th June – School Closure Day

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Steve Peart

School Principal

Harmony Day