A message from Denis

Newsletter Term 4 Week 8

Dear Parents and Carers,

We have come to the final newsletter of 2023 and what a great year it has been.  This brings a close to my first year as principal of St Mary’s and I feel much gratitude for being afforded the opportunity to serve this wonderful community and staff.  Thank you to each of you for your support of the school this year and the productive way you have engaged in our partnership of education for your children.

2024 School Captains

Congratulations to our newly elected 2024 St Mary's School Captains, Vice Captains and House Captains.  I am enthused by the pospect of working with these terrific young people in the leadership of the St Mary's community in 2024.

Planning for 2024

Last Monday we had a brilliant day of forecasting ahead to 2024 and spending time roadmapping out the learning journey that lies ahead.  Teachers worked in their new teams and were supported by School Leaders to develop an exciting plan for 2024 at St Mary's.

Farewell and best wishes

We bid farewell to Hannah Ryan (Grade 3 teacher), Melina Fairbairn and Chantelle Taylor at the end of this year.  Hannah is returning home to New Zealand to be closer to family, Chantelle has taken a position as an LSO closer to her own home and Melina is off to enjoy a well earned retirement.  We wish all three of them the best for what 2024 and beyond holds and thank them for the great work they have put in at St Mary’s.  God bless.

2024 Beginning of Year Dates

Next year, our Foundation students and students in years 1 to 6 will have a staggered start.

Foundation 2024's first day is Tuesday 30th of January.  Students in years 1 to 6 will begin on Wednesday 31st of January.  Many dates have been updated to the SMAV Parent calendar for 2024.

Sacrament dates are below:

• Reconciliation: August 29th
• First Communion: June 15th
• Confirmation: May 11th

More information to follow next year.

Senior Parishioners  Mass

A group of our students greeted the senior parishoners of St Mary's as they left mass with a Christmas wish and cookie to celebrate the end of the year.  Thank you to our canteen staff for making the delicious cookies and to our students for helping spread the spirit of Christmas cheer.

Staffing for 2024

Your children have the opportunity to meet their new class this week and their new teachers, helping smooth the transition to the new school year.

Please find a list of classroom teachers for 2024.

Merry Christmas and God Bless to you and your families.  I hope you have a restful break and enjoy the family time together.

Looking forward to a terrific 2024.

Stay safe, stay healthy, stay connected,

Denis Johnstone

Principal