From the Deputy Principal

Gratitude 

As the term draws to a close, students are busy applying what they have learnt to assessment tasks across the curriculum. It has been a memorable term with many activities including Pillars experiences, Junior School Water Safety, community service initiatives, excursions, carnivals and cocurricular pursuits.  Next week, the Year 6 students will travel to Canberra which will be an exciting and educational experience as they immerse themselves in the political, historical and cultural aspects of Australia’s capital.

I would like to highlight one significant event from the weekend – Relay for Life. Congratulations to the Year 11 and 12 students who participated in this year's Relay for Life at the Domain Athletic Centre, along with students from both the Junior and Senior Schools. Within a four-week period, the Year 11 and 12 students raised more than $5,000 which was an amazing effort. 

Thank you to the staff who also walked the track alongside the students starting at 1.00 pm on Saturday and concluding at 9.00am on Sunday morning. The students clearly demonstrated what it means to be an active member of the local community, to look outward and to contribute in a meaningful way. 

Attendance policy 

Today, a comprehensive letter was sent to families via Connect providing details about the newly updated Attendance Policy for all Catholic Education Tasmania (CET) schools. The policy is linked below for your reference.    

Regular attendance is essential for your child’s success, academically, emotionally and socially. Attendance fosters valuable habits like discipline and time management, encourages problem-solving skills, and supports holistic development through co-curricular activities.

Catholic Education Tasmania has developed a series of infographics to support students and families. These resources provide clear guidance on the benefits of daily attendance. 

The Junior and Senior Directors, in conjunction with Pastoral Care and/or Class Teachers, Year Level Coordinators, House Leaders and Deputy Directors, oversee the monitoring of student absenteeism. Unexplained, unauthorised or concerning patterns of behaviour will be followed up by the Classroom or Pastoral Care Teacher. Additionally, families will receive a letter notifying them that their child has accrued a certain number of absences from school. 

We ask that you support your young person by setting a consistent daily routine, encourage a love for learning, stay in touch with her teachers, engage in her education and school events.  It is important to promote positive interactions, address health issues promptly, and celebrate achievements. 

We understand that there are sometimes extenuating circumstances.  If your child is experiencing difficulties, pastorally and academically, or school refusing, we encourage you to reach out as soon as possible so we can work together to support your child. 

SchoolTV | Cybersafety

During the upcoming term break, students may spend more time on their devices.  Therefore, it is timely that SchoolTV’s Cybersafety series is now available. Click here to view the online resources.

Young people today are growing up in an increasingly connected world where technology is part of their everyday lives – for learning, socialising and entertainment. While the digital world offers enormous benefits, it also comes with serious risks. From cyberbullying and online predators to inappropriate content and screen time concerns, navigating the online environment can be challenging for young people and their families.

Cybersafety is not just about blocking access – it's about empowering young people with the knowledge and skills they need to use technology responsibly and safely. This includes understanding privacy settings, recognising scams and developing healthy digital habits. At the same time, it's important for parents and carers to stay informed, have open and judgement-free conversations with their children and lead by example through positive online behaviour.

In today's digital age, safeguarding a child's wellbeing must also include protecting their online life. This edition of SchoolTV will help you better understand the digital landscape your child is navigating and offer practical strategies to help them stay safe, confident and in control online.

Easter break

May the Easter season bring renewal and hope to your family. We hope the holiday period provides you with much-needed rest and relaxation. Please note that the final day of Term1 for students is Thursday 10 April. Term 2 will commence on Tuesday 29 April.