Principal's Report 

Happy St Patrick's Day

As we begin our Harmony Day celebrations this week, I highlight the cultural heritage of the Irish Catholics in our community who celebrate the legacy of St Patrick on 17 March. On St Patrick’s Day, we commemorate the arrival of Christianity in Ireland and reflect on the profound impact of St Patrick’s teachings which have travelled around the world through the many religious orders of brothers, sisters and priests who originated from Ireland. We are indebted to them all.

For those of Irish heritage, St Patrick’s Day holds a special significance—a time to rejoice in our roots and the traditions that bind us together as a community. So, today, may the blessings of St Patrick be upon us all, guiding us with faith, hope and love as we pray this special blessing:

"May the road rise to meet you,

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face,

The rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of His hand."

Harmony Day Invitation – March 21

Join us on March 21 as we come together to celebrate Harmony Day under the theme of "Where everyone belongs." This special day, nestled within the week of the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, holds deep significance for our community. It's a testament to our collective commitment to fostering inclusivity and respect for all individuals, guided by the fundamental belief that every person is inherently valuable and made in the image of God.

This year our Vocational Major students under the guidance of Mrs Dias and her teachers have been diligently preparing an array of activities to commemorate this occasion. From the world of sports to tantalizing cultural food stalls and a vibrant cultural fashion parade, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, be prepared to be inspired by some student  performances showcasing the rich cultural heritage of our community.

Our whole school assembly will take place this Thursday with an assembly at 10 am, where parents are warmly invited to join in the celebration. This assembly will highlight the beauty and diversity of our Indonesian culture, serving as a reminder of the richness that stems from embracing our differences. We encourage students, staff and guests alike to participate in the day's events dressed in their cultural attire, symbolising our unity amidst diversity.

St John’s School Tours - Enrolment Applications for 2025 and 2026

Our next open event will take place on Saturday 23 March at 10 am. This is an opportunity for parents and new families to hear from senior staff and take a tour of our educational facilities. You can book a place by contacting our College reception on (03) 8793 2000 or via the try booking's link on our school website. All enquiries are to be directed to our school Registrar, Ms Helen Phillips.

Interim Reports and Parent Teacher Interviews

We look forward to meeting with our parents for our Term 1 interviews. Interim reports will be available on our learning management system SEQTA in the week prior to Parent Teacher Interviews.  The interviews will have a focus on teacher feedback on student progress to date and the important next steps for their learning in Term 2. The interviews will be face to face on the Wednesday evening in the school's stadium and online on the Thursday. Please note students will finish classes at 2.30 pm on the Wednesday and Thursday will be a student free day.

Year 12 Retreat – Safety Beach

The Year 12 retreat offers our students a valuable opportunity to momentarily step away from the demands of VCE study and immerse themselves in reflection and introspection. Over three days, they delve into the pivotal moments that have shaped their journey thus far, contemplating their hopes and aspirations for the future. As the leaders of our school community, we entrust our Year 12 students with the responsibility of embodying the values of dignity and respect in their interactions with others, and we were delighted to witness their wholehearted engagement in the retreat activities.

Conducted by the dedicated Lasallian Retreat Team at the scenic Don Bosco Camp in Safety Beach, this retreat was a testament to the collaborative effort of many individuals. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Retreat Team, led by our Director of Faith & Mission, Mr. John Rhynehart, as well as all the supportive staff who sacrificed time with their loved ones to create a transformative experience for our graduating students.

During this pivotal time in their final year of school, the retreat not only provides a space for reflection but also encourages our students to discern their future pathways and explore the ways in which faith and God are actively working in their lives. It is our hope that this experience will leave a lasting impact, guiding our students as they embark on their next chapter beyond the school gates.