Principal's Report

Dear Families,

As we come to the close of the 2024 school year, I would like to acknowledge the achievements, the challenges and the joyous celebrations that we have all experienced across the year. This time of year is always a time for reflection—looking back on all that we have accomplished together and thinking forward to the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. I would also like us to think about and be grateful for the people that we will be saying goodbye to as they move on to new chapters of their lives.

Firstly, to all of our wonderful students—each of you has grown in ways both big and small over the course of this year. From the smallest milestones to the greatest achievements, you have shown perseverance, creativity, and kindness. Whether it was mastering a new skill, helping a friend, or sharing a moment of laughter, you have made this school a truly special place. Watching you grow and learn is what makes my job so incredibly rewarding, and I am so proud of each and every one of you.

To our dedicated teachers and staff—you are the heart and soul of this school. You pour your passion and energy into nurturing our students, inspiring them to reach for the stars, and supporting them in their journeys. Your commitment to creating a safe, welcoming, and challenging environment has made a profound difference in the lives of our students. Thank you for your hard work, your patience, and your unwavering belief in every child’s potential. I’m deeply grateful to have had the privilege of working alongside such a talented, caring team.

To the parents and families of St Joseph’s community—I cannot thank you enough for the support and trust you place in us each day. You are our partners in education, and together we have created an environment where children thrive. Whether you volunteered, attended meetings, helped with homework, or simply offered words of encouragement, your involvement has enriched our school in countless ways. Your commitment to your child’s education and well-being has made this year a success, and for that, we are so grateful.

Finally, to the staff, students and families who will be leaving us—whether you're transitioning to a new school or moving on to new adventures, we will miss you. You have been a part of our St Joseph’s community, and you will always be a part of our hearts. We are so proud of all you have achieved and all the ways in which you have contributed to the spirit of our school. We wish you nothing but success in the next chapter of your journey, and we hope you will carry with you the memories of the friendships and experiences you've had here.

As we say goodbye to this school year, we look ahead to the future with hope and optimism. 

Thank you to every member of our school family. It has been an honor to lead and learn alongside all of you. I wish you a joyful and restful holiday season and look forward to what the new year will bring.

I would also like to thank all the amazing volunteers who have put their hands up to be a part of both the School Advisory Council and also the Parents and Friends for 2025. Without their support and time many opportunities that our children are involved in would not happen. I would also like to make special mention of Marsha Stanyer who is stepping down as our P&F president after many years in this role. We also farewell Jess Rogers from the P&F and Silvana Soti from the SAC. On behalf of the St Joseph’s community I would like to say thanks and wish them all the best with their new secondary school journey. 

As we prepare for 2025 I would like to inform families of our new daily schedule for next year. Our school gates will open at 8:30 am each day however students and families will be invited to stay on the green until 8:45 am when the village doors will open ready for the commencement of prayer at 8:50am. Students can be dropped off at 8:30 am each day as staff will supervise the green prior to the village doors opening. Parents are invited to attend our morning prayer as you have been doing so this year. 

We have also introduced five, one hour learning sessions for 2025. Currently the students have five 45 mins learning sessions. Due to this increase in learning time our school day will now conclude at 3:15 pm. Please see below the new 2025 daly schedule

Please find attached the new fee structure for 2025 as previously communicated to families.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the St Joseph’s community for their warm welcome in my first year as principal and wish all families a Christmas filled with love, laughter and share new memories and the safest time as we all travel into the new year.

Julie McDougall

(Principal)