Principal's Message

Dear parents and community members

Last week I met with the Armidale Catholic Schools Leadership team and agreed to continue my tenure here at St Philomena’s until the end of the year. We made this decision to provide greater stability and to work through the building program. A continuance of leadership for a whole year will also provide some certainty for the school and community. The office intends to advertise for a Principal from 2025 in week 7 of term 2. The plan is for that person to be on site for the majority of term 4 so that a proper hand over can occur. On a personal note I didnt find the decision difficult. I am better understanding the position of the school, staff and community and what needs to be put into place in order for a smooth transition to occur.

We have held the AGM for the P&F and congratulate the office bearers for 2024. Mr Scott Antees will continue as President and Mr Chris Hartin will be VP. Alyse Gregg will be Secretary and Melita Baily Treasurer. We had a number of people present at the meeting and I would like to echo Scott’s words that all parents are really members of the P&F of St Philomena’s. The committee are in the process of planning the first community engagement for the year and the next meeting will be Monday 18th at 6.00pm in the staff room. We also held our first meeting of the SAC this week and it is evident the community desire to engage with the school and to work for the school to reach desired outcomes.

Congratulations to the students who have gained Diocesan selection in the Primary winter trials. Also to the weekly award winners in both secondary and primary. It is good to see that recognition awards are presented throughout the school for actions that contribute to an inclusive school community. Students are continuing to raise money for Caritas through the Lentern program. Last Friday we had the crazy hair and sock day and this week we have the water challenge. 

Thank you to all the parents who were able to come along to our open day. Many staff commented that this was our biggest turn out for some time which was encouraging. After the Covid years there was a significant drop in parental engagement with schools across Australia. It is pleasing to see that we are steadily reversing this trend.

Naplan began this week. As always the media has generated a number of stories around Naplan and its impacts. We understand that this assessment can be a cause of anxiety for some and we have taken steps to provide support for all children and young people who will sit the assessment. We need to keep in mind that the assessment provides a snapshot of achievement at a point in time. I have been impressed by the way the school interrogates the data around children and young people in order to enhance learning and well being outcomes.

Kind Regards

Kind Regards

Simon Fleming

Principal