Principals' Message
St Joseph's Primary School, West Tamworth
Dear Parents and Carers,
As we begin Week 4, it is wonderful to reflect on the growth and achievements that continue to shape St Joseph’s. Our school community is thriving as we welcome new families and students, celebrate the progress of our learners and support our Year 6 students as they prepare for the exciting next chapter of their educational journey. Through our ongoing partnership with the high schools, in particular, McCarthy Catholic College, we are working together to ensure a thoughtful and supportive transition to secondary education in 2027, helping our students feel confident, connected and ready for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
While the year is moving quickly, there is still so much to look forward to and achieve together. As we approach the weeks ahead, we encourage every student to approach each day with enthusiasm, a positive ‘can do’ attitude and a commitment to giving their very best. Our expectations remain high, not only in learning and achievement but also in the way we show kindness, respect, manners and care towards each another.
We’re in for a vibrant and exciting few weeks, and we look forward to seeing you all at our upcoming events and celebrations. Let’s embrace this busy time with joy and exuberance and make the most of the wonderful opportunities it brings for our students and school community.
World Teachers' Day
World Teachers’ Day was celebrated last Friday, 30th October, giving us a wonderful opportunity to honour the immense effort and dedication that our staff bring to St Joseph’s every day. Our team of professional educators consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every student feels supported, valued, and inspired in their learning journey. To express our gratitude for all that they do, each teacher was presented with a small gift on behalf of the school community.
Kindergarten Transition Assembly
Congratulations to our 2027 Kindergarten class who completed a very successful transition program last Tuesday. Thank you to all the families and friends who were able to join us for the Graduation Assembly, where the children performed a song for our school community. The assembly concluded with the students receiving a special certificate to mark their 'graduation' from the program as well as a St Joey's gift bag containing an array of helpful items to assist them in preparation for next year.
Starting 'big' school is such a special time for children and their parents. We find that our transition program is highly successful as it provides an excellent opportunity for the children to become familiar with the school setting, the teachers and their peers. A huge thank you to Mrs McManus and Mrs Vile for facilitating the program for our newest students and their families.
We look forward to welcoming the children to St Joseph's in 2027 as they commence their primary education.
Real Talk Parent & Caregiver Session
Real Talk is a valuable agency providing values-based education on human dignity, personal identity, and relationships to students, parents and caregivers. A Real Talk Parent & Caregiver Session is scheduled to take place in Tamworth on Wednesday 11th November - 6:30-8pm at St Nicholas Primary School. These sessions are provided free of charge to all participants as part of the Armidale Catholic Schools' ongoing work with the Real Talk program. Please see the General Information page in this newsletter for further information.
Sisters of Saint Joseph Thanksgiving Mass
Saturday, 14th November at 11am
After many years of wonderful service, the Sisters of Saint Joseph are leaving the Armidale Diocese, leaving behind a legacy of immense value and deep impact. School communities across the diocese are invited to honour their extraordinary contribution at a Mass of Thanksgiving at St Patrick's, West Tamworth, on November 14th, followed by a light lunch. Students attending are requested to wear their full school uniform. See the St Patrick's Parish Bulletin notice below:
SISTERS OF SAINT JOSEPH THANKSGIVING MASS: On Saturday 14 November 2026 a Mass of Thanksgiving will be offered for the Sisters of Saint Joseph, who at the end of this year will no longer have a presence in formal ministry in the Diocese. Mary MacKillop responded to the request of Bishop Torregiani and the first Sisters arrived in 1880. Since then 590 Sisters have ministered firstly in schools then, motor mission, parish and spiritually. Many students, parishioners and families and clergy have been touched by their commitment to God’s Mission. Mass will be celebrated in St Patrick’s Church West Tamworth at 11am followed by a light lunch. For catering purposes please RSVP to Kim McKenzie via email: Kim.McKenzie@sosj.org.au or phone: 02 8741 2311 by Tuesday 3 November 2026.
Maree Holland & Greg O'Toole
Co-Principals
St Joseph's School - a Faith Filled Community Where Learning Matters