Deputy Principals' Report
Dear Families,
This week we begin the beautiful season of Advent—a time of preparation, reflection, and joyful anticipation as we wait to celebrate the birth of Jesus at Christmas. The first candle of the Advent wreath represents Hope, reminding us that Jesus is the light who breaks through darkness and brings promise and possibility to our world.
May this first week of Advent fill our hearts with hope as we prepare for the coming of Christ.
Warm regards,Deputy Principals: Joelle Diakrousis and Anthony Speranza
Stationery Lists 2026
Attached are the Stationery Lists for Prep-6 for 2026. The items listed can be purchased from your preferred retailer (e.g., Officeworks, Big W, etc.).
If you already own any of these items in good condition and suitable for use throughout the school year, there is no need to purchase them again. We kindly ask that all items are brought to school on the first day of Term 1 (28/1) and clearly labelled with your child’s name.
Resilience Groups Year 3 & 4 (Formerly Bounceback)
Mrs Diakrousis has resumed her small group Resilience sessions. At this stage, the groups will be offered to Year 3 and 4 students only.
These sessions will explore a range of strategies designed to support the development of resilience through small group activities and discussion. Our second focus will be on Resilience —Building Inner Strength.
During the sessions, students will:
- Recognise thoughts and feelings during challenges.
- Learn calming and coping strategies to bounce back.
- Develop positive self-talk skills to stay strong and motivated
The program will run as an eight-week block, with sessions held once a fortnight in the afternoon.
We look forward to supporting our students as they continue to grow in confidence and emotional wellbeing.
Seasons for Growth – Grief and Loss Support Program
We would like to let families know that Mrs Diakrousis will resume the Seasons for Growth program this term. Seasons for Growth is a small-group program designed to support children who have experienced significant change, loss, or grief—such as the death of a loved one, family separation, or other major life changes.
The program helps students explore their feelings in a safe and supportive environment through age-appropriate discussions, stories, creative activities, and personal reflection. It aims to build emotional resilience and equip students with strategies to cope with change.
The program will be available for students from Prep to Year 6, and groups will be organised by level: Junior (Prep–Year 2), Middle (Years 3–4), and Senior (Years 5–6).
If you feel your child would benefit from being part of this program, please contact Mrs Diakrousis at jdiakrousis@spmentone.catholic.edu.au.
Random Acts of Kindness Awards
Week 9
Abbey W., Thomas G., and Billy B. (PCS) For working hard at keeping St Patrick's clean and tidy for all of us to enjoy.
Charlie E. (PNS) For helping another student who was sad and needed support after school.
Ava B. (5ID) and Antonia P. (5MH) For assisting the Prep girls when they were having trouble with the rules of their game.