Principal's News   

Dear Parents and Carers,

As Term 3 comes to a close, we take a moment to celebrate the many learning successes and achievements of our students across the term. From academic growth, to sporting and performing arts accomplishments and leadership opportunities, our students have demonstrated determination, resilience, and a commitment to giving their best. 

Some of the significant highlights from across the term have been - our school production 'Beauty and the Beast Jnr', sporting events such as our swimming program, District Athletics, Basketball Lightning Premiership,  Footy Day, District Athletics, learning events such as our annual Book Week celebration day, Science Week, and senior school captain initiatives such as the Pyjama Day and Fire Carriers Commissioning. Students have participated in faith formation experiences such as the Prep Pilgrimage, the Sacrament of First Eucharist and preparation for Confirmation. Other school events have included - Are You Ok? Day, the commencement of our Prep Prep Program, as well as our 2026 Prep Teddy Bears Picnic. We welcomed new families to our community and sadly farewelled others. We continue to keep all families in our prayers, and we continue to reach out and care for others in the true St Joseph's spirit.

Equally important has been the way our students have shown respect for our school values - kindliness and strength - supporting one another, making positive choices, and contributing to a caring and inclusive school community. 

We thank everyone in our community who has contributed in big and small ways. We are so grateful to our families and staff for their ongoing encouragement and support, which help make these successes possible for the children. We look forward to a well-deserved break and an exciting Term 4 ahead!

End of Term Prayer

Loving Father, 

As we conclude this term, we are grateful for the blessings and challenges of the past months. 

Thank You for the lessons learned, the friendships made, and the growth we've experienced. 

We ask for Your grace to rest and recharge during this holiday break. 

Keep us safe, refresh our minds and bodies, and allow us to enjoy time with our families and friends. 

Bring us back to school renewed and ready for the next term. 

In Your name, we pray.

Amen. 

Sacrament of Confirmation  Commitment Mass

At the St Joseph’s Parish last Sunday, members of our school community celebrated and supported students as they participated in the Confirmation Commitment Mass. It was wonderful to see so many families come together in prayer and community, sharing in this special time of reflection and celebration. We continue to keep in our prayers the children who will be making their Sacrament of Confirmation on October 30, asking God to guide and bless them as they take this important step in their faith. May we all continue to nurture the faith of our students and support them as they continue on their faith journey. 

Class Liturgies and Open Book

This week, each class hosted an end of term Liturgy and Open Book event, where families joined in prayer and celebrated student learning. It was a joy to see students proudly share their achievements and families warmly engaged in their growth.

Footy Colours Day

Today, on the last day of term, we enjoyed our annual Footy Colours Day! The school was alive with energy and team spirit as students, parents and staff, proudly wore the colours of their favourite football clubs. 

A big thank you to our wonderful P&F for providing the sausages, and our amazing mums - Kate, Jess, Jasmine, Sami, Celeste, Claire and Julia-  for cooking the delicious sausages, and preparing the lunch boxes, which were very much enjoyed by all.

Everyone had a great time taking part in the parade, activities and games that brought the school community together in a lively and festive atmosphere. This was a fantastic way to end the term, and it was wonderful to see so many students and staff joining in the excitement and celebrating their love of footy! Such great St Joseph's spirit!

We also thank the wonderful Year 9 student leaders from De La Salle who kindly came along to help with out with our Footy Day activities today. It was so great to have them here at St Joseph's leading the sports rotations and building relationships with our students.

With the footy finals just around the corner, we are looking forward to seeing more thrilling matches and cheering on our favourite teams. We hope everyone continues to enjoy the season and keeps the footy spirit alive as the finals approach!

Swimming Program

This week, we successfully wrapped up our nine-day Intensive Swimming Program for all students from Prep to Year 6. Throughout the program, it was wonderful to see so many of our children continue to build their swimming skills, grow in confidence, and develop a stronger understanding of water safety. The joy on their faces as they participated in the sessions highlighted not only their learning but also their enjoyment of being in the water. We are very proud of the effort and enthusiasm shown by all students and look forward to celebrating their progress and achievements at our Swimming Carnival next term.

De La Salle Art Design and Technology Exhibition

We were thrilled to be invited to attend De La Salle's Art, Design and Technology Exhibition, which was a celebration of artistic and technological excellence.

This year’s exhibition highlighted the creativity and innovation of our students from Years 6 to 12. The showcase included an exciting mix of work across various disciplines - Art, Photography, Architecture, Visual Communication Design, and STEM. It was a wonderful opportunity for our senior students to attend this celebration of the imagination, skill and effort our students have poured into their projects throughout the year.

We thank Sandy and Stephen (Dad of Ada in Prep) from De La Salle, for taking the time to host us and show us around.

The students were teated to a very nice surprise as well! Thank you to our school captain's Bridget and Callum who delivered a very impromptu thank you speech which they did incredibly well!

Student Successes

At the Prahran Junior Football Club 'Under 8’s' we had a wonderful representation of our St Joseph’s  students. From Grade 2, we had Zach H, Oliver K, Finn P, Jack L, Gus D and Harry M and Raphael B from Grade 1. At the end of the presentation, Finn was acknowledged for his 28 goals throughout the season and Harry was awarded the Best and Fairest trophy. Demonstrating school values, the coach and team manager referenced the wonderful team work and spirit the boys demonstrate. Super proud of our St Joseph's boys! 

Another success for Oscar R in Year 6 as his team made the football grand final this year, and although they didn’t win, the special bond formed with new friends was meaningful and far more rewarding than winning. His team and coaches understood that Oscar has different abilities and positioned him so he could contribute equally. He gave it his all every week and became of one the top goal scorers. Oscar’s coach showed the definition of compassion and the importance of team sport and what it can teach all of us, young and old. It’s far less about winning, less about individualism and far more about how we can work together and have wonderful experiences when we strive for the same outcome as a united group. Congratulations Oscar!

This week there were some grading achievements for students who participate in the All Stars Martial Arts before school. We had some very happy children who were proudly presented with their new belts. Darci S also participated in a karate tournament and received a 2nd place medal. We are proud of you Darci! Congratulations also to  Harvey C who competed on the day as well compete on the day as well. It is wonderful to see our students getting involved and enjoying these events!

Principal Pilgrimage- A Journey of Hope

Every twenty-five years, the Church proclaims a Holy Year - The Jubilee Year of Hope. In this year of Pilgrimage, principals from schools around Melbourne have been offered the opportunity to join the faithful from around the world. At the beginning of next term, I will be joining fellow principals, 16 of us in total from the archdiocese in Melbourne, on a pilgrimage to Rome, Loreto and Assisi. This pilgrimage centres on faith leadership.

What makes this journey even more meaningful is the opportunity to share this with the lead pilgrim, Rev Father Michael Gallacher, Parish Priest of St Joseph’s Primary School and a MACS Board Member. This pilgrimage is a time to deepen my faith, reflect, grow closer to God, and share this with fellow principals. Guided by Father Gallacher and inspired by the spirit of the Jubilee, I embark on this journey with anticipation and gratitude, trusting it will bring peace, renewal, and spiritual growth.

Some of the key sites and places of significance to the Catholic Church that we will be visiting in Rome, Assisi and Loreto include: St Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, the Holy Stairs, the Papal Audience in St Peter's Square, the Basilica of St Mary Major – where Pope Francis is buried, the Basilica of St Francis in Assisi, and the tomb of Saint Carlo Acutis – who was canonized by Pope Leo XIV  on Sunday, September 7, 2025. Carlo Acutis is known as the church's first millennial saint. 

I look forward to sharing this pilgrimage journey with you when I return next term. I will keep our school community in my prayers as I visit some of these very sacred places.

Principal Presentation

Last Friday, I had the privilege of presenting to a group of aspiring principals at the Catholic Leadership Centre. I was invited to speak with a group of Deputy Principals about my journey in preparing for principalship and to reflect on my first 100 days in the role. It was a wonderful opportunity to share the many rewards that come with leading a school community. As I mentioned to the group, being entrusted with such a role is truly a blessing – not only to lead a school in the pursuit of excellence, but also to make a meaningful difference in student learning, while encouraging and supporting each child to flourish. One of the great joys of this role has also been working alongside our dedicated staff, whose passion and commitment make such a difference each day. Looking back over this year, the moments I have cherished most have been the joyful ones found within the day-to-day busyness of school life, especially the precious time spent with the children.

School Advisory Council 

School Advisory Council –  Expressions of Interest

The School Advisory Council (SAC) plays an important role in supporting the Principal and strengthening our school community. Acting as a consultative voice, the SAC provides advice on school improvement, finance, communication, community engagement, and the well-being and learning of our students.

For the 2026–2027 period, we are seeking new members to join the SAC as some of our current SAC members' tenures will come to an end. This is a voluntary three-year commitment, with the group meeting around 6–8 times per year. Serving on the SAC is a wonderful way to contribute skills, share your perspective, and help shape the future of St Joseph’s.

How to Nominate

If you would like to put yourself forward, please email Annabelle Marinelli (annabelle.marinelli@sjmalvern.catholic.edu.au) with your nomination before the end of Week 2 in Term 4 (Friday 17th October). Include a short outline of your background and how you feel you can contribute. All expressions of interest will be considered by the principal, the SAC Chair - David Stegehuis and Fr Gallacher.

We warmly encourage parents and carers to consider this wonderful opportunity to be actively involved, contribute to St Joseph’s, share your perspective, and make a difference for our students and community. If you have any questions, please contact David Stegehuis (SAC Chair) or Annabelle Marinelli.

For more information about the SAC and the process of applying, please refer to the Terms of Reference:

Successful candidates will be confirmed at the final SAC meeting this year.

SAC Meetings for the remainder of 2025:

• 2026 SAC Member Expressions of Interest Close on Oct 17
• Next SAC Meeting Oct 21
• SAG AGM and Dinner Nov 25 

Parents and Friends

Bunnings Hawthorn P&F BBQ Sausage Fundraiser- Tomorrow Saturday 20th September- Please come along and support our school!

Our amazing P&F, led by Kate Tehan, are once again supporting our school community, by running a BBQ fundraiser at Bunnings Hawthorn! This fantastic initiative not only helps raise much-needed funds for our school, but also provides a wonderful opportunity to promote our school within the local community. It’s a great way to showcase the spirit, dedication, and warmth of our school family. 

A huge thank you to all the parents who have generously signed up to help tomorrow - your time and support are truly appreciated. Whether you're stopping by for a sausage or volunteering to cook some sausages, every bit helps! It is also a great opportunity to build and strengthen connections with our families in our school. We’re so grateful to everyone involved in making this event a success!

The funds raised from this event will go towards supporting the refurb in the senior space (carpet being installed in the holidays and new furniture arriving early/mid term 4!)

Thank you to Kate Tehan, our P&F and our wider community, for your continued support of our school and our students! I will see you there tomorrow morning nice and early!

P&F Meetings for the Remainder of 2025

• P&F Meeting Oct 22
• P&F AGM Nov 18

Today's School Assembly

We thank Year 6 leaders for leading us during our assembly today, and to our Wellbeing Leader, Ms Carman and our senior students for promoting our St Joseph's Footy Day. We also congratulate our STAR Award recipients and wish our birthday children a very special Tanti Auguri...

Principal Awards for Term 3

It is always a pleasure to recognise students who display our school values of Strength and Kindliness. Today at our final assembly for Term 3, I had the pleasure of announcing the Principal Awards for students who have displayed our school values, as well as awards for Excellence for Term 3. Congratulations to the following students who received awards for this semester!

 Principal Award for Excellence

Gus P, Brooklyn L, Max V, Calista G, Hadriell M, Liam M, Lilly W, Leo C, Greyson K, Xavier M, Matilda C,  Holly H,  Bennett MG-L, Sidney K, Bart H, Xavier , Pip N, Max L, Bridget B!

Principal Award for Kindness

Bart H, Bridget B, Benji M, Arabella A, Charlie C, Emilio K, Harry B, Anne J. Franco B!

Farewell to Karen

Today at assembly, our school community farewelled our very loved Ms Karen, who has been an integral part of our school community for many years. We thank Ms Stacey, Oscar and Mary, who presented Ms Karen with some flowers on behalf of our school community and some very special cards that were made with love and appreciation by our students. We will miss you, Ms Karen.

Term 4 Uniform

As we head into the warmer months, beginning in Term 4, we will have a two week grace period to allow the students to transition into their summer uniform. School hats and sunscreen must be worn from day one and "No Hat, No Play" will apply. We encourage sunscreen to be applied before school, and students are responsible for reapplication throughout the day. At St Joseph's we encourage our students to wear their uniform with pride and we encourage all parents and carers to support us with this. There are strictly no variations to the school uniform e.g. non-school hat, alternative sock colours, sneakers etc. We also ask that no nail polish or fancy jewellery is worn at school. All smart watches and phones need to be dropped in at the office at the beginning of the day and collected again at the end of the day. We thank you for your support with this.

Lock In Drill

This week, we held our scheduled emergency drill for the term, which focused on a Non-Discreet Lock-In. These regular drills are an important part of our commitment to student safety, helping students practise how to respond calmly and confidently in the event of an emergency. They also give staff valuable time to rehearse and review our procedures, ensuring we are well prepared to keep everyone safe if a real situation were ever to occur.

A 'lock-in' is used for situations such as extreme weather or hazards (for example, a bee swarm). During a lock-in, teaching continues as normal, but students remain indoors and do not leave their classrooms. This practice helped ensure that everyone knows what to do to stay safe should such a situation ever arise. We thank Mr Dean Butler and Ms Stone for facilitating this so well!

Meet our Wonderful St Joseph's Staff

This week I'd like to introduce our wonderful learning support staff....

Learning Support -Hudson 

I mainly support in Year 4, but I also work across the school with students in Years 1, 2, 5, and 6. I have been at St Joseph’s for nearly two years now, not including the six months I spent here on placement, and I am also a former student, attending from 2009 to 2015. In Year 6, I was the Red House Sports Captain. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my dog, Billy. My favourite food is pizza, my favourite colour is lime green, and I enjoy watching cop shows, especially NCIS. In my free time, I like to do whatever my friends enjoy, but I particularly love playing baseball as it is a challenging sport with a strong and welcoming community. Baseball and NFL are my favourite sports, and my teams are the LA Dodgers and the Seattle Seahawks. When I am not at work, I am usually playing baseball on weekends or weekdays, or coaching.

Learning Support - Briely

I work mainly in Grade 4 and sometimes in Grade 2, and I’ve been part of the St Joseph’s community for about eight years - it’s flown by! I’m a mum to two boys and our dog, a GSP named Barry, who is my shadow. I love going to the movies, catching a live show, spending time with friends, reading and eating out - Mexican is my current favourite! 

My favourite colours are yellow and green. Most weekends you’ll find me at the beach in summer or at sports, with soccer and fishing being family favourites. I also enjoy time outdoors, relaxing with family, and squeezing in a good book or movie whenever I can.

cheers

Learning Support- Sumera

My name is Sumera and I have just started working as an LSO at St Joseph’s! In my free time, I love to play netball and explore Melbourne. I love to travel, I backpacked around Asia before moving to Australia from London. At home, I have a lovely dog called Riley, who I miss so much!

What's On Next Term...

Please take a look at our Term 4 Calendar of Events on our Important Dates page in this week's newsletter.

School Closure Day

Whilst it might seem like a long time away, I would just like to inform you that our next school closure day takes place on Friday, 31st October. This date has been marked on our family calendar, as well as in our school newsletter's calendar of events. This day is a professional learning day for our staff, where we will take a deep dive into MACS' Vision for Instruction and Vision for Engagement, as well as analysing student and school data, so that we have a strong focus on learning, as we begin to plan for 2026. The date of this school closure is timely, as families are afforded an extra long weekend with the Melbourne Cup Public Holiday the following week.

The school will be closed on:

And finally....

From all of the staff at St Joseph's I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our entire community for what has been an incredibly successful term. Most importantly we commend the efforts of our students and appreciate the support from our parents and carers. I would also like to acknowledge the dedication of our wonderful staff at St Joseph's who work tirelessly for the children, ensuring they continue to learn and that they feel cared for while they are at school. I am so grateful for them all and wish them a well deserved break. Thank you for your kindness in acknowledging them as they care for your child every day.

A reminder that I will be away from school in Weeks 1 and 2 next term as I will be on the principal pilgrimage in Rome with Fr. Gallacher, and other principals from the Archdiocese of Melbourne. 

In my absence, the school will be left in the very capable hands of our Deputy Principal, Dean Butler. I will be checking my email from time to time, however, I may not have access to the internet at all times. Please reach out to Dean if you have any questions or concerns. He can be reached on his email dean.butler@sjmalvern.catholic.edu.au  or by contacting the office on 95976300.

For our families who are travelling over the holidays, I wish you safe and enjoyable travels.

I wish you all a wonderful and restful break, and I look forward to seeing you when I return on Friday in Week 2.

With warmest regards,

Annabelle Marinelli

Principal 

annabelle.marinelli@sjmalvern.catholic.edu.au