Dear Families,

2027 Prep Enrolments – Now Open

Applications for our 2027 Prep class are now open. As places are limited, we encourage families to submit an enrolment application as soon as possible. Enrolment forms are available on our website by clicking ‘Enrol Now’.

Camp

Camp gives students the chance to develop new skills, embrace challenges, and strengthen relationships with their peers and teachers, all within a safe and supportive environment.

Last week, our Year 5 students enjoyed an exciting four-day camp on the Mornington Peninsula at Merricks Lodge. They had the opportunity to try surfing and snorkeling—a fantastic chance to step outside their comfort zones and experience activities they may not have encountered before. We were proud of every student for approaching camp with enthusiasm, courage, and a willingness to learn.

This week, our Year 4 students spent three days and two nights at Angahook Camp in Aireys Inlet. Highlights included canoeing down the river, bike riding, and bravely taking on the giant swing. It was wonderful to see students support one another, work as a team, and explore new activities. Angahook Camp provided an excellent opportunity for our Year 4 students to learn, grow, have fun, and create lasting memories together.

A big thank you to Dan Booth, Olivia Leonardi, Liam Buckley, Paul Mapley, Charlotte Drake, Brian Kelly, Shane Gethings, Niamh McCague, Alana McGuirk, and Leagh O'Byrne for their dedication and care in making the Year 4 and 5 camps such a memorable and rewarding experience.

Preps Now Full-Time

We are thrilled that our Prep students have now joined us full-time. It’s wonderful to see them becoming more confident in their routines and actively engaging with the school community. We look forward to seeing them continue to thrive throughout the year.

School Advisory Council

Our School Advisory Council (SAC) met last week, focusing on several key initiatives. Discussions included improving the allocation system for before- and after-school basketball training sessions and liaising with local basketball competitions to potentially host matches in our stadium later this year.

Additionally, the SAC is working on securing grants to upgrade our main building to provide the best possible learning spaces for students. We are starting with the redevelopment of the two end stairwells.

Sacrament of Reconciliation – Year 3

Earlier this week, we celebrated our Year 3 students who received the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time. This was a special milestone in their faith journey. We are grateful to Fr. Paul, Fr. John, Fr. Eldridge, Sue from St. Peter and Paul Parish, Caleb and Helen (Year 3 teachers), Marcus (our new Religious Education Leader), and the Year 3 families for their support in preparing the students.

Year 3 Visit to CERES

Last week, Year 3 students visited CERES to engage in a cultural program focused on local Aboriginal culture. They had the opportunity to listen to stories, learn about traditions, and understand the importance of respecting and learning from Aboriginal culture.

This term, the entire school has focused on Aboriginal culture, exploring stories, traditions, art, and more. This focus was showcased during our recent assembly, where Year 6 students shared insights on traditional local seasons and how this knowledge can help manage events like bushfires.

Running Club

It’s always a joy to see students from different year levels gathering early in the morning to challenge themselves and have fun at Running Club. We are incredibly grateful to Jason, Dom, and the parent volunteers who make this program possible.

If you haven’t had a chance to join yet, we encourage you to check it out. It’s a fantastic way to start the day with physical activity, and parents have the opportunity to socialise while cheering on the students.

Thank You to Our 2026 Parent Reps

We would like to thank the incredible parents who have volunteered as Parent Reps this year. These parent leaders play a vital role in supporting and organising school events, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Parent Reps will gather for morning tea soon to discuss their roles for the year. If you have questions about upcoming events or would like to volunteer, your Parent Rep is the best person to contact.

AFL Season Opener Pie Night at Galilee Tonight

Tonight, we celebrate the start of the 2026 AFL season with a new event. Year 2 teachers and families have organised an evening of pies, a jumping castle, a handball competition, and a screening of the 2025 AFL Grand Final in the stadium.

Gather your family, put on your footy colours, and bring something to sit on. It’s a wonderful way to kick off the long weekend. Let’s hope Geelong beats the Lions this time around.

Student-Free Day & Professional Development Day Tomorrow

A reminder that Friday, 6th March, is a student-free day. Staff will attend First Aid training and professional development focused on Catholic Identity.

Our out-of-hours care program will run all day. If you intend to use this service, please visit the TheirCare website to book.

NAPLAN Testing – Year 3 and Year 5

Next week, Year 3 and Year 5 students will sit the NAPLAN assessments, which measure writing, reading, language conventions, and numeracy skills. Results help plan for improved student outcomes, and Galilee has consistently performed well.

This year, we are focusing on improving reading instruction, using research-based strategies in partnership with the Australian Catholic University’s Australian Centre for the Advancement of Literacy and the Melbourne Archdiocese of Catholic Schools. We are excited to begin this next phase of learning next term.

Student Medical Information

All families are required to update student medical information on the Nforma Parent Portal. Accurate information ensures staff can respond appropriately to student needs. Thank you for keeping these records up to date.

Child Safety Standard 2

Galilee continues to strengthen its commitment to Child Safe Standard 2, which focuses on embedding child safety and wellbeing into leadership, governance, and culture. This includes strong policies, staff training, and fostering a culture where students feel valued and protected. By prioritising child safety, we aim to build a community where every child feels safe and supported.

St. Patrick’s Day – Tuesday, 17th March

Students are invited to wear a touch of green and participate in activities exploring St. Patrick, Irish culture, and the values St. Patrick exemplified. St. Patrick is the patron saint of Melbourne, and his faith, courage, and dedication inspire us to live out our mission as disciples of Jesus.

Harmony Day – Friday, 20th March

Harmony Day celebrates the rich cultural diversity in our community. Students are encouraged to wear clothing representing their cultural heritage or the colour orange. The day will begin with a vibrant parade in the stadium at 8:55am, showcasing the diverse cultures in our school. Families are warmly invited to join the celebration.

Parent/Carer Meet and Mingle

Thank you to everyone who joined us at the Port Melbourne Bowling Club for our first Meet and Mingle. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect in a relaxed setting. Special thanks to the Bowling Club for hosting us.

Galilee Swimming Team

Congratulations to our Swimming Team for their fantastic efforts at the Dendy Swimming Competition. Their sportsmanship and determination made us proud. Thank you to Charlotte Drake, Caleb Knappett, and our supportive parents for making the day a success.

Mother’s Day Lunch

MOTHER'S DAY LUNCH - SAVE THE DATE

Ladies… your inner icon is calling

Join us for the Galilee Mother’s Day Ladies Lunch

📅 12pm Friday 8 May

📍 Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron

💃 Afterparty to follow

💋 Inspiration: 90s glam

More details to come… but for now, lock it in and start planning your look.

Upcoming Term 1 Community Events

Galilee Easter Raffle Fundraiser: Prizes drawn in the final week of Term 1
Galilee Hot Cross Buns Fundraiser: Delivery in the final week of Term 1

Note: The Colour Run will not run this year. Instead, we are planning a special event with Luna Park for Galilee students and their families later in the year—more details soon.

Looking Ahead – Weeks 7 and 8

Week 7

Monday: Public Holiday
Wednesday: NAPLAN Year 3 & 5 Writing
Thursday: NAPLAN Year 3 & 5 Reading & Language Conventions
Friday: NAPLAN Year 3 & 5 Numeracy, Assembly 8:55am – Year 1 presenting

Week 8

Tuesday: St. Patrick’s Day – students may wear a touch of green
Thursday: Year 5/6 Dendy Cricket Competition
Friday: Harmony Day - students may wear clothing that represents their cultural heritage or the colour orange

Wishing You a Wonderful Long Weekend

We hope you enjoy the long weekend ahead. Please note that Monday, 9th March, is a public holiday. We look forward to seeing everyone back on Tuesday for another exciting week of learning and fun at Galilee.

We wish you every blessing in the coming weeks.

—Amy Burns (Principal), Holly Evans and Richard Harding (Deputy Principals)

Community News

Chess with Felix