Principal's Report
Saint Francis Xavier - Principal's Report
Term 2 - Week 7
Dear Parents and Friends of St Francis Xavier,
Pentecost: A Celebration of the Holy Spirit
Pentecost is almost here (Sunday 8th June), and as a Catholic school community, we prepare our hearts to celebrate one of the most important feasts in the Church’s calendar. Pentecost marks the moment when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles, filling them with courage, wisdom and the ability to go out and share the Good News with the world. It is often referred to as the “birthday of the Church” because it marks the beginning of the apostles’ mission to spread the Gospel - a mission we continue today in our own school through our words, actions and care for others.
This special day holds particular meaning for our parish priest, Fr Chinua, and his assistant priest Fr Jude, who are members of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit, also known as the Spiritans. For Fr Chinua, Fr Jude and their order, Pentecost is not only a feast day—it is a celebration of their very identity and mission. The Spiritans strive to live lives guided by the Holy Spirit, dedicating themselves to service, especially among those most in need. As we approach Pentecost, may we be inspired by the example of the apostles, Fr Chinua, Fr Jude, and the Spiritans, and ask the Holy Spirit to guide us in all we do as a faith-filled school community.
Students playing at Beauty Park after school
We are aware that some students have been given permission by their families to walk to and wait at Beauty Park after school, often unsupervised, while they wait to be collected. While we understand this may be a convenient arrangement for some families, we strongly encourage all students to remain inside the green gates at school until 3:30pm. During this time, they are supervised by staff and are in a safe and secure environment.
We also remind families that when students are wearing our school uniform, they are representing St Francis Xavier Primary School—whether they are inside the school grounds or in the wider community. It is important that all students continue to act respectfully, safely and responsibly, especially in public spaces like Beauty Park. We appreciate your support in reinforcing this message with your children.
JPC Food Drive
My sincere thanks to all our amazing families in supporting the JPC Community Companion Food Drive over the past few weeks. Our Grade 5 students attended JPC on Tuesday and handed over our very first delivery of donations.
Here is a message I received from JPC later that day.
On behalf of the John Paul College community and the Community Companion Van initiative, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to you and the St Francis Xavier school community for your generous donation of food items in support of our outreach program that was dropped off this morning.
Your contribution has made a tangible difference in helping us continue to provide meals and care to individuals and families experiencing hardship in our local area. The compassion and generosity shown by your school community is deeply appreciated, and it reflects the spirit of our shared Catholic mission to serve those in need.
Please pass on our sincere gratitude to your staff, students and families. We are truly grateful for your support.
We are now wanting to make regular donations from our school, as the Community Companion is a service that runs all throughout the year. Already we have a large number of items ready to be delivered next week - so a big thank you to our amazing families! Please see below a list of the key food items that the van seeks donations of.
School Uniform
At our school assembly on Tuesday, I spoke to the students about three key uniform expectations that are currently not being followed particularly well.
Black School Shoes
On days when there are no Physical Education (Wednesday) or Fitness (Thursday) classes, students must wear all black shoes to school. These can be either school shoes or runners, but they must be completely black. No other colours should be visible on the upper part of the shoe, the laces, or the sole.
Long Pants
There are two types of long pants that can be worn to school, depending on the day:
Navy school pants may be worn when students are in their regular school uniform.
Navy tracksuit pants may be worn on sports uniform days.
Both items are available from the uniform shop.
Leggings are not part of the school uniform and should not be worn on any day. If students are wearing the tunic, they may wear navy stockings or long navy socks underneath.
Winter Jackets and Raincoats
Winter jackets and raincoats are encouraged during the colder months; however, the SFX school windcheater must be worn underneath. Casual hoodies are not permitted at school.
If, for any reason, your child is not wearing the correct uniform, please provide their classroom teacher with a note explaining the reason and how long you expect the uniform issue to continue.
Thank you for your ongoing support with these expectations.
Year 7 Enrolments - 2027
A reminder to our current Grade 5 students that enrolment applications to John Paul College for Year 7, 2027 are due no later than Friday, 1st August this year.
If you are looking to secure a place at JPC, please visit their website and complete the online application:https://www.jpc.vic.edu.au/enrolments/apply-now
It is important for families to be aware that, in recent years, JPC has had long waitlists, and a position cannot be guaranteed if your application is submitted after the closing date. If you have any questions, please contact the College, who will be more than happy to assist.
School Closure Days in Term 2
A reminder to all families that there is a four day holiday from school this weekend due to the King's Birthday Public Holiday on Monday 10th June and a school closure day on Tuesday 10th June.
Students return to school on Wednesday 11th June.
Have a great weekend everyone!
Steve Peart
School Principal