Principal's News

Last week we farewelled Sophie for the year as she commences her family leave and awaits the birth of her precious baby. We thank her for her work at HR in Year 3/4 this year and look forward to hearing the happy news of her new arrival.

We thank Ruth for accepting the role as class teacher for 3/4 White for the remainder of this school year. It is comforting to know that the children will finish their year with a familiar and experienced teacher.

Sam is Cutting for a Cure

I asked Sam to write a short message for families about his efforts to raise funds for Cancer. In his efforts Sam is tapping into the school values of respect and kindness, and living Mercy. We are all proud of Sam’s commitment. I urge you to donate to Sam’s initiative.

My name is Sam and I am in 3/4W.

Next Friday on the 21st of November I will be shaving my hair, which I have been growing for the past 2 years. My hair is now past my shoulders and ready for a big chop! I will donate my hair to Kids with Cancer’s Wigs 4 Kids charity - they will make my hair into wigs for children who are getting treatment for cancer and have lost their own hair.

I have also raised money for the Cancer Council to fund research to find cures for different cancers. So far I have raised nearly $900 from many generous donations, which is more than I ever thought I could. There is still time for you to make a donation if you can - https://fundraising.cancervic.org.au/fundraisers/samuelmitchell

Thank you for your support!

Sam

Farewell Father Thang

As previously advised, Father Thang Vu is moving on as our parish priest to St Joseph’s Parish, Springvale. Our parish and school community will farewell Father Thang at Mass at St Brendan’s Church on Sunday 30 November at 10:30am. Please come along to thank Father for his work in our school and parish, particularly in relation to sacraments. I am grateful to Father for his calm spiritual guidance and the gentle and respectful way he works with our students.

Vinnie’s Christmas Hampers

Sunday 16 November, World Day of the Poor is a timely reminder to us about our outreach to those who need our support in our local area. Each year HR families support Vinnies in bringing food for Christmas hampers. If you can help this cause your donations will be greatly appreciated. Ruth has provided a suggested donation list but I know that all packaged Christmas food items will be gratefully received.

Operoo Transition to nForma

As advised, Operoo will cease operations in January and therefore, we have had to organise a new provider; nForma. You will be familiar with this company as this is also the platform we use for reports. All the information currently held on the Operoo platform will be transferred to nForma so there is nothing for you to do. All excursions will now be sent from the nForma platform.

Prep Transition

Our Preps came to visit for their second class session last week. They had a lovely time in their new classrooms with Lauren and Samantha and they left happily with a small gift in their hands. In the evening their parents joined us for an information session on all things HR and what they can expect in 2026. It was lovely for our teachers to meet the parents and we all look forward to the next transition session on 27th November.

Victorian Government Policy for Devices

The Victorian Government has clear guidelines on the use of mobile phones and smart devices in schools.

Key points of the policy:

All mobile phones must be switched off and securely stored in the office on arrival at school.
Smart watches and similar devices (such as Space Talk) must have notifications and communication functions turned off while on school grounds.
Students who need to contact home should do so via the school office. Parents who need to reach their child should also call the office.
Devices are brought to school at the owner’s risk; the school is not responsible for loss or damage.

These expectations aim to reduce distractions, prevent misuse, and support student wellbeing. Please support this policy by ensuring your child understands the school’s expectations. Working together, we can help students develop healthy digital habits and make school a phone-free, focused environment.

Student Free Day

Please be reminded that Friday 28 November is a Student Free Day. On this day staff will be working with Father Elio Capra on sacramentality at MACS in Moonee Ponds.

School Dates 2026

Term One

✅ Tuesday 27th January - Staff begin and office opens (no children)

✅ Wednesday 28th January - Friday 30 January (Prep only 8:50 -12 and Year 1-6 testing and Meet the Teacher- details to come)

✅ Monday 2nd February - all students 8:50 - 3:15

✅ Term finishes Thursday 2 April*

Term Two

✅ Mon 20 April-Fri 26 June

Term Three

✅ Mon 13 July-Fri 18 Sept

Term Four

✅ Monday 5th Oct- Tues 15 Dec

*The last day of each term is a casual clothes day and finishes at 1:00pm.

Enjoy the week ahead

Christine