Principal Report
St Mary's Podcast
We are excited to launch our new St Mary’s podcast channel. This is another way for us to share what matters at our school — our approach to teaching and learning, useful information for families, and a clearer picture of life at St Mary’s for both current and prospective parents.
We have already released three episodes. These include a conversation about our teaching and learning approach, a podcast for new Prep families on what to expect in the early days of school, and an introduction to one of our newest staff members, Mr Grant Douglas.
There will be plenty more podcasts to come as the year continues.
Thank you to Team Cast for their support and work in helping bring this project to life.
Our Podcast channel can be found here - https://stmarys.transistor.fm/
New Website
We are also excited to launch our new school website, which has been redesigned with a more modern look and feel. The site has been built with prospective families in mind, making it easier to learn about what St Mary’s offers, book a school tour, and access enrolment information.
We encourage all families to take a look and explore the updated site: https://www.smhampton.catholic.edu.au/
Year 6 Leadership Speeches
Today, our Year 6 students presented their leadership speeches. We are very proud of the way they approached this important moment as they begin their final year of primary school.
Our leadership model is unique, with every student taking on a leadership portfolio. We believe all students have the capacity to lead and to develop these skills, setting them up well for the years ahead.
Leadership roles will be announced next week at the Beginning of Year Mass.
Swimming Trials
On Thursday and Friday, over 30 students were at the Danny Frawley Center and trialled to represent St Mary’s at the Dendy District Swimming Championships. It was great to see so many parents there bright and early, supporting the students and creating a positive atmosphere.
Thank you to Ms Sullivan for coordinating the trials, with the support of many staff and parents. The final team will be announced shortly.
Parent Information Evening
Thank you to all families who attended our Parent Information Evening. It was great to see such a strong turnout and to spend time together as a school community.
Class teachers will share any relevant information with families who were unable to attend. We hope the evening was worthwhile and that it provided clarity around the year ahead.
School Assembly
A reminder that our school assemblies are held on Wednesdays from 2:30pm to 3:00pm.
Next week, we will be presenting SRC badges. Class teachers will notify parents if their child has been selected for this role. Our Year 6 students will also be presenting at the assembly.
Beginning of Year Mass
A reminder that our Beginning of Year Mass will be held next Thursday at 9:15am. This will be a chance for us to come together and celebrate the start of the school year.
Thank you to Father Martin for hosting the Mass and to Mr Simpson for organising.
Shrove Tuesday – Tuesday 17 February
On Tuesday 17 February, our students will be celebrating Shrove Tuesday as part of our school’s support of Project Compassion.
Students will enjoy a pikelet/pancake during the day and are encouraged to bring a gold coin donation. All money raised will go towards Project Compassion, helping to support people around the world who are living in extreme poverty.
Shrove Tuesday is a special time in the Church year that invites us not only to enjoy sharing food together, but also to think about how we can give generously and care for others, especially those in need. Thank you for your continued support of this meaningful cause.
Sibling Enrolments
Sibling enrolments for Prep 2027 are now open.
Applications can be made online using the link below: https://www.smhampton.catholic.edu.au/enrolment/apply-for-prep
Please note that we will no longer be accepting paper enrolments. All applications must be submitted online via the link above or through the school website.
School Tours
A reminder to please encourage prospective families to book in for a school tour.
Exciting News
Lastly, we have some exciting news to share. Two of our staff members, Gabi Vass (Year 5 Teacher) and Bianca Ludeman (Year 1 Teacher), are each expecting their first child this year. Miss Vass will be taking leave from the end of Term 1, and Miss Ludeman will be taking leave from the end of Term 2.
We wish them both all the best as they prepare for this next chapter.
Thanks
Steele