It was such a joy to see so many students out enjoying Fun Fit Friday this morning! The energy on the oval was matched only by the wonderful buzz around the coffee cart, with parents and friends coming together to chat, laugh, and connect.

Moments like these remind us that community is everything. It’s what sets our school apart — the sense of belonging, the shared smiles, and the support we offer one another. It’s what makes us more than just a school — it’s what makes us the best.

Thanks for taking the time to read this weeks newsletter!

Staff Retreat

Last week, our staff took part in a two-day retreat held in Portsea – a chance to step back from the busyness of school life and focus on learning and wellbeing. On Thursday, we had the opportunity to work with Glen Pearsall, a leading expert in teaching and learning. He guided us through High Impact Questioning techniques that will help deepen student thinking and engagement in the classroom. On Friday, the focus shifted to staff wellbeing. We took time for self-reflection and then enjoyed a high-energy African drumming session – a joyful, hands-on experience that gave us insight into African culture through rhythm and music. It was a refreshing and inspiring two days for the whole team.

Open Day - Monday 16th June

Our final Open Day for 2025 is happening next Monday, 16th June. If you have family or friends who are starting to explore school options for 2026 and beyond, we’d love for you to spread the word. It’s a great chance for prospective families to see our school in action, meet staff, and learn more about what makes our community so special.

Kinder Visits

Our Kinder Community work has officially kicked off, with 5C leading the way! On Wednesday, they visited the students at Hampton Community Kindergarten and were absolutely amazing — showing kindness, leadership, and plenty of enthusiasm.

The Year 5s supported the kinder kids with drawing, reading, and play activities, building lovely connections while also growing their own confidence and communication skills. We’re so proud of the way they represented St Mary’s.

5MG continued the good work on Thursday with the 3-year-old group, and our Year 4 students will soon be visiting Holy Trinity and Helen Paul kinders. We can’t wait to see these beautiful partnerships continue to grow!

Holiday Program

MACSEYE is running a fun and engaging school holiday program this July. The program runs throughout the school holidays and features exciting activities and incursions including movie days, a ‘secret agent academy’, circus day and more!

Current OSHC users: Book now via the Xplor Home app

New families: Enrol first via the enrolment link in the brochure and you’ll get instructions on how to book

Bookings close: Friday 4 July

Please note: Regular before and after school care sessions will not be available during the holidays. For more information, contact MACSEYE by email contact@macseye.vic.edu.au or1300 501 029

P&F Casino Royale

Get ready for a night of glamour, entertainment, and community spirit at our Casino Royale event! Join us on Saturday 26th July, 7:00–11:30 PM at the Hampton Rovers Clubhouse for an unforgettable evening.

Tickets are $105 and include casino-style games (with fun chips), drinks, canapés, a DJ, photo booth, and exciting live and silent auctions. It’s a fantastic way to connect with friends – both old and new – while supporting our 2025 School Fundraising Goal.

Donations Needed

We’re asking each year level to help source auction items – from smaller gifts to bigger experience packages – to help make the night a great success. Thank you to the families who have donated items so far!

For more info and how to get involved, head to the P&F page of the newsletter. Let’s make it a night to remember!

Sacrament of Reconciliation

The Sacrament of Reconciliation will take place on Friday 20th June at 2:00pm at St Mary’s Church. Candidates are asked to wear their full school uniform for the liturgy.

As part of their preparation, students recently took part in a special Reflection Day, where they prayed, sang, listened to scripture, and reflected on the themes of forgiveness and God’s love. A big thank you to all the staff who helped make the day so meaningful.

Thank you also to Fr Martin for leading the Family Preparation Session, and to all families for your involvement and support—it plays such an important role in your child’s faith journey.

If you haven’t already, please send through a copy of your child’s Baptism Certificate as soon as possible.

Parent Teacher Interviews

Information about booking your Parent Teacher Interview times was sent out earlier this week via nForma.

Please note that on interview days, students will remain at school until the usual finishing time of 3:15pm. If your interview is scheduled before 3:15pm, you are welcome to collect your child from the school hall immediately following your meeting.

These interviews are a valuable opportunity to discuss your child’s progress, review their formal school report, and collaborate on ways to support their learning for the rest of the year.

NCCD Collection Process

Please see information regarding NCCD Collection Process

Thanks

Steele Anderson

Parents and Friends