Mrs Ryan's Fortnightly Reflections

What a term we have had! The effort, dedication, commitment and engagement across our community is definitely worth celebrating. It has been a term of huge success, growth and achievement. From winning consistently across our local community in sport, nurturing our love of the arts with a production pending, and being active citizens in our local and wider community through kinder visits, camps, public speaking and community events; St Mary’s is truly a community of learning. I would like to thank our families for your ongoing support and commitment to our school in getting your children up and ready for school! It is a joy to work and live in this community, where our children are truly happy at school! 

The staff have worked tirelessly this term to assess and progress every child to the best of their ability. We hope that families have had the opportunity to read and celebrate your children’s learning via their reports on Compass. St Mary’s educators work extremely hard each and every day to remain committed to our holistic learning and teaching, and that is evident when I walk around the school. The level of education, skill and practice our children are receiving is exceptional. I do wish all of our staff a well-deserved break over the coming fortnight! 

An update on our uniform. I recently met with Chad from Hip Pocket, who so positively advocates for all of our families’ needs. Hip Pocket have sourced a long-sleeve navy top for our learners to wear under the tunic and under our T-shirts if seeking something additional in the cooler months. We are exploring a long-sleeve option, similar to the polo short-sleeve shirt, and will keep families informed. A reminder to all families that while St Mary’s uniform offers flexibility, we are all expected to wear items specific to our school name and brand. I thank the many families who uphold this expectation daily. 

Next term, I will be reaching out to our parents who have offered to support some of our special days and events. We are hoping to set dates and plan a social adult and child event in the coming terms ahead. While fundraising via such events is of benefit to the school, the greater priority is to simply connect in a social setting as a community! I hope that many of our families can support these events. 

Next term, in Years 3–6, we will be fully committed to the final weeks of production! Our production, One World, Many Stories, has been composed and choreographed by Mrs Lloyd and Mrs Chapman, and promises to be an event of fun and adventure. The main cast and all cohorts are well into rehearsals, with the first fortnight of next term dedicated to significant time in the arts! We hope all of our friends, families and the community can come and see us all shine! 

I do hope that the fortnight ahead allows families a rest from the school routine, time to gather and spend with family, and the opportunity to reset for the term ahead. Every day and term is busy, and I hope the break ahead is well received by you all. Please stay safe and well, and we look forward to seeing everyone return on Monday 13th July.    

In faith, trust and love.  

Jasmine Ryan  

Principal