From the Principal

Dear St Liborius School Community,

As we begin the beautiful season of Advent, we are reminded of the profound hope that this time brings. Today as a school, we lit the first candle on our Advent wreath, symbolising the hope that Jesus brings into our world. The first candle of Advent encourages us to reflect on the hope we can offer to one another. In our interactions with each other—whether at school, at home, or in our wider community—let us be mindful of how we can extend hope to others. Sometimes, a kind word, a helping hand, or a listening ear is all it takes to bring light into someone’s day. This Advent let's commit ourselves to being hope-filled people, ready to share the love and joy that Jesus has shown us.

Staffing Appointments:

Over the past week, we have been busily interviewing candidates for our position of Deputy Principal: Community Wellbeing. It has been heartening to meet with people who have such a passion for our community and for bringing out the best in our students, staff and community. After a difficult decision-making period, I am excited to share that the successful applicant for this position is Darby Walsh.

Darby is currently working at St Francis of the Fields, Strathfieldsaye with leadership experience both within the Primary School setting and community- based sporting organisations. Darby brings with him a passion for mental health and wellbeing and has recently completed postgraduate studies in Masters of Educational Wellbeing: Positive Mental Health. Outside of the school environment, seeing the need to support the mental health of the young people within his football club, Piccola United, Darby proactively sought ways to support them, through the becoming a presenter for "Liminal Wellbeing". Darby now presents to a range of sporting clubs, including their coaches and families.

Darby's other passion within the school setting is the teaching of Mathematics and through this, has co-authored a peer reviewed mathematics journal article with Ann Gervasoni. Credentials aside, I know that we will each appreciate Darby's commitment to community and warm personality, and he is excited to meet you all over the days ahead as we prepare for 2025 and beyond. I am sure that we will all make Darby feel welcome and support his transition to St Liborius.

Next year, we also welcome the return of Annie Byrne to our school community, as a member of our teaching staff. Many of you will recognise Annie, as she is well known to our students and families, having previously worked with us as an LSO and has spent this year serving as a CRT. Annie’s warmth, dedication, and connection with our students will undoubtedly continue to enrich the experiences of our school community.

Preparing for 2025

As previously communicated, our Pupil Free days for 2025 have been set by Catholic Education Sandhurst Limited. These days will be crucial for supporting our staff to implement the Magnify project with fidelity and confidence, in the interest of our students wellbeing and growth. An updated list of these dates is included in this newsletter.

Kelly Sports Holiday Program

A reminder that this Friday is also a Pupil Free Day, as our staff are preparing for the year ahead. Kelly sports have a program available on this day, as well as on Friday 20th December, which is the day after our students finish. Bookings are available on their website.

Wishing you all a blessed Advent season,

Alannah Darmody

Principal