Principal's Update

Dear Families,

Welcome back to another school year at St Margaret’s. I hope you all enjoyed a restful and enjoyable summer holiday, filled with special moments with family and friends. It has been wonderful to welcome our students back to school, and there has been such a positive and uplifting vibe around the school as we begin 2026. It is a lovely reminder of just how fortunate we are to be part of the St Margaret’s community.

Like many of you, I cherished the opportunity to spend time with my own family over the holidays. I was even lucky enough to bump into a couple of St Margaret’s families while away, which was a timely reminder of what a small world we live in and the strong connections that make our community so special.

Welcome:  A very special welcome to our newest students, our Prep children. Our Preps had their very first day on Friday, and it was a joy to see them settling in so well and confidently exploring the school. Our Year 6 buddies, along with all staff and students, will continue to support them as they begin their journey at St Margaret’s. I have been incredibly impressed by how calm and settled the Prep classrooms have been, which is a credit to both the children and the staff.

I would also like to warmly welcome new staff members joining us in 2026. Mr Raymond Mammone (Year 6) is beginning his teaching career after working as a Learning Support Officer across the school over the past few years. We are very fortunate to have Mr Mammone joining our teaching team and wish him every success as he begins his career in education.

In addition, we have welcomed three new Learning Support Officers to our school this year. Sophie Kent, Leah Athanasiadis and Olivia Anile are all highly qualified and bring valuable experience to their roles. We are grateful to have them supporting our students’ learning and wellbeing and warmly welcome them to St Margaret’s.

We are also delighted to welcome new families and students across all year levels. Starting at a new school is a significant milestone, and we sincerely hope your time at St Margaret’s is filled with joy, learning and strong connections. Our school community continues to grow, with almost 470 students enrolled in 2026, which is a wonderful reflection of the trust families place in our school.

SunSmart School: As we begin the year in February, we are mindful of the hot weather and the high or extreme UV levels that are common at this time. Please ensure students wear their school hats and bring plenty of water each day so they can remain cool and hydrated. Student safety is always our priority, and we will continue to make sensible adjustments when required during periods of extreme heat.

Morning Procedure: I would also like to remind families that school gates open at 8:30 am each morning. Students should not be left unsupervised outside the school grounds before this time. I appreciate your support in helping us ensure the safety of all children. 

Privacy; Photographing and Filming Children: A reminder to all families and visitors regarding the photographing and filming of students. While on school grounds, including at assemblies and school events, families are asked to photograph or film only their own child. Images or footage of other children should not be taken, shared or posted on social media or digital platforms. These expectations help us protect the privacy and wellbeing of all students, and we thank you for your understanding.

Building Project: Finally, work on our building project continued over the holidays, and the new building is now approximately 80 percent complete. Internal plastering and painting have recently been completed, and the classrooms are really beginning to take shape. We are anticipating moving into the new building in Weeks 6 or 7 of this term, which is an exciting milestone for our school.

2026 is set to be a wonderful year, filled with learning, growth and exciting opportunities. I look forward to working in partnership with you and sharing another successful year with our students and families.

Warm regards,

John