Principals' Message
Dear Parents and Carers,
As we approach the halfway point of this term we would like to acknowledge the staff and students for their efforts so far this term. In Week 4 and Week 5 our 'Meet and Greet' learning conferences took place. Once again, these conferences were very successful and proved to be a fantastic opportunity for our students to discuss and reflect on their individual learning goals for the academic year ahead with their teachers and parents.
Research shows that strong parent-student-school partnerships have a positive impact on student achievement. One simple way of being involved is to ask your child what they have 'learned' at the end of each school day, not what they have 'done'. A simple change of language places the focus on learning rather than on completing tasks.
Leadership Mass 2025
Last week we celebrated the start of our new school year as a Catholic Community with our Leadership Mass. It was wonderful to have our Year 6 families and many parishioners join us to celebrate our first school Mass of the year at St Patrick's Church. The Year 6 Captains and Leaders were inducted and received their badges which were pinned on by a parent or family member. They recited a prayer of dedication in which they accepted the responsibility of being Leaders of St Joseph's School in 2025. Thank you to Fr Sabu, our very supportive Parish Priest who welcomed us all back for the new school year and presided over the Mass.
Congratulations to our Year 6 students, it has been a privilege to witness them embrace their leadership responsibilities to commence the year. They have approached the beginning of their senior year with a great deal of positivity and have been great role models in all facets of school life. It was particularly heartwarming to see their interactions with their Kindergarten buddies at Mass as they received a candle to signify the beginning of their educational journey at St Joseph's.
ACS Leadership Team Visit
Last week, we had the privilege of welcoming Regina Menz, Director of Armidale Catholic Schools, along with John O'Connor and Katie Hanes, School Performance Leaders, to our school. During their visit, we had the opportunity to present our 2025 Annual Improvement Plan and share our priorities areas for the year.
The ACS team also participated in learning walks and talks throughout the learning spaces and were highly impressed by our calm classrooms, the engagement of our students and the quality learning and teaching taking place. We were also fortunate to have Fr. Sabu join us for morning tea, where he had the chance to speak with the ACS team before their departure. It was a valuable and productive visit for everyone involved.
P&F BBQ
Many thanks to all families who attended the P&F BBQ last Thursday evening. This event was another example of the positive and supportive community we have here at St Joseph’s. Thank you also to the P&F for their organisation and to Fr Sabu, Mrs Mitchell and staff for their attendance. Your involvement is truly appreciated!
Open Day
Please share the details of our upcoming Open Day with those who may be interested in learning more about our wonderful school.
Enrolling Now for Kindergarten 2026
Our enrolment period for Kindergarten 2026 is now open! Please visit https://stjosephstamworth.catholic.edu.au/enrolment/ for enrolment details or contact the office on 6765 4079 for further information. Enrolment applications must be accompanied by the relevant supporting documents as listed on the cover page of the application form. Applications close on Tuesday 8th April. If you know anyone who has a child wishing to start Kindergarten at St Joseph's next year, please share this information with them.
May God bless you and your family.
Maree Holland & Greg O'Toole
Co-Principals
St Joseph's School - a Faith Filled Community Where Learning Matters