From The Principal

  Dear Families,

Lent began last week on Ash Wednesday, Lent is a forty day period preparing for Easter. It reminds us of the forty-days that Jesus spent in the wilderness before he took up his ministry. During this time he fasted and prayed. Lent is a time of self reflection and prayer for us as well. During this period, we are called to focus on becoming closer to Jesus by praying a little more, doing good deeds for others, going without something we like and giving generously to others in need. Pope Francis has suggested the following;

• Fast from hurting words and say kind words
• Fast from sadness and be filled with gratitude
• Fast from anger and be filled with patience
• Fast from pessimism and be filled with hope
• Fast from worries and have trust in God.

Parent Expectations 

As members of our school community we all abide by expectations. Clearly defined expectations contribute to a positive and conducive learning environment. Over the past weeks our teachers have taught and reviewed with the children their expectations. At our first staff meeting, I spoke about our professionalism and expectations. As a school and system we also have expectations of the behaviour of parents. Some of them are;

• Upholding the school’s core beliefs and values
• Respect school staff and accept their authority and direction within the exercise of their duties at school
• Observe all school rules as required
• Behave with respect and courtesy, and consideration for others
• Use the school’s Complaint Handling Policy to seek resolution for any problems that arise and accept the school’s procedures for handling matters of complaint

Some unacceptable behaviour is;

• Approaching a child that is not your own with a view to disciplining that child for their behaviour
• Approaching other school parents to resolve issues arising between students at school
• Corresponding or communicating with school staff in a manner which is unreasonable (including for example, via email or app’s) in terms of the frequency or volume of communications, or the nature or tone of such communications 

A  detailed Code of Conduct for parents is on our school website.

Remember that collaboration between the school and parents is crucial for the overall success of the students. By maintaining clear and consistent expectations, you help create a positive and supportive learning environment for everyone involved.

School Uniform

Thank you parents for your commitment to ensuring our children are in their full school uniform. A friendly reminder that shoes should be all black, including soles. The shorts worn by girls must be purchased from the uniform shop and white socks are worn with our sports uniform. 

By adhering to these uniform expectations, we contribute to a sense of unity and pride within our school community. If children present at school not wearing the correct uniform, you will receive a notice via Operoo. If there is a valid reason please let your child’s teacher know via a letter or seesaw.

We appreciate your ongoing support and cooperation to ensure your children are wearing the correct uniform.

School Student Leaders

Our 2024 school leaders have accepted various responsible roles at St Anne’s. They will play a crucial role representing their fellow students, being positive role models and assisting to enhance our positive culture. The leaders will also organise various activities and events throughout the year. 

Congratulations to;

School Leaders

Adele L, Alana M, Isla A, Ben K and Eli O 

Sports Leaders

McKillop - Eliza M, Carter R Edmends - Anastasia A, Lucas T

Feenan - Harper H, Riley P Crowley - Evie J, Eliza L, Jaxon R

RE

Avah K, Elsa A, Denith M, Harry N, Hannah C

Environmental

Amelia V, Matilda W, Stella C, Eden H, Mia H, Leo K, Lucy K, Sophie L, Saxon M, Analina P, Sybella J

Positive Behaviour for Learning

Chelsea T, Scarlett B, Olivia R, Piper V, Milagros Q, Scarlett M, Milla G

Environmental - Chickens

Ivy S, Will R, Eamon G, Mirabella C, Jett L, Summer D, Gabby E, Ellen J Mc,Mikaila S

Tech Team

Hamish C, Will B, Eoin F

Positive Behaviour For Learning - PBL

It is important that children show respect to others as it contributes to their overall development and wellbeing. Here are several key reasons why teaching and fostering respect in children is crucial:                                                                                                                     Social Skills: Learning to be respectful helps children develop essential social skills. Respectful behaviour promotes positive interactions with peers, teachers, family members. This foundation of social skills is vital for building healthy relationships throughout their lives.

Positive Relationships: Respect is a fundamental component of building and maintaining positive relationships. When children learn to treat others with kindness, consideration, and empathy, they are more likely to form meaningful connections with others.

Conflict Resolution: Respectful behaviour is a cornerstone of effective conflict resolution. Children who understand the importance of respecting others' perspectives and opinions are better equipped to navigate conflicts in a constructive manner, finding solutions and compromises instead of resorting to aggression or hostility.

Emotional Regulation: Children who are respectful are more likely to understand and regulate their emotions, expressing themselves in a healthy and constructive manner. This emotional regulation is crucial for overall mental well-being.

Academic Success: Respectful behavior in the classroom contributes to a positive learning environment. When children are respectful to their teachers and peers, it fosters a positive atmosphere for learning and collaboration, 

Personal Development: Respect is a foundational value that contributes to children's overall personal development. It helps shape their character, instilling qualities such as responsibility, integrity, and empathy. 

In summary, instilling a sense of respect in children is vital for their social, emotional, and academic development. It lays the groundwork for positive relationships, effective communication, and a well-rounded, responsible approach to life.

At St Anne’s our teaching points will be;                                                                    

Use friendly language                                                                                                                      

Use manners                                                                                                                                     

Take care of property                                                                                                                       

Take turns                                                                                                                                             

Listen to others                                                                                                                               

When in the classroom use an inside voice

May God bless you and take care

Ms Noelene Hussey