From the Principal

Dear families,

The past two weeks have been an incredibly busy and rewarding time at St Patrick’s, filled with rich learning experiences and wonderful opportunities for our students. Thank you to our dedicated staff for their tireless work in leading and coordinating a range of events that have engaged, challenged, and inspired our students.

From the vibrant celebrations of Harmony Week, where we embraced the beauty of diversity and inclusion, to the excitement of Interschool Sports and Swimming, our students have thrived in experiences that promote teamwork, resilience, and personal growth. We also had the pleasure of welcoming visiting author Jodi Toering, whose storytelling and insights into the writing process ignited creativity and a love of literature in our classrooms.

A particularly significant moment in our school’s journey took place today as we came together to celebrate the completion of our capital works project. This event marked a milestone in ensuring that our students have access to high-quality, modern learning environments that support their educational journey. It was an honour to welcome special guests to share in this occasion, including Catherine King MP, Bishop Paul Bird, Executive Director of DOBCEL Tom Sexton, DOBCEL Deputy Director: Stewardship Megan Ioannou,  and representatives from our Parish schools. Their presence reinforced the strong partnerships and shared commitment to providing the very best for Catholic education in our region.

The completion of this project has transformed our school facilities, creating dynamic, contemporary spaces that foster collaboration, creativity, and deep learning. Classrooms now reflect the needs of 21st-century learners, supporting flexible teaching approaches and enhancing student engagement. It has been wonderful to witness our students and staff embracing these new spaces with such enthusiasm and pride. We are deeply grateful for the support of our partners and broader community, who have been alongside us throughout this journey.

Celebrating the Clare Madden Award for School Spirit

On St Patrick's Day we presented the Clare Madden Award for School Spirit. We give thanks for the care, love, acceptance, respect, and empathy that shine within our school community. We especially acknowledge Poppy, Oliver, Grace and Sam, this year’s recipients of the Clare Madden Award for School Spirit.

These students exemplify Gospel values through their daily actions, inspiring others with their kindness and faith. May they continue to be models of compassion and integrity, living out the spirit of Christ’s love in all they do. Congratulations!

Michael Ymer Parent Information Evening 

On Monday evening, we had the pleasure of welcoming renowned mathematics educator Michael Ymer to St Patrick’s for an engaging and insightful Parent Information session. The evening was a resounding success, with a fantastic turnout of parents eager to learn more about how we can support our children in developing strong mathematical understanding.

Michael’s energetic and hands-on approach to mathematics was truly inspiring. He demonstrated how game-based learning fosters deep comprehension and supports the transfer of mathematical concepts across different contexts. By engaging with numbers, patterns, and problem-solving in an interactive way, students develop fluency and confidence while having fun—transforming maths from something intimidating into an enjoyable and meaningful experience.

Throughout the evening, Michael showcased practical strategies and activities that families can use at home to reinforce mathematical thinking. From dice games that build number sense to logic challenges that develop reasoning skills, he highlighted the power of games in making learning engaging and effective. His message was clear: when children see maths as a dynamic and enjoyable challenge, they are more likely to retain and apply their knowledge in real-world situations.

Thank you to all the parents who attended and engaged with Michael’s ideas so enthusiastically. Your commitment to supporting your child’s learning is invaluable. We look forward to continuing to embed these rich, game-based strategies into our classrooms, ensuring that every student at St Patrick’s builds a strong, confident, and transferable understanding of mathematics.

School Photos and Cross Country

We are aware that there was a scheduling clash between our School Photo Day and the Cross Country event, both originally set for May 12th. To ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for our students, we have been able to reschedule School Photos to Tuesday, May 27th.

The Cross Country event will proceed as planned on May 12th, allowing students to fully participate without concern. We appreciate the understanding and patience of families as we worked to resolve this conflict.

First Communion Preparation – 2025

We welcome families to the first step in preparing for their child’s Sacrament of First Communion at St Patrick’s Cathedral Parish. This important milestone in your child’s faith journey is coordinated by the parish and supported by our parish schools. We look forward to walking alongside you and your child as they continue on their sacramental journey.

The Sacrament of First Communion typically takes place in Grade 4, providing students with the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the Eucharist and their relationship with Christ.

If you would like your child to participate in the Sacrament of First Communion in 2025, please complete the necessary details on this form. All information will be kept strictly confidential. Further details, including parent information sessions, Masses to attend etc. is contained within the form for your reference.

We look forward to sharing this special time with our students and families.

Grade 5/6 Camp – Araluen Lutheran Camp, Anglesea

We are excited to announce that our Grade 5/6 students will be heading to Araluen Lutheran Camp in Anglesea for their school camp from Monday, May 19th to Wednesday, May 21st.

Camp is always a wonderful opportunity for students to develop independence, strengthen friendships, and engage in a range of outdoor and team-building activities. Further details, including packing lists and permission forms, will be sent directly to Grade 5/6 families early in Term 2.

We look forward to an enriching and memorable experience for our senior students!

2026 Foundation Enrolments

2026 Foundation Enrolments are now open. If you have a child in kindergarten and you would like to secure a place for them in Foundation at St Patrick's in 2026, you need to follow the enrolment application process outlined on our website: www.spballarat.catholic.edu.au

Please note - this is for all enrolments including our current St Patrick's families. Applications close on 22nd May.

Winter School Uniform (Term 2 & 3)

From the beginning of term 2 students will be required to wear their full winter school uniform. Please see the below list of uniform items that may be worn during this time. There are many items available at our second hand uniform shop - please come in and have a look and we're happy to help out. A reminder that in 2024 we added a school beanie to the uniform which can be purchased directly from Administration.

Girls -

Pinafore - Gordon check tartan

Trousers - Long grey gabardine pants (no jeans)

Shirt - Gold polo shirt (long or short sleeve).

Jumper - Bottle Green, Woolen jumper with school logo.

Tights - Bottle green

Socks - Plain white or St Patrick’s socks

Shoes - Black (must be all black)

Hair accessories - Green or gold ribbons; Green, gold or white hair bands.

Boys -

Trousers - Long grey gabardine pants (no shorts or jeans)

Jumper - Bottle Green, Woolen jumper with school logo.

Shirt - Gold polo shirt (long or short sleeve).

Socks - Grey

Shoes - Black (must be all black)

Sports Uniform Boys & Girls

Tracksuit pants - Bottle green (shorts may be worn during sport lessons)

Shirts - Gold polo shirts.

Socks - Plain White anklets or St. Patrick’s socks

Shoes - Sport shoes

Year 6 Jumper - Only worn with the Sports Uniform on Sports Days

Tracksuits are for both the boys and the girls. They are to be worn on sport days only or if requested on certain excursions. The sports days are listed below for all classes.

SchoolTV 

This week on SchoolTV you will find additional resources available to gain greater insight into the importance of sleep and sleep habits.

"Children these days seem to be going to bed later and later. Distractions such as TV, computer games, internet, texting friends and social media are all having a negative impact on a child’s sleep time. Sleep is vital to a child’s wellbeing. When children sleep well, they are more settled, happier and ready for school the next day. Sleep also strengthens their immune systems, supports overall development and their ability to function properly on a daily basis. Children who do not get enough sleep show increased levels of aggressive behaviour, are less attentive and are much less active. Trying to catch up on sleep on weekends is not the answer and can still lead to severe sleep deprivation. Recent studies have shown than many children, especially teenagers, are missing out on vital REM sleep, which is particularly important for memory and learning."

Click on the link below to access a wealth of videos, articles, and resources on the aforementioned topics.

All Editions | St Patrick's School - Ballarat (schooltv.me) 

Kind regards,

Ben Shields