Dear Parents, Carers and Friends of St Brendan’s,

There is a beautiful rhythm to this part of the term. Our school routines are settled, learning in all classes is in full swing, and there is a steady hum of activity across our classrooms, our playgrounds and our parish. Week 5 has been full of energy, achievement, faith and community. I am so proud of the way our students continue to show confidence, respect and care as they try to walk in the footsteps of Jesus this year.

NAPLAN 2026

On Wednesday 16th and Thursday 17th March, our Year 3 and Year 5 students will participate in NAPLAN (National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy). These assessments provide a snapshot of student progress in literacy and numeracy and help to inform our teaching and our planning. At St Brendan’s, we approach NAPLAN calmly and confidently. It is one measure of learning but it is certainly not the whole story. Our focus remains on consistent, explicit teaching, strong feedback, and ensuring every child feels supported and prepared. We encourage students to simply do their best. We encourage them to approach each session with a steady mindset, and remember that their growth and effort are what matter most. Thank you for ensuring your child is well rested and present during the testing window.

Sibling Enrolments – 2027 & 2028

School tours for 2027 and 2028 are now underway.

If you have a younger child who will be starting with us in 2027 or 2028, please let us know immediately. Siblings are offered places first; however, we must know that you intend to enrol so we can plan accurately and determine how many additional places we are able to offer to new families.

Early communication is incredibly helpful as we work through enrolment process and projections. Please drop into the office to get an enrolment form for 2027 or 2028. Thank you for your support in this matter.

Specialist Precinct Update – Portables Nearing Handover

We are very close to the handover of our new portable classrooms that will house Visual Arts and Science/STEM. It has been a journey with weather delays and a few necessary adjustments along the way. But I am pleased to tell you that the end is in sight. The spaces are looking fantastic and will add real strength to our growing specialist precinct. I look forward to sharing photos and inviting you in to view them once they are fully operational.

Thank you for your patience and interest as this project nears completion.

Sacramental Program – Reconciliation

Parent/Child Workshop

On Thursday 26th February, our First Reconciliation Parent/Child Workshop was held in ST Brendan's church. It was wonderful to see families learning together in preparation for this important sacrament.

There was a calm and thoughtful atmosphere throughout the evening, and our students approached the experience with sincerity, openness and reverence. My sincere thanks go to our wonderful REL’s; Erica Hudson and Daniela Ruberto, and to our Year 3/4 team; Jess Danckert, Kate O’Leary, Sarah Besley and Erica Hudson.

Parish Commitment Mass

On Saturday, our Reconciliation candidates and their families gathered for the Parish Commitment Mass. It was a special celebration in St Brendan’s church. The Mass was beautifully reverent, respectful and well attended. Our children represented our school and their families with maturity and grace. They were lovingly supported by their parents and warmly welcomed by our parish community.

We are grateful for the partnership between school and parish as we walk alongside our families in faith.

Celebrating Father Shymon

This week, we also congratulate Father Shymon on the 17th anniversary of his ordination.

Father, we are very fortunate to have your steady leadership, pastoral care and presence in our community. Thank you for the way you support our school and nurture our parish. We wish you every blessing on this anniversary.

Senior Athletics Carnival

Our Senior Athletics Carnival was held on Friday 27th February and what a day it was! After we waited for the thunder to abate, the students participated in an excellent carnival.

My sincere thanks to Tom Porter for his outstanding organisation and leadership of the day. Thank you also to our teachers, LSOs, parent helpers and our fantastic House Captains who ensured the event ran smoothly and with team spirit and lots of fun.

The spirit of participation, encouragement and perseverance was evident everywhere. Students cheered one another on, celebrated effort and showed wonderful sportsmanship.

Congratulations to Thornell House on being our overall winners for 2026!

Days like this remind us how powerful teamwork and house spirit can be.

Year 3/4 O Assembly

A huge congratulations to 3/4O on a very engaging and well presented assembly this week.

It was polished, confident and thoughtfully presented. The students spoke clearly and proudly about their learning, and it was evident how much preparation had gone into the performance.

Well done to Kate O’Leary and her wonderful class. We are so proud of you all. Thank you for sharing your learning with us.

Year 5 Visit to Padua College – Tyabb Campus

On Thursday 5th March, our Year 5 students and their parents have the opportunity to visit Padua College, Tyabb Campus.

Parents will enjoy a 30 minute tour with Mrs Christine Ward, Head of Campus, while students participate in two engaging activity rotations before returning to school by bus.

These transition opportunities are valuable in building confidence and familiarity as our students begin to look ahead to their secondary years.

International Women’s Day

This week, we celebrate International Women’s Day.

I would like to acknowledge and congratulate the women of our St Brendan’s community: the staff, mothers, grandmothers, carers and parishioners. The strength, wisdom, compassion and leadership you bring to our community each day make a profound difference. I am extremely grateful to everyone who brings a piece of themselves to St Brendan’s and shares it in a loving and community minded way with others.

In a school where we value that every person is known, encouraged, challenged and supported, the contribution of women in homes, in classrooms, in leadership roles and in quiet acts of service cannot be overstated. Thank you for the example you set and the care you give. I truly appreciate each and everyone of you. Have a wonderful day on Sunday.

Thank you to parents, carers and volunteers for your partnership, your contributions and your trust. St Brendan’s is a special place because of the people who make up our community. I feel very lucky and even more grateful each and every day to lead this wonderful school.

Have a wonderful week.

Warm regards,

Sue Carr