Dear St Bernard’s Families,

I am both honored and excited to join this incredible community as your new principal. As I walk through the school, I’m already struck by the warmth, kindness, energy, and passion that permeates every corner of our school. It is clear that our students, teachers, and families are dedicated to fostering a nurturing environment where learning is not only celebrated but deeply valued. My goal as your principal is to build on this foundation of excellence, ensuring that each child feels supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their fullest potential. Together, we will empower our students to grow spiritually, academically, socially, and emotionally.

Earlier this week, I thoroughly enjoyed visiting all the children in their classrooms. It was wonderful having the opportunity to read each class a story and answer any burning questions. The most popular ones were about my favourite AFL team (Collingwood), my pet bird (Coco) and favourite subjects at school (English and Sport). In the coming months, I look forward to getting to know each of you better - whether that’s through one-on-one conversations, school events, or daily interactions at the gate. Open communication between home and school is essential, and I encourage you to reach out to me with any questions, concerns, or ideas you may have. Later this term I will organise a ‘Community Conversation’ inviting parents to join me for a chat about what makes St Bernard’s a great school and ideas for improvements.

As we embark on this exciting journey together, I promise to work tirelessly to provide a safe and inclusive learning environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive. I’m thrilled to be part of such a vibrant school community, and I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together.

Mini Mission Fete - Friday 10 October

This week there has been a buzz of excitement around the school, with students looking forward to the Mission Fete this Friday. Students are encouraged to bring a small amount of money and a bag to carry their purchases. I am looking forward to experiencing my first St Bernard’s mini Mission Fete. All money raised will support the Catholic Mission and Opening the Doors Foundation.

Grade 5/6 Camp

I wish all the best to the Grade 5/6 students attending camp next Tuesday 14th to Thursday 16th October. There are many excited campers who are looking forward to spending time with their classmates and teachers in Phillip Island. A big thank you to the teachers who are attending the camp, spending time away from their loved ones, to provide this valuable learning experience for our students. A reminder that all camp payments need to be made by this Friday.

Synthetic grass

During the school holidays, new synthetic grass was laid near the Prep to 2 playground. After the turf has settled, there will be game images added. A huge thank you to all in the community for their support for helping to raise money for this project. It has been wonderful watching our youngest students enjoying playing in this area.

Hats

A reminder that as a SunSmart school we have a sun protection policy that meets the Cancer Council of Victoria criteria. Therefore all students must wear a hat when outside during Terms 4 and 1. Parents are also encouraged to apply sunscreen to their children before school and to supply sunscreen for use throughout the day. Hats may be purchased from Academy Uniforms or at the office.

Grandparents Day Celebration - Friday 24 October

8.45 - 10.30am (8.45 - 9.30am classroom/9.30 - 10.30am morning tea in the hall).

Grandparents and special older people in our students' lives are invited to our Grandparents Morning, spending some time in classrooms and then joining us for morning tea on Friday 24th October. Invitations will be sent home this week and for catering purposes, we require RSVP's by Monday 20th October, please be sure to extend the invitation to your families. I am looking forward to meeting grandparents in our community.

Bunnings BBQ - Saturday 25th October

A reminder that we have our upcoming Bunnings BBQ at Gaffney Street, Coburg.

Please let your family and friends know and pop on down to Bunnings to grab a delicious sizzling sausage and support our community fundraiser.

Please see the BPC page for a link to sign up to volunteer for a shift on the day.

School Closure Day - Monday 3rd November

The next School Closure Day is on Monday 3rd November. There is no school for students on this day. OSHC will be available if the minimum numbers are met. Bookings are essential. Tuesday 4th November is Melbourne Cup Day as this is a public holiday the OSHC will not be open on this day.

Today an introduction letter will be going home with the eldest student in each family. Please collect it from your child's bag. A copy is attached for your reference.

Warm regards,

Julie Di Noto

Principal

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