Pentecost Sunday: People coming together

Sunday week ago we celebrated Pentecost within the Catholic Church. On this day, we celebrate the disciples going out to the community and spreading the teachings of Jesus. Eventually, these teachings have made it to Doveton, and now we share it with people who come from around the world and speak many languages.

It is actually something that is kind of incredible when you stop to think about it. What is important, is these disciples were sent out to all corners to spread the message to all people. Today, our Pope reminds us that whilst spreading the message, we also need to listen. To be in true dialogue with one another.

On Sunday at my Parish, we had people from different faith backgrounds join our mass. It really is inspiring when people from different backgrounds come together and celebrate life together.

There is a lot of sadness and anger in the world, but there is also joy. I am privileged to work within a school to see it everyday, kids who see nothing other than another human being and celebrating life. 2000 years later, the fact these disciples went out means we get to do that and share the teachings of Jesus today.

Fees

Hello families, school fee letters have been sent home. We appreciate all the fees that have been paid, and we have increased our collection rate incredibly in 12 months. For this, I thank you all. If you need any assistance, we are here to help. Please come and talk to me. I understand the challenges, and want to support you with a confidential conversation.

New Staff Members

This week, we welcome Mia Wilkinson and Pearl Perera to our team. These two quality people have been supporting students on a casual basis, but to ensure our students get the consistency they need, we have been fortunate to gain their skills on a more permanent basis. Welcome Mia and Pearl.

School Closure

As has been advertised for some time, our school will be closed Friday week, the 7th of June for a staff Professional Learning Day. Our school will be closed on the Monday 10th of June for the King’s Birthday. We have tagged all of our closure days to scheduled public holidays to assist families, and whilst we know the challenge they create, they are an important part of ensuring our teachers can effectively support students. Our focus on the Friday will be supporting students through Anxiety, which our students identified through surveys as a significant challenge they are facing.

Before and After School Care

Thanks to all those families who completed the survey. Though we had quite significant interest, the company we have been working with have not been able to provide us with confirmation of this happening. I can assure you all that I have made it my priority to make this happen. It is a critical part of our ability to support our families. I am working with our head office to ensure that we will be able to provide this service, so please, stay tuned. If anyone would like to speak to me about it, but all means, come and chat.

Enrolments

If you know of anyone who starts Prep next year in the local area, please encourage them to come for a tour of the school.

Updating Records

We have had a few times recently that we have tried to call parents and got a disconnected line. Please ensure that you call the office if you have moved homes or changed phone numbers. This is the most important thing you can do to ensure your child is safe.

Clubs Back In Gear

Our staff now have all our clubs up and running. We have a garden club, dance club, chess club and art club. Last week, Mrs Crist held a netball group and this week, we will have a choir starting. These are critical elements of supporting our students' talents and enhancing their wellbeing. We look forward to sharing the talents within these groups.

Kitchen Garden Program