Principal's Welcome back Message - 2026
Dear Parents,
I would like to warmly welcome you all to the 2026 school year. I hope our families have enjoyed a restful summer holiday and are ready for the excitement of another year of learning.
Next week, Tuesday 27th January, is the St. Patrick's staff first day back and will be a student-free day.
The first day of school for Year 1 to Year 6 students is Wednesday 28th January. The School gates will open at 8:30am, and students will be directed to go straight to their classrooms to unpack their bags and to settle in for their first day of school for 2026. There will not be an assembly on this day.
During the first week of school, students will participate in a range of student wellbeing activities to support a smooth transition and help them become accustomed to their new class environments. All students will need to wear their school sports uniform on Friday 30th January as we will be once again participating in the Kaboom Kids Sports session.
Our first assembly for the year will be Friday 30th January @ 2:50pm in the school hall where the Year 6 Students will recieve their leadership badges. All are invited to attend.
We also extend a very warm welcome to our new students across all year levels, including our Prep students and families.
The Prep start-of-year timeline is outlined below.
Prep 2026 – School Year Commencement Dates
- Wednesday 28 January Individual student testing with class teacher (No school for Prep students)
- Thursday 29 January Individual student testing with class teacher (No school for Prep students)
- Friday 30 January Individual student testing with class teacher (No school for Prep students)
- Monday 2 February Individual student testing with class teacher (No school for Prep students)
- Tuesday 3 February First day of school for Prep 2026 students (1:00pm finish)
- Wednesday 4 February Prep students commence full-time attendance
The start of year Mass is on Tuesday 3rd February at 9:15am in the St. Patrick's Church. The Prep Students will not be attending this mass as it is their first day of school.
As we begin the year, we are very much looking forward to the many learning opportunities, celebrations, faith experiences, and community events that 2026 will bring. Throughout the year, students will be encouraged to grow academically, socially, and spiritually, while being supported to build positive relationships and a strong sense of belonging within our school community.
We value the strong partnership we share with our families and look forward to working closely with you as we support each child’s learning journey. We are excited for the year ahead and all that we will achieve together.
Kind regards,
Pat Berlingeri
Principal
St. Patrick's School Mentone