Mrs Ryan's Fortnightly Reflections

We have all arrived home safely! Over the past fortnight, our Year 5 and 6 learners have been busy and exceptionally well behaved while attending camps. We recognise and celebrate the experience, resilience, and independence this allows our learners to develop while away from home. We also acknowledge that for some, this is their first and a long time away from home. I thank all families for entrusting the staff of St Mary’s to care for your children and for allowing us to get to know and see them in a different light. The staff who attended camp truly enjoyed the experience and proudly shared how well behaved and enjoyable the children were. 

St Mary’s is nearing the end of its enrolment phase, which has been hugely successful. While enrolment is an ongoing part of school life, the primary marketing and engagement efforts conclude at the end of term two. We have met with some wonderful new and existing families who we look forward to partnering with in the coming years for their children’s education. It is always an affirming experience to seek feedback and hear why families chose St Mary’s. Many of the shared reasons relate to our longevity and ability to maintain a high and valued reputation within the community, the recognition of the holistic education we provide, and the clear and explicit learning and teaching programs we offer. As a school, we are eager to welcome our new Foundation learners and families often, to ensure they feel valued and connected members of our community. 

Recently, we have received community concerns regarding the expected practice of end-of-day bus travellers. All St Mary’s bus travellers are expected to leave from St Mary’s if using transport to go home. Learners are not to walk to the college and use the college as the first pick-up point. As a school, we are supervising your child according to your intended travel method, and if learners choose to walk, we cannot ensure their safety. Can families please speak with their children and reiterate that we board all buses initially from the St Mary’s bus zone? Thank you for your support in this matter. 

The weather is starting to become cooler, and we are seeing some variations in the uniform. I kindly ask that families do not create new uniform options and instead adhere to the expectation that we wear what is essentially St Mary’s uniform. St Mary’s has a wide range of uniform options, all of which are available at Hip Pocket. We work closely with Hip Pocket, our uniform provider, to ensure we meet families’ needs. Please ensure that your purchases are made through Hip Pocket and conform to St Mary’s winter uniform requirements. 

Next week, on Friday 5th June, the school will be closed, and learners are not to attend. St Mary’s, in line with CESL, will be participating in professional learning regarding student wellbeing and safeguarding. I thank all families for making alternative arrangements for this day. This day will lead into the King’s birthday weekend, during which I hope all families enjoy a few days of rest and a break from the school routine. 

Have a lovely weekend!  

In faith, trust and love.  

Jasmine Ryan  

Principal