Message from the Principal

Dear Parents and Carers,

All staff and students have enjoyed a busy start to Term 4. Already we are at the end of Week 2 and looking forward to the weeks ahead as we count down to the end of the school year.

During Weeks 3 and 4, students in Yr 1 - Yr 6 will undertake the annual Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT) in Reading and Mathematics. Students across the Diocese undertake this testing. The annual administering of the tests provides one of many tools that enables staff to monitor the growth in student learning over the past twelve months in both Reading and Mathematics. Tests are online and will be administered in class groupings. The students are familiar with the online platform. 

On Friday, October 27 we will begin the transition program for our 2024 Kindergarten class. We look forward to welcoming the children to their first day at 'Big School'. Transition is always an exciting time, although a little stressful for first time parents and carers. The children will enjoy a wonderful morning of activities and meet their big school buddies. No doubt, children who have siblings may make the journey to big school on the bus. Friday will be a very special day at St Michael's.

On Friday afternoon, the P&F will host the St Michael's Colour Run. All children will walk to the showground and have lots of fun being soaked and coloured. We are all looking forward to a wonderful, fun-filled afternoon.

During the week, our Inclusion Teacher Mrs Amanda McNair attended two days of professional learning in Armidale. We are very blessed to have Amanda working in this space, as she has extensive experience and widespread knowledge. Amanda's hard work, in consultation with classroom teachers and external providers, ensures that all our students are demonstrating growth in learning regardless of ability. Amanda is a vital part of what we do at St Michael's and her dedication to all our students is very much appreciated. Last week, Miss Jacquelene Cronin attended the National Religious Education Symposium in Dubbo. Jacqui has extensive experience in Religious Education and is a fantastic asset for both students and staff at  St Michael's. 

Congratulations to Miss Isabella Rasche and Mrs Cathy Shepherd who have both been chosen to be team managers for Armidale teams to represent at Polding trials next year. Cathy will manage the boys' Hockey and Isabella will manage the girls' Touch Football. Both teachers will attend the Diocesan trials in Tamworth and then take the Diocesan team to Polding selections. Well done ladies.

Enjoy and fabulous weekend,

Bronwyn