Principal's News

Dear Parents and Carers,

The term is gathering pace, and teachers are assessing students in preparation for their Semester 2 reports. Please ensure your child arrives at school on time each day, as these assessments take place during the morning session.

All Souls’ Prayer Service

On Monday 2 November, we commemorated All Souls’ Day with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in our church, followed by our All Souls’ procession. This year, we introduced remembrance ribbons, giving families an opportunity to write the names of loved ones they wished to remember in prayer.

Now in its fourth year, this prayer service provides a meaningful opportunity for families to come together in faith, remembrance and hope. We were also delighted to welcome Mrs Janine Hannigan back for the evening. Janine established this tradition at SFX, and her legacy was evident in the prayerful spirit of Monday’s gathering. Thank you Mr Criniti and Ms Cindy for their organisation of the event.   

Road Safety Week

Last week, we celebrated Road Safety Week, with approximately 40% of our school community walking safely to school together. It was wonderful to see so many families join the walk from Peace Park to SFX. Thank you to our local police for supporting this initiative and helping our families arrive safely. Thank you to Mr Blasonato, Mrs El-Azzi and Mrs Ayoub for organising the event.   

International Eucharistic Congress 2028

Last Thursday, our Year 4 ambassadors attended a Mass celebrated by Bishop Richard Umbers as part of the preparations for the International Eucharistic Congress in Sydney in 2028.

This is an exciting occasion for our Archdiocese, with the Holy Father expected to attend. We look forward to opportunities for our school community to participate in the preparations and deepen our understanding of the Eucharist.   

World Teachers’ Day

On Monday, we celebrated World Teachers’ Day. At our assembly, I shared how I had changed my planned speech after attending Mass on Sunday and hearing the Gospel of the Beatitudes.

As I listened, I was struck by how deeply the virtues expressed in the Beatitudes are reflected in the work of our teachers: their compassion, patience, humility and commitment to helping every child flourish. These qualities are evident each day in the care and encouragement they offer our students.

Thank you to the many parents who sent gifts, treats and messages of appreciation. Your thoughtfulness was greatly appreciated by our staff.

Christmas at the Cathedral

Our school choir has been invited to perform at Christmas at the Cathedral on Monday 21 December. This is a wonderful honour for SFX and an opportunity for our children to share their talents with the wider community.

Although the school year will have finished, I warmly invite all families to join us at St Mary’s Cathedral to support our choir and celebrate the joy of Christmas together. Further details will follow.   https://christmasatthecathedral.org.au/

Kindergarten Enrolments for 2028

If you are planning for your child to begin Kindergarten at St Francis Xavier in 2028, please complete the online enrolment application. We have already received 25 applications for that year and encourage families to apply early.

Magis 2033

Last week, we welcomed our Kindergarten 2027 parents to our annual information session. As a leadership team, we shared the history of SFX, our Ursuline heritage, and our mission, vision, values and credo.

I also introduced families to Magis 2033, Sydney Catholic Schools’ system strategy, and highlighted the connections between its mission, vision and values and those of SFX. Our shared commitment to growth in faith, excellence in learning and service to others provides a strong foundation for our work together.

Please follow the accompanying link to learn more about Magis 2033. https://magis2033.syd.catholic.edu.au/

Enjoy the weekend

Brian Anderson 

Principal