Saint Francis Xavier - Principal's Report

Term 2 - Week 2

Dear Parents and Friends of St Francis Xavier,

How amazing has the weather been this week! We certainly have been treated to two spectacular weeks to commence Term Two.

ANZAC Day

Last Friday, our school community gathered to mark ANZAC Day, a significant occasion to remember and honour the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who served our country. Throughout the morning, each classroom took part in a special ANZAC service, providing students with time to reflect on the enduring values of courage, mateship, and resilience that continue to shape our nation. Through prayer and quiet reflection, we recognised the lasting impact of the ANZAC spirit and its importance in today’s world, where peace, compassion, and unity remain essential. I extend my sincere thanks to Ms Kim and our Grade 5/6 leaders for leading the service with such respect and dignity.

Later that afternoon, our Grade 5/6 students represented St Francis Xavier Primary School with pride at the Frankston community ANZAC Day service held at Beauty Park. Joining veterans, service personnel, and members of the broader community, our students laid a wreath on behalf of the school as a gesture of remembrance. This experience provided a valuable opportunity for students to connect with this important tradition, strengthening their understanding of our history and their appreciation for those who have given so much. Lest we forget.

Child Safety at S.F.X

Child safety remains at the heart of everything we do as a school community. The Child Safe Standards provide a clear framework to ensure that all children and young people are protected, respected, and empowered in our care. It is essential that schools not only understand these standards, but actively prioritise and embed each one into daily practice. By doing so, we create an environment where students feel safe, valued, and confident to express themselves, knowing their wellbeing is our highest priority.

In 2026, we are strengthening this commitment through our “11 Standards in 11 Months” strategy. This approach ensures that each of the 11 Child Safe Standards is given dedicated attention and focus across the year, allowing staff, students, and the wider community to develop a deep and shared understanding of what each standard looks like in practice. By intentionally highlighting one standard at a time, we are building a consistent, whole-school approach to child safety that is both proactive and sustainable.

Our current focus is Child Safety Standard 3, which centres on empowering children and young people. This standard emphasises the importance of ensuring students understand their rights, are encouraged to participate in decisions that affect them, and feel confident that their voices are heard and taken seriously. When students are genuinely included in decision-making processes, it not only strengthens their sense of belonging, but also plays a critical role in safeguarding their wellbeing.

To support this work, our Mental Health in Primary Schools Leader, Ms Melissa, is working closely with classroom teachers to ensure that student voice is a visible and meaningful focus in every learning space. Through intentional practices and classroom strategies, we are creating opportunities for students to share their perspectives, contribute to decisions, and develop the confidence to advocate for themselves and others. This collective effort reinforces our commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful school environment for all.

School Closure Days - Term 2 + 3

Could I ask all families to put the following dates in your diaries as there will be no students at school on these days.

Term 2

Friday 15th May (Staff Professional Learning - Religious Education focus)
Tuesday 9th June (The Tuesday after the King's Birthday Public Holiday)

Term 3
Monday 13th July (Staff Professional Learning - Child Safety focus)
Friday 7th August (Staff Professional Learning - Explicit Instruction in the classroom focus)

Grade 5/6 School Camp

Next week, our Grade 5/6 students are excited to be heading to Camp Rumbug in Foster for their two night camp. They will depart on Wednesday morning and arrive back on Friday afternoon. We look forward to sharing lots of photos through our school Facebook page, and there will be even more photos to share in our next newsletter!

Thank you to Ms Erin, Ms Lisa, Mr Will, Ms Renee and Ms Ash for giving up their time next week to be at camp with our students.

Prep Enrolments 2027

Now is the time to enrol your four or five year old to start Prep at St Francis Xavier in 2027. If you know someone who is looking for a school for their child, why not suggest St Francis Xavier as a great school to consider? I am always happy to take prospective families on a personal school tour. Digital Enrolment forms can be found on the school website.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Steve Peart

School Principal

Community

COMMUNITY NOTICES

Do you have a child starting school in 2027 or even 2028?

St Francis Xavier Parish