From the Principal
This year, Project Compassion brings you the stories of three resilient women from three different corners of the world. They are facing vastly different challenges, but are all united by one dream: to create a better tomorrow for all future generations.
Meet Ronita from the Philippines. Ronita lives with her husband and two children in a barangay (local district) in Quezon City, which is situated in Metro Manila in the Philippines. She went back to school to finish her education so that she could earn income to support her children.
Meet Leaia from Samoa. Not having access to a reliable source of clean water was very difficult for Leaia and her family. But, with the support of Caritas Australia, a water tank was installed at their home, improving their health and living conditions.
Meet Memory from Malawi. Memory, the eldest daughter from a rural Malawian family, trained to become a carpenter and is now a trailblazer for future generations of women in her village.
Throughout Project Compassion, you will get to know the stories of Ronita, Leaia and Memory. Journey with them as they forge a path to a brighter future for all generations.
Watch a short film: Introduction to Project Compassion (Primary school version) or Introduction to Project Compassion (General)
Please donate to Project Compassion.
You can donate through Project Compassion donation boxes at school, online by visiting caritas.org.au/project-compassion or by calling 1800 024 413.
Photo: Richard Wainwright/Caritas Australia
Dear families,
Yesterday marked the beginning of our Lenten journey. We left Mass with traces of ashes on our foreheads and were reminded of the solemnity of this time in the liturgical calendar. Over the next forty days, we will encounter challenges and temptations, yet our determination to approach Easter with renewed hearts will guide us along the way.
In our classrooms, the children will delve into lessons on physical and spiritual preparation for Easter. They will learn that our Lenten journey requires deliberate effort; without preparation, we cannot fully embrace the joy of Easter's culmination. This year, our focus for Project Compassion is "For All Future Generations," prompting reflection on our abundance amidst global disparities. We are called to explore ways to support others, ensuring flourishing lives for all.
Drummo Social Circle
This week we held the first Drummo Social Circle meeting for the year. The energy and passion for supporting our school community continues to be strong, and we're excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. It was great to see some new faces too. Please remember that all families are always welcome to come along.
At the meeting, we delved into various ways we can come together to enhance the student experience and foster a sense of belonging. Among the topics discussed were several upcoming events and projects that we're eager to involve you in:
1. 100 Year Celebration Ball Planning: St Patrick's is celebrating a significant milestone - our 100th year at Drummond Street! To commemorate this historic occasion, we're planning a ball. We're seeking volunteers to join a working party to help plan and organise this event. Your creativity and input will be invaluable in making this celebration a resounding success.
2. Potential 100 Years Fete Committee: In addition to the Ball, we're considering hosting a Fete to mark our centenary. This event would be a fantastic opportunity to showcase the vibrant spirit of our school and engage the wider community. If you're passionate about event planning and community outreach, we'd love to have you on board to explore the possibilities and make this idea a reality.
3. Parent Helpers for School Projects: Our school thrives on the support of dedicated parents and friends like you. Throughout the year, there will be various small projects and initiatives where we could use extra hands. Whether it's assisting with classroom activities, beautifying the school grounds, or lending a hand during special events, your involvement makes a significant difference in enriching the educational experience for our students. We're particularly keen to reinstate our Healthy Living gardens etc. and would love some help in this area.
If any of these opportunities resonate with you and you're interested in being part of the planning and execution, we invite you to reach out to Julia or Michelle at the school office. Your enthusiasm, skills, and commitment are invaluable assets as we work together to create memorable experiences and nurture a strong sense of community at St Patrick's.
Family Connections Meetings
Thank you for coming along to our first Family Connections meetings at St Patrick's. There has been overwhelming positive feedback from the sessions. As I've followed up with our teachers this week, there has been a great appreciation expressed for the valuable insights you've shared to support your children at our school.
2025 Foundation Enrolments
If you are seeking a Foundation enrolment for a child commencing school in 2025, please see the below flyer. I encourage all families to book in for a tour prior to the close of the expressions on interest period listed. Expressions of interest are now open.
Building Project
It's to a point now that there's very little left to write about in regards to the long standing building project - how amazing! The final classrooms are essentially complete, next week we will see the installation of external handrails and, most likely, the removal of the temporary fencing....which will mean no more rotating playground/turf rosters. All in all, we're expecting full occupancy within the fortnight.
Have a happy and safe week ahead.
Kind regards,
Ben Shields