Principal's News

Last week, Year 3 and 5 students sat NAPLAN tests which cover literacy and numeracy skills. Our students can take pride in their hard work, and teachers and parents can celebrate the positive way they approached these tests. Holy Rosary was one of many schools audited during the tests and we were acknowledged for our fidelity to the testing process. I thank Maria for her oversight of the organisational aspects of the program, the teachers for their preparation and supervision of students, and Chisachi who takes care of the technical requirements.

Graduate Mass

On Friday I had the honour of attending the Graduate Commissioning Mass celebrated by Archbishop Peter Commensoli. The ceremony honoured our recently graduated teachers, including Gemma, our Year 1/2 teacher. The Archbishop emphasised the missionary aspect of teaching, highlighting the responsibility educators carry in fostering knowledge, values, and character. He recognised that the teaching role extends well beyond academics—teachers are mentors, role models, and builders of society; affirming that teaching is not just a job but a calling to serve and uplift others. We are delighted to have Gemma at Holy Rosary and wish her every success and happiness in her teaching career.

Athletics Carnival

Our athletics carnival is fast approaching and there’s significant work happening in the background. Colm has been preparing students during PE lessons and Vicky has been planning the day’s events in Andrea’s absence. We thank Kiao for sharing his expertise with students last week and again this week, as they prepare for events. Our Year 6 house leaders have also been working on their team chants, under Allison’s guidance, ready to share with the rest of the school.

We have some students from Simonds and Academy Colleges who will assist with events but we also require some further adult assistance. If you are able to support even just for an hour, this will be greatly appreciated. Please let Vicky know via email vsmith@hrkensington.catholic.edu.au

We welcome all families to join us for this special day on our school calendar. Further organisational details will be shared in next week’s newsletter.

School Crossing

The children's crossing outside our school is in the process of becoming a zebra crossing. This change aims to improve pedestrian safety. Andrew will continue to work as our crossing supervisor each morning and afternoon but at all other times the zebra crossing provides clear visibility for drivers, signaling that pedestrians have the right of way when crossing the road. 

We encourage everyone to be mindful of these changes and to continue prioritising safety for all road users.

Did you know…

• If you are within 20 metres of a pedestrian crossing you are legally required to cross at a crossing?
• When travelling towards a children's crossing, you must drive at a speed so that you can stop safely? There is a 40km restriction in Kensington.
• you must stop if a pedestrian is on or is about to step on the crossing, even if there is no crossing supervisor? 
• you must stop if a hand held stop sign is displayed at the crossing?

And as a final point, please help us keep our students and families safe by not doing u turns in front of our school.

Change in Dates 

Please note the change in our next Student Free Day. We initially advised our next Student Free Day would be 23 May. Unfortunately, the facilitator has advised that she is unavailable and we need to move this date to Tuesday 27 May.

Swimming Champs 

Congratulations to Mali and Nino who travelled to Oak Park to represent Holy Rosary at the Western Regional Competition. Nino came 5th in his freestyle heat.

Mali came 4th in breaststroke, and 1st in backstroke. She's now qualified for the Western Metro Region Finals in backstroke.

Our Child Safety Policy

As parents and educators, ensuring the safety and well-being of children is our top priority. Our child-safe policies serve as a framework to promote a safe and nurturing environment for our students, allowing them to grow, explore, and learn in a positive and respectful environment. Primary school children are particularly vulnerable, as they are still learning how to navigate the world around them. Establishing clear expectations for behaviour, from adults and children, fosters an atmosphere of trust. Students are more likely to feel safe, supported, and encouraged to engage in their learning when they know their physical and emotional well-being is a priority. A positive school culture promotes inclusivity and respect for all and reduces instances of bullying, exclusion, and harassment. 

https://www.hrkensington.catholic.edu.au/our-school/macs-policy-suite/

Playground Update

Students may have reported to you that the playground has been looking a little different this week. We are delighted to see the progress so far, with a start to the new sandpit and seated area. There is still plenty of work to be done, but  it is very exciting to see the improvements so far!

BBQ at the Athletics Day Carnival

Our parents are running a BBQ at the Athletics Day Carnival on Wednesday 26 March. 

Lots of goodies to purchase,  cash or card accepted. 

If you wish to volunteer to assist at the BBQ stall, please call Lucy on 0432 512 652.

Have a wonderful week

Christine