Principal's Update

Dear families,

As we approach the end of Term 2, I would like to congratulate our students, staff and families on what has been a wonderful and action-packed term. There has been so much to celebrate and be proud of across our school community.

Reading through student reports over the past month has highlighted just how much our students have learned and grown. It has been particularly rewarding to read about the progress of many of our younger students and to see the remarkable learning, confidence and personal development that has occurred throughout the semester.

A reminder that students will finish at 1.00pm this Friday. We are also looking forward to celebrating the FIFA World Cup with a themed casual clothes day. Students are invited to wear casual clothes or support their favourite team in return for a gold coin donation, with all proceeds supporting St Vincent de Paul Society, Ascot Vale.

World Cup Fever: One thing has been crystal clear over the past fortnight – our school has been completely gripped by World Cup fever! It has been wonderful to hear conversations about the Socceroos and favourite international teams, and to see students brought together through their shared excitement for the tournament. We have opened the Multi-Purpose Room during selected lunchtimes so students can watch matches together, creating a fantastic atmosphere across the school.

One highlight was witnessing students celebrate a Lionel Messi hat-trick during a live screening. Another standout moment was the incredible LEGO World Cup Trophy created by Michael in Year 6. Michael's creativity and attention to detail certainly impressed many of us.

Semester 1 Reports: Student reports will be sent home this week. These reports provide an important snapshot of each student's learning progress and help establish clear goals for the second half of the year.

As reports are shared with families this week, I encourage parents to look beyond the final grades and recognise the many different ways success can be measured. For some students, success is reflected in strong achievement and excellent results. For others, it is seen in the growth they have made since the beginning of the year. A student who has worked hard to improve, overcome challenges or build confidence in their learning has every reason to feel proud of their progress.

It is important that we celebrate both achievement and improvement. Every child is on their own learning journey, and growth over time is something that deserves recognition.

Reports provide valuable information about academic progress, but they cannot capture everything that makes our students successful learners and positive members of our community. Throughout each day, our students demonstrate determination, resilience, kindness, curiosity and a willingness to take on new challenges. These qualities are equally important and play a significant role in helping young people thrive both at school and beyond.

I encourage all families to take time to discuss reports with their children and celebrate the progress they have made throughout Semester 1. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child's learning, please reach out to their classroom teacher. Working together in partnership gives our children the best possible opportunity to succeed.

Police Visit: Last week we welcomed members of Victoria Police to speak with our Year 5 and 6 students about staying safe and making positive choices. Topics included online safety, responsible use of e-bikes and scooters, and understanding the risks associated with knife crime. The session was informative, engaging and reinforced the important partnership between schools, families and the wider community in supporting young people to make safe and responsible decisions.

Official Opening and Blessing of the McAuley Building: We are eagerly anticipating Tuesday's Official Opening and Blessing of our new McAuley Building. We are honoured to welcome a number of distinguished guests, including local Member for Footscray Katie Hall MP and representatives from Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools. This occasion provides an opportunity to reflect on what has been a significant achievement for our school community and to formally acknowledge a milestone that will benefit generations of St Margaret's students to come.

Thank You to Our Pre-Service Teachers: Throughout the term we have been fortunate to host a number of outstanding pre-service teachers who have supported student learning while continuing their university studies. We thank Ms Chandler (3B), Ms Mary (1A), Mr Ashley (PC), Mr Andreas (2A) and Ms Chiara (1C) for their contributions to our school community. We wish them every success as they continue their journey into the teaching profession. 

We wish Ms Chandler, in particular, all the best as she has just completed her final teaching placement and will commencing her teaching career in the coming months. Ms Chandler has been with us all term and will be missed by all. Good luck and all the best in the future! 

Future of St Margaret's Church: Please see the attached bulletin from St Mary's Parish containing an update from Father Desmond regarding the future of St Margaret's Church.

While this news has been anticipated for some time, it will undoubtedly be difficult for many members of our community. St Margaret's Church has played a central role in the life of our school for generations. The opportunity to gather as a community for weekly Mass has been a treasured part of our Catholic identity and tradition.

As we reflect on this news, we remain grateful for the important role the church has played in the spiritual life of our school and parish community. Father Desmond has invited community feedback via: feedback.stmargarets@gmail.com.

Celebrating Learning: Over the past two weeks I have been delighted by the number of students sent to my office to share outstanding examples of learning and achievement.

Whether it has been exceptional effort, academic success, creativity or personal growth, these moments of celebration are what school life is all about. Congratulations to all of our students who have been recognised for their hard work and commitment to learning.

School Holiday Wishes: As Term 2 comes to a close, I would like to thank our students, staff and families for their continued support and partnership throughout the semester.

I wish everyone a safe, restful and well-deserved holiday break. I hope you enjoy spending quality time with family and friends and return refreshed and ready for another exciting term of learning in Term 3.

Have a wonderful break and...

GO SOCCEROOS!

John