Dear Parents and Friends,

Thank You

I can’t believe that we are at the end of another year of school at St. Christopher’s. It has been an incredibly busy year and every week has been full of learning and special events. Some occasions have required your support and so many of you have been incredibly generous. To everyone who has been involved in providing that support to our school, we cannot thank you enough. I would like to take this opportunity to also thank and congratulate all the staff at St Christopher’s for their dedication, support and the amazing work they’ve done throughout the year. A special thanks to Mrs Sandra Incerti and Mrs Candace Dulvin for the contribution they have made to the St. Christopher’s community over a long period of time. We wish them all the best as they move to the next adventure in their lives.

Congratulations to all of our wonderful students who have been a pleasure to teach and have at our school. Finally, to all our families who will be moving on from St Christopher’s, we thank you for your contribution and involvement in St Christopher’s and wish you well for the future.

Year 6 Graduation

On Tuesday 10 December, the Year 6 students took part in their graduation ceremony. This consisted of a number of speeches and awards. The highlight was the individual speeches presented by each of the students. This included their reflections and memories of their time at St. Christopher's. Everyone present was very proud of the students and the fine young men and women they have become. They have been a special group and wonderful leaders throughout 2024 and we wish them all the best for the future.

Year 6 Day Out

Last Wednesday myself and Mrs De Filippis accompanied the Year 6 students to Luna Park for a day of fun and celebration. As part of their final week of primary school, these students participate in a number of special activities.

2025

You would be aware that I will be taking long service leave throughout 2025. I will be using this opportunity to spend more time with my family, to travel and rest.

Mr Patrick Green has been appointed Acting Principal for 2025. The current school leadership team will remain unchanged. Patrick Green is a very experienced leader and educator. He has been Principal of Catholic schools in the Eastern Region for a number of years. Since 2023 he has been an Education Officer in the School Effectiveness team for Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS). I have every confidence that Patrick and the leadership team will maintain the high standard of learning and teaching, wellbeing, support and care for the school community until my return in 2026. I am sure that you will welcome Patrick to our school community.

LOTE 2025

Following the retirement of Sandra Incerti, our IItalian teacher for the last 14 years, all students will learn Chinese Mandarin in 2025. We welcome Laura Wang to St. Christopher's teaching staff and look forward to an exciting opportunity for our students.

Student Testing

Please note that next year students will come in to school during the first few days only at a selected testing appointment time. Please refer to the 'Student Testing January 2025' page for further details. Students in Years 5/6 and Prep/Foundation will all return to school on Friday 31 January. Students in Years 1-4 will all return to school on Monday 3 February.

Harry Bennett Awards

The Harry Bennett awards are presented to one child from each class in recognition of their personal achievements during the year. This does not have to be awarded for academic achievement and it does not have to be a student that is necessarily a high achiever. It will be a student that has worked hard and made significant progress in a particular area.

These awards are presented each year in memory of Harry Bennett who sadly passed away in 2004. Harry is the beloved son of Russell and Bronwyn Bennett, and brother to Michael and one of our past students William. A big thanks to the Bennett family for again presenting and sponsoring these awards.

2024 Winners
Prep A	Charlie Yang
1/2 A	Samara Rajasooriar
1/2B	Alexander Lund (overall winner)
3/4A	Alvin Tajeu
3/4B	Zihan Wo
5/6A	Blake Wilson

Sporting Attitude Award

Charlotte Archibald was selected by our Physical Education teacher, Natalie Banks, to receive a Sporting Attitude award from the Glen Waverley Rotary Club. Charlotte enjoys approaching all types of sports with an openness to learn and try her hardest, never giving up and being happy with her efforts. She he is eager to participate, learn and encourages others to share her enjoyment. Well done Charlotte.

Christmas Party

It was great to see so many families at the School Christmas Party last Friday. Students enjoyed a jumping castle, BBQ, ice-cream van and a visit from Santa who arrived on the Vermont Fire Rescue truck. Thanks to all involved in organising and assisting with this event. This helped make the end of the school year special for our students.

I hope everyone has a safe and blessed Christmas. Enjoy the festive season with your family and friends. Take Care.

Shane Davoren

Student Wellbeing

Please read the attached regarding supporting students over the holidays.