Principal Reflections
Spirit on Country- Learning Together, Then, Now and Always.
Organised by Armidale Catholic Schools, this conference offered a unique opportunity for educators to enhance their professional skills, improve educational outcomes, and promote reconciliation through a deeper understanding of culture.
During our time at the conference we were able to delve into the impact of the NSW Curriculum Reform, which explicitly includes Aboriginal Histories across all syllabuses. The 3 day conference also allowed attendees to experience the cultural richness of Aboriginal connections to the land, and emphasise the spiritual, educational, cultural, and economic significance for Aboriginal people.
The Spirit on Country Conference was a valuable opportunity to contribute to the reconciliation process by strengthening professional networks, sharing insights, collaborating, and celebrating the achievements of colleagues. Thank you to the wonderful team at Armidale Catholic Schools for coordinating such a fantastic event.
I am very proud of our students that performed at the Conference today: Ivy Allan, Natalia Allan-Saunders, Kaycee Bett, Shyloh Craig, Addison Dalton, Baylen Etheridge, Kaleb Etheridge, Reef Fernando, Isaac Heywood, Wyatt Jackson, Sunny Jackson, Ruby Krog, Anayah Morris, Nevaeh Munro, Rhiannon O'Leary, Darcie Smith, Kiarnee Smith & Ella Wall. Your storytelling through dance was so great and I commend you all for being outstanding representatives today. Thank you and congratulations.
I would also like to thank our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander team Sal Clarke, Amanda Gwalter, Brittany Cloake & Jarrod Peachey for their commitment to sharing, collaborating and celebrating the Aboriginal and Torres Strait culture in our school and beyond. I am so very proud of you all.
Kindergarten Transition
We would like to remind you that the Kinder Orientation Program for 2025 will recommence this Friday 25th October. We are excited to welcome you and your children back as we continue this important transition. Thank you for your active participation in the parent sessions so far. Your engagement is greatly appreciated and we look forward to continuing to work together to ensure that your child has a successful transition to school.
World Teachers' Day
This Friday 25th October is World Teachers' Day – we would love your children to help us celebrate. If they would like to write a small note, make a card or share a little bit of joy with their teacher – you will make their day tomorrow! We would like to thank in advance the P&F Committee for providing a delicious morning tea for all of our wonderful teachers.
2025 Start dates
In 2025, Armidale Catholic Schools start and finish dates will be as follows:
Please note: In 2025, these dates will differ from those of NSW DET. Armidale Catholic Schools will start a day earlier at the beginning of the year and finish a day earlier at the end of the year.
Term 1
Eastern
Thursday 30th and Friday 31st January - Staff Development Days
Monday 3rd February - Yr 1-6 students commence
Monday 10th February - Kindergarten students commence
Term 1 finishes Friday 11th April
Term 2
Monday 28th April to Friday 4th July
Term 3
Monday 21st July - Staff Development Day - Curriculum
Monday 21st July to Friday 26th September
Term 4
Monday 13th October - Staff Development Day - Curriculum
Monday 13th October to Thursday 18th December
The last day for students is Wednesday 17th December
Thursday 18th December - Staff Development Day
As always, we are here to support both you and your children in making this term successful and memorable. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need anything at all.
Let’s make this a fantastic term ahead!
Alison Hatton
(Principal)