Principal News
What a school!
Thank you for taking the time to read this week's newsletter. There's a real buzz around our school at the moment, with so much happening both in and out of the classroom!
Today, we cheered on our Years 3–6 runners as they competed in the Cross Country at the foreshore. It was a beautiful morning down at the beach and all the students did their best. Thank you to the many parents who were able to assist and a special shout out to those who ran with the students, a couple of our Dad's clocked up over 10km!
Also today, a group of talented swimmers proudly represented St Mary’s at the Beachside Carnival, showcasing their hard work and dedication in the pool. We will update the community in our next newsletter how they went!
Thank you to Miss Sam Sullivan for coordinating both of these events!
Back at school, our Year 6 students are settling back into their routines after an unforgettable camp experience in Canberra, filled with adventure, teamwork, and lasting memories. It’s wonderful to see their leadership and energy back at school.
Our Dad's were unlucky, just losing to Sandringham Primary in the annual 20/20 Cricket tournament Grand Final. It was pleasing to hear that they were all still able to celebrate following the match. Thanks to the many families who attended.
There’s a real sense of positivity and connection throughout our community, and we look forward to a fantastic last month of Term 1!
Year 6 Camp
Our Year 6 students have just returned from an incredible week in Canberra, filled with exciting experiences, learning opportunities, and plenty of fun! From visiting Parliament House to exploring Questacon and the Australian War Memorial, the trip was a fantastic chance for students to deepen their understanding of our nation’s capital.
The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government is contributing funding of $45 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs. The rebate is paid directly to the school upon completion of the excursion. Please note, this was taken into account when costing for the camp was finalised.
A huge thank you to our Year 6 students for the way they represented our school with respect, enthusiasm, and curiosity throughout the camp. A superb group of school leaders they are!
We would also like thank Miss Sam Sullivan, Mrs Michelle Perpina, and Vicki White for their time, effort, and care in supporting the students on this adventure. Your dedication is truly appreciated!
For a more detailed recap and photos from the week, head to the Senior School News page.
Lent Celebrations
Lent is a special time in the Catholic calendar, a season of reflection, prayer, and renewal as we prepare for Easter. It is a time to grow closer to God through acts of kindness, self-discipline, and generosity. As a school community, Lent invites us to walk this journey together, supporting one another in deepening our faith and making a positive impact in the lives of others.
Throughout Lent, our school is embracing this season with various activities and opportunities for prayer, service, and reflection. We encourage everyone to participate in these moments of spiritual growth and community engagement.
For more details on how we are celebrating Lent as a school, head over to the Catholic Identity page.
Thank you to Veronica Del Castillo for being an incredible leader of faith in our community, and to Father Martin for his continued spiritual guidance and support.
School Photography
A huge thank you to Jarrod Barnes and Katie Schade, parents in our school community, for coming in and capturing some incredible professional photos of our staff and students. We also appreciate the efforts of staff members and Level Leaders, Bianca Ludeman and Ed Simpson for coordinating this opportunity.
The results are amazing—see a snapshot below! If you're looking for a photographer, I highly recommend reaching out to Jarrod and Katie for any photography needs.
P&F Update
A huge thank you to all the P&F representatives who attended our first official meeting of the year. It is a selfless role, and we appreciate the time and effort you give to support our school community. Your contributions help foster a welcoming and connected environment! Thanks to Sarah Kavanagh for leading the charge as President!
We have some exciting events coming up this term:
🐰 Easter Raffle – March 24th - April 3rd
🌭 End of Term Sausage Sizzle – April 4th
More details will be shared soon—stay tuned!
School Advisory Council
Thank you to our School Advisory Council members for attending our second meeting for the year. It is great to be apart of some robust discussions on how we can further improve our already incredible school.
Key topics discussed included Masterplanning, ensuring our facilities continue to evolve to meet the needs of our growing enrolments, and celebrating the academic successes of our students. Your insights and support play a vital role in shaping the future of our school.
We look forward to another productive year ahead—thank you for your ongoing contributions!
Castlefield Centenary
The Bayside community will turn out at the Castlefield Reserve in Ludstone Street Hampton on Sunday 23 March from 11.00am for a once-in-a-century event – with St Mary’s Choir featuring!
The Governor of Victoria - Her Excellency the Hon Prof Margaret Gardner AC – who will unveil a plaque – heads a list of official guests from the Army, Navy and RAAF, theRSL and the Shrine of Remembrance. The 30-member Navy Band will play and a soloist will sing, armed forces cadets will raise the Australian flag, local, state and federal dignitaries will pay their respects.
Official proceedings run from 11.00 till around midday. Stay for the Hampton Scouts BBQ, and food and drink stalls from the CWA, Hampton Lifesaving Club and the Greek Imvrian Society.
Open Days & Sibling Enrolments
We’ve loved welcoming so many prospective families to our recent Open Days, showcasing the incredible learning environment, dedicated staff, and vibrant community that make our school so special! If you haven’t had a chance to visit yet, there are still two more opportunities:
📅 Friday, 21st March: 9am - 3pm
📅 Thursday, 3rd April: 9am - 3pm
Sibling Enrolments – Due Now!
A friendly reminder that sibling enrolments are now open and can be completed online
https://www.smhampton.catholic.edu.au/enrolment/how-to-enrol
Thanks
Steele Anderson
Principal - St Mary's
