From the Principal

Dear families,

Welcome back to Term 2. I hope the Easter break provided your family with a chance to rest, recharge and enjoy some quality time together. It has been a wonderfully positive start to the term across the school, with a real sense of energy and enthusiasm evident in our classrooms and playground.

We’ve been fortunate to enjoy some extraordinary weather for this time of year, which has certainly added to the vibrant feel around the school. Our Grade 5/6 students launched straight into the term with their camp at Lake Dewar Discovery Camp, setting a fantastic tone of independence, teamwork and adventure. You'll find some photos of the experience in 'Around the School'.

Across the school, there has been plenty happening. Classrooms are buzzing as we begin to explore Visual Arts, while also embedding and refining our structured literacy practices to support strong learning growth for all students. There is a great deal to be excited about as we look ahead to the term, with many opportunities for learning, connection and celebration.

I encourage you to take a moment to read through this newsletter to catch up on some of our recent highlights and to stay informed about the events and experiences coming up in the weeks ahead.

Upcoming...

Mother's Day Breakfast - Thursday 7th May (see flyer in Parent Information tab)
- Please note: we're seeking volunteers to support with the BBQ - if you're available to help out can you please add your name to this document.
Mother's Day Stall - Friday 8th May
School Photos - Tuesday 26th May
School Closure Day - Friday 5th June

ANZAC Day

Last week, our student leaders guided us in a reverent and respectful ANZAC Day service. It was a meaningful opportunity for our school community to come together in remembrance and reflection, honouring the service and sacrifice of those who have served our country. A sincere thank you to Kerin Johnson for her planning and support in bringing this important service together.

We are also incredibly proud of Asha, who represented our school so wonderfully at an ANZAC Day service over the weekend. Her involvement is a testament to the values of respect, courage, and service that we continue to nurture in our students.

"On Saturday, 25 April 2026, I participated in a dawn service at my grandparents’ lifestyle village.

At the service, I helped by handing out the wreaths to be laid beneath the flags, as well as giving out the programs. At the end of the service, a book titled 'Where Words Come From.' was generously donated to our school. Peter, who donated the book, kindly took a photo with me and the book.

Peter served for several years in the Australian Air Force, receiving many medals and commendations. His wife also served in the Australian Air Force for many years. Michael organised the entire dawn service and clearly explained everything that Mia and I needed to do.

Mia and I weren’t the only students helping—there were also children from Grammar who took part.

On behalf of the Australian Air Force, I hope you enjoy the book."

Sacrament of First Eucharist

We are pleased to advise that we will be offering the Sacrament of First Eucharist for eligible students in Grade 4 or above. This sacrament is available to students who have previously received the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Reconciliation. To support families in preparing for this important step, information sessions willbe held as follows:

St Patrick's Primary (Madden Hall): Tuesday 30th April at 9:00am or St Patrick’s Cathedral (Glowrey Room): Thursday 30th April at 5:30pm

All key information, including requirements and preparation, will be shared at these sessions. Student preparation sessions will be facilitated at school by Ben Shields.

Cost: $50 per child

Important: Please bring your child’s trifold certificates to the information session.

The St Patrick's Primary-led celebration of the Sacrament of First Eucharist will take place on Sunday 31st May at 10:30am at StPatrick’s Cathedral. There are also additional Mass times available, coordinated by the parish and other parish schools, should this date not suit your family.

To register your child, please complete the following form: First Eucharist Registration Form

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, or we look forward to seeing you at one of theinformation sessions.

Toilet Refurbishment Update

We’re pleased to share a further update on the toilet refurbishment. Painting is scheduled to begin late this week, marking another positive step toward completion.

Assuming all goes to plan, we are aiming to have the facilities ready to re-open from the beginning of Week 4. Thank you for your continued patience and understanding as we work to improve these spaces for our students.

2027 Foundation Enrolments

2027 Foundation Enrolments are now open. If you have a child in kindergarten and you would like to secure a place for them in Foundation at St Patrick's in 2027, you need to follow the enrolment application process outlined on our website: www.spballarat.catholic.edu.au

Please note - this is for all enrolments including our current St Patrick's families. Applications close on 14th May.

SchoolTV

This week on SchoolTV you will find a focus topic on Sleep.

“Children these days seem to be going to bed later and later. Distractions such as TV, computer games, internet, texting friends and social media are all having a negative impact on a child’s sleep time. Sleep is vital to a child’s wellbeing. When children sleep well, they are more settled, happier and ready for school the next day. Sleep also strengthens their immune systems, supports overall development and their ability to function properly on a daily basis. Children who do not get enough sleep show increased levels of aggressive behaviour, are less attentive and are much less active. Trying to catch up on sleep on weekends is not the answer and can still lead to severe sleep deprivation. Recent studies have shown than many children, especially teenagers, are missing out on vital REM sleep, which is particularly important for memory and learning.”

All Editions | St Patrick's School - Ballarat (schooltv.me)

Kind regards,

Ben Shields