PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE

As we move into the heart of Term 2, our school community continues to buzz with activity and purpose. It is a joy to share with you the many ways our students and families are connecting, growing, and planning for what lies ahead.

A Future Full of Hope

In a few weeks, we will celebrate Catholic Schools Week. This year’s theme, "Our Hope-Filled Future," feels particularly resonant. In a world that can often feel uncertain, leaning into our Catholic values provides a steadying compass. By focusing on loving God, loving one another, and caring for those less fortunate, we find a path that is truly life-giving. These aren't just words; they are the foundation of a resilient spirit. For more details on the spiritual heart of these celebrations, I encourage you to read the Religious Education section of this newsletter.

Building this hope-filled future is also about opportunity. As you look through this edition at the wide array of extra-curricular activities on offer, I urge every student to "give things a go." Whether it’s on the sporting field, in a creative pursuit, or a service project, every new experience builds the confidence and skills needed to face the future with optimism.

Planning for the Road Ahead

The "future" is already taking shape here at school!

• Open Day: Thank you to everyone who made last week’s Open Day such a success. It was wonderful to welcome new faces to our school.
• Stage 6 Planning: This week, we are hosting information sessions for our Year 10 students and families regarding their transition to Stage 6. This is a pivotal moment in their educational journey, and we are committed to supporting them every step of the way.
• Kindergarten 2027: Next week, the excitement continues as we begin interviews for our 2027 Kindergarten cohort.

Insights from the CSNSW Behaviour Symposium

Last week, I had the privilege of attending the Catholic Schools NSW Behaviour Symposium. I heard from various experts on critical topics including anti-bullying, resilience, and school safety. The recurring message was the vital importance of unity and forgiveness within a school community. Ensuring our students feel safe and supported is our highest priority, and these insights will continue to inform our wellbeing practices.

Community Spirit in Action

I want to extend a massive thank you to two groups who went above and beyond last week:

1. Our Incredible Staff: On Friday, we hosted over 350 people for our Mother’s Day Breakfast. To the staff who arrived in the dark to shop for supplies, made coffee, and flip hundreds of pancakes—thank you. Your commitment to fostering the relationship between home and school is what makes our community so special.
2. Our P&F Association: The Mother’s Day Stall was a great success, and we hope the mums in our community enjoyed their gifts! This small, dedicated group of women works tirelessly behind the scenes.

The impact of the P&F’s hard work is visible everywhere. In this newsletter, you can read about their generous donation of new games for the Library and new team uniforms for our sporting sides.

Most notably, you may have noticed our new electronic sign at the Kiss and Drop. This was funded entirely by P&F efforts—including the Easter Fair and Mega Raffle—at a cost of over $30,000. We are so grateful to every family who supports these fundraisers. Now, I just have to master the software to operate it!

I look forward to seeing many of you at our Catholic Schools Week Picnic in a couple of weeks.

I am attending principal's meetings this week in Tamworth. As always I am available via email.

Have a good few weeks till the next newsletter!

Jilly