Happy Father's Day!

As we approach next Sunday, the 7th September, I extend my heartfelt wishes to all fathers for a truly remarkable Father's Day. The role that fathers play in the lives of their children is indispensable, as they provide essential guidance, wisdom, support, and love throughout their journeys. Exceptional fathers consistently make sacrifices to ensure their families enjoy a fulfilling life. Thank you, fathers, for your unwavering dedication.

Well Done Molly and Sophie

A huge congratulations to Molly and Sophie, who recently represented New South Wales at the Under 12's National Hockey Championships in Bendigo. This is an outstanding achievement and a testament to their talent and dedication.

I had the opportunity to watch parts of the live-streamed games, and it was clear that both Molly and Sophie possess the skills to perform at the highest level of competition. Their hard work paid off, as the NSW team’s undefeated run enabled them to be named the best state in the country.

Everyone in our learning community should be very proud of them for their efforts and for representing our school community, diocese, and state so well. What a phenomenal achievement!

Year 5 Excursion to Coffs Harbour

From all reports I heard our Year 5 students had an incredible time on their recent excursion to the Coffs Coast Adventure Centre last week. While Armidale was experiencing a cold snap, the students were soaking up the warmer weather and enjoying a fantastic array of fun activities.

From all reports, the students threw themselves into every challenge and came away with some wonderful memories. These experiences provide not only a chance for adventure but also an opportunity to build teamwork and resilience outside the classroom.

A huge thank you goes out to Mrs. Fittler, Mr Kenny, Mr. Lester, and Mrs. Stephen for supervising the students and making the excursion such a great success. Your time and dedication are very much appreciated.

Photos from this trip are included in the photo gallery section of this newsletter.

Have a great time at Lake Keepit next week Year 4!

Speaking of excursions, I hope our Year 4 students have a fantastic time on their excursion to Lake Keepit next Thursday and Friday! It's an incredible experience filled with adventure, and I hope you will bring home some pleasant memories from the trip.

I had the pleasure of supervising the Year 3-4 students on this same trip last year, and we had an absolute blast. To those of you participating in the mud run, my best piece of advice is to wear a secure pair of old shoes! A few students lost their footwear in the mud pits last year, so a tight fit is key.

I look forward to hearing all about your highlights and adventures when you return next Friday afternoon. Have fun, be safe, and enjoy every minute!

Year 6 Learning Life-Saving Skills

Our Year 6 students participated in a crucial learning experience on Monday, taking part in the NSW CPR Program led by Cameron McFarlane. This essential program equipped our students with vital, potentially life-saving skills.

The session covered the fundamental steps of CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), teaching students how to respond in an emergency. They learned the importance of checking for danger, calling for help, and performing chest compressions.

I thank Cameron McFarlane for his expert guidance and for making this such a valuable and engaging session for our Year 6 class.

Congratulations First Reconciliation Candidates

Last Wednesday evening, our school community gathered at the cathedral for a truly special event: the Sacrament of Reconciliation. I want to extend my warmest congratulations to all of our students who received this sacrament for the very first time.

Unfortunately, I wasn't able to make it as I had to go to St Patrick's Primary School for their five-year audit, but I heard it was a beautiful and reverent liturgy, and I am so proud of the thoughtful way the students prepared themselves for this important step in their faith journey.

A heartfelt thank you goes to Miss O'Brien for her incredible work in preparing the students and for organising this liturgy. Her dedication helped make this a meaningful and memorable occasion for all involved.

O'Connor Step Day

Best of luck to all our Year 6 students who are taking part in the O'Connor Step Day this coming Tuesday!

This is a fantastic opportunity for all students enrolled at O'Connor Catholic College next year to continue their preparations for secondary school. I hope you have a wonderful time getting to know your new campus, teachers, and classmates.

This day is an important step in your journey to Year 7, and I trust all of you will enjoy every activity on offer. Have a great day!

Term 3 School Fees 2025

This is a friendly reminder that school fees are due by the end of this week.

Your contributions are essential to the financial viability of our school. By helping us plan and allocate resources effectively, your fees directly support the high standard of education, facilities, and programs we offer. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to our school community.

2025 School Improvement Survey

In 2025, the Catholic Schools Office has reappointed Survey My School to facilitate a platform through which parents can offer feedback regarding the existing practices and procedures at St. Patrick's School. Earlier this week, these surveys were distributed via email to all families and staff members. If you have not yet received your survey, please reach out to the school for assistance. This year's survey will close on Wednesday, 3rd September.

P & F Dates

FETE Save the Date Saturday 15 November - St Mary's Fete

FETE Meeting Term 3, Week 5, 19 August - 5:30 pm in the Staffroom

P&F Meeting, Term 3, Week 8, 10 September - 5.30pm in the Staffroom

Paint and Sip Fundraiser, Friday 12 September

Kindergarten Enrolments for 2026

If you know anyone who has a son/daughter ready to start school next year, please let them know that enrolments are now open. Enrolment forms can be obtained from the School Office.

Enrolments are now open for Kindergarten 2026.

Please contact the school for an enrolment package - 6772 4441 or email

smaadmin@arm.catholic.edu.au

Wearing our Uniform with Pride

Thank you parents for ensuring your children were wearing their full Winter uniform throughout the first two weeks of this term, it was very evident that we take pride in our presentation.

Maintaining a high uniform standards is an important part of our school's identity and plays a significant role in fostering a sense of pride and respect for our school.

Our uniform identifies St Mary's School within the community and develops a sense of school spirit and belonging within the student body. Some specific uniform requirements, such as shoes, hats, hair and jewellery, are directly related to student safety. The wearing of the correct school uniform is compulsory, and students are expected to arrive wearing it daily, ready to learn. Families are asked to ensure that each item of clothing is clearly labelled.

We thank you for your partnership in this important aspect of school life.

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