Principal's Update

Dear Families, 

Many of our students are currently preparing to celebrate the beautiful Sacrament of Reconciliation through our partnership with St Therese’s Parish. During this special time, our children are learning about God’s unconditional love, mercy, and forgiveness. They are developing a deeper understanding of the importance of reflecting on their actions, seeking forgiveness when they make mistakes, and extending forgiveness to others.

Reconciliation, or the ability to forgive, is critical to every person’s wellbeing and ability to flourish. When we hold onto anger, hurt, or resentment, it can weigh heavily on our hearts and affect our relationships with others. Forgiveness does not mean forgetting or excusing hurtful actions; rather, it is a conscious choice to let go of bitterness and seek healing. 

One of the reasons Ted Lasso resonates with so many people is its message that people are more than their mistakes. The famous line, “Be curious, not judgmental,” reminds us that when we take time to understand others, forgiveness becomes possible. As Catholics, we are called to follow the example of Jesus, who showed mercy, compassion, and forgiveness to all, even when it was difficult. 

In our school community, forgiveness helps relationships grow stronger. Whether it is a misunderstanding between friends, an unkind word, or a mistake made in haste, choosing forgiveness reflects God’s love at work in our lives. When we forgive, we create space for healing, kindness, and new beginnings, helping our community become a place of hope, respect, and belonging for all.

Loving God,  

Help us to be quick to forgive, slow to judge, and always willing to see the good in others.  

Give us hearts filled with mercy, kindness, and understanding, 

so that we may follow Jesus’ example 

and bring healing, hope, and peace to our school community.  

Amen. 

Blessing of the Animals & St Francis of Assisi Awards 

A special thank you to our parents and grandparents who brought along the family pets to be blessed last Friday - we very much appreciate your support.  

Congratulations to the recipients of the Assisi Awards. They are listed below for your benefit. 

Instrumental Concert 

All families are invited to attend the 2 Instrumental Concerts that will be held on Tuesday 10 November. 

• Fdn/1/2/3 concert will be held from 11.30 - 1.30pm 

• Year 4/5/6 and rock bands concert will be held from 6.00 - 8.00pm. 

It is a wonderful celebration of the grit and determination displayed by our students and instrumental teachers. I hope you can join us in the shed for these celebrations. 

Christmas Concert 

It is with much joy that we announce a new and exciting event on our school calendar. Our school will be holding a Christmas Concert, to be held on Tuesday 1st December, from 6pm to approximately 7.30pm on the lower soccer pitch area.  

The concert is a fantastic opportunity for our students to come together with friends and family, with Christmas spirit in abundance, and experience the thrill of singing a song on stage with the support and encouragement of our community.  

This helps boost their confidence and self-esteem, improves social/interpersonal skills, resilience, open-mindedness, a sense of belonging and teamwork/cooperation working towards a common goal.   

The students have begun learning and rehearsing their songs in music classes with Mrs. Mason and Mrs. Rusbridge and will continue working on them for the duration of the term. 

Our Parents and Friends Committee have committed to providing the food for a BBQ fundraiser from 5.30pm on the night and families are welcome to bring their own rugs, chairs, picnics and non-alcoholic drinks for the occasion.  

A reminder that all children will be under the supervision of their parent/guardian on the night and that videos will not be permitted due to licensing agreements and child protection regulations.  

We look forward to seeing everyone there, to support this wonderful event. 

Foundation Transition Sessions 

Our kinder students will be able to enjoy hour long transition sessions on: 

• Monday 9 November 

• Tuesday 24 November 

All families know their times as they have been sent their time slots.  

We look forward to learning more with our new and existing families.  

Bendigo Cup Holiday 

Please note that our school will be closed on Wednesday 28 October for the Bendigo Cup Day. I hope you enjoy a lovely break!! 

Summer Uniform 

All children are now required to be in their full summer uniform. As part of enrolling your child at St. Francis of the Fields P.S. it is expected that all children will wear the prescribed school uniform. 

Please note that all students and teachers must wear hats when outside at recess and lunch, and during sporting activities.   

Term 4 School Closure Days & Public Holidays 

Please note that our school will be closed on the following days: 

• Wednesday 28 October - Bendigo Cup Holiday 
• Monday 2 November – Report Writing Day (as prescribed by CESL) 
• Monday 14 December - 2027 Planning Day 
• Tuesday 15 December – 2027 Planning Day 
• Wednesday 16 December - 2027 Planning Day 

This means the last day of the school year for our children will be Friday 11 December. Our school will finish the 2026 school year at 3.20pm on this day. 

Parents & Friends and Advisory Council - End of Year Meal 

All parents, who have contributed to our Parents and Friends Community and our School Advisory Council, are invited to attend a meal to celebrate all that has been achieved in 2026.  

• When: Wednesday 2 December 

• Where: Braidies Tavern 

• Time: 6.00 - 8.30pm 

• Drinks: At your own expense 

• RSVP: Tuesday 24 November to office@sfstrathfieldsaye.catholic.edu.au

Please let the school know if you would like to attend so we can cater appropriately.  

Please email on office@sfstrathfieldsaye.catholic.edu.au to clarify numbers attending and any dietary requirements.   

Please note that there will be no further P & F meetings or Advisory Council meetings for 2026.  

Assembly  

Our Term 4 assemblies will be held on: 

• Friday 23 October at 2.45pm with 1R & 1S (Mr Ryan and Ms Shanahan) 

• Friday 13 November at 2.45pm with Fdn M, Fdn W, Fdn D & Fdn BA. 

• Friday 4 December at 2.45pm Farewell assembly. 

All family members are invited to attend each of our assemblies.  

Kind Regards,

Tim Moloney

Principal

Rock Bands - Upcoming Performance

Our St Francis School Bands will be rocking the Golden Vine this Tuesday 27th October and you're invited!

It all kicks off at 6pm and features "The Krakens", "Taco Tuesday", "The Band", Eppalock Primary's band "Possum Tragics" as well as some ex-student performers.

Book a table and we'll see you there!