Wellbeing & Inclusion

We are excited to welcome all families back to Term 3 at St Mary’s. We hope the holidays brought rest, fun, and time together. As we begin a new term, we focus on helping children re‑establish routines, settle confidently into school life, and reconnect with their classmates and teachers.

This term, we continue to nurture our Flourishing Learners, children who feel connected, challenged, and engaged in their learning every day. A smooth start helps students feel organised, calm, and ready to learn, and we appreciate the support families provide in helping children arrive on time, prepared, and positive about the day ahead.

Strong attendance and engagement remain key priorities. When students are present, involved, and participating actively in classroom activities, they build deeper understanding, stronger friendships, and greater confidence. Your partnership in encouraging consistent attendance makes a meaningful difference.

Setting Students up for Success: Engagement & Attendance

At St Mary’s, we know that strong attendance and engagement help children feel connected, confident, and ready to learn. Being present, on time, and prepared each morning makes a big difference to how successfully students begin their day.

When children arrive on time, they have the chance to:

greet their friends and settle calmly
organise their belongings
hear important morning instructions
begin learning feeling confident and ready

A smooth start supports students by helping them feel connected, challenged, and engaged right from the first bell. Even a few minutes late can make children feel rushed, unsettled, and anxious, so we appreciate your support in helping students arrive on time each day.

Consistent attendance also strengthens learning progress, wellbeing, and classroom relationships. When students are present and engaged, they build stronger routines, deeper understanding, and a positive sense of belonging.

How You Can Support a Smooth Start

Families play a vital role in helping children feel settled and ready to learn. Here are some simple ways to support your child at home:

Re‑establish daily routines such as regular bedtimes and calm morning starts
Pack bags and lunches the night before to reduce morning stress
Talk about learning — ask your child what they enjoyed, found interesting, or are proud of
Encourage independence by letting children organise their belongings and take responsibility for packing their own bag
Celebrate effort — noticing small wins builds confidence and resilience
Prioritise attendance so children stay connected to their learning and friendships

These small habits make a big difference in helping children feel secure, prepared, and confident each day.