Principal's News

Dear St Joseph's Parents, Carers and Families,

It’s hard to believe we have only one week and 2 days left of our school year. This term, and the entire year, has gone by so quickly! There has been so much joy and energy in our classrooms and even as the end of the year draws to a close, we still continue to provide rich learning opportunities, engaging activities, and meaningful moments as we’ve continued to make the most of our time together at our wonderful school before the end of the year.

As we move through this final stretch, we also find ourselves in the beautiful season of Advent - a time of hope, anticipation, and preparation as we look forward to Christmas. It’s a special opportunity for us to reflect, come together as a community, and appreciate the spirit of giving and gratitude that surrounds this time of year.

With so much happening at this exciting and busy time of the year, let’s continue to support one another, stay positive, and enjoy the celebrations ahead.  We aim to make the last few days truly memorable - especially for the students who will be moving onto new schools and places in 2026 - before we head into a well-deserved summer break, 

The Season of Advent

As we enter the season of Advent, our school community embraces a time of hope, reflection, and preparation. Advent invites us to pause, celebrate the gifts of the present, and look forward to the joy of Christmas. It is a special opportunity for students, staff, and families to come together, deepen their faith, and practice kindness, gratitude, and generosity in the lead-up to this festive season.

Lighting the Advent Candles:

• 1st Sunday of Advent - We light the purple candle of Hope
• 2nd Sunday of Advent  - We light the purple candles of Hope and Peace
• 3rd Sunday of Advent - We light the purple candles of Hope and Peace and the pink candle of Joy
• 4th Sunday of Advent - We light the purple candles of Hope, Peace and Love and the pink candle of Joy
• On Christmas Eve or Christmas Day - We light all four Advent candles & the white Christ candle 

Prayer for Advent

Father

As we begin our Advent pilgrimage

We light a candle of hope. 

Grant us the courage to hope: hope for your presence, hope for your peace, and hope for your promise. 

Amen.

Advent Liturgies

Beginning next week, we will be celebrating Advent Liturgies across the week. Please have a read of Ms Donnella De Visser's Catholic Identity page in this week's newsletter with the days and times that each class will be leading us in prayer. All families are very warmly invited to come along and share these faith liturgies with us.

School Review - Dialogue and Engagement Session

This week we had the privilege of having our school reviewer with us for one last time this year. It was an opportunity for him to present his school review report to our leadership team and representatives from MACS. He presented an outstanding review report, and as a leadership team and staff, we are very proud of all that has been achieved across this year and over the last four year school improvement review cycle at St Joseph’s.

Next week Dean, Amanda, Donnella, and I will join the MACS school improvement team to write our four-year School Improvement Plan (SIP) based on the reviewer’s recommendations. We have a lot to celebrate at St Joseph’s, and we look forward to setting our goals and targets for the next four years. 

'My School' Snapshot- NAPLAN Data

This week all schools across Australia had their NAPLAN results published on the 'My School' website. This website provides a good snapshot of schools and their NAPLAN results and school's performance for 2025.

Below I have include a few of the graphs on the website which show our school's excellence in literacy and numeracy when compared to other schools across the county.

The graphs below show us (in blue) compared to other Australian schools (grey). It shows the growth of our students in reading, writing and numeracy, from Year 3 to Year 5

The graph below shows that we sit well above the average when compared to all Australian students in reading, writing, spelling, grammar and numeracy.

I congratulate our outstanding school leaders for the coaching and mentoring they provide to our teaching staff, our teachers for their excellence in the delivery of explicit instruction, and our students who work hard in a calm, focussed and structured learning environment to achieve these outstanding results.

Year 3s and 4s Camp to the Briars

This week our Year 3 and 4 students attended school camp at the Briars near Mt Martha as part of our Outdoor Education program. This exciting experience provided them with opportunities to develop independence, teamwork, and resilience while participating in a range of outdoor and group activities. They enjoyed a supportive, safe, and memorable time together. We thank our amazing staff- Dean Butler, Georgina Carman, Donnella DeVisser, David Prowse, Grace Harrick, Tanya Huebner, Christie Birch, Lauren O'Grady and Rachael Kemp for looking after the children so well while they were away. The students and staff reported it was the best camp ever! It is so great that we can provide such exciting opportunities for our students.

Swimming Carnival

On Tuesday, our Years 3, 4, 5, and 6 students had a fantastic time in the pool at our annual Swimming Carnival held at the Ashburton Pool and Recreation Centre. A huge shout-out to Ms Christie Birch for all her hard work in organising such a successful and enjoyable event for our children. We also extend our thanks to the many teachers and parents who supported Ms Birch and encouraged the students throughout the day.

It was a wonderful event filled with great team spirit, enthusiasm, and kindness. Many students encouraged their peers, cheered on their classmates, and proudly supported their house teams. The St Joseph’s spirit was well and truly alive on Thursday.

It was an exciting and very close race to the finish line; however, we warmly congratulate the Red House Team, who emerged as the winning team on the day? Congratulations to our Red Team House Captains Pip and Oscar for accepting the shield on behalf of their house.

End of Year Music Concert

Last night we held our end-of-year music concert, and what a wonderful evening it was. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Phavian and his team of exceptional music teachers, who worked tirelessly to give our students a chance to shine. And shine they did - what talented musicians we have!

Congratulations to all of the students who took centre stage and performed so beautifully in front of such a supportive and enthusiastic audience. Your hard work, courage, and passion were truly inspiring. Well done to everyone involved!

Transition Program for our Year 4, 5 and 6 students 

Our Year 4, 5, and 6 students continue to engage enthusiastically in their senior transition program.

Last week, Hanna Rose (Mother of Oscar in Year 6) worked with all students across these year levels on a creative follow-up activity focused on school values. Each child reflected on St Joseph’s core values of strength and kindliness, exploring what these qualities look like in their daily school life and relationships. Students who will be moving on to new schools also had the opportunity to investigate and discuss the values of their future schools.

As our Year 4 students prepare to step into their roles as senior leaders, and as our Year 5 and 6 students continue to model leadership within the school, they considered how they can actively demonstrate these values through their actions, decisions, and interactions with others. Those transitioning to new schools reflected on how they can carry these values forward and contribute positively to their new school communities. This activity encouraged thoughtful conversations, creative expression, and a deeper understanding of how values guide and inspire responsible leadership.

Next week, the students who will be transitioning into our senior school as future leaders will take part in a special team-building experience. This activity is designed to strengthen their connections with one another, help them form new friendships, and support their growth as they step into their upcoming leadership roles. It will be a valuable opportunity for them to develop confidence, collaboration skills, and a strong sense of unity as they prepare to emerge as the new senior leaders of our school. We look forward to enjoying this special activity with them.

Next week, we have the privilege of welcoming St Joseph's Parish Seminarian Patrick Harris, who will be speaking with the children about the importance of school values and how these values help guide them through times of change and growth. Patrick will also explore with the students how they can continue to deepen their relationship with God as they enter a new stage of their school lives. He will discuss what it means to carry faith into their daily actions, to lead with kindness and strength, and to remain open to God’s presence as they take on new responsibilities, whether as senior leaders in Years 5 and 6 or as students preparing to move on to new school communities. This session will support and enrich the work students have already been doing in their transition program, helping them understand that their values and faith can be a steady foundation wherever they go.

As part of the transition program, we will also welcome past students from St Joseph’s who will speak with our senior students about their own transitions to secondary school. We look forward to welcoming Lenny, Rupert, Amity, Alyssia, Myles and Patrick. It is also so lovely to have previous St Joseph's studnets come back to visit and on this occasion we look forward to hearing about their transition to new schools.

'Speak With Power' – Final Presentations

Last week our Year 5 and 6 students proudly concluded their Speak With Power public speaking program and presented their speeches that they had worked so hard on in front of our Year 4 students, teachers and many parents and carers who attended. Our students delivered their final speeches with confidence, clarity, and a wonderful sense of pride. It was a fantastic celebration of the skills they have developed over the past weeks, including public speaking, persuasive communication, and the courage to share their voices.

We were delighted to welcome so many families who came along to support the students. Your presence helped create an encouraging atmosphere that truly lifted the students and made the occasion special.

Congratulations to all students for their hard work and growth throughout the program! We congratulate Cooper for taking our the winning public speaking prize nominated by Mr Ron Thomas - the coach from Speak with power.

St Joseph's Leadership Speeches

On Monday, our Year 5 students will present their leadership speeches to the 2 to Year 6 students and teachers. Over the past few weeks, they have spent valuable time reflecting on our school values and considering how these will guide them as they take on their roles as school leaders in 2026. Their preparation has shown maturity, thoughtfulness, and a genuine desire to contribute positively to our school community.

We look forward to hearing their speeches and witnessing the confidence, creativity, and leadership potential they bring to this important moment in their learning journey. 

After the speeches, students from Year 2 to Year 4, along with their teachers and school leaders, will have the opportunity to vote for the 2026 school capatins. There will be meaningful discussion to support students in making thoughtful choices, encouraging them to vote for peers who demonstrate our St Joseph’s values of strength and kindness and who lead by example.

Exciting Student News- Congratulations Otis!

We are delighted to share that Otis in Year 2 has been selected for the Melbourne City Football Club Pre-Academy Squad for 2026! What a fantastic achievement!

More than 100 players trialled to be part of this elite squad with only a small number offered a place, making Otis’s selection especially impressive.

Otis was very excited to receive the news, and we are all incredibly proud of his hard work, talent, and commitment. Well done, Otis! The St Joseph's school community is cheering you on! 

2026 Classes - 'Moving Up' Day

On Monday we will hold our 'Moving Up Day'.

During this session, students will be informed of their new class teacher for 2026 and will spend time in their new classroom with their teacher and classmates. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to begin forming connections, explore their new learning environment, and ease any uncertainties about the year ahead.

On this day we also welcome new stduents who will joining St Joseph's at the beginning of next year.

Moving Up Day helps students feel prepared, confident, and excited as they transition into their new classes. It is always a positive and energising way to finish the school year and look forward to the next chapter of learning at St Joseph’s.

A great deal of thought and care goes into the formation of these classes, with staff and school leaders considering each child’s learning needs, social connections, wellbeing, and the overall balance of each group. Our goal is always to create the best possible learning environment for every student.

End of Year Mass

Next Thursday at 2pm we will celebrate our end of year Mass in St Joseph’s Church. During this special service, we will farewell our graduating Year 6 students, acknowledging their growth, achievements, and contributions to our school community over the years. It is a moment to celebrate their journey at St Joseph’s and to wish them every success as they move on to new schools and experiences. It will also be an opportunity to give thanks to the staff who have contributed immensely to our community and to pray for them as they too begin new journeys. We will also warmly welcome our new Year 6 School Captains, marking the beginning of their leadership journey.

The Mass is always a beautiful and meaningful occasion, a time to reflect on the year, celebrate the achievements of our students, and give thanks to God for the many blessings we have received throughout the year. It is a moment for our whole school community to come together in gratitude, prayer, and celebration as we honour our leaving students and look forward to the year ahead.

Year 6 Graduation Celebration and Fun Day

On Thursday evening, our Year 6 students will celebrate their Graduation Evening with their families, teachers, and Year 6 friends. It will be a special night filled with memories, reflection, and celebration as we mark the end of their time at St Joseph’s.

We look forward to listening to their speeches, watching their ‘leaving’ presentations, and sharing in the joy of this important milestone. Fr Gallacher will be joining us for this meaningful occasion, adding to the sense of community and blessing.

It promises to be a memorable evening as we honour the achievements, growth, and contributions of our Class of 2025, and celebrate the start of the next chapter in their lives.

The school event commences at 6:30pm until 7:30pm and this will then followed by a family celebration from 7:30-9:30pm.

We thank our wonderful parents Amy and Chris Buick and Rachel and George Wilson (parents of school captains Bridget Buick and Callum Wilson) who, with the support of senior leader Clare Smith have worked hard coordinating and organising a beautiful celebration for our Year 6s!

On Friday our Year 6s will enjoy their Big Day Out at Gumbaya World. They are very much looking forward to this end of year celebration!

Principal and Deputy Principal for a Day- Take 2

Next Monday, I look forward to having Archie (Year 3) as 'Principal for the Day' and Frankie (Year 2) as 'Deputy Principal for the Day' once again! Both students received this as one of the prizes from this year's Trivia Night. We are very excited for both students to enjoy this exciting responsibility of joining Mr Butler and I, in running the school for the day... again!

New St Joseph's Families

Over the past couple of weeks, we’ve had the pleasure of welcoming a few new families into our St Joseph’s community. We extend the warmest welcome to Randall in Year 2 and Julia in Prep. It’s been a joy to see our wonderful St Joseph’s students embracing new children and families with such warmth and kindness, both in the classroom and out in the playground. 

School Tours and Prep 2027 Enrolments

Enrolments for new and current families for 2027 are now open. We require all current families to ensure they submit a sibling application for 2027 to ensure a placement in our Prep intake for 2027. The enrolment application form can be found on our website. Please contact the school office if you have any queries. Prospective families are also welcome to contact the office to join one of our school tours for 2027.

School Advisory Council - Annual General Meeting

Last week, our 2025 School Advisory Council gathered for our Annual General Meeting, a special moment to celebrate the achievements of the past year and to honour the contributions of all members, particularly those whose terms are concluding.

During the meeting, I extended my deepest appreciation to this year’s SAC Chair, David Stegehuis, who has been an exceptional contributor and a dedicated advocate for our school. His leadership, generosity of time, and thoughtful guidance have made a remarkable impact. I also expressed my gratitude to Courtney Jendra for her outstanding service as Secretary. Her organisation, attention to detail, and contributions have been invaluable. In addition, we warmly acknowledged Laura Kay and Talia Hassett, who have served as P&F Presidents and contributed significantly to our P&F. Their commitment, enthusiasm, and passion for strengthening our school community have been truly appreciated.

Both Fr Gallacher and I reported on the successes of this year, highlighting the many achievements and positive outcomes that have benefited our students, staff, and wider community. We are deeply grateful for the dedication each of these members have shown throughout the year and for the positive difference they have made at St Joseph’s. Their efforts have supported our mission, enriched our community, and helped shape the future of our school.

As we look ahead to 2026, I am thankful for all expressions of interest in positions on St Joseph’s School Advisory Council for next year. As we received overwhelming interest, which is a true testament to the strong commitment of our community and the value placed on supporting the growth and success of our school, Fr Gallacher my myself undertook a careful and considered review of each EOI.

I proudly present members of the School Advisory Council for 2026:

Fr Gallacher

Annabelle Marinelli

Dean Butler

Chair - Kate Tehan (Mum of Alice)

Secretary  - Michael Tuohey (Father of Grace)

Sascha Pausewang (Father of Scarlett)

Annie K (Mum of Rafaela and Felix)

Jess Dennis (Mum of Albie, Will and Winnie)

Simon Hulett (Father of Holly)

Lucy McGrath (Mum of Spencer, Bennett and Agnes)

I thank the new School Advisory Council for their dedication and their commitment to serving our school in 2026.

St Joseph’s Community Proudly Supporting JoCare

At JoCare's Christmas event this week, the St Joseph’s community was delighted to support JoCare and the wonderful work they do in our local area. Our students brought festive cheer to the celebration by singing Christmas carols, adding warmth and joy to an afternoon that highlighted the power of community connection.

JoCare is a voluntary community program in the Stonnington area and surrounds that promotes neighbourliness, companionship, and care for those around us. Their work includes helping people stay connected with family, friends, and community.

Established through a partnership between St Joseph’s Parish Malvern and Cabrini Outreach, JoCare reaches out to all in the community, regardless of background or belief.

The St Joseph’s community is proud to bring some Christmas cheer to JoCare and we thank them for the important work they do in building a caring and connected community.

Christmas Carols and Picnic at St Joseph's

Next Tuesday, 9th December, we will come together for our whole school End-of-Year Christmas Carols event. The celebration will commence at 3:45 pm and conclude by 4:45 pm.

We warmly invite all our families to join us as our students perform their Christmas songs and carols. It promises to be a joyful afternoon filled with music, festive cheer, and the wonderful spirit of our school community. Be sure to bring along your picnic, rug, snacks, and drinks so you can relax and enjoy the event with your family.

This special occasion is supported by our amazing P&F, and we extend our sincere thanks to them for their hard work in helping make the day so enjoyable. We also thank all our teachers for their preparation and dedication in guiding our students to share their music with confidence and joy.

It’s a fun and festive way to celebrate the end of the school year together, and we can’t wait to see everyone there!

P& F Update- 2026 Family Fun Day- Save The Date!

Our 2026 P&F Executive Team - Stef, Angela N, Hayley, Angela L, Jess, and Fleur, have been working busily behind the scenes to plan our St Joseph’s Family Fun Day for 2026. Their dedication and creativity are already shaping what promises to be a fantastic event for our whole school community.

While more details will be shared soon, we encourage everyone to save the date in your calendars: Saturday, March 28 from 10am to 3pm. It will be a wonderful family day of and community spirit, and we can’t wait to celebrate together!

Call for 2026 P&F Grade Representatives

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our amazing 2025 Parent Reps, whose dedication and efforts have been instrumental in supporting and connecting our parent community. Through fostering relationships, sharing information, and creating a sense of belonging, they have made a real difference for all families at St Joseph’s.

The success of our fundraising initiatives and the many positive outcomes achieved this year would not have been possible without their commitment, and the ongoing support of our entire school community.

We are now seeking enthusiastic parents to join us as Grade Representatives for 2026. This is a wonderful opportunity to get involved, support fellow families, and help build an even stronger school community. Your contribution, whether big or small, makes a lasting impact! If you are interested in being a Grade Representatives for 2026, please contact Lynnette in the office or email me directly.

What's On Next Week...

Staying in Touch

Together, we work in partnership to support and nurture the children at St Joseph's.

If you have any concerns or worries about your child's wellbeing, learning, or friendships, please do not hesitate to have a chat with your child's teacher as your first point of contact, or a member of our school leadership team. For more serious concerns, I encourage you to reach out to me directly, either by making an appointment through the office or contacting me via email. 

With only just over a week before the end of the year, hang in there everyone, one as we enjoy a very busy but festive end to the year!

With blessings and warmest regards,

Annabelle Marinelli

Principal 

annabelle.marinelli@sjmalvern.catholic.edu.au