A Message from the Principal

Dear Parents & Carers,

Welcome back to Term 3!

Staff News

Last week we farewelled Meg Humphrey, who is now on leave awaiting the arrival of her first child. We wish Meg all the best for this special time. 

Rachel Simkin (Canteen Supervisor) has extended her leave until 2026. We thank Rachel for all the wonderful work she has done for our school and extend our best wishes to her as she enjoys spending time with her family. We are fortunate that Michelle Cortis will continue as our Canteen Supervisor and I thank Michelle for taking on this role again. We are so blessed to have you.

It is very exciting to welcome two new staff members to our school community: Miss Kayla Latter teaching Year 5/6 and Mrs Sumandana teaching Year 3/4. I encourage parents/carers to introduce yourself to our new staff. A message from our new teachers follows.

KAYLA LATTER

Hello! My name is Kayla Latter and I have just started here at St Joseph’s Primary Quirindi, teaching on the Y5/6 class. I am excited to be here and am looking forward to meeting everyone and having the students in my class. 

A bit about me, I grew up in Inverell before moving away to begin my teaching career, which I have been in for almost a year now. I first started as an early childhood educator where I was in this role for approximately six years, until I finished my uni degree and then began my primary teaching career as a casual teacher in Armidale, in 2024. Teaching and supporting students is my passion and has been ever since I can remember, which makes it even more special that I am now doing what I had dreamed of as a child. Rural life is a big part of me, after growing up out of town and having two beautiful family farms to love and experience, but I also enjoy the beach and anything water or outdoor adventure related. 

I hope everyone has had a lovely break over the school holidays and I am looking forward to the many happy and fun experiences at St Joseph’s Primary School. 

MRS SUMANDANA

Bula Vinaka, Namaste and Kia Ora 

I’m thrilled to be joining the St Joseph’s School community as the Year 3 and 4 teacher. I love seeing students learn and strengthening their individual potential to become lifelong learners. I bring with me a passion for creating inclusive, engaging learning environments where every child feels valued and supported.

I have been teaching for the past 18 years from Early Childhood to Year 8 both internationally and locally.  I enjoy gardening, cooking and spending time with my two kids: Elvira and Evyan. I’m also delighted to share that my daughter, Elvira, has joined the school. My 3-year-old son will be at a local daycare, and as a family, we are all excited to be part of this warm and welcoming community.

I look forward to getting to know you all in the coming weeks. I’d love to meet you all!

We also welcome four new students to our school community: William Hartge & Elvira Dhillon in 5/6 and Riley (Yr 1) & Jake (Yr 3) Turner.  We hope you enjoy your time in our school.

PT & F

Our PT & F meeting is scheduled for this Wednesday at 6.00pm via zoom. All parents and carers are most welcome by using this link: https://armcatholic.zoom.us/j/91734236569

Have a happy and safe week

Pauline Long

Principal