Principal's Welcome
Carmela D'Amato
Dear Families,
As we nearly complete Week 6, we take this opportunity to give thanks for the people in our lives, those that continue to shape us, be near us, advise us, guide us. We welcomed back Jemma McVeigh from her LSL as well as our Pilgrims, Oriana Belanti and Natasha Ravanello. We thank all three of our Emerging Leaders for allowing us to be part of this amazing experience. While Natasha and Oriana were overseas, physically experiencing the wonder of Jesus and Our Lord, Michelle was here compiling their photos and videos for us to enjoy. Thank you also for our gifts which will be displayed in our school.
Michelle Peel shared an amazing reel with me on Friday night that captured the very essence of World Youth Day. It has incredible shots of just how many young people were united by their faith. It is something that resonates in Sunday's gospel reflection, “Jesus appeared to them walking on the water, and they were frightened. Jesus confronts the fear they experience and calls Peter to walk on the water as a sign of his faith in Him. Peter begins to walk on water, and then in fear, he begins to sink. He cries out to Jesus Who catches Him and then gently rebukes Peter for his lack of faith.” Mt 14: 22-33
Absolutely amazing scenery. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
We are looking forward to our Year 6 students receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation on Saturday 19th of August. Bishop Terry Curtin came to speak to them yesterday about how the Spirit is in all of us and challenges us to be a voice for Jesus. I ask that we all send our prayers for our candidates in preparation for Saturday.
Thank you to our families who have taken notice of the reminders regarding traffic etiquette at our school. We have noticed that many more parents are waiting patiently for their turn in Kiss and Drop and many less parents are doing U Turns on Burnleigh Drive at the front of the school. Unfortunately, there are still some parents who are continuing to make U Turns in the neighbour’s driveways. Please be respectful of our neighbour's driveways, and always be mindful of our students who are exiting cars at that time.
Our Book Fair has been another amazing success this year. It has been fantastic to see and hear all of our families enjoying the books that are on offer and it has been an awesome way to lead into our Book Week celebrations. We can’t wait to launch our Book Week celebrations with our Book Week parade on Monday 21st of August. This year, our Year 6 leaders will be leading the parade. They are so excited at this opportunity. Hope to see you all there.
This week our Consultative Committee met to finalise changes so that we comply with the new EBA that has been voted on and agreed upon. Beginning Term 4, our students will be finishing at 3.25pm Monday to Thursday and 3pm Friday. There will need to be further changes made in 2024 which will be communicated at the beginning of Term 4.
I will be taking some Long Service Leave from Monday 4th September until Thursday 19th October. I will be travelling overseas with my Husband. During that time, Jemma McVeigh will be Acting Principal and Caith Malone Acting DP. I thank them for stepping in during this time.
On our community links page, you will find an expression of interest to contribute to and purchase our school cookbook which will be made up of our favourite recipes! Sharing a meal always brings people together and allows us the opportunity to share stories, share our experiences and share any worries. We welcome all recipes from all cultures and backgrounds!
Have a wonderful fortnight!
School of the Good Shepherd
Address: 88 South Circular Rd, Gladstone Park 3043
Telephone: 9338 7686
School Office hours: 8:30am- 4pm