Principal's Page

Principal's Message

Dear Parents and Carers,

This weekend is the first Sunday of Advent and the beginning of a new liturgical year for the Church. The central theme of every Advent is the expectation of the coming of Christ into our lives at Christmas. It is a time when, through ritual, prayer and reflection, we focus on Christ’s presence in our daily routines, work and relationships. 

Sunday’s Gospel tells us to “Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come” (Mark 13:33). These words are a great reminder during Advent to ‘keep awake’ to the presence of Jesus who comes to us. Too often we fall asleep to that ever-loving presence because our minds are consumed with all that life brings us. This Advent, may our children come to know and be more aware of that very precious gift of God, with them, every moment of their lives.

As our students begin to get excited about Christmas, we hope to focus them on the presence of Jesus in their lives each day, in preparation for Christmas. I encourage all parents to connect with the parish through this season of Advent. And together, parents, parish and school, we can form in the children a deeper understanding of the true meaning of Christmas and life.

I would like to share a song on the Advent theme that I wrote and recorded several years ago. I hope it helps you to share the Advent journey with your children.

This week we focus on the artwork and reflection created by Neve D for the Christmas Story Art Exhibition and Competition. Thank you Neve for a wonderful reflection on Mary and her journey towards the birth of Jesus.

Hope Within Reach

Neve D

Year Six

A single light shining triumphantly in the obscurity. One star radiating enough light for the entire world, signalling the birth of Christ. 

The angel Gabriel had told her the news of her selection to become the mother of our saviour. Mary was excited and proud that her actions had been noticed by God. As realisation grew however, she began to feel the pressure and weight of the burden. The Lord had chosen her among all women to be the mother of Christ.

God guided her, filling her with spirit and belief showing her the way of the truth and the light. Filled with reassurance and strength to take on the overwhelming task, she began to emerge from the depths. As the light pulled her towards the surface - here she began to see God calling to her in the form of a star. 

Her emotions were no longer mixed or worried, but assured and strong. By having faith, trust and loyalty in God, Mary was guided by the light to be the best she could be, not being tempted by worry or uncertainty. Having faith in God, let Jesus into our world and into our hearts.

For all things at St Joseph’s, give thanks!

Jen Charadia

Principal

2020 Inter-Diocesan Christmas Story Art Exhibition Launch

Keeping with tradition, the 2020 Inter-Diocesan Christmas Story Art Exhibition Launch will take place on the First Sunday of Advent, Sunday 29 November at 12:30 pm, with a pre-recorded YouTube video being made available via the link below.

We are very excited that St Joseph's has an amazing total of 5 students represented in this exhibition.  Student exhibitors and their families and the whole school community are invited to join in the launch.

The Christmas Story Art Exhibition and Competition is a wonderful opportunity for members of our school community to explore the true message of Christmas. 

The Christmas Story Virtual Art Gallery will go live the week following the Launch and will be available on the Sydney Catholic Schools Website. 

View the 2020 Inter-Diocesan Christmas Art Exhibition Launch 

from Sunday 29 November

Keeping Children Focused In Term 4

As this term progresses the children will become excited about the approaching Advent and Christmas seasons. It is very important that the children remain focused and settled throughout Term 4. When the children begin to bring Christmas cards, candy canes and the like to school too early they tend to ‘tune out’.

It is for this reason, and the fact that waiting is a part of our Catholic tradition within the season of Advent, that the children may begin to bring Christmas cards, candy canes etc. for their classmates from the beginning of Week 10 – Monday 14 December.

Student Messaging

A gentle reminder that no student should be messaging their parents during the school day. If your child should send you a message please remind them and ensure they understand that they need to speak with their teacher.

At school, staff need to be the first port of call for students to ensure their needs are attended to and their safety. This is particularly true with regard to home arrangements.

Please contact the school office should you need to get a message to your child.

Thank you so much for your support for this request, it is very much appreciated and will encourage your child to do the right thing with technology and build independence.

School Handbook

Principal Awards and Merit Awards

The following students will receive their Principal Awards at our afternoon assembly on Friday 4 December 2020.  

Please note this will be our last Principal Awards for the year.

Acknowledgement to Country

St Joseph's Bulli acknowledges and pays respect to the Dharawal people past and present, the traditional custodians of the land on which our school is built.