From the Principal

Dear Parents and Carers,

We continue to live in ever challenging times. The war in the Ukraine is both devastating and challenging for us all as we try to make sense of why this is taking place.

I am aware that having conversations with children about war can be very difficult. I have added a couple of website links which may be of help to parents if you are after support in having these conversations. You can also do a Google search on the topic which will give you access to many helpful sites also.

Save The Children

https://www.savethechildren.org/us/charity-stories/how-to-explain-conflict-ukraine-to-children

Family Education

https://www.familyeducation.com/life/wars/talking-kids-about-war-explain

In these unprecedented times, I invite you to join in solidarity through prayer and practical ways to support our global family in desperate need, particularly our Ukrainian brothers and sisters as well as those affected by the recent devastating floods in Australia.

'Hope is being

able to see that

there is light

despite all the darkness'

- Desmond Tutu

Reconciliation

Next Thursday 31st March our Year 3 students will receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. These children have been deepening their understanding of Reconciliation through our Sacramental program over the past few weeks, which included participating in a Reflection Day last Friday. I ask that you please keep these children in your thoughts and prayers.

'Greening' our School - Gardens for Wildlife

Last week I toured the school with Monash Council representatives, our student leaders, Kim Goddard and Chris Kakavas, a parent representative, to look at possible future planting opportunities around our school. We look forward to hearing back from them very soon, with details of specific recommendations for 'greening' our school.

2023 Prep Enrolments

We are currently receiving positive interest from prospective families wishing to enrol their child at COHR in 2023 or 2024. We have had a couple of Open days already and our next Open Day is next Wednesday 30th March. Please advise your friends or neighbours who may be interested in a tour of our amazing school.

A reminder please that if you currently have children at COHR and have another child due to commence next year in Prep we would ask that you submit an enrolment form at your earliest convenience. A hard copy can be collected from the office, alternatively a soft copy can be downloaded from our school website.

A Touch of Footy

If their AFL team wins on the weekend, we are inviting students (and teachers) to wear a touch of their footy team with their school uniform. It may be a pair of socks, a beanie or a jumper. School uniform is expected to be worn and a piece of footy gear added on. Mrs Cowan has declared she will be wearing a red and white scarf now every Monday as the Swans are sure to always be winning! We will see.

Kinder and Childcare Visits

Last week our amazing Performing Arts teacher, Jon Bode, visited 3 Bees childcare centre on Ferntree Gully Road to offer a fun and engaging drama activity. Each child received a bookmark with our school details as well as a notification to parents of the game Jon played with them.

Next Tuesday Jon will be visiting Guardian Childcare for another similar visit.

Hopefully, as Covid restrictions begin easing we will also recommence our Buddy Reading with these centres as well as with St John's Kinder.

Thank You to Uniform Shop Clean Up Fairies

Our Second Hand Uniform Shop is looking fantastic, with thanks to the parents who quietly and neatly tidied up all the generous donations. Please if you would like to buy some uniforms, the Second Hand Uniform Shop is open everyday. All items are $2.

Condolences

Condolences to the Speranza family on the passing of Joe's Mother.

Please take time to read through this week's newsletter which details some of the terrific learning taking place at our school.

Take care, keep safe everyone

Brendan Welsford

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