From the Principal

Dear families,

I am writing to you this week from a very windy Hobart where I am attending the Australian Primary Principals conference. This is a gathering of school leaders from across Australia and New Zealand who meet to learn together and to share the good news and challenges of primary education. 

A notable presentation from the first was given by Antarctic Explorer, James Cartrission. He recounted the incredible challenges he faced during his daring expedition to the frozen continent sharing the struggles and triumphs of navigating treacherous terrains, enduring extreme weather conditions, and embracing the unknown. Through his experiences, he drew poignant parallels to the challenges faced by school principals in their roles as adaptive leaders, guiding young minds into uncharted territories.

It’s not very often that we can come together with like-minded people who share similar roles, to hear and learn from each other. Whenever I am afforded the opportunity I am reminded of how lucky I am to be working in a system that supports my values and beliefs. While school life is something we all have in common, we all form different understandings of what an effective day at school might look like. For some people, school is hard and for others it’s a breeze. For some of us school is a social gathering while for others it can be daunting to negotiate our way around each day. Regardless of our experiences, I hope that our school is a place of welcome and acceptance for all. Our staff work hard every day to build an environment where learning is fostered whether it be academic, social, spiritual or physical. Every child counts in our school and every child and family helps to build the community of St Patrick's. 

Upcoming 3-Way Chats

Bookings for our 3-Way Chats are now available via PAM. The 3-Way Chats the 7th & 8th August. Our booking system will close on Friday 4th August.

School Closure Day

Monday 21st August is a school closure day as our staff engage in professional development. Looking ahead to term 4, we also have Friday 17th November for a curriculum/planning closure day. 

Wishing you all the very best for the week ahead.

Kind regards,

Ben Shields