Dear Parents and Carers,

There is so much to celebrate as we come to the end of Term Two. Once again we have had many opportunities to come together as a community and acknowledge the wonderful things about our school. This was really evident with all the parents and friends that supported our Athletics events over the last two weeks, our school Disco, gala days and other special events that bring  our community together. An enormous thank you to the many people who make these events a huge success, particularly our volunteers who are often working hard in the background ensuring that food is ready, and everyone has a great time. These events are not possible without your generosity. 

To end the term the school will return to our beautiful St Mary’s Star of the Sea Church on Friday for the Mini Vinnies Commissioning Mass. It will be a triumphant return after several years of whole School Masses in the hall. This church is a very special and sacred place in the hearts of our St Mary’s school community, as we recognise the kindness and generosity of our school Mini Vinnies team. Please join us if you can! 

Over the last week, we have held Parent teacher Interviews and it was heartening to see so many parents took the time to come and meet with their child’s teacher. Having a face to face conversation enhances our home/school partnerships that are essential for good learning. Thank you to our parents for your continued support and the value you place on your child’s education and wellbeing. The staff of St Mary’s are dedicated and committed to the learning and wellbeing of every student and I would like to take the opportunity to express my gratitude for their work, effort and enthusiasm in everything they do. 

As Term Two comes to an end, we are bidding farewell to Mrs Ashleigh Hedger from Year Six. Mrs Hedger and her husband Luke are expecting their first child very soon. I know we will all miss Mrs Hedger, especially Year 6, we wish her a wonderful time as she welcomes and looks after her own baby. Replacing Mrs Hedger is Mrs Lisa Kelly, who has become a familiar face around the school, Mrs Kelly has been getting to know the Year 6’s  over the past few weeks and will be a wonderful addition to our community. 

In Semester Two, Mrs Peters will be reducing back to teaching four days a week Monday - Thursday so she can ensure that she is continuing to recover from her health concerns last year. Mrs Daniella Cooper will be taking Year One on Fridays, the children are very familiar with Mrs Cooper and she will ensure that Fridays are fun for everyone. I’m also pleased to announce that Mrs Chloe Cerff and Mrs Ann-Marie Wilson will be joint acting Religious Education Coordinators for Semester Two. This will not affect Year 5’s learning time with Mr Harding continuing to teach two days on Year 5. Congratulations to Ann-Marie and Chloe on these significant leadership positions. 

We will be holding a Pupil Free day on Monday the 17th July, staff will be upskilling on Professional Learning. On Thursday, 20th July we will be celebrating NAIDOC Week as this year it falls during the holidays. This year’s theme is ‘For our Elders', we hope that you can join us for a great celebration. The children have been working on some special dances and songs for the day, as well as some beautiful portraits of the special elders in their lives which will be on display.  

Wishing everyone a safe and joyful holiday break. A reminder to take time to stop, recharge and spend quality time with family and friends. We look forward to seeing you again in Term Three.

Yours in partnership

Laurinda Nelson