Principal's Update - 12th July

Welcome

Dear Families,

Welcome to Term 3. We hope you all enjoyed your winter break and gearing up for an exciting new term ahead. We wanted to take a moment to extend a warm welcome back to each and every one of you. We are thrilled to have our students and their families return to St Columba’s for Term 3 and are looking forward to some exciting developments with our building and landscape projects.

First and foremost, we want to express our sincere appreciation for your unwavering support and collaboration throughout the previous term. The challenges we faced were unprecedented, and your commitment to your child's education and our collective effort was truly remarkable. Together, we have shown resilience and adaptability, and we have no doubt that we will continue to navigate the upcoming term with the same determination. We appreciate your support as we have pivoted throughout this building project and particularly now as we enter the tendering stage. 

Term 3 promises to be a period filled with new opportunities, growth, and success. Our dedicated team of educators has been working diligently over the break to prepare an engaging and enriching curriculum, along with new and inviting learning spaces that will inspire and challenge our students. We have planned a range of exciting activities, projects, and events that will not only foster academic excellence but also encourage creativity, critical thinking, and character development.

During this term, we will continue to prioritise the well-being and safety of our students. Rest assured that we are committed to providing the best possible educational experience for your child while maintaining a nurturing and supportive atmosphere.

To maximise your child's progress and ensure effective communication, we encourage you to maintain an open line of dialogue with your child's teachers and our administrative team. We believe that strong partnerships between home and school are crucial for your child's success, and we value your insights and involvement in their educational journey.

As we embark on Term 3, let us embrace the sense of renewed energy and optimism that the winter break has provided. Together, let us foster an inclusive and supportive community where every student feels valued, respected, and empowered to achieve their full potential.

Please mark your calendars for our student led conferences in Week 8 & 9 at the end of the term. These occasions will provide an excellent opportunity for you to engage with the teaching staff, gain valuable insights into your child's progress first hand, and discuss any questions you may have.

Term 3 Reset

To commence Term 3, our classrooms have reset spaces and discussed positive expectations to support a happy learning environment for the term ahead. Being kind and thinking carefully about the impact of words and actions is paramount for our children and ourselves as we navigate the complexities of changing communities and the pressures on society in general.

Using kind words and speaking positively about our school in the community can also have a profound impact on fostering a supportive and uplifting environment. When we choose to use words that are encouraging, respectful, and empathetic, we not only uplift the spirits of others but also create a culture of positivity and unity. Our school becomes a place where students, teachers, parents, and the community at large feel valued and appreciated. By emphasising the strengths and achievements of our school, we build a strong reputation and inspire others to actively engage in its growth and success. When we speak positively about our school, we contribute to a sense of pride and belonging, attracting more resources and opportunities. 

Ultimately, the power of kind words and positive communication can transform our school into a beacon of excellence and ensure its lasting impact on generations to come.

Sad news

It is with great sadness that we write to let you know of the passing of Tanner McCarthy’s Mum, Shelly McCarthy, on Tuesday 4th July at 9 pm. Shelly has battled illness over the years and continued to deteriorate in recent months. Shelly died peacefully, surrounded by her loving family. Shelly’s funeral will be held this coming Friday 14th July at 10:30 am at Peter Tobin Funerals in Doveton Street, Invermay Park. We thank our wonderful community for your care and support of the family over the years. Please continue to keep Marc, Keely and Tanner in your prayers as they navigate this difficult time.

Parent Helper's Induction

Early next term we will be running a parent/classroom helper’s induction course for anyone interested in volunteering within the school. This will be a great opportunity for those who have the capacity to support student learning and would like to experience the day to day running of the school. For anyone interested please add your details to the form that can be found here. The session will be held on Thursday 20th July at 2:30pm at school.

Reminder: Sacraments - Reconciliation and First Eucharist (due today 12th July)

A note from Lia at St Columba's Parish...

Thank you to those who completed the online form for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Eucharist in Term 3 for their child/ren.

As a reminder, your child's attendance with a parent or guardian is required for the Monday evening preparation sessions (5:45-6:30pm), as well as the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Sacrament of Eucharist.

Your child's preparation will be enriched by their involvement in weekend Masses. You may choose to attend on Saturday evenings at 6pm at Our Lady Help of Christians Wendouree or 10am on Sunday mornings at St Columba's Ballarat North.

To secure your registration, please drop off the $50 registration fee and your child's (Baptism-Confirmation) trifold (not your stole) to the St Columba's Primary School office. You must submit these by July 12, 2023, Wednesday. Our first preparation session will be on July 17, 2023, Monday at 5:45pm, St Columba's School.

Important Dates for Term 3

Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact our office.

Kind regards,

Bambi Afford & Shaun Mohr
Co-Principals