Principal's Update - 17th April

Welcome

Dear Families,

Welcome back to Term Two! As we return from the Easter Break, refreshed and rejuvenated, we notice Autumn's golden hues and some cooler weather. We are eager to embark on a new term filled with learning, growth, and shared experiences. We look forward to the adventures that await us, both inside and outside the classroom, as we nurture curiosity, foster connections, and embrace the opportunities that come our way. 

Exciting News - Our Playground is in!

Over the holidays, our school community received a thrilling surprise with the installation of a brand-new playground! Bursting with vibrant colours and innovative equipment, it's already become the talk of the town. Children and families eagerly anticipate endless hours of laughter and adventure as they explore the slide and the intricate climbing structures. This playground isn't just a place for fun; it's a hub for building friendships, fostering creativity, and creating cherished memories for years to come. We thank our builders for their dedication to getting the job done and ready for Term Two.

School Athletics Carnival

Our students are busily practising in preparation for our School Athletics Carnival, set for Thursday, 18th April, at Llanberris Reserve. Students will be bussed to the event, parents are encouraged to pick their child/ren up prior to 3 pm. Please accept the permission sent out on PAM and indicate if your child needs to be bussed back to school, as we need to finalise bus numbers ASAP. This event will be a wonderful opportunity for our students to gather in their house groups and participate in various events. Thanks to those parents who have registered their intent to support the day. Please note that due to some changes in arrangements at Llanberris, the podium is no longer available to schools.

School Photos

Our school photos will be held on Tuesday, 23rd April. MSP has emailed families their login details so they can access their online portal. If you are an existing family, it will be the same as last year. Students are to wear their full winter uniform with their woollen school jumpers.

If you have any queries about logging in to purchase your photos, please contact MSP directly at 5333557.

School Uniform

As the weather gets cooler, we would like to remind all families that our school has now transitioned to our winter uniform. It is important that we all take pride in our uniform and appearance, as it reflects the values and identity of our school community. Wearing the correct uniform is also a way of showing respect for ourselves, our peers, and the school, and helps to promote a sense of unity and belonging. Thank you for your continued support in making this school one we can all be proud to be a part of.

ANZAC Day Thursday 25th April

As we return to school, we also want to take a moment to acknowledge and reflect on the significance of Anzac Day, on April 25th, in week two of our term.

Anzac Day is a day of remembrance for all Australians and New Zealanders who have served and died in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. It is a time for us to pay tribute to their bravery and sacrifice and to honour their memory. We will invite our Student Leaders to represent St Columba’s at both the Ballarat Dawn and 11:00 am services. 

Mother’s Day Stall

To celebrate our Mother’s and the Special women in our lives, we will hold a Mother’s Day Stall on Friday, 3rd May. Gifts will be $5 each, and families will be invited to attend the stall together to purchase the perfect gift for their mum. Children have the option of cash on the day or the option of paying via QuickCliq. Please sign in to your QuickCliq account (via the SZapp as you would for Lunch Orders). Scroll to events, and you will note the Mother’s Day Gift Stall, where you can place your order. Gifts are limited to one per child. Cash purchases will be accepted on the day.

Staffing News

Melissa Wood will continue until mid-term before beginning her maternity leave and we are currently in the process of shortlisting to appoint to cover her position. 

Keely Bruty will commence her maternity leave in Week Three, and we are delighted to announce that Bianca Anstis and Sally Latchford will team together to cover LG 4 for the remainder of the year.

We are currently in the process of finding a replacement teacher for Learning Group 12. We appreciate the support of the 5/ 6 team and Cleta Forrest, who has agreed to support a smooth transition for the students over the first 3 weeks of this term while we work through a recruitment process.

We also wish Anna Stott well for an amazing adventure as she and her family commence their trip around Australia over this term. We appreciate Alison Thorpe for stepping back into assist and continue to support LG 6 along with Lucy Marquand. 

Our goal throughout has been to provide as much consistency as possible as well as securing the best educators for our students.

2025 Sibling Enrolment

A gentle reminder that if you have siblings that will be starting at St. Columba’s next year, that you must complete the Expression of Interest form via the DOBCEL website.

Important Dates