Dear Parents, Friends, Staff and Students of St Catherine’s,
Welcome
When the new Reception students join us as they have for their transition visits over the past two weeks, I am filled with a sense of hope for their future. It is sobering to think that they will graduate from school in 2038! The teachers of Reception do most of the hard work and I acknowledge the incredible work that Jess Barolo and Josie Silver do in supporting these students and their families through arguably the biggest step they will make in their school journey. I enjoy meeting with the parents and students over the months and sometimes years in the lead up to them joining us, and while I enthusiastically emphasize our virtues including our strong values, caring community, and high standards I am always pleased to see them experience these first-hand once they commence. St Cath’s is a special place. Welcome to our new students Willa, Chloe, Emilia, Louis, Charlie, Sage, Luella, Alby and Luca.
Sacramental Program
Congratulations to all the students who have undertaken their Confirmation Sacrament: Harry, Quinn, Conor, Elliott, Toby, Scarlett, Alice, Liam, Oliver, Harper, Holly, Toni-Mari and Alexander. Well done! This marks a significant step in your faith journey as you deepen your commitment to your Catholic beliefs. We are proud of your dedication, courage, and openness to God's call in your life. May the Holy Spirit continue to guide, strengthen, and inspire you as you grow in faith and love. Thanks to Fr Fred and Cathie Oswald from the parish and thanks to Carla Thomas for their support of our students
Netball carnival
The netball carnival this week was a highlight and no surprise that most of our students chose to take part. High participation of students in events like this doesn’t happen at all schools but it is testament to the fact that our students feel safe and connected that they participate so readily. I have seen this regularly during my time at St Cath’s most notably with the School Musical last year when all Year 5 and 6 students had a part, and events like debating where we have 7 teams from Years 5 and 6. In addition, it was no surprise to see so many parent volunteers. Thank you for your support. Thanks also to Mr D and the staff for their support in organising, training, supervising, and supporting the students.
Debating
Last week our students enjoyed their last debate for Term 2. Congratulations also to all our debating students for dedicating their time and effort to extend their learning through this extra-curricular activity.
Liturgy for the term
Our final liturgy was notable for the way the students prepared thoroughly but participated enthusiastically. Thanks to the staff who have guided students in their participation in liturgies and Masses this term, and thanks to Fr Fred for his support - the students are grateful for his pastoral leadership as am I.
Semester 1 Student Achievement reports
Student reports were made available this week via SEQTA. The information contained in this report is a summary of your child’s achievement this year. Reports are provided twice per year and are one of several ways that the school communicates your child’s achievement and approach to learning. Reporting provides an opportunity for students, parents, and teachers to maintain authentic conversations and partnerships focussed on learning.
I encourage parents to talk through the report with their child and highlight their strengths. You may find it helpful to discuss one or two areas to work on in the second half of the year and the following are suggested questions that can guide these conversations:
- What success can you celebrate?
- What did you find challenging with but managed to persist?
- What goal/s might have you set yourself for Term 3?
Should you wish to discuss any element of your child's progress, please make a time to meet with your child's teacher. Our next formal parent learning conversations are scheduled for Term 3, week 8 and will be an opportunity to talk with your child's teacher about you’re their ongoing progress throughout Semester 2.
Student Leaders
As Semester 1 draws to a close I would like to thank all our student leaders who have represented their classes with a sense of responsibility and pride. I have been very impressed with the engagement and leadership of our School Captains.
I have also been pleased with our SRC (Student Representative Council). Thanks to Ayla, Levi, Harriet, Alexander, Harry, Eva, Ariana, Nellie, Angus, Sophie, Tilly, Sam, Conor, Josie, Mia, Joseph, Liam, and Archer, who have shown through sharing their points of views on a range of different topics as well as using problem solving skills to ensure our school is a safe and happy environment, caring for the common good. As you may be aware the students serve on the SRC for 2 terms, so I thank them for their contribution. We remain committed to nurturing student voice and agency and providing opportunities for students to learn to lead.
Safeguarding Policies and Child Protection Curriculum Information for Parents and Carers
The Catholic Archdiocese of Adelaide values the dignity of all God’s children and takes seriously our role in safeguarding their wellbeing and protection both within the Church environment and communities in which they are raised. The Archdiocese strives to maintain a child safe culture which recognises the welfare and safety of children and young people as paramount.
The following documents are provided for your information.
- Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy (Archdiocese of Adelaide)
- Keeping Safe: Child Protection Curriculum information for parents and carers
These documents are available along with other Policies, Reports and Guidelines on our school website: https://www.stcaths.catholic.edu.au/our-school/policies-reports
Pupil Free Day in Term 3
Monday 21st July is a Pupil Free Day as Staff will be attending an East Region Catholic Schools conference focused on Student Agency and Learning. Camp Australia OSHC will be available 8am-4pm.
Students return to school on Tuesday 22nd July 2025.
Best wishes for a safe and happy holiday break.
Kind Regards,
Mark
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