It is certainly starting to feel like Christmas in the air. All families are juggling work commitments, Christmas parties and end of year events as well as all the day to day activities that we work through.

For staff prayer this morning before school some staff gathered to listen to a Catholic Meditation. The key difference between a general meditation and a Catholic meditation is that when we meditate in a secular way we try to think about nothing, to clear our mind. A catholic meditation draws us closer in relationship with God. This morning we reflected on the love God shows for us through the many blessings in our lives as well as God’s presence with us always. 

Like many of us at this time of year, I found myself easily distracted during prayer with all the things I had to do for the day ahead and had to keep reminding myself to focus on God in that moment. Through prayer, we can show gratitude for our many blessings, but also arm ourselves with strength and courage to face whatever the day may hold.

As we are in the season of advent, I encourage you to find time in your busy schedule to reflect on the hope, peace, love and joy that is all around us. Sr Miriam has been preparing and leading liturgies in infants classes and primary classes in recent weeks. It has been wonderful learning all about the season of advent from Sister Miriam.

Our Year 5 and 6 students arrived back from camp this afternoon. I had the pleasure of attending camp yesterday and spent the day with the staff and students. I wish I could have stayed longer as we were having too much fun. I would like to thank and acknowledge the work of Mr Mindzas, Mrs Hockey and Mr Hoctor in their planning and preparation for a fun and safe camp adventure. I think the teachers might be asleep before the students tonight! Photos of the camp, taken by the teachers will be collated and shared with the students through google drive.

Carols on the Green

A reminder that Carols on the Green is only a week away! Teachers and students are busily practising their carols and preparing some decorations for the evening. We can’t wait to share in the excitement of Christmas with you on the night.

As this is the last newsletter for the Term, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you a very merry and safe Christmas break. A big thank you to all the staff of St Patrick's who work tirelessly for the best schooling experience for the boys and girls. To the support from you as parents and particularly the P&F who volunteer their time and energy for the benefit of our students.

On a personal note, I have really enjoyed my first year at St Patrick’s as principal, building relationships with the students, parents, staff and parish. I look forward to continuing to work with you as partners in your child’s education in 2025.

POSITIVE BEHAVIOURS for LEARNING/SOCIAL and EMOTIONAL LEARNING (PB4L/SEL)

Our PB4L/SEL focus for Week 9 and 10 will be: ADVENT.

In the explicit teaching lessons, the expected behaviours taught will be:      

                                                             Be h A ppy           

                                                    Make goo D choices

                                                                 Lo V e one another

                                                          Be saf E

                                                     Be respo N sible

                                                  Be respect T ful

PB4L Data
It is with pride that I inform you that in the last two weeks 48 students were given Citizenship, Merit or Library Awards whilst there were 13 incidents of Inappropriate behaviour recorded. Please strive to act respectfully, responsibly, and safely girls and boys. Thank you!

We would very much appreciate you discussing these weekly focuses with your children and reviewing the expected and non-acceptable behaviours in our endeavour to see that St Patrick’s is a more respectful, responsible, and safe learning community for all.