Dear Parents

Thanks for your support this week as we once again headed into remote learning. We had a small number of students to support at school and now that we are very familiar with procedures this was completed successfully. I am sure you all agree that we are hopeful of not having to do this again. Our staff at St Mary’s have been a wonderful support to the students both at home and at school during this week.

Today I had a meeting with our School Captains and House Captains. We worked together to identify some areas to support one another, to fundraise and to be involved in sporting events and general assemblies and celebrations. Our captains this year are:

School Captains- Sam Nowak and Ashlyn Harrington

Red House- Charlotte Sage and Jed Forsyth

Green House- Milla Hunt, Billy Donahoe and Gus Weatherley

Gold House- Lily Missen and Sam Phillips

It must be said that the way all of the students conducted themselves was outstanding. They were a credit to themselves and their families.

It is fantastic to see all of the students settle back into school life. Our building with our three PODS is working very smoothly and the children are engaged in all of the activities on offer. It must be said that a calmness and strong work ethic is being observed. All of our teachers and LSO’s are working collaboratively to ensure that a strong rate of progress and support is evident.

On Wednesday we celebrated Ash Wednesday. Unfortunately due to restrictions this was not observed at school. Ash Wednesday is one of the most important holy days in the liturgical calendar. Ash Wednesday opens Lent, a season of fasting and prayer. It takes place 46 days before Easter Sunday, and is observed by millions of Catholics and Christians. The practice of Ash Wednesday includes the wearing of ashes on the head. As the ashes are placed on the forehead the Priest will say ‘Repent and believe in the Gospel’

The Easter story is an excellent example of how scripture can be recontextualised so our students can be engaged and understand the messages in the modern world.

We congratulate all of the students who participated in our Swimming Carnival last week. Next Wednesday, 24th February we will have 14 children represent the school at the Heyfield and District Swimming Sports. Thank you to Michael Todd who organised the administration of the day.

I hope you all have a fantastic weekend.

Jason