Our school is  a place of faith and learning

“From the first moment that a student sets foot in a Catholic school, he or she ought to have the impression of entering a new environment, one illuminated by the light of faith, and having its own unique characteristics. The inspiration of Jesus must be translated from the ideal into the real. The Gospel spirit should be evident in a Christian way of thought and life which permeates all facets of the educational climate”. 

Dear Parents and Families,

We have enjoyed a very settled start to the term and it is great to see the children enjoying each other's company and sharing their holiday stories.

As you are aware, Mrs Jodie Ware has been seconded as Principal of St Thomas’ and will begin at the start of the 2025 school year. I am delighted and confident she will be a wonderful asset to our school community. Having worked alongside Jodie as a colleague for many years, I know that she brings many skills to share with you all.

We are anticipating a visit in November. Jodie will have a chance to meet staff and students. As the year continues, there will be a number of opportunities for “Handover" before Jodie transitions into her new position at St Thomas’. You are very welcome to say” Hello” if you cross her path.

Our Term is a busy one, with Junior Athletics on Monday, October 14th, 2024, our Year 6 Swimming beginning in Week Three, the Colour Run, School Concert preparations, Graduation and many other events taking place. We remind you to check your emails and the PAM dashboard regularly for reminders of upcoming events.

Uniform

Please know that all students are asked to be in their Summer Uniform by Week Three. All students will need to wear their school hats and are encouraged to do so next week if they have it available. Please know that black socks are not a part of the daily school uniform or sports uniform.

Morning Drop Off and Pick Ups

We remind families that the school day begins at 8.55am and ends at 3.15pm. Country bus students leave at 3.10pm.

Please remind your child about your expectations for walking and riding to and from school.

We ask you to discuss the end of day arrangements to avoid any uncertainty for your child or children.

At the end of day, we ask parents entering the school on Guthridge Parade to use the admin gate if arriving before 3.15pm. The Gumnuts Gate will not be opened until 3.15pm. Thank you.

The Raglan St gate will be closed at 3.30pm and children will be ushered to the office at this time.

Communications

Teachers are available in their classrooms from 8.45am. If you need to have a lengthier chat with your child’s teacher, we ask that you arrange a mutually convenient time. Teachers are happy to receive email communications, however, they may not be responded to immediately. They will be followed up as soon as practicable.

We ask all families to check the PAM platform for important dates and events. This is our main communication platform and we encourage all families to use it. If you have not downloaded the APP and need assistance, please feel free to ask office staff. 

Reconciliation

This term, we have a number of children receiving the sacrament of Reconciliation. This is a beautiful sacrament that acknowledges God's forgiveness and never ending love for us all.

We keep these children in our prayers.

Baptism

We also congratulate a number of children who were baptised during the school holiday period. 

Congratulations to Jacob, Claudia, Raffaela, Lincoln, Ryan and Holly.

We thank families for supporting their children throughout their preparation. We are committed to supporting them and nurturing their faith journey.

Anita & Staff

2024 SCHOOL TERM DATES

Thank you to all our tuckshop volunteers!

Time: 12.35pm - 2pm

Please be reminded that the canteen now closes for over-the-counter sales from 1.25pm. This allows students time to finish eating canteen items before returning to class.

 If you need to swap your allocated day, please contact another volunteer to make arrangements. The office should only be contacted as a last resort.

We have a number of items available in the second hand uniform shop. To purchase or check out what's available please contact Anna Baynes on 0419117649.

A Special Report: Healthy Study Habits

In today's world, where distractions are abundant and the pressure to excel is high, guiding children to develop healthy study habits is more important than ever. As students aspire to achieve academic success, the cornerstone of that achievement lies not just in their intelligence or drive, but in the study habits they cultivate.

It's essential for students to recognise that good study habits aren't merely about spending extra hours hitting the books. It's more about quality over quantity and having a more balanced approach. Emphasising the value of a routine is essential. Consistent study times establish a sense of structure and discipline, turning studying into a natural part of their daily routine rather than a burdensome task.

Additionally, how students approach their study sessions is equally important. Taking regular breaks is a crucial part of this process in maintaining focus and preventing burnout.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, and consistent physical activity are indispensable elements that will significantly impact your child's ability to study effectively. Fostering these healthy habits is one of the most valuable gifts we can offer children, paving the way for a lifetime of learning and achievement.

This Special Report will help you support your young person as they embark on studying for exams.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to your special report:
https://sttsale.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-healthy-study-habits-au