Remote Learning Week 8

Congratulations to all of our students, parents and staff for the continuation of Remote Learning this week. It has been wonderful to see us settle into a new mode of learning so positively. I know that everyone involved is giving their very best, and that is all we can ask. 

This week I would like to share with you the story of St Julian of Norwich (1343- after 1416). During her lifetime, Julian experienced the first (1348-50) and second (1361-62) waves of the Black Death Plague, which historians estimate to have killed 40-60% and 20% of the population.

St Julian spent much of her life living in seclusion, becoming an anchoress at the age of thirty and she is the first known female author to have written a book in English. St Julian was a female mystic who received revelations from God and one of her most famous quotes, which we can contemplate today is 'All will be well, all will be well, in all manner of things will be well.'

Well-being Wednesday

A shout-out to all of the students and families who embraced Well-being Wednesday this week. We trust it helped recharge the batteries and that you had a chance to enjoy the beautiful weather. Well-being Wednesday will become a permanent fixture in our weekly Remote Learning schedule.

Happy Father's Day

To all of our Fathers, Grandfathers and other special male role models of our students, on behalf of the staff, I would like to thank you for the important part you play in the life of our students. Your support, love and guidance impact the children in a positive and important way. We would like to wish you a very happy Father's Day on Sunday and we hope you get to spend it with the little ones in your life that love you so dearly.

For those who would like to purchase a gift for the special man in your child's life, the Year 6 Fundraiser - Father's Day Mystery Gift is available on QKR! and with contactless pick up from the Old Hall until Friday afternoon, 4pm.

Australian Teacher Aide Appreciation Week

This week we celebrate and acknowledge our wonderful Classroom Support Assistants (CSA's), formerly known as Teacher Assistants. Our CSA's, Elizabeth, Gwenda, Rie, Brad, Shauna, Tory and Stephanie, work tireless and generously to support the staff and students at St Mary's and for them, we are truly grateful!

Information regarding payment of Term 3 fees

Catholic Education will again support families who have been financially impacted as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in Term 3. The position of Catholic Education is that no child will be denied a Catholic education because of financial circumstances.

Where your family is experiencing financial stress due to job loss, being stood down, reduction in work hours, business downturn or closure resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, full or partial fee relief is available for Term 3. To apply for fee relief, you are asked to indicate the level of assistance you feel you need at this time by completing a one-page COVID-19 Fee Assistance Request Form. Your level of fee support will be confirmed as soon as possible.

Families whose employment situation has not been affected by COVID-19 can support the school by continuing to pay school fees as they fall due. This will support our school to continue providing quality learning in a connected community that nurtures and cares for each other.

Your family is an important part of our school community. Your financial circumstances will not compromise the place of your children at our school. If you are experiencing any difficulties please do not hesitate to contact me and I will ensure the matter will be dealt with in a confidential manner.

NAPLAN Reports

We are expecting that individual student results should arrive at school anytime from Monday, 6 September, noting there may be a slight delay for NSW schools due to the Sydney lockdown. As soon as these arrive they will be posted to ensure all parents receive their child’s report before the end of this Term. 

Vale Pauline

We are deeply saddened at the passing of our dear friend, and St Mary's Parishioner, Pauline Taylor. We pray for her daughter Ann, her family and her loved ones. May Pauline, good and faithful servant of Jesus Christ rest in peace.