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It's great to be back!

I am delighted to return after an invigorating and enriching experience at the 2023 Australian Primary Principal's Conference in Hobart. The theme, "Refreshing Leadership and Inspiring Futures," allowed me to develop as an educational leader by attending keynote sessions and workshops covering various aspects of leadership, and fostering an inclusive school environment. 

Apart from the conference, I also enjoyed exploring the beautiful state of Tasmania with my husband, Michael. The rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and warm hospitality of the locals made it a memorable experience. We cherished every moment and returned refreshed.

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our Assistant Principal, Mrs Sally-Anne Croker, for stepping up and diligently assuming the acting principal role during my absence. The smooth functioning of the school during this period is a testament to Mrs Croker's dedication, expertise, and commitment to the well-being of our students and staff.

Furthermore, I am immensely proud of our outstanding team of educators and support staff who took on extra responsibilities and ensured the uninterrupted progress of daily activities. Their diligence and hard work are commendable and exemplify the spirit of collaboration that makes St Mary's such a nurturing learning environment.

During my time at the conference, I also had the opportunity to reflect on the strengths and achievements of our school community. Our collective efforts have yielded tremendous results; witnessing our students grow academically, socially, and emotionally is heartening.

It feels great to be back, and I look forward to catching up with you all over the remainder of the term.

Northern Region Public Speaking Competition

Congratulations to the primary students who participated in their class 'speak-off' over the past few weeks; it can certainly be a daunting task. I am sure you would all agree, however, that it is an excellent skill for students to learn and practise. Congratulations to those who gained selection for our School Public Speaking Competition. From all accounts, the speeches were very well structured and delivered.

After staff deliberation, the following students were selected to participate in the Northern Region Public Speaking Competition at St Gregory's in Queanbeyan on Friday, 18 August, at 9.30am.

Year 3 - Max Strode and Harry Frost

Year 4 - Grace McCormack and Jacob Hogan

Year 5 0 Sophie Culley and Lucas PLumb

Year 6 - Chloe Bensley and Addin Grove

Further information will be sent home with these students this week.

Kindness Project

Term Three started with a combined Northern Region Professional Learning Day with Dr Caroline Thompson from Mercy Partners in Brisbane. Caroline spoke particularly about kindness and what we can do to make the world a kinder, more compassionate place. This term, the students have started with a kindness project; each day, they concentrate on spotting and doing kind acts. They are journaling and sharing their experiences. We have also focused on ‘Bullying no Way’, which is also supported in our Peer Support program this term. The day will incorporate the National Day Against Bullying and Violence on 18 August.  

Morning Club- Monday to Thursday only

A reminder that our Morning Club is only offered Monday to Thursday 8.00am to 8.40am.

Please do not drop your child off before 8.40am on Fridays as there is no supervision.

The School Explorers  - School Readiness Program

Our first School Explorers session will commence next Friday, 18 August. This year we will be doing morning sessions from 9.30am to 11.00am.

Our first session 'Solve it!" will be supported by Year Five, Mr Edwards and Mrs Lowe in the Multipurpose Hall. All families are asked to sign in and wait at the school library. If you are unsure of where that is, please go to the school office, and you will be directed. 

God Bless,

Mrs Sarah Lowe