Dear Parents/Carers,

Welcome to another busy week at St Mary’s. Last week I joined with other principals across our Archdiocese in Bowral. The aim of the meeting was to discuss the way forward after the departure of our previous executive director of Catholic Education Ross Fox. It was a pleasure to meet the new executive director of our Archdiocese Mr De Carvalho. Mr De Carvalho has put together a very impressive resume and I look forward to his leadership and support in the future.

This week Year 3 and Year 5 will begin the various NAPLAN tests. These will be conducted on Wednesday to Friday. Please be aware that these tests are only a point in time assessment and by no means tests all aspects of your child’s education.

Many thanks to those who attended the reconciliation information evening last week. If you registered for the Sacrament a compass event for the $25 payment will be created. Father Hiliary has requested that you prioritise Mass each week leading up to the Sacrament and the preparation lessons. We appreciate the difficulties this may cause as many may already have prior commitments. Please let me know if you are unable to attend. The first of the four weekly preparation lessons will be on Wednesday afternoon at 4pm in the Parish centre.  

At 6pm this evening the executive of the Community Council will meet to discuss differing issues related to the improvement of our school and to hopefully appoint a new secretary. A big part of the Community Council is the operation of the school’s canteen. As outlined last week, we have decided to trial opening on Wednesdays. There will be a new and exciting menu. Casey Judd, our canteen manager is very excited and enthusiastic to make this extra day a success. We look forward to your support.  Below is just a small selection of the yummy treats that are on offer!!!

Remember my door is always open.

Principal

Damian Collins