Principal's Newsletter
Newsletter Thursday 19th October, 2023
We the staff of St Patrick’s acknowledge the traditional owners, the Kulin nations, of the land on which we learn and play.
We pay respects to the Aboriginal Elders, past and present, who are our teachers.
We thank them for taking care of children and country for countless generations.
Luke 11:47-54
You have not gone in yourselves and have prevented others who wanted to
Jesus said: ‘Alas for you who build the tombs of the prophets, the men your ancestors killed! In this way you both witness what your ancestors did and approve it; they did the killing, you do the building.
‘And that is why the Wisdom of God said, “I will send them prophets and apostles; some they will slaughter and persecute, so that this generation will have to answer for every prophet’s blood that has been shed since the foundation of the world, from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah, who was murdered between the altar and the sanctuary.” Yes, I tell you, this generation will have to answer for it all.
‘Alas for you lawyers who have taken away the key of knowledge! You have not gone in yourselves, and have prevented others going in who wanted to.’
When he left the house, the scribes and the Pharisees began a furious attack on him and tried to force answers from him on innumerable questions, setting traps to catch him out in something he might say.
Dear Parents, Carers and Guardians,
As you will have no doubt seen on the news, there is conflict in the region of Israel that has affected the lives of many people. It's important to approach this topic with understanding and compassion, keeping in mind that conflicts can be complex. There are differences of opinion and disagreements among people in the region. My hope is that efforts are being made to find peaceful solutions. What I would like to acknowledge and highlight, is the importance of empathy and understanding for all those affected.
Even though people may have different beliefs or backgrounds, it's essential to remember that everyone deserves to live in peace and safety. Let's think about how we can be kind and understanding towards others, even when we don't agree with them.
As we learn about the world around us, let's also remember the importance of kindness, understanding, and working together for a better future. In our own small ways, we can contribute to a world where everyone can live in peace.
Let us send our thoughts and prayers to the children and families affected by the conflict. May they find comfort and strength during difficult times.
Yesterday, our Foundation students for 2024 visited us again for their 2nd transition and they made rainbow fish, read stories and played some games. Next Thursday, the students will be having mini-specialist lessons in Phys Ed, Performing Arts, Japanese and Digitech. We look forward to watching them become a part of our St Patrick’s community.
God Bless,
Meg
Important Reminders
Friday 27th Octoer - Year 3 Fun day
Friday 3rd November - School Closure Day - staff will be participating in Professional Development around our Whole School Approach to Positive Behaviour.
Monday 6th November – SCHOOL CLOSED
Tuesday 7th November – Melbourne Cup Day
Wednesday 8th November – Students resume
Friday 8th December - Colour Run
2024 Planning
Planning has begun for the new school year. If you have a specific parent request for your child for the 2024 school year, this needs to be in writing to the Principal by Friday the 13th October at the very latest. I ask parents to be respectful when making these requests and to understand that no requests will be guaranteed. The process of creating classes is extremely complex, and the final decision rests with the principal. The students and their needs are what will be considered first and foremost.
If your child/ren will NOT be returning to St Patrick’s in 2024, please contact the office on office@stppakenham.catholic.edu.au at your earliest convenience.
2024 Enrolments
If you have a child beginning at St Patrick’s next year, please come to the office and get an enrolment form. If they are younger siblings beginning at St Patrick’s, you do still need to complete an enrolment form. If you know of any families living in our area and looking for a school, please tell them about us. If they wish to make an appointment to have a tour, they can contact the office on 5943 9000 or email us at office@stppakenham.catholic.edu.au
Church Building Project
Once again, St Patrick’s will enter another building project, however this time it will be our Church undergoing these renovations. This will commence at the beginning of September and there will be some changes to the way the Church car park is to be used by parents dropping off and picking up students each day. I ask all parents to use patience and remain calm as we navigate some alternative arrangements during the renovations. All changes will be clearly marked and staff will be available to help parents in the first few days of the changes. The main focus will always be the safety of our students and irresponsible behaviour and dangerous driving will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Thank you for your understanding in this matter. More information will be given as we get closer to the time. Please continue to check updates on PAM and the newsletter.
Dates for Term 4
Year 6 Camp: November 28th - 1st December
St Patrick’s Christmas Concert: Thursday 7th December at 5.30pm
Colour Run: Friday the 8th of December
Year 6 Graduation: Wednesday 13th December 6.00pm