Principal's Message - 15th July 2021
IMPORTANT!
At the time of publishing this newsletter we are on the verge of another statewide lockdown. At this stage we do not have any other details, so please keep an eye on your emails, PAM and the SZapp for any updates. This afternoon your children have brought home their pencil cases, and a book in preparation of an official lockdown announcement.
We thank you for understanding and patience during this difficult time.
Dear Parents
Welcome back as we commence Term Three! I hope that all families enjoyed a relaxing holiday and are looking forward to the term ahead.
Yesterday our Grade 4 students travelled to Phillip Island for their camp. They are having a fantastic time and it is wonderful that they have the opportunity to get away and enjoy time together. They were exceptionally excited as they departed.
At this stage we are planning for all camps and excursions to continue, however, we remain at the mercy of COVID restrictions. Let’s hope that these do not have to change as the term progresses and the children get to enjoy the activities.
Reports / Family Learning Conversations
Reports were distributed to families on the last day of Term Two. I hope that you have taken the time to read these reports as they will be discussed further at the Family Learning Conversations (previously Parent / Teacher Interviews) next week on Tuesday the 20th and Wednesday the 21st of July. It is essential that you take the time to attend these meetings as strong lines of communication between home and school are important for your child’s development.
Due to restrictions the FLC’s will be conducted as a Google Meet, however, parents will still be required to book a time using the following booking information; Log on to schoolinterviews.com.au ( Link ) and use code j9fyd. The Google Meet code will then be sent to you by the teachers on Monday the 19th.
2022 Enrolments
If you know of anyone looking to enrol their child at St Pat’s for 2022 please encourage them to contact the school Office on 5943-9000 to book a tour.
Assembly
Assembly will be at 2.30pm this Friday. Parents are welcome to join us via the following link Click to view assembly
Staffing News
Over the holiday period Mrs Jane Baxter (Music) resigned due to personal reasons. On behalf of everyone I thank Jane for all of her efforts at St Patrick’s over the years and wish her all the very best for the future.
We are currently advertising for a music teacher. The music program I will continue being covered by a CRT teacher until a suitable replacement is organised.
Sacraments
The dates for the Sacraments are as follows;
Communion
Saturday, 17th July @ 6:00pm
Sunday, 25th July @ 10:30 am
Confirmation
Thursday 22nd July @ 7pm - Parent Workshop, compulsory for 1 parent to attend. No children!
Saturday, 21st August @ 2:00pm & 6:00pm.
COVID Restrictions
I remind parents that the following procedures are in place for the safety of all;
- Masks are required to be worn by parents at all times when in the school.
- Parents wishing to come into the grounds to drop off or collect their children must scan the QR code on the way in and wait out the front of the classroom. Please do not enter the rooms and social distance whilst waiting. You must limit your visit to less than 15 minutes, gates open at 3pm at the end of the day.
- Parents waiting for children in the pick-up lines need to ensure that their children know which carpark to go to.
- If you do park your car you must walk over and collect your child. Please do not call for your children to walk across to your car unaccompanied.
- Meetings with staff are by appointment only. Any parent that is going to be in the school for more than 15 minutes needs to sign on and complete the COVID form at the Office.
- Please communicate with staff via phone or email.
- The Office is open if required, however, please wear a mask and observe the density limits (maximum of 6 people). It is preferable to phone or email if possible rather than come to the Office.
- All extra cleaning and hand hygiene that was in place is still being adhered to.
- Please do not send food items to share with others when it is your child’s birthday as they cannot be handed out.
- If your child is sick, or displaying symptoms, please keep them at home. Children that present as sick or displaying symptoms at school will be sent home and asked to gain a medical clearance or negative COVID test before they return to school.
- Bubble taps are operational at school.
- An ample amount of sports equipment will be provided at school so we ask that students do not bring equipment from home.
Important Dates for Your Diary
- Tuesday 20th / Wednesday 21st July – Family Learning Conversations
- Wednesday 4th Thursday 5th Friday 6th August – Grade 5 Camp Sovereign Hill Ballarat
Regards,
Simon