PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE
Matthew O'Brien, Principal
Dear Parents, Guardians, Staff, Students and the wider St. Joseph’s Primary School Community,
St Joseph the Worker
Pope Francis has proclaimed a “Year of St Joseph”, running from December 8, 2020 to December 8, 2021, with the theme: Show yourself a father and guide us in the path of life.
Prayer for the “Year of St Joseph”
Silent and well-known carpenter of Nazareth, model of workers.
By the work of your hands, you contributed to the work of the Creator.
You earned your living, and you provided for the needs of the Holy Family.
Intercede for all workers, especially for the unemployed,
in the difficulties of their daily lives and in their anxieties for tomorrow.
Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit,
may they use their strength and talents to make visible God’s new creation,
to offer a concrete service to society, and to earn wages worthy of their efforts.
With confidence and trust we make this prayer through Jesus.
Amen.
Welcome Back
Welcome back to Term Three. I hope that everyone was able to have a restful and fulfilling holiday and that all of the children are ready to have an enjoyable term.
St Vincent De Paul Winter Appeal (Mini Vinnies Pyjama Day)
Thanks to everyone who supported this important fundraiser. Our school community is very proud to be aligned with the great work of our parish St Vincent De Paul team. We raised $1,731.20.


Proposed Crossing Areas And School Zones
An important campaign is underway to create a safer community for our children. A 40km school zone is proposed between Hopetoun Rd and King Street. Many of our students cross Raglan Parade in this dangerous area. The proposal also includes pedestrian crossings at the corner of Fitzroy and Botanic Roads and another at Hider and Ardlie Streets. The council are doing a count of children who cross in these areas over the first weeks of this term to determine the necessity for these pedestrian safety measures.
School Review
In the last week of Term 2 our school undertook the external validation of our school review. The panel headed by Dr Mary Lovelock met with children, parents and staff members to validate the extensive report written by our school. The feedback was most positive from the panel and future improvement foci were determined. Although we are still awaiting the final report the school improvement foci will focus on the following areas:
- Learning and Teaching
- Catholic School Culture
- Leadership Capabilities
ReLATE - Wellbeing
On Monday we undertook the ReLATE (Reframing the Learning and Teaching Environment) professional development. This day was facilitated by MacKillop Family Services who will partner with us over the next three years in this project. The day focussed on the relationship between wellbeing and learning. In short: if children feel safe and happy their learning opportunities will be maximised. Also, that the wellbeing of teachers impacts upon the health of their classrooms.
PSA And Classroom Coordinators Morning Tea
An invitation is extended to parents from our PSA and Classroom Coordinators, to meet for a coffee and chat. The date is Wednesday 14th July, 10am at The Pavilion, Viaduct Road, Warrnambool. It would be great if you could 'bring a friend' from St. Joseph's parent community. Could you please reply via the attachment to indicate if you are able to attend.