I hope that everyone is well-rested and eager for the adventures that lie ahead, as we step into a brand-new school year. It is with great pleasure that I extend a warm welcome to both our returning families and those who are joining the St Joseph’s community for the first time.

As we embark on the upcoming school year, there is an unmistakable sense of enthusiasm and anticipation in the air. Our dedicated staff have been working diligently to create an environment that is conducive to learning, growth, and, most importantly, joy.

To our returning students, welcome back! We look forward to the energy, creativity, and the vibrancy you bring to our school community. Your achievements and contributions continue to inspire us, and we look forward to sharing in your continued success this year.

To our new students and families, a heartfelt welcome! We are thrilled to have you as part of St Joseph’s and I hope that you enjoy it here as much as I do. As you settle in, please know that you have a community of supportive teachers, staff, and fellow students ready to welcome you with open arms.

This year promises to be one filled with exciting opportunities, challenges, and personal growth. Our commitment to providing a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment remains unwavering. We are dedicated to fostering a love for learning, critical thinking skills, and the values that will shape our students into well-rounded individuals.

Communication is key to a successful partnership between the school and our families. Throughout the year, we will keep you informed about important events, school updates, and opportunities for involvement through regular newsletters, our school website and various communication channels. Please make yourself known to your child’s teacher via popping in before or after school or via an email.  Our first formal opportunity will occur during the parent and teacher conversations Monday 19th and Tuesday 20th February.

As we embark on this new school year together, let us embrace the journey ahead with optimism, resilience, and a commitment to excellence. Thank you for entrusting us with the education and well-being of your children. I am confident that, with your support, we will make this school year one of growth, achievement, and lasting memories.

Wishing everyone a fantastic start to the school year!

Welcome Families Morning Tea

To begin our school year together all parents and carers are invited to morning tea on Thursday 8th February at 9am (or just after drop off) in the hall.

I would especially like to welcome all of our Foundation families and those families new to St Joseph’s.

Welcome to our New Staff Members

Bridie Moloney, Daisy Loft, Chloe McKenzie and Joshua Hales our new trainees.

Kate Foster, Isobel Everall and Heidi McSween who join our LSO team.

Katherine Howard (D3) and Rachel Creely (Foundation Drama).

Welcome back Clare Stacey who was on leave last year.

2024 Staff

Term 1 Staff Professional Development Days

Friday 9th February - Digest Your Class Day

This day will focus on Understanding the Autism Spectrum and other Neurodivergence facilitated by Dr Wenn Lawson and Jen Hawkins. Further time will be devoted to staff sharing information about children in a formal handover as well as preparing for necessary adjustments for inclusion for all children.

Thursday 22nd February - Structured Literacy

This year we are focussing our improvement around Literacy teaching and learning which is facilitated by DOBCEL staff. More information to follow.

Storm Damage

Our school was severely damaged by the storm in early January. The C5 classroom was extensively flooded, the ceiling and walls were damaged and water flowed into adjoining classrooms and offices affecting walls, flooring and cabinetry. 

I would like to pass on my thanks and appreciation to Mark Evans, Sharyn O’Bray, Pat Allen and Cathy Duynhoven who managed the clean up and coordinated the repair works. Also to our trades people who were extremely efficient and understanding of our need to have the Foundation classrooms ready for day 1 of the school year. 

Our staff (particularly the teachers of the classrooms affected) have been very understanding and flexible in altering their plans to organise their rooms.

Regional Parenting Forum “Bring Back the Fun”

The St Joseph’s school community is pleased to be hosting Andy McNeilly for a FREE regional parenting forum.

Andy McNeilly is an author, educator, family coach, and most importantly a parent of three kids. He has recently taken on the role of Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader at a school on the Bellarine and understands the challenges parents face in this current climate. For many years, Andy has been running simple and fun webinars and workshops to help parents create more connection with their children given the challenges of modern-day busy lives. He is passionate about helping others to build connected and loving families. He has written two books; Connecting with Your Kids and Connecting with Your Teens.

More information and booking information for this FREE event can be on the brochure below.

Assembly

Our first assembly this week will be led by our 2024 student leaders who will receive their badges and introduce themselves to our school community. All welcome.

2024 Student Leaders

Isaac Brown, Sibella Evans, Ava Gleeson Templeton, Rhianna Gibbons, Connor Greening, Roisin Hansford, Archie Harle, Logan Jones, Paddy McKane, Billy Main, Molly McNeil, Indiana Smedts and Vivienne Smedts

Chromebook Procedure

Following feedback from parents we have made an adjustment to our student Chromebook procedures. Families will have the option of taking the Chromebook home or leaving it at school in Year 5 and Year 6.  The ICT User Agreement will be sent home shortly which will include a field for families to indicate whether they want the Chromebook taken home or left at school.  All of the devices will remain at school until these agreements have been signed.

The children will be doing several activities on the safe and appropriate use of ICT at school and beyond. 

We also plan to run some family nights later in the year with the support of the Warrnambool Police with a focus on cyber safety.