As Term 2 draws to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect with deep gratitude on the many moments of joy, learning and community spirit that have shaped our journey this term. From the many Assemblies, Community Prayers and Masses, which have held wonderful celebrations of our diverse and inclusive community; to the wonderful excursions and classroom experiences, for which we are grateful to have such a dedicated staff.
Last week, we celebrated with a special group of our students who had prepared for and celebrated their Confirmation as part of the Emmaus Catholic Parish Sacramental Program. Archbishop Patrick O’Regan lead the liturgy and showcased an incredibly comprehensive knowledge of saints and feast days. We look forward to being part of the final part on their journey through the Sacraments of Initiation, when they celebrate their First Communion.
We have also been blessed with the amazing sounds of our instrumental students at our Semester One Instrumental Music Concerts. We hit a new record, with the highest number of students performing in the concert series!
This week, student reports were released, offering a snapshot of the learning and growth that has taken place across our school over the last six months. These reports are a celebration—not just of achievement, but of effort, curiosity and progress. While the grades held in the reports can offer insight, what matters most is how we use this information to discern the next steps in each child’s learning journey- together in partnership. I encourage families to engage in rich conversations with their children about what they’ve learned, what they’re proud of, and where they hope to grow next. These conversations will prepare students well for our upcoming Learning Conferences, especially our Year 3-6 students who will lead this conversation with their teacher and parents/caregivers. I encourage families to book-in using the links found on Audiri.
This week, we were also privileged to host an incredibly successful Preschool Professional Learning event, which served as a pre-gathering for the National Reggio Emilia Conference beginning in Adelaide this week. Early years educators from across the region, and across different sectors, gathered to hear from our very own Adam Christie (St Thomas Preschool Coordinator), alongside esteemed speakers Professor Alma Fleet and Anthony Semann; both with whom Adam has recently published the book ‘Re-defining Planning and Assessment: Seeing Children Through Pedogogical Documentation.’ Their insights into rich assessment and child-centred documentation reaffirmed our commitment to seeing and celebrating every child as a capable, competent learner. (You may be interested in finding out more about the book on the Pademelon Press site: https://www.pademelonpress.com.au/product/redefining-planning-and-assessment-seeing-children-through-pedagogical-documentation/)
Another highlight of this week was our celebration of St Thomas Feast Day. The day began with a beautiful liturgy, followed by joyful activities in House Teams that brought students together in fun and aimed to inspire in them an even deeper sense of community. The day was also focused on our support of the Vinnies Winter Appeal. We were deeply moved by the generosity shown through gold coin donations, food items, and clothing—all of which will support our local Vinnies conference and the broader Vinnies Winter Appeal. Your kindness will make a real difference in the lives of those in need in our community.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish Mr Toby Priest the best of luck on his next chapter in the world of politics. Toby will be taking leave for the remainder of the year and the beginning of the next. It has been officially announced, that during this time, Toby will be running a campaign as a new Labour candidate for the seat of Morphett. While Toby is on leave, Mr Sebestyen Maglai will be teaching PE. We wish Toby all the best for this important work and will watch closely over the next nine months. (To find out more, please see the South Australian Government press release: https://www.premier.sa.gov.au/media-releases/news-items/labor-unveils-candidates-for-five-key-seats)
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the all-amazing Mrs Melissa Canil for her compassionate leadership as Acting Deputy Principal over the last five weeks. Melissa’s dedication and commitment to students, staff and families has truly been a strength for our community during this time. We wish Melissa all the best on her next adventure as Acting Deputy for Semester Two at St Mark’s College, Port Pirie.
We look forward to hearing all the stories of Belinda’s adventures upon her return at the beginning of next term. And as we head into a well-deserved break for our students and staff, I want to thank each member of our school community—students, staff and families—for the energy, care and commitment you bring to our shared mission. May the holidays offer rest, renewal and time with loved ones.
(And, don’t forget to read every day to enter our Holiday Reading Challenge!)
Go gently,
Paul Mensforth
Acting Principal
Social