Principal's Report
Dear parents and carers,
Week 3 of this term has seen us working hard across several different activities.
Our week began with the annual school photo day, everyone looked very smart in their winter uniform. We are looking forward to seeing the results of the morning in a few weeks’ time.
Thanks to everyone who came to school as a superhero last Friday, it was terrific to see so many making an extra effort with their outfit in support of Bear Cottage, a very worthy cause.
Update for Families on COVID-19 - St Joseph’s School and Catholic Education continue to take advice from health authorities in relation to COVID-19. The Catholic Education Office has a team that is actively monitoring the COVID-19 situation as it develops, paying particular attention to local hotspots and organising support for schools where required. St Joseph’s School is practicing all safe hygiene practices in line with government advice. We understand that the situation is fairly fluid, and we will communicate directly with you should there be any important changes in relation to our school operations in the coming weeks. We remind all families:
- If your child is unwell, they should not attend school.
- Please ensure that anyone who presents with COVID-19 symptoms in your family is tested.
- Parents should avoid routinely entering the school where possible but can attend scheduled school events and meetings with teachers where required (physical distancing and hygiene measures still apply).
Should you have any questions in relation to our school and COVID-19, please feel free to contact our office.
Public Speaking - We have been working in conjunction with St Mary’s School at Young to prepare for our inter school public speaking event for this year. In 2020, we will be conducting this event online via Zoom in Week 9.
Information about the event has been given to the children in Yrs. 2-6, they should be preparing their speech for our school-based event. Our public speaking will take place on 24/08 (Week 6).
Changes to routine - Thank you to those families who are keeping us informed when children are absent from school, or there are changes to the regular routine. Please make it your custom to check in at the office if your children are running late to school – we appreciate your efforts to do this.
The annual satisfaction survey of parents, students and staff will be conducted on behalf of all Catholic schools in the Diocese this term. The surveys are designed to gather feedback from parents, staff and students about our school and will be used to inform school improvement. Responses are confidential and individuals cannot be identified. The surveys will be launched via email on Friday 7 August 2020 using the email addresses supplied to the school.
In terms of our behaviour management, we are focusing on participating in all activities. This involves having a go at all activities that are available to us at school. Sometimes it is easy to say, “I don’t want to…” or “I don’t like that, so I don’t have to…”. Sadly, this is seen as an easy way to avoid trying out new activities. Whereas, a positive “can do” or “I can try this out” approach can open up chances to try out new activities and learnings.
Next week, we will welcome Chelsea Anderson to St Joseph’s. Chelsea will be working in Yr. 5/6 to complete her final practical component of her teaching degree. We are looking forward to working with her during the coming weeks.
Book Club – flyers were sent home last week, please finalise your orders by tomorrow.
Take care and stay safe,
