Term 1, Week 4

From the Principal

Welcome to the second newsletter of the year! It has been wonderful to see all our students and families settling in so quickly. One of my highlights this fortnight was watching one of our brand-new Reception children display such independence and confidence. With a cheerful goodbye to dad in the courtyard, they skipped off to the playground without a second glance, while it was dad who needed a little comforting that morning!

Parent Information Evening

A big thank you to those who were able to attend our recent Parent Information Evening. It was a fantastic opportunity for our class teachers to share key information about classroom setups, routines, and the exciting learning ahead for this year. For those who couldn’t make it, we have created a handout of the information, which will be emailed to you.

Safe and Inclusive School

As discussed during the Parent Information Evening, at St Brigid’s, we are deeply committed to maintaining a safe and inclusive school environment. We have reviewed both our Positive Relationships and Anti-Bullying policies. In line with this, we will be sharing regular updates with students and parents on fostering positive relationships and addressing bullying.

One important reminder: our school policy is that parents should not enter classrooms after 9:00 am and before 3:00 pm. Unfortunately, we’ve noticed that some parents are still walking through the office space to classrooms up to 9:30 am or ‘popping in’ before 3:00 pm. This poses a duty of care concern, and to help us keep all students and staff safe, we will be placing signage in the front office to remind everyone of this policy. At the end of the day, gates open at 2:50 pm, and parents are welcome in the school yard. However, we ask that you please refrain from entering the classrooms. If you need to take your child out of class before the school day ends, you must sign them out at the front office, and they will be called over to meet you.

Thank you for your cooperation and continued support in helping ensure St Brigid’s remains a safe and inclusive space for all.

Annual General Meeting (AGM)

I am excited to invite all parents to our St Brigid’s School AGM on Thursday, March 20, 2025. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with others, engage in meaningful discussions, and learn about what’s planned for the year ahead. It will also be the first chance to contribute your ideas toward shaping our strategic plan (2026-2028), which we’ll be developing later this year.

Doors will open at 6:30 pm for nibbles and conversation, with the AGM beginning at 7:00 pm. As two of our School Board members will be departing, this is also an opportunity for you to get involved and join the Board. More information will follow soon.

Volunteers

Research shows that schools with strong volunteer programs benefit students, schools, and parents alike. I was thrilled to see our volunteer numbers increase from 1 to 5 by the end of last year, and one of my goals this year is to continue expanding this group. Volunteers have helped with excursions, and some have gone on to gain valuable experience, pursue further education, or even secure job opportunities.

If you’re interested in volunteering, you’ll need to complete the free 2-hour online Mandatory Reporting (RRHAN-EC) training, submit a volunteer declaration, and hold a current Catholic Working With Children Check. To support you through this process, Ms Bonnie will be hosting two free sessions in the Community Hub: Monday, February 24th at 2:15-2:45 pm and Thursday, February 27th at 9:00-9:30 am. If you can’t make these sessions, volunteer packs are available at the front desk, and we’re happy to assist you in completing the process.

Flourishing Hearts

We are delighted to welcome back our youngest members, the Flourishing Hearts children. Due to the ongoing renovation project, Flourishing Hearts will take place in the Community Hub/OSHC space for this term (and possibly Term 2 as well). These children will also be joining us during recess and lunch, and they’ll participate in fitness and other activities across the school.

Thank you for your continued support as we make St Brigid’s an even better place for everyone. I look forward to seeing you at the AGM and working together to make this a wonderful year!

In Love, Peace and learning

Paula Burns

Pricipal