There is a saying ‘practice what you preach’. Sunday’s Gospel was about Jesus telling us to do just that. He saw the ‘Holy’ men of the church telling everyone what to do and laying down the laws of God but not actually doing what they told others to do themselves. Jesus actually told the people not to do what they saw the ‘Holy’ people doing. They weren’t being holy. They were pushing their own importance and status instead of serving the people and being good role models for them. This challenges us to reflect on ourselves. How much do we ‘walk the talk’?

Today Mr Burns, the office staff and our Kindergarten teachers hosted all our Kindergarten 2024 students and their families for two group Orientation Sessions. It is an honour to be part of the beginning of an educational journey that will last another seven years at our school and then another six at secondary school. The students and parents all did very well learning all about ‘big school’ with our current parents asking very helpful questions. The Kindergarten parents were very impressed with our new group and we are looking forward to getting to know everyone better. I know you will all make them feel welcome too.

I have noticed some students wearing necklaces and large earrings. It is acceptable for your child to be wearing a crucifix for example under their uniform but please ensure it is on a very light chain, not leather or chord, that will break easily. The children have play equipment and play all sorts of games at school and things around the neck are a serious choking hazard. If they break easily though, they can be worn safely. Similarly, girls can only wear very small plain studs or very fine sleepers that will break if caught. I have seen some terrible injuries to ear lobes when earrings have been caught. Our rules are for safety as well as for representing our school with pride.

The staff are currently reviewing this year’s Annual Improvement Plans, part of our Continuous Catholic School Improvement diocesan initiative, and are studying the previous Cyclic Review Report and various forms of data to develop our plans for 2024. I will share them with you one they are finalised.