St Mary's eNews

Week 6 Term 2


Principal's Message: 30 May 2025

Dear families,

Last weekend, we celebrated First Eucharist in our Parish. Our children’s reverence and preparedness were a tribute to both their families and teachers.

Thank you to Father Michael for celebrating such a beautiful occasion in the lives of our students and to Mr Freeman, who coordinated the ceremonies.
Our communicants will receive their certificates at Monday’s Prayer Assembly.

This week, John and I officially welcomed our newly appointed architects, Susan and Sofia from Kennedy Nolan, along to commence work on our new Masterplan. It was a productive meeting and set the scene for some exciting steps to come, the first one being a survey in which all families will be invited to partake. Stay tuned for regular updates.


We are noticing an increase in the number of children who are arriving at school either very early or very late. 

Please note that students are not supervised until 8:30am. If you need to drop your child off early regularly, you must access Camp Australia’s before-school care.

This late arrival is very disruptive, not only for the late student themselves, but also for their teacher and classmates. The children miss valuable time in the morning, socialising with their peers and preparing for their day before the bell, as well as vital information at the start of every day.

We will begin contacting parents of children who regularly arrive late to discuss how we can help improve punctuality.


Whilst on the topic of early morning class activities, I had Annabelle from Prep S share the incredible independent writing she undertook of her own accord yesterday.  She was not only able to read her work for me, but also articulated what needs to go into a sentence: one capital letter, one thought, finger spaces and a punctuation mark. I’m so proud of Annabelle,  but not as proud as she is of herself.  Look at that smile! 



It’s been a truly wonderful thing to see how engaged and how well our students are taking to the new phonics program we have undertaken in our Junior School. While our previous program was also successful, our teachers agree that UFLI has taken student learning to a whole new level.


We have had some parents express interest in having us run another session by Elaine O’Connor around children’s anxiety. We know that there is never one single time that suits everybody, but this time we thought we’d ask for input and choose the time of day that suits most. If you’re interested in attending the next session, please indicate here, your preferred time.


The next P&F meeting takes place this Tuesday at 7pm in our staffroom.

New members are always welcome.


The campaign to find Australia’s best teacher is once again underway.

We have incredible teachers at St Mary’s and I’d encourage you all to consider nominating one of my amazing colleagues.

You can nominate here or read more in the article in today’s eNews.


Have wonderful weekend. Stay warm,




Respect • Responsibility • Resilience • Courage

 



Community News

In this week's Community News you will find information about the Church bulletin, Emmanuel College, Tutoring and more Tutoring- If you are looking for tutoring, have a look.

Emmanuel College News

Vu Holiday Program The upcoming program is running from the 7 - 11 & 14-18 of July. The early bird $50 promo ends June 9.

Williamstown Community and Education centre

Church Bulletin


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Aussie of the Month - May

Congratulations to our Aussie of the Month students - Nicte, Emily and Freya.  Click here to find out why they are so wonderful!

Parent Teacher Interviews

Dear Families,

Semester 1 Parent / Teacher Interviews will be held in week 11.

Interviews will take place on:

  • Monday 30th  June from 1.30 – 8.00 pm with Classroom teachers
  • Tuesday 1st July from 3.45 – 5.30 pm with Classroom teachers

 

Please note that students will be dismissed at 1pm on Monday 30th June and at the regular time of 3.15pm on Tuesday.

 

To book an interview please go to https://www.schoolinterviews.com.au/code and use the code 8stn4. 

 

For further information please refer to the Operoo note sent on May 21st.

 

If you require assistance with the booking process please contact the school office.

Regards

John Hein

 


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Visual Art Exhibition

On the Tuesday afternoon of the parent teacher interviews, 1 July 2025, we would like to invite you upstairs into the TRI Centre. You are invited and welcome to come and view your children's amazing visual art from Semester One.
I am proud of the work that they have done; it looks amazing and should be shared and celebrated by the community! Looking forward to seeing you then. 

Regards
Carla Lolicato  
Visual and Performing Arts Specialist

 


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Australia's best Teacher

Nominations are now open for parents, students and community members to nominate our teachers who inspire our students to flourish each day.

Nominate a teacher who inspires you and your family by clicking here.
MACS is proud to be an official partner for the third year in a row, celebrating exceptional teachers across our community.

Shortlist nominations will be announced Saturday 21st June.

 


Respect • Responsibility • Resilience • Courage

 



No Canteen

The canteen will NOT be open the following days:
Friday 6th June 
Friday 13th June 
Friday 20th June 

 


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Craft Club

Our crafters have been enjoying upcycling donated CDs to create a striking backdrop. Miss Hall will be concluding her time with Craft Club this week, Mrs. Richards will continue and is excited about our upcoming projects. 





 


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School Closure Dates

Monday 9th June 
Tuesday 10th June 
Monday 21st July
                     No school for students

We are also in the process of arranging a 2 day conference for staff sometime in September.
The days are yet to be confirmed.

 


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2025 Trivia Night

St Mary's P&F invites all Parents to this year's school Trivia held on Friday 25th JULY.
Save this Date in your Diary

Doors will open at 7pm

Location will be Altona Sports Club

We have SOLD half of the Trivia Night tickets and we haven't even told you about our epic raffle and auction prizes available on the night. You must attend the evening to enter raffles and auction items.




Calling out for raffle prize donations for our Trivia Night. 
 
If you're workplace or contacts are in a position to help us deliver some epic prizes we would love to hear from you. This includes redballoon vouchers, Bunnings, Dan Murphys, Endota Spa, local services, and products. 
 
All fundraising on the night will go towards school improvements.
 
Please reach out to P&F parents or email us with your donation details at  parentsfriends@smaltona.catholic.edu.au

To purchase your tickets click here.

THANK YOU to the following businesses who have kindly donated PRIZES to our TRIVIA NIGHT


                          

Please support these local businesses when considering making a purchase.
 
Thank you.
P&F Team.

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Bunnings BBQ - Saturday 28th June

Our world-famous Bunnings BBQ and Bake stall is back this year and we need your help.

You can help in many ways - but first , save the date in your dairy on Saturday 28th June. 
 


BUNNINGS BAKE STALL.
Baked goods can be delivered to the school office [2 days before the event] or delivered to Bunnings, Altona. Saturday 28th June from 8.30 am - 4.30 pm. Goods must be individually or bundle-wrapped and presented for sale & include a list of ingredients. Review School comms for recommendations. Any questions email Katrina k.krol8@live.com.au


Should you wish to make a donation towards our Bunnings BBQ expenses (sausages, sauces, drinks, bread, onion) follow link
 


For more information please click here.



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School Disco - Friday 20th June

St Mary's P&F invites ALL students to this year's school Disco held on Friday 20th JUNE.
Dress to party in neon, GLOW OR white! 

Put this date in your diary NOW!

Purchase your tickets here.
 
 
 
An Operoo will be sent out with more details regarding parent help before and during the event. Your support makes these events possible and brings our community together.



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