Respect • Responsibility • Resilience • Courage

The ceremony was a moving tribute, held in the quiet stillness of the early morning, allowing time for reflection on the significance of the occasion.

During the service, we observed a minute of silence and listened to the Ode, as well as the National Anthems of Australia and New Zealand.

Representing our school with pride and respect, the captains laid a handcrafted poppy wreath beneath the eternal flame. This wreath symbolised our school community’s gratitude and remembrance of those who fought for the freedoms we enjoy today.

It was a meaningful experience that deepened our connection to history and allowed us to show our appreciation for the courage and dedication of all who have served.

Respect • Responsibility • Resilience • Courage

Term 2 has kicked off brilliantly, and as the weather  starts to change we have some changes to the canteen.

Our senior student leaders will be selling icy poles & bags of chips for $1 each lunchtime from Monday to Friday. 

All proceeds will go towards supporting the development of our exciting new ninja playground.

Thank you for your support in helping us make this fundraiser a success and for giving our students a fun way to stay cool this term!

Respect • Responsibility • Resilience • Courage

When used appropriately, they can support engagement in learning and reduce feelings of overwhelm in the classroom.

However, when fidget toys are widely available to all students, they can quickly become a source of distraction rather than support. We have observed that, without clear purpose or guidance, these items are often used for play, trading, or competition, which can disrupt learning not only for the individual student but for others around them. By limiting their use to students who genuinely benefit from them as part of a structured plan, we can ensure they remain an effective tool rather than a novelty.

 
This approach also allows teachers to better monitor and support students who rely on these tools. Fidget items are introduced thoughtfully, with clear expectations and ongoing review, so they continue to meet the student’s needs. Our goal is to create a calm, focused learning environment for all students, while still providing appropriate, evidence-based supports for those who need them most.

For this reason, at St Mary’s we are asking that only students who have been identified as requiring a fidget as a tool and/or are on a Personalised Learning Plan (PLP) can use them. 

We are limiting fidgets to include simple items that are silent and not prone to breaking/creating a mess. Students will be able to have one fidget available at a time but are able to bring in alternatives to swap out at a suitable time.

Our classroom teachers will be talking to all classes to ensure that a common understanding on who, when and what fidgets are to be used.

We appreciate your understanding and support in helping us maintain this balance.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Kind regards

Cathy Sims 

Learning Diversity Leader

csims@smaltona.catholic.edu.au

Respect • Responsibility • Resilience • Courage

The Victorian Premiers’ Reading Challenge is now open, and we’re excited to be taking part!

All students from Prep to Year 6 are welcome to join in.

The number of books read can be varied for everyone's needs.

All children who complete the Challenge will receive a certificate of achievement signed by the Victorian Premier and former premiers.

To learn more about the Challenge, visit Premiers' Reading Challenge | vic.gov.au

To register your child, please email me with your child's name, year level and class name at blycke@smaltona.catholic.edu.au

Happy reading! 

Thanks 

Brenda lycke

Literacy Leader

Respect • Responsibility • Resilience • Courage

Attached is the Open Day flyer, which includes a QR code for registration, or you may use the following link: https://www.msj.vic.edu.au/visit-us/open-day-registration

Attached is the Open Morning flyer, which also contains a QR code for registration, or you may use this link: https://www.msj.vic.edu.au/visit-us/open-morning-registration

Respect • Responsibility • Resilience • Courage

Respect • Responsibility • Resilience • Courage