The Gospel last Sunday, John 13:31-35, reminds us that when Jesus spoke to his disciples after sharing a last meal with them, he emphasised the importance of love, stating, "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another."

This message resonates strongly within our school community. Love and kindness are the foundations of our values, guiding us in how we interact with each other daily. As we nurture our friendships and relationships, let us remember that showing love can take many forms—through encouraging words, acts of kindness, and being there for one another in times of need.

Let’s embrace this commandment and strive to show love in our actions, whether in the classroom, on the playground, or at home. When we love one another, we not only reflect the teachings of Jesus but also create a community that upholds respect, empathy, and compassion.

I am attending the Association of Catholic School Principals in NSW Conference this week. Mrs Christine Nunes is leading the school in my absence. 

Attendance - Arrive to Thrive

I would like to thank our families for your ongoing commitment to ensuring your children's regular attendance at school. I’m observing a positive trend in improved attendance, and this collaborative effort significantly contributes to our students' academic and social success.

I also want to take this opportunity to highlight the importance of full and punctual attendance. While I acknowledge that occasional late arrivals or early departures are sometimes unavoidable, consistent partial attendance can negatively impact your child's learning.

Arriving late means students miss opportunities to connect with their friends, listen to class instructions, introductions to topics, and initial activities. This can lead to difficulties in understanding the lesson, requiring them to catch up and potentially causing them to feel stressed or behind. Leaving early means missing summaries, homework explanations and opportunities to ask clarifying questions.

Research indicates that even being just 10 minutes late daily can result in a student missing a significant amount of learning time over the school year.

Consistent lateness or early departure can establish negative habits that may extend into adulthood, affecting their future education, career, and social connections.

I understand that mornings can be busy, and I appreciate your efforts to prioritise timely arrival and full-day attendance. Here are some tips that may help:

• Establish consistent bedtime and wake-up routines.
• Prepare for the school day the night before (pack bags, lay out clothes).
• Allow ample time for the morning routine to avoid rushing.
• If work schedules conflict, explore carpooling or other transportation options.

I value our partnership with you in supporting your child's education. If you are experiencing challenges in ensuring your child's full and punctual attendance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

School Hours

Lord God,

We thank You for Pope Leo XIV.

Grant him wisdom, strength, and a loving heart

to guide Your Church in truth and unity.

Protect him, inspire him, and fill him with Your Spirit,

that he may serve as a faithful shepherd to Your people.

Through Christ our Lord. 

Amen.