Dear Parents and Carers

“Live in gratitude and thank your creator by enjoying your life.”

Ronald Rolheiser, Sacred Fire

Last week I wrote about Ronald Rolheiser’s 10 commandments for mature living. I would like to spend the next 10 weeks exploring each of his commandments. The first one I have quoted above, and is concerned with gratitude. Rolheiser believes that gratitude underpins all other virtues, including love. He writes, “The holiest person you know is the most grateful person you know.” He goes on to say that “…even love finds its basis in gratitude.” It is no one’s job to take care of us, and the fact that people do, should be the basis of great gratitude. There is much that we can be grateful for, even during these trying times.

Confirmation Information Night

Last night we held our Confirmation Information Night, in conjunction with Holy Trinity Primary School. Our REC, Stephanie Burns, led the evening with Emily Capper (REC, Holy Trinity) and Fr John and Catherine Grinsell-Jones from the parish. I would like to thank Steph, Emily and Fr John for all of their organisation and preparation, and for their support of our Year 6 students during this very significant part of their lives. Undergoing the sacramental program with Holy Trinity is also an excellent way to underline and reinforce the relationship between the two parish schools.

Maths Olympiad

Next week the next instalment of the Maths Olympiad takes place. All students in 5/6, and a number in Year 4, will undertake the competition, which consists of 5 questions to be completed in 25 minutes. They rely on reasoning abilities and number sense, but the actual Maths is not difficult. It is another step in the children’s growth in confidence in being able mathematicians.

Peer Mentoring

This week, the teaching staff have commenced the Peer Mentoring program. This sees all teachers in the school pair with a partner of their choice, with whom they collaborate and receive feedback, about teaching. I am also participating in the program. It is an important aspect of the profession’s ongoing commitment to growth and best practice. My thanks to all staff for their commitment and support.

Have a wonderful week with your families.

Best wishes

Cameron Johns

Principal