Dear Families,

Kinder Orientation

Last Friday we met our new students that are joining our Kindergarten class for 2025. The students were very excited to be spending time with their peers and experiencing what St Michael’s has to offer. We look forward to the students second orientation session on Monday 2nd December 9:15 am-12:00pm. Students can be dropped off to the classroom and will need fruit break, morning tea, a water bottle and a hat. Our new Kinders will have the opportunity to meet their Year 6 Buddies and our current Year 5 students are delighted to be welcoming our new Kinders.

Dedication to improved Literacy Practice at St Michael’s

Last Monday, Gillian Forrester - Teaching & Learning Officer Catholic Education Office, visited St Michael’s to see InitiaLit teaching in action. InitiaLit is an evidence-based, whole-class literacy program providing all children with the essential core knowledge and strong foundations to become successful readers and writers. InitiaLit is a three-year program, covering the first three years of school (Foundation to Year 2). In the context of a Response to Intervention framework, InitiaLit is a Tier 1 program, designed to be delivered to whole classes by classroom teachers. Gillian was impressed with our teachers’ programming and ability to deliver effective literacy lessons. She gave feedback to our K-2 teachers on how to refine our program delivery and engagement. Thank you to our teachers for their ongoing diligence to improving their practice.

Remembrance Day

Please join us on Monday the 11th of November in the Church at 2:30pm as we will be commemorating Remembrance Day. This special day marks the end of World War One in 1918. On this day we acknowledge and remember with thanksgiving those who made a huge sacrifice for us in time of war. It is also a day we can all dedicate ourselves to the cause of justice, freedom and peace; and for the wisdom and strength to build a better world.

Personalised Plans and Parent/Teacher Handover meetings

Teachers are currently updating Personalised Plans and meetings will take place in the next fortnight. Later this term, parents will receive an emailed copy of their child’s current Personalised Plan. These plans will include their child’s goals and the adjustments we have in place. Please read the attached advice for Parents & Carers regarding Personalised Plans as the Plans have been changed and updates made.

Teachers in collaboration with Robyn O’Rourke are beginning to make transition plans for students that require additional adjustments. We will make contact shortly to organise meetings and handover discussions.

Families not returning in 2025

Please let us know if your family will not be returning to St Michael’s in 2025 by completing the attached form. We are always sad to see families leave us, but we know that this is the time of the year when postings, career change, house moves etc often occur. This prompt notice allows us to have the correct information for 2025 planning.

Many blessings,

Bridgette McCann

Acting Principal