As members of this community, we seek to be of service to others and to exemplify the teachings of Jesus in all we do and say. Whether this is in how we treat each other in the playground, help a classmate when their work is challenging or support the St Vincent de Paul organisation, we have a responsibility to help others. Such activities can give us much satisfaction, knowing that the lives of others may be enriched by our actions, however small they may be. In the coming days, we will begin our collection of items for the Winter Appeal and from previous years, I know that primary students and their families will do what they can to support those in need in our community.

In a similar way, the Year 6 Service Groups which were borne out of the Leadership Day in Term 1, have enabled the students to explore opportunities to make a difference around the school and wider community.  I have been pleased with the creative ideas from the groups and the way that they have worked with Mrs Blaxland to action these ideas and I thank Mrs Blaxland for her work in supporting these students.  

There are examples of positive, caring and compassionate behaviours in our school day.  Earlier this week I watched the interactions between some Year 6 students and younger students in the library and it was a delight to see.  The cooperation and friendship seen in classrooms when students are learning is another example, as is the scene when a child is hurt on the playground, and they are escorted to the teacher by a throng of concerned friends.  This week, the focus of our assembly will be the need to always consider what is kind in thought, in word and in deed and act in such a way to all people.  

Last week we started our weekly breakfast club and it was a huge success.  Thanks to Mrs Blaxland for her organisation of this.

Thank you also to the teachers for the time they have invested in providing feedback to parents during Parent/Teacher Consultations.  We trust that you have found them useful.  Our work as educators is enhanced when we work in partnership with parents.

Finally, congratulations to those students who have competed in recent sporting events, either at Granite Belt or Darling Downs level. It has been wonderful to hear of their successes and to know that they have represented themselves and their school well.

With God's blessings

Sarah Yates
Assistant to the Principal Primary & Teaching & Learning