Welcome back to school after the Easter holiday. I hope that all our families enjoyed a restful time and that the children returned to school refreshed and raring to go! An especially warm welcome is extended to our newest members of the St Joseph's School community and their families - Emma and Halo in Year 5 and Orlando in Year 6.  I am sure that they already feel 'at home' and have been well looked after by their class mates.  We also welcome Ms Ashleigh Dewit to the primary staff this term.  Ashleigh will be working in Year 5 and Year 6 with Mrs Campbell and Ms Thompson, having moved here from the Gold Coast.  

This term we have a busy schedule planned for the students including the Border District Eisteddfod, the CRISPS Art Prize Competition, Life Education, ANZAC Day, Readers’ Cup, TCS Chess Competition and of course.... lots of learning. We are continuing with our implementation of the Diocesan Approach to Reading and also the introduction of the new Australian Curriculum in many subject areas.

Next week we will join as a community to commemorate the sacrifice made by many for our freedom at our own school ANZAC Day service. This will be followed on Thursday with the march through Stanthorpe and the wreath laying service on Thursday with other community groups. It is always very special to be part of such an event and I do hope that as many of the primary students as possible are able to join us. Parents are advised to check ParentPaperwork for details of the march.

This term, we are also looking forward to watching the development of the Nature Play Space for Years 3-6. Our thanks again are extended to the P&F, the school and local businesses for the financial support and also to those parents and friends who will assist in the construction of the space over the coming weeks and months. We are very fortunate to have that support.

Finally, in coming weeks, we will be holding our Prep 2025 Open Mornings. If you are aware of any families who are seeking information about St Joseph’s for their Prep-age child next year, please advise them of these dates - Wednesday May 22nd and Tuesday May 28th. Further details will be posted on social media platforms in the coming weeks.

With God's blessings

Sarah Yates
Assistant to the Principal Primary & Teaching & Learning