Since the last opportunity I had to share news from the Primary Campus, we have witnessed many opportunities for the students to display their talents.  This began with the Arts Showcase that included drama and music theatre workshops and culminated in a performance afternoon which was attended by family members and special guests.  It was wonderful to see all students participating with enthusiasm and we are grateful to Dr Cuskelly and Mrs Wilshire for their organisation of this two-day event.

That event was followed this week with the Border District Eisteddfod where many of our students participated in a range of arts events as individuals, small groups and cohorts.  For the first time this year, students entered into the drama classes and it was wonderful to see their performances.  Congratulations to all those who courageously stood on the stage and performed for the audience in whatever capacity.  This is no mean feat.  Well done to those who came away with a certificate or a trophy.

Also across the last few weeks, the students have been creating their art works for the Crisps Art Show which this year will be held at the start of June.  We are extremely grateful to those parents who have volunteered in many capacities to assist the students in this endeavour.  Their time and expertise was very much appreciated.

In the sporting arena, we had a number of students who attended the Darling Downs Cross Country Trials recently and they all represented the school and the Granite Belt well.  Congratulations to all those who took part and especially to Alanna Fox, who received the exciting news on Tuesday that she has been selected to join the Darling Downs Cross Country Team after initially being selected as a Shadow in the team. 

Of course, all this is in conjunction with the learning that takes place on a daily basis at St Joseph's.  In particular, the Diocesan Approach to Reading (DAR) is continuing to be implemented in the P - 2 classrooms especially and the teachers are seeing some gains with this new approach.  

This week, we held the first of our Information Mornings for parents of Prep students in 2025.  The attendance at the morning was positive and this is on the back of a number of enrollment applications that have already been received.  We will be repeating the session on Tuesday 28 May at 9:15am for anyone who was unable to make it this week.  If you are aware of any families who are considering schools for next year, please let them know of this date and time or advise them to contact me for a chat.

Finally, as the temperature has begun to decrease in the mornings, we have started to see the children wearing  additional items of clothing.  A reminder to parents that the uniform expectations are provided in the Primary Campus Handbook which can be found on the school website.  Specifically, long sleeved shirts worn under the school shirts should be red in colour.  Also, all items should be clearly named.  We thank all families for their assistance with this.

With God's blessings

Sarah Yates
Assistant to the Principal Primary & Teaching & Learning