Welcome back

Welcome back to Term 3! We hope this message finds you well and that you had a restful and enjoyable break.

We are excited to start this new term with our students and continue to provide a safe and engaging learning environment. Our dedicated teachers and staff are committed to supporting your child's growth and academic success.

We have planned various student activities and events this term, including excursions, fundraisers, feast days and sporting events. We encourage you to stay up-to-date with our school newsletter, calendar and Compass so you know when these events are on.

We look forward to working with you this term to ensure your child has a successful and fulfilling experience. 

Congratulations!

It is with mixed emotions that we as a staff, offer our sincerest congratulations to our Principal, Sarah Lowe. The news was just as much a shock to us as it was to our parent body and students. We are extremely grateful for her leadership and expertise as Principal here at St Mary's and know that St Matthew's are getting a dedicated and talented new Principal. 

For those who missed the news, Mrs Lowe has accepted a position from January 2024 to be the new Principal at St Matthew's in Page, ACT. 

So, congratulations Mrs Lowe, we will miss you more than you know.

Baby News!

Congratulations to Tressa, Shane and Year Two student Henry Elsley-Mattox on the safe arrival of their baby brother, Edward. We look forward to meeting him very soon.

Acciona Wind Farm Grant

Last Term we received news that our application to ACCIONA Energía’s Gunning Wind Farm Sponsorship Program for 2023 had been successful. We have received $2,900 towards transport funding for the Year Six Camp at the Collaroy Centre at the end of this term.

This year they received an exceptionally large number of high-quality applications and considered the project’s overall benefit to the local and surrounding community.

Mrs Lowe and myself were invited to a morning tea at The Stables in Gunning with all the other recipients. We are very thankful to Acciona Energia.

Stage 2 Showcase of Learning

Last term we enjoyed our Year 3 and Year 4 showcase of learning performance. This piece of art was created by Mrs Skelly to show the various learning styles we have journeyed through since the 1950's.

This production was timely as it coincides with a momentous occasion in the history of our school and community. This year marks the 120th anniversary of Catholic education in Crookwell. It is a time for us to honour the legacy of the Sisters of Mercy, whose arrival brought education, compassion, and a strong sense of community to our town. 

There were many laughs and giggles from grandparents and parents alike as they all found something in the performance that resonated with them and their glorious school days.

We were also entertained by Grace, Sophie, Ruby, Joe and Rory, who showcased their skills learnt at private music lessons at St Mary’s. 

The School Explorers  - School Readiness Program

Is your little one starting school in 2024? Help them embark on an exciting educational adventure with "The School Explorers" commencing in Term 3 on Friday, 18th August.

"The School Explorers" is a comprehensive school readiness program designed to familiarise children commencing school in 2024 with our caring staff, friendly students, state-of-the-art facilities, and the exciting world of the NSW curriculum key learning areas. This program aims to make the transition to primary school smooth, enjoyable, and filled with confidence!

All preschool-aged children are invited to attend regardless of school choice. Come along to all or as many sessions as suits you. Parents you are welcome to stay for the session, leave your child in our capable hands, or a combination of both.

To register or for more information, don't hesitate to get in touch with Belinda on 48321 592. We can't wait to welcome your child to St Mary's!

Public Speaking Competition

In Week Two or Three, each student will have the opportunity to present a speech to their class. This allows our students to gain valuable experience in public speaking within a comfortable and familiar setting. It also allows them to engage with their peers, share their ideas, and practice their communication skills.

The speech topics are as follows:

Year 3 - My backyard - 2 minutes

Year 4 - Sport brings us together - 2 minutes

Year 5 - Learning from the past - 3 minutes

Year 6 - Difficult journeys - 3 minutes

Following the class presentations, five representatives from each year group will be chosen to present their speeches to the entire school on Tuesday, 8th August. These finalists will compete to be one of the two chosen speakers for their respective year groups.

The selected speakers from our school will then move on to represent St Mary's at the Northern Region Public Speaking Competition on Friday, 18th August. This is an exciting opportunity for our students to showcase their talents and compete with other schools in the region.

We encourage all students to participate enthusiastically in their class presentations and make the most of this valuable learning experience. Public speaking enhances communication skills and boosts confidence, critical thinking, and self-expression.

Parents and families are welcome to attend the school competition and show their support for our budding speakers.