Dear Parents/Carers,                   

A Warm Welcome Back to Term 4

As we enter the final term of the school year, I have been reflecting on what truly makes an exceptional educator. An exceptional educator does far more than teach curriculum — they recognise that genuine nurture is not simply kindness or comfort, but the strength to guide, challenge, and uplift each child in their learning and faith journey.

They recognise each student’s God-given gifts, seeing potential even before the child recognises it themselves. Exceptional educators bring together knowledge, compassion, and faith, creating classrooms where students feel safe to take risks, learn from mistakes, and celebrate success.

Often, as parents, we naturally hold ideas about what the ideal teacher might look like for our child, someone with a particular style, personality, or approach. However, the reality is that what we as parents may first perceive as the “perfect fit” is not always what a child needs most to learn, grow, and flourish. Sometimes the teacher who challenges, stretches, or supports a child in unexpected ways becomes the one who helps them grow the most.

This is especially important to remember as teachers begin the process of class placements for next year. Our staff spend many hours thoughtfully balancing classes and ensuring that every child is placed where they will be best supported, academically, socially, and emotionally. We ask that you trust in the professionalism and expertise of our teachers, who know our students deeply in the learning environment and always act with their best interests at heart.

I am continually uplifted by how deeply our students love their class teachers. It is a joy to see the trust, laughter, and genuine affection shared in classrooms each day. Children notice when teachers care, when they listen, and when they make learning meaningful, and our teachers do this beautifully.

As parents, we play an important role in nurturing a positive partnership by speaking supportively about our children’s teachers. When children hear encouragement and respect for their teachers at home, it reinforces the strong partnership between school and family and helps them approach learning with confidence and pride.

Together, through faith, trust, and shared purpose, we continue to nurture the hearts and minds of every child in our care. Our shared purpose is reflected beautifully in our school vision:

With Jesus as our model, in the tradition of St Paul and St Mary MacKillop, we strive to provide an education that challenges and encourages all to reach their full potential. We do this in partnership with our families, the parish, and the wider community.

Warm regards,

Sheereen Brunetta
Acting Principal

School Fees 2026

Morning Supervision

A reminder that children are not supervised prior to 8.30am each morning and after 3.35pm. Parents are requested not to bring children to school prior to 8.30am to ensure the safety of the children. If your child needs supervision before or after the above hours, please contact Aspire.

Mackillop Awards 

Students not Returning in 2026

As we continue to prepare for the 2026 school year, we ask that any students from Kindergarten to Year 5 (excluding Year 6 students) who will not be returning to St Paul’s in 2026 parents complete the attached form and return to the school office as soon as possible.

Completed forms can be returned via email to info@spcdow.catholic.edu.au or in person at the school office.

School Uniform

We understand that it’s the start of a new term and everyone is settling back in after the holidays. However, we kindly ask that families take a moment to review and support our school’s uniform policy. Encouraging students to wear the correct uniform helps promote pride, equality, and a sense of belonging within our school community. Please pay particular attention to socks, which should not be ankle socks, and to jewellery, which should be minimal and in line with the policy. If you’re unsure about any uniform requirements, please refer to the school’s uniform policy attached. Thank you for your cooperation and continued support in helping our students start the term on the right note.

Supporting Children to Self-Regulate

Self-regulation is a key life skill that helps children manage their emotions, thoughts, and behaviours in positive ways. At school, self-regulation supports students to stay focused, make good choices, and respond calmly to challenges — all of which contribute to a respectful and productive learning environment.

We encourage students to use the “Stop, Think, Choose” strategy when faced with a tricky situation:

• Stop – Pause before reacting.
• Think – Consider how they are feeling and what the best choices are.
• Choose – Act in a way that is safe, respectful, and responsible.

Families can support this at home by:

• Talking about feelings and positive ways to express them.
• Praising effort when children make calm, thoughtful choices.
• Modelling how to pause and take a breath before responding.

When students practise self-regulation consistently, the classroom becomes a calmer, more positive place where everyone can learn and thrive.

School Disco - Friday, 24 October 2025

A reminder the school disco will be held this Friday, 24 October 2025.

P&F Meeting - Wednesday, 19 November 2025 

The next P&F meeting will be held on Wednesday, 19 November 2025 at 7:00pm in the school hall. All parents are welcome and encouraged to attend.