Dear Parents/Carers,                                                                        

As we come to the end of the term I am in a reflective mindset, probably a good thing considering we are in Lent. During the term I have given a set of 5 pictures, all the same to three different students to assist them to self regulate their own anxiety. The picture included has a very important message, not just to the three students I shared it with but for us all I am sure, as we try and navigate this parenting thing.

Over ten years ago a student, at a school where I was principal, had huge separation issues based on anxiety. On this particular day the cross country (very much like ours) was being held down at the local playing fields and the child refused to go. When I got to the bottom of it, the child was fearful of leaving the school because of a back story directly related to the anxiety.

At the time, I wanted the child to understand that there are so many times where we deny ourselves of new experiences or experiences we might actually enjoy simply because sometimes new things can come across scary. How many times as a child did you not go on a ride at the Camden Show because you were too scared? How many times as a child did you stop yourself from participating in something simply because of your own fear?

On this day I said to the child:

“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass,

It’s about learning to dance in the rain!”

Two years later, after finishing Year 6 the child left the school and gave me a painting, which is the picture shared with you. This painting had pride of place on the wall in my office and has done so in three of the six schools I have led. Every morning I undertake a little ritual, where I look at the painting and I pray:

“Please God, don’t let one fall through the cracks today!”

There are now three students at our school who have small laminated palm size photos of this picture. In fact they have five copies, one for their bedside drawer, one for their school bag, one for their pencil case, one for mum or dad and one to keep in their pocket if they can feel the dark fog of anxiety creeping into their world. It is there to remind them not to let the things that worry them stop them from doing things that potentially they might enjoy or find exciting.

May the Easter Triduum be a story of hope to you all as we go on vacation during the week of Holy Week. Our Easter journey is a story of “victory” through “failure”, and is the greatest message about hope that I know.

The story that I have shared with you in the final newsletter for the term, comes a close second story of hope for me. With this story I also say thank you to the students, parents and staff who continue to remind me to dance in the rain.

May the risen Christ this Easter bring great joy and happiness to you and your family.

A friendly reminder again we are inviting parents and carers to provide feedback on their experience as being part of our school community using an online survey. The survey is an important part of our whole school evaluation and planning process. The survey will provide us with valuable feedback on what our parents think about school life, how engaged they are with school and the different ways that they interact with the school.

Parents and Carers will be able to access the Parent survey on a computer or mobile device by using a given URL address, which will be available early next term. The survey is anonymous and will only take approximately 20 minutes to complete. 

The S.P.E.E.K students have expressed interest in learning a new language. Mrs Rae and Mrs King are seeking support from a parent or grandparent in the school community who may be able to assist with teaching the students a new language. The volunteer would need to complete the CEDOW onboarding process for child protection. If anyone is willing to assist, It would involve a weekly 45 minute learning session. Please contact Mrs Rae or Mrs King who can provide more information and discuss this opportunity for this group of students. 

School Attendance

Regular attendance is one of the most important factors in a child's academic and social success. When children miss school—even just a day here and there—it can impact their ability to keep up with lessons, build routines, and feel confident in the classroom.

Here’s why it’s so important for children to attend school every day:
✅ Learning builds daily – Lessons often build on each other. Missing even one day can mean missing key skills or knowledge.
✅ Friendships grow at school – Being present helps children stay connected with their peers and feel part of the school community.
✅ Good habits start early – Regular attendance sets up positive habits that carry through high school and beyond.

We understand that sometimes absences are unavoidable due to illness or emergencies. However, we encourage families to prioritise school attendance as much as possible and schedule appointments or holidays outside school hours whenever they can.

Days missed = years lost A day here and there doesn’t seem like much, but…

St Paul’s Athletics Carnival – Save the Date!

Our annual St Paul’s Athletics Carnival will take place on Thursday, 5 June 2025, at Narellan Sports Hub (Term 2, Week 5).

All students attending will have the opportunity to participate in a range of events and activities, ensuring a fun and active day for everyone. Every student will compete in a competitive 100m race.

Students aged 8 to 12 who wish to be considered for Diocesan Selection in the 200m, 800m, and Long Jump events must complete the Compass Insight nomination form by Friday, 16 May 2025: Compass Nomination Form.

Important: All students are required to travel to the venue by bus from school.

We look forward to an exciting day of sport and school spirit!

Representative Trials 

Over the past week, several students have showcased their skills at the representative trials for hockey, AFL, and football (soccer). Congratulations to Jaimee on her selection for the Mackillop Hockey team!

We also acknowledge Bianca, Kiera, and Indie, who have been invited to attend the final trial for selection in the Wollongong Football team.

Well done to all students who participated in these trials.

Paul Kelly Cup

Last Thursday, twenty-four Year 3/4 boys participated in the @aflnswact Paul Kelly Cup. They started the day with skill development before moving on to non-competitive matches. Throughout the day, their teamwork, game awareness, and skills improve.

A huge thank you to our parent volunteers for your support.

St Paul's School Fete Raffle - Tickets Now Live

Our annual school fete is just around the corner, and we need your support to make it a huge success! By purchasing raffle tickets, you not only get a chance to win amazing prizes but also contribute to enriching our children's educational experience.

To purchase tickets please visit the link below or scan the QR code. 

St Paul's Fete Raffle Tickets

Mother's Day 

This year the Mother's Day stall will be held on Thursday, 8 May 2025. Gifts will be $10 and one gift per student.

Vacation Care Enrolment Flyer