Dear Parents and Carers,

The school choir recently took centre stage at the Civic Theatre, delivering an entertaining performance for all. A huge thank you to Mrs Carr for her exceptional guidance and hard work in preparing the students for this special event. Congratulations to all of our 84 choir members on an outstanding achievement!

Last Thursday, our school community came together under sunny skies for a fantastic Athletics Carnival! From cheering crowds to energetic events, it was a day full of spirit and fun. A huge thank you to Mrs Fry and our hardworking staff for making it run so smoothly, our generous parent helpers for their support, and a big congratulations to our Kindergarten students for taking part in their first-ever carnival. Well done to all!

This past week also saw our staff engage in two enriching professional learning days. The first focused on well-being, offering time to reflect and recharge as a team. The second day centred around drafting our updated school Vision and Mission statements—a meaningful project that will continue with the guidance of Fr Joseph. We look forward to sharing the final version once it’s reviewed and ratified by Bishop Michael in the coming months.

Today we say farewell to Mrs Claire Rowlings who has now commenced parental leave before the birth of her third child over the coming weeks. We thank Claire for her work in Year 5 and her contribution to St James’ over the past 2 terms. We wish Claire and her family all the best as they welcome their new baby into the world. 

I am pleased to announce that Ms Phoebe Parker has been appointed to Year 5 Blue (Thursdays and Fridays). Phoebe is also class teacher on 6 White each Monday and Tuesday. Currently working and collaborating with the teachers across Stage 3, Phoebe has excellent knowledge of Year 5 expectations, programming and planning required.

As Mrs Madeleine Ireson is soon to commence parental leave, I am also pleased to announce the appointment of Miss Ebony Hanley to Kindergarten White. Ebony has held positions in the school on a temporary basis and is a regular casual teacher across the classes. Ebony has worked in Kindergarten White on several occasions this year, is aware of the learning needs of the students and most recently accompanied the students on their excursion to the Hunter Wetlands and the Athletics Carnival. I congratulate Ms Parker and Miss Hanley on their success.

We’re also excited to invite you to Ricky’s Guitar Group Concert, happening next Friday at 2:00pm in the Hall before our regular fortnightly assembly. Come along to support our talented student musicians as they showcase their skills in what promises to be a toe-tapping afternoon of music and fun!

Next term we will commence our Family and Community Engagement (FACE) meetings. Our first meeting will take place on Monday 11^th August at 6:30pm. From the recent survey that parents completed it was evident that parents would like more information on Child Mental Health. I’m pleased to announce that Stacey Mortimer, our school counsellor will be presenting at this meeting. More information to come!

And lastly, a reminder that student reports will be available via Compass next Friday. Please keep an eye out for the release and take a moment to celebrate your child’s achievements and growth this term. A big thank you to all staff for their time and commitment to the children of St James’.

I thank you for being such an engaged and supportive school community. All the best for the weeks ahead!

Mrs Sonya Boslem
Principal