Dear Parents and Carers,

It was so good to see the children and teachers after their break.  Everyone looked rested and ready to start the new term.  It is disappointing that restrictions can’t be eased but it is very important that we continue to adhere to the restrictions in place and assume this will be the way things are until the end of the year unless we have to have to further tighten restrictions. 

We are very proud of our students and teachers and how they have approached the restrictions imposed on us. They have not focused on what we can’t do but have focused on what is possible. Please click on the link here to see Year Six’s approach to Vivid (the Sydney light show) being cancelled and what they have done to ensure the experience can be recreated in another form.

The story of the mustard seed in last Sunday’s gospel reminds us: "tough times don’t last but tough people (or seeds) do.”  I am sure this new wave of infections has meant a rise in anxiety in many children and adults.  It's good to acknowledge this, as well as acknowledge that we have no control over the big picture but can all only do what we can in our homes, schools and work.  Many feel anxiety and fatigue but a reminder that we can also feel gratitude, hope and pride.  Gratitude for the medical profession and our high risk workers; hope for the things our families can learn by going through this challenge together and pride for the common humanity people have shown all across the world where our collective kindness has surfaced. (Lea Waters - Positive Psychologist)

The restrictions still in place for the time being from Sydney Catholic Schools, the Health Department and governments include:

• Parent participation continues to be restricted in schools
• Be cautious of large school gatherings
• 15 min limit on indoor assemblies (Mass excepted)
• Avoid non-teaching adult presence at school in Term 3
• No food sharing practices - sorry that includes birthdays!!
• Have a Plan B for all end of Year practices

Our annual census will take place next week. Please see the privacy notice regarding collection of information. 

Our new canteen providers started this week and we have been very impressed with their service, the quality of the food and the accuracy of their delivery. The food has arrived hot and fresh and on time. They are still working on their sushi supplier and it will be loaded onto Flexischools as soon as they are organised. Please note that the cut off time for orders is 8.30am but the sushi cutoff time will be 7am (or do it the night before!)

A few reminders:

• Students need to be on time to school. The gate closes at 8.40am when the bell rings and assembly starts.  Children who arrive after that time will have a late arrival recorded. Currently there are about 40 -50 children arriving late to school each day - let's try and reduce that and give our students a good start to the day.  I am on duty most mornings and see the great benefit the children can gain in playing with their friends, mingling with all ages and having fun before they start their learning for the day.  Duty starts at 8.10am.
• Please drive safely in Cardinal Street. U Turns and reversing after dropping students off is not considered a safe or legal practice.
• An Apple Pen has been found at school. Can you please let the office know if your child has lost one.

Regards,

Julie Caldwell