17 December 2024 SPECIAL EDITION NEWSLETTER
End-of-Year Message
As we come to the end of another school year, it is with a sense of gratitude and pride that I reflect on the achievements of our school community. This year has been one of growth, connection, and celebration, and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank each family for the role you have played in making this possible.
Our students have achieved significant growth in reading, writing, and mathematics this year. These improvements are a testament to their hard work and the unwavering dedication of our teachers. Implementing the new curriculum has been a major focus for our staff, and their commitment to embracing this change has ensured high-quality learning experiences for every student.
This year, our school has celebrated significant achievements in the sporting and cultural arenas. Many of our students have proudly represented St. Joseph’s in various sports at local and regional levels, demonstrating their teamwork, determination, and school spirit. Our school choir has enriched our community with heartfelt performances, adding a special dimension to key events throughout the year. Additionally, our Indigenous students represented us with pride at several cultural events, sharing their traditions and stories in meaningful ways. These accomplishments reflect the diverse and well-rounded opportunities we provide, inspiring every student to discover and develop their unique gifts and talents.
Our connection to the parish has been a source of joy and renewal, particularly through the beautiful family Masses held throughout the year. These gatherings have been a reminder of the faith that anchors our school community and the shared mission we have to grow in love, inspired by the example of Jesus.
An essential part of our positive school culture has been our end-of-term celebrations, where we come together as a community to acknowledge the efforts and achievements of our students and staff. We have had water slides, colour runs and movie days. These events not only recognise individual and collective accomplishments but also strengthen the bonds that make our school such a supportive and welcoming environment.
As we prepare for a well-earned summer break, I encourage you to take time to rest, recharge, and enjoy special moments with your families. Thank you for your continued partnership with St Joseph’s and for entrusting us with the education and care of your children.
May the Christmas season bring peace, joy, and the blessings of Christ’s love to your home. We look forward to welcoming you back in the New Year, ready to continue this journey of growth and success together.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Christmas Message
As Christmas approaches, life can become a whirlwind of activity—shopping, wrapping, cooking, and celebrating. Yet, amidst all the busyness, we are invited to pause and reflect on the real meaning of Christmas: the birth of Jesus Christ, the light of the world.
In the stillness of that first Christmas night, the Holy Family—Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus—shows us the beauty of faith, trust, and love. They remind us that Christmas is not about perfection but about presence: God present with us, and we present to one another.
Though small and humble, the Holy Family is a powerful symbol of God’s love. They faced uncertainties and challenges but remained united in faith and hope. Like the Holy Family, your family is a unique reflection of God’s love. In your relationships, shared moments, and care for one another, Christ’s love grows and multiplies.
This Christmas, I encourage you to take time as a family to consider the heart of this holy season. Beyond the presents and festivities, reflect together on the gift of Jesus, who brings us peace, hope, and joy. One beautiful way to do this is by coming to Mass, particularly the family Mass in our parish. It is a truly special celebration filled with light, song, and the spirit of Christmas. It’s an opportunity to bring your family, like the shepherds and wise men, to the manger—to experience the love of God made real.
May this Christmas be a time of renewal for your family, where you encounter the presence of Christ in one another. Just as the Holy Family journeyed together in faith, may you find strength in your shared love and support for each other.
I pray that the peace of Christ fills your hearts and homes this Christmas and that the New Year brings blessings, joy, and hope to your family and to our school community.
Merry Christmas, and may God’s love guide you always.
Christmas Mass Times
Our parish is warm and welcoming. We invite you to join us for Mass this Christmas eve. The Children’s Mass in McCarthy Hall is a lovely Mass. It is air-conditioned, has lots of Christmas Carols and Father Max always has a treat for children after the Mass.
- Christmas Mass at Wardell at 4:30pm
- Christmas Eve Children’s Mass at Alstonville at 6:00pm in McCarthy Hall
- Christmas Eve Mass at Alstonville at 7:30pm
Awards Recipients
We congratulate all of our 2024 awards recipients.
Rainbow Region - Quiet Achiever Award
This award is presented to a student from Rainbow Region, our Before and After School Care facility, to a student who always meets the centre's expectations and who is a role model to their peers and a helper to the staff.
Congratulations: Millie Webster (Year 2)
Power of Yet Award Awards
These students have shown a growth mindset in their approach to school this year. They are those students who have persevered in learning and worked hard at achieving or developing a skillset to support them in their learning. They may have utilised the support of others to achieve this growth but will have also shown personal commitment to improvement or achieving their goal. This is not just recognising academic achievement but growth that personifies the ‘power of yet’ thinking.
Congratulations: Addison Smith (Kindergarten), Olly Lowe (Year 1), Charlotte Varley (Year 2), Charlotte Dyson (Year 3), Layla George (Year 4), Oliver McGarry (Year 5), Wyatt-Allen Burton-Schmetzer (Year 6).
School Citizenship - K-5 Award
Citizenship Award celebrates an outstanding student from Kindergarten to Year 5 who embodies respect, kindness, and community engagement. This exemplary individual inspires positive change and serves as a role model, proving that good citizenship can make a profound impact on our school and society, and enabling others to grow through their love.
Congratulations: Ocean Appelkamp (Year 3)
School Citizenship - Year 6 Award
Citizenship Award celebrates an outstanding student in Year 6 who embodies respect, kindness, and community engagement. This exemplary individual inspires positive change and serves as a role model, proving that good citizenship can make a profound impact on our school and society, and enabling others to grow through their love.
Congratulations: Emma Quinlan (Year 6)
Potential Within Award
This award recognises a student from any stage who has demonstrated remarkable progress, perseverance, and dedication in their academic pursuits. Whether it's mastering complex subjects or achieving personal academic milestones, this individual has shown unparalleled commitment to their educational growth in 2023.
Congratulations: Max Latham
The QUOTA Quiet Achiever Award
This award is bestowed upon a student who has consistently demonstrated remarkable resilience in their pursuit of excellence. It is an award for a student who shows tremendous leadership, who is a role model, and who treats others with dignity and respect.
Congratulations: Henry Van Eck
The Hon Ben Franklin MLC Award
This award is presented to a student who not only excels academically but also exhibits outstanding qualities of citizenship within our school community. This is a student who has a demonstrated commitment to both their academic studies, the broader life of the school and the support and care for their fellow students.
Congratulations: Harry Hosking
Platinum Award Winners
We congratulate our Platinum Award Recipients. These are students who have received four Gold Awards.
Farewell Leaving Staff Members
Ms. Kingsford, after 20 wonderful years as our much-loved librarian, is embarking on an exciting new chapter. She will be relocating to Brisbane to be closer to her children and grandchildren and has accepted a position as a librarian at St. Joseph’s Nudgee. While we will miss her greatly, we are thrilled for this new opportunity and wish her every happiness in the journey ahead.
Ms. Holly Clark has been an exceptional classroom teacher with us for the past three years. Her energy, passion, and dedication have left a lasting impact on our school community. In 2025, Ms. Clark plans to broaden her teaching horizons across a variety of schools. We know she will continue to inspire students wherever she goes, and we wish her every success in the future.
Ms. Charlotte White joined us as an enrichment tutor and, this year, embarked on her first year of teaching with enthusiasm and dedication. Having purchased a home in Maclean, she has accepted a teaching position at St. Joseph’s Maclean for 2025. We thank Ms. White for her valuable contributions to our school and wish her all the very best as she continues to grow in her teaching career.
Mr. John Fivaz has been a cornerstone of our school for the past 10 years, managing our uniform shop with care and commitment. In 2025, he will transition into a well-earned retirement. We deeply appreciate his years of loyal service and hard work and wish him a joyful and fulfilling retirement surrounded by family and friends.
Mrs. Lindsay Emery has been a wonderful asset to our school this year, working across multiple roles, including administration, the library, and as an enrichment tutor. As her contract concludes, we thank her sincerely for her remarkable contributions, creativity, and kindness. We wish her every success in her next endeavours and know she will continue to make a positive impact wherever she goes.
Farewell Leaving Families
Each year, we acknowledge that there are a number of families for whom their children are finishing their time in the St Joseph’s School Community. We would like to acknowledge that every family brings with them to our St Joseph’s community their own gifts, uniqueness and beauty. Though your family may be moving on from our school to other adventures, please know you will always be considered a member of our family. We pray that you carry in your heart our school’s motto of Growth Through Love and that your family is guided by the Holy Spirit as you leave our community and join another community. Finally, we pray for the ongoing success and happiness of your family.
We say goodbye to:
- The Bakers and Woodlands
- The Barnes’
- The Burtons and Schmetzers
- The Cliffords
- The Collins’
- The McGoldrick’s and Hipkins
- The Mitchells
- The O'Connors
- The Richardsons
- The Vickrages
- The Wilcomes and Hines
- The Woolleys
Farewell Year 6 Students
Our Year 6 leavers hold a special place in our hearts, and today, we want to take a moment to express just how proud we are of each and every one of them. Over the past seven years, they have not only grown academically but have also blossomed into compassionate, capable, and confident individuals. They have been capable servant leaders this year, acting as guiding lights and leading our school community with integrity and heart.
We pray that you draw strength and wisdom from the example of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop. St Mary’s was a champion for the oppressed and marginalised. We hope that you, too, will serve and love those who sit on the fringes of our community, showing them dignity and respect. St Mary also recognised the transformative power of receiving an education. We pray that you remember how important your own education is and that you continue to work hard to improve in your studies.
We pray that you continue to be inspired by the humble example of St Joseph. His humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to protecting and nurturing the Holy Family provide a beautiful example of selfless love and dedication to family and community. Let his example inspire you to be pillars of support and love for your own families and for those around you.
Year 6, as you move forward, remember the light you have been within our school community. You have led by example, showing kindness, empathy, and a strong sense of responsibility. May you continue to let your light shine brightly wherever you go, illuminating the lives of those you meet just as you have illuminated ours.
Year 6 leavers, as you let your light shine in the world beyond these walls, remember that you are always welcome back home. You are forever a part of the St Joseph's family, and we eagerly await the stories of your achievements and adventures. May God bless each one of you on your journey, and may you continue to grow in wisdom, love, and light.
2025 Uniform Reminder
As we look ahead to 2025, a reminder of the uniform expectations is provided below.
Jewellery is not allowed, however, students who have pierced ears may wear sleepers or studs. Students with multiple ear piercings must have clear studs worn in these holes. Children will be asked to remove all ‘excess’ jewellery and place this in their school bag. Please also note that ribbons, scrunchies, etc worn in the girls' hair should be in School colours: white, light blue, navy blue. Students are asked not to wear nail polish or makeup. Dyed hair is not permitted and shoulder length hair should be tied back for health reasons. In short hairstyles, hair should not cover the eyes or the ears and should be neat and tidy. We do not tolerate “trendy” hair styles such as fades, undercuts, shaved lines, mullets etc. If in doubt, we ask you to check with the school before adopting a new style.
School shows are to be black, polishable leather shoes. These can be ‘sneaker-style’ so long as they are made of leather. We recommend velcro fastenings for the younger years. Black sneakers or skate shoes cannot be worn.
See the images below for examples.
2025 MAI and BestStart Booking
Each year, we begin the year with the Mathematics Assessment Interview. Teachers will take your child for a 30-minute interview to determine their strengths and areas for growth throughout the year.
In addition, Kindergarten completed the BestStart literacy test, which makes their testing period longer, at 1 hour per child.
The interview dates are below:
Year 1-6 MAI Interviews
- Monday 3 Feb - Wednesday 5th Feb
Kindergarten MAI and Beststart
- Monday 3 Feb - Thursday 6th Feb
All booking takes place via Compass and we will send a notice in January when the booking portal has opened.
2025 School Calendar Dates
We have finalised the 2025 School Calendar. Here is a link to a PDF for you to print and add to your fridge.
We will do our best to ensure these dates remain unchanged, though this is not always possible.
A reminder that Rainbow Region vacation care is available for families for most of our MAI dates and some of our pupil-free days for 2025. Please liaise directly with Rainbow Region to book your children into this service.
Parent Handbook for 2025
The Parent Handbook for 2025 has been updated. It is important for families to be aware of its contents as it is updated regularly and it is an important resource for new families in particular. Here is the link.
2025 Uniform Shop
The uniform shop will be open the following times in the first week back of school:
- Monday 3rd February 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
- Tuesday 4th February 9:00 am -12:00 pm
- Friday 7th February 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
We will launch the online uniform shop on Compass this year, which will allow parents to make online purchases of uniform shop items to be collected when Mrs Hall is present in the uniform shop on Fridays between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm, or sent home with your child in the daily collections.
Swimming Carnival
Last Thursday we were extremely blessed to have such an amazing day for our school swimming carnival. The weather was stunning and our children were spectacular. From our non-competitive children, or competitive children, and our Year 6 leaders; all epitomised sportsmanship, kindness and perseverance through their actions and attitudes.
A big thank you to all of the staff and volunteers who assisted, raced or offered to support on the day. These days are not possible without you.
Despite being extremely close in points, Dara were our champion house on the day.
We congratulate our Age Champions from the day: Tabitha Hollows, Riley Iverson, Morris Green, Jack Kubils, Matilda Hollows, Enid Murgha, Maddi Layland, Damon Szeto, Sophie Gonzales-Yule and Max Latham.
We also congratulate the following children who will represent our school at the Richmond Zone Swimming Carnival early next year: Tabitha Hollows, Chloe Carr- Hambly, Ella McVey, Tyler Szeto, Riley Iverson, Olivia Eason, Jack Kubils, Morris Green, Henry van Eck, Spencer Birkwood, Hugo McCall, Matilda Hollows, Halle Hinton, Elaina Battaglia, Damon Szeto, Rory Quinlan, Samuel Pucci- McDermott, Enid Murgha, Maddi Layland, Poppy Elmsly, Zara Towns, Henry Buchanan, Max Latham, Reuben Birkwood, Sybella Peters, Indy Vu, Sophie Gonzales- Yule, Lara Tuckett, Scarlett Hinton and Zaydie Zubani.
The Compass event for these children is active for parent access. The list of nominated events and program of the day can be downloaded from the resources section.
Dear parents,
Here is the list of requirements for 2025. We would love it if you could please send these items in with your child in a suitable bag on the first school day of 2025.
