Dear Parents/Carers,

Yesterday was the Feast of St John Vianney who is the patron saint of priests. In these times that we live, the choice to be a priest can seem to be a poisoned chalice. However, it is a choice that many men are fulfilling with significant pastoral and spiritual gifts that are having such a positive impact on those for whom they serve. We must all avoid assuming that all priests are guilty of the crimes that have been committed by a small percentage. To live a life in today's modern world which is based on being the face, hands and feet of Christ shows tremendous commitment.

I pray especially for Fr John and Fr Feleki as they spread the Gospel message to all in the St John's parish. May they continue to experience joy in their ministry and support from those they serve.

Parents and Friends Association

One of the most significant impacts of the current restrictions during the pandemic has been the limitations placed on parents and carers being present on the school grounds. This has been particularly evident for the P & F which in ordinary circumstances would be actively organising a range of events and activities for children and their families. Such events assist in promoting a sense of community at St John's and raising funds for student resources.

In order to support the P & F through these challenging times, their next meeting has been organised to be held via Zoom next Tuesday 11 August 9.30-10.30am. This will be an opportunity for you to share any ideas you have about how the P & F can achieve its aims in the midst of the restrictions. More information about this meeting will be distributed via Compass.

         Crazy Hair Day

This has been organised for this Friday 7 August in order to raise funds for the P & F. Children come to school with their hair looking crazy and a gold coin donation. We look forward to seeing lots of weird and wonderful hairdos!

Student Learning

As we navigate any new procedures at school in relation to health directives, I can assure you that the opportunities for learning have not been significantly impacted. Since we moved back into face-to-face teaching, we have discovered that we are now in good routines and the children are spending good quality time in their classrooms. As we are unable to organise many whole-school events, there are currently very few interruptions to learning. This highlights how important it is that we maintain effective controls around COVID-19 so that our school does not have to shut down or move into remote learning.

Wishing you a safe week.

God bless.

Paul Moroney
Principal