Dear Parents/Carers,

The Advent Wreath, with its four candles, is a beautiful symbol that is used through this season as we prepare for Christmas. Each of the four candles has a specific meaning and, for this week, the second candle is all about 'peace.'

Let's focus on what the theme of peace is about. Firstly, it is a reminder that Jesus, through his life and example, gives us practical ways in which we can be at peace within oursleves: by trusting in His love and knowing that He will be with us always. Secondly, the second candle reminds us that we should be at peace with others, seeking and offering forgiveness when it is needed, knowing that we all have our crosses to bear. Finally, we are reminded that Jesus was born into our world as the 'prince of peace,' to bring the love of God to all of us. Advent and Christmas give us the opportunity to experience some of this peace.

Digital Christmas Card

As you know, we have been busy creating a Digital Christmas Card. It will be ready for us to share it with you tomorrow afternoon.

We hope you enjoy it!

Student Reports

Student reports are now available via the Compass app. In line with the flexible curriculum requirements as outlined by NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) as a result of the impacts of COVID, not all outcomes in each Key Learning Area (KLA) were taught, assessed and reported upon. Therefore, the overall grades in each KLA have been omitted from this Semester 2 Report for 2020.

For those parents who have a student in Year 6, please note that if your child is not attending a diocesan high school (John Therry, Magdalene or Mt Carmel) then you will no longer have access to Compass after your child finishes school this year. You therefore may want to downlaod the student reports so that you still have access to them in the future.

Also, parents of children in Year 5 may need a copy of this report for enrolment into high school. Therefore, you will be able to download and print a copy of the report for this purpose.

Year 6 Farewell

Last night we were able to hold a farewell for our Year 6 students. While we had to instigate some changes this year so as to be COVID-safe, we were so pleased to be able to have the chance to thank the students and their parents for their contribution to St John's and to wish them well for the next exciting phase of schooling. 

Easing of COVID Restrictions

It has been pleasing to see across our nation that many of the restrictions are being eased. This will no doubt help families in their preparations for the upcoming holiday season. While there have been some easing of restrictions for schools, we will be maintaining our current procedures through to the last day of school next week, particularly to avoid large gatherings of adults. It is hoped that at the start of school next year we will be able to make some changes, especially to having parents and carers on our site more regularly.

End-of-Year Liturgy

Next Wednesday, 16 December, is the final day of school for students. We will hold a liturgy with the students under the COLA, followed by our traditional 'farewell tunnel' which the students and staff who are leaving St John's will walk through as a symbolic way of wishing them well. Once this has concluded, parents are welcome to collect their child. We will open our school gates at 11.30 - 11.45am if you wish to collect your child at that time.

Wishing you a safe and enjoyable week,

Paul Moroney
Principal