As we come closer to Advent (this Sunday December 1), it is important to remind ourselves the message of advent is around preparation and then the celebration of the birth of Christ. This year, the theme is Peace. In our uncertain world, now more than ever, we need to pray for peace and calm in our society and across the world. As we light the advent candle on Sunday for Hope, please say this little prayer "Come, Lord Jesus" as we invite Christ to be in our hearts, minds and actions for a better world.

Next week, we invite our families to join us on Tuesday at 8.45am for our final gathering as a school for our Christmas Liturgy and presentation of hampers to St Vincent De Paul. We demonstrate to our students the gift of giving to those in need. Having had many conversations with staff from St Vincent De Paul, it is a small gesture from us, but for those families that receive these hampers, it is greatly appreciated and even tears are shed in gratitude.

Thank you to the parents and staff for the organisation of some key events recently. From Year 6 camp, swimming carnivals, Carols and awards, it is certainly appreciated. Your generosity of time is a special gift that we are always thankful for.

Finally, it was great to see so many families at our Carols this week. I appreciate this is a day event and I am aware this is not everyone's preferred time. But as we are always saying, our students are the ones that get to perform and having it during the day, every child has this opportunity, it allows every staff to assist in this very busy time of the year and families still get to join in (if they can make it - like swimming carnivals and athletics and Eisteddfod). This year, we are trying to set this up as everyone joining in the singing rather than a concert for people to view. Our Carols books are ready for those beautiful singing voices.

Next week, we will have our final newsletter for the year with some valuable information for families, particularly some key dates for 2025. 

Happy Days

Paul Martin