Dear Parents and Carers,

It has been a sensational term that has been highlighted by several significant events including; Semester One Reports and Learning Conversations, the Sacrament of Confirmation, Masses and Liturgies, 'Understanding Our Boys' Parent Workshops, Athletics Carnival, St Columba Feast Day, Kindergarten 2020 Interviews, Gala Days, and numerous excursions and incursions. On behalf of the staff of St Columbkille’s, I would like to say thank you for your continued support of our students and staff. We have thoroughly enjoyed the celebrations and challenges that Semester One has brought, and we look forward to working together throughout Term 3, in ensuring our students are challenged, engaged and enjoying their learning.

NAIDOC Week 2019 will be held nationally from Sunday 7 July and continue through to Sunday 14 July. This year’s theme is ‘VOICE. TREATY. TRUTH. - Let's work together for a shared future'. Voice. Treaty. Truth. were three key elements to the reforms set out in the Uluru Statement from the Heart. These reforms represent the unified position of First Nations Australians.

During this time we also acknowledge the work and support our ATSI Learning Team, Mrs Lace and Mrs Orphin who organise and support our students in promoting awareness and inclusivity of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. On Tuesday 23 July, we will be holding a NAIDOC Week School Acknowledgement in the Monsignor Downey Hall at 12.20pm.

Ms Geoghegan officially retires today after 41 years of  service to Catholic Education. In 1994, Suzanne accepted a position as a teacher at St Columbkille’s. For the next 25 years she dedicated herself to the well-being, faith and learning formation of the many, many students she taught during this time. St Columbkille's will dearly miss Ms Geoghegan both personally and professionally, and we wish her every happiness in her retirement. Below are some messages for Ms Geoghegan from Kindergarten 2018.

"I remember our assembly and we sung, 'I’m Still Standing'." "That’s the bit I remembered because it was funny". David Asher
"I remember she always said, 'Have a good day'." Andie Lucchitti
"I remember on our excursion she said, 'Have lots of fun' and we did." Chloe Copson
"I remember she laughed when some people did silly things." Ivy Powell
"I remember when she said to me, 'You have to always listen to the teacher' and now I do." Blake Carter
"I remember every time we worked she said, 'It’s okay if you need help." Felix Ibrahim "I remember she always gave me a sticker when I got my work done." Lachlan Armitage
"I remember she taught me if I wanted to talk in class I have to put my hand up." "I always do that now." Ben Franco

During the school holidays our classrooms and stairwells will be repainted, and new flooring laid in the Basement. The Natural Playground in the Paddock, funded by the P&F is expected to be finished before the start of Term 3.  

On Friday 26 July, we will be celebrating Grandparents Day. We will commence our celebration at 9.10am with a Liturgy in the Monsignor Downey Hall, followed by Classroom visits and morning tea. We look forward to celebrating this very special occasion with you and your parents.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment and dedication of our school community. Enjoy the time with your family and friends and saviour the slow pace of the holiday break. 

We look forward to seeing you again on Monday 22 July for the start of Term 3.

Take care,

Mr Brad Colquhoun - Principal