Newsletter 28/04/2025: Term 2, Week 2

From the Principal

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

Welcome back to Term 2! I hope you all had a peaceful and enjoyable break, and that the holidays provided a chance to rest, recharge, and spend quality time with loved ones. What a way to begin the new term....School photographs! Our students looked very sharp in uniform, a lot of effort has gone into hairstyles and preparation thank you, I too received some hairstyle tips today from students prior to my snapshot.

This term begins under a sombre shadow, as we join Catholics around the world in mourning the passing of Pope Francis. Known for his deep compassion and humility, Pope Francis dedicated his life to serving the most vulnerable — the poor, the sick, the imprisoned, and the forgotten. His legacy is one of hope, inclusion, and unwavering commitment to justice.

Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis consistently reminded us that education is about more than just academics — it is about forming kind, empathetic hearts. He urged young people to be bridge-builders, not wall-builders, encouraging them to live with courage, compassion, and a spirit of peace. His messages continue to resonate deeply within our school community and across the globe.

Often called ‘the people’s Pope,’ Pope Francis inspired millions with his message of love and service. We give thanks for his remarkable life and leadership, and we extend our thoughts and prayers to all members of the Catholic community at this time of loss.

I look forward to another season of rich learning, shared experiences, and continued growth within our vibrant school community. I encourage all families to stay up to date by reviewing the key dates listed in this newsletter. As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, suggestions, or concerns. I welcome your involvement and look forward to another term of working together to support our students.

Warm regards,

Darren Lloyd

Prayer.

With the passing of Pope Francis, let us pray for the eternal repose of his soul and for the College of Cardinals as they embark on their sacred duty to elect Pope Francis’ successor. 

CATHOLIC SCHOOL CULTURE

Sacrament of Reconciliation

Reconciliation will take place next Wednesday the 7th of May at St Patrick's Church Camperdown at 6pm.

Please keep the students who are doing their Reconciliation in your thoughts and prayers as they start their sacramental journey.

Parish Bulletin

LEARNING AND TEACHING

Division Athletics

Congratulations to our athletes competing this Friday in Warrnambool.

Good luck to all, give it your best shot!

District Cross Country

The next level of Cross Country will be held on Tuesday the 6th of May at the Noorat Recreation Reserve.

If your child has made the next level, you will receive a PAM permission in the coming days for you to confirm their participation.

Grade 4 Sovereign Hill Camp

The Grade 4 Camp is set for Thursday the 8th & Friday the 9th of May. We are looking forward to the memorable learning opportunity that the Sovereign Hill Historical School experience has to offer.

Grade 4 parents have received information regarding the camp via PAM.

WELLBEING

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg Mental Health Roadshow

LEADERSHIP AND STEWARDSHIP

Staff Update

Claire Powling has commenced her maternity leave, and we wish her well with the impending birth of her third child.

We are pleased to announce the appointment of 3/4B classroom teacher Anna Baker as Claire Powling commences her Maternity Leave. Anna will work Monday to Wednesday. We look forward to announcing the teacher who will be working Thursday and Friday in the 3/4B classroom in the coming days, once their appointment is finalised. 

Uniform Updates

Our School Advisory Council (SAC) is beginning work on updating our uniform policy to provide clear and consistent guidelines for families regarding uniform expectations.

As we move into Term 2, we would like to clarify the following:

• Students may wear either the summer or winter uniform throughout the year.
• Shorts and dresses are permitted in Terms 2 and 3.

• During 2025, students may wear the old uniform, the new uniform, or a combination of both.

• Grade 6 students are permitted to wear their Year 6 shirts on Fridays, excursions, camps, representative days, and Grade 6 hats during Terms 1 and 4, or whenever hats are required.

• All students must wear either the maroon broad-brimmed hat or bucket hat when outdoors during Terms 1 and 4, and at other times during Terms 2 and 3 when UV levels are above 3.

• Socks must be plain white or navy, with no logos or branding.

• Shoes must be all black school or running shoes, with no coloured panels or laces. 

• In 2025 students are permitted to wear coloured runners on their PE day. 

We appreciate your support in helping maintain high standards for our school uniform.

St Patrick's Sport Tops

If your child has a Sports top at home from last term, can you please return it this week. The tops are needed for district cross country on Tuesday.

Mother's Day

Upcoming Events

Some important dates for your calendar for Term 2.

Wednesday 30/4                  Alpha Show - King Arthur

Friday 02/05                         Division Athletics - Warrnambool

Tuesday 06/05                     District Cross Country - Noorat

Wednesday 07/05                Sacrament of Reconciliation

Thursday 08/05-09/05            Grade 4 Camp to Sovereign Hill

Monday 12/05.                     Mother's Day Afternoon Tea & Assembly

Friday 16/05                          Division Cross Country - Warrnambool

Monday 26/05                     Regional Cross Country

Tuesday 27/05                      St Patrick's School Open Day

Friday 30/05                         Sacrament of Confirmation

Important Parking Reminder

Dear Parents and Carers,

Please adhere to the safety road signage and road marking around our schools during drop off and pick up times. The designated YELLOW drop off and pick up bays are not a parking zone. Drivers are not to leave their cars and enter the school whilst parked in the yellow zones.

We love school visitors, please park in the proper parking bays before coming into the school.

Noone's Uniform

Noone's now have stock of all our new uniform for purchase. You can pop into the uniform shop to try on.

The shop is located in the Mercy Regional College building.

In Term 2 the uniform shop is open on the following days -

Monday 12.00pm - 4.00pm & Thursday 8.00am - 12.00pm

PLEASE NOTE THE UNIFORM SHOP WILL BE CLOSED ON THURSDAY THE 1ST MAY

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

ANZAC DAY

Thank you to all the families and staff who braved the welcomed rain Friday morning with our exceptional students to commemorate ANZAC Day. It was a well attended service by many of the Camperdown community. Our school leaders represented St Patricks in an honourable and reverent manner.

Birthdays

Happy Birthday to the following students who will celebrate their birthday this week.

Fletcher H, Henry B, Hugo T, Harrison P & Henry R

TheirCare

Theircare has commenced at St Patrick's School and it's not too late to enroll.

We are excited to announce that we have now partnered with an independent Outside of School Hours Care (OSHC) provider called TheirCare.

TheirCare provides a stimulating and safe environment for all children. During sessions, children develop life-skills, friendships, confidence, and creativity through play-based programs.

For further information, visit www.theircare.com.au or call our support office on 1300 072 410

Community Events

Buskers wanted - Robert Burns Festival

Thank you to the sponsors of our raffle!