What a week we have had with so many students back on site. The place has been rather like a ghost town and suddenly it is full of life again. Most students seem to have settled back OK, but all are feeling tired as they adjust back to school routines. Expect this adjustment to continue for a while and don’t be alarmed if their behaviour is unsettled – it is a normal reaction to yet another change.

For some, returning to school has not been so welcome as they have enjoyed the home learning and they also need our support as they adjust back to routines they have not missed. For some, it has been an anxious time after months of quietness and with only the family around. It reminds us that we are all different and accepting that as OK and caring for those who are not like us, is what makes for a safe and loving community.

COVID restrictions still apply but some are lifting. I heard today that school sport will recommence so we will look into what that means for us and let you know. Our students have missed their sport and it will be good for you to ensure they get back into something they enjoy.  Parents may still not come on site and there are still some activities we cannot do. We are arranging for music tutors to operate on-line, if possible, especially for older students. Assemblies and Chapel cannot start yet, so we are looking at the end of year events and working out how best to put those on and give you at least on-line access where possible.

Kiss and Drop 3 is open again on Monday for Kindy to Year 2 students and older siblings and that will help with traffic congestion in the peak times. Can I remind you not to drop your children off across Avoca Drive at the coffee cart stop. We have asked this many times as the owner leases that space in the morning and her customers are inconvenienced by you stopping there. We have had a couple of close calls with children and cars there too, so it is off-limits in the mornings and you use it at your own risk in the afternoon. Please be a good representative of our school and a good example to your children by doing the right thing.

The sad news of this week has been the passing away of one of our Year 6 students after a swimming pool incident last weekend. Please uphold the family in your prayers as they come to grips with this terrible event and seek to care for the two older girls who are in Secondary. No family wants to lose a precious child but sometimes it happens. The staff have gathered around the boy’s classmates, his sisters and their friends and our counselling team stand ready to help any child for whom this news may cause grief and anxiety.

Life is full of joys and grief and a strong community knows how to support each other in both circumstances. Be assured of our support for you in any difficult circumstances as we see our partnership going beyond just an academic one and into the raising of your children to be ready for any of the challenges of life.

Phillip Nash

Principal