Dear Families,

Book Week

It was wonderful to enjoy the various costumes students chose to wear for our Book Week Parade last week on Friday. Thankyou to all parents for your creativity and ingenuity in supporting the children so they were ready and prepared on the day. Book Week serves as an annual reminder of the pivotal role that books play in shaping the intellectual and emotional development of children. This week traces its origins to a post-war era, when there was a growing recognition of the need to cultivate a reading culture among children and young people. Over the years, it has evolved into a dynamic platform that brings authors, illustrators, teachers, librarians, and children together, igniting a shared passion for stories, ideas, and creativity.

At its core, Book Week is a testament to the belief that books serve as powerful tools in nurturing children's learning journey. In the pages of books, young minds encounter worlds beyond their own, explore diverse perspectives, and cultivate empathy. Through stories, they learn to navigate complex emotions, confront challenges, and aspire to greatness. The event underscores the symbiotic relationship between literature and education, showcasing how books not only impart knowledge but also stimulate imagination, critical thinking, and curiosity.

Parent/child reading sessions encourage critical thinking and active engagement in texts. Parents can encourage children to ask questions, predict outcomes, and discuss their thoughts about the story. These discussions not only deepen comprehension but also stimulate curiosity and analytical skills. Through these conversations, parents can demonstrate that learning is a dynamic process that extends beyond the confines of the classroom. In a world inundated with screens and distractions, reading together provides a precious opportunity for quality bonding and undivided attention. It creates a space where parents and children can connect, share stories, and create cherished memories. These moments of togetherness foster a sense of security and nurture emotional well-being.

Celebrating Fathers

We look forward to welcoming those parents who can attend our morning event tomorrow between 8:30 and 9:30am. Father's Day stands as an occasion where we value the chance to honour and appreciate the unique and important role that fathers and father figures play in our lives. It's a heartfelt recognition of their unwavering support, love, and guidance that shape us into the individuals we become.

However, this day also serves as a poignant reminder that not everyone has the privilege of celebrating a father's presence. It highlights the diversity of family structures and the myriad of circumstances that can lead to absence or loss. While we celebrate fathers, we must also be sensitive to those who may feel a void on this day—those who have lost fathers, those with strained relationships, or those who have different family configurations.

In acknowledging this complexity, Father's Day becomes a call for compassion and inclusivity. It's a time to extend our appreciation not only to biological fathers but also to all father figures who step into nurturing roles, regardless of blood ties. Grandfathers, uncles, mentors, and guardians—these individuals also shape lives with their love, wisdom, and care.

As we celebrate the fathers who have stood by our sides, let's also extend our embrace to those whose experiences differ. Let's remember those who may find this day bittersweet, and be mindful of the diversity of emotions that it can evoke. In doing so, we honour the spirit of Father's Day in its entirety—a celebration of love, support, and connection that transcends the boundaries of traditional definitions.

Wishing everyone a wonderful week ahead.

Best wishes,
Peta Overbury
Deputy Principal – Teaching and Learning

Confessions for candidates preparing for First Holy Communion is scheduled for Thursday, 31st August in the Parish Church.

The time is 6.50pm.

Thank you.

Sr. Julie