Dear Parents/Guardians, Students, and Staff,

As we approach the end of another blessed year here at St Thomas The Apostle PS, I am filled with gratitude and joy for the incredible journey we have undertaken together. It is a time to reflect on the growth, achievements, and shared experiences that have shaped our school community.

This year has been marked by the resilience and determination of our students, who have demonstrated a commitment to learning and personal development. In the spirit of our faith, they have embraced our school wide expectations of Safety, Respect and Learning, offering love and reconciliation to each other as they build toward a warm and inclusive environment for all.

Our dedicated teaching and support staff have worked tirelessly to provide a nurturing and enriching educational experience. Their passion for teaching, willingness to challenge and be challenged, coupled with their unwavering commitment to the well-being of each child, has been instrumental in the success of our students.

I extend my deepest appreciation to our parents and guardians for entrusting us with the education of your children. Your ongoing support, involvement, and partnership have been essential in creating a strong foundation for the growth and success of our school community.

As we bid farewell to 2023, let us carry forward the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the memories created. May the spirit of love, peace and goodwill that surrounds this season continue to inspire us in the coming year.

Wishing you all a blessed Christmas and a joyous New Year filled with hope, love, and prosperity. May the light of faith guide us, and may we continue to journey together in the spirit of unity and purpose in the education of the students at St Thomas The Apostle.

December

Thursday 14th December - Last day of formal classes Foundation-Grade 6 - Students are invited to wear Christmas Colours to school.

Thursday 14th December - Grade 6 (Damascus) Students Last Day and Graduation - Geode Centre 6:00pm

Friday 15th December - Foundation-Grade 5 Students Last Day - Clean Up Day (no formal classes)

Please note: For any Pupil Free or School Closure Day - OSHC is available, please make a booking directly with Village OSHC.

On Monday, December 11th, Group 1 eagerly embarked on their two-day adventure filled with exciting activities. The thrill continued as Group 2 joined in on Tuesday, adding to the joyful atmosphere. Both groups enjoyed an overnight stay, fostering independence and creating lasting bonds with their peers.

The itinerary was packed with a variety of activities that not only brought smiles to their faces but also provided valuable opportunities for personal growth. From the enchanting encounter with fairy penguins to the friendly competition of mini golf and ten-pin bowling, each moment was filled with laughter and camaraderie.

The adventure didn't stop there. Archery, the giant swing, flying fox, and bush cooking added an extra layer of excitement and skill-building to the mix. These activities not only challenged our children but also allowed them to discover new interests and talents.

As educators, it warms our hearts to know that our children had the chance to explore, learn, and grow in a supportive and adventurous environment. These experiences will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on their memories, fostering not only independence but also a sense of teamwork and resilience.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the organisers and staff who made this memorable experience possible. I am sure you will be hearing more stories from our young adventurers.

We are very proud of our grade fives who lived our expectations of Safety, Respect and Learning whilst being curious and ready to try new things just like St Thomas was in his life too.

Principal's message about the Year 5 camp

It was my privilege to spend three days this week with the Year 5 groups at camp. The children did an outstanding job of working together, challenging themselves, being brave, respectful and safe. Children had a chance to share skills and talents not normally visible in a school environment. Their peers learned about each other and gained a greater appreciation of the variety of gifts each person brings to the group.

We are letting you know about the opportunity to jump on board with the Chess program for next year for your child. It is offered for students from Year 1 to Year 6.

It sounds like a long way off, but it's only a month and a half away!

Please see the flyer attached, for the details of the Chess program for Term 1, 2024 and follow the links provided to register.