What a delight it has been showing prospective parents around our school this week.

The feedback from the visiting families has been positive, particularly the praise we have received for the Y6 leaders who have taken these families for tours. I am so proud of my staff and students, who continually demonstrate excellence in the teaching and learning programs we have initiated at St Monica’s. This excellence is not just whilst we have visitors in the school, it is all the time.

One of the overwhelming accolades we received last week, from out Compliance and School Improvement Review, was the community aspect and strong partnerships that exist at our school. That we are inclusive and demonstrate care and concern for others, and this is because all members of our school community have a strong sense of Pastoral Care. I can confidently say that we emulate the following every day:

Empathy: Understanding and responding to the needs and concerns of others. Using empathetic language has helped us to build trusting relationships with others, which underpins effective pastoral care.

Engaged listening: We give full attention to what others are saying and respond in a way that shows we understand and are taking concerns seriously.

Constructive reinforcement: Encouraging and reinforcing positive behaviour can help to build self-esteem and foster a sense of belonging for students. Using language such as "I'm really impressed with your..." or "You've done a great job at..." or “The rewards for your effort are starting to show…” are potent in reinforcing positive behaviour.

Easy to understand communication: Where possible, we aim to distribute clear and concise communication that is easy to understand. We try to use audience appropriate words and phrases. Feedback and follow up strategies, assist us to confirm everyone is on the same page!

Re-assuring language: We like to use phrases such as “How can I help you” or “What do you need right now?” This type of language is reassuring and helps people feel valued and supported.

Well-mannered language: Effective pastoral care involves treating all (even those who may irritate us) with respect and using language that is polite and non-judgmental. We avoid words or phrases that may be offensive or discriminatory.

Mother’s Day - Last Friday, even with a frosty start to the day, we were blessed to celebrate the important women in our lives. It was lovely to have all our mums, grandmothers, older sisters, aunties, and female teachers join us in the Courtyard for Danishes and a warm cuppa. The Mother’s Day stall was a hit, and we sincerely thank Sarah Clark and her team of helpers for coordinating the wonderful surprises you would have received on Sunday morning!

Congratulations to the Machacek family Audrey (3 Blue) and Henry (1 White)