Dear St Monica’s families and friends,

Advent – Last Sunday marked the beginning of Advent and whilst this is an incredibly busy time of year I always try to take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of the season.  The Advent season is the four-week period before Christmas which celebrates the anticipation and coming of Jesus. The origin of "advent" is from the Latin word adventus, which simply translates as "coming" or "arrival." Not only is the Christian meaning for preparing and celebrating the coming of Jesus Christ and his birth at Christmas, but also to celebrate the new life and the anticipation of Jesus returning.  

2025 Class Structures – I am pleased to announce the class structures at St Monica’s next year. We have received a number of new enrolments to the school which has necessitated a 4^th class for our Year 5 cohort! Next Wednesday at 9.30am will be an opportunity for your child/ren to meet their teacher/s for next year.

In 2025 we will have:

• 2x Kindergarten classes
• 2x Year 1 classes
• 2x Year 2 classes
• 3x Year 3 classes
• 2x Year 4 classes
• 4x Year 5 classes
• 2x Year 6 classes

The creation of the class lists has been a thorough and thoughtful process and I want to assure you that the decisions made have been based on careful consideration of the needs of all our students. Each teacher at St Monica’s brings their own unique strengths, expertise, and dedication to the classroom. I have the utmost confidence in the ability of every member of our teaching staff to provide your child with a rich, supportive, and engaging learning experience.

We understand that changes in class groupings or teachers can sometimes lead to disappointment. If your child is feeling unsure or upset about their class for next year I encourage you to use this as an opportunity to help them develop resilience and a positive outlook. Talk with them about the benefits of new experiences, making new friends, and embracing challenges. As parents, your confidence in their ability to adapt and thrive is incredibly powerful and reassuring.

Please note that the class lists are final. With careful planning and significant collaboration we have made every effort to ensure balanced classes that will best support all students in their learning. Thank you for your ongoing support and trust in our school. Together, we will continue to nurture and inspire your children to achieve their best, grow in their faith, and shine as part of the St Monica’s community.

Staffing News – After a successful application and interview process I congratulate the following St Monica’s staff who have been appointed to the roles of Acting Coordinator.

Ms Laura Frogley will be Acting Coordinator for 12 months whilst Liz Foster is on transfer to another CECG school for next year.

Mrs Alisssa Pearson will be Acting Coordinator for 12 weeks whilst Ryan Matchett is on Parental Leave for Term 1.

Community Events - We look forward to welcoming you to several end of year community events!

Tomorrow we have our St Vincent de Paul Giving Liturgy. This will happen at 9.15am in the St Moncia’s Church. Thank you to all families who have donated to the Christmas Hamper Appeal and to the School Community Council for their generous donation of $2000 in support of this wonderful organisation.

On Monday 9 December our Year 6 cohort will graduate from Primary School. In celebration of this important milestone the students will be treated to a special lunch and party. Huge thanks to the Year 5 parents for coordinating this special event for our Year 6 students.

I can’t wait to see our families at the Community Christmas Carols next Thursday evening 12 December. Please bring along picnic rugs, camp chairs, supper and snacks and… your best singing voices! The carols begin at 6.00pm and the canteen will be open for light refreshments.  

On Friday 13 December at 9.15am we have the Passing of the Light ceremony. This special handing over of student leadership liturgy will take place in St Monica’s Church. At 10.00am we will be in the hall for our final Awards Assembly and to farewell those who will be leaving the St Monica’s community at the end of the year.

Last Day of Term 4 – Monday 16 December is the last day of Term 4 for all students. TeamKids OSHC is available from Tuesday 17 – Friday 21 December 2024 for any families who need this service.

End of Year activities – There is lots on for everyone! Hoping you can make it to as many of these events as you can…

Friday 6 December

St Vincent De Paul Giving Liturgy – 9.15am

Monday 9 December

Year 6 Graduation and Awards Ceremony – 9.30am

Wednesday 11 December

Meet your 2025 Classroom Teacher/s – 9.30am

Kinder – Year 2 Nativity – 2.00pm

Reports home to families – 3.30pm

Thursday 12 December

Wear Christmas clothes to school

Community Carols Evening – 6.00pm (School Oval)

Friday 13 December

Passing of the Light – 9.15am (St Monica's Church)

Final Awards Assembly - 10.00am (School Hall)