Dear Families

Last Sunday, our church community celebrated Pentecost—the feast that marks the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples, filling them with courage, unity, and faith. Often referred to as the birthday of the Church, Pentecost is a powerful reminder that the Holy Spirit remains active in the world today. At Sacred Heart, this sacred moment is honoured through reflection, prayer, attending Mass, and remaining open to the Spirit’s guidance in daily life.

Staff and students have embraced this spirit beautifully within the school environment. In recent weeks, students have consistently demonstrated kindness, good manners, and warm greetings, fostering a respectful and caring culture. These actions have not gone unnoticed—new families visiting during kindergarten interviews have remarked on the welcoming atmosphere. These simple, consistent behaviours are deeply appreciated and form the foundation of a welcoming, caring community.

We acknowledge the role that parents and carers play in shaping their children and the importance of building the foundations as a child’s first teacher.  Staff continue to work together to nurture and support students as they develop and flourish as individuals.

Values come to life in the small, daily actions that shape the culture of Sacred Heart: holding doors open, speaking kindly, listening attentively, and including others in our community. These are the moments that form the heart of this place and space. Take some time to thank a student or staff member when you see our Sacred Heart Values in action.

Over the last few weeks, students have been participating in a Water Awareness Program designed to equip them with essential knowledge and confidence. Through engaging and age-appropriate activities, students are learning to:

• Identify safe and unsafe water environments
• Practice basic rescue skills
• Float, tread water, and safely enter and exit the water

This program is not about developing competitive swimmers but about providing opportunities so that children have the foundational skills to stay safe. Students have shown great enthusiasm and curiosity during these lessons.

In a school surrounded by waterways, beaches, pools, and dams, the importance of water safety cannot be overstated. Being safe and confident around water is not just a recreational skill—it’s a life skill.

The school community is especially grateful to the swimming instructors for their patience, encouragement, and support. 

As the colder weather sets in, families are reminded to ensure children bring warmer jumpers and jackets to school, and to check that all items are clearly labelled. I hope you all enjoy some of the crisp winter days over the next few weeks.

Yours in partnership
Charlene Best
Principal