As we conclude Term 2 for 2023, we also conclude Semester One and reflect on the rich learning experiences that have occurred within and beyond formal learning spaces. As much as improving personal capability, students have improved their own character through social interaction and the many opportunities afforded them at St Paul’s, largely thanks to the most exceptional staff who have facilitated these opportunities.
Semester 1 Academic Reports (released on the final day of this term) will offer opportunities to reflect on successes and set goals for the remainder of 2023. I plead with families to continually discuss academic progress and achievement, to refocus positive learning habits and centralise learning as essential (far more focused and effective than simply discussing ‘going to school’).
One personal celebration is the many examples of families being onsite as we continue to move past habits formed during COVID restrictions, and reengage families as essential members of a student’s learning experience and growth journey. Our Mother’s Day Liturgy, Middle Years Learning Expo and Primary Years Music Afternoon are examples of tremendous parent involvement.
Similarly, new leadership and many new members of our vibrant Parents and Friends Association has given life to reinstated family engagement since the restrictions of past years; new members are always encouraged, and the Term 3 P&F Quiz Night will showcase a tremendous example of what this Association (and families) does for our community.
Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week have been important parts of the past term and demonstrated our continually improved commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, as well as associated traditions and expertise that offer so much to all Australians as a most significant part of our shared history. Student knowledge and engagement with these rich traditions will continue to be part of our St Paul’s story, while so much growth remains as an exciting opportunity for further growth, partnership, healing, and learning.
Knowing who we are as a community and having started Term 2 with our Founder’s feast day, Blessed Edmund Rice Day back in the first week of term, it is most appropriate that this frames our reflection on the term. Embodying the touchstones of Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA), Edmund calls us to a Liberating Education, based on Gospel Spirituality, within an Inclusive Community to Justice and Solidarity. Where have you witnessed this in the past Term and where has your child’s experience reflected this? What instances of learning, co-curricular, wellbeing, relationship and spirituality can you recall, as we collectively give thanks for a rich term of experience and growth? What of these questions can be a discussion point with your child(ren), knowing that these questions address who we are, well beyond what we do?
In thanking our staff for their exceptional commitment, expertise, and hard work throughout this Term, I also thank our students who are at the centre of our community, as well as our families who breathe life into the journey that our community provides for young people. May the upcoming school holiday period be a time for connection, reflection, and readiness for Term 3.
Josh Foulis
Acting Principal
