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Dear Parents and Carers,
I hope you have had a great week. Today, we have had an excellent day to conclude Harmony Week, during which we have shared the rich culture of our school. It has been wonderful to see our students come in a splash of orange, with many representing their culture by wearing traditional dress or bringing in traditional items.
The richness of culture within our school is something we truly value, and it’s clear to see how much strength diversity brings to our community. We are proud of the way our students and families contribute to making our school a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
Canteen Manager
We have extended the recruitment campaign for our Canteen Manager position until next week. If you are interested or know someone who might be, please feel free to contact me directly to discuss the role in more detail.
This position offers flexible school hours, paid school holiday term leave, and a range of other great benefits. Full training will be provided, and we can support the successful applicant in completing food safety and any other required certifications.
For more details, please refer to the job ad here: Catholic Education Careers.
NAPLAN
This week, our students in Years 3 and 5 have completed their NAPLAN tests. They have finished the Writing, Reading, and Language Conventions (Grammar/Punctuation) assessments, and the Numeracy test was completed earlier in the week, with catch-up sessions for any students who were absent.
NAPLAN provides a valuable snapshot of student learning as a whole cohort and helps identify trends and areas for future focus. It also allows us to track progress over time. However, it’s important for students to remember that NAPLAN is just one test on one day, and many factors can influence performance. As such, it may not fully reflect an individual student’s learning or progress. I am extremely proud of the way our students approached this testing period, and they should all be congratulated on their efforts. A big thank you to the teachers, Mrs McArthur, and Mrs Thomas for their ongoing support in preparing the students and the necessary resources leading up to NAPLAN.
2026 Enrolments
Although we are still early in the year, we will soon enter the enrolment period, which will begin at the start of next term. We are pleased to confirm our Open Day tours on the following dates:
- Tuesday, May 6th: 9:30-10:30 am and 3:30-6 pm
- Wednesday, May 21st: 9-10 am and 3:30-6 pm
If these dates do not suit, we are happy to accommodate tours outside these days with prior notice. If you wish to arrange a tour, please contact the office during business hours to arrange an alternative time.
We know that word of mouth from our parent community is one of the most effective ways to share the educational opportunities we provide to help all students grow. Please consider speaking with your friends, neighbours, and family about the supportive environment we offer here at St. Francis.
Fee Help
We are aware that the ongoing cost of living challenges and high-interest rates are affecting many in our community. If you are experiencing financial difficulties or need support, please don’t hesitate to contact me or Julie Rummukainen at julie.rummukainen@cg.catholic.edu.au for a confidential conversation about the ways we can assist you during this time.
We have various support options available, including fee concessions based on an income test, as well as assistance for additional expenses such as camp fees. We also understand that life events, such as medical appointments or unexpected circumstances, can impact your finances. If you are facing such challenges, please reach out, and we’ll work with you to provide support. Everyone faces financial uncertainty at some point, and we understand that it can be a stressful time for families. Please reach out to us if you need support.
Blessings and best wishes
Sean Rutledge
Principal
Third Sunday of Lent, Matthew 21: 33-46, The Parable of the Vineyard
In this week’s parable we learn of a landowner who has planted a vineyard and leased it to tenants. He then moved to another country and promised he would send his servants back to collect the produce from the vineyard in later years.
In this parable, the landowner represents God and the vineyard represents the Kingdom of God. It teaches us that we are now the tenants, the stewards, of God’s vineyard. We have been entrusted with this world, with all that we have, and are now called to care for it well, and to give our creator the fruits of our harvest. Through this parable, we learn to use what we have been given to bear fruit in our lives, not for ourselves, but for God.
Sacrament Registrations
A reminder that if your wish for your child in Year 4 (Reconciliation), Year 5 (Eucharist) or Year 6 (Confirmation) to receive a Sacrament this year, you must register them via the Parish QkR! Account. Registrations close on April 4th.
Have a great week.
REGISTER NOW: TRP Parent Engagement Session
When: Tuesday 25th March
Where: School Library
Time: 6-7pm
Babysitting available? YES!!!
Topic: Building Resilience at Home
What TRP will deliver: A whole school approach is key to enhancing student wellbeing. This workshop is designed to empower parents and carers by equipping them with practical strategies to practise Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness (GEM) at home.
Please register your interest via the following link - https://forms.office.com/r/5b2WVfANxK
We would LOVE to see you all there!
An Exciting Opportunity for Your Daughter at St Clare’s College!
The transition to Year 7 is an exciting milestone, and St Clare’s College is here to support your daughter every step of the way!
Inside this attachment, you'll find everything you need to explore St Clare’s vibrant school community—from personalised tours to hands-on workshops and special events designed to help your daughter feel right at home.
Spots for upcoming events are filling quickly, so don’t miss out! Open the attachment now to discover how St Clare’s College can be the perfect place for your daughter to learn, grow, and thrive.