During Advent, we not only prepare ourselves to celebrate the birth of Jesus, but we also check in to see if we are doing all the things that will keep us ready to receive Jesus when he comes again. As a family you may like to recommit yourselves to praying daily, reading Scripture, and staying faithful to God’s commandments. Pray together that through this Advent season your family will be more prepared to receive Jesus when he comes again.

God of Love,

Your son, Jesus, is your greatest gift to us.

He is a sign of your love.

Help us walk in that love during the weeks of Advent,

As we wait and prepare for his coming.

We pray in the name of Jesus, our Savior.

Amen.

https://www.loyolapress.com/catholic-resources/liturgical-year/advent/prayers/advent-family-prayer/

2022 Staff

At this time of the year we begin planning for the year ahead. While we still have much to achieve and celebrate this year, we will be saying farewell to some of our much loved staff members as they move on to new and exciting experiences.

We congratulate Brittany Wrigley on her recent engagement. Brittany will be moving to Geelong and has accepted a position at Kardinia International College, Geelong. Maegen Berends is heading back to her home town of Colac and has accepted a position at St Mary’s Primary, Colac.Tayla Kendall has secured a position at St Clements Bulleen, closer to home. I would like to acknowledge their contribution to our school and thank them for all their work to support students, families and staff at our school.

We welcome new full time staff members:

Ciara Geheran who is currently working at St Joachim’s School Carrum.

Jenny Burnet who is currently working at Banyan Fields Primary Carrum Downs.

Tess Carlisle who has just completed her masters of teaching degree.

We also welcome Joelle Diakrousis currently working at St Peter’s East Bentleigh to a part time job sharing position with Megan Moore.

Students will meet their new class and teacher on Monday 13 December.

I wish to also thank and acknowledge Michael Juliff and Kelli Gibbs for their endless support of the Arrowsmith Program at St Catherine’s and St Peter’s. Michael and Kelli have shown great passion for supporting students with needs and have worked extensively with students, families and staff to ensure  the Arrowsmith students grow, learn and succeed.

With the change in governance this year, the Federated Leadership model across the parish schools will conclude at the end of the year. Throughout the last six years Michael Juliff has greatly supported the leadership of the school and has been an outstanding leader and mentor. I will certainly miss Michael’s expertise and guidance. Michael has always demonstrated professionalism, integrity and kindness to everyone he encounters. Our Federated leadership model has provided me with a unique opportunity to work in true partnership with like minded colleagues supporting each other to achieve more, be better, and provide the best possible education for our students.

Next year Kelli will take some leave and we will see her around St Catherine’s in a part-time capacity. Michael will finish up his time at St Catherine’s at the end of the year. Michael is beginning to transition into retirement and will continue to work part- time at St Paul’s and St Peter’s.

Year 6 Graduation

Last year our events for graduation were so successful that we have adopted them again this year. Year 6 students will be having a Big Day Out to Luna Park and a Big Day In at school. Laura Armour has planned some special events for students for their Big Day In. Families are invited to the Year 6 Liturgy at 6:00pm in our parish church, followed by a family picnic on our school oval. A sausage sizzle, drinks and a snack will be provided by the school, along with a graduation cake. Further details will be sent to year 6 families.

Help Needed for year 6 Graduation Picnic

Traditionally our year 5 parents come forward at this time of the year to support  setting up and organising the year 6 graduation family event. If you are able to help, by cooking sausages, setting up the BBQ or packing up on Monday 13 December, please contact Carmel Donlon. carmel.donlon@scmoorabbin.catholic.edu.au

Thank you to our P & F

Many thanks to our P & F and in particular Suzanne for organising the Bunnings BBQ. Thank you to all the parents who volunteered their time to be on the roster for the BBQ. The school appreciates your efforts to raise funds for AV equipment for our school library/learning hub.

School Advisory Council 2022- Nomination

Our school is calling on you to express your interest in being part of the School Advisory Council. We are seeking 2 new members for 2022.  If you are a member of the parish or have children in the school, and wish to be part of our school advisory council,  we would welcome your application in writing, stating why you wish to join and your suitability to Lynda O’Donnell lynda.odonnell@scmooorabbin.catholic.edu.au by Monday 29 November.

Once again thank you to our outgoing members Darren Forner and Natalie Bivano. Darren has served as the chair for three years and Natalie as secretary for one year. If you would like any further information, please contact a member of our school advisory council or Lynda O’Donnell.

Events:

Athletics Day - Tuesday 23 November

2022 Foundation Transition - Wednesday 24 November

Whole Liturgy - St Catherine Laboure- Wednesday 24 November

Kaboom Sports & Footsteps Dance - Thursday 25 November

School Closure - Friday 26 November

2022 Foundation Parent Information Night - Wednesday 1 December

Free Dress Fundraising for St Vincent De Paul -Thursday 2 December

Last day of lunch orders - Friday 3 December

Swimming Years F-4 - Monday 6 - Friday 10 December

Year 6 Big Day Out - Wednesday 8 December

Year 5-6 Beach Program - Thursday 9 & Friday 10 December

Year 6 Graduation Liturgy & Family Picnic - Monday 13 December

Reports go home - Monday 13 December

Year 6 Big Day In - Tuesday 14 December

Foundation Nativity & End of Year Mass - Wednesday 15 December

End of term for students - Wednesday 15 December at 3:30pm

BUNNINGS BBQ

Our first fundraiser out of lockdown, the Bunnings BBQ ran yesterday. We raised just under $1300 to put towards the upgrade of the AV equipment in the learning hub. A big shout out to four of our families who covered a couple of shifts, and all our other volunteers on the day. We cannot do it without you.

We are also grateful for the donations of sauces, drinks, serviettes, from our school community. Not having to purchase these items greatly increased our proffit on the day.

Finally, a big thankyou to our sponsors, Baker's Delight, Southland, and Europa Supermarket. If you have the chance, please stop by and make a purchase and let them know you are from St Catherine's and appreciate their support.