Dear Families,
As it is the last week of the school year, the Newsletter is being distributed on a Monday (as opposed to the usual Thursday). Please take the time to read the details which follow.
Reflections, acknowledgements and farewells
We are fast approaching the end of the year. As 2021 does indeed draw to a close, I reflect on the challenges and successes that have transpired throughout the course of the last 12 months. I think it is always a worthwhile endeavour as a family to do the same; that is to have a conversation with your child, asking about their: achievements; most enjoyable learning moments; for what there is to be grateful at this time; and to think about areas for growth moving ahead.
I express my gratitude for your support this year, and the care and encouragement you have shown to each other. I also wish to acknowledge the many parents/carers, grandparents, and other members in the community who have generously given their time to make St Joseph’s Payneham a better place.
It is at this time we say ‘goodbye’ to some people who are leaving the St Joseph’s community.
Fr Allan Winter: After 34 years as Parish Priest at Payneham and 50 in the priesthood, Fr Allan is retiring in just under a month’s time. Whilst Parish Priest at Payneham, Fr Allan has been extremely involved in the school.
Fr Allan has consistently celebrated Year Level Masses every term, as well as School Masses, and has also had heavy involvement in the Sacramental program and celebrations.
On behalf of the St Joseph’s School community, we are extremely grateful to Fr Allan, for his dedication, open-mindedness, support and presence over 34 years.
Matthew Annetta: As was mentioned in a Term Three Parent Newsletter, Matthew has been successful in achieving a permanent teaching position at Whitefriars Catholic School, Woodville Park.
Whilst this is fabulous news for Matthew, as he will be much closer to home in a new school environment, it is a big loss for St Joseph’s. Matthew has been at Payneham for 8 years, teaching upper primary students. Those who have been lucky enough to be involved with Matthew know he is an excellent teacher and very well-respected colleague.
James Cummings: As was also stated in a late Term Three Parent Newsletter, James has obtained a permanent teaching position at Our Lady Queen of Peace School, Albert Park.
Great news for James, but again, sad for St Joseph’s to be losing a fine person and educator. James has been at Payneham for 4 years, teaching junior primary students. He has left a big mark on the children and their families. Like Matthew, James is highly regarded in the community.
Jane Anthony: It has only been since July that Jane commenced at St Joseph’s, as one of the mid-year Reception teachers. Jane is leaving Payneham, to take up a junior primary teaching at St Thomas’ Goodwood. In the space of less than 6 months, Jane has left a sound impression on her young students and admiration from families and colleagues.
Year 6 Graduates: Our wonderful Year 6s have a couple of days remaining as students at St Joseph’s Payneham. They have been resilient, adaptable and fine examples for the younger children. I thank the Year 6s for their contributions and vitality in their time at the school. Congratulations to the Class of 2021!
For other students and families not returning to St Joseph’s Payneham, thank you for your involvement in our community and for making it a richer place, as a result of you being here. May the road ahead be one of learning, adventure and connections with new and old friends.
Second Semester Report, Classes and Orientation for 2022
This afternoon, when you receive your child’s Second Semester Report, you will also have notification indicating your child’s class teacher for next year. Your response is important, as it can determine your child’s attitude and mindset for 2022.
Students will spend a little time with their 2022 teacher and peers this Wednesday 8 December. The intention is to reduce some of the anxiety that can exist for certain students. Knowing who is in their class, who is teaching them and being excited about the year ahead, generally helps our students to be ready for the challenges and opportunities of the new year.
Building work, 2022
Over the holiday break, the current transportable learning space (located in the south eastern corner of the school), which houses two of our current Reception classes, will be moved into the northern end of the Staff Carpark.
This is occurring so a proposed new two-level building can be built on the eastern side of the school (where the current cottage garden area and transportable now sit). The new structure will be a high-quality, eight classroom (with added facilities and amenities) structure. We are anticipating that building work will commence in late March 2022, and the new learning spaces open in time for the start of the 2023 school year.
The endeavour is for the transportable to be removed from the staff car park at the end of 2022. On that note, I assure you that all the current features of the transportable will continue to be in place next year. Of course, the teaching, learning, wellbeing and safety of students will in no way be compromised.
Further, as the transportable will take away some staff car parking, we have been fortunate to have extra parking allocation for staff granted. Additionally, as mentioned in my Week 5 Parent Newsletter, the school recently purchased the property on the corner of Tarcoma Avenue and Portrush Road. We are aiming to transform the land into a parent and visitor car park in the very near future.
I will keep you posted to future developments as they arise.
End of Year Christmas Concert thanks
Our End of Year Christmas Concert, celebrated on Thursday 25 November was
a fantastic community event with a positive vibe. I am grateful for your attendance. The children were joyous in performing and looked spectacular on the stage.
I wish to acknowledge those who provided food and drinks for the evening; the Parent and Friends for their support; and especially Aly Giannitto, who did the lion’s share of work in organising the catering and promoting the event. Also, a large thank you to Rostrevor College, who kindly supplied the stage.
Lastly, as mentioned in my wrap-up on the night, a big congratulations to our Music Teacher, Mrs Emma Hills, our Italian Teacher, Mrs Emily Parrella and the school’s singing Teacher, Mrs Julia Johnson; as they spent considerable time planning and preparing the children for the event.
End of Year School Mass
Our End of Year Mass will also be occurring this Wednesday 8 December. Due to current indoor restrictions, only students and staff will be attending.
2022 School Commencement date and ‘Meet the Teacher and Family Day’
The first day of school for students will be Monday 31 January 2022, beginning at 8:45am. The ‘meet the teacher and family day’, whereby you, your child and the class teacher(s) have the opportunity to meet for a short period of time, will occur on Friday 28 January. This afternoon, information will be sent home providing details, including booking arrangements.
Conclusion of the school year
Term Four, and the end of the 2022 school year, concludes this Thursday 9 December at 3:00pm (the final day for our Year 6 students is this Wednesday 8 December).
This Thursday will be a Casual Clothes Day with a donation to the Vinnies Christmas Appeal. Any non-perishable food item or a gift for a child (unwrapped) will be appreciated (to be brought to either the classroom or Parish Hall kitchen).
Once again, thank you for your support this year. I trust everyone will have a safe and positive festive season and upcoming school holiday break.
Wishing you well!
Simon Mechis
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