Dear St John Paul II community,

As we reach the conclusion of another busy and productive semester, I would like to acknowledge the commitment, perseverance and growth demonstrated by our students. The end of semester reports provides an important opportunity to celebrate achievements while also reflecting on the learning journey that continues beyond any single assessment or reporting period.

School reports are far more than a summary of grades. They offer valuable feedback about students' strengths, areas for improvement and next steps in learning. We encourage all students and families to engage thoughtfully with the feedback provided by teachers. Learning is developmental in nature; it is a process of continual growth rather than a destination. The most successful learners are those who use feedback constructively, embracing challenges and identifying opportunities for improvement. By reflecting on their progress and setting future goals, students develop the habits and mindset necessary for lifelong learning.

This semester has also seen the continued success of our Spill the Tea Café at Nirimba. The café has become a valued part of our school community, providing Senior Hospitality students with authentic opportunities to develop and demonstrate their Vocational Education and Training (VET) competencies in a real-world setting. Beyond supporting student learning, Café Club has become a wonderful gathering place for staff, fostering collegiality and connection over a delicious coffee prepared by our talented students. The professionalism and enthusiasm shown by our Hospitality students continue to impress all who visit.

Our Year 9 and Year 10 Reflection Days were another highlight of the semester. These experiences provided students with the opportunity to step away from the busyness of daily life and reflect on their relationship with God, themselves and others. Through prayer, discussion and personal reflection, students were encouraged to deepen their understanding of faith and to encounter Christ in meaningful ways. Such opportunities remain an important part of our mission as a Catholic school, nurturing the spiritual growth and wellbeing of every young person in our care.

Last week, our school community once again demonstrated its commitment to service and social justice through our annual Winter Sleep Out. This important event raises awareness of the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness and encourages us to reflect on the dignity and worth of every person. While one night outdoors cannot replicate the reality faced by those without secure housing, it provides a powerful reminder of the hardships many people endure each day. I thank our students, staff and families for their generosity and support of this initiative, which reflects our shared commitment to standing in solidarity with those most in need.

As the semester concludes, I thank our students, staff and families for their ongoing partnership in making our school a vibrant learning community grounded in faith, excellence and service. I wish everyone a safe and restful break and look forward to the opportunities and achievements that await us in the semester ahead.

God Bless

Mr R. Muscat

Attendance

School attendance plays a critical role in enhancing the lives of children and young people. Every day of attendance adds to a student’s opportunity to learn, develop and experience success in education.

Last week a large number of letters were sent home to families to explain absences. These will be recorded as unjustified after 7 days. It is disappointing to note that many absences were noted on the recent Reflections Days. Part of your agreement with the College was full participation in the Prayer life of the College. These days are normal school days and full attendance is expected.

Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) works in partnership with parents to encourage and support regular attendance of children and young people at school.

Some information regarding attendance is listed below:

What are my legal responsibilities ?

Education in New South Wales is compulsory for all children between the ages of six years and below the minimum school leaving age. The Education Act 1990 requires that parents ensure their children of compulsory school age are enrolled at, and regularly attend, school or are registered with the New South Wales Education Standards Authority for homeschooling. Once enrolled, children are required to attend school every day it is open for students.

What if my child has to be away from school?

On occasion, your child may need to be absent from school. Justified reasons for student absences may include:

• being sick, or having an infectious disease

• having an unavoidable medical appointment

• being required to attend a recognised religious holiday

• exceptional or urgent family circumstance e.g. attending a funeral.

Following an absence from school you must ensure that within 7 days you provide your child’s school with a verbal or written explanation for the absence. However, if the school has not received an explanation from you within 2 days, the school may contact you to discuss the absence.

Principals may decline to accept an explanation that you have provided if they do not believe the absence is in the best interest of your child. In these circumstances your child’s absence would be recorded as unjustified. When this happens the principal will discuss their decision with you and the reasons why.

Principals may request medical certificates or other documentation when frequent or long term absences are explained as being due to illness.

Principals may also seek parental permission to speak with medical specialists to obtain information to collaboratively develop a health care plan to support your child. If the request is denied, the principal can record the absences as unjustified.

What if there is a need for travel?

Families are encouraged to only travel during the school holidays. If travel during the school term is necessary, discuss this with your child’s school principal. An Application for Extended Leave will need to be completed at least 4 weeks before intended leave. Absences relating to travel will be marked as leave on the roll and therefore contribute to your child’s total absences for the year.

School Fees:

The 2nd Installment of School Fees are now Overdue with the 3rd Installment being issued in Week 7 of Term 3.  Please reach out to the College if you are having trouble making payment.  A huge thank you to those families who have paid in full. This enables the College to provide essential services and undertake maintenance throughout the upcoming Term Break.

Facilities and Maintenance:

The school holidays are a great opportunity to tackle some significant maintenance works around the Campuses especially as the winter months are slower growing. These holidays include servicing of the College’s Kiln, air conditioning units, auto-gates, pressure cleaning of buildings, testing and tagging of electrical items and pest treatments. In addition, some tree work is taking place to prevent building damage and limb dropping. Recent Mulching works have ensured that our gardens are being uplifted and the College is a welcoming environment to students, staff and visitors.