Dear Parents, Carers, and Students

‘Let your light shine’ was the theme of the Year 12 Retreat and the students were magnificent! I was in the privileged position of being able to lead the retreat for our young men and women. Our world is in good hands after seeing the level of engagement our Year 12 cohort showed in the program. I hope they always let their light shine. One of the highlights was the dance party. They have some groovy moves!!! This experience explored their relationships with themselves, God, family, and friends and asked them to determine what their values are and to stand tall. I hope this influences them for many years to come. This morning I went up to where the homerooms are and the junior students had written messages for the seniors which were up on the walls. The seniors were so surprised and pleased by the messages. They thought it was wonderful! Thank You to our juniors and in particular to the Kembla students whose messages were extra thoughtful and passed on some good advice as well. 

There is a small element of our community that is not aligned with the values of Joey’s. It is disappointing that they are not embracing the way of Jesus. The values of tolerance, peace, and compassion are central to being at Joey’s. It is very concerning that some students are not keeping to the values of the school and feel that the school has to put up with how they behave, which is not the case. Students have a responsibility to follow the school rules. Intimidating or violent behaviour has no place at Joey’s and continued behaviour in this manner will meet with significant consequences. I am also disappointed to hear about students filming and passing on inappropriate behaviour. Given the level of education they receive around this issue, I thought they should have known better and I would ask parents to reinforce their responsibilities in using a service in this regard. 

We are coming up to the School Cross Country day. The last one was rained out so hopefully, the weather will remain fine for next week. It is a great community experience so I highly encourage full student participation.

Over the next two weeks, we will be doing a two part Easter Liturgy. A whole school element prior to Palm Sunday followed by a class element. This will allow students to engage at a deeper level with the story and impact of Easter as this is central to our Christian tradition. 

Staff Changes

We say goodbye to Mrs Kim Heggen SSSO who has moved to a position at the Catholic Education Office and Ms Brittany Sharkey who has also taken a position as a Professional Officer for a short term contract. We wish them well in their new endeavours and thank them for all the service to St. Joseph’s they have given over the years.

We welcome and congratulate Mrs Penny Corradini who is the new SSSO and wish her well as she undertakes this significant position. We welcome Mr Joshua Mucveski to staff as part of the PDHPE staff. He will be sharing with Mrs Smith. 

Ms Wilson

Principal

Regards

Amanda Wilson

Principal