Term 2 Week 1

Dear Families

How lucky have I been? Coming back to a place which I have such great memories of during a time of further improvements – new admin building. When I arrived to meet with Luke during Week 9 I could not believe the amazing changes which had taken place, grounds, classrooms, hall. Then I was informed that the only place I recognised, the admin area, was awaiting a transformation. You must all be so proud of the facilities which you and your children get to share.

In Week 11 there was a lot going on in prep for the renovations, for example the relocation of the admin area into the Yr 5/6 classroom. It was a smooth transition as Luke had planned this extremely well and the staff worked really well together in a cooperative way. Work commenced late during Week 11 and has continued during the holiday period. The staff and students have returned to a very active work site with a proposed finish date of the end of Week 2. I would like to thank the staff for their cooperation, input, help and patience during this period of change.

The facilities aren’t the only thing that have impressed me during my time here – the staff have been extremely welcoming and helpful. The students have been amazing – you should be really proud of them as they way they interact when you converse with them is excellent. They are genuine in their interest in you and therefore carry out warm and friendly conversations.

During Week 11 we hosted the Kenyan Dance group - this was a great opportunity to engage with another culture and celebrate diversity. The way our students participated and engaged in the dances displayed a level of confidence and maturity.

On a personal note, I was humbled on the Friday afternoon of week 11 when I received a visit from 3 young men whom I had the pleasure of teaching many, many years ago – thanks Nick, Joel and Clinton – you made my trip!!

During the holidays an arborists undertook work on the tree in the playground – ensuring its safety and longevity, as mentioned – the builders maintained their progress, our school was well represented by staff and students as they laid a wreath at the Yorketown ANZAC Day Ceremony – an action that will take on even more relevance to our senior class as they take part in a visit to the Canberra War Memorial as part of their Canberra Trip. Again, I was impressed that staff and students were quick to take up the invitation to attend the service and represent the school.

This week we have welcomed Keyara Tucker (Mon & Tues) and Ash Biddell (Wed, Thur, Fri) as teachers of the Yr 3/4 class. (We also thank Ngaire Bernhardt as she is assisting during Week 1). Luke is planning an opportunity for the Yr 3/4 parents to catch up with there new teachers as part of week 3 Parent/Teacher interviews.

Attached to the newsletter is a letter from CESA regarding the upcoming election that we have been asked to share.

I’d like to ask you to keep the Catholic Church and its leaders in your prayers and thoughts as they embark on the process of appointing a new Pope.

Again, sincere thanks for the privilege of returning to St Columba’s – I’ve loved it.

Regards

Peter Shearer

https://www.catholic.au/s/article/Election-Statement-2025

Our school has been lucky enough to receive a huge parcel of food tech equipment from OzHarvest to support the 'FEAST' program.

We have received $1300 worth of equipment, and will also receive a $350 Woolworths voucher to spend on ingredients to support the program. The FEAST program will be rolled out across the school in our food tech lessons, and will also support learning within the school garden and Green Space. FEAST aims to incorporate sustainability and food waste prevention into schools, encouraging students to have a connection with food preparation, and will build on our existing foundation of kitchen and gardening understanding, and safety procedures.

This is a really exciting opportunity to extend our already flourishing Food Tech program, and support students to further increase their knowledge and experience in the kitchen and the garden.

.

Saturday May 3rd - get your vote in then come and create with us! Featuring artist Alexandra Burford and ecologist Andre Oritz. Nature Studio is a free community art event which invites people of all ages and abilities to celebrate their local landscape through art. Working alongside an experienced local artist mentor, participants are invited to bring drawing or painting equipment, cameras or tablets and to create a piece of art which responds to the environment and the artist's connection to place. A selection of art materials will also be available for trial on the day alongside a coffee van - lunch provided.

Register for the Free event here: https://www.countryarts.org.au/wp/?ff_landing=85

Sunday May 4th brings a chance to visit the Minlagawi Gum Flat Reserve and learn about Nharangga science, knowledge, skills, culture and caring for Country. The day will include a dance performance, footy clinic, guided walks, Nharangga Artist Market, live music, a panel session and much more.

Let us know you'll attend here - https://events.humanitix.com/nharangga-cultural-day-2025?hxchl=mkt-loc&hxref=australia%2Fkadina