Friday was wonderful to have all children back onsite for face-to-face learning and even brighter time with friends! It certainly has been a long journey to get to this point and we again thank everyone for your unwavering support. 

This week we celebrate the Grade 2 children's First Reconciliation. Although this will look different to past years, the importance of the sacrament and the opportunity to participate continue to be foremost in our plans. Fr Minh has supported the children in providing the chance to celebrate the culmination of a large amount of preparation. A special thanks to the Grade 2 teachers and Mrs Thurley who have been so committed to the program and supporting the children. We ask that the children and their families are part of your prayers this week especially Thursday when they will receive the sacrament for the first time. 

The changing landscape of being a COVID safe school means we are prepared for a possible case within the school population. Attached to the newsletter is a letter outlining the process should this occur. In addition, we are aware that it can take some time to get tested at the moment and that students may miss school.

It is unreasonable to expect that teachers who are teaching onsite will be able to provide remote learning material so we ask you to refer to the term unit newsletter for content that will be covered at school. We recommend that students continue to work on Reading, Writing and Number skills if they find themselves at home.

As the students and staff return to school, please be reassured that the advice regarding ventilations, mask wearing for students in Grade 3-6 and sanitising will be followed and students will not be assembling across groups. It is imperative that students are well when they come to school. Any child who comes to school unwell will be sent home for the safety of all onsite. We appreciate your support in this matter.

Our junior swimming program will also begin shortly and permission notes and a questionnaire regarding swimming ability has been sent through PAM. We ask that Foundation – Grade 2 parents complete this as soon as possible. We will be swimming at Gurri Wanyarra in Kangaroo Flat, however unlike past years, parents will not be permitted to 'watch'.

Finally, again we are steadily making preparations for 2022 and I would appreciate families letting me know should you be leaving Holy Rosary for any reason. It is important in our planning to know who will begin the year with us. 

Paul Wilkinson
Principal