Dear Parents and Carers

At St. Mary’s, we believe that every student can learn and grow in an environment where they feel safe, happy, and respected. That’s why we use a Whole School Approach to Positive Behaviour Support WSAPBS—so that everyone knows how we treat each other and how we can make our school a great place to be.

Respect is about treating others the way we want to be treated. We show respect when we:

• Use kind words
  
  
• Listen when someone is speaking.
  
  
• Help each other
  
  
• Take care of our school and everything in it.
  
  

We practise these behaviours every day—in the classroom, in the hallways, and especially out in the playground.

The playground is where we make friends, play, and have a great time. To help everyone enjoy this time, we talk to students about how to:

• Include others in games
  
  
• Use friendly words and tone.
  
  
• Take turns and share.
  
  
• Say “It’s okay” or “Let’s try again” when someone makes a mistake.
  
  
• Ask a teacher for help if something feels unfair or upsetting.

When we all work together—students, staff, and families—we create a school environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging.

Thank you for helping us make St Mary’s a kind, respectful, and positive place for learning and growth!

Maria

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

Happy Birthday to the following students who have upcoming birthdays:

We hope you have a wonderful day. 

Mental Health and Wellbeing News

Dear Parents and Carers,

This week, our students took part in Australia’s Biggest Anti-Bullying Lesson, led by Kids Helpline. It was an exciting opportunity to be part of a national event that encouraged children to think deeply about kindness, respect, and how we can all play a role in stopping bullying.

The lesson included a mix of stories, real-life scenarios, videos and interactive activities. Students explored:

• Understanding bullying – what it is, what it isn’t, and how it can make people feel.
• Recognising the difference between friendly joking and hurtful behaviour.
• Learning safe responses – what children can do if they see or experience bullying, including seeking help from a trusted adult.
• The power of being an ‘upstander’ – choosing to speak up or support someone, rather than being a bystander.
• Practising empathy and kindness – noticing how others feel and choosing words and actions that build people up.

This lesson also sits beautifully alongside the work we are doing through the Resilience Project, where students are learning to practise Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness (GEM) each day. The anti-bullying lesson reinforced these same skills in action – showing gratitude by appreciating others, using empathy to understand how someone might feel if they are being left out or hurt, and practising mindfulness to pause and choose kind words and actions. Together, these programs give our students practical tools to build strong friendships, support one another, and create a safe and positive school culture.

The lesson also highlighted the importance of reaching out for help. Kids Helpline reminded students that they are never alone and that they can talk to a parent, teacher, or trusted adult. They also learned that Kids Helpline is always available, 24/7, by calling 1800 55 1800 or visiting kidshelpline.com.au for free and confidential support.

This national initiative reinforced a vital message – every child deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued. As a school community, we are proud to be part of this movement and will continue to foster inclusion, empathy, and respect in our classrooms and playgrounds.

Together, we can make a real difference in creating safe and supportive environments where all children can thrive.

If you would like any further information or have any questions, do not hesitate to contact me.

Deb Owens

Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader

Another successful Eisteddfod is behind us, and we would like to congratulate all our winners. Our Seniors won First place for their brilliant play.

Thank you to all our staff members who worked so hard and tirelessly to prepare. Well done to all our students, we are very proud of your efforts.