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Vision: Inspired by Christ, we aspire to excellence in learning, living life fully in community
The mission at St Michael’s is to:
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be a vibrant catholic community where all feel safe, valued, loved and respected
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display understanding, compassion and care for others and all creation
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foster dynamic and diverse learning opportunities
How have we lived our vision lately?
Over the past 3 weeks our small community has flourished and come to life with many events that have enabled our students to shine. I am in awe of our Stage 1 classes (Year 1 and 2) and their energetic teachers who led the Christ the King liturgy in Week 7, showing the community what it's like to live like Jesus and be a courageous leader like Jesus. I loved being present for the end of year celebrations for our wonderful Year 6 class of 2024, Jamberoo action Park was a real hit and I am sure will be one for the memory bank. The Year 6 Graduation was a beautiful and special event that honoured the journey of our students and their families. I want to express my gratitude to the wonderful Year 5 Parents, particularly Nicole Brain and the P and F for their support and efforts in planning and organising the dinner and presentation evening and Canteen Kat for the delicious catering. I also want to thank the teachers and staff for their support, especially Mrs Peardon for preparing a lovely liturgy and memorable presentation night.
Last Wednesday we had a working bee afternoon to beautify the front of our school. It was wonderful to see so many staff members and some parents roll up their sleeves and get their green thumbs out to make our school even more amazing than what it already is. A HUGE thank you to Mr Watts who organised the plants, brought tools and worked like a trojan to rip out existing shrubs so we could replant new natives.
As we enter the Advent season, it is a time to reflect on the year that has been, the blessings, the joys and also the challenging and tough times. As we wait and prepare for the birth of Jesus, we look forward in hope to new beginnings, new blessings and new joys. It is the most precious time of the year and it certainly makes me reflect on my purpose and why I get up every day and come to work at our beautiful school. It is the 178 young people who give me hope and joy and the drive to keep moving forward with confidence that each of our students is growing and learning to be the best versions of themselves.
I would like to sincerely thank you for your support throughout Term 4. I have loved leading this very special community and I am looking forward to a wonderful 2025. I wish you and your families a Holy and happy Christmas, filled with love, peace and Joy, just as Jesus brought to the world on Christmas Day over 2000 years ago.
What you need to know about 2025
First day back for students in 2025
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Years 1-6 |
Tuesday 4 February |
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Kindergarten |
Wednesday 5 February |
Bell Time Changes
When we return in 2025, we will have a slight change in bell times. This will NOT impact the start and end of the day. The biggest change is that we will be having LUNCH in the first break and recess in the second break. The reason for this is to encourage students to eat their most wholesome meal earlier in the day rather than recess snacks. A further reason is to have a 2 hour learning block in the morning and a 2 hour learning block in the middle session to get the most out of our students, when they are at their best and most alert in the earlier parts of the day. Canteen Kat has been informed of this change and as a result, the canteen will not be open at the afternoon recess time, however, parents can still order recess items for their children and these will be packaged up and sent to students in a separate bag/packaging with the lunch orders.
Classes for 2025
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Class |
Teacher(s) |
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Kindergarten |
Mrs Katie Kelly |
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Year 1 |
Mrs Pamela Cheetham Mrs Marcia Sepple (Wednesday mornings) |
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Year 2 |
Miss Perri Beringer |
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Year 3 |
Miss Molly McDonell |
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Year 4 |
Mrs Emma Cook |
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Year 5 |
Mr David Ryan |
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Year 6 |
Mrs Ronelle Peardon Mrs Marcia Sepple (Tuesdays) |
Additional Roles
Early Stage 1/Stage 1 Third Teacher - Mrs Shannon Stanizzo
Stage 2 Third Teachers - Mrs Kate Kors and Mrs Danielle Campbell
Stage 3 Third Teacher - Mrs Chelsea McLeod
Physical Education (K-6) - Mrs Danielle Campbell
Creative Arts K-6) - Mrs Laura Aguilera
Diverse Learning Support Teacher/Instructional Leader- Mrs Amy Sammut
Gifted/High Potential/Instructional Coach - Mrs Chelsea McLeod
Religious Education Coordinator - Mrs Ronelle Peardon
Assistant Principal - Mrs Amy Sammut
Principal - Mr James Bryce
Calendar overview
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Week 10 |
Monday 16 December |
Tuesday 17 December |
Wednesday 18 December |
Thursday 19 December |
Friday 20 December |
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Pupil Free Days
Mrs Amy Sammut - Acting Principal
Section 2: Our Catholic Identity: Mrs Ronelle Peardon
As we take some time to reflect, not just on the past three weeks but on the entire year, it can feel overwhelming. Personally, I have cherished the journey laid out before me as the school's Religious Education Coordinator. It has had its twists and turns, but I have held on through it all.
The most special moments are when we see our vision come to life. My heart skips a little when I hear the little ones show true compassion for others and our environment. Their wonderful ideas come to fruition, reflecting their love of learning, our community, and our faith.
I must admit, I couldn't hold it together at the Year 6 graduation liturgy. I truly felt surrounded by love in the room. I hope and pray that the departing Year 6 class understands and appreciates that this doesn't happen everywhere. We have something truly special here.
Thank you to all the parents who have helped in any way throughout the year. I wish you hope, peace, joy, and love during this special time of waiting for the celebration of our Saviour, Jesus.
Let your lights continue to shine and join our community at any of the various Masses throughout the Christmas period. See you there.
The Sacraments of First Penance and Communion
Congratulations to the students that received the sacrament of First Holy Communion over the last few weeks.
Vinnies Appeal:
We are in desperate need of non-perishable items for our Vinnies Christmas Appeal. Our classroom baskets are very bare. Christmas themed items would be wonderful, including bon-bons, Christmas puddings, long life custards etc.
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SUNDAY MASS TIMES Saturday 17:30 Sunday 08:00 |
THIS WEEK’S LITURGIES Monday ——— Tuesday 17:30 Wednesday 09:00 Thursday 09:00 Friday 09:30 |
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Please bring in … one non-perishable item per family each week to weekend Masses to help the needy in the local illawarra area. Thank you for your generosity |
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What’s happening in our Parish:
Thursday, 12 December 16:45 School and Parish Christmas Concert and Dinner
Friday, 13 December 09:30 End of Year School Mass - all welcome
This weekend, 14/15 December: Blessing of the Christmas Crib
This Sunday, 15 December: one Baptism and one Candidate to receive First Communion
19:30 Tuesday, 17 December Reconciliation Rite II
Wednesday, 18 December 09:15 Mass with Year 2 students
17:30 Tuesday, 24 December Christmas Eve Mass in the Parish Church
20:00 Tuesday, 24 December Christmas Night Mass in the Parish Church
09:00 Wednesday, 25 December Christmas Day Mass in the Parish Church
Thursday, 26 December 09:30 St Stephen’s Mass – Boxing Day – public holiday
Friday, 27 December 09:30 Feast of St John – Mass as usual
Wednesday, 1 January 2025 09:00 Mass for Mary Mother of God, and World Day of Peace
CHRISTMAS LITURGIES 2024 – 24 AND 25 DECEMBER
Please note that the Christmas Eve Mass times and venues have changed: this year, both Christmas Eve Masses will be in the church – the first at 5:30pm (17:30) and the second at 8:00pm (20:00). The Christmas Day Mass remains unchanged at 09:00 in the church. Children are welcome at all three Christmas Masses, and are encouraged to dress up as shepherds or angels. Also, bring a bell.
Ronelle Peardon - Religious Education Coordinator
As we approach the end of another fantastic year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the term and share my gratitude. Stepping into the role of Assistant Principal for the term has been an absolute privilege, and I have thoroughly enjoyed working in our vibrant and supportive school community in a different space.
To all the amazing parents, thank you for your continued support, partnership, and trust throughout the year. Your dedication to your children’s growth and learning has been truly inspiring and plays such an important role in our school’s success.
Semester 2 Reports: Student academic reports for Kindergarten to Year 6 will be available on Compass from Friday, 13th December. You will be notified via Compass when the reports are accessible on your child’s profile.
Years 1–6: Reports provide an overview of achievement levels based on the NSW syllabus outcomes, with grades allocated using the Common Grade Scale. A C grade indicates a sound level of achievement, meeting expected outcomes. Descriptions of the scale are included below.
Kindergarten: Kindergarten reports are ungraded, using descriptors Basic, Sound, and Thorough to highlight progress and achievements across all Key Learning Areas.
Optional Parent Teacher Interviews: In Week 10 optional parent-teacher interviews will be offered for any parents wishing to discuss their child’s report. If you wish to book an appointment to meet with your child’s classroom teacher, please contact them via the school email: info@smtdow.catholic.edu.au
RESPECTFUL RELATIONSHIPS NEWS: Our new respect focus is: The fairer you play, the more fun you’ll have in your day!
We’re delighted to share the positive changes we’ve seen over the past few weeks! Students have been using playground equipment safely and responsibly, ensuring everyone has a chance to enjoy it. Games such as handball and soccer have showcased fair play and good sportsmanship, with students taking turns respectfully and making efforts to include others. Across all playground areas, students are resolving differences calmly, showing kindness, and making the most of their time together.
Exciting Playground Updates!
The introduction of free-choice playgrounds has been a hit! Each class now has their own soccer ball, and our playground tubs are overflowing with exciting new additions. We’ve also introduced a passive play area, where students can enjoy quieter activities like chess, snakes and ladders, or card games. This space has become a popular choice for those who prefer a calmer environment during playtime.
To ensure fairness, we’ve implemented a soccer roster so every class has access to the soccer field. Additional nets have opened up spaces for mini soccer games, freeing the basketball court for class basketball games.
Playground Highlights:
Bottom Playground: Volleyball, our kitchen and milk bar, a blackboard area, sensory play activities, and the ninja course.
Top Playground: More space for cricket and handball, providing plenty of opportunities for active play.
Extra Activities: Hall games on Mondays and Tuesdays, the Kindness Club on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and the passive play area for quiet games and relaxation.
With so many options available, students are having more fun than ever! Whether they’re engaging in active sports, enjoying quieter games, or trying out new activities, there’s truly something for everyone.
Kindergarten: 68%
Year One: 77%
Year Two: 62%
Year Three: 56%
Year Four: 48%
Year Five: 95%
Year Six: No data due to Jamberoo
So the Gold Waste Free Warriors for Week 7 are: Year 5 and the Silver Waste Free Warriors for Week 7 are: Year 1. Congratulations to these 2 classes.
Year 6 end of year fun @ Jamberoo Recreation Park: During Week 7, Year 6 visited Jamberoo and had an incredible time filled with fun and excitement! It was a fantastic experience and a wonderful opportunity for everyone involved. We’re excited to share some of the highlights with you!
As we enter the festive season, I wish you all a joyful, peaceful, and holy Christmas. May this special time be filled with rest, love, and quality moments spent with your families. Thank you for a wonderful year, and I look forward to all that lies ahead in 2025!
Chelsea McLeod - Acting Assistant Principal
PAYMENT OF SCHOOL FEES BY INSTALMENT
NEW FAMILIES TO OUR SCHOOL
School Fees are invoiced as an annual account, due for payment in full 30 days after invoicing. However, many families elect to pay their school fees by regular instalments as as a new family to our school, we would like to offer you this option. If you wish to take up this offer, please complete a Request to Pay by Instalment Form which is available on the school’s website or from the school’s administration office. On completion of the request, either email it to instalments@dow.catholic.edu.au or submit it at the school office. Following receipt of the request, instalments will be generated on your school fee account during the process of invoicing 2025 school fees. Your school fee statements are emailed to you and they will provide a list of scheduled payments and their due date.
IMPORTANT: Please note that if you currently have a child or children at another school in the Diocese and you are paying by instalments at this location, you will not need to complete another Request to Pay by Instalment. The instalment request carries over from school to school with the same frequency of payment, eg, weekly, fortnightly etc.
EXISTING FAMILIES IN OUR SCHOOL WITH INSTALMENTS
If you are currently paying by instalments there is no need to complete another Request to Pay by Instalment as your request carries over from year to year unless you wish to amend the frequency of your payments, eg. weekly to fortnightly.
EXISTING FAMILIES IN OUR SCHOOL WITHOUT INSTALMENTS
If you would like to pay school fees by instalments in 2025 and have not taken up this option for payment, please complete a Request to Pay by Instalments Form which is available on the school’s website or from the school’s administration office. On completion of the request either email it to instalments@dow.catholic.edu.au or submit it at the school office. Following receipt of the request, instalments will be generated on your school fee account during the process of invoicing 2025 school fees. Your school fee statement will provide a list of scheduled payments and their due date depending on the frequency you have chosen. Eg, fortnightly, monthly etc.
IMPORTANT: Please note that if you currently have a child or children at another school in the Diocese and you are paying by instalments at this location, you will not need to complete another Request to Pay by Instalment. The instalment request carries over from school to school with the same frequency of payment, eg, weekly, fortnightly etc.
Social Media
With so much going on at school, a great way to follow any up and coming events and read about the great things that are happening, please follow us on:
Instagram- stmichaels.thirroul or Facebook-St Michael's Catholic Primary School, Thirroul.
Congratulations to the following students who received awards at previous assemblies:
Principals Award
Arlo T
Willa W
Poppie T
Lulu U
Aubrey R
Joanna L
Asher D
Hugo R
Ethan Z
Gold Award
Lila H
Nate R
St Michael's Blue
Lila H
P&F update
