Dear Colleagues,

Mother's Day – Sunday 11 May 2025

As Mother’s Day approaches, I think warmly of schools in our Diocese preparing to celebrate the remarkable mothers, grandmothers, and caregivers in their communities.

From handmade cards to heartfelt songs, each gesture reflects the love, gratitude, and creativity of children guided by dedicated teachers to honour this important relationship.

Mother's Day reminds us of schools' vital role in nurturing appreciation, empathy, and the bonds that make families strong.
To each teacher who helps students say "thank you" in their special way, I thank you.

Thank You for our mothers and all who care for us with love.
Bless them for all they do each day —
their kindness, their patience, and their hugs.
Help us show our love and gratitude,
not just today, but every day.

Amen.

Keep School Funding Fair

Last term, we shared information with principals about the Keep School Funding Fair campaign launched by Catholic Schools NSW.

Research shows that less than half of Australians know how our school system is funded.

The Keep School Funding Fair campaign aims to explain the Australian school funding system to all Australians. 

Both state and commonwealth governments contribute funds to support school choice and to ensure that every Australian child gets a high-quality education.

In Australia, school choice ensures that parents can choose a school that best suits their child's needs and their family values.

We believe the current means-tested school funding system is the fairest way to provide opportunities for all children and choice for all families. That’s why the campaign is seeking the support of the Australian community to keep school funding fair.

If you feel it appropriate, consider sharing an update about this campaign or some of these resources below in your following school newsletter. A poster for your school reception is attached.

Resources:

Watch the video to find out how schools are funded.

Sign up to the Keep School Funding Fair campaign or learn more here.

Read more detail about how Catholic schools are funded.

St Francis Xavier’s Primary School, Belmont

It’s always fantastic to have positive word of mouth from our families, especially when they are on a video, such as this parent from St Francis Xavier’s Primary School at Belmont.

Watch it here now:

Annual School Visit – St John’s Primary School, Lambton

I sincerely thank Shannon McGregor and her staff for their commitment to our students and the Lambton school community. St John’s is a single stream school, occupying a small environmental footprint, but big on passion and heart.

St John’s promotes a strong learning culture, encouraging all students to pursue the highest level of achievement. Our Walks and Talks revealed confident, articulate, reflective learners who keenly shared their learning goals and the influence of committed and caring teachers and staff.

Thank you for your vital role in creating a nurturing and inspiring learning environment. As we continue this journey together, I encourage you to take pride in the impact you make every day.

With my best wishes,

Jacqui