You will have received correspondence that outlines the new regulations as communicated by the Premier on Wednesday and which come into effect next Monday. It will be wonderful to have assemblies once again and to have the girls interact with each other as they did in 2019. We need to continue to be mindful though that we are living in a pandemic and whilst the restrictions have started to ease, the pandemic continues to be very prevalent in our community. I urge you to continue with your vaccinations and to use some caution in the choices you make. If you present with symptoms, do not come to school and use a rapid antigen test to determine if you have contracted the virus. We must all remain vigilant in keeping ourselves and each other safe.

We are hosting three key events in the next few weeks. This Saturday, we will again host our Open Day. You may recall the time you brought your daughter to the College and the impact this day had on her as she was deciding which school she would attend for high school. Our staff and girls will all be ready to once again display what the College has to offer the Year 5 and 6 girls who will be visiting. If you would like to come along or bring a friend or family member, you are most welcome. The COVID restriction have meant we have had to adjust some of our activities, however, it will be a very interactive and engaging day for all our visitors.

Thursday 3 March is our International Women’s Day breakfast. Each year we welcome back some alumni to speak about what they have done since leaving the College and what impact St Pat’s has had on their growth and development. It is always a very inspiring morning. As an all-girls College, it is very important to celebrate the success of our women and provide those girls who are growing up with good role models they can watch and emulate. This year we have Mrs Monique Keogh and Ms Esther Adeyinka speaking. Both are wonderful women who will be very insightful and engaging. Please see the flyer attached to this edition.

The Emerald Gala Ball will be held on Saturday 19 March in The Cube at the Campbelltown Catholic Club. We have had many families and businesses donate generously for the silent auction and raffle prizes. The aim of the night is to raise funds for the scholarship fund. Many families access the scholarship fund when they experience hardship so that their daughter can continue in an all-girls learning environment. It is always a fabulous night with great food and great entertainment. COVID restrictions have now been lifted in hospitality venues, so we will be able to dance and have the best night. I urge you to buy a ticket for the night. I can assure you, you will not be disappointed. You may still like to donate an item or an experience that we can use to raise funds. All will be very gratefully received.

Finally, I would like to welcome Ms Ashleigh Young, our newest teacher. Ms Young replaces Mrs Boulatsakos and will be teaching RE and PDHPE. We also welcome back Mrs Tracey White, in a learning support role. I am sure you will give them both a warm welcome. Next Wednesday, we will be celebrating Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent. Lent is a time for us to reflect, pray and prepare for Easter. I leave you with a prayer noting the start of this church season.

Gracious God today begins a period of inner reflection and examination. The days stretch before me and invite me inward to that silent, holy space that holds your Spirit. This special time beckons me to see my life through Christ's eyes and the truth and reality of your love incarnate. Give me the grace to enter the space of these days with anticipation of our meeting. And, when I open my soul to your presence, let your loving kindness flow over me and seep into the pockets of my heart. I ask this for the sake of your love.

Blessings

Sue Lennox - Principal