Dear Parent and Carers,

Woo hoo! It has been wonderful to finally be able to welcome back all our children to school. This lockdown was even longer than the last time, and with COVID-19 continuing to move through the community this time, I think it was a little more difficult on everyone. Today was the first time in nearly three months that students got to see many of their classmates and teachers other than on the screen. This morning the sun was shining as the red-carpet treatment was rolled out for our returning students. There were smiles and laughter all around, particularly from the parents! Almost every teacher, including those not on duty, came out to welcome everyone back to school. The teachers were thrilled to be back in person with their classes and routines were re-established with lots of emphasis on re-connection and wellbeing. Our school again feels alive and vibrant!

Thank you to parents for supporting the school and arranging pick up locations off site for your children. This has certainly assisted the students and school with a smooth departure at the end of the day. 

Semester Two Reports

Teachers have begun writing Semester Two Reports for each child. Though much of the semester has seen students learning from home, we will still assess and provide grades for a number of curriculum areas.

We have, along with all CE schools, moved to the Schools Administration System, Compass, for the compilation of semester reports. Though the process for teachers has changed, the result will look familiar. The slight change this semester is the inclusion of a teacher comment.

On Friday 3 December, your child’s report will go live on your Compass portal. This will allow you to view it immediately, online, and print it if you wish. Helpful instructions will be sent to all families closer to the date.

COVID Safe Measures

Please refer to the letter posted on Compass and SZapp on Monday for the latest update regarding COVID safe measures. At a time when restrictions are being eased across the community, in schools we are still obliged to function under some very restrictive measures.

We do so, however, with a positive mindset, knowing it is for the safety of all our students, families and staff. Parents are reminded, that as in all schools in the ACT, visitors are not permitted unless for essential purposes. If you wish to meet with a teacher, please contact the front office to arrange a mutually convenient time and method.

Last Friday 29th October, World Teacher's Day was celebrated in Australia. On your behalf I would like to say thanks and acknowledge our teachers and staff who make St Benedict’s an incredible school for our students. If you have any spare time, perhaps take a minute to send a word of thanks to one of our staff. I am sure they would appreciate the gesture :)

Stay safe and healthy.

God bless.

Rachel Smith

Principal