Dear Parents and Carers,

Welcome to the 2020 school year!  There has been a very settled atmosphere around the school over the last two days even for our new students. Thank you to the teachers and the families who prepared so well for the beginning of the school year. It was great to see so many people at our first morning assembly and sharing in the moment.

Welcome to our 23 new Kindergarten students and welcome to the 17 other children who have joined us across the classes. Welcome also to the many new families that have become a part of the St Benedict’s community and story. We look forward to getting to know you and working with you over the coming years.

We have two upcoming events that invite not only our new families and students to attend but all community members. They are our Opening School Mass this Friday 7^th February at 10am and our Meet and Greet next Thursday evening the 13^th February. We hope to see as many parents and families at these wonderful community events.

Bushfire Support
With the devastation of the recent catastrophic bushfires and ongoing bushfire threat in the ACT, it is hard not to be affected or immune to what has gone on. It has continuously played out across our televisions, newspapers, radio and social media. I am sure every member of the community has a story to share about their recent experience or that of someone they know. There are many resources available to support the community and in particular children. Our new school counsellor Laura is trained in  running the ‘Stormbirds’ program, a program that is designed to support children who have experienced the trauma of bushfires. If you or your child needs any type of support please do not hesitate to contact the school. If you think your child would benefit from participating in this program please let me know.

Bushfire Response Plans and Hot Weather and Air Quality Risk Assessment
I would like to assure all members of the community that staff, under the guidance of Catholic Education, has revisited our Emergency Response Plans, Bushfire Policy and Bushfire Emergency Plan. Due to recent events and conditions we have also created a Hot Weather and Air Quality Risk Assessment. We will continue monitor the hot weather and air quality throughout each day, and will respond accordingly to the conditions. Students will be kept inside in air conditioned rooms if the weather is too hot and the air quality is poor, alternatively if you are concerned about your child’s health under these conditions please feel free to keep your child at home.

God bless.

Rachel Smith