2023 Principal ACM Report by melmaria1

Mel Maria Catholic Primary School Annual Community Meeting 21 November 2023

Mel Maria Catholic Primary School Principal Report We are Called to Serve The calling of a Catholic school today is to be prophetic and to keep before students the values of Jesus in the contemporary world’ (Mandate 33). Catholic schools impact the broader society by fostering a Catholic worldview. They form young people who are committed “to the love, compassion and justice of the Gospel of Jesus Christ” (Mandate 6).

Every action we take within our Catholic schools revolves around illuminating the path of Christ's Gospel for our students across all facets of their education. Our calling urges us to radiate the joy of our faith through the unique gifts and talents we bring to our work. We're challenged to bring out the best in one another, both amongst the staff and in the children, we've been entrusted with. As disciples of Jesus, our calling is to be actively involved, and as educators in a Catholic school, we make the Good News tangible through our words and actions. At Mel Maria Catholic Primary School, we acknowledge each child as a precious gift from God, bestowed with their unique talents and abilities. In this recognition, we cultivate an environment that cherishes their individuality while fostering a love for learning. Our comprehensive learning program offers diverse educational experiences, ensuring that every individual can savour the fruits of accomplishment and success. On behalf of the dedicated staff at Mel Maria Catholic Primary School, I extend my congratulations to all students and their families for their unwavering efforts and support throughout the school year. We are indeed fortunate to have such a devoted and diligent team at Mel Maria, and I genuinely mean this. There's something truly special about this school, and I believe it emanates from our remarkable staff. We are fully aware of our privileged position, granted resources, facilities, and equipment, which we are fortunate to have at our disposal. The essence of the finest education emerges when parents and staff operate as a united team. The enthusiasm, support, and involvement of parents are intrinsic to the school's success, complementing the skills, dedication, and professionalism of our teachers. Together, staff and parents collaborate to provide educational excellence for each student, enabling them to attain their personal best. Our collective efforts nurture a welcoming learning environment where we celebrate our achievements. However, it's essential to always remember the core essence of Primary Education – it's the foundation where we grasp the basics. It's not solely about reading, writing, and arithmetic; it lays the groundwork for all future learning. Primary school is where we first encounter a diverse range of people, outside our family, who may not view us as the epitome of perfection. With the right guidance, attitude from teachers and classmates, we learn to get along with nearly everyone - a valuable life lesson, essential for survival and success in the contemporary world.

‘Primary School’ signifies the place to inculcate a love for learning that will endure into adulthood. Every teacher understands that learning cannot be imposed upon a child who lacks the desire, and conversely, a child with an insatiable curiosity cannot be stopped from learning. Primary school is dedicated to instilling this love of learning, a potent motivator throughout a child's entire academic journey. As a child progresses through primary school, they discover more about themselves, gain self-confidence, and develop leadership abilities. Succumbing to the pressure from secondary schools to move children before they complete their primary education, deprives them of the unique opportunities available in smaller primary school environments. Education today grapples with the complexities of external influences, particularly through various media and electronic channels. Mel Maria Catholic Primary School assumes a crucial role in assisting parents in the education of their children, ensuring they develop a sense of personal responsibility and understand the proper utilisation of freedom. Throughout the year, our school has offered experiences of liturgy, prayer, and sacraments, serving as invitations to understand and experience the immense love and special friendship of God. I hope that Mel Maria this year has been a place where staff, students, and families have had the chance to encounter God's presence in their daily lives. I pray that the years ahead will witness staff and parents in genuine partnership for the faith education of the children at Mel Maria Catholic Primary School. Fostering a healthy Catholic Identity is of utmost importance to us. We aspire to be recognised as a Catholic keep the "love of learning" burning brightly.

HISTORY Mel Maria was established in 1973 by the rationalisation of St Joseph Pignatelli Catholic Primary School, Attadale; Corpus Christi Catholic Primary School, Myaree; Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Primary School, Willagee; and the Primary School of Santa Maria. All of these schools existed separately in their own right. However, because of their size and limited resources, they struggled educationally to meet curriculum requirements. Following a series of meetings in 1972 involving the community of each of the schools, it was decided to amalgamate all the schools and Mel Maria came into being. The building of the new church on the Corpus Christi site was seen as an opportune time to rename the parish due to confusion with local parishes of the same name. Following due consideration, the parish and school site was renamed Pater Noster.

Mel Maria today is a tribute to the wisdom and the foresight of the then principal of Corpus Christi, Myaree - Sr. Joan Smith. Though she never worked as such at Mel Maria, she will always be remembered for her work in sowing the seeds from which Mel Maria has grown and blossoms today. The first principal of Mel Maria was Sister Florence O’Sullivan, followed by Sister Marie Fitzgerald, Mrs Janet Purcell (first lay principal), Mr Michael Smith and recently until 2020, Mr Gregory Stinton. The name ‘Mel Maria’ was chosen because all three campuses are in the City of Melville. ‘Mel’ comes from the first three letters of Melville and has Irish derivation meaning ‘place’. ‘Maria’ comes from the link with Santa Maria. The McAuley campus was originally the primary school of Santa Maria. As such, Mel Maria means ‘the place of Mary’. The patroness of Mel Maria is Our Lady of Mercy, and her feast is celebrated on September 24.

5Oth ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS This year marked our 50th Anniversary as a school. Our school’s Feast Day is on September 24, and this year, we organised a special celebratory Mass to commemorate this milestone. It was an honour to be joined by some of the Sisters of Mercy who played pivotal roles in the Mel Maria Catholic Primary School journey: • • • • •

Sister Joan Smith, Principal of Santa Maria Primary, who conceptualized the idea of uniting four schools under one name. Sister Florence, the inaugural Principal of Mel Maria CPS. Sister Eileen, the former Principal of St Joseph's Pignatelli. Sister Marie Fitzgerald, a former Principal of Mel Maria CPS. Sister Kathy Kettle, who served in various schools and is also the sister of Father Don.

The Mercy Sisters did not just establish an institution; they created a legacy spanning five decades, characterised by unwavering dedication to Catholic education, faith, and community. Reflecting on the journey of Mel Maria Catholic Primary School fills us with profound gratitude, pride, and nostalgia. Half a century ago, Mel Maria was founded on the Mercy principles of Respect, Compassion, Service, and Justice. It started as four small schools, woven together with the vision of nurturing young minds and instilling values to guide future generations. Today, we stand as a testament to the enduring power of Catholic education and the remarkable spirit of our school community. This moment allows us to honour those who laid the foundation of our school: the devoted educators, visionary leaders, and supportive parents who believed in the transformative power of education. Their unwavering commitment has driven our success.

As we commemorate this milestone, it is essential to reflect on the following values that have been the bedrock of Mel Maria Catholic Primary School: Faith: Our school has always been a place where faith is nurtured, not only in religious teachings, but in the faith, we have in each other, in our abilities, and in our shared mission to make the world a better place. Excellence: Over the years, Mel Maria has strived for excellence in every facet of education. Our commitment to academic achievement, personal growth, and character development has shaped countless lives. Community: Mel Maria is not just a school; it's a family. The sense of belonging and the bonds forged here are what make our school unique. We have always been a close-knit community, supporting and uplifting each other. Justice: Mel Maria has always been a place where every child is welcomed and valued, regardless of their background or abilities. Inclusivity is not just a goal; it's our identity. Compassion: Catherine McAuley's legacy of compassion remains at the heart of Mercy Education. Our commitment to compassion means we not only recognise the suffering and needs of others, but actively striving to alleviate them. It's about seeing the humanity in every individual and responding with kindness, empathy, and support. Service: Service to others is a core value instilled in our students. We encourage them to actively engage in their communities, giving back and making a positive impact. Mercy Education fosters a sense of responsibility and the understanding that education comes with the duty to serve. Hospitality: Catherine McAuley's famous words, "No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted," embody the spirit of hospitality in Mercy Education. We open our doors and hearts to all, creating a welcoming and inclusive community, where everyone feels like they belong. Leadership: We believe that every student has the potential to be a leader. Leadership in Mel Maria Catholic Primary School is not about authority, but about using one's abilities to #MakeADifferenceEveryday in the world, following the example of Catherine McAuley. As we look back on the past five decades, we see a tapestry of stories, achievements, and challenges that have shaped us into who we are today. Our journey is a testament to the enduring power of a dedicated community working together to make a difference in the lives of our students. Looking ahead, we bear the responsibility to uphold the legacy of Mel Maria Catholic Primary School. The next 50 years will inevitably bring new challenges and opportunities, but our core values remain unwavering. Let us continue to nurture faith, strive for excellence, build a strong and supportive community, serve others, and embrace community as we pave the way for future generations. To all the students, staff, parents, alumni, and friends of Mel Maria, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Thank you for your dedication, your passion, and your unwavering belief in the power of a Catholic Education to transform lives. As we celebrate our 50th Anniversary, let us not only look back with pride but also look forward with hope and anticipation. The best is yet to come for Mel Maria Catholic Primary School, and together, we will continue to shine as a beacon of faith, excellence, and community for many more years to come.

MEL MARIA 2025 As we move to our 2025 transition date, there has been a lot of work happening in the background to ensure things are in place for a smooth transition. I would like to share some of the things that we have been working on, to enable this to happen. 1. Early Childhood Position Statement (ECPS) – A team of ECE teachers and education assistances, have been working fastidiously on developing an Early Childhood Position Statement for Pre-Kindergarten to Year Two at Mel Maria Catholic Primary School. This is important, as it will guide and direct the work, we do on the Pater Noster Early Childhood Campus. The school has worked closely with Notre Dame University in this area. 2.

Primary School Position Statement – Similar to the ECPS, a group of primary school teachers and education assistants have come together to develop a position statement for our Year Three to Year Six students. This is critical work, as it will outline a scaffold of what we hope to achieve on the St Joseph Pignatelli Campus.

3. Naturescape Adventure Playground - A fantastic initiative

at the Pater Noster Campus has been designed with both fun and developmental growth in mind. Playgrounds that incorporate nature and adventure elements provide numerous benefits for children, some of which improve cognitive development, social skills, risk taking, sensory development and more.

Undercover Area at Pater Noster Campus (blue carpet area) – Plans have been submitted to redesign a wonderful outdoor learning space that promotes holistic development and joyful learning for children.

St Joseph Pignatelli Courtyard – By prioritising aesthetics, environment, engagement and student well-being, the redesigned St Joseph Pignatelli courtyard will become a cherished and meaningful part of the school environment, contributing to the overall educational experience for students.

School Branding and Marketing – This has been reviewed by the principal, the school leadership team, our marketing staff member, and CEWA are also involved with this development.

School Uniform – Whilst the principal of the school is responsible for the uniform, a committee (including parent representatives) will be set-up to look at redesigning our school uniform to commence in 2025. This committee will give advice and feedback to the leadership team on various school uniform items.

Enrolments – These are continuing to take place with new families that are very excited about the new model being implemented at Mel Maria Catholic Primary School. Regular school tours for prospective families have been held numerous times throughout the year.

School Curriculum At Mel Maria - Planning for the Future In addition to the core academic subjects and other essential components, as a school, our goal is to prioritise innovation and inquiry-based learning within the curriculum. These six fundamental elements, including innovation and inquiry-based learning, are at the forefront of our planning in 2024 and beyond: Core Academic Subjects: As mentioned, core academic subjects like Religious Education, Mathematics, English (Literacy), Science, Physical Education, Performing Arts and Humanities and Social Sciences (HaSS) remain fundamental and are an integral part of the curriculum. Innovation and Inquiry-Based Learning: Foster a culture of innovation and inquiry-based learning. Encourage students to ask questions, explore, and apply critical thinking skills. This approach empowers students to take ownership of their learning, develop problem-solving skills, and become more engaged learners. Cross-Curricular Integration: Promote cross-curricular integration by creating opportunities for subjects to overlap and complement each other. This approach helps students see the interconnectedness of knowledge and encourages a holistic understanding of concepts. Project-Based Learning (PBL): Incorporate project-based learning into the curriculum. PBL encourages students to work on long-term, real-world projects that address complex issues. It emphasises collaboration, research, and problem-solving skills, all of which are essential for future success. Technology and Digital Literacy: Integrate technology and digital literacy into the curriculum. In today's digital age, students need to be proficient in using technology as a tool for learning, creativity, and communication. As a school we support the use of digital resources and ensure students have access to technology. Cultural and Global Competence: Developing a curriculum that includes cultural and global competence is imperative in our planning moving forward. Encouraging students to appreciate and respect diverse cultures and perspectives is critical and helps students become responsible global citizens with an understanding of the world beyond their immediate surroundings. Incorporating these elements into the primary school curriculum requires careful planning, professional development for teachers, and ongoing assessment of student progress. By doing so, as a school, we can help create a dynamic and forward-thinking educational environment that prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

SCHOOL COMMUNITY Parents, we have been in partnership with you and working for the common goal of educating your child. Once again, I would like to give you my heartfelt thanks for all your support during 2023. Parent support and input is valued at Mel Maria Catholic Primary School, and we look forward to continuing this partnership in 2024.

We wish all the best to the Year Six students who are leaving us this year. They have been an outstanding group of students who we have all watched grow and mature. I have certainly been most impressed with the level of leadership they have offered the school and I pray for God’s guidance, as they enter the next phase of their learning journey.

Mel Maria Catholic Primary School continues to make a lasting impression on the lives of those who are associated with our wonderful school. Many of our successful outcomes are achieved because of the fantastic relationships forged between staff, students, and their families. I am extremely proud of the endeavours of our staff who work diligently to make our vison become a reality. It is evident that they are deeply committed to their vocation and continue to support our children to #MakingADifferenceEveryday.

SCHOOL STAFF Leadership Team I would particularly like to make mention and thank the Executive Team: • • • • •

Mrs Rosmuire Nichols Mrs Joanne Scouler Mr Roman Popadynec Mrs Cathleen Massimi Mrs Tia Horsley

This year has been a very challenging year for all of us, particularly as an Executive Team. I am so proud of the Executive Team (and ALL the staff at Mel Maria) for always being professional, respectful, committed, supportive (of me) and dedicated to making Mel Maria the best school it can be. When I watch them go about their work, I can certainly see the ‘face of Jesus’ as they move from one challenge to the next. Much of their work goes unrecognised as it happens behind the scenes, after school and on weekends. Thank you, Ros, Jo, Roman, Cathleen and Tia for all that you have done for the staff, students, and parents this year.

Administration Staff

These dedicated individuals are truly remarkable in the way they approach their daily tasks. They treat each child who visits their office with love and care, fostering unique and heartfelt connections with the children who regularly seek their

support. Managing a school of our size across two campuses is undoubtedly a challenge, but I have never heard them utter a complaint about their workload or responsibilities. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Cathy Cowcher, Mardi Dodgson, Sylvia Tamigi, and Lyn Dowie for their outstanding contributions. These ladies do an enormous amount of work for the school, much of which goes unrecognised and behind the scenes. Thank you for your support and commitment. We recognise Mrs Mardi Dodgson for her outstanding efforts as the Business Manager, especially in overseeing the school's finances. This year, she also provided valuable support to the School Advisory Council Treasurer.

Staff

We are truly fortunate to have an exceptional team at Mel Maria. Our staff comprises of dedicated, passionate, considerate, nurturing, and highly professional individuals who bring their unwavering enthusiasm to the school every single day. They consistently go above and beyond to ensure that our students are treated with the utmost respect and consideration in all circumstances. I'm constantly inspired by the collective effort of our teachers and educational assistants in cultivating strong, meaningful relationships with our students, all with the goal of maximizing their learning potential. It's evident that each of them wholeheartedly cares about their role, regardless of whether they are a Music Teacher, Support Education Assistants, or a Year 3 teacher. Their commitment and dedication are truly commendable. I would like to thank all the teachers and staff who coordinated the following events in the school: •

Sports Carnivals and Events – Mr David John and Mr Damian Williams

•

School Annual and Website - Miss Stephanie Figueira, Mrs Karen Gan and Mr Roman Popadynec with the production of the school annual, as well as work with school policies, handbooks, and procedures

•

Sacraments of Penance - Mr Tim Neill, Mrs Bianca Stewart, Mrs Michelle Fanowrios, Miss Angela Fourie and Mrs Louise Robinson

•

Sacrament of Eucharist– Mrs Cathleen Massimi, Mr Michael Corrie, Mr Owen Connolly, and Mrs Judith Shales

•

Sacrament of Confirmation –Miss Stephanie Figueira, Miss Madelyn Healy, Mr Andrew Carr, and Miss Naomi Smyth

•

Thank you to Fr Don, Fr Joseph, Deacon John, Mrs Trish Spencer, Mr Luke Murphy, and Mrs Genevie Sumich

•

ROBOCUP – Ms Teresa Marra and Mr Roman Popadynec

•

TOMS – Ms Teresa Marra

•

Performing Arts – Mr Luke Murphy, Mrs Trish Spencer and Mrs Genevie Sumich

•

CEWA MAD STEM – Miss Catlin Taylor, Ms Teresa Marra and Mrs Melissa Giancola

•

Speak Up Awards – Mrs Lisa Yensch

To the entire leadership team who helped and supported staff with all the events in the school.

Thank you to all the staff at Mel Maria Catholic Primary School.

Parish Priests A strong and enduring bond exists between the school and both the St Joseph Pignatelli and Pater Noster parishes. This longstanding relationship is readily apparent to the broader community, and it greatly enhances the well-being of the children and their families. The joint sacramental program is a shining example of the seamless and harmonious collaboration between the school and the parishes, all for the benefit of the children. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Fr Don Kettle, Fr Joseph Lee, and Deacon John Kiely for their invaluable contributions to both the school and parish communities. We are truly fortunate to have two priests and a deacon who are deeply invested in the school's mission. I thank each of them for their accessibility to the students and staff, as well as their wonderful collaboration in all aspects of school and parish life. Their time, dedication, and support throughout the year has been greatly appreciated.

WITH THANKS I want to acknowledge and thank our two Parent Representative bodies, namely the School Advisory Council and the P&F Association. I sincerely thank the members of the School Advisory Council for their dedication, professionalism, support, and advice. Each member of the council has been a pleasure to work with over the course of the year. All members are motivated to provide the best opportunities for our children and #MakingADifferenceEveryday at Mel Maria Catholic Primary School.

Catholic School Advisory Committee Functions The Catholic School Advisory Council is established to support the principal to fulfil their responsibilities in leading the Catholic Identity, Education, Community and Stewardship functions of the Catholic School in pursuit of CEWA’s vision to be Christ-centred and child-focused. The Catholic School Advisory Council must carry out the following functions: a) support planning for the present and future operation of the Catholic school; b) provide membership, at the principal’s request, on selection panels for the employment of staff to the Catholic School in accordance with the relevant CECWA Policies and Executive Directives; c) provide membership on the panel that recommends the appointment of a principal in accordance with the relevant CECWA Policy and Executive Directives; d) in consultation with the principal, communicate about the Catholic School and about Catholic education to persons and organisations in the School Community; e) endorse the Catholic School’s annual budget before submission to CECWA for approval; and f) advise the principal on school financial matters such as performance against budget, sustainability, and capital and recurrent planning. Members of the Catholic School Advisory Council provide a service in the Christian tradition, serving the school community according to their particular skills. It is a shared ministry and as such draws upon the shared wisdom in its members, working together as Christians, both to support the ethos of the Catholic school and to provide for the material needs of the school. It is important that School Advisory Councils draw their membership from a broad cross-section of the community. Although we are one school, it would be advantageous to have representatives from both campuses. The Catholic School Advisory Council is responsible to the Bishops of Western Australia through the Catholic Education Commission of WA for planning and for the financial management of the school.

Catholic School Advisory Council School need: • • •

•

Ability to listen and to share ideas. A desire to give service to the Catholic School Community. A keenness to promote Catholic Schooling. An ability to work cooperatively and constructively with all other board members.

This year, I would like to acknowledge the efforts of Mr Anthony Chillino – the School Advisory Council Chair. I thank him for his guidance and expertise, as we enter the next phase of development at Mel Maria. Monique Strauss’ time on the School Advisory Council has come to an end. We thank Monique for her level of professionalism, knowledge and always putting the students first in any decision made at this level. I thank each member of the School Advisory Council for their commitment and support both professionally and personally throughout the year. I would like to recognise the School Advisory Council of 2023 and all the Council Members: Mr Anthony Chillino Fr Don Kettle Deacon John Keily Mrs Tanya Woods Mrs Monique Strauss Mr Michael Ballem Mrs Ros Nichols Mrs Joanne Scouler Mr Roman Popadynec Mr Paul Hille

Board Chairperson Parish Priest - St Joseph Pignatelli Parish Deacon - Pater Noster Parish Treasurer Council Member P&F Representative Head of Campus ~ Ex-officio Head of Campus ~ Ex-officio Assistant Head of Campus ~ Ex-officio School Principal

P&F Executive Committee The Parents and Friends Association serves a dual role:

1. To prioritise the ongoing growth and enhancement of our Catholic school community, fostering a spirit of unity among parents, students, and staff. 2. To offer crucial assistance to the school by providing essential resources and materials that meet the educational requirements of our children. Functions:

a) b) c) d) e) f) g) h) i) j) k)

The P&F is established to support the principal to fulfil their responsibilities in leading the Catholic Identity, Education, Community and Stewardship functions of the Catholic school in pursuit of CEWA’s vision to be Christ-centred and child-focused. Collaborate with the principal to plan, organise and promote social, sporting, cultural, educational and faith formation activities for the interaction of parents, school staff, parish and students and in doing so provide opportunities for community engagement, where relevant; Support the principal in the facilitation of fundraising events for the benefit of the students; these funds provide opportunities for students and complement the school budget; Encourage parental participation in school programs, particularly those related to parent engagement in learning; Act as a forum for ideas and discussion on any relevant issue that will benefit the students; Act as a channel to CSPWA to seek advice or express opinion; Liaise with CSPWA and/or parish and other parties to organise guest speakers for the P&F members on current and suggested educational programs, faith development and other matters of interest; In consultation with the principal, conduct an annual P&F event planning session to establish focus for the year ahead (support guidelines to be developed); Be positive advocates for the school in the local community; Represent the P&F as an invited member of the Catholic School Advisory Council; and Follow the CEWA Guidelines for P&F Groups in a Catholic School. 10

The requirement for parents involved in the Association are: • • • •

To be a parent of the school. To have the ability to work as part of a team. A belief in and desire to work for the betterment of our school. A belief in and desire to build a community of people based on the love of Jesus and to nurture respect and care for all.

I would also like to acknowledge our Parents & Friends Committee who have assisted throughout the year and provided the school with a $80,000 to enhance our school pod areas with new furniture and equipment for all students in Years 1 – 6. The Executive Team comprising of: Mr Michael Ballem Mrs Holly Tickner Mrs Emma-Lee Oliver

President Secretary Treasurer

We especially thank Mr Michael Ballem who has been the President of the P&F for the past three years and also served on the School Advisory Council for the same amount of time. Michael has been instrumental in organising and coordinating many of the community events, as well as supporting myself, the principal, and the school staff. Thank you, Michael, for your support and commitment over the last three years. We would like to thank and recognise Mrs Nadia Gibellini and her team for their assistance in the coordinating and organising the Christmas Carols Night Market’s evening. The active involvement, dedicated commitment, and strong support of both these parent representative bodies ensure that our students have access to high-quality resources. Many thanks to all who have contributed and supported the school in any capacity. I extend my gratitude to each one of you for your generous spirit. It has been a pleasure collaborating with both groups. Their extraordinary efforts and the additional time they devote to Mel Maria Catholic Primary School are exceptional and deeply valued.

STAFF FAREWELLS The end of a school year also is a time where we have to say a few goodbyes to members of the community. To the staff members that are leaving at the conclusion of 2023: • •

Mrs Lisa Yensch Mrs Maree Passmore

Thank you for all that you have contributed towards the development of this school. Thank you for your service and your efforts with the students. I wish you all, every happiness for the future.

PARENT HELPERS AND VOULNTEERS To all our parents, a heartfelt THANK YOU for your ongoing support and assistance. Whether it's your contributions in the library, classrooms, on excursions, in the canteen, your involvement in various committees, or your willingness to help in any capacity, your dedication to the children of Mel Maria is greatly valued. I commend you on the way you've nurtured and raised your children – they are truly a joy. We are indeed fortunate to have such a wonderful, devoted, and compassionate community.

To the families who are departing this year, we extend our best wishes for the future and express our gratitude for being part of our Mel Maria family. We hope that your lives continue to be blessed.

STUDENTS I am consistently impressed by the enthusiasm, perseverance, and love for life displayed by our children. Observing their efforts, witnessing their smiles, and hearing their laughter as you move around our campuses is a source of great joy. Thank you, children, for making our days so meaningful and rewarding. As we conclude the year, we bid farewell to our Year Six students as they prepare to embark on the next phase of their education at various secondary schools. These young leaders have been an exceptional cohort, always eager to lend a hand and significantly contributing to the functioning of our school. We are incredibly proud of the fine individuals they have grown into. We wish them every success in their future endeavours and want them to know that they will always be welcome at Mel Maria. Visitors often comment on the atmosphere and the overall feel of our school. There is no doubt that a sense of friendliness and genuine care pervades each of our campuses. I firmly believe that Mel Maria is truly unique – an outstanding community that enjoys excellent facilities within the Catholic tradition.

Best Wishes

Paul Hille Principal #MakingADifferenceEveryday

CATHOLIC IDENTITY

As a Christ-Centred, student focused Catholic School Community, Mel Maria is called and challenged to be the lived expression of our Church’s Vision and Mission within our community and society. Mel Maria is a place of “becoming” for each child to grow into the person God has gifted them to be.

Our school’s 50th Anniversary in 2023 proved a highlight for our community. Our Foundation Sisters visited our students and participated in our 50th Anniversary Masses. Having them present with us to witness their legacy within our contemporary Catholic community proved to be a great opportunity for reflection and gratitude for all. Our school’s foundress, Catherine McAuley, informs and guides our charism. As the founder of the Mercy Order of Sisters, Catherine McAuley, has a significant place of the life of our school and her teachings inform our culture of welcome and acceptance for all. The Mercy tradition of welcome and belonging is evident in our interaction within and between all parish and school community members. Our school values of Service, Respect, Justice, and Compassion are integrated and embedded throughout daily actions and interactions. Our values inform our daily prayers and are highlighted in our Catholic doctrine taught in daily Religious Education lessons. These values serve to enhance our commitment to welcome and acceptance of all community members and to acknowledge how their gifts contribute to community life. Christian witness is evident in the way we welcome students and their families. Our school strives to provide a climate that is humanly and spiritually enriching for our students and parents. All schools develop their own soul or character. At Mel Maria, we are striving to develop a communal living spirit based on the teachings of Christ and informed by our Mercy values.

Daily prayers and weekly masses, foster and encourage a deep relationship with the Holy Spirit who guides each individual and empowers them to play their part within our Church’s mission. Our school spirit of unity is a visible sign of values lived and practiced with each encounter. amongst students, teachers, parents, and community members.

“Unity is Strength” Is highlighted through quality relationships and fostered: • • •

Year Six Service-Learning Ministries Leadership Program - Year Six Service Leaders participate in organisational responsibilities daily through rotating service ministries. Year Five Young Vinnies. Year Four Catholic Social Justice Teaching Focus.

Christian Service is lived and given expression through regular participation in fundraising for Catholic Charities and Organisations. How did I live out the teachings of Jesus today? Is a question central to our teaching of Religious Education at Mel Maria?

Practical projects and fundraising provide for those less fortunate in the wider community and opportunities to learn how we can respond with co-responsibility to make a collective difference through action. Below are some of the organisations that benefit from our collective efforts and community generosity.

Deeper learning was a major focus for service projects throughout 2023 at Mel Maria. Year Four students led by their teachers, focused on Visiting Saint Mary’s Cathedral as the home of Perth Diocese. Our connection to our wider Catholic family is a central focus of this visit in preparation for expanding students thinking on the co-responsibility of being a member of our Catholic Community. Year Five students were invested as YOUNG VINNIES as part of their service-learning focus for 2023 and in preparation for 2024. Learning the history of this Catholic Charity and about its founders, has given clarity and focus to their co-ordination of winter appeals and food drives. • • • • • • •

Life link Charities of Archdiocese of Perth Caritas St Vincent De Paul St Patrick’s Care Centre Fremantle St Jude’s School. Mercy Care Women’s Shelters Mercy Care

At Mel Maria, parents are assisted as first educators of their children in faith, as we work with our families and parishes to provide formation experiences that foster and form a lived experience of Christian conscience and virtue. Preparation and regular experiences through the word, worship, prayer and religious retreats, support parents and students to participate fully in parish sacramental celebrations and parish life. • • • • • •

Year level Masses are celebrated each term. Father Don and Deacon John visit classrooms to talk and to guide our students. Pre-Primary students attend Mass with Grandparents and Parents Students in Year Three to Year Six celebrate the Sacrament of Penance Parish students are encouraged to be Altar Servers at Mass Religious Education letters to parents about current guidelines being taught.

Mel Maria students participate in daily prayer and Religious Education lessons. Religious Education is assessed, graded, and reported on to parents. Our students participate in the Bishops Religious Literacy Assessment each year, in Years Three and Year Five. Mel Maria students are well prepared and consistently perform above the average for schools in Western Australia.

Bishop Religious Literacy Assessment 2023 Results Year

School Mean

Perth Mean

Year 3

471

409

Year 5

511

467

Each classroom provides opportunities for the creation of sacred spaces, where symbols and icons have meaning and reverence within a shared space. Children learn to lead and participate in traditional forms of Catholic prayers and rituals which enhance Catholic life and culture. At Mel Maria, we want our students to see beyond the ordinary and awaken the human heart to its own potential. All relationships within our school community are guided and informed by the Catholic Social Teaching Principals. Our commitment to transparency and accountability is evident in our protocols and procedures at all levels of community life. We want our students to witness the best practices that community life has to offer and model. All members of our Mel Maria community contribute to our unique spirit as we grow and show our students how to be in the world.

Our students witness an agile and responsive Catholic community ready to respond to and to participate with confidence in a changing world. Our student’s participation in parish life and fostering a close relationship with our parishioners at weekly school Masses, is a central focus in creating and growing our community in prayer. Our parish elders leading and teaching our students. The rosary and the opportunity for students to participate, is a celebration of a rich tradition within our Faith.

EDUCATION

Early Childhood The ECE Committee has finalised the ECE Position Statement, encapsulating five fundamental drivers: Invite, Inquire, Inspire, Involve, and Innovate. This year, we established an ongoing relationship with Notre Dame University and CEWA through the Leadership in Early Years Program. This program supported us to deepen our understanding of Early Years learning, and development through promoting quality pedagogical approaches based on research, the Early Years Learning Framework and the National Quality Standard. We are honoured to collaborate with Notre Dame University in a partnership aimed at remaining up to date with the latest research and knowledge, in the field of 3 to 8-year-old pedagogy.

Primary A Primary Committee was selected, to write our Mel Maria Primary Position Statement. This position statement captures our deeply held values and beliefs as a Catholic school. It outlines how we wholeheartedly embrace the curriculum and apply evidence-based practices to authentically mirror our school's pedagogical approach within the primary setting. It focuses on: • • • • •

Curriculum Engagement Critical Thinking Collaboration Communication Creativity and Innovation

Inquiry “I consider how I can spark curiosity and explore personal relevance in the classroom as students engage with provocation. I consider the questions I will ask as we get curious and how we can use structures to capture student questions, make them visible, and subsequently leverage these throughout learning” Trevor Mackenzie (2022). We aim to collectively compile essential elements of inquiry to enhance practice.

Continued focused between campuses- Teacher Efficacy • • • • • • • •

Continued use of Mel Maria programming templates and daily work pads Assessment folders displaying assessments with rubrics Cluster meetings bi-weekly allowing staff to share ideas, resources and moderate work Collaboration completing of ECE Position Statement Collaboration drafting of Primary Position Statement Consistent use of Oxford Maths and Mathletics programs across the whole school Consistent use of Handwriting Scope and Sequence Professional dialogue

Innovation and Technology • • • • • • • •

Continuous use of Electronic Whiteboards OneNote, Teams, and Seesaw are used as digital platforms from Year Three – Year Six STEM program: Robotics, Animations, Green Screens, iMovies, Spheros, Drones Multi-media presentations: PowerPoint, infographics, Word, Pages, Keynote, PicCollage QR codes are used to house student’s work and displayed on Open Night, allowing students to display work, record speeches and more Apple Classroom used by staff to monitor iPad use during classes Orbit: access to library recourses for staff and students Apple Teacher certification within the staff

Special Needs and Support Our Enrichment Program is geared for students who need assistance in Literacy Skills, and our Early Intervention Program helps us to identify students in Pre-Primary. We use a range of structured, sequential and Evidence-Based Phonic Programs, such as Sounds Write, MiniLit, MultiLit and Repeated Reading for Year One - Year Six. We also monitor our students through our yearly Standardised Testing /NAPLAN, and track their growth in Reading, Spelling and Maths. The data that has been collected from PP, show measurable improvements and these students have gained a small bank of ‘high frequency words’ that they can read ‘the fast way’.

SEEDS - Ms Teresa Marra SEEDS, Students Exceeding and Excelling in Developmental Skills is our academic extension program catering to our gifted and talented children from Year Two-Six. We have approximately 120 students in the program. It offers multi-aged groups, of like-minded students, across both campuses the opportunities to engage in programs that challenge: Future Problem Solving, Mag Seeds, Seedlings, Philosophy, Tournament Of The Mind, Young Innovators, Wow Seeds, Maths Olympiad and many State and National Competitions. •

Maths Immersion program is a ‘new’ initiative, an extension to the existing SEEDS program. This program caters to deepening the mathematical learning of our top end students by differentiating the pace, depth of content and process of their mathematical instruction in line with their classroom curriculum.

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Craig Silvey Writers Award– winner Anya Aryaputri-Edi, also runner -up of the Golden Pen Award. It is the tenth consecutive year we have had students place, and/or in the top 10 finalists for this competition that has over 1100 entrants.

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Robotics -Mel Maria took three robotic teams to the Robocup Competition held at Curtin Stadium. All three of our teams made the state finals.

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Tournament Of The Mind- Both Mel Maria TOM SEEDS teams made the state finals in their disciplines, this year, receiving state HONOURS in their respective disciplines. SJP also won the Primary Creativity Award, out of over 80 teams.

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Maths Olympiad – We had 30 students participate in this National competition with Caspar Yeow and Marco Li achieving in the top 10%.

Science – Mrs Cannell This year the focus has been on developing skills a good scientist needs and inspiring a love for learning about all things science! Chemical Science: we added and removed heat from objects, inflated balloons through chemical change, observed the transfer of heat from object to object, and explored absorption. Physical Science: we experimented with insulators and conductors, used art to learn about how objects move and explored friction and speed using ramps and cars. Earth and Space Science: we experimented on how the solar system formed, made working models of day and night, looked at erosion of rocks and what soil is made from. We celebrated Science Week with the theme – Innovation: Powering Future Industries. Students had opportunities to design and create using different materials. Lots of interesting facts about design scientists and their inventions were learned. It inspired us to come up with some of our own innovations!

Biological Science: we observed living things, looked at how they react to different stimuli, classified plants, and animals, and played many interactive games to learn about ecosystems. We experimented with how light moves, reflection, seeing colours and refraction of light. Many of us are now considering science as a career in the future!

Health – Mrs Cottino Students from Years Three to Six have continued to enjoy Health as a specialist subject in 2023. Through our lessons, children have gained an understanding, and the necessary skills to lead healthy, safe, and active lives. Students have learnt about themselves and the actions and activities that keep them healthy and safe including healthy eating, the benefits of physical activity, and strategies to deal with big emotions. Topics have included feelings, family, friendships, bullying and learning to decipher food labels and advertising. In the lower years, the focus is on dealing with changes in friendships, respect, empathy and accepting our differences, while in the senior years we have explored the changes associated with puberty, bullying, and identifying a healthy lifestyle. With a growing awareness of the impact of good mental and physical health on the wellbeing of our children, our students are truly fortunate to be receiving Health as a specialist subject here at Mel Maria.

Japanese – Miss Cooper At Mel Maria, students in Year Two – Year Six attend a weekly Japanese lesson, covering various topics throughout the year. They progressively build their Japanese skills over five years, becoming proficient in Hiragana, delivering self-introductions in Japanese, and acquiring basic communication skills. The Japanese program is enriched with interactive experiences, including annual origami sessions and the Hyogo excursion, allowing students to engage in cultural activities, speak Japanese, and savour authentic Japanese cuisine. Furthermore, students participate in art and craft activities that deepen their understanding of Japanese culture, creating koi fish, traditional toys, and hanging scrolls, with their creations showcased at the 2023 Mel Maria Open Night.

HASS in the Bibool Miya (Library) Mrs Windsor Mel Maria Bibool-miya (library) is a learning space that is #MakingADifferenceEveryday. During HASS lessons the kurrlongurs (children) learn Kaartdijin (Noongar knowledge). The library (Bibool-miya) shares the kaartdijin of the Wadjuk Noongar people through acknowledging the First Nations People of Australia and sharing the richness of their culture, history and care of the land. We acknowledge and commemorate Aboriginal significant dates and promote, stories, language, songs, art, bush walks, and dance. The children learn the importance of the Noongar people’s connection to land (boodja); their family (moort) and knowledge (kaartdijin) of country through songlines. The library HASS lessons also foster respect and ‘Care for our Common Home’ Laudato Si by acting locally and thinking globally, focusing on caring for our planet; demonstrating the importance of understanding our impact on the environment; and modelling effective responsible Wastewise behaviours aimed at changing attitudes towards what is considered ‘Waste’. In the Bibool-miya we urge students to Rethink, Reduce, Repair, Reuse, and Recycle to ensure less waste goes directly to landfill. Students developing environmentally aware attitudes, habits, and values through reading quality curated fiction and non-fiction texts with the theme of sustainability; teaching research skills focusing on caring for our planet; demonstrating the importance of understanding our impact on the environment; and modelling effective responsible Wastewise behaviours aimed at changing attitudes towards what is considered” Waste”. 20

Information Literacy – borrowing in the library (Bibool miya) Mrs Windsor and Mrs Delic Mel Maria Catholic Primary School Libraries provide inviting environments that promote a love of literature, encourage reading for pleasure and information and inspire children to become readers for life. The library’s well-resourced collection supports the curriculum and encourages the development of information literate students. The library subscribes to numerous online resources, allowing children to have access to a reliable and trustworthy source of information from school and home.

Sport – Mr John In 2023, students have been involved in a wide range of sports and activities through Physical Education. From exploring static and dynamic balance and refining locomotor skills to core sports such as Football, Soccer, Basketball, Tee Ball, Cricket, Netball and Basketball. Our Year Five and Six students have also had exposure to Ultimate Disc, AFL 9’s, Speedminton and Volleyball, plus Bike Education practical sessions for Year Fives ahead of Camp in 2024. Running club was again a huge feature of Terms 2 and 3 as students used it to prepare for Cross Country and Athletics, as well as for socialising and getting the day off to a great start. Our Carnivals were again a great display of the sportsmanship, talent and love of sport and competition at Mel Maria. Green Faction were our champions in Swimming, Cross Country and Senior Athletics, while Gold won the Junior Sports Day. The new Athletics and Sports Day formats were successful and will be fine-tuned for 2024 after reflection on 2023’s instalments. Mel Maria performed strongly again in Interschool competitions. We were first in Swimming, also winning the Boys Shield. We were second overall in Cross Country and finished fourth in Athletics. In June, our Year Six students competed in Soccer, Netball and Football at the CPSSA Winter Carnival in which all teams won most of their games and most importantly had a fantastic day. Well done to all students who represented the school on the sporting field, the track and the pool in 2023. Thank you, all parents, staff and students who have helped out throughout the year. The team approach to carnival days is fantastic and so many are willing to assist. A special thank you to Mr Popadynec who is always the first to ask what he is needed for at a carnival. We look forward to another fantastic year of Physical Education and Sport at Mel Maria in 2024.

Music - Mr Murphy We laughed, we danced, we sang, we composed, and we played a rich mix of tunes together! There were soloists, bands, choirs, guitars, pianos, singing, drums and electronic sounds! At school, we created whole class bands and sang, danced and played melodies and rhythms from around the globe. In Year 5 and 6, we explored the ‘Garage Band’ music app on our iPads. We wrote our own songs and created versions of pop songs on real instruments. We combined voices, guitar, ukulele, violin, xylophone, djembe drums and formed colourful music ensembles with the Year 4 classes. We learnt a variety of folk songs such as ‘La Raspa’, ‘Evening Star’, ‘Going Home’ and ‘Pop Corn Polka’. We performed our songs to a supportive audience at the ‘Catholic Performing Arts Festival’ and again at Mel Maria’s ‘Open Night’. ‘Outstanding Awards’ and ‘Certificates of Excellence’ were awarded to all four of our Year 4 classes by the Performing Arts Committee in the ‘Instrumental Ensemble Section’ of the Festival.

On Friday 13 June, all the Mel Maria Year 3 students were lucky enough to see ‘Nature’s Symphony’ at the Perth Concert Hall. We learnt about the wonders of the orchestra through a wonderful selection of classical music. We heard excerpts from Vivaldi’s ‘Four Seasons’ and experienced Rimsky-Korsakov ‘Flight of the Bumblebee’. Liturgical singing is an important part of our musical experience at Mel Maria. We regularly learn new hymns and practice a repertoire that reflects the liturgical seasons of the year. This has enriched our Masses and helped to make the experience a more meaningful one for everyone at the school. We are lucky to have an inspirational group of musical tutors that visit the school. We can learn; piano, guitar, singing and percussion! We thank them for their direction and their dedication. Our Mel Maria School Choir rehearsed every Wednesday morning (even in the depths of winter) and led the congregation in all the Sacraments throughout the Year. We also performed at the Catholic Performing Arts Festival, School Assemblies, the Year 6’s Graduation and Carols Night. This could not have happened without the skill and passion of Mrs Genevieve Sumich, Mrs Tricia Spencer and the support of parents.

DRAMA – Tonya Blair Drama classes were based on games to help develop drama skills. The children used their skills to tell and perform stories. They re-enacted stories by the beloved Julia Donaldson. Titles such as ‘Room on the Broom’, ‘The Singing Mermaid’, ‘The Highway Rat’ and many more. The stories helped the performers to engage the audience. The children explored characters and the common theme of fairy tales. The children enjoyed performing titles such as ‘The Three Billy Goats Gruff’, ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ and more. They have also been exploring first nations stories, informative texts and dreamtime stories. They have been developing cultural respect through knowledge and performance.

NAPLAN This year the Year Three and Five students completed the NAPLAN assessment. Most of the assessments were completed online, except for the Year Three Writing, which was entered on paper. How has NAPLAN reporting changed in 2023? Education ministers have agreed that NAPLAN test results will be reported using proficiency standards from this year. Together with the move to an earlier NAPLAN in March, these changes meet an initiative of the 2019 National School Reform Agreement.

The proficiency standards represent a challenging but reasonable expectation of student achievement at the time of testing to deliver better information for teachers, parents, and carers. Achievement in NAPLAN is now reported against proficiency levels instead of the previous numerical NAPLAN bands. Students’ results will show how they performed in each of the NAPLAN assessment areas against 4 new proficiency levels: • • • •

Exceeding: The student’s result exceeds expectations at the time of testing. Strong: The student’s result meets challenging but reasonable expectations at the time of testing. Developing: The student’s result indicates that they are working towards expectations at the time of testing. Needs additional support: The student’s result indicates that they are not achieving the learning outcomes expected at the time of testing. They are likely to need additional support to progress satisfactorily. Results from 2023 on cannot be compared to results from 2008 to 2022.

Year 3 Results

Year 3 Mean Scaled Score Comparison Area Reading Writing Spelling Grammar Numeracy

School 429 443 415 440 436

CEWA 400 413 401 403 401

State 404 411 399 400 401

National 404 417 404 409 407

Year 5 Results

Year 5 Mean Scaled Score Comparison Area Reading Writing Spelling Grammar Numeracy

School 526 509 503 517 534

CEWA 495 484 491 490 483

State 490 478 488 491 484

National 496 483 490 496 488

COMMUNITY

Excellence in Catholic Primary Education

Mel Maria commemorated their jubilee celebration by organising a series of community events. The festivities commenced with Mercy Week, during which the founding Sisters of Mercy visited the school to share their stories with students and the wider school community. To mark this significant milestone, Mel Maria held two 50th Anniversary Masses. Following the Masses, a delightful morning tea was hosted, attended by current students, the Sisters of Mercy, special guests, past principals, parents, and other community members. During this memorable occasion, we took the time to reflect on our core values, which form the foundation of our school community. In addition, our students also participated in Mercy Markets and a Colour Run organised by our P&F. The jubilee celebration will come to a close with the end-of-year Christmas Craft Markets and Carols, where students will showcase their talented crafts and performances. Additionally, there will be a special 50 Year Musical to commemorate the occasion. Throughout the past year, the school has remained dedicated to keeping the community informed about the upcoming changes for our school in 2025. We have utilised various communication channels, including the school newsletter, social media platforms, and Coffee Cart sessions specifically tailored for key classes that will be most affected. These Coffee Cart sessions will continue into 2024, commencing with current Year Four students and a night session for families. We extend our gratitude to the families who have attended these sessions and provided valuable questions and feedback to the school. Through open dialogue, we can address any concerns, gather valuable feedback, and make informed decisions that will benefit the entire school community. We would also like to acknowledge the Parents and Friends Association for their generosity in raising funds to purchase new furniture for the Year One and Two area at Pater Noster Campus, as well as the Year Five and Six area at Saint Joseph Pignatelli. Each year, the P&F association steadfastly supports the school in numerous ways, and their diligence greatly contributes to the incredible resources and opportunities that we can provide our students. Lastly, we would like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Michael Ballem, who has served as the president of the P&F for the past three years. His service and valuable contributions have made an impact to our school community. We would also like to thank our amazing class representatives and parents who have supported school events and teachers within the classroom. You all #MakeADifferenceEveryday. As part of our school improvement goals, we aim to collaborate closely with the new P&F executive team. By working together, we can ensure effective communication and cooperation to enhance the overall school experience for our students, parents, and staff. Furthermore, we are dedicated to keeping the community well-informed and engaged in discussions surrounding the 2025 school transition. We recognize the importance of involving all stakeholders in this process to ensure a smooth and successful transition. Through open dialogue, we can address any concerns, gather valuable feedback, and make informed decisions that will benefit the entire school community.

STEWARDSHIP

Professional Development

Faith development for staff. Professional learning day/sessions set aside for all to further develop their knowledge, faith and understanding of Catholicism. Accreditation of the staff is to up to date. A minimum of eighty hours of professional development this year. Sessions have taken place on pupil free days, during holidays and afterschool, where staff have given up their own time. The required Religious Education Accreditation and ongoing renewal has been completed by all staff. • • • • • • • • • •

Early Childhood project – Notre Dame University Gate Keeper Course Work Health and Safety Rebecca Duncan – Inquiry Learning Sam Wynne – ECE Notre Dame University Mandatory Reporting Cyber Awareness Primary Committee – develop a new school philosophy Faith Formation – Mercy Charism School Improvement

All courses meet the requirements for the Teacher Registration Board of WA registration process. During 2023, we have analysed and compared data to identify areas of strength and need. This data provides valuable information which will assist us in identifying strengths and opportunities for further improvement.

Collection of School Fees

Payment of school fees can be made by direct debit, in person, credit card or BPAY. Parents have been encouraged to pay fees by a payment plan and spread their payments over instalments throughout the year as follows: Currently 75% of families utilise the payment plan option. This is a 5% drop from last year. The goal is to have all families on one of the payment plans.

Capital Planning

The school has collaborated extensively with CEWA's Capital Development team, resulting in the submission and subsequent approval of plans for commencement of work during the upcoming Christmas holidays.

Environmental Stewardship

Work Health and Safety (WHS) is of utmost importance at Mel Maria Catholic Primary School. CEWA has set up a specialized WHS team to provide support to schools in meeting the required compliance standards. With their guidance, we have been reviewing and aligning our procedures with the prescribed standards. Additionally, several staff members have either received training for the first time or updated their credentials. The school has also established a new WHS team responsible for conducting regular inspections. A special thank you goes out to Mr Aaron Gale, Mrs Edwina Cottino, and Mr Michael Corrie for their contributions in this regard. CEWA has conducted inspection of both campuses, and this will continue next year.

PRIORITIES FOR 2024

Catholic Identity • • • • •

Provide different avenues and opportunities to explore school values of Compassion, Respect, Justice and Service, specifically during liturgical seasons LENT and ADVENT. Extend opportunities for students to provide service within the local community context. Extending faith formation opportunities for parents in the 2024, Year of Prayer by providing visiting speakers. Extend leadership opportunities for Young Vinnies by including parents. Provide Religious Formation opportunities for staff to enhance RE student Data.

Education • • • • • • • • • • •

Finalise Primary Position Statement. Embed ECE philosophy by highlighting key principles and reviewing our current practice. Implement whole school spelling and reading program using Sounds Write. Develop essential elements of inquiry in classroom environments. Reflect and embed inquiry principles in our practice. Create authentic play-based environment Pre-Kindergarten – Year Two and Year Three – Six. Create engaging 21st century indoor environments with a focus on shared pods. Review and update Scope and Sequence in Mathematics and English. Continue staff training with the goal to becoming an Apple Distinguished School. Establish clubs in our upper primary setting. Continue collecting data, analysing, and evaluating student learning growth.

Community • •

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Collaborate closely with the new P&F Executive Team. Keep the community well-informed and engaged in discussions surrounding the 2025 school transition. Initiate community events that spread the Good News of Mel Maria into the wider community.

Stewardship • • •

Staff Stewardship - Faith development for staff, a professional learning day has been set aside to allow staff the opportunity to further develop their knowledge, faith and understanding of Catholicism. Financial Stewardship - All families to sign up to one of the payment options Work Health and Safety – continue working with CEWA in meeting the requirements for work health and safety. This includes thorough compliance with regulations, proactive risk assessments, implementation of safety protocols, regular training sessions, fostering a safety-oriented culture, and consistently updating procedures to ensure a safe working environment for all.