OSHC REPORT FROM ACTING DIRECTOR –Karina Forte(to be presented by Simon

As time goes on, so do people and during the year we said farewell to Father Allan who supported the school in many ways. And we warmly welcome Father Michael and look forward to the year ahead with his advice and support.

Our work, as a Board doesn’t stop at School Board meetings –it’s the time spent in attending and participating in sub committees; participating in school functions; the decisions made throughout the year on policy, issues such as school development plans, marketing, financial management, traffic and safety management. It is supporting Simon and Ingrid on day-to-day issues, and its participating in other tasks. Thanks also to the Parish Community for the support they have given the school. We are very fortunate to have a close relationship with the parish. We also appreciate the financial assistance the parish gives to the school.

During the past year, the school has encouraged a strong connection between the parent community, teaching staff and the parish. From our own personal experiences and from Bernardette’s reports, the children have achieved an amazing amount in their learning. The reports have highlighted that they have engaged actively in their learning and how they have developed confidence with the support that the school provides them.

The School Board sincerely thanks Simon and Ingrid. Their hard work, leadership and dedication that they have provided to the school over the last 12 months are greatly acknowledged by the Board. They are passionate about the development of each child. My meetings withthem highlight their passion for the betterment of the school and the work they do behind the scenes in making each child get the best out of themselves. The small things they do are noticed. Being out at pick and drop off for example is a unique but important service they give. They take an active interest in the pupil’s development – and that of their staff. I thank them personally for their guidance and encouragement that they both have giving me as chair. This is my 8th year and last on the Board.

Our inspirational teachers also do a great job in shaping the minds of our children and their future. They are role models and make a huge difference in the lives of our children. Their efforts are much appreciated and the Board offers each and every teacher of St Joseph’s a big thank you.

To the Front Office staff, Canteen staff, the Out of Hours School Care, Education Support Officers and other support staff, including work experience students, volunteer readers and class reps, who contribute time and effort in support of the teachers and the school, we also say a big thank you.

I wish to thank all the volunteers, too numerous to individually name, that have helped in many activities and events throughout the year. The individuals and families who cooked at the sausage sizzles, served at the canteen, helped at the school picnic, and sports day, coached sporting teams. We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude. You here tonight and the P&F are great examples of the workvolunteers do for the school. We thank you for your time and your continual giving to our school.