Dear Community of St Columba’s,

Year 6 Camp 

Last week, our Year 6 students, accompanied by a dedicated team of staff, enjoyed their annual camp at Forest Edge in Waroona. After an exciting and adventure-filled week, they have returned to school full of joy and ready to embrace the routine once again. 

To our incredible Year 6 students, your courage, kindness, and willingness to challenge yourselves was truly inspiring. Whether you stepped out of your comfort zone by staying away from home, trying new foods, climbing to new heights, or simply working alongside someone new, you each embraced the opportunity to grow. You didn’t just attend camp, you transformed your own paradigms, and we could not be prouder. 

To the dedicated staff who made this experience possible, thank you for your time, energy, and heart. Special thanks to our Year 6 teachers, Clare and Jenny. Clare, your experience and steady leadership continue to be a gift to us all. Jenny, you took to camp life like a duck to water, what a fantastic first camp! 

We also extend our deepest gratitude to Dylan, Melissa, Adriana, Ellie, Jacob, Leesa, and Nicole for braving the three days and two nights with such enthusiasm and care. Your presence made all the difference. 

We were truly blessed with glorious sunshine throughout our time away, and we praise God for this beautiful gift that added even more joy to our journey. 

Sacrament of Confirmation 

It is a big term for our Year 6 Team, as they prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. Please pray for them. This is a sacred and powerful moment in their faith journey, a time when they affirm the gifts of the Holy Spirit and deepen their commitment to living as disciples of Christ. 

Confirmation is a celebration of growth, courage, and grace. It marks a new chapter in each child’s spiritual life, where they are called to live out their faith with intention, love, and service. We are so proud of the way our students are preparing with open hearts and minds, and we ask God to bless them abundantly during this time. 

We warmly invite all parents and caregivers to join us for the Confirmation Enrolment Ceremony this coming Saturday at 6.00pm at St Columba’s Church, where we will formally begin this journey together. Your presence is a beautiful way to support and encourage your child as they take this important step in their faith. 

Catholic Performing Arts Festival 

We send our warmest wishes to our Music Specialist, Karen Gonsalves and the wonderful St Columba’s Choir as they prepare to perform at next week’s Catholic School Performing Arts Festival. 

Your dedication, teamwork, and love of music shine through in every rehearsal, and we know your performance will be a beautiful reflection of your talent and spirit. May you sing with joy, confidence, and grace and your voices uplift and inspire all who hear you. 

We are so proud of you and will be cheering you on. Go St Columba’s Choir! 

Congratulations to all students who participated in the solo events. A special commendation goes to Tessa C and Arthur O from Year 4, who received Outstanding Awards from the adjudicators in the category of solo piano. 

Certificate presentations will take place shortly, stay tuned. 

A Friendly Reminder About After School Pick Ups for Junior Students 

Please keep your child nearby you as you wait for your older children. Students who have not been collected by a parent/guardian need to wait with the Duty Teacher at Milne Street or Kiss N Drive. 

We kindly remind families that large ball games and playground use are not permitted on the oval or playgrounds after school. This is especially important as we need to ensure these areas remain clear for our Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) licence requirements from 2.50pm. 

Thank you for your understanding and support in keeping our school environment safe and compliant. 

Upcoming Events 

• Friday 15 August: School Mass. Parents are all very welcome to attend 

• Saturday 16 August: Confirmation Enrolment Mass, 6pm, St Columba’s Parish 

• Tuesday 19 August: Assembly (Year 3) 

• Tuesday 19 August: P&F Meeting @ 6.30 pm in the School Library 

• Wednesday 20 August: Choir Performance at the Catholic School Performing Arts Ceremony. 

• Thursday 21 August: Year 6 Parent/Child Talks on Sexuality 

• Friday 22 August: School and OSHC are CLOSED for the Staff Annual Catholic Day. 

• Monday 25 August: Pupil Free Day 

In Gratitude,

Gina Burns

Principal

VACSWIM – Swimming and Water Safety