We have come to the end of Term 2. It has certainly been a very different and interesting term for everybody. We began with the whole COVID-19 situation, requiring 'flexible learning', and a new Principal arrived at short notice. We then had a gradual return of students to school and a change back to face to face teaching. Along with all of this we asked parents to drop off and pick up at the gate and sadly we were unable to have visitors or music tutors in our school. Classes have been unable to go on excursions, attend sporting events or participate in class Masses or whole school liturgies or assemblies.
While some of these have been a little disappointing, there have been a number of positives to come out of it all. Firstly, I believe our children and staff have learnt some new skills. We have learnt how to use technology in new ways, using Microsoft Teams, live streaming and various flexible learning activities. We have learnt the importance of regularly using soap and hand sanitisers. Many children have developed their independence and resilience skills around carrying and packing up their own bag, walking to and from their classroom and being responsible for their own personal items.
The other great thing is that our building project has kept moving forward and we are now well ahead of schedule. We anticipate to be able to move our Year 3-6 children in within the first two weeks of Term 3. This is really exciting and we thank Sarah Constructions for their great work. Please check out the latest 'time lapse' photos on our Facebook page.
When we return from the holidays the area near the new building will look very different. The fence and the Site Office buildings will be gone and the landscaping will be complete. At some point we will reopen the gate on Redin Street for arrival and departure from school. This is most likely to be from Week 2 but we will let you know. On Thursday 23 July (Week 1) Fr Peter will bless our new oval and we will 'cut the ribbon' to open that space up for our children. I am excited about this as I am sure the children are too. This is the date we expect to receive the keys to the new building.
This week some of our senior students nominated to be House Leaders and gave a presentation about why they would be the best person to lead their Houses throughout the year and on Sports Day. After listening to the speeches the children then voted for their House leaders.
Congratulations to:
Thank you to all those who nominated but missed out. I am proud that you gave it a go and know your team will still experience your fantastic support throughout the year.
Next term our new Reception children will commence. At the same time we are sad to say farewell to the following students: Angelina, Aristella, Leila and Surveen. We thank you and your families for the contribution you have made to Tenison Woods Catholic School and wish you well for your future schooling.
Finally I would like to thank each one of you for welcoming me into this community. I have felt blessed every day by the smiling faces and quick chat that I have with your children as they arrive, leave, or throughout the day. I wish you well for the upcoming holidays and hope that you are able to have some real 'family' time together. Stay safe and return to us refreshed for another busy but exciting term as we spread out into our new learning neighbourhoods and oval.
Kind Regards,
Peter Mercer
Acting Principal
