Dear Parents,

Over the last couple of weeks I have embedded the catchcry ‘finish strong’ here at St Mary’s.  I realise that we are approaching the end of another big year, however I have encouraged our staff and students not to use tiredness as an excuse for poor decisions and behaviour. The response has been remarkable.  Our students have taken full responsibility of their actions and our 'St Mary’s Shout Outs' have identified finishing strong behaviours. With 7 school days left in 2021, I look forward to all the wonderful events ahead with a group of people who are 'finishing strong'.

Next week’s newsletter will announce the 2022 classes and teachers, however there are some staff leaving and returning to St Mary’s in 2022 that I would like to recognise.

Returning from maternity leave we have Mrs Emma McGee who will return in a part-time, 3½ days a week capacity and Mrs Jacqui Cuthbertson who will return full time, with a promotion to Religious Education Coordinator.

Leaving St Mary’s after 16 years of service in the front office is Sue Buttenshaw.  Sue is leaving big shoes to fill for Jules Ramsay who will return in 2022 in a full time capacity.  Sue would be in the memory of hundreds of students who she has helped over the years.  Also leaving our school is Miss Chloe Beach and Mrs Rebecca McPake who have both secured teaching positions closer to family for next year.  I thank Sue, Bec and Chloe for their wonderful support of St Mary’s and wish them all the best for 2022 and beyond.

Regards

Phil Nielsen