Dear Parents and Caregivers,

As we complete Week 8, there are a number of important events to mention from the last two weeks. On Monday 20 November 2023 and Wednesday 22 November 2023, the Kindergarten orientation mornings for the 2024 cohort were a resounding success, teeming with excitement and enthusiasm. The three classrooms echoed with the chatter of both eager children and their excited parents, all ready to embark on this new educational journey. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as interactive activities introduced the students to their new school environment. Teachers and staff with welcoming smiles guided these new students through classroom activities, fostering a sense of comfort and familiarity. Meanwhile, informative sessions for parents provided an overview of the curriculum, school policies, school counsellor advice and opportunities for involvement. The two mornings assured a promising start for the incoming Kindergarten class of 2024

The annual swimming carnival on Friday 24 November 2023 was both a haven of spirited competition and unrestrained fun, catering to both competitive athletes and those seeking a day of aquatic delight. Under the meticulous guidance of Mr. Allmark and his devoted team, the event unfolded seamlessly, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for participants of all skill levels. The day commenced with exhilarating races, igniting the competitive spirits of skilled swimmers competing to represent St Michael's Nowra in the CEDoW carnival in 2024.

Once the competitive races were completed, it was time for all students to be involved in a spectrum of entertaining water games and activities for those seeking pure amusement, fostering an atmosphere where every participant felt valued and engaged. Mr. Allmark's meticulous planning and the staff’s unwavering dedication, transformed the swimming carnival into a mosaic of safe, exuberant fun, leaving a lasting impression of camaraderie and achievement among all who took part. 

On Saturday 25 November 2023, a number of school staff and I joined Year 3 students and their families as they received the Sacrament of Eucharist during their First Holy Communion. It is always such a privilege to witness the students approach the altar to receive the Eucharist for the first time. The solemnity of the occasion was complemented by beautiful hymns and heartfelt prayers, creating an atmosphere where spirituality intertwined with jubilation, marking a poignant and unforgettable milestone in the lives of these young people. Towards the end of the mass, all of the students stood on the altar and sang the ‘Our Father’ in Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus. Congratulations to our Year 3 teachers, parents, the parish team and Father Joseph for assisting in the preparation of this  Sacrament. 

During this week our local South Coast region has been affected by unseasonal and relentless rainfall. The school did sustain some water damage which is being rectified. Sadly, our Religious Education Coordinator, Mrs Martine Mathieson and her family woke in the early hours of Wednesday morning to find their house completely flooded. They were evacuated in the clothes they were wearing and have since returned to find all their belongings in the house completely waterlogged. Temporary housing is being sought for the immediate future and I ask our community to keep the Mathieson family in your prayers. Mrs Mathieson is on leave for the next short period of time. 

Our Year 6 class have now commenced their last two weeks of school and they have numerous events ahead of them. These include:

• Sport at Nowra Showground each Friday
• Graduation Mass and Award Ceremony - Tuesday 5 December 2023. Mass will commence in the church at 4.30pm, followed by awards in the hall at 5.45pm.
• Yr 6 vs Staff Netball Match Thursday 7 December 2023 
• Kindergarten Buddy Farewell (ice block)  - Friday 8 December
• Year 6 Family Disco in the hall Friday 8 December 2023
• Yr 6 Pool Day - Monday 11 December 2023. Students will walk to Nowra Pool.
• Whole school ‘Fun Day’ - Wednesday 13 December 2023
• Yr 6 Movie Day - Friday 15 December 2023. Students will walk to Nowra Cinema. 

What a wonderful way for these students, teachers and families to finish their 7 years of schooling at St Michael’s Nowra. 

Three other important events in the next two weeks include:

• Year 1’s excursion to Hyams Beach on Thursday 7 December 2023.
• The Colour Run and Fun Day on Wednesday 13 December 2023.
• The Christmas Concert and Picnic Lunch on Thursday 14 December 2023 from Midday until 1.30pm

I would like to seriously urge all families to become actively involved in the Colour Run coordinated by the Parents and Friends. This group of parents have had a remarkable year and are hoping to finish it on a huge high, raising much needed funds to improve school playground facilities.There are great class incentives and individual prizes to win! 

There will be one final newsletter before the students break up for the summer vacation. 

Yours in faith and virtue 

Christopher Paton 

School Principal