Assistant Head of Gioia House

eSafety Presentation from Constable Jim

Our Year 5 and 6 students were treated to an engaging and highly informative session this week when Constable Jim visited to speak about eSafety and responsible online behaviour. His presentation blended real‑life examples, practical advice and interactive discussion, giving students a clear understanding of how to stay safe and make positive choices in digital spaces.

Constable Jim explored key topics such as protecting personal information, recognising unsafe or suspicious online behaviour, managing screen time and responding appropriately to cyberbullying. Students were encouraged to think critically about the apps and games they use, the way they communicate online and the digital footprint they create. Many students commented on how helpful it was to hear real stories from someone who works closely with young people and online safety issues every day.

This session supports our ongoing commitment to digital citizenship across the school. Teachers will continue to build on these messages in the classroom through explicit pastoral eSafety lessons, discussions and practical activities that help students develop safe and respectful online habits.

We also recognise the vital role families play in guiding children’s online experiences. We encourage you to continue these important conversations at home. Working together, we can ensure our students feel confident, informed, and safe as they navigate the digital world.

Action Teams and Leaders Meeting

Our Gioia House Action Teams have launched into the term with impressive energy and purpose. Students have been working as a team to identify areas for improvement, planning initiatives and working together to help our school and wider community.

This week, our Gioia House leaders met with our Senior Leadership Team to share progress updates and work on ideas for upcoming school initiatives. The conversations were thoughtful, forward‑looking and driven by a student voice. Leaders discussed topics for our upcoming Santa Fest celebrations.

These meetings ensure that student perspectives remain central to school planning and they highlight the powerful impact of collaborative leadership. We look forward to seeing these ideas continue to grow throughout the year.

Learning from Sr Sheila about St Catherine of Siena

Our Year 5 and 6 students were fortunate to welcome Sr Sheila this week for an inspiring session on the life and legacy of St Catherine of Siena, one of the most influential women in the history of the Church. Born in 1347, St Catherine was known for her deep compassion, her commitment to serving the poor and the sick, and her remarkable courage in speaking up for peace and unity. Although she never held an official leadership role, her wisdom and determination helped guide important Church decisions and her writings continue to shape Christian spirituality today.

Sr Sheila brought St Catherine of Siena’s story to life, helping students understand how her values, courage, service, faith,and compassion remain relevant in our world. She encouraged students to reflect on how they, too, can make a positive difference through small acts of kindness and a willingness to stand up for what is right.

In addition to her presentation, Sr Sheila prepared a beautiful and reverent celebration liturgy. This special gathering allowed students to pray, reflect and celebrate the spirit of St Catherine of Siena in a meaningful and age‑appropriate way.

We extend our warmest thanks to Sr Sheila for her wisdom, generosity, guidance and the joy she brings to Gioia House and our school community.

Marisa Maks
Assistant Head of Gioia House