Head of Gioia House

As we draw closer to the end of Term 1 and prepare for Easter, we reflect on our learning and challenges. We celebrate our wins and our shortfalls as they are important part of human growth. In my previous newsletter article, I wrote about the importance of empowering our students by allowing them to take responsibility for becoming more independent and organised, and we (parents and educators) play a crucial role in creating opportunities for students to learn the skills and take accountability. In doing so, we must understand and teach our students that challenges and mistakes are a natural and critical part of the learning process. In Gioia House, students are given opportunities and encouraged to step out of their comfort zone by trying new things without being afraid to make mistakes. We know if students are scared of failing, they won’t try something new or think in a different way which prevents them from improving and being creative and critical thinkers. 

In Gioia House classrooms, while we work through new problems, compose texts or discuss topics, we expect students to make mistakes. We offer feedback, and they try again. And sometimes, students fail despite their best efforts, and it’s okay. The emphasis is on building resilience, learning new skills and asking questions. We know there is no success without failure. Fail is first attempt in learning.

Today we welcomed 35 parents for our Year 5 coffee and conversation morning tea. This was a wonderful occasion to connect with parents in a more informal setting.

We continue to focus on treating everyone with kindness and respect, show empathy and gratitude. I want to take this opportunity to thank our students for their commitment to school work and each other. Most importantly, I thank the students for the positive energy they bring to make the Gioa House a happy place.

A huge thank you to our dedicated staff who make the Gioia House a place where our students feel safe and valued every day. We are grateful for your support and partnership.

I wish all families a safe holiday and blessed Easter.

Today, as pilgrims in search of hope, we cling to you, Risen Jesus. We turn our backs on death and open our hearts to you, for you are Life itself.

Pope Francis

We have fun while learning.

STEM holiday workshops

The University of Technology Sydney is holding STEM workshops during the Easter holiday period which may be of interest to Gioia House families. Please find more information about them here.

Calendar dates

  • 30 March – Gioia House Holy Week Liturgy
  • 31 March – Year 6 Excursion – Royal Botanical Gardens & Art Gallery 
  • 5 April – Last day of Term 1
  • 26 April – Term 2 commences 
  • 24-26 May – Year 5 Outdoor Education Experience at Tallong
  • 1 June – K-6 Athletics Carnival
  • 20 June – Reports are available to parents.
  • 14-15 June – Parent-Teacher Online Interviews
  • 13-15 September – Year 6 Outdoor Education Experience at Tallong

Stella Azizian
Head of Gioia House