Head of Primary P-6
In the quiet of Lent, let us listen more intently to God’s voice, reminding us that in the wilderness, we are not alone, for He walks beside us, guiding and renewing our spirit.
Last week, our school community gathered to observe Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of Lent, a season of reflection, prayer, and renewal. Students across all grades participated in a meaningful Ash Wednesday liturgy, where they learnt about the importance of prayer, reflection and renewal. Through class discussions and activities, they explored the importance of self-discipline, kindness, and growing closer to God during this sacred season.
It has been a joy to see our students settling into their school routines, building new friendships, and engaging in a wide range of learning experiences with enthusiasm. The start of the year is always an exciting time, filled with new challenges, discoveries and opportunities for growth.
Last week, our Year 4 students had an unforgettable experience at their Outdoor Education Experience in Tallong. The camp was a great success, bringing students closer together, challenging them to step out of their comfort zones, and fostering teamwork and resilience – not to mention their newfound appreciation for the five-star meals prepared by our renowned Chef Jeffrey!
Meanwhile, our youngest learners have been actively engaged in hands-on learning. Prep students have been developing their fine motor skills through dough and slime-making activities, while Kindergarten students have been exploring letters and numbers, setting strong foundations for literacy and numeracy. Year 3 and 5 students have been preparing for NAPLAN, building confidence ahead of their assessments.
Students in Gioia House participated in an insightful presentation by Constable Jim, who spoke about the importance of cybersafety and healthy relationships, equipping them with valuable knowledge to navigate the online world and build respectful connections.
A highlight of the week was our Del Monte first school assembly, proudly led by our Year 2 students. With enthusiasm and confidence, they shared their learning experiences with the community.
It is inspiring to witness our students embracing every opportunity to learn, grow, and connect. Thank you to our dedicated staff for making these experiences so enriching. We look forward to many more exciting moments ahead!
AIS NUMERACY PROJECT UPDATE
Our P-6 teachers have actively engaged in the second module of the AIS Numeracy Project professional development, focusing on analysing student screening assessment data to inform targeted teaching and learning strategies. As part of this process, all teaching staff met with AIS Consultant Henrietta Miller and me to plan for specific improvements in numeracy instruction.
A key focus of this module is the implementation of Daily Reviews, a structured 10–15 minute review at the beginning of each maths lesson. Research indicates that regular retrieval and revision of previously learned concepts reinforces knowledge, enhances retention and boosts student confidence in mathematics. This ongoing professional learning reflects our commitment to enhancing numeracy outcomes across all levels.
INTERIM REPORTS
As mentioned in Ms Skerman’s communications earlier this term, we are continually working to strengthen communication between the school and families. In line with this, we are pleased to introduce the Interim Report, which will be shared with families at the end of Term 1. This report will provide insights into students’ behaviour, work ethic and engagement, helping families and teachers collaboratively set practical goals to support student progress.
The Interim Report will also include an invitation or request for a Parent-Teacher Interview in Week 1 of Term 2, allowing for meaningful discussions about each child’s learning journey. Additionally, Semester 1 Reports will be released to parents at the end of Semester 1, providing a comprehensive overview of student achievement and growth.
KINDERGARTEN AND YEAR 4 BUDDIES
This Thursday, our Kindergarten students were introduced to their Year 4 buddies, marking the beginning of a wonderful peer support program. The Kindergarten and Year 4 Buddies Program fosters friendship, mentorship, and a sense of belonging, helping our youngest learners feel supported as they settle into school life. Year 4 students take on a leadership role, guiding and encouraging their younger peers through play, shared activities, and positive interactions. This program not only builds confidence and social skills but also strengthens our school community by creating meaningful connections between students across year levels. We look forward to seeing these friendships grow throughout the year!
STUDENT LEADERSHIP
In Week 4 we commissioned the newly elected Del Monte and Gioia House leaders at our induction liturgy. Congratulations to 2025 student leaders and we wish them a great year ahead. Embrace every opportunity and enjoy your journey.
Santa Maria del Monte Student Leadership Team – 2025
| NAME | POSITION |
| William Lu | DEL MONTE CAPTAIN |
| Romey Dib | DEL MONTE CAPTAIN |
| Alissa Khouzame | FAITH AND IDENTITY LEADER |
| Chloe Cruz | ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY LEADER |
| Sophia Tadros | SOCIAL JUSTICE LEADER |
| Yousseff Taouk | SPORTS LEADER |
| Dominic Aldridge-Chow | WELLBEING LEADER |
| Makenzie Wong | ARTS LEADER |
Santa Maria del Monte House Leaders – 2025
| NAME | HOUSE |
| Priscilla Peng DJ Abi-Hanna | GUNAGULLA |
| Eloise Wood Serah Sara | KURRAWA |
| Mariah Zanon Jordan Gebrael | MUNDAWORA |
| Mark Khawaja Mya Charbel | TEANGI |
| Charlotte Smolcic Evelyn Metledge | WEELYA |
| Audrey Tita Isabel Horwood | YETINGA |
Gioia House Student Leadership Team – 2025
| NAME | POSITION |
| Addison Nasr | GIOIA HOUSE CAPTAIN |
| Evangeline Notaras | GIOIA HOUSE CAPTAIN |
| Alana Dib | FAITH AND IDENTITY LEADER |
| Grace Mackey | ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY LEADER |
| Emma Cooper | SOCIAL JUSTICE LEADER |
| Ariana Cassamity | SPORTS LEADER |
| Bianca McLeod | WELLBEING LEADER |
| Eloise Lai | ARTS LEADER |
Gioia House House Leaders – 2025
| NAME | HOUSE |
| Sophia Rakich-Mastoris | GUNAGULLA |
| Mila Ferko | KURRAWA |
| Rafqa Chidiac | MUNDAWORA |
| Chiara Mazza | TEANGI |
| Zoe Garrett | WEELYA |
| Kate Hennessy | YETINGA |
Harmony Day
Harmony Day is celebrated around Australia on 21 March each year. It’s a day when all Australians celebrate our cultural diversity. It gives people the opportunity to celebrate what makes each Australian unique and share what we have in common. The continuing message for Harmony Day is that Everyone Belongs, which means all Australians are a welcome part of our country, regardless of their background.
The students will be involved in Harmony Week activities. On Tuesday 18 March, the College will celebrate Harmony Day, engaging students in activities in their House groups across Prep to Year 12. To partake in the spirit of the day, students are encouraged to wear their sports uniforms along with shirts representing their House colours or alternative sports shirts.
On Friday 21 March, students are invited to wear a splash of orange, the official colour for Harmony Day. Some suggestions are listed below:
- shoelaces
- hair ribbons
- socks
- scrunchies
- head bands
- hats.
PARENT HELPERS 2025
If you would like to be a parent helper on the Primary Campus in 2025, please complete the Google form below.
We will then contact new parent helper nominees for an induction and share information about the sessions.
If you have any questions, please contact Neda via email n.korman@ssc.nsw.edu.au
Loving God, as we journey through Lent, help us to open our hearts to You. May we grow in faith, kindness, and compassion, following the example of Jesus.
Stella Azizian
Head of Primary P-6
CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAM
Gioia House Co-curricular activities include:
Creative Experience Club – Monday lunchtime with Ms Trees
Writers’ Club – Monday lunchtime with Ms Anetter
Ethics Olympiad – Monday lunchtime with Ms Azizian
Performing Arts Club – Tuesday lunchtime with Ms Watkins
IPSHA Debating – Tuesdays after school 3:30pm – 4:10pm with Ms Milicic and Ms Di Ciaccio
Homework Club – Tuesday after school in the SSC Library from 3:30pm – 4:15pm with Ms Kostakis
Kitchen Garden Club – Wednesday lunchtime with Mr Dunphy
Coding & Robotics – Wednesday lunchtime with Ms Maks
Crochet Club – Thursday lunchtime with Ms Tierney
IMPORTANT CALENDAR DATES
DEL MONTE AND GIOIA HOUSE
Wednesday 12 March – Monday 24 March – Year 3 and 5 NAPLAN
Tuesday 18 March – P-12 Harmony Day celebrations
Wednesday 19 March –Gioia House Bake & Treat Sale
Friday 21 March – P-12 Harmony Day
Monday 24 March – Primary Sydney Catholic Schools Sydney Swimming Championship
Tuesday 25 March – Gioia House Sydney Catholic Schools Sydney Netball Trials
Tuesday 1 April – Gioia House Sydney Catholic Schools Conference 2 Touch Football Trials
Thursday 3 April – Del Monte Year 3 Assembly – 2:33-3:00pm DM Hall
Thursday 10 April – Del Monte Holy Week Liturgy – 2:00-3:00pm DM Hall
Friday 11 April – Term 1 concludes