Head of Primary P-6

It has been a joyful start to the school year as we warmly welcomed our students back. Our students have settled beautifully into the first weeks of Term 1, spending time getting to know their class teachers, reconnecting with friends and forming new relationships within their classes. I extend a warm welcome to all new and existing families, and I look forward to getting to know you throughout the year. 

A highlight of the opening weeks was the arrival of our new Kindergarten, Prep and Year 5 students, along with several new students joining us across other year levels.

Our teachers began the year with three days of professional learning focused on explicit teaching for critical thinking. These workshops strengthened our shared approach to ensuring cognitive skills and the values of inquiry are explicitly taught across all learning areas, with meaningful opportunities created for students to practise and apply these skills. This professional learning underpins our commitment to high-quality teaching and learning for every child.

Del Monte Parent-Teacher Meet-and-Greet provided a valuable opportunity to share information, build strong partnerships and begin the year with open communication between home and school. 

In Gioia House, students enjoyed buddy activities as they met their ‘big school sisters,’ helping our younger students feel supported and connected as they transition into this next stage of their learning journey.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL

A kind reminder to families to ensure the safety of our children, Kiss and Drop Zone is designed for swift entry and exit, aiming to reduce congestion and enhance safety when used considerately by all parents and carers. They operate under the same conditions as no parking zones, allowing a brief stop of a maximum of two minutes for dropping off or picking up children. During this time, we kindly ask that you remain in or close to your vehicle.

Please ensure your designated sign is clearly displayed on your front left-hand side windshield.

YEAR 4 LEADERSHIP DAY

This week, our Year 4 students participated in a Leadership Day, where they explored the qualities of effective leadership, learned about leadership roles from older students, and began developing ideas for their own leadership speeches. 

GIOIA HOUSE CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS

Gioia House students were introduced to the range of co-curricular opportunities available for 2026 and how they can become actively involved in these programs. Soon, students and families will receive an email with the co-curricular registration form and a detailed description of each co-curricular program. Please note that some clubs have limited numbers due to the nature of the competition. 

  • IPSHA Debating (maximum 12 students)
  • Ethics Olympiad (maximum 12 students) 
  • Homework Club 
  • Public Speaking –TED Talk
  • Creative Arts Clubs 
  • Writers’ Club 
  • Robotics Club
  • Soccer FIFA Championship
  • Kitchen Garden

YEAR 6 LEADERSHIP

Last week, Gioia House students were inspired by our College Captain, who spoke thoughtfully about the difference between true leadership and popularity. She engaged openly with students’ questions and encouraged them to consider leadership as an opportunity to serve others with integrity. Nominations for leadership positions are now open, with students given access to the nomination form, which will close on Friday 6 February.

On 11 February, our Year 6 students will participate in a Leadership Day designed to inspire and challenge them as emerging leaders within our school community. The day will provide rich opportunities for students to reflect on their inner gifts and strengths as leaders, encouraging them to lead with confidence and purpose. This incursion will focus on Leading With Character, supporting students in developing qualities such as integrity, empathy, responsibility and service. We look forward to a meaningful and engaging day that will empower our Year 6 students to embrace their leadership roles with authenticity and heart.

I look forward to seeing you at our Parent Information Evening and Welcome Drinks on Thursday 5 February. 

Thank you for your ongoing support, and I look forward to working together throughout the year. 

For three gather in my name, there am I with them.

Matthew 18:20

Stella Azizian
Head of Primary P-6

CALENDAR EVENTS

Term 1 Important Calendar Events

  • Thursday 5 February K-4 Parents Information Session and Welcome Drinks
  • Friday 6 February K-4 School Photographs
  • Tuesday 10 February Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) Conference 2 Swimming Championships
  • Sunday 15 February Tallong Open Day 10:00am–3:30pm Please let us know for catering purposes if you are coming.
  • Wednesday 18 February Ash Wednesday
  • Thursday 19 February College Swimming Carnival (Years 3-12)
  • Friday 20 February School Photograph Catch Up Session
  • Thursday 26 February Discovery Tour 9:00am–11:30am (for prospective College families)
  • Thursday 26 February K-6 Welcoming Mass, Commissioning of School Leader Mass and Kindergarten Dancing We warmly invite parents to join us for the Welcoming Mass at 1:45pm in the Santa Sabina Chapel, followed by a special Kindergarten Dancing welcoming ritual on Dom’s Plot.
  • Thursday 5 March International Women’s Day supper and guest panel discussion
  • Wednesday 11 March – Monday 23 March NAPLAN (Years 3 & 5) test window
  • Friday 13 March P&F Mums/Dads Night out Years 5, 7, Kindergarten and Prep
  • Tuesday 17 March Harmony Day
  • Friday 20 March Primary Cross Country Trials (Years 2-6)
  • Friday 20 March P-6 Disco
  • Monday 23 March SCS Swimming Championships
  • Wednesday 1 April Holy Week Liturgy, CSNSW Mackillop Swimming Championships,Term 1 concludes