Head of Primary P-6

The month of October is dedicated to the Holy Rosary, a time for us to reflect on the life of Jesus and the love of Mary. As we pray the Rosary, we are invited to slow down, to find peace in God’s presence, and to open our hearts to His grace. It is a prayer of hope, reminding us that through faith and love, we are never alone.

‘Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you.’
– Luke 1:28

It is our students who make Santa such a special place, and they are true ambassadors of our College. A key highlight of last week was our Discovery Tour, where student representatives from each grade took part in a Q&A panel for prospective parents. Speaking openly about their experiences, our students shared what they love about their learning, their friendships and their teachers. Families were deeply impressed by their confidence, their genuine sense of belonging and the joy and love of learning that shone through as they spoke about their school. Thank you to our wonderful student representatives for representing the College with such warmth and pride. You made us all very proud.

Staff Professional Learning

The beginning of Term 4 has been a busy and exciting time of learning for our teachers. Over the past few weeks, staff have taken part in a series of professional learning meetings and planning workshops, diving deeply into the new Science and Technology Syllabus. Teachers have been unpacking the syllabus rationale, outcomes and content, while also developing scope and sequences and units of work for 2027. Throughout this planning, they have been intentional in creating rich opportunities for students to build their knowledge and skills, think critically and pose meaningful questions about the world around them. A key emphasis of these sessions has been strengthening connections across the curriculum. Teachers explored how students’ skills in creating written texts can be developed and reinforced through other Key Learning Areas, so that scientific inquiry also becomes an opportunity to explain, describe, analyse and reason in writing. Careful attention has also been given to ensuring continuity and progression from Prep to Year 6, so that each year builds purposefully on the learning that came before.

Primary Information Evening

We were delighted to welcome our new families joining the College in 2027 to our Primary Information Evening. It was a wonderful opportunity for families to meet our staff, learn more about life in the Primary School and begin connecting with one another as members of our Santa community. Families heard about our approach to teaching and learning, our pastoral care programs, unique opportunities and the Dominican values that guide all that we do. Many stayed afterwards to ask questions and share in conversation. Thank you to all the families who joined us and to the staff who helped make the evening so warm and welcoming. We look forward to beginning this journey together next year.

Continuing on our learning journey

As the year draws to a close, we have planned several Experience Days to support our students as they transition to the next stage of their learning journey, particularly our youngest students in Prep, who are getting ready to step into their first year of formal schooling. Our Year 4 girls recently enjoyed a special visit to Gioia House, where they met with Mrs Brooks, explored the learning spaces, shared lunch on the oval with our Year 5 and 6 students and, of course, bought treats from the College canteen. We now look forward to our Experience Day on Friday 6 November, when our Del Monte girls will join the new students for the day. It will be a wonderful opportunity to connect with one another and their teachers, and to learn more about Gioia House and the senior campus. Our Year 4 boys will take part in reflection and transition activities on Del Monte campus and will hear from former Del Monte boys about what to expect when they start at their new school next year.

2027 Class Lists

Class lists for 2027 will be released to families in the final week of Term 4. We understand the anticipation that comes with the start of a new school year, particularly for students joining Santa Sabina for the first time.

While we strive to consider parent requests, class placement is a complex process that takes into account each child’s academic progress, social and emotional wellbeing, peer relationships and overall class balance. Our teachers invest great care, thought and collaboration in these decisions. Fostering new relationships is a key part of our educational process, helping students to expand their social circles and to understand that friendships can evolve. We appreciate your understanding of the complexities involved in class placement and remain committed to creating an enriching and supportive environment for all our students.

Loving God,
As we pray the Rosary this month, may our hearts be filled with peace and gratitude.
Through the intercession of Mary, help us to follow Jesus with faith and courage,
and to share Your love with those around us.
Amen

Mrs Stella Azizian
Head of Primary P-6

Important dates in Term 4