Dear Parents and Carers,

“I ask all educational institutions to inaugurate a season that speaks to the hearts of the new generations, recomposing knowledge and meaning, competence and responsibility, faith and life.”
— Pope Leo XIV

In the coming days, the Vatican will release a significant document marking 60 years since Gravissimum Educationis—the landmark declaration on Catholic education from Vatican II. This anniversary is more than a historical moment; it is a call to renew our mission in light of today’s realities.

The Holy Father’s words remind us of the challenge and privilege we share: to speak to the hearts of young people, to weave together knowledge and meaning, competence and responsibility, faith and life. Catholic education is not simply about information—it is about transformation, helping students encounter goodness, beauty, and truth at the very core of their being.

In this same spirit, Pope Leo XIV will name St John Henry Newman as co-patron of Catholic education, alongside St Thomas Aquinas. Newman’s vision of education as a formation of the whole person sits beautifully beside Aquinas’ profound theological insight. Together, they stand as guiding lights for our work into the future.

St Francis of Assisi Feast Week

This week, we have celebrated St Francis of Assisi Feast Week, honouring the feast day of our patron saint, which always falls during the school holidays. St Francis reminds us of the beauty of creation and the call to live with peace, humility, and service at the heart of our lives.

Throughout the week, our community has embraced his spirit of compassion and stewardship. Each day, students engaged in activities designed to bring St Francis’s vision and values alive—fostering care for one another and for the world around us.

Today, we concluded our celebrations with a joyful Variety Concert, a wonderful opportunity for our students to share their gifts and talents. It was a fitting way to end a week that has been rich in reflection, creativity, and community.

I extend my sincere thanks to Sharee Thomas for her leadership in organising this special week, and to all staff who supported the activities and made this celebration meaningful for our students.

World Teachers’ Day

Today, we celebrate World Teachers’ Day, a moment to recognise the dedication, passion, and impact of our teachers. Teaching is not just a profession—it is a vocation that shapes lives and builds futures.

On behalf of our school community, we say a heartfelt thank you to all our teachers for the incredible work you do every day. Your commitment to our students and your care for their growth make a profound difference.

As a gesture of appreciation, the school community council has organised a thank-you lunch for staff today on behalf of the whole school community. We hope this small token reflects the deep gratitude we feel for all you contribute to our community.

Strategic Plan

We have now completed our Strategic Plan for 2026–2028 and shared it for feedback with Catholic Education, parents who attended the recent Community Council open meeting, and our staff.

In the coming fortnight, the leadership team will begin work on our Annual Improvement Plan for 2026, and will have it ready for the start of 2026. Both documents will be available on the school website and in the Documents section of your Compass app, in the coming weeks.

Playground Access After School

From next week, the playground will be closed to parents and students after school. Our BASCA program has grown significantly, and we’ve noticed some students heading to the playground unsupervised once the bell goes. This has made it challenging for BASCA staff to supervise both enrolled students and those playing outside.

To ensure the safety and well-being of all children, we ask that families not use the equipment or ovals after school. The Community Council is currently exploring options to maintain opportunities for connection after school for parents who would like to stay. One option already available is the Library, which is open to parents and students on Mondays after school—a great space to connect with other families and enjoy time with your children.

Classes for 2026

We will soon begin the process of forming classes for 2026—a task that is both important and complex. Our teachers take great care in considering a range of factors to ensure balanced and supportive learning environments. These include:

• Additional needs
• Work habits
• Cognitive ability
• Friendships
• Behaviour
• Gender
• Health considerations
• Religion (to assist in achieving balance, especially in Sacramental years)
• Common names

Our goal is to create classes with an even spread of positive and challenging characteristics. Where practical, parental requests based on genuine educational considerations will be taken into account.

If you have specific considerations regarding your child’s placement, please provide these in writing via email to me sean.rutledge@cg.catholic.edu.au no later than COB Friday, 14 November (Week 5). Parental concerns with genuine educational considerations will be examined and seriously considered during the process. However, it must be clearly understood that there is no guarantee that these can be honoured.

Leaving in 2026

If your child will not be attending SFA in 2026, please email the front office to let us know. This information is essential for planning and preparation, and as part of legislative requirements, we must record the school your child will be enrolled in on our exit register.

Blessings and best wishes

Sean Rutledge

Principal