Ash Wednesday
Yesterday started the very important time of the year in our Liturgical calendar, being Lent. Over the next 40 days Jesus asks us to commit to the preparation of his death and resurrection through prayer, giving almes and fasting.
The Pope’s speaks to us about the upcoming Lenten journey, by saying,
“In addition to the Scriptures, the Lord speaks to us through our brothers and sisters, especially in the faces and the stories of those who are in need.”
Pope Francis: 2023
To celebrate Ash Wednesday, our students in Years 4 to 6 participated in an Ash Wednesday Mass, where Fr Chris encouraged the students to remember the things we are called to do during Lent, being the acronym A-F-P: Almes Giving, Fasting and Prayer. Our students in Years Pre Primary to Year 3 celebrated an Ash Wednesday Liturgy with Fr Chris. During both the Mass and Liturgy, all students received the Lenten Ashes as part of the celebrations.
Inter House Swimming Carnival
Congratulations to all of the students who participated in the St Damien’s CPS Swimming Carnival last Friday. It was amazing to see how all students, no matter what their swimming ability, try their very best during the carnival. The weather provided a fantastic day which complemented the students getting in and out of the water so regularly and staying shaded and warm when out of the pool.
The final outcome of the day for our factions houses was as follows:
· 1st: Melros
· 2nd: Florida
· 3rd: Bouvard
· 4th: Wannanup
There were some outstanding individual efforts on the day, with a number of our students being awarded with both ‘Runner’s Up’ and ‘Champion’ Boy and Girl swimmers for each Year level. Congratulations goes to these students for their individual successes.
We had great support from the parent community as volunteers during the carnival. A big thank you to all of the parents who did volunteer and contribute to the success of the carnival.
A special thank you to Miss Sanders for all of her efforts in planning, coordinating and running the swimming carnival this year. She did an amazing job ensuring all students got the opportunity to participate and enjoy the event. She was supported by all of the school staff and I thank them for their efforts during the day, as well.
Some of the students in the school qualified to compete in the upcoming Inter-School Swimming Carnival, which will be held on Monday, 3 April 2023.
Baby News
I am very happy to announce that Mrs Megan Povey (Pre Primary Gold) and her husband are expecting their first child later this year. We congratulate them both and hope the pursuing months go smoothly as they prepare for parenthood.
Sun-Screen Stations
A BIG thank you to the P&F for their purchasing of new sun-screen stations for the school. The stations have been put in each learning area for students to use throughout the day, when needed. These are also a very useful acquisition, particularly for future outdoor sports and carnivals.
Friday Morning Assembly
Just a reminder to parents that our first Friday morning assembly will be held on this Friday 24 February, with the Year 1 class presenting an item. Parents and friends are welcome to come and join us in the hall for this event, as St Damien’s and Principal’s Awards will be presented to the deserved students.
Pupil-Free Day
There is a pupil free day on Friday 3 March. Staff will be using this day for Professional Development in the area of health and wellbeing. Please put this important school closure day in your diaries.
School Calendar
Parents are encouraged to visit the school’s term planner on a regular basis to ensure you are informed about upcoming events during the year. The term planner can be accessed by clicking on the following link: School Events Calendar
Principal Award
Over the past week a student has been sent to my office to receive a Principal’s Award for completing some exceptional work. I congratulate Alex Merks, from Year 6 Blue, for his great work in Writing. Well done and keep up the great work!
God Bless,
Daniel Gooch
Principal
