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STM NEWS | Term 2, Week 10, 2025

Dear Families,

Can you believe we’re already halfway through the school year? It feels like we blinked, and Term 2 was gone—where has the time gone? It’s been an incredibly full and enriching ten weeks, bursting with learning, activities, and moments of celebration.

Highlights have included our wonderful Feast Day Celebration last Friday, our Mother’s Day Morning Tea, celebrations during Catholic Education Week, and the vibrant Reconciliation Week activities—including our delicious donuts! Most importantly, it’s been amazing to see our students striving every day to be the best versions of themselves. So, after what has been a jam-packed term at St Thomas More School, our last day for our students is tomorrow, Friday 4 July. School finishes at the usual time of 3:00pm. Our students return on Tuesday 22 July. Please be aware that Monday is a Pupil Free Day as staff undertake professional development.

As Term 2 draws to a close, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all our families for your ongoing support, encouragement, and partnership in your child’s learning journey. Your involvement and commitment make a real difference in the life of our school. We understand that school life can bring challenges from time to time. As a dedicated community, we do our very best to listen, respond, and work together to resolve issues and conflicts with compassion and care. As a Catholic school, we approach this important work with the dignity of every child at its heart—ensuring that each student is respected, supported, and uplifted throughout their educational journey.

The holidays are a well-earned opportunity to pause, reflect, and recharge. We hope the coming weeks bring your family rest, joy, and time together. Whether you’re enjoying a staycation or heading off on an adventure, we wish you a safe and rejuvenating break. A sincere thank you also goes to our incredible staff, who have poured so much energy and care into this term. May this holiday be a chance to unwind and refuel for the exciting term ahead.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back for Term 3—refreshed, inspired, and ready for more rich learning, new goals, and meaningful moments together. Take care, and happy holidays!

Shaping our future together,
The Leadership Team

Celebrating our School Feast Day - Honouring St Thomas More

As our school community gathered last Friday to celebrate the Feast Day of St Thomas More. During this day, we reflected on the remarkable legacy of a man whose life demonstrated unwavering courage, profound wisdom, and deep faith.

St Thomas More was a man of principle. He stood boldly for honesty and justice, even in the face of immense personal sacrifice. He followed his conscience with grace and dignity, staying true to his faith when the easier path might have been to compromise. His life reminds us that doing what is right isn’t always simple—but it is always meaningful.

During our whole school liturgy, we also reflected on the Gospel of the Good Samaritan—a story that beautifully complements St Thomas More’s virtues. In this parable, Jesus teaches us about compassion, empathy, and the moral courage to help others without prejudice. The Samaritan did not walk past the injured man, even though they came from opposing communities. Instead, he stopped, helped, and ensured the man was cared for—demonstrating that every human being is a neighbour worthy of love and kindness.

This message resonates deeply with the Mercy Values that shape our school culture: compassion, justice, hospitality, and respect. Just as St Thomas More lived with moral conviction and the Good Samaritan acted with selfless compassion, we strive to cultivate these values in our children every day. We want them to grow as individuals who stand for truth, reach out with kindness, and live with mercy in their hearts. May our students be inspired to follow in the footsteps of St Thomas More and the Good Samaritan: to stand strong in their beliefs, to treat others with love, and to be courageous in their pursuit of what is right.

Our day was made even more special with our whole school enjoying a beautiful walk to Freemont Park where the children, played, laughed, had fun, enjoyed the opportunity to explore the amazing play facilities. It was a wonderful day made possible through the hard work of Mrs Musolino, staff, student leaders and parents who assisted as volunteers on the day. A huge thank you to everyone.

Class Update | Reception MD

Here is an update from our very busy Reception MD class group:

Over the last two weeks, the students in Reception MD have been learning all about Saint Thomas More, the patron saint of our school. They have learned that young Thomas More studied hard and loved learning. He wanted to follow God and to do what was right. Thomas became a lawyer, helped many people and was known for being honest and wise. Thomas was imprisoned and died for defending his faith. We made some fantastic Saint Thomas More hats and medallions to wear on Feast Day and had a great day celebrating!

 

“St Thomas More loved God very much.” (Amber)
“St Thomas More worked for the King.” (Jaxon)
“St Thomas More made good choices.” (Arlo)
“St Thomas More prayed to God.” (Arek)
“St Thomas More tried his best.” (Ashley)
“St Thomas More was kind.” (Dominik)

Mid-Year Receptions

Our Mid-Year Receptions completed their transition to school visits and are now ready as ever to commence school for the very first time in Term 3. We are delighted to welcome these young learners and their families into our school community, where they will embark on a journey of discovery, friendship, and growth. This is a special moment for both students and parents, and we look forward to embracing them with warmth, encouragement, and the support they need to thrive.

Semester One Report and Learning Conversations

By now you would have received your child’s Semester 1 Report. This report provides a detailed summary of your child’s learning progress throughout the first half of this year. Included with the report is a letter to encourage you to book a Learning Conversation with your child’s teacher.

We encourage all families to book a time online so the report can be shared and discussed. We are using the same booking process as last term. Please contact the Front Office or your child’s teacher directly if you require support making a booking.

Keeping Our School Clean - Yard Token Challenge Success!

This term, our students have enthusiastically embraced the Yard Token Challenge, a fun and rewarding initiative aimed at keeping our school grounds clean and tidy. With a strong focus on throwing rubbish in the bin and creating positive habits around caring for our environment, students have shown great responsibility and team spirit. As a result, our yard has never looked better—cleaner, brighter, and more welcoming for all!

The challenge encouraged students to earn tokens for every act of litter collection and good stewardship. Not only did this inspire friendly competition, but it also fostered a deeper understanding of how small actions can lead to big changes. It’s been heartening to see our young leaders take pride in their school surroundings and set the tone for a cleaner future. Next term, the challenge will continue—so keep those bins in sight and those tokens coming!

Congratulations to this term’s Yard Token Champions: Miss Fischer’s Year 1 / 2 Class and Miss Mawhinney Year 2 Class both earing 125 Tokens

They will get to enjoy a class celebration next term as recognition for their outstanding achievement. A special shout-out to our Reception classes, RBH and RMD, who achieved something truly remarkable this term! Despite having fewer students, they collected an impressive 72 tokens (RBH) and 65 tokens (RMD)—a testament to their incredible enthusiasm and teamwork. Their effort proves that it’s not the size of the group that counts, but the heart and determination behind it!

Let’s carry this momentum forward and show that caring for our environment is always in style!

Exciting Building Update - Our New Spaces Are Almost Here!

We’re thrilled to share that the construction of our new building is nearing completion and is on track for handover in early Term 3! It’s an exciting time for our school as we prepare to enjoy fresh, purpose-built spaces that will support learning and community for years to come.

Over the past fortnight, we have cleared out the Immaculata building in preparation for its demolition, which will take place during the upcoming school holidays. This marks the beginning of Stage 2, which includes the development of our new kiss and drop zone, expanded carpark, and the much-anticipated COLA (Covered Outdoor Learning Area).

As construction moves forward, we will be especially excited to see the landscaping and our eagerly awaited playground coming to fruition —it’s all coming together beautifully! We are incredibly grateful for the patience and understanding shown by our entire school community, and we want to give a special shout-out to our students, who have adapted so graciously during this time of transition.

During this phase, the staff carpark will be unavailable, and all vehicles will need to park in surrounding streets. While this change may be inconvenient, it’s a necessary step toward realising our exciting new vision. We ask that all families please park safely and legally during this time to support a smooth transition.

Access to the school grounds will remain available:

  • Before and After school: via the crossing gates and Shillabeer Road
  • After 8:50 AM: through the pedestrian gate near the front office

We ask families to use this gate only when the crossing gates are closed, in the interest of student safety. Thank you once again for your cooperation and enthusiasm. The end result will be well worth the wait—and we can’t wait to welcome our community into these vibrant new spaces!

Wellbeing at STM

This year at St Thomas More, our staff and students have been beginning our school day with an activity called a ‘welcome circle’.

Our welcome circle focuses on helping students feel safe, connected, and ready to learn. It also aims to be a calm and positive way to start the day. It gives every child a chance to be greeted, feel seen, and share something they are grateful for through a shared discussion called ‘What Went Well’. Developing gratitude is important for children to see the positives in their day, build emotional resilience, and appreciate the people and experiences that support their growth and happiness.

Also as part of this routine, we include a positive primer—a short, uplifting activity like a fun game, a quick movement break, an inspirational YouTube clip or a moment of shared laughter—to boost mood and help everyone shift into a positive mindset. This daily morning routine helps build strong relationships in the classroom and sets a positive tone for learning.

We also do short ‘ready to learn’ check-ins after recess and lunch to see how students are going and whether they feel ready to get back into learning. These simple moments of connection help us support students not just academically, but socially and emotionally too.

Activity

We warmly encourage families to chat with their children about the good parts of their day—big or small (smaller the better!)—as a way to build positivity, confidence, and a grateful mindset.

Questions parents and caregivers ask could be:

  1. What’s one good thing that happened at school today?”
    (Helps children notice and appreciate positive experiences in their day.)
  2. “Was there someone at school who helped you or made you feel good today?”
    (Encourages recognition of kindness and support from others.)
  3. “Did you help someone today? How did that feel?”
    (Reinforces the value of giving and being kind.)
  4. “What’s something about your school or home that you’re really glad you have?”
    (Focuses attention on everyday comforts, people, or resources often taken for granted.)
  5. “What made you smile or laugh today?”
    (Brings awareness to joyful, light moments that can be sources of gratitude.)

Tips from Tess | Making Tooth Brushing Fun!

A note from Tess:

Dear Parents and Carers,

I have been asked on many occasions if I have any ideas about getting students to brush their teeth, here are some ideas, “happy smiles”. We know that getting children to brush their teeth can sometimes feel like a daily battle! The good news is that with the right approach, you can transform this essential routine into something your child actually looks forward to.

Why Does This Matter? Building good dental hygiene habits early sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. When children enjoy brushing their teeth, they’re more likely to continue these habits as they grow older.

Simple Ways to Make Brushing Exciting

Turn it into play time

Transform tooth brushing from a chore into an adventure! Create stories about brave tooth warriors fighting the sugar monsters, or pretend the toothbrush is a magic wand cleaning away invisible germs. Use a two-minute timer and challenge your child to brush until it goes off.

Let them take charge

Give your child some control by letting them choose their own special toothbrush and toothpaste flavour. When children feel involved in the decision-making, they’re more invested in the activity.

Brush together as a family

Children learn best by copying what they see. When you brush your teeth alongside your child, you’re showing them that dental care is important for everyone. This also creates a lovely bonding moment in your daily routine.

Try some tech help!

There are lots of fun toothbrushing apps and YouTube videos designed specifically for children. These often include catchy songs, colourful animations, and timers that make the two minutes fly by.

Keep it consistent

Make tooth brushing happen at the same times each day – ideally after breakfast and before bed. When it becomes part of the routine, children are less likely to resist.

Explain the 'why'?!

Even young children can understand simple explanations about keeping their teeth healthy and strong. Talk about how brushing helps their teeth stay white and prevents “ouchy” feelings.

Start early

If you have younger children, begin cleaning their gums and teeth as soon as they appear. This helps them get used to the sensation from an early age.

Encouragement that works

Celebrate Success | A simple sticker chart, high-five, or enthusiastic “Well done!” can work wonders. Small rewards like an extra bedtime story or five more minutes of play time can motivate reluctant brushers.

Stay Positive | If your child is having an off day, try to stay calm and patient. Sometimes a gentle reminder about keeping their smile bright is all they need.

Extra Tips for Success

Consider trying an electric toothbrush if your child shows interest – many children find the vibration and novelty appealing. Remember that children under 8 will still need help with brushing, so don’t worry about stepping in to help them reach all areas properly. If you’re continuing to have challenges despite trying these strategies, your child’s dentist can offer personalised advice and may spot any issues that need addressing. Remember, that every child is different, and what works for one might not work for another. Be patient with yourself and your child as you find the approach that works best for your family.

Here’s to happy, healthy smiles!
Tess Boyd – Student Counsellor

Catholic School Festival Choir

On Tuesday our Senior choir ventured to Our Lady of Hope School for their workshop and Hub assessment ahead of a busy term where they will prepare for their performance at the Festival Theatre. Our students under the amazing guidance of Mrs Villano sounded incredible and already know the songs and actions so well. Stay tuned for more updates from our Festival Choir throughout the year.

Learn More

 

Children's University

On Wednesday, our Year 3/4 students who are enrolled in the Children’s University program enjoyed an exciting adventure with the Children’s University “Uni for a Day” program—a vibrant experience designed to spark imagination and ignite curiosity. They stepped into the world of higher education, explored interactive learning activities, and got a taste of life on campus. From science experiments to creative workshops, the day encouraged them to dream big and see themselves as future scholars. It was a joyful reminder that learning can happen anywhere—and that the possibilities for our young learners are endless! Thanks to all those who made this possible.

Lost Property - End of Term

Our Lost Property tub is overflowing. Please encourage your child to have a look through if they have misplaced their school jacket or any other items. Alternatively, feel free to have a look when you are at school to pick up or drop off. We appreciate that school uniforms come at a cost, so it is important that items are clearly labelled.

Important Dates | Term 3

Monday, 21 July | Pupil Free Day (please book your child in with OSHC if necessary asap)

Tuesday, 22 July | First Day of Term 3

Monday, 28 July – Wednesday, 30 July | Learning Conversations

Wednesday, 30 July | Wednesday, 6 August | SEDA College Basketball Clinics

Friday, 1 August | MSP Photography – School Photo Day

Monday, 4 August | Catholic Schools Open Week

Monday, 4 August | National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day

Tuesday, 5 August | Year 3 – 6 Catholic Schools Cross Country Carnival

Thursday, 7 August | Andrew Chinn Visits STM

Friday, 8 August | 9.15am Year 1/2 JF and 4/5 GB Buddy Liturgy

Friday, 8 August | Feast Day of St Mary of the Cross McKillop

Monday, 11 August | Science Week & Bullying NO WAY Week

Tuesday, 12 August | 12pm Year 3 – 6 Student Mass (Led by Student Leaders)

Friday, 15 August | Feast of the Assumption of Mary

Monday, 18 August | Book Week (Book Week Parade Date TBC)

Friday, 22 August | 9.15am Year 5/6 MT and 3 RG Buddy Liturgy

Monday, 1 September | National Child Protection Week

Monday, 1 September | Year 3 – 6 Touch Football Carnival

Friday, 5 September | Feast of Mother Teresa

Friday, 5 September | 9.15am Year 2 MM and REC MD Liturgy

Tuesday, 9 September | Feast Day of Frederick Ozanam

Tuesday, 9 September | 12pm Year 3 – 6 Mass (Led by 3/4SH and 3/4 KJ)

Wednesday, 17 September | Year 3 – 5 T-Ball Carnival

Friday, 19 September | 9.15am Year 1 Liturgy

Monday, 21 September | International Day of Peace

Tuesday, 23 September | Catholic Schools Musica Festival Performance (More information to follow)

Thursday, 25 September | Final Day of Term 3

Thursday, 25 September | 9.15am Liturgy 5/6 RT and REC BH

Friday, 26 September | Pupil Free Day

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