Dear Parents and Carers

Every year, during August the Federal Government conducts a census of the school’s population. The numbers are critically important because they are linked to the various forms of funding for which the school is eligible.

Equally important, the numbers provide a snapshot of the diversity of our community which has changed dramatically during the past ten years. It also provides an insight into how schools attempt to meet the needs of all children, particularly those who may have challenges accessing an area of the curriculum.

At St Matthew’s some of this funding is used to support an extremely experienced Learning Support team, comprised of four teachers (Ms Talbot, Mrs Quinane, Mrs Williams, and Mrs Cole) plus six Learning Support Assistants.

For your information:

Total Enrolment: 346 children

Children on Personalised Plans: 69

Children whose first language is other than English: 67

Children who identify as Indigenous: 8

District Athletics Carnival
Next Tuesday approximately forty children will represent our school at the Belconnen District Athletics Carnival. The children gained selection by placing at our carnival two weeks ago. They will be accompanied by Mrs Powell and myself.

Congratulations and best wishes to all our representatives.

Students Leaving St Matthew’s
Could you please inform our Front Office on office.stmatts@cg.catholic.edu.au  if your child is leaving St Matthew’s to attend another school in 2024. Our school is under enrolment pressure in some grades, and it is important that we give prospective families accurate information.

Year Six families (2023) need not respond.

Rostrum Public Speaking
Congratulations to Millie Fletcher who has successfully moved to the Semi Final stage of the Rostrum Public Speaking competition. Millie will next speak at Harrison School on Wednesday 16^th August.

Congratulations Millie and good luck in the next round.

Vandalism
Unfortunately, the vandalism, which was occurring at our school, in the form of broken windows, is reoccurring once again. You can appreciate how disruptive, and potentially dangerous these attacks can be for our children.

You may have noticed that sensor lights have been installed around the building to dissuade our “visitors”. The Police have been alerted to the damage and would welcome your call if you notice any suspicious activity.

May God bless you and your families this week. 

Graham Pollard
Principal