It is exciting to be writing my first newsletter as Assistant Principal. The start to the school year has been busy and energising, with staff participating in a system-wide professional development day on Friday, followed by a school-based professional development day and planning day. Everyone has returned refreshed and ready to embark on the learning journey with their 2025 classes this week. A special welcome to all our Kindergarten students who began today, and to our new families joining us this year. I look forward to meeting all of you over the coming weeks!

I have had the privilege of working at St Bernard’s for the past 14 years, and this year, I have taken on a new role. Many parents have asked if I will still be involved with the Classroom Support Team, and I want to assure you that I remain strongly committed to this role. I’m excited to combine it with my responsibilities as Assistant Principal.

In my new role, I will be collaborating with our Principal, Karen Hadley, and the leadership team: Rebecca Keough (Religious Education Coordinator), Jennifer Smith (Instructional Leader), and Matt Lowe (Instructional Leader). Together, we will work to ensure that our school runs smoothly and that both students and staff receive the support they need to achieve their best.

Leadership and Decision-Making

A key part of my role is supporting Karen and the leadership team in making informed decisions that align with our school’s mission and values. We are always planning for future growth and progress. One of our major focuses for 2025 will be strengthening the teaching and learning curriculum in Mathematics. While we have placed a strong emphasis on literacy in recent years, this year, we will shift some of that focus to Mathematics. To kick-start this initiative, we will introduce the Early Numeracy Screening Project in Term 1, which will involve both students and staff in Kindergarten and Year One.

Classroom Support

I am deeply passionate about supporting students and families, which is why I am excited to continue my role as the Classroom Support Coordinator. I am fortunate to have an incredible team supporting me in this role, including Briana Rosenbaum and a team of 14 Classroom Support Assistants. Together, we will continue to provide ongoing support across the school for individual students, interventions, telecare, and NCCD adjustments.

In addition to this, I will be coordinating small groups for Mathematics Enrichment, in collaboration with Rebecca Keough to provide Mathematics Enrichment lessons for students in Years 5 and 6 throughout 2025.

Positive and Nurturing Environment

I remain committed to ensuring that St Bernard’s continues to be a positive and nurturing environment for all students. Like all members of our school team, I strive to know each student well and to ensure that every child feels safe, supported, and valued. I work with students to help them become ready to learn so they can achieve their best in the classroom. Over recent years, I have participated in professional development, including a study of Dr. Ross Greene's work, to enhance our behaviour management strategies and ensure we provide the right support for individual students.

Community Involvement

St Bernard’s has a Community Council made up of both staff and parents. This year, we are seeking two parents to join the Community Council. Nominations have been advertised in an email sent to all families today. I look forward to continuing to work with this committee to support our school community.

I also look forward to working with parents and carers, building a strong partnership between home and school. My door is always open, and I encourage you to reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns.

Let’s make 2025 a fantastic year together!

Jeni McCarthy