Dear Parents and Carers, 

The year is certainly flying by, and it's hard to believe we're already in the final term. 

October is Mission Month, a time dedicated to reflecting on and supporting the vital work of missionaries around the world. Yesterday marked Mission Sunday, and as Pope Leo XIV reminds us, it’s a special opportunity to pray for those who dedicate their lives to helping others in need. 

Throughout October, our students will engage in learning, prayer, advocacy, and fundraising to support children and communities facing hardship across the globe. One of the highlights will be Crazy Sock Day on Wednesday, 29th October—a fun and colourful way to raise funds and awareness for those less fortunate. 

Let’s continue to inspire compassion and action in our school community.

Young Scriptwriters

Last Thursday evening, I had the pleasure of attending First Draft at the Beryl Flett Studio. Bella Doan and Ashlea Linehan, who have been part of the Young Scriptwriters program this year, showcased their creative talents through original three-minute scripts.

Ashlea’s piece, titled Fantasy Land and the Dream Catcher, and Bella’s script, The Planet Intrusion, were brought to life on stage with the help of Year 10 drama students from St Clare’s. It was especially heartwarming to see two of our former students, Jake and Zac, involved in the performances.

In addition to their individual projects, the students in the Young Scriptwriters program have also co-written the script for our upcoming Aspire in the Manning performance this November. Their creativity and collaboration are truly inspiring!

Scottish Festival

On Saturday, 27th September, we proudly joined the local community at the Wingham Bonnie Scottish Festival. It was a fantastic day filled with fun and connection, as we painted countless happy faces under the shade of our brand-new gazebo.

A heartfelt thank you to Sally Gaudron, Jodie, Ben, Alice Raison and Krista Abbott for generously volunteering their time to help Mrs Lapi-an and I run our stall. Your support made the day even more special.

It was also lovely to reconnect with two of our former students, Evie and Emma, who were giving back to the community through their volunteer work with St John Ambulance.

JAFA

I hope you had the chance to attend JAFA at the end of last term—what a fantastic celebration of student creativity and performance! Our students truly shone on stage, supported every step of the way by their dedicated teachers. It’s always a joy to see their hard work and talent come to life in such a vibrant way.

A huge thank you to all the staff who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make the evening such a success. Your efforts do not go unnoticed.

DVD and photo orders are now available, and the images are absolutely stunning. A special thanks to Callam Howard from Lens Head Photography, who did a brilliant job capturing the energy and excitement of our rehearsal day.

Anxiety is a natural and expected part of growing up. In fact, it plays an important role in helping young people prepare for challenges, stay alert to potential dangers and adapt to new situations. It can motivate them to study for a test, practise before a performance, or tread carefully in unfamiliar settings. However, for many children and adolescents today, anxiety can shift from being a helpful response to becoming intense, persistent and disruptive.

The world young people are growing up in is fast-paced and often demanding. Academic pressures, social expectations, family changes and the constant presence of digital media can all contribute to heightened stress and worry.

When anxiety is left unrecognised or unsupported, it can begin to affect a young person's wellbeing, learning, friendships and self-confidence. That's why it's so important for adult carers to understand how anxiety may present in children. Everyone experiences anxiety differently, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution.

This edition of SchoolTV raises awareness and provides families with practical strategies to help young people manage anxiety in healthy, constructive ways.

Please join me in prayer, acknowledging that each of us has a role to play in sharing God's love and the message of the Gospel throughout the world.

O God, you send us out as messengers of joy, peace, and justice. 
May your Spirit guide our every step. 
As missionaries of hope, may we lift each other up, care for creation, and bring your love to the world. 
 

Amen 

God Bless