No 7. Term 2 Week 3, 9th May 2025

Principal's News

My beloved St Kevin's community,

This one is a little different.

It’s less an update and more a reflection—something that’s been sitting with me during a time when I’ve found myself more absent than I’d like to be.

Holding Space: A Reflection on Compassion, Community, and the Quiet Lessons We Teach

There is a quiet power in presence.

Since the beginning of this term, I have found myself more absent than I would like—from the school grounds, from morning greetings at the gate, from spontaneous corridor conversations that often carry more heart than a scheduled meeting ever could. A combination of illness and off-site professional commitments has placed limits on my visibility and with that has come a deeper sense of gratitude for those who have stepped in and stepped up.

Our school leadership, our incredible office team and countless others — your presence has been a gift. Your support has not gone unnoticed. You have not simply held the fort — you’ve held space for one another and in doing so, have reminded me how essential compassion is when we are stretched, weary, or pulled in directions we didn’t choose.

We Need Each Other

It is a simple truth, easily said and easily forgotten: we need each other.

Schools are dynamic ecosystems. There are days of calm and days of chaos and sometimes both arrive before morning tea. In that space, our capacity to hold each other with grace is what steadies the community. When we are tired or under pressure, compassion isn’t just a virtue — it’s an anchor.

This week, I’ve been reflecting on what it means to truly hold space for someone. It doesn’t mean fixing their problem or offering advice. It means being present. Listening. Withholding judgement. Allowing others to feel what they feel and be who they are — without trying to make it neater or more comfortable for ourselves.

This is not always easy, especially when we are carrying burdens of our own. But it is precisely at these moments that we need to be most mindful of how we speak to one another. Whether you are the one under strain, or the one holding steady, the way we treat each other matters.

The Children Are Watching

Our students may not always listen to what we say, but they are always watching what we do.

They watch us in the way we walk across the car park. Do we model patience and safety by using the crossing or do we dash between cars, sending the silent message that rules bend to our convenience?

They watch where we park. Do we observe the signage and leave space for others, or do we prioritise our own need to be close and quick, even if it means blocking access for another?

They watch how we speak when we're stressed. Do we respond with kindness, even when frustrated, or do we allow sharpness to spill out unchecked?

Our children are always learning—not just from our words, but from our choices, our tones, our silences. And as adults in this shared village, every one of us is a teacher of sorts.

A Mother's Day Reminder

This weekend, we celebrate Mother's Day—an opportunity to pause and honour those who nurture, guide and love with devotion, whether they are mothers by birth, by role, or by spirit.

Motherhood, in all its forms, is a daily practice of holding space. Of being interrupted and still choosing presence. Of carrying the invisible weight of others' needs. Of modelling compassion and at times, carrying others across a threshold of pain or growth without seeking recognition.

Mother's Day is the perfect occasion to remind us that the work of compassion is sacred and it belongs to us all.

Global Heartbreak and Local Responsibility

At the same time, we cannot help but be aware of the suffering unfolding in other parts of the world, including the recent events in India and Pakistan. Many in our school community have strong ties to those directly affected. Some of our children have overheard conversations or seen confronting images on the news. They may not have the words to express what they feel — but they will be feeling it nonetheless.

In such times, the Gospel calls us back to love. To remember that every person is our neighbour and every child — whether ours or another’s — is worthy of our gentleness.

If we can hold each other well here, in the ordinary rhythms of school life, then we are already participating in a greater healing.

The Invitation Before Us

Perhaps now, more than ever, we are being invited to live compassion in the small, everyday spaces. In a kind word. In an extra breath before responding. In walking to the crossing, not around it. In parking with regard for others. In checking in on a colleague. In letting someone go ahead in the queue. In the choices we make when no one is watching… except the children, who always are.

May we be a school where compassion is not just taught, but embodied.
Where holding space is not an exception, but the culture.
And where the Gospel is not just proclaimed, but practised — in presence, in patience and in love.

Thank you for holding space — for me, for each other and for the students we serve.

With gratitude,

Jason Micallef,
Principal

Leadership & Management

A Warm Welcome to Fr Antony Santhiyagu

We are delighted to welcome Fr Antony Santhiyagu MGL as the new Assistant Priest serving our parish community.

Originally from Chennai, India, Fr Antony joined the Missionaries of God’s Love in 2009 and was ordained in 2016. He has served in several communities across Australia and brings with him a spirit of joy, deep faith, and a love of working with young people.

We look forward to the guidance and presence he will bring to our school and parish, and we ask you to join us in offering him a warm St Kevin’s welcome.

May God bless Fr Antony in his ministry among us.
May his words inspire, his presence comfort,
and his heart reflect the love of Christ to all he serves.

Uniform Focus: Hats, Hair and Consistency

Over the coming weeks, we’ll be gently but consistently reinforcing key aspects of our school uniform expectations. In particular, we’ll be focusing on students wearing hats during outdoor play and ensuring long hair is tied back.

These expectations support both safety and hygiene. Hats are essential for sun protection, especially as UV levels remain high, and tying up long hair reduces the risk of head lice and allows students to engage more freely in learning and play.

At this time of year, families may choose for their children to wear either summer or winter uniform, depending on the weather. However, uniforms should not be mixed—for example, students should not wear tights with a summer dress.

A reminder too that runners and sports uniforms are only to be worn on scheduled sport or PE days.

We deeply appreciate the families who support and model pride in our school uniform. These small daily choices send powerful messages about community, responsibility, and respect.

Thank you for partnering with us.

Celebrating the Gift of Mothers

This week at St Kevin’s, we were blessed to honour the incredible women in our lives—our mothers, grandmothers, and those who love with a mother’s heart—through a series of beautiful Mother’s Day Prayer Celebrations in some of our grades.

Each gathering was a heartfelt expression of gratitude, with students leading us in prayer, reflection, and song. It was truly moving to witness so many of our special guests joining us in these sacred moments—our classrooms and shared spaces were filled with warmth, smiles, and quiet joy.

Friday morning’s Mother’s Day Morning Tea in the hall was another highlight, with an amazing turnout of mums, grandmothers, carers, and little ones. It was a wonderful chance to come together as a community and share in conversation, laughter, and a truly delicious spread.

A heartfelt thank you to our fantastic Parents & Friends team, Mrs Kydas, and Mr Butler for their care and effort in organising such a successful event. Your work behind the scenes helped create a special and memorable experience for all.

To all the women we celebrated this week—thank you for the love, strength, and guidance you give so generously. We hope you feel treasured this Mother’s Day and every day.

2026 Enrolments Now Due – Sibling Reminder

A reminder to all families that enrolments for Prep 2026 are now open. If you have a younger child due to begin school next year and they have a sibling already attending St. Kevin’s, we ask that you submit your enrolment application as soon as possible.

This helps us plan ahead and ensure a smooth transition for all incoming students.

Thank you to those who have already submitted forms—we appreciate your support. Enrolment packs are available from the office if needed.

Education in Faith

From the Community of St Kevin’s

Welcoming Pope Leo XIV

The St Kevin’s school community joins with Catholics around the world in prayer and thanksgiving as we welcome Pope Leo XIV, newly elected successor to Saint Peter and shepherd of the universal Church.

Following the passing of Pope Francis—a man whose papacy was marked by deep humility, justice, and care for the marginalised—we now look with hope to Pope Leo XIV as he steps into this sacred role. We pray that the Holy Spirit will guide him with wisdom, courage, and compassion as he leads the Church through the joys and challenges of our time.

Pope Leo XIV takes the name of a line of pontiffs known for their commitment to truth and renewal. As a school community grounded in Gospel values, we are reminded that each new papacy is not only a moment of transition, but also one of deep spiritual invitation: to listen, to pray, and to renew our own faith journeys in unity with the Church.

May God bless Pope Leo XIV and all those who support him in his ministry.
St Kevin, pray for us.

Helping Children Understand the Good Shepherd 

“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”
– John 10:27

This Sunday’s Gospel reminds us that Jesus is the Good Shepherd—one who knows us intimately, speaks to us with love and offers us the safety of his care. It speaks of trust, closeness and the unbreakable bond between Jesus, his followers, and the Father. As parents and carers, this is a beautiful opportunity to help children experience this relationship in a way they can understand and live.

Ways Families Can Bring This Gospel to Life:

1. Talk about listening for Jesus’ voice
Help your child reflect on how we listen for Jesus today.
Ask questions like:

• “What do you think Jesus' voice sounds like in your heart?”

• “Can you think of a time when you felt Jesus helping you make a good choice?”

Explain that Jesus’ voice might come through prayer, a kind thought, a gentle nudge to do what’s right, or even through the loving words of others.

2. Create space for quiet listening
In a busy world, stillness is rare. Take a few minutes as a family to sit quietly—no screens, no distractions—and invite everyone to “listen with their hearts.” You might say a short prayer and simply be still together. Then share: Did anything kind, peaceful, or good come to mind? This practice helps children recognise God’s voice within.

3. Connect with the idea of a shepherd
You might read a story or watch a short video about shepherds and their sheep. Talk about how a good shepherd cares for, protects, and knows each sheep by name—just like Jesus knows and loves each of us.

4. Practice being “good shepherds” at home
Encourage children to look after someone else, just as Jesus looks after them. It might be helping a younger sibling, comforting a friend or including someone who feels left out. These moments help children live the Gospel through action.

5. Emphasise unity and trust
The Gospel tells us that Jesus and the Father are one, and that we belong to that unity too. This is a powerful reminder that God is never far away. Talk about how being kind, forgiving, and loving brings us closer to God and to each other.

6. End the day with gratitude and reassurance
At bedtime, say a simple prayer together:

“Jesus, thank you for being my Good Shepherd. Help me to follow your voice and trust that you are always with me. Amen.”

At its heart, this Gospel is about trust, love, and closeness.
By helping children feel safe, seen, and loved, families lay the foundation for a lifelong relationship with Jesus—the Good Shepherd who never lets go.

Term 2 Mass Roster

Learning & Teaching

Important Updates to Our Mathematics Curriculum and Student Reporting

At St Kevin’s, we are always working to give your children the best learning experience. We want to let you know about some positive changes to how we teach mathematics and how your child’s learning will be reported in this subject.

A New Mathematics Curriculum

All schools in Victoria are now using a new version of the mathematics curriculum, called Mathematics Curriculum 2.0. We are already using this updated curriculum at St Kevin’s. It helps teachers make maths lessons more interesting, clear and connected to real life.

Why Is It Changing?

This new curriculum was created with the help of many teachers and education experts. It helps children:

• Understand maths more deeply

• See how different maths topics are connected

• Develop important skills, such as problem-solving and thinking clearly

What’s Different?

There are some key changes:

• New Topic Areas: Maths is now organised into six parts:
  Number, Algebra, Measurement, Space, Statistics and Probability
  (Probability starts in Year 3)

• Clearer Learning Goals: The connection between what students learn and what they should be able to do is now clearer.

• Focus on Maths Skills: Students will continue to build their skills in understanding, fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving.

• More Hands-On Learning: There will be more maths investigations and modelling—fun, practical ways to explore maths.

Changes to School Reports

In the past, your child’s report showed maths achievement in three parts:

• Number and Algebra

• Measurement and Geometry

• Statistics and Probability

Now, there will be one overall score for mathematics. This score reflects your child’s progress in the whole subject, based on the new curriculum.

To give you extra information, we will still include some details about the maths topics your child learnt during the semester.

Note: Because the new curriculum is different, the first report will show your child’s achievement at that moment. It will not compare to past reports. From the second report onwards, you will see progress over time.

What You Need to Do

There is nothing you need to change at home.
Our teachers are ready and confident to teach the new curriculum.

We will continue to keep you updated, and you are always welcome to speak with your child’s teacher if you have any questions.

Learning About Rules and Laws in 4IC

Last term, the students in 4IC explored the difference between rules and laws, and why they are important in keeping our communities safe, respectful, and orderly. As part of their learning, students completed a "So What?" task—a learning reflection designed to help them apply what they’ve discovered in a meaningful or creative way. It asks students: “So what does this learning mean for me or the world around me?”

Last term 4IC learnt about rules and laws. We learnt that rules and laws are very different. Laws were for large communities or countries and rules could be used anywhere or at any time.  Both rules and laws are there to keep our communities safe and keep things in order. At the end of our unit, our  ‘So What?’ task was to choose a rule from the St Kevin’s positive behavior matrix and promote it in a different way. We could make a slideshow, a comic, an advertisement, a song, a poster or any other way we wanted. Most of us chose to make slideshow presentations. Here are some examples. By Hudson 

Prep Family Prayer Bags

In Prep, learning isn’t just about letters and numbers—it’s also about nurturing hearts, growing faith, and building connections between home and school. One beautiful example of this is the Family Prayer Bag initiative.

Each Prep class has their own special Prayer Bag filled with sacred items and simple prayer prompts. On a rotating basis, children bring the bag home to set up a prayer space with their families. It’s a gentle invitation to pause, pray, and be present together.

From lighting a candle to reading a short prayer or sharing their own words, children are encouraged to take the lead—and families of all faiths are welcomed to adapt the space in ways that are meaningful to them. Families can also contribute to a class Prayer Journal with photos or reflections from their time with the bag.

This initiative is just one of the many ways our youngest learners are invited to engage with their spirituality in hands-on, heartfelt ways.

Student Wellbeing

Supporting Every Child to Thrive

This coming Monday 12 May is a school closure day to allow all St Kevin’s staff to take part in an important professional development day. On this day, we begin the first of four training sessions in the Berry Street Education Model (BSEM)—a well-researched and highly respected approach to supporting the wellbeing and learning of all students.

What is the Berry Street Education Model?

The Berry Street Education Model is designed to help schools support students’ emotional wellbeing, engagement, and learning success—especially for those who may have experienced stress, anxiety, or other challenges.

The training provides staff with practical strategies to:

• Build strong, positive relationships with students

• Help students stay calm, focused, and ready to learn

• Understand and respond to behaviour with care and consistency

• Create classroom routines that support both safety and growth

• Foster resilience, self-regulation, and confidence in every learner

Why is This Important?

Children learn best when they feel safe, supported and connected. By investing in this professional learning, we are ensuring that every staff member—from classroom teachers to leadership and support staff—has a shared understanding of how to best care for our students while continuing to hold high expectations for learning.

This model aligns beautifully with our Catholic values and our belief that every child is capable of growth, belonging, and success.

We look forward to sharing more with you as our learning unfolds across the year. Thank you for supporting our ongoing efforts to grow as a staff so we can continue to walk alongside your children with compassion, skill, and care.

Community

🐣 Easter Raffle – Congratulations to Our 28 Lucky Winners!

We are thrilled to announce the success of our Easter Raffle, with 28 beautifully crafted hampers going home to our lucky winners! Congratulations to each of you — we hope you enjoyed every sweet treat.

A huge thank you to all the St Kevin’s families who donated Easter chocolates to help fill the hampers. Your generosity made each prize truly special.

We also extend our warmest thanks to our dedicated Parents & Friends (P&F) Committee for organising the raffle tickets, collecting donations, and assembling the wonderful hampers.

We are extremely excited to share that this initiative raised an amazing $1,752.00 for our school playgrounds— an incredible result made possible by our supportive community.

💃🕺 School Disco – A Night to Remember!

Our school was alive with music and excitement on Friday, 2nd May, as students arrived in their “dressed to dance” outfits, ready for the much-loved School Disco! The night was full of laughter, glowing accessories, and unforgettable dance moves. The joy on the children’s faces said it all — they had an absolute blast!

A huge thank you to Mr Micallef and all of our incredible staff who gave up their time to supervise and support the event. We are also deeply grateful to our wonderful P&F parent volunteers who purchased and handed out drinks, popcorn, and glowsticks, and assisted throughout the night.

A very special thanks to Mrs Kydas, as well as Michelle and Trish in the office, for their behind-the-scenes support, which helped make the event such a success.

We haven’t yet finalised the fundraising total from the disco, but we’ll be sure to let you know as soon as we have the final figure.

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Family Week Movie Night

You're Invited to St Kevin's Family Week Movie Night!

Join us for a fun and relaxing evening together at our Family Week Movie Night on Wednesday, 14th May from 6:30pm to 8:00pm.

This special event is all about spending quality time together as a family, so bring along your rugs, cushions or pillows, and some yummy snacks to enjoy during our surprise movie!

Entry is free, and the whole family is welcome! We do ask that families sit and stay together throughout the movie, and that parents supervise their children during the night.

The event will be held in the St Kevin's School Hall.

It’s going to be a cozy, exciting evening you won’t want to miss — we can’t wait to see you there!

St John’s - Year 7 places available for 2026

St John’s Regional College has limited places remaining for incoming Year 7 students in 2026. With under 700 students, we offer a close-knit community that’s smaller than many schools in the area, yet large enough to provide diverse pathways and opportunities for every child. Follow the link to visit our website to book a tour or submit an enrolment application today.

Camp Australia Update