03 September 2025

From the Desk of the Acting Principal

Dear Staff and Parents/Carers,

As we approach the end of Term Three, our school continues to be blessed with opportunities to gather, celebrate, and reflect on the values that shape us as a Catholic learning community. These occasions remind us of the strength of our faith, the richness of our traditions, and the joy of sharing these moments as a school family.

Today we gathered to celebrate Father’s Day—a special occasion to pause and give thanks for the fathers, grandfathers, and father figures who enrich our lives. Our Father’s Day Breakfast was a lively and joy-filled morning, with students taking such pride in welcoming their dads and enjoying the chance to share a meal together before the school day began. Following this, our Father’s Day liturgy provided a more reflective space for prayer and thanksgiving. Through scripture, song, and student-led reflections, we honoured the gift of fatherhood and were reminded of the example of St Joseph—his humility, faithfulness, and quiet strength. These celebrations highlighted for our children the importance of gratitude, love, and respect for those who guide and protect them. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the staff and parent volunteers who made the breakfast possible and to our students for leading us so beautifully in prayer.

In addition to this celebration, our school proudly took part in The Great Book Swap in support of the Indigenous Literacy Foundation. This initiative not only encourages a love of reading but also raises awareness of the need for all children—especially those in remote First Nations communities—to have access to books in both English and their own languages. Our students were excited to bring in books to swap, choosing new stories to enjoy while knowing that their contributions support the gift of literacy for others. Events like this highlight the way literacy connects us to culture, history, and one another, while also encouraging generosity and social justice among our students.

This week also provided us with the opportunity to reflect on the importance of early intervention in learning. At our school, we believe that every child deserves the chance to thrive, and we are committed to identifying and supporting their needs from the earliest years. Our teachers engage in regular data analysis, learning conversations, and targeted teaching to ensure that no child is left behind. Early intervention may take many forms—additional literacy and numeracy support, adjustments within the classroom, or enrichment opportunities for those needing extension. These efforts are strengthened by our close partnership with families, who play such an important role in supporting children’s learning at home. When school and home work together, the positive impact on student confidence, resilience, and achievement is profound.

Looking ahead, we are delighted to welcome families who will be joining us for Prep 2026. It is always a privilege to walk alongside families as their children begin their learning journey with us. We also extend a special invitation to those with younger children: applications for Prep 2026 are now open. Submitting an application early secures your child’s place and assists us greatly with planning. We encourage families to contact the school office for further information about the enrolment process.

As we move towards the conclusion of the term, may we continue to give thanks for the many blessings within our community: for fathers and families, for the gift of literacy, and for the growth and learning of our students. May our shared efforts continue to build a community of faith, hope and love.

Warm Regards, 
Annette Poulsen
Acting Principal 

apoulsen2@gstsv.catholic.edu.au

From the Desk of the Acting Assistant Principal Pedagogy and Learning

We are nearly at the end of what has been a very busy term. As I think about all the events that have occurred, it becomes very clear as to why our students feel fatigued at this time of the term. It is really important that students get plenty of sleep and good nutrition during these very busy times so they are able to cope with the demands that end of term brings.

Most year levels are in the middle of completing their assessments for this term. It is pleasing to see the level of effort and commitment students are putting into the tasks. It is really important that students attend every day to prevent them falling behind or missing some vital explicit teaching around the assessment.

The latest research shows that attendance impacts wellbeing, development and long‑term outcomes Students who are frequently absent from school are more likely to not complete Year 12 and experience poorer long-term social, health and economic outcomes. These include:

• increased likelihood of dropping out of school (Rocque et al. 2016)
• social isolation from the school community and peers (Gottfried 2015)
• poorer mental health and social functioning (Gonzálvez et al. 2019)
• increased likelihood of involvement in the youth justice system (Epstein and Sheldon 2002; Tanner-Smith and Wilson 2013 as cited in Kearney and Graczyk 2014)
• increased likelihood of requiring social assistance (Christenson and Thurlow 2004 as cited in Kearney and Graczyk 2014).

On Friday, teachers are involved in a Reflective Practice Day, where we will be looking at our whole school curriculum plan and ensuring that it is aligned with the Australian Curriculum Version 9 for all Learning Areas. Teachers will be hard at work ensuring we are planning engaging, interesting and dynamic learning experiences for all of our students.

Wishing you all a lovely two weeks ahead and for all the fathers out there, have a beautiful Father’s Day.

Nadine Anderson
Acting Assistant Principal Pedagogy and Learning

nanderson6@gstsv.catholic.edu.au

From the Desk of the Assistant Principal Religious Education

FATHER’S DAY

We celebrate Father’s Day this Sunday, 1^st September. We think of the strength of a father, his guiding hand, his wisdom, his help. God the Father gave up his only Son, Jesus Christ, so that we might be saved through him. He provides an example of the very vocation of fatherhood. Fathers are to sacrifice their lives for their families.

They do this by:
• Being the spiritual leader and guardian of their families.
• Praying for and with their families.
• Being a courageous witness to the Gospel.
• Providing care and support for their families.
• Serving as an example of goodness and truth.
• Leading with courage and accountability.
• Laying down one’s life for another.

Today, in a special way, let us be grateful for:
• Our fathers, by birth or adoption, who love us and support us through life.
• Our Church leaders, who take on the paternal role of guiding us through life.
• And God our Father, who will always teach justly and grant us boundless mercy.

Reflection on Fathers

Fathers hold a sacred place in our lives. They are called to guide, protect, and nurture their children, reflecting the love and steadfastness of God Himself. Scripture reminds us, “As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him” (Psalm 103:13). In their words and actions, fathers have the opportunity to model the patience, strength, and faithfulness of our Heavenly Father.

Even when earthly fathers fall short, we are never without a Father, for God promises, “I will be a Father to you, and you shall be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:18). Our relationship with our earthly fathers can point us to this deeper truth—that God is always present, always loving, and always leading us as His children.

In honouring and valuing our fathers, we not only give thanks for their role in our lives but also acknowledge the greater love of the One true Father who is with us for all eternity.

A Blessing for Fathers
May God bless all fathers with wisdom, patience, and strength. May He fill their hearts with compassion and their homes with peace. May they know the joy of guiding their children in love, and may they always be reminded of the example of our Heavenly Father, whose love never fails. Amen.

Rebecca Kershaw
APRE

rkershaw@gstsv.catholic.edu.au

What's Happening In Deadly Learners

GREAT BOOK SWAP

Another amazing opportunity to fundraise for a deadly cause while strengthening our love for reading.  Thank you Mrs Emma Shaxson for driving this deadly concept and to everyone who donated so generously. We appreciate you

A MESSAGE FROM MS MURRAY

To my fellow Deadly Students, Parents and Colleagues,

I wanted to take a moment to let you all know that I’ll be moving on from my role at Good Shepherd Catholic Primary School. 

It’s never easy to say ‘goodbye’, especially to a community that’s meant so much to me.

To my amazing, proper deadly kiddies, thank you for making every day meaningful, unpredictable and full of energy with lots of laughter.

Watching you grow and learn has been such a privilege, and I’ll always be cheering you on from afar.

To our parents and families, thank you for your trust, your support, and your kindness.  It’s been an honour to be part of your children’s lives, and I’m grateful for the connections we’ve built over the years.

To my colleagues what an incredible team.  It’s been a joy working alongside such passionate, supportive and hardworking people.  I’ve learned so much from you and will carry those lessons with me wherever I go.

While I’m excited about what’s next, I’ll definitely miss the people and the spirit of this community.  Thank you all for making this chapter such a memorable one.

I leave with a heavy heart but at the same time, it’s full of gratitude, memories and joy.

Until next time, stay Deadly, stay Blessed and continue to be Strong.

Love Ms Murray & Family

BIG MOB BREKKY

Please join us for our end of Term Big Mob Brekky to be held on Tuesday the 9th September, 2025 starting from 7:45 am inside and outside the Deadly Room. It is a bitter sweet affair, as we will be farewelling our very own Ms Murray.

We wish you all a safe and deadly holiday and we look forward to seeing you all again for Term 4.

First Nations Team Members

Kylie DeDaunton, Melisia Ellis, Emma Shaxson, Marita Murray and Marissa Priestley

Sports

Jump Rope for Heart Wrap-Up

We are so proud to share that our school raised an incredible $4,500 for the Heart Foundation through Jump Rope for Heart this year! A big congratulations to the 32 students who took part, showing fantastic effort and commitment. A big thank you also goes out to the children who were brave enough to demonstrate skipping skills on assembly. We were all impressed and amazed!

A special mention goes to our Top 10 Fundraisers:

• Aston (1A) – $719.44

• Ariah (Prep B) – $381.75

• Cooper (1B) – $324.72 

• Ashton (3A) – $264.44 

• Ruby (1B) – $227.85 

• Colton (4B) – $211.00

• Parker (1A) – $211.00

• Kenzie (3) – $210.63

• Ryder (1A) – $210.17 

• Mackenzie (5A) – $197.62

Thank you to our school community for supporting this wonderful cause. Not only have we raised vital funds, but our students have also had fun keeping active and learning about heart health! 

Library

Story Dogs

A Message from our Finance Secretary

School Fees Reminder

A gentle reminder to all families that school fees are now overdue. If you haven’t yet made a payment, we kindly ask that you do so as soon as possible. We sincerely thank all families who have paid in full or are making regular payments — your ongoing support is truly appreciated.

Please take a moment to check your school fee statement for any incorrect charges, and ensure your concession card details are up to date with the school office. Please note that we are unable to backdate concession fees if your card has expired and updated details have not been provided to the school. Keeping this information current helps us apply any eligible discounts correctly and promptly.

If you are experiencing difficulties or would like to discuss your fees, please remember that my door is always open. The school is here to support you, and we are more than willing to work together to find a way forward.

As part of the Good Shepherd community, we are reminded that we are all part of one flock, walking together in faith, compassion, and shared responsibility. Thank you for journeying with us.

Danielle Jacobson
Finance Secretary

djaqcobson1@gstsv.catholic.edu.au

Breakfast Club and Running Club

The Good Shepherd Way

Term 3, Week 8

This week our Good Shepherd Way Gospel in Action value is Reconciliation where I am fair, forgiving and respectful.

Our Reconciliation prayer is below:

Term 3, Week 9

The Good Shepherd Way Gospel in Action for Week 9 will be Service where I help and respond to the needs of others.

Our Service prayer is below:

The GSCS Way

The GSCS Way is our positive behaviour support program here at Good Shepherd Catholic School.

All in our community are encouraged to:

• Give My Best
• Show Respect
• Compassion and Care
• Safe Responsible and Fair

Each week we focus on a different area of our matrix.

This week we are focusing on: At the Tuckshop. 

In Term 3, Week 9 we are focusing on: At the Office. 

Enrol for 2026

Tuckshop

Dates to Remember

School Notice Board

Teacher Contacts

The Parent Portal allows you to:

View your child’s timetable and the school calendar
View up to date attendance information for your child
Enter details of upcoming absences or explain past absences or late arrivals for your son or daughter
Access your child’s Semester reports
Make bookings for Parent Teacher Interviews
View a news feed of school announcements, alerts and updates
Provide consent for school events/excursions
Communicate by email with your child’s teachers
Update your contact details (email and mobile phone number).

The parent portal is a web-based system that can be accessed by clicking this link:

Community News

Is your child on the NDIS? Are you looking for ideas to keep them entertained these holidays? Check out the fun activities Reve360 has on offer. Bookings are essential, call 0477207947 or email aleisha@reve360.com.au