2024 - Term 4, Week 9
Dear Families,
As we conclude another extraordinary year at Emmaus Catholic School, it’s a perfect time to reflect on some of the recent highlights that have brought us together as a community.
Last week’s Emmaus Christmas Carols was a heartwarming celebration of talent, joy, and the festive spirit. Our students shone on stage, and it was wonderful to see so many families join us for this special evening. Alongside the Carols, we’ve enjoyed a host of memorable events recently, including the Graduation Dinner, Sports Presentations, the Emmaus Choir’s performances at the Christmas Pageant and a local retirement village, and the much-anticipated Christmas excursions. Each of these moments has showcased the unique spirit, talent, and camaraderie that make Emmaus such a special place.
Tuesday night’s End of Year Mass and Graduation Ceremony was another standout occasion. It was a truly fitting way to celebrate the year’s end and honour our graduating students. We were privileged to welcome Amanda Rishworth MP (Kingston) and Nat Cook MP (Hurtle Vale), a long-time supporter of Emmaus, to present the Discipleship, Persistence, and Mary MacKillop Awards. Fr. Christopher’s homily was especially inspiring, encouraging our graduates to "soar like eagles" as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.
These events don’t happen without dedicated leadership and effort behind the scenes. A heartfelt thank you goes to Cindy Buckley, our extraordinary Music Coordinator, along with Cez Konarski and the Christmas Carols Committee, for organizing such a joyful community night. Special thanks also to Terence and Ian for their help with the stage provided by Woodcroft Primary School.
Our Year 6 team - Alicia Sandercock, Kristy McKay, Sarah Clancy, and Justine Raponi - deserve immense gratitude for their dedication to creating memorable end-of-year experiences for our graduating students. Justine, in particular, organised our Mass with meticulous care, ensuring it was a meaningful and seamless event. The entire staff came together to make this a night to remember, and I am truly thankful for their collaborative spirit and hard work.
This week, we held class visits for 2025, and it was heartwarming to see the excitement and anticipation on the children’s faces. These moments are a testament to the joy and promise of new beginnings.
We are also thrilled to welcome 17 new students across various year levels next year, and 41 new reception students. I know our wonderful community will warmly embrace these new families and help them feel at home. To our parents, thank you for supporting your children through these transitions with calmness and positivity—it makes such a difference in helping them navigate change with confidence.
A huge thank you to everyone who has donated to the St. Vincent de Paul hampers. Your generosity is truly appreciated and will bring much-needed support to families in our wider community. Special thanks to Tanya Linsell and Stacey Gould, who will be transporting these hampers to Noarlunga, ready for distribution.
Another reminder for families of the expectation that students arrive at school in the correct school uniform each day. Beginning in 2025, students not in correct uniform will be gently reminded by staff. If the uniform infringement continues, students may be assigned a community service activity to encourage them to abide by the school policies. School holidays are the perfect opportunity to ensure you have the correct uniform items for your children.
Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited about the new opportunities and initiatives that will further enrich our school community. Thank you for your ongoing support and for being such an integral part of the vibrant Emmaus family.
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and peaceful Christmas season.
Warm regards,
Suzanne Budd
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