Dear Parents and Carers,

Welcome to the new school year, especially to the many new families who have commenced school at Nazareth Catholic Primary School for the first time. As many of you would be aware, I was seconded to the role of Acting Principal late in 2023. A role that I am very honoured to fulfill. Nazareth is a beautiful school community and I am very appreciative of the welcome I have received from students, staff and parents. 

The children have quickly settled into their new classrooms and the school-wide procedures and expectations. Thank you for ensuring your children are well-presented each day in the correct school uniform and are equipped and prepared for learning. I want to express my gratitude for the trust you place in us to nurture and educate your children. At Nazareth we are committed to creating a positive and enriching environment where every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

One of our annual improvement goals for 2024 is that ‘Students, staff, parents / carers have a shared understanding and a lived experience of the vision, mission and values of the school.’ To help develop a shared understanding during each newsletter I will share some historical information around the formation of our school. This week’s focus is the naming of the school newsletter as ‘Crossroads.’ 

In the Year 2000, during the first year of operation, the name ‘Crossroads’ was selected for the school newsletter. The name reflects the symbol of the crossroad on the school crest. This symbol came about because Nazareth (Jesus’ place of childhood) was the crossroad of the ancient world. The Australian Nazareth is symbolised by the Southern Cross, a crossroad where families, staff, parish and community come together to nurture and educate the children within our school. 

The second goal for 2024 is that ‘Students will demonstrate continuous growth in English and Mathematics informed by ongoing quality assessment.’  Professional learning for teachers will be an integral component in achieving this goal. Throughout the year teachers will engage in professional learning targeted to improving the learning outcomes in English and Mathematics.

Starting school comes with many challenges, a new environment with new faces, new routines and expectations. As all our students settle into life at school, you are encouraged to continue to support this transition by making time for them to share their experiences, talking positively about school and keeping teachers informed about any changes to their normal routine.

Working together we will continue to maintain a positive school environment, that allows optimum spiritual, academic, social and emotional growth for your child. If you have any questions or concerns, please be sure to contact your child’s teacher, school office or myself.

Looking forward to an amazing year!

Kind regards, 

Mr Matt Downes 
(Acting Principal)