End of Year Thanks
As we approach the end of the school year, I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank you, our dedicated parents and carers for your unwavering support of the school and your children’s education. This year has concluded with a variety of wonderful celebrations, including the Year 6 Graduation, OLV Education Awards, Junior & Senior Christmas Concerts, and much more. It has been an absolute pleasure to be part of these end-of-year events.
The 2024 school year has once again been a highly successful one, with students outstanding growth and developing social skills. Our students are to be applauded for their efforts. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all staff for their exceptional dedication to their roles. A special thank you also goes to our school Leadership Team – Linda Caldinez, Tina Ida, Sandra Naismith & Georgia Hicks, for their valuable work and ongoing support throughout the year.
As was communicated yesterday in a letter from the Director of CESA. I will be taking Long Service Leave for Term 1 (back in Term 2). Sean Perry has been appointed to the position of Acting Principal for this period. Sean visited all the classrooms yesterday and I will be meeting with him again next week to do handover.
To the families who are leaving OLV this week, whether for secondary school or another school, thank you for your support during your time with us. We wish you and your child every success as you embark on the next stage of your journey.
To our Year 6 students: It has been a pleasure to watch you grow over the years at Our Lady of the Visitation School. You are a wonderful group of young people, and I wish you all the best as you move forward.
I hope everyone enjoys a special holiday season filled with time with family and friends. May it be a relaxing and rejuvenating break. I am eagerly looking forward to 2025, a year I’m confident will be both productive and exciting for our staff, students, and the entire school community.
As we move into the Christmas season we should take a moment to say thank you for the many blessings we have and there will be no better opportunity to do that than attending Mass over Christmas with the family to help celebrate the birth of Jesus our Saviour. You are invited to attend the Christmas Eve mass at Our Lady of the Visitation Church which several school staff members are coordinating. In amongst your family celebrations please make the time to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.
Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very happy, holy and safe Christmas. I hope you have an enjoyable time with your families over the next few weeks and that you all come back happy and well for the start of the 2025 school year.
May God’s shining light, be with you and your family during this festive season. Please take the opportunity to rest and recharge, spend some quality time together and we look forward to seeing you all in 2025.
Merry Christmas.
Reporting to Parents
I hope all parents and carers have had the opportunity to view their child’s school report. There is much to celebrate, and discussing your child’s successes together is a great way to support them as they return to school. If you have any trouble accessing the reports, please contact Tracy in the Office.
Staffing Update
Tobi Cibich will be on leave for Semester 1 as she and her family visit family in Europe. I wish Nicole Simpson and Evie Kanagaris much success as they move to other schools in 2025.
School Returns for 2025 on Tuesday 28 January.
The School Office will be open from Monday 20 January.
It has been a privilege to have been the APRIM at this amazing school for the past year. I am even more delighted to be staying! Thank you to all the families that have come and spoke with me, who have confided in me and spent time idol chatting about all and nothing. You have certainly made me feel welcomed. OLV has been blessed with wonderful and talented teachers as well as a team of fantastic support staff of which I have the greatest privilege of working alongside. This past year has been truly unforgettable in so many ways. Thank you to all who have made this possible.
As we celebrate the rest of Advent and approach the Christmas season, it is perhaps more important than ever to embrace the joy of Christmas and share with all the meaning and spirit of the season.
Advent, which means coming, is a time of preparation in the Catholic tradition, as we anticipate the birth of Jesus. It is also a time to share the Christmas story and help others develop their understanding of the true meaning and spirit of Christmas. It is vital that we take every opportunity to reinforce our understanding of God's love and the reason for Jesus' birth.
- Genesis 3:1-19
- Luke 1:26-38
- Luke 2:1-20
- Matthew 2:1-12
- John 3:16
​Building up the faith foundation is important! I hope this Christmas, before opening presents, you'll consider gathering around the Christmas tree and read about the true meaning of Christmas.
Lord, this Christmas blessing prayer is for all our OLV families. Please protect and guide each person in each family as they plan to be together. Bring peace and love to their celebrations. Let Mary’s openness to your wonderous ways be an inspiration encouraging OLV families to place all trust in you. Let Joseph’s courage provide hope for all our OLV families especially during times of anxiety and uncertainty. Let Jesus’ life ignite all our OLV families with a spirit of light and love. Thank you for a glorious Christmas season. Amen.
Keeping Kids Busy During the School Holidays
The school holidays are a much-awaited break for children, but as any parent knows, keeping them entertained and engaged can quickly become a challenge. Whether you're planning a staycation or just looking for activities to do at home, read on for some ideas to keep your kids busy.
Creative Arts and Crafts
Get creative with simple arts and crafts projects. Gather supplies like paper, markers, glue, and scissors, and let their imagination run wild. You can introduce them to new techniques like painting, clay modelling, or even making homemade cards for family and friends. These activities not only keep them occupied but also help improve their fine motor skills and creativity. You can find lots of ideas at the link below.
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/craft-ideas/g39762537/crafts-for-kids/
Cooking Together
The kitchen can be a great place to bond and teach your kids valuable life skills. With easy recipes you can involve your little chefs in every step. They’ll love the hands-on experience, and you can also use it as an opportunity to teach them about measurements, ingredients, and healthy eating. Plus, they get to enjoy a tasty treat at the end! Follow the link below for recipes you can share with your kids.
http://www.kidspot.com.au/kitchen/recipes/collections/cooking-with-kids
DIY Science Experiments
Spark curiosity and engage their minds with fun and simple science experiments. You don’t need a lab for these. You can find lots of fun activities at the following website:- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/parenting/g32176446/science-experiments-for-kids/
These activities are not only exciting but also educational, helping kids learn about chemistry, physics, and biology in a hands-on way.
Interactive Games and Puzzles
Board games, card games, and puzzles are great for family bonding. Choose games that are age-appropriate and invite extended family or friends over for a fun games night. If you haven’t played ‘TACO CAT GOAT CHEESE PIZZA’ yet, you can find this low-cost card game in stores like Target, Kmart or Big W.
Explore Local Attractions
Take advantage of local museums, the library or the zoo, you could even pay a visit to the botanical gardens. Many places offer special programs or holiday-themed events for kids. These experiences provide opportunities to learn about history, science, or the natural world while enjoying some quality family time.
You can find out more at Play and Go Adelaide https://playandgo.com.au/adelaide-school-holiday-ideas/
The school holidays don’t have to be filled with endless screen time or the stress of planning extravagant outings. With a little creativity, you can keep your kids busy, entertained, and learning with these fun and easy activities. From arts and crafts to outdoor adventures, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the break. Remember, the holidays are about enjoying time together and creating lasting memories.
Wishing you a wonderful festive season and a safe and happy new year.
Juile Taylor
Wellbeing
Important Dates
School resumes for 2025
Social