What a fabulous first term we have had in Barbreck! 

As the term ends, I could not help but reflect on the wonderful events and experiences our students, Barbreck families and our staff have been able to enjoy. From welcoming new students and watching them settle into life at St Catherine’s and enjoying all that Barbreck offers, to watching all our girls making new friends and stepping up to new challenges in their new Year levels. It was also great to connect with parents at our PFA events and parent functions to catch up and share stories. 

Last week I had the pleasure of attending the Year 5 Sovereign Hill Study Tour. Our Year 5 students had a fantastic time dressing up in traditional clothing from the Gold Rush era. The girls stepped back in time and attended school in the 1850s in the Goldfields of Ballarat. The girls’ high level of engagement in all activities was obvious. Their lines of questioning and conclusions were very impressive for students of their age. It was also pleasing to receive compliments on the girls’ behaviour and maturity from members of the Sovereign Hill staff. 

I would like to that Miss Kirrilly Wootton, Ms Ilse Johansen, and Miss Olivia Cody for running the Study Tour and providing care and support to all students whilst they were away from their families. The Study Tour was a great success and I look forward to attending the Year 6 Canberra Study Tour in Term 3. 

Term 2 Co-curricular Program Changes 

Please note the following information regarding alterations to the Barbreck Co-curricular Program in Term 2. 

After School Chinese Development Language Classes 

In Term 2 the classes will be taken at the following times 

• Years 5 to 6 Chinese Club Friday 3.30pm to 4.30pm (new time) 
• Years 3 to 4 Chinese Club Tuesday 3.30pm to 4.30pm (as usual)  

Junior Engineers 

Junior Engineers offer both after-school and school holiday coding and STEM programs and activities. In Term 2 they are offering Lego Mindstorm, Roblox, and STEM Explorers.  

For information regarding the after-school program please click HERE 

For information regarding their Easter Holiday Program please click HERE 

School Holiday Wishes 

Ms Karen McArdle and I wish everyone a safe and restful break. We look forward to hearing stories of fun and adventure from students upon their return to Barbreck in Term 2 on Wednesday 26 April. 

Term 2 Staffing 

Next term we welcome back Mr Tom Crebbin, Barbreck Coordinator of Sport and Ms Georgina Stride (Year 3) from their Long Service Leave. 

We wish our Health and Physical Education teacher, Mrs Jenny De Nardis well for her Long Service Leave in Term 2. Miss Olivia Cody will be continuing her fantastic work in Barbreck, moving from Physical Education and Sport to Health (Prep to Year 4) and Physical Education (ELC to Year 1) for the term.