82 Fairfield Road,
Elizabeth Grove SA 5112

Newsletter, Week 4, Term 4, 2026

Dear Families

Welcome to Week 4! November traditionally marks the beginning of a very busy few weeks as we charge towards the end of the school year. There are a range of events happening (almost weekly) within our school community. We warmly extend an invite to you all to come along and share these celebrations with us. Please see, “Important Dates, Term 4, 2026” below.

Celebrating World Teachers’ Day

Last week, we celebrated World Teachers’ Day and recognised the dedication, passion, and hard work of our incredible teachers and support staff. The day provided an opportunity to acknowledge the important role our educators play in supporting students’ learning, wellbeing, and growth. Staff were celebrated for their ongoing commitment to creating engaging learning experiences and fostering positive relationships with students. World Teachers’ Day was a chance to reflect on the difference our teachers make every day through their care, expertise, and encouragement. Their dedication helps create a positive and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive. We extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to all of our teachers and support staff for the valuable contribution they make to our school each day. Our students created a lovely video showing their appreciation of their teachers, you can view it here.

Children’s University Graduation

On Tuesday, 3 November, a group of our students proudly graduated from the Children’s University Program at a special ceremony held at the University of Adelaide City Campus. The students worked diligently throughout the year to achieve this wonderful milestone, participating in a range of learning experiences and activities beyond the classroom. Their commitment, enthusiasm, and dedication to learning were recognised during the graduation ceremony, where they were presented with certificates celebrating their achievements. Dressed in graduation gowns and caps, the students enjoyed the memorable occasion alongside their families and teachers. It was a proud moment as they crossed the stage to receive their awards and celebrate the hard work they had invested in their learning journey.

We congratulate all of our Children’s University graduates on this outstanding achievement and look forward to seeing them continue to embrace new learning opportunities in the future. We are incredibly proud of their efforts and success. We thank Ms Kathy Keough for supporting these students. Check out some lovely photos below.

2027 and beyond

Thank you to all families who have returned their 2027 intention and updated details forms. If you haven’t yet submitted yours, we kindly ask that you do so as soon as possible. Our staff are currently reviewing class placements and preparing for smooth, positive transitions into 2027. We invest significant time and care into creating balanced class structures, taking many factors into consideration.

Reception Enrolments for 2027

Do you have a child ready to start school in 2027? Reception enrolments are still open, with some places available for both Term 1 and Term 3, 2027. Please contact our Front Office for enrolment information.

Children already enrolled to commence Reception in Term 1, 2027 will begin their transition visits in Week 6 this term, providing an opportunity to become familiar with school and begin getting to know their educators and peers. We look forward to welcoming our newest students and families to our school community!

As we head into a busy few weeks we thank you for your patience and kindness. It is the time of year where students can get tired and need our support to stay focussed. We welcome conversation about your child’s well being and how we can best support them as we round out 2026 and start preparing for our transition into the new school year.

Shaping our future together,
Belinda Bennett

Year 6 Graduation Events

Join Us | Kids & Dads Group

Join Us | Christmas Carols

APRIM News!

CONNECTING WITH THE SUNDAY GOSPEL READING: (Matthew 5:1–12a (The Beatitudes)

In this week’s Gospel, Jesus shares the Beatitudes, teaching us what it means to live as people of God. Rather than focusing on success, wealth or power, Jesus blesses those who are humble, kind, merciful, peacemakers and those who persevere through difficulties. These teachings remind us that God’s kingdom is built on love, compassion and justice. The Beatitudes challenge us to look beyond ourselves and consider how we can bring hope, peace and kindness to others in our families, school and wider community. As we reflect on Jesus’ words, we are invited to think about how we can live these values each day and be signs of God’s love in the world.

Wonderings
  • I wonder which Beatitude I find the easiest to live out in my daily life
  • I wonder who has shown me mercy, kindness or peace when I needed it most
  • I wonder how our family can be peacemakers in our home, school and community
Family Challenge for the Week

As a family, you might like to choose one Beatitude to focus on this week. Talk about what it means and find one simple way to put it into action together, such as showing kindness to a neighbour, forgiving someone, helping a person in need, or praying for peace in our world. Take time at the end of the week to share how living this Beatitude made a difference to your family and to others.

All SAINTS DAY AND ALL SOULS DAY

Each year on 1 November, the Church celebrates All Saints’ Day, a special feast honouring the saints who have lived lives of faith, courage and service to God. The following day, All Souls’ Day, is a time to remember and pray for all those who have died, especially our loved ones. Together, these important days remind us that we are part of a faith-filled community that extends across generations. At school, students have been reflecting on the examples set by the saints and taking time to remember those who hold a special place in their hearts, giving thanks for the love, guidance and memories they leave behind.

REMEMBRANCE DAY

As a school community, we will mark Remembrance Day, next Wednesday November 11, through prayer and reflection, taking time to remember the men and women who have served and sacrificed in times of war and conflict. Through our prayers, we give thanks for their courage and dedication, while also praying for peace in our world today. Remembrance Day provides an important opportunity for students to reflect on the values of respect, gratitude and compassion, and to honour the legacy of those who worked to secure the freedoms we enjoy. Together, we will pause to remember and pray for a future shaped by peace, justice and hope.

JOINING US FOR PRAYER, LITURGY AND THE CELEBRATION OF MASS

Prayer, liturgy and the celebration of Mass are at the heart of life in a Catholic school, nurturing the spiritual growth of our students and strengthening our community in faith. Through daily prayer and shared liturgical experiences, students are invited to develop a personal relationship with God, reflect on Gospel values, and grow in compassion, gratitude and service. The celebration of Mass brings us together as one body in Christ, reminding us of the presence of Jesus in our lives and guiding us to live out our faith in meaningful ways.

This term our liturgical celebrations occur:
  • November 19th, 9:15am | Whole School Advent ‘Waiting’ Liturgy – Year 4 Storrie
  • November 27th, 9:15am | Whole School Advent ‘Preparation’ Liturgy – Reception Drewett & Reception Haylock & Dickson
  • December 3rd, 9:15am | Whole School Nativity Liturgy – Year 5/6 Oosthuizen
  • December 4th, 12pm | Whole School End of Year Mass

END OF YEAR SCHOOL MASS

As we approach the end of another wonderful school year, we warmly invite all families to join us for our Whole School Thanksgiving Mass, December 4 at 12noon in Yarning Space. This special celebration is an opportunity for our school community to come together in prayer and gratitude, giving thanks for the many blessings, achievements and experiences we have shared throughout the year. We look forward to celebrating with students, families and staff as we reflect on our journey together and mark the conclusion of a successful year at St Mary Magdalene’s School. We hope you can join us for this meaningful occasion.

LIVING MERCY AT SMM

This term we focus on the Mercy Value of Compassion. We are encouraging students to recognise the needs of others and respond with kindness, empathy and understanding. Compassion is more than simply feeling concern for someone; it is taking action to support, encourage and uplift those around us. In our classrooms, students live out compassion by listening respectfully, showing patience, including others, and offering support to classmates who may be experiencing challenges. In the schoolyard, compassion is seen when students invite others to join in play, notice when someone is feeling lonely, offer a helping hand, or use kind and encouraging words. By modelling and practising compassion each day, we continue to build a school community where everyone feels valued, safe, included and loved.

COLOUR FUN RUN

A reminder that Colour Fun Run prize orders need to be completed by Friday, 6 November. Thank you for your amazing support of this year’s fundraiser. Together, we raised $6,770! Your generosity and enthusiasm helped make the Colour Fun Run a wonderful success.

SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM 2027

The Sacraments of Baptism, Reconciliation, Confirmation and Eucharist form the Sacraments of Christian Initiation. If your child is 8 years of age (or older) and you would like them to be involved in the program for 2027 please contact Amiee Tullio or Edna Dumbrell at the Elizabeth Catholic Parish.

ELIZABETH CATHOLIC PARISH | Please click on the link below to access the parish bulletin to find out about events happening within the Elizabeth Catholic Parish. Bulletin – Elizabeth Catholic Parish

RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS (RCIA)

Elizabeth Catholic Parish is pleased to announce that the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) programme will commence on 11 October 2026.

The programme is for:

  • Adults who are interested in becoming Catholic; and
  • Baptised Catholics aged 14 and above who have not yet received the Sacraments of First Holy Communion and/or Confirmation.

If you, a family member, a staff member, or someone you know may be interested in participating, please contact the Parish Office at reception@elizabethcatholicparish.com.au.

 

2026 Children's University

Congratulations to every student who earned their spot on the stage at Adelaide University’s Bonython Hall.

The Graduation was a celebration of the student’s hard work, commitment, curiosity, and enthusiasm for learning. Throughout the Children’s University journey, students dedicated time to exploring new interests, developing new skills, and embracing opportunities to learn beyond the classroom. They should all be extremely proud of what they have accomplished.

The student’s willingness to ask questions, try new experiences, and challenge themselves demonstrates the qualities of lifelong learners. Whether they completed a few hours or many, every hour represents a choice to grow, discover, and expand their understanding of the world around them.

We are sure that our graduates will cherish this milestone and remember that learning does not stop here. Let this graduation be the beginning of many more adventures in learning, and a continued exploration of their passions.

Never be afraid to step outside your comfort zone – you never know where your learning journey may take you! Keep learning, keep exploring, and keep believing in yourselves. The future is bright!

 

OSHC News!

Staffing News

In OSHC this year we have been extremely lucky to have Miss Ally as part of our team. She has been a wonderful addition to our OSHC space and has made such a positive impact. It is with both sadness and joy that we say goodbye to Miss Ally who has been successful in completing her teaching degree and secured a position as a teacher for the remainder of 2026. We are sad to see her go but wish her all the best in her beginning teaching career. We also last Term welcomed Ms Liz to our team. Ms Liz brings a fresh new perspective, knowledges and experience to our OSHC space and we are so very excited to have her with us. Our OSHC team has certainly grown and along with myself you may see a number of co-educators and Teachers in our OSHC space at various times for the remainder of 2026 and moving into 2027.

Important Message

You may be aware that in previous years the last two days of Term 4 are generally Pupil Free Days. For 2026 this structure has been changed. The decision has been made due to staffing restraints. We apologise for any confusion or inconvenience.

  • Thursday the 10th December will be a Pupil Free Day held at St Thomas More School.
  • Friday 11th December will be a school closure. OSHC is not available for this day.

To make a booking for the Pupil Free Day please contact Jenn on the OSHC mobile on 0437 609 630 via SMS.

Planning for 2027

As the year ends you may begin to plan your OSHC needs for 2027. As you may be aware we have had significant growth in our OSHC space and spaces are limited. From 6pm Wednesday the 9th December OSHC bookings for 2027 will be opened to families. From this time families will be able to go and request bookings for 2027. Requests sent after 6:00pm 11th December may not be actioned prior to 2027. To ensure your bookings are secured please request your bookings promptly. It is the responsibility of the family to request any OSHC needs in a timely manner.

Important Dates Term 4, 2026

Monday 16th November | Kids & Dads (& significant men in their lives)
Join us for a Sausage Sizzle & Games Night 6.00 pm to 7.15pm
RSVP by 11th November – 0437 609 976
Wednesday 18th November | New Reception Transition Visits Commence
Session 1 – 9.15 am to 10.45 am
Thursday 19th November | Whole School Advent ‘Waiting” Liturgy
Hosted by Year 4 Storrie – Join us at 9.15 am
Wednesday 25th November | New Reception Transition Visit
Session 2 – 9.15 am to 10.45 am
Thursday 26th November | Spirit of Christmas End of Year Carols Celebration
Join us for our whole school celebration at 9.00am
Friday 27th November | Whole School Advent ‘Preparation’ Liturgy
Hosted by Reception Drewett/Haylock/Dickson – Join us at 9.15 am
Wednesday 2nd December | New Reception Transition Visit
Session 3 (final visit) – 9.15 to 11.45 am
Wednesday 2nd December | Year 6 Graduation Dinner
5.30pm at the Midway Tavern
Thursday 3rd December | Whole School Nativity Liturgy
Hosted by Year 5/6 Oosthuizen – 9.15 am
Friday 4th December | End of Year Mass
Join us at 12pm
Monday 7th December | End of Year Assembly and Farewells
Join us at 9.15 am – This is also our final day for our Year 6 students
Tuesday 8th December | Meet the Teacher (R-5)
Our Reception to Year 5 students will meet their teachers and classmates for 2027
Tuesday 8th December | Year 6 Graduation Ceremony
Families of our Year 6 Graduates can arrive for 6pm
Wednesday 9th December | Last Day All Students (R-5)
All students will finish the school day at normal time – 3 pm
Thursday 10th December | Pupil Free Day
OSHC is available @ STM – bookings can be made through Jenn
Friday 11th December | School Closure Day NO school / NO OSHC

Community HUB & Events!