Dear Parents and Caregivers

It is with a deep sense of gratitude and purpose that I step into the role of Acting Principal at St Thomas Aquinas. I am honoured to serve in this capacity and to continue the mission of Catholic education that lies at the heart of our school.

I would like to take a moment to acknowledge and thank Mr Anthony McElhone for his leadership and contribution to our school over the past 2.5 years. Anthony has brought energy, vision, and care to his role as Principal, and I wish him every blessing as he takes up his new leadership position at Our Lady Queen of Peace Primary School. 

As I begin this new chapter, I do so with great respect for the work that has come before me and great hope for what lies ahead. We are blessed with a dedicated staff, wonderful students, and a community of families who are deeply invested in our shared mission. My leadership will focus on continuing to build a school environment where every child feels known, valued, and supported to thrive spiritually, academically, and socially.

During the recent holiday break, NAIDOC Week was celebrated across the country. The NAIDOC journey began as a call for justice and recognition and was sparked by courageous Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities who envisioned a future grounded in equality, truth, and self-determination. Over the past 50 years, NAIDOC has grown into a powerful national movement that honours culture, amplifies Indigenous voices, and celebrates resilience, strength, and community.

This year’s theme, “Keep the Fire Burning: The Next Generation – Strength, Vision & Legacy,” invites us to honour the past while looking ahead with hope and pride. It reminds us that today’s young First Nations people are the custodians of culture and the leaders of tomorrow. Guided by the wisdom of Elders and inspired by the strength of community, the next generation is rising—with courage, clarity, and connection to Country and story.

As a Catholic school, we walk together in solidarity, listening and learning from the legacy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. In our prayer, learning, and everyday actions, we commit to shaping a future grounded in unity, respect, and the ongoing work of reconciliation.

Together, we honour the fire that has burned for generations, and will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who lead us forward.

Yours in partnership

Acting Principal

Notifying Parents/Carers in Emergencies

In the case of an emergency and/or critical incident parents/carers will be notified via Compass alert and/or text message. Please ensure your contact details (i.e., mobile number and email address) are up to date. If any details have changed please contact the office at your earliest convenience.

Staff Development Days 

Following are the dates for the remaining staff development days for this year. Please note the student’s final day for the 2025 academic year is 17 December.

13 October (first day of Term 4)

18 December

19 December

2025 School Calendar

The key date of events and celebrations for 2025 can be viewed in our online school calendar. The calendar can be viewed on our school website.

Upcoming Events 

• 4 August Religious Literacy Assessment (Year 4)
  
  
• 6 August Cricket Country Blitz

• 8 August Western Region Athletics Trials

• 14 August Year 6 Leadership Day

• 15 August Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

• • 15 August 2:30pm Whole School Assembly

• 20 August Book Week Parade/Fun Day

• 21 August Year 5 Leadership Day

• 22 August Happy Birthday Milo - turns 1 today

• 28 August Western Region Soccer Gala Day (Stages 2 & 3)

• 29 August 2:30pm Whole School Assembly

• 5 September 7:45 am Father’s Day BBQ & Prayer

• 8 September Year 3 Excursion

• 11 September Year 4 Excursion

• 12 September 2:30pm Whole School Assembly

• 15 September Kindergarten Excursion

• 16 September Year 5 Excursion

• 17 September Years 1 & 2 Excursion

• 19 September P&F Fundraiser (Colour Run) at Chevalier College ??
  • Basketball Gala Day @ Moss Vale

• 26 September 1:30-2:15pm Lunch on the Lawn

• • 26 September 2:30pm Whole School Assembly

• • 26 September Last day of Term 3

Sports News

Celebrating Success! 

The Athletics Carnival at Tudor House was a wonderful day, showcasing excellent sportsmanship by our students.  Thank you to all staff, parents and carers who assisted to make the carnival a great success.  Photos can be found on our Facebook page.

The Westerm Region Athletics Carnival will be held next Friday 8 August 2025 at Campbelltown Athletics Track.  The field events are still being finalised and when they are complete, an Event will be published with the names of the students who have been successful and will complete in the carnival.

The CEDoW Basketball Gala Day will be held on Friday 19 September at Moss Vale Basketball Stadium. Further details TBA.

The CEDoW Soccer Gala Day will be held on Friday 26 August at Picton Sports Ground.  Further details TBA.

Renee McFayden

Religious Education Co-ordinator

Policies

Please find below a link to our Policies, Procedures & Forms that can also be found on the website:

https://stabdow.catholic.edu.au/parents/policies-procedures-forms/Attendance

Attendance

If your child is away for any reason, can you please enter the absence in Compass.  Otherwise you will receive an automatic notification at 12 pm that day to justify the absence.  Thank you.

Contacting staff

If you need to email a staff member, could you please use the email address:  info@stabdow.catholic.edu.au and your email will be directed to the relevant staff member for you.

• If you would like to make an appointment with a staff member (including the Principal and Assistant Principal) could you please contact the office to organise a convenient time.  Thank you.