Opening of the School Year

It has been a great start to the school year for our three parish schools.  The children have settled down extremely well, even with the recent lockdown disruptions.

2021 started with more possibilities to allow for bigger gatherings.  Recently, we were able to celebrate the Opening of the Parish and School Year.  Teachers, school captains and families from Our Holy Redeemer Primary School, Our Lady of Good Counsel Primary School and Our Lady’s Primary School took part in these celebrations.

Our Holy Redeemer and Our Lady’s Primary Schools gathered together to celebrate the opening; it was a rare and new occasion that two school communities gathered in one place.  Our Lady of Good Counsel Primary School joined the parish community at Deepdene.  The barbecue and drinks that followed were well accepted and appreciated by the schools and parish communities.

Celebrations with the schools did not stop with the Opening of the Parish Year.  Last week, we got together in the Church to celebrate the Opening of the School Year for Our Holy Redeemer Primary School.  The whole school was able to gather together after a long time.  Sharing the Eucharist and the Word of God were the main parts of the gathering.  However, that was not all; we did have a chance to say a few words of welcome to our new students in Prep and Grade One.  

This week, we went to visit the whole school community of Our Lady’s Primary School in Wattle Park.  We did have a chance to officially greet the school communities: parents, teachers and students.  Celebrating the liturgy together is an important part of the Opening of the School Year.  The outdoor Liturgy at Our Lady of Perpetual Succour allowed for greater participation of parents and family members.   

Fr Brendan and I were most grateful to have the chance to meet the school staff and students on these occasions.  During the 2020 lockdown we were limited to Zoom sessions and small gatherings.

OLGC has commenced the planned information sessions for all parents, in order to share in the journey they are undertaking to support student learning and wellbeing this year.  A parent and teacher conference opportunity will also be offered this term.

There was so much energy and enthusiasm recognised on the faces of each student at each school. There were also some wondering and enquiring faces from new and old students as we begin our year together. 

The year of 2021 will be full of unexpected things which can happen; however, it has not stopped staff  and students from starting another year with hope and faith in God.

Fr Trac Nguyen