2025 Term 3 Week 9 Newsletter

Principal's Message

Dear Families,

Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting with several families during enrolment interviews for 2026. I always begin these conversations with the same question: “Why have you chosen Sacred Heart?”

A few weeks ago, one family gave a response that caught me off guard—in the best way possible. They said, “We live in the area, we’ve heard so much about the community feel of the school, we’re Catholic and want a Catholic education… and besides, I typed into ChatGPT ‘Best Catholic Primary School in Canberra’ and your school came up as number 1!”

Now, while I’d caution anyone against relying solely on Artificial Intelligence for major life decisions, I must admit—that’s a great endorsement! AI might be drawing on measurable data like NAPLAN results, but it certainly doesn’t walk our hallways, hear the laughter in our playgrounds (or staff in the staffroom), feel the support of our parents or warmth of our community.

What makes Sacred Heart truly special can’t be captured by algorithms. It’s the dedicated staff, the great kids, the supportive families, and the strong culture of learning and care that define us. We have high expectations, clear boundaries, and a shared commitment to nurturing hearts, minds, and spirits.

So, whether it’s through word of mouth, lived experience, or even a chatbot recommendation—thank you for being part of what makes Sacred Heart such a great place to learn and grow.

I also wanted to take a moment to reflect on the great atmosphere around the school at present. Walking through classrooms and playgrounds this week, there’s a noticeable sense of calm, focus, and joy. Week 9 can often feel a little unsettled in schools where our kids (and staff) are tired, but our students are engaged, happy, and there’s a real buzz in the air. It’s a credit to our staff, students, and families for fostering such a positive learning environment. The holidays are within reach!

Colour Run – Thursday 25 September

We’re excited for our annual Colour Run, happening next Thursday afternoon from 2:15–3:15pm on the school oval.

This is our major fundraiser for the year, with proceeds going towards refreshing garden spaces around the school and updating sports equipment for our students.

All students must bring a change of clothes, and we encourage them to seek sponsorship from family and friends. This morning, we announced that the highest fundraiser will be crowned “Principal for a Day” in early Term 4! They’ll get to work in my office, make tough decisions (like extra lunchtime!), and enjoy a unique leadership experience.

Parents are warmly invited to join us next Thursday afternoon—it promises to be a fun and colourful celebration to end the term!

Staffing News

We are proud to share the news that Mrs Laura Stumbles has been appointed as a teacher at St Edmund’s College, starting in 2026.

Laura has been a valued and loved member of the Sacred Heart community for the past 14 years, beginning as a university practicum student in 2012 before joining the teaching staff in 2013. She is an outstanding Catholic educator—hard-working, dedicated, compassionate, and deeply committed to her students and colleagues.

While we will miss Laura greatly, this is a great opportunity for her to grow professionally, and we wish her every success in this next chapter.

End of Term Reminder

A reminder that school finishes for students on Thursday, 25 September. Friday, 26 September is a pupil-free day, with staff participating in professional learning. Looking ahead, Term 4 begins on Tuesday, 14 October.

Monday, 13 October is also a pupil-free day, so students return on the Tuesday.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership in helping our children grow in faith, learning, and love.

 In faith and partnership,

David Austin

Principal

Reminders

Sean Choolburra - performance

Yesterday the children of Sacred Heart Primary School enjoyed a performance from Sean Choolburra, a First Nation's Australian didgeridoo player, dancer, singer, actor, songwriter and storyteller. Sean entertained and engaged the children through artefacts, music, dance and painting. We even discovered Sean voiced the character 'Maynard' from Bluey! We were very excited to have Sean at our school and the children learned so much about our rich history.

My New Gallery

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ACT Athletics

Yesterday, Sophia, Matilda and Tilly represented Sacred Heart and South Weston at the ACT athletics carnival. All the girls were so proud of their results, coming in the top 10 for all of their events. 
A special mention to Tilly who came 2^nd in the high jump, what an amazing result.
Congratulations to all three girls, Sacred Heart is proud of you. 

Colour Run

We would like to say thank you to our sponsors, Betty's Burgers,  The Walking Clinic, TimeZone, Care Taxis and A Bite to Eat (Chifley).

Tennis

Kindergarten

Kindergarten have been engaged in lots of wonderful learning experiences over the past few weeks! Gymnastics, Maths Games, Science experiments and learning about Bible stories through Godly Play!

My New Gallery

National Arboretum

Year 3/4 went to the National Arboretum and they could not have asked for a better day. Sunshine, good company and stunning views all around. 
Did you know the Arboretum is home to 96 small forests from around the world? What a special place to explore and learn together.

My New Gallery

Canberra Capitals Visit

Our Year 4 students were lucky enough to have the Canberra Capitals visit. The Caps ran plenty of fun drills and games and the children loved every minute. 
Go Caps! Thanks for sharing your time, energy and skills with us.

My New Gallery

The Y Canberra

Mary Help of Christians, South Woden

MHoC Website

Please see in this week’s bulletin details for:

• The U-Turn Youth Team Visit on 17 September,

• We are after a Children’s Liturgy Volunteer and

• This weekend is Safeguarding Sunday

Birthdays

Congratulations to the following students celebrating their birthday this week.

Sidney K, Jethro K, Leon K, Isla P, James T, Alden S, Jay R, Jude C.

Awards

 Awards will be presented during the Friday morning assembly at 8:55am.

(Week 10 awards will be presented on Thursday morning)

Community Notices

South.Point Rooftop Putt Putt– FREE ENTRY

This Floriade season, South.Point’s rooftop transforms into Spring Putt Putt — a custom-built, open-air mini golf course you won’t find anywhere else in Canberra. Designed exclusively for Floriade About Town, it’s a colourful, floral, spring-themed activity where every putt is part competition, part photo opportunity.

From blooming backdrops to playful obstacles, each hole brings its own spring-inspired twist. Whether you’re a first-timer or a mini golf pro, the focus is on fun, friendly rivalry, and soaking in the season.

The full course takes around 20 minutes to complete, making it an easy and exciting add-on to your day. You’ll find it on the Rooftop Car Park at South.Point, with travellator and stair access from the main shopping levels and signage to guide you straight to the action. Use the travellators behind EB Games for access.

Spring Putt Putt is made for everyone—families, friends, dates, and even that one mate who insists on keeping score—and when you’ve finished your round, the fun doesn’t have to end! Explore over 180 retailers, savour great dining along Anketell Street, or catch live sport and entertainment at The Point.

Make the trip south, putt among the petals, and enjoy a Floriade experience you won’t forget.

When: Saturday 27 September to Sunday 12 October 2025
Time: 10am to 2pm
Where: Rooftop Car Park 
Cost: FREE!

We have a Rooftop Community Market each 2^nd Sunday of the month as part of South.Point’s community engagement project and we could facilitate fundraising activities for your school.