In the media we are bombarded with stories about schools failing and continuing issues with student outcomes and behaviour. Decision makers and those that work in schools seem to engage in endless debate about what works, and yet the support where it matters at the classroom level, is difficult to come by. This is exacerbated by the problem of teacher shortages across Australia, and the pressure this is now putting on all sectors. Recently when Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Prue Car stated that over 10,000 classes daily in the public sector were not being covered by a teacher, a collective sigh was heard from every educator across the country. I expect in 2024 we will continue to hear more negative stories about the state of education.

In 2021 a study showed 8 out of 10 teachers believed education news is negative (The Educator, August 2021) and a study conducted by Monash University in 2022 called for solutions that improve the ways that teachers are respected, appreciated, and valued, including calls for the media to contribute to a more positive portrayal of the teaching profession (Longmuir et al, 2022.) In another research study where over 65 000 media articles were examined, analyzing how teachers were characterized in the print media and concluded that “… ‘teacher bashing’ is the norm when it comes to stories about teachers.” (Mockler USYD July 2022)

In recent weeks whilst preparing for our return to school in 2024, I couldn’t shake a couple of thoughts as I watched our extremely professional staff go about their business in whatever role they play. At St Joseph’s, students have access to highly professional teachers, and we see each day staff who care about every student and our school. It is wonderful to watch the special relationships our students have with their teachers and broader staff, and how these continue to develop. 

We all remember those educators who impacted us at school, and I always walk with pride when I hear staff speak with an enthusiasm and confidence that is underpinned by an unshakable belief that every student can and will learn. Our staff take on so many roles during the school day ensuring our students are safe and have the best possible opportunities to learn and grow. They demonstrate excellence and I am humbled by the work they do.

So, as we return to school this year, I want to give a shout out to all teachers and encourage our community to speak positively about the profession, challenging negative stories when you see or hear them. Teachers give their working lives to improve the lives of others and they are good at what they do. The future of our society depends on young people choosing this most valuable career. Don’t forget to let our teachers know what their efforts mean for you, your child and your family.

Welcome back to all the staff and thanks for a job well done!

Troy Baker
Principal

Welcome back to our Joey's Community! We have been eagerly awaiting your return.

As we kick off 2024, we are thrilled to share some exciting plans for Term 1. Be sure to stay updated by regularly checking the Compass Calendar and come be a part of the journey ahead!

Tips for Starting Primary 

The below information is to provide you with some tips to help ensure families a successful transition for your child into primary school. 

All parents can now access a comprehensive online resource created by RealTalk Australia that provides access to a collection of resources to support parents, caregivers and teachers in exploring a diverse range of topics including:

• Puberty and personal development and identity
• Online Safety
• Friendships
• Consent and respectful relationships
• Impacts of Pornography.

Road Safety is a Back to School Essential

As children return to school, it is important to keep road safety in mind. Take time to talk with your children about travelling to and from school safely. 

Here are some safety tips:

1. Be alert and aware by travelling distraction-free. Ask children to take off their headphones when walking.

2. Keep safe getting in and out of the car. Always use the door closest to the kerb.

3. Keep safe getting on and off the bus. 

• Wait at the bus stop and stand at least one step back from the edge of the road.
• Always meet your child at the bus stop. Never meet them on the opposite side of the road and call them across.  
• Wait until the bus has gone, before you cross the road.

4. Message to share with your children in Kindergarten to Year 2

Hold a grown-up’s hand when:

• you cross the road;
• you’re on the footpath; and
• you’re in a car park.

5. Message to share with children in Years 3 to 6

• Use a safe place to cross the road. The fastest way, may not be the safest way.
• Stop! Look! Listen! Think! Every time you cross the road and keep checking until you safely across.

STOP!  one step back from the kerb.

LOOK!  continuously both ways.

LISTEN!  for the sounds of approaching traffic.

THINK!  whether it is safe to cross and keep checking until safely across.

6. Wear a helmet. Children must wear a helmet when riding a bike in any public place – it’s the law.  Foot scooter, skateboard and rollerblade riders should wear helmets and protective gear such as knee and elbow pads. 

If your child travels independently to school, please talk to them about the route they take to ensure they are making safe decisions. 

Be a positive role model when you are a pedestrian, passenger and driver. Children learn from what they see, as well as what we say. 

Never sacrifice safety for convenience.

Source: https://roadsafety.transport.nsw.gov.au/

Traffic Management

Please familiarise yourselves with the traffic management procedures for our school site.

Please note these dates can change from time to time due to unforeseen circumstances and we will endeavour to advise you of any changes at the earliest possible opportunity. Our school Google calendar can be accessed via this link for additional advanced dates -

For your convenience 2023 school term dates are listed below. They are also located on our website. Click on the words “TERM DATES” on the home page.