Navigating Friendships in the Middle Years
As children move into the middle years of primary school, their friendships often become more complex. I have witnessed this as both a classroom teacher and parent. They begin to seek deeper connections, experience more emotional ups and downs, and face new challenges in navigating social dynamics. Over the past term, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with a small group of students to explore these changes and develop their friendship skills.
Using the URSTRONG framework, we’ve talked about the difference between healthy and unhealthy friendships, practised how to use Friendship Facts, and learned how to Talk it Out when things go wrong. Most importantly, we’ve focused on empowering students to recognise their feelings, express themselves respectfully, and develop the confidence to manage tricky friendship moments.
It has been incredibly rewarding to watch this group grow in self-awareness and resilience. They are learning that all friendships have ups and downs, and that with the right tools, they can face these challenges with courage and kindness.
Visit from Director of Religious Education
On Tuesday we were delighted to welcome Mark Powell, Director of Religious Education from Catholic Education Western Australia to St Denis. During his visit, Mark engaged in open and meaningful conversations with students, staff, the leadership team, our Parish Priest, Father Anthony and our School Advisory Council Chair, Chris Gooch.
He was particularly pleased to hear about some of the exciting initiatives currently underway at our school, including the updates to our mission, vision, and faction names.
He was impressed with the way some of our Year 6 students lead him on the tours and the beautiful way our students greeted him. It was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the vibrant and faith-filled community we have here at St Denis.
New Fence Along Wanneroo Road – Supporting Child Safety
In response to some incidents earlier in the year, we are pleased to share that a new permanent colorbond fence has been installed along Wanneroo Road over the past few weekends.
This new fence provides a solid screen between the school and the road, helping to enhance privacy and safety for our students. Importantly, it prevents any external interaction through the fence, further supporting our ongoing commitment to child safety.
We thank our community for their support as we continue to make improvements to ensure our school remains a safe and secure environment for all. Thank you to the School Advisory Council for their support in the details of this project.
Long Service Leave
As we come to the end of the semester, I feel truly grateful for the wonderful students, staff, and families I’ve had the joy of getting to know. It has been such a pleasure to watch our students grow, learn and flourish over the past six months. I’ve really enjoyed reading about their progress in the mid-year reports, which will be coming home next week.
Every day I’m inspired by our amazing staff and the way they go above and beyond to support our students’ growth in all areas. Thank you to everyone for the important work you do—not just for our students and their families but for the daily care and support you give. I’d also love to give a special mention to our Assistant Principals, Eugene and Casey, for their wonderful organisation, creativity, attention to detail, and genuine care for us all. I thank God every day for the blessing of their support.
This Friday, I’ll be taking some long service leave until the end of term and heading off on a short holiday with my husband. While I’m away, Eugene Potito will be stepping in as Principal to support the school.
Wishing everyone a restful and happy break—I can’t wait to reconnect with you all in Term 3!
Warm Regards,
Sarah Potts
PRINCIPAL
