Catholic Education Week 2024

Director’s Welcome Message – click on the video above. Watch to see St Joseph’s student Ocean O’neil feature in the video.

Catholic Education Week 2024 editorial
May 2024
Visit a Catholic school and see the difference.

Catholic schools across Gippsland and Melbourne’s outer south-east will open their doors to
the community to celebrate Catholic Education Week 2024 from 17 May to 24 May.
This is a chance for everyone to witness the vibrant faith and learning environments in their
local Catholic Schools with Open Days, activities and events planned.
Mr Paul Velten, Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Sale, said schools were looking
forward to celebrating through activities, events, and open days.
This year’s theme, A New Dialogue of Love, Hope and Joy is inspired by the Scripture passage
‘See, I am Making All Things New’, Revelation 21:5.
This theme symbolises an optimistic and hope-filled perspective on the world and a renewed
approach to fostering positive change.
The theme emphasises the belief that transformation and renewal are possible in all aspects of
life through individual choices. By following the life and teachings of Jesus, and embracing
principles of compassion, peace, goodness, and justice, individuals can contribute to a more
hopeful and joyful world, sowing seeds of positivity and hope.
Mr Velten said through this theme, Catholic schools intend to inspire young people to engage
with the Christian message and to showcase their efforts in making a positive impact on society.
Schools will be sharing the many activities and projects they are involved in which aim to
contribute to making the world a better place.
“The goal is for everyone involved – staff, students, families, and parishes – to embrace this theme
and for schools to continue serving as supportive environments where children can connect with
their faith and realise their full potential.”
The Diocese of Sale covers 38 Catholic primary schools and seven Catholic secondary schools
spanning a geographic area from Melbourne’s outer south-east suburbs from Narre Warren
and Cranbourne to Phillip Island in the south, and right throughout Gippsland to Orbost in the
east. A 39th Catholic primary school is currently under construction in the new Five Farms estate
in the growth suburb of Clyde North with a planned opening in 2025.

Jump Rope for Heart is about to begin!
We will start skipping next week and we need everyone’s help to reach our school fundraising $457 and skipping 20 hours goal.
Visit jumprope.org.au/parents to register your child.

https://youtu.be/2nlEjC9Gd90

A SPECIAL REPORT: Wellbeing Barometer Survey: 2024

The Wellbeing Barometer survey has proven to be an invaluable tool for schools, providing insights into the state of youth mental health and wellbeing. Whilst last year’s results focussed the spotlight on areas of concern, there were also many highlights that demonstrated the resilience and adaptability of students and emphasised the necessity of prevention strategies.

Participating in this year’s survey, will assist in identifying areas of strength and concern, as well as pinpointing opportunities for early intervention. Previously gathered information has helped support families as they navigate difficult conversations that enable understanding and foster connections to build relationships.

This survey is part of an ongoing, longitudinal study, with the results being instrumental in tailoring support for students and their families. Participation is strongly encouraged, as it provides a comprehensive view of students’ experiences, challenges, and achievements over the past year. Its aim is to capture a comprehensive picture of young people’s lives, allowing for a tailored approach to enhance mental and emotional wellbeing.

We encourage you to take a few moments to complete a survey for each of your children. This will help us determine the nature and extent of your concerns and how best to support families in the months ahead. Responses remain anonymous and will only be reported on an aggregated basis. You are asked to base your responses on observations made in the last 12 months.

Acquiring the skills for future independence, taking healthy risks, and giving young people the opportunity to emancipate from parents, are key developmental tasks that are essential if we are to stave off the impact of mental illness in the future.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to your special report:

https://stjorbost.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-wellbeing-barometer-2024-au