Principal Talk with Mrs Lowe
Thank You for Attending Parent-Teacher Conferences
Thank you to all the families who attended our Parent-Teacher Conferences last week. These meetings are an important part of staying connected and supporting your child’s learning, and we appreciate you making the time to be involved.
We’d also like to thank our staff for their hard work in preparing for and running the conferences. Their commitment to each student’s progress and well-being is greatly valued.
We look forward to continuing to work together throughout the rest of the year.
Staffing Matters
Farewell to Rachel Powell
At the end of this week, we will be farewelling Rachel Powell, who has accepted a new role at Canberra Grammar School as Associate Director of Academic Education – Literacy. Rachel has been a valued member of the St Matthew’s team for the past 15 years, serving as Curriculum Coordinator and Year 5 teacher. We thank her for her dedication and contribution to our school and wish her all the best in her new role.
Rachel’s position has been advertised and has attracted strong interest from experienced applicants. Interviews will take place shortly, and we expect to announce the successful candidate at the start of Term 3. The new teacher will meet with Rachel for a transition meeting and is expected to begin mid-term.
In the meantime, Mrs Dian Sari, Mrs Julie Jenkins, and Miss Sally Judd will be teaching 5 B. The teachers have completed a thorough handover with Rachel and will work closely with Miss Murdock. We are confident the transition will be smooth for students and families.
Thank you for your support during this time of change.
Farewell to Debbie Deighton and Welcome to Anna Marzano
At the end of this term, we will farewell Debbie Deighton, who is retiring after two and a half years as our Music teacher at St Matthew’s.
Debbie has led class music lessons and the school choir, helping students build strong music skills and confidence. She has prepared performances for events such as Grandparents Day, Christmas celebrations, and our school music concert. We thank Debbie for her contribution to our school and wish her all the best in retirement.
We’re also pleased to welcome Anna Marzano, who will be joining us as our new Music teacher from the start of Term 3. Anna has taught music in several Catholic schools across Canberra, most recently at our sister school, St Vincent’s. We look forward to having her join our team.
Welcome to Our New Classroom Support Assistant
We’re pleased to welcome a new Classroom Support Assistant, Margie Sciacca, to the St Matthew’s team, starting in a part-time capacity from the beginning of next term.
Our new team member brings valuable experience and great enthusiasm for supporting students and teachers in the classroom. We look forward to the positive contribution she will make to our school community.
Medications Reminder
Please ensure that all student medication is delivered by an adult to the front office for administration. For the safety and well-being of all students, no medication is to be sent in school bags or self-administered by students under any circumstances.
If your child requires medication during school hours, parents/carers must complete the attached Medication Authorisation Record. This form gives consent for school staff to administer prescribed medication in line with our Medical Welfare of Students Policy.
Please note the following important requirements:
- Medication must be in its original packaging with a dispensing label that includes the child’s name.
- Expired medication will not be administered.
- A separate form must be completed for each medication.
- Wherever possible, medication should be administered outside school hours and first given by the parent/carer with a 24-hour observation period before returning to school.
- Long-term medication must follow the child’s Medical Management Plan.
Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring the safe administration of medication at school. If you have any questions, please contact the front office.
Future of Education Equity Fund
I am pleased to share important information from the ACT Government regarding increased support for families through the Future of Education Equity Fund.
As part of the 2025–26 ACT Budget, the ACT Government has announced a $600,000 boost to the Equity Fund. This will enable an additional 1,000 eligible ACT students to receive financial assistance in the 2025 school year.
The Equity Fund is available to families of students enrolled in preschool to Year 12 in any ACT school—government or non-government—who are experiencing financial disadvantage. Support provided through the Fund assists with education-related expenses and aims to ensure that all children have an equal opportunity to fully participate in their learning.
Funding amounts for 2025 are as follows:
- $400 for preschool students
- $500 for primary school students
- $750 for high school and college students
Further information, including application details, is available on the ACT Education Directorate website.
Winter Uniform Reminder
As we settle into the cooler months, a reminder that all students should now be wearing the full winter school uniform.
School Winter Uniform (not sports) (Monday, Wednesday, Friday):
- Tracksuit pants are not part of the winter uniform
- Students should wear dress pants or the tunic
- Joggers are not permitted with the regular uniform — these are for sports days only
Outerwear & Accessories:
- All students should bring their fleece jacket and wear long sleeves
- If purchasing a coat, please ensure it is navy blue
- Gloves, scarves, and beanies may be navy blue or maroon
Uniform plays an important role in creating a sense of belonging and pride in our school. Thank you for your support in maintaining our high standards.
2026 Dates
Thank You and Wishing You a Safe Winter Break
As we come to the end of Term 2, I’d like to thank all our staff, students, and families for their hard work throughout the term.
It’s been a busy and productive few months, and I’m proud of everything we’ve achieved together.
I wish everyone a safe, restful, and enjoyable winter break. I look forward to welcoming students back to school on Tuesday, 22 July, for the start of Term 3.