St John the Baptist Ferntree Gully Newsletter

During the week I had a call from a caring grandparent in our community. He shared with me a statement that his grandson had made that he felt like this lockdown would never end. It brings to mind the importance of us being truly present for our children. Their worries and concerns are very real for them and it is important that we listen and respond to them with reassurance. We are currently bombarded with news from around the world which causes all of us at times to despair. Our children have young and impressionable minds. They need to be protected from the constant flow of negative press. We need to offer them light, hope and reassurance that this will come to an end at some point. It is important to help them experience positive moments in the safety of their homes and to have conversations of joy and positivity. Remember to turn off the radio and television and limit the amount of negative press our young children are being exposed to. Enjoy time together outside. Make happy memories as a family by spending quality time together and living in the moment. I have shared with you today a wonderful podcast that I thought you may enjoy. It is a reflection on parenting and highlights the invaluable work of all those incredible people who teach our children. To our parents and teachers I salute you all and give thanks for your guidance and love of our most precious children. 

Click this link to access the Podcast

Everyone over the age of 12 years of age (with the exception of our enrolled students) is required to wear a face mask both inside and outside as per Victorian Government COVID restrictions. 

Please note that due to the increase in the number of children being infected with the virus, there has been a recommendation from our Chief Medical Officer that all school age children wear a mask.  It is not mandated that primary school age children wear a mask, however we will support children to wear a mask if you believe this is something they can manage.

If you are entering any school buildings it is a Victorian Government mandate that you check in via our QR code. We are limiting access to buildings for our families until we have further easing of restrictions. We are also asking families not to gather before or after school. Whilst this is hard as we enjoy being together hopefully our caution will keep everyone in our community safe and hopefully able to gather once more in the not too distant future. Thankyou for supporting us to implement our COVID safe plan by observing these protocols.