Dear SCA families,

The advertising blitz of the Christmas shopping binge is well and truly drowning out the Advent message during this time. In fact, no season of the year is more at odds with the prevailing culture in Australia than Advent.

This can become such a busy time of the year, with end-of-year events at work and school. Time and energy go into arranging Christmas meals and summer holidays. There is a spirit of indulgence in the air, with anticipation of lazy summer days.

By contrast, Advent has been set aside for us to slow down, to focus on, and to prepare for the coming of Jesus. Our minds and hearts need space to look forward, not only to celebrating the birth of baby Jesus, but allowing Jesus to live, fully, in our lives.

May we find a few minutes each day to step above the frenzy to spend time sharing our deepest thoughts with our God who truly wants to be part of our lives.

Community Council

Following our last meeting of the year, I wish to publicly thank the Community Council for the work they have done for our school, and their support of all that we do. It has been another busy year at SCA, and our Council, chaired by Crystal Tunningley, has been actively involved in so many ways. Thank you to each of the members: Crystal Tunningley, Dave Hockley, Heather Cochrane, Emma Phelan, Nicki Muir, Melinda Reeson, Sally Kasparek, Trudie Hargrave, Val Ciuffetelli, Kristy Everding, Luke Brown and Ben Sweeney.

Semester Two Reports

Reports will come to me this weekend for reading and approval. They will be available via Compass on Friday 10^th December.

School Fees Overdue

A reminder that school fees are now overdue. For those who are not on a regular direct debit with us I ask that you settle your account with us by Friday so that we are able to meet our budgetary commitments.

Leaving Early

If you are heading off on holidays before the end of the school year, please let the Front Office and classroom teacher know.

Library

Mrs Katherine Austin has begun the process of stocktaking books in the library. Please ensure your children have returned all books to the library as soon as possible.

Endings to Beginnings

Students finish this school year on Friday 17^th December, and start in 2022 on Monday 31^st January. (Staff officially resume on Tuesday 25^th January.)

Vinnies Christmas Appeal

Please do all you can to support this appeal. It is a real and meaningful way to help fellow Canberrans who are doing it tough this Christmas. Please be generous.

January Holidays

Our fantastic Outside of School Hours (OSHC) team run an engaging and fun holiday program for SCA children during January. Please contact Pam (OSHC Director)  for further details. The booking form is available on the school website also.

Parent / Teacher Interviews and Reports

Interviews will be via MS Teams on Wednesday 8^th and Thursday 9^th December. Bookings will be available via Compass and will close at midnight on Sunday 5^th December.

It was once said…

“Some of the best memories are made in thongs – bring on summer.” –

a very wise person

Blessings to you and your family. Be the light.

Matt Egan-Richards

Principal