ENJOYING QUALITY FAMILY CONVERSATIONS

How often do you get to sit down over dinner as a family and have conversations that are both fun and meaningful?

In the busyness of day-to-day life, mealtimes and car journeys are some of the best opportunities to connect as a family - to share stories, ask questions, and simply talk.

These moments are a perfect time to switch off technology (yes, even the TV!) and enjoy some good old-fashioned conversation.

Recently, I came across a wonderfully simple tool called Talking Points for Kids—a set of conversation starter cards designed to help spark engaging and thoughtful discussions between parents and children.

Each card offers a prompt that encourages kids to reflect, imagine, share, or laugh. These talking points help transform the everyday—from car rides filled with backseat bickering to screen-dominated dinners—into meaningful moments and lasting memories.

Starting this week, I’ll include 3 conversation starters in each newsletter to help you kick off quality conversations with your family.

The goal? To help build a routine—whether it’s nightly dinners, drives to school, or even just one dedicated evening a week for “Family Conversation Night” (no screens allowed!).

You’ll be amazed at the magic that unfolds once it becomes a family habit.

• If you were invisible for a day, what do you think you would do?
• What is your favourite part about yourself? What is your least favourite?
• If you could make 3 wishes, what would they be? (you can’t wish for more wishes?)

CARLINE PICK UP AND DROP OFF EXPECTATIONS

Can I please remind all parents thet the speed limit at drop off and pick up is 10 kph. In the interest of child safety could I ask all parents to observe this safe speed when dropping and picking students up at Admin carline and Drouin Rec Reserve car line.

Also a reminder to parents that there is no right hand turn cutting in front of cars making a left hand turn into school admin drop off and pick up. The expectation id that parents drive down to the roundabout and come back up the hill to join the queue making a left hand turn into school. This eliminates traffic issues and keeps everyone safe.

DROPPING STUDENTS AT SCHOOL BEFORE 8.30AM

A reminder to all parents that the school drop off time and gate opening is at 8.30am. We have been getting a growing number of students dropped off at school between 8.00 and 8.30 am and children are unsupervised. It can also be extremely cold and wet with minimal shelter. If you need to drop your children off prior to 8.30am we recommend that you contact Camp Australia and access before school care.

THE IMPORTANCE OF CONSISTENT SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

At St Ita’s, we deeply value the importance of regular school attendance for all our students. Our school day begins promptly at 8:50am, and it is essential that students arrive on time, ready to engage with their teachers’ daily outlines and instructions. This sets a positive tone for the day and ensures students are well-positioned to make the most of their learning.

In the lead-up to parent-teacher interviews and the drafting of our mid-year school reports, our teaching staff have been reflecting on student attendance and its impact on both academic progress and personal development. These conversations have highlighted what we already know to be true:

Education is the cornerstone of success, and consistent attendance is a key part of that journey.

When students attend school regularly, they’re not only giving themselves the best chance to succeed academically — they’re also building habits and relationships that support their overall growth.

Here are seven key benefits of regular school attendance:

Improved Academic Performance

Students who attend school regularly are more likely to keep up with lessons, complete assignments on time, and perform better in assessments.

Stronger Social Connections

Daily attendance supports the development of friendships and social skills, helping students feel more connected to their peers and school community.

Better Emotional Wellbeing

Consistency and routine contribute to a sense of stability and belonging, which positively influences students’ emotional health.

Development of Good Habits

Punctuality, responsibility, and commitment are habits reinforced through regular attendance — skills that benefit students far beyond the classroom.

Increased Engagement in Learning

Students who are present are more likely to participate in class discussions, group work, and hands-on activities, making learning more meaningful.

Higher Confidence Levels

Staying up-to-date with learning boosts students’ confidence and reduces anxiety about falling behind.

Long-Term Success

Studies show that students with strong attendance patterns are more likely to finish school and pursue further education or employment opportunities successfully.

By working together — school, students, and families — we can help ensure every child at St Ita’s is set up for success both now and into the future. Thank you for your continued support in making attendance a priority.