Dear parents,

Today we signed an agreement between Catholic Education, representing Mother Teresa School, and the University of Canberra. The agreement, signed by Mr Ross Fox (Director Catholic Education) and Mr Geoff Crisp (Deputy Vice-Chancellor of UC) formalized the program currently running at MTS where both fourth year and Masters students, studying occupational therapy, work with identified students at our school under the supervision of their clinical supervisor.  This program has been operating since the second half of term one and the agreement is in place for three years.

The clinical supervisor has meet with a number of families to discuss the assistance that they are providing to their child. Several families have also attended information sessions at UC.

This is the first time UC has undertaken placements in a school setting and both they, and MTS, are looking at how we can expand to other areas of need.

It was the vision and passion of Mrs Karen Garrity, our diverse learning coordinator, who began working with UC in 2019 that put this program in place.  COVID meant that it did not begin until this year.  I congratulate Karen on this achievement.

Any parent trying to access any type of therapist knows there is a long waiting list for those that work with children.  While there is a monetary cost to the school, we believe the benefits for the student is well worth the time and investment and will lead to improved educational outcomes.

A reminder to parents that next Tuesday is the next meeting of the Community Council.  It begins at 6 pm in the staff room. All parents are welcome.

ELC

As parents of children in the ELC are aware, Mrs Sarah McCulloch is finishing up as director.  The position has been advertised and while we await the outcome of the recruitment process, Ms Janene Sadler has generously offered to be the nominated supervisor.  She will be supported in her role by a member of the ELC team from Catholic Education and myself.

Math’s Problem

Well done to Brody Press who was the winner of last week’s problem. I have been told Brody now has over 20 handballs at home. This week’s problem is below. I would love to see a lot more entries.

God Bless

Peter Hughes