In this newsletter:

Principal’s message,
A message from Mr Andrews’,
Secondary highlights,

Principal’s Message

The end of another school year is upon us and with that comes a myriad of emotions. Anticipation of the upcoming summer break, quiet contemplation about what was achieved over the course of the year, regret that perhaps we didn’t achieve all that we wanted to, excitement at seeing another group of students graduate from St Stephen’s School and sadness as we say goodbye to staff and students who leave us at the end of this year. Each emotion reflects a part of life in a school and we give thanks for the opportunities that this year has provided. Thank you to our school community of parents, students and volunteers for your ongoing support. Our community is at the heart of St Stephen’s School and makes it the Christ-centred, student-focussed, community-based school that it is. I wish you a safe and happy Christmas, and look forward to seeing you in 2024.

Until then, take care
Donella Beare

Mr Andrews’ Almanac

Just as a ship drops its anchor to secure a safe mooring, so too should we anchor ourselves in the practice of rest during this holiday. This idea of taking a break might seem counterproductive. However, it is crucial to recognise that rest is not simply the absence of work; rather, it is a deliberate act that rejuvenates our minds, bodies, and spirits. The Christmas break offers a precious opportunity to pause, recharge, and reflect—a chance that we should embrace wholeheartedly.

Amidst the joyful chaos of festivities and reunions, it’s easy to set aside the importance of rest. Yet, it is during this time that we must consciously drop anchor, finding moments of tranquillity amidst the celebrations.

Research consistently highlights the immense benefits of rest on our overall well-being. It enhances our cognitive abilities, boosts creativity, and improves our emotional resilience. By giving ourselves permission to rest, we not only recharge our batteries but also pave the way for greater productivity and success when we return to our endeavours. It is an act of self-care.

Therefore, as we approach this holiday season, I urge each one of us to drop anchor deliberately. Embrace the gift of rest with open arms, recognising its transformative power in restoring our spirits and preparing us for the upcoming year.

May this Christmas break be a time of joy, peace, and rejuvenation for each member of our school community. I look forward to greeting all students, parents and staff as they return in the new year refreshed, recharged, and ready to embark on new challenges with renewed vigour.

Wishing you all a restful and joyous holiday season.

Bennet Andrews, Head of Campus

Secondary highlights

Phew! What a busy term!
It’s been an incredibly busy few weeks as we round out 2023. As well as exams and final assessments, our Year 11s went on Retreat, we had our final Service Learning sessions for the year, announced our new House and School Captains and our Year 9s had an awesome camp at Rotto.

As always, Presentation Evening was a fitting celebration of excellence in all its forms at St Stephen’s School. Congratulations to Shailin Mandalia for receiving the “Best All Rounder Award” for his contribution to all aspects of school life. Our Sports Awards recipients for 2023 are Alistair Cross and Serian Lockwood-Jones.

The Dux of Vocational Studies is Jacinta Randell, and the Dux of Qualitative Studies – the top overall student in the humanities subjects – is Serian Lockwood-Jones. The Dux of Quantitative Studies – the top overall student in all areas of Mathematics, Science and Technology – is Diemont Ferriera.

The final presentation of the evening was the St Stephen’s Award which goes to the student who embodies all the St Stephen’s School stands for from Years 7 -12. In 2023 the very deserving St Stephen’s Award winner is Bridie Le Cornu. Congratulations to you all, and to all students from Years 7 – 12 who were recognised for their achievements and contributions.

Our Year 7s helping out at Merriwa Salvos

Coming in September 2024

We are excited to announce that the historic Lou Morrison Kimberley Tour for Year 8s will have a new look next year, exploring more back to country opportunities for our students and reconnecting with old acquaintances.

We are currently working on a new itinerary that will hopefully include visits to Larrawa Station, a fully operational cattle station, Mimbi Caves where we will tour the amazing caves and engage with their local community, camp at Merry Pool and Parry’s Lagoon, participate in a Welcome to Country, dot painting and Aboriginal language lessons at Laarri Gallery as well as enjoy the gallery art display, and return to Frog Hollow where we will camp and participate in activities with the students of Purnululu School. Before flying home, you will be able to enjoy a visit and dinner at Lake Argyle. These are just some of the new additions to the tour. Further information to come early in Term 1 2024.

Source: Donna Wilson – Service Learning Tours Officer

2024 School fee payment options

In 2024, similar to 2023, parents/guardians will not be required to re-select a preferred payment method and frequency at the beginning of the school year. The payment method (direct debit, or credit card, or BPAY) and frequency of payment (weekly, fortnightly, monthly, two or three or four instalments or annual upfront) that you had in place in 2023 will continue automatically in 2024.

The dates to note for payments (based on frequency) next year are:

1 upfront payment due on 29 January 2024 (2% discount); or
43 weekly payments starting on Monday 29 January 2024; or
22 fortnightly payments starting on Monday 29 January 2024; or
22 fortnightly payments starting on Monday 5 February 2024; or
10 monthly payments starting on Friday 2 February 2024; or
10 monthly payments starting on Saturday 17 February 2024; or
2 instalments on 18 February 2024 and 18 July 2024; or
3 instalments on 18 February 2024, 18 May 2024 and 18 August 2024; or
4 instalments on 5 February 2024, 22 April 2024, 29 July 2024 and 14 October 2024.

(Where a due date falls on a weekend or public holiday, payment will be processed on the next business day.)

You will not be required to take any action, unless you would like to change the method of payment or frequency of payments. In which case, please contact the Accounts Receivable team on 9243 2103 or email accountsreceivable@ststephens.wa.edu.au as soon as possible.

If you wish to change your credit card, or bank account details, you are able to do this at any time throughout the year via the Parent Portal. Click on the ‘School Payments’ tab and select login under Manage stored cards and direct debits to bank accounts or use the following link https://edinfo.ststephens.wa.edu.au/ManageStoredCards.aspx

In January 2024 your annual fee invoice will be available for you to view on the Parent Portal in the ‘School Payments’ tab by logging into Statements and receipt history or use the following link https://edinfo.ststephens.wa.edu.au/fin.aspx

Source: Accounts Receivable team

Dates for your diary

Remember you can always visit the St Stephen’s School calendar for key dates
See our website for 2024 term dates

From 12.30pm Wednesday 6 December – Monday 15 January – Student Services reception closed
Wednesday 20 December 2023 – Wednesday 3 January 2024 – St Stephen’s School administration closed
From 16 January 2024 – click here to view Carramar Uniform Shop opening times
29 January 2024 – Pre-Primary – Year 6 return
30 January 2024 – Years 7 – 12 return

Closing out 2023 – have a happy holiday!