Dear Parents and Carers, 

Each day, I’m reminded of the strength and spirit of our wonderful community here at St Bernard’s. The generosity of our families and the unwavering commitment of our teaching staff are evident in everything we do. Over the past few weeks, we’ve welcomed several special visitors to our school, and all have spoken very highly of the positive learning environment, student growth, and high-quality teaching they’ve observed in our classrooms.

As a school, we are committed to continually improving our teaching practices, guided by the principles of the Science of Learning. Our staff engage openly with feedback and work alongside trusted professional colleagues to ensure we are delivering the best possible learning experiences for our students.

Spelling Mastery    

At our school, we are committed to using evidence-based programs that support long-term student success. One of the key tools we use to build strong literacy skills is Spelling Mastery – a research-proven program designed to help students become confident, accurate spellers.

What is Spelling Mastery?
Spelling Mastery is a highly structured, Direct Instruction program that teaches students reliable spelling strategies. Rather than relying on rote memorisation, it helps students understand how spelling works through consistent, focused instruction. Lessons are short, targeted, and carefully sequenced to ensure maximum learning and retention.

How Does It Work?
Spelling Mastery blends three key approaches to give students a well-rounded understanding of spelling:

• Phonemic Approach – Teaches the connection between sounds and letters, helping students spell regular, predictable words.
• Morphemic Approach – Focuses on word parts like prefixes, suffixes, and root words, helping students learn how words are built and how spelling rules apply.
• Whole-Word Approach – Targets common irregular words that don’t follow standard rules and need to be learned through repeated exposure.

Why It’s Effective

• Students are explicitly taught spelling strategies and rules, promoting understanding rather than simple memorisation.
• Lessons are scripted, clear, and systematic, making them efficient and easy to follow.
• The program supports long-term retention and builds skills students will use for life.

We are tracking the progress of all students in Spelling through the use of yearly PAT Spelling Assessment and Spelling Mastery formative assessments throughout the program. We’re excited to see the continued growth and confidence in our students as they engage with this structured and proven approach to spelling.

Classroom Support Assistant Appreciation Week.

This week, we proudly celebrate Classroom Support Assistant Appreciation Week – a special time to recognise the incredible contributions of our dedicated CSA team. Our Classroom Support Assistants (CSAs) play a vital role in supporting students across all year levels. Whether working one-on-one, assisting in classrooms, or delivering intervention programs, our CSAs bring compassion, patience, and professionalism to everything they do.

We are truly fortunate to have such an outstanding group of individuals who provide tailored academic and emotional support. Their commitment to nurturing the well-being and learning of every student enriches our entire school environment. We acknowledge and thank our CSAs for their dedication to Catholic education and the vital work they do every day. Their impact on our students is lasting and deeply appreciated.

Father’s Day Stall – Tomorrow!

Tomorrow, all students will have the opportunity to visit the Community Council Father’s Day Stall and purchase a special gift for Dad or an important father figure in their lives.

A big thank you to the wonderful parents and staff who volunteered their time to help pack the gift bags in preparation for the stall — your support is greatly appreciated!

We wish all the dads, grandads, and special father figures in the St Bernard’s community a joyful and love-filled Father’s Day. May your Sunday be full of special surprises, big hugs, and plenty of well-earned appreciation!

Kind regards,

Jeni

Ms Jeni McCarthy

Assistant Principal