St. Therese

Who would have thought that a little school which opened its doors in 1986 with just two classrooms, six staff and 36 students would grow into the wonderful community we know today, with 350 students, 200 families and a staff of 35? What an amazing journey over 40 years!

Our 40th anniversary celebrations today were absolutely fantastic and a wonderful reflection of the spirit and community that makes St Therese such a special place.

We began with a beautiful Mass celebrated by Fr Joel, and it was particularly lovely to welcome back Fr Greg, our long-serving parish priest from some 20 years ago, to join us for the occasion.

Our staff certainly embraced the 1980s theme, looking fantastic in their retro outfits! Our school tours were expertly led by our senior student leaders, who did a tremendous job welcoming visitors and sharing their school with pride. The morning tea provided by our wonderful Parents and Friends helpers was another highlight and greatly appreciated by everyone who attended.

We finished the day with our extended anniversary assembly, and what a terrific occasion it was! We had guest speeches from past students Tim Diamond, Beth Jenns, Xavier Huxtable and inaugural teacher, Jacinta Foster Raimondo. It was wonderful to see such a large turnout from our school community, past and present. The singing, performances and opportunity to come together and celebrate 40 years of St Therese made for a very special afternoon.

A huge thank you to Marisa Joseph, who, along with Kerrie, Jackie, Veronica, Jo, Russ, Lou, Ross, Anthony, Laura, Jan and a host of other beautiful parents and carers, put so much time and effort into organising today's celebrations. Their hard work ensured that this milestone was marked in a fitting and memorable way. We are especially grateful for the contributions of Jackie and Lou, who despite their own health concerns at present, both gave so generously of their time to help coordinate the day.

Of course, the celebrations aren't quite finished! We look forward to welcoming our parents to the Torquay Bowls Club tomorrow evening from 7–9pm for our 40th anniversary social night. Once again, a huge thank you to Marisa for all the work she put into coordinating a sensational celebration.

Forty years of learning, friendships, faith and community. There is certainly plenty to celebrate, and plenty to look forward to as we begin the next chapter in the story of St Therese.

What a wonderful day and what a wonderful school community!

Have a great weekend,

Josh

This week we celebrated our 4o Years as a school. It is a time where we were able to reflect on how we have grown, changed and moved forward. During a time where so much in the world has changed, it was lovely to hear and see stories and images from the past. These stories link us all in the ways that mean we belong. Maybe you have been here for a long time, maybe you are very new- each person adds their own flavour and brings their own gifts to create a place of connection, community and care. It indeed makes us grateful for all that we have had to celebrate. All those who have gone before us and all who have made and continue to make this a unique place.

We act with Compassion & Respect & Gratitude

Jan (Wellbeing)

https://lifeed.org.au/ruok-day/

www.ruok.org.au