Dear parents and carers

Well it certainly has been an action-packed fortnight at St Michael’s! Term 3 is always a special time in our school calendar - traditionally a season where learning literally leaps off the page and into the real world through hands-on activities, exciting excursions, and visits from inspiring community members and experts. Our students have been fully immersed in rich, engaging experiences that bring their learning to life in the most memorable ways.

One of the absolute highlights was our magical celebration of Book Week - and what a week it was! Our school was transformed into a wonderland of words, where imagination reigned supreme. Thanks to the incredible efforts of our much-loved Librarian, Mrs Stuart, students were treated to a treasure trove of literary delights, from book sales brimming with page-turners, to the ever popular and much anticipated Book Week Parade.

The parade was a spectacular showcase of creativity and character, with students (and staff!) stepping into the shoes of their favourite storybook heroes. From wizards and wild things to superheroes and fairytale favourites, the school was bursting with colour, joy and storytelling magic.

A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated staff, supportive and incredibly creative parents, and enthusiastic students for making these past two weeks so vibrant and unforgettable. 

At St Michael’s, we don’t just learn - we live the adventure of learning every day!

Standing Strong Together: St Michael’s Takes a Bold Stand Against Bullying

At St Michael’s creating a safe, respectful and inclusive environment is a top priority 0 and that means taking a strong stand against bullying. Last week our school proudly joined schools across the country in the Bullying. No Way! National Week of Action, reinforcing our commitment to empowering students with the confidence and skills to call out bullying, support one another, and prevent harmful behaviour before it starts.

This year’s theme - Be Bold. Be Kind. Speak Up. - resonated deeply resonated with our students. From Prep to Year 6, students explored what it means to be an upstander, not a bystander. Through classroom discussions, role-playing, and creative activities, they learned how to recognise bullying, respond with kindness and courage, and speak up for themselves and others.

One of the highlights of the week was a vibrant poster campaign, where students expressed their anti-bullying messages through powerful artwork and slogans. These posters now brighten up our school walls, serving as daily reminders that St Michael’s, bullying has no place.

Together, we are building a culture where every student feels safe, valued, and supported. Let’s keep the momentum going - because when we remember to Be Bold, Be Kind, and Speak Up, we can and do make a difference!

Year 2 excursion to Kuranda

All Aboard for a Journey Through Time! 

This term, our adventurous Year 2 students have been uncovering the rich history of our Cairns region - from the early days to the present. And what better way to bring their learning to life than by stepping aboard one of our most iconic treasures: the Kuranda Scenic Railway.

On Tuesday last week, students hopped on this historic train for an unforgettable excursion. Built over 100 years ago, the railway was a remarkable engineering feat, carved through the rugged rainforest and steep mountains to connect Cairns to the Atherton Tablelands. It played a vital role in transporting people and goods, shaping the development of our region.

As the train wound its way up the range, students heard fascinating stories about how transport has evolved over time and how this railway has helped build the Cairns we know today.

It was a real-life journey into the past - and a chance to experience history in motion!

Crystal Caves in Atherton - Year 3

Year 3 Rocks their Learning with a Sparkling Science Adventure!

This term, our curious Year 3 students have been exploring the wonders of Science and English, uncovering the secrets of geological formations, investigating the fascinating differences between living and non-living things, and discovering the magic of life cycles. They have been hands-on with soils, rocks and minerals - learning all about their unique properties and why these natural resources are so important to our world.

The highlight of their studies culminated in a dazzling excursion to The Crystal Caves in Atherton! With wide eyes and eager minds, our students explored the underground world of glittering gems and mysterious minerals on a guided tour that brought their classroom learning to life. From sparkling crystals to ancient fossils, it was a day full of awe, excitement and unforgettable discoveries.

By all accounts, it was a gem of a day - and a brilliant way to celebrate all the amazing learning happening in Year 3!

Year 5 Dive into Discovery at the Cairns Aquarium!

Our Year 5 students have been diving deep into the fascinating world of Animal Adaptations as part of their Science and English studies, and their curiosity is truly coming to life! This term, their learning journey took an exciting turn with an immersive excursion to the Cairns Aquarium. Guided by expert educators, students explored the incredible ways marine creatures have adapted to survive and thrive in their environments.

From camouflaged cuttlefish to the powerful jaws of reef predators, our students were captivated by the wonders of the underwater world. Getting up close with these amazing creatures brought their classroom learning to life in the most unforgettable way. It was a hands-on minds-on experience that sparked wonder, deepened understanding, and showcased the power of learning through real-world experiences.

At St Michael’s we are proud to offer rich, engaging experiences that inspire a lifelong love of learning!

 

Feast of the Assumption - A Joyful Celebration of Faith

Last Friday, the St Michael’s community came together in a truly special way to celebrate the Feast of the Assumption. 

Our church was filled to the brim with students, staff, parents, friends and parishioners - a heartwarming sight that reflected the strength of our faith community. Presided over by Father Sabu, the Mass was a beautiful and reverent tribute to Mary, the mother of Jesus who was taken up into Heaven - body and soul. The feast reminds us of Mary’s deep faith and trust in God, and inspires us to follow her example in our own lives.

It was a truly uplifting celebration that brought our school community together in prayer, reflection and joy.

https://youtu.be/ama6G7-OQd4

Australian Catholic Education Conference

St Michael’s Students Shine at Diocesan Mass and National Conference Launch

On Wednesday this week, 20 of our senior students had the honour of attending a truly heartwarming and unforgettable event - the launch of the National Catholic Education Conference in Cairns. Held at the Cairns Convention Centre, this special occasion brought together over 1,000 students from schools across the Cairns Diocese for a moving Mass presided over by Bishop Joe.

The day began with a powerful formation experience, setting the tone for what was to be a deeply spiritual and joyous celebration. Students, teachers, school leaders, and delegates from Catholic schools all over Australia gathered in unity, faith and song. The voices of our students filled the space with hope and pride, and for many, it was a moment that truly touched the heart, bringing more than a few tears to the eyes of those present.

We are incredibly proud of our students for representing St Michael’s with grace, reverence and joy. Their presence and participation in this national event reminded us all of the strength and beauty of our Catholic community.