APMI News
….experiencing FAITH in the Mercy Tradition
Dear Families,
Staff values – As a whole staff, we have been working towards creating a document which outlines the practical ways in which we can be living our school values of Compassion, Excellence & Service. Often we ask the students to do exactly that but over look how we might go about modelling those values in action with each other as adults. Take a look at the document attached. I would love to hear your feedback.
I was privileged to spend time at the TCS APMI Retreat in Bunya Mountains last week. What a blessing it was to spend time in nature: silence & stillness; just so important for our wellbeing. The retreated entitled, “Pilgrims of Hope on our Great Southern Sacred Ground” gave me a sacred opportunity to connect deeply with Country and encounter God, our Creator. Br Damien Price presented a number of Encounter experiences which allowed me to be present, open and aware. This time has inspired me to create a similar encounter for our staff and therefore our students. I am grateful for the experience and the supportive group of like minded educators who took part.
As we welcome the vibrant season of Spring, we also enter a special time in the Church’s Liturgical season known as the Season of Creation—a global celebration running from 1 September to 4 October. This season invites us to reflect on the beauty of the natural world and our shared responsibility to care for it.
What is the Season of Creation?
The Season of Creation is a time when we unite in prayer and action to protect our common home. Inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’, it encourages us to see the Earth as a precious gift from God. Children are invited to explore how they can be stewards of creation—caring for plants, animals, and each other with love and respect.
Spring is a season of renewal and growth. It brings warmer days, blooming flowers, and the return of many native animals. Students learn to observe seasonal changes—like weather patterns, plant life cycles, and animal behaviours—and understand how these changes affect our lives and the world around us. It’s a wonderful time to encourage outdoor learning, nature walks, and creative expression inspired by the beauty of creation.
On 1 September, we celebrated the Feast Day of Our Lady of the Southern Cross, the patron of the Toowoomba Diocese. This day holds deep meaning for our local Catholic community. The Southern Cross constellation, visible in our night skies, symbolises guidance and hope—just as Mary points us toward her Son, Jesus. This feast day is unique to our Diocese and marks:
- The anniversary of our first Bishop taking possession of the Cathedral;
- The beginning of Spring; and
- A time to pray for unity and renewal across our diocesan family.
The Year 6 students took part in a special Mass on Monday, led by Toowoomba’s Bishop, Ken Howell. Bishop Ken asked the students to look to RENEWAL - renewal in ourselves, renewal in others and to start again so that we can look towards being the best people we can be. We reflect on the honour Mary’s important role has in our faith and her connection to our land.
We invite you to join us in celebrating this season—through prayer, conversation, and small acts of care for creation. Together, we can help our children grow in faith, gratitude, and responsibility for the world around them.
Whole school/community Service activities
Red Cross Life blood donations:
A special message from the Red Cross Life Blood Team: JOIN OUR SCHOOLS BLOOD DRIVE! Half way through Term 3 and the school holidays aren’t far away. Toowoomba schools have achieve the following so far: 544 donations which have impacted on 1,632 lives with 8 first-time donors
Our goal is to achieve 1,750 donations and 75 first-time donors, and we’re on track to get there, but we’ll need your support to hit the target. Can we count you in?
What are you doing these school holidays? Staying local? Taking a much-needed break? Lifeblood has 78 donor centres located across Australia, so book your seat to save lives and make a life-changing difference to someone in need. Encourage family and friends to join your Lifeblood Team and watch your school’s life-giving donation tally grow!
It takes 3 simple steps to get involved.
- Check you’re Eligible to Donate
- Visit our website or download our free Donate Blood App to enrol, create your Donor Account and join your Lifeblood Team;
- Book your blood or plasma donation at your nearest Donor Centre.
Thank you in advance for your support so please get in touch if you have any questions or would like to be part of our Group Booking in the future.
Thank you in advance for considering this opportunity.
TERM 3 DATE CLAIMERS
Week 8 Friday 4th September – Student-free day for Consistent Teacher Judgment PD for staff
Week 8 - Sunday 7th September - Father’s Day
Week 9 – Child Protection Week
Week 10 - Thursday 18th September - 8.45am - End of term assembly
I hope you have a great week, find a chance to do something that fills your cup and show yourself some self care.
Thanks for reading,
Ann-Maree Ward (Assistant Principal – Mission & Identity)