Principal's Message

The Gift of Self-Control

As we move through another wonderful school term, SFDS school is focusing on a virtue that helps our children grow both academically and spiritually: Self-Control.

In the Catholic tradition, self-control is much more than just "good behaviour." It is celebrated as one of the Fruits of the Holy Spirit. When we allow God’s grace into our hearts, it produces beautiful fruits like love, joy, peace, and—crucially—self-control. It is the quiet inner strength that helps us choose what is right, even when doing the wrong thing seems much easier.

A wonderful way to talk about this at home with your children is through the stories in the Bible. In the Book of Proverbs, we find a vivid picture of what a lack of self-control looks like:

"Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control." (Proverbs 25:28)

In ancient times, a city's walls were its protection. Without them, the city was vulnerable to any danger. We teach our students that self-control is like our own spiritual wall. It protects our hearts, our friendships, and our peace of mind from being hurt by sudden anger or poor choices.

We see our students practicing this virtue every single day, often in small but heroic ways! In the classroom, students are asked to raise a hand and wait patiently to speak instead of calling out. We encourage our students to focus on learning task even when a classmate is trying to whisper a joke or cause some other distraction. The slide during break times often becomes hazardous and it is great to see children taking turns. 

We all face moments of being tempted to do what we shouldn't. Temptation is a normal part of growing up, but self-control gives us the pause button we need to make a better choice. You can help nurture this at home by encouraging your children to practice self-control in everyday routines:

• Tech and Screen Time: Choosing to turn off the tablet or TV when the timer goes off, without an argument.

• Patience with Siblings: Taking a deep breath and walking away when a brother or sister is pushing their buttons.

• Daily Responsibilities: Completing homework or tidying up toys before asking to go outside and play.

When we practice self-control, we make our homes and our school happier, holier places. Thank you for partnering with us as we guide our children to grow in this beautiful Fruit of the Spirit.

Thoughts and Prayers.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of our families who have loved ones affected by the recent earthquake in the Philippines. We understand this may be a deeply unsettling and worrying time for many within our school community. Please know that we are here to support your children, so do not hesitate to reach out to us if your family needs any extra care or assistance.

Ngā mihi nui,

Nikolai Solia

Principal

Congratulations 

Warm congratulations to the Prasanth family on the arrival of their Son! Wishing you all much joy and happiness. 

Condolences..

We extend our sincere condolences to the Turner family on the passing of their grandfather. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. 

Sports

Inter Zone Cross Country 

It was true winter running for our 17 runners representing our school at Inter Zone Cross Country yesterday. We are very proud of all of them running their hardest in challenging conditions. A special congratulations to Raffaele DG in year 6 who came 10th in his race which means he has qualified to run in the Regional Cross Country on 30 June at Harcourt Park in Upper Hutt. Well done Raffaele!

Dates to Add to Your Diary

Our  SFDS Events Calendar is the best way to stay up to date with everything happening at school — including PE days, special events, and other important dates. You can find the calendar by clicking on the link above or either on our school website or through Hero.