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"IL VIVAIT COMME UN MORT"
I read an English translation of L’Étranger, the well-known existentialist and absurdist novel by Albert Camus, some years ago. And yet it has remained present in my thoughts, reflections, and musings ever since. There’s one line in particular that continues to echo in my mind:
“Il n’était même pas sûr d’être en vie, puisqu’il vivait comme un mort.”
(He wasn’t even sure he was alive, because he was living like a dead man.)
It’s a confronting sentence. It emerges at the end of the novel as a rejection of going through life in a kind of spiritual slumber—drifting, avoiding truth, numbing ourselves with distractions or beliefs that keep us from facing the rawness of life. It’s a call to wake up. Camus was warning us of the danger of living without really living—of simply existing, instead of engaging with the world fully, courageously, and consciously.
This sentence struck me again more recently while reading a very different book—Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet by Thich Nhat Hanh. A Vietnamese Zen master and global spiritual teacher, Thich Nhat Hanh quotes this very line from Camus and offers a powerful interpretation: that many of us live our lives in a kind of spiritual sleep. We rush, we worry, we plan, we scroll—but we forget to live. We forget to breathe. We forget to notice. We forget to be awake to the miracle of our own existence.
Thich Nhat Hanh’s invitation is both gentle and radical. He says we do not need to wait for any grand enlightenment or achievement. The simple act of walking mindfully on the Earth, breathing consciously, or sharing a smile with a child is already a way of coming back to life.
As a Catholic school, our call is not only to academic excellence or good behaviour. We are called to fullness of life. Jesus spoke of this in John’s Gospel: “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” That kind of living is active. It seeks truth. It listens deeply. It notices beauty. It helps others. It takes risks. It questions when something doesn’t sit right. And it feels—joy, sadness, gratitude, wonder.
To live fully isn’t about constant activity or relentless ambition—it’s about presence. It’s about noticing the wonder in ordinary things: a leaf, a voice, a question asked by a curious student. It’s about helping our young people not just succeed, but to wake up—to live with attention, gratitude, and purpose.
Let’s wake up to the gift of being here, together, now. And support our young people to find meaning in their friendships, their learning, their questions. To be sure that they are alive—and to know why.
Mr Casimir Douglas
Tuesday 10th June, 2025
Dear Parents and Carers,
SALUTATION
Grace to you and peace.
STUDENT LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT: NIJSSA CROSS COUNTRY CAPTAINS
We are pleased to share that on Thursday afternoon in our Grade 5/6 classes this week, we announced the Captains of our NIJSSA Cross Country Carnival team that will represent our school at the event at Windsor Park in Riverside next week:
NIJSSA Cross Country Girls Captain: Tess Allie
NIJSSA Cross Country Boys Captain: Max Bertram
These Grade 6 students were appointed to the role following consideration of their sportmanship, skill level and attitude, as well as their modelling of respectful behaviour, and living out the values of our school. Congratulations to Tess and Max!
GOSPEL VALUE AWARDS: JUSTICE
Our fortnightly Gospel Values Awards process provides for the nomination and presentation of the Gospel Value Awards for those students who demonstrate, live out, and exemplify the school's Gospel values. For the month of June, the school community is focused on the Gospel value of JUSTICE. Our Gospel Values: Head, Heart & Hands Framework, reminds our students that to show the value of JUSTICE is to be helpful, be fair, and be be caring.
The following students received a Gospel Value Award at our Prayer Assembly this Tuesday (10th June), as nominated by their class teacher for exemplifying the Gospel value of JUSTICE:
Term 2 - Week 7, 2025 | ||
Poppy Cole | Poppy, you are a helpful, fair and caring friend. We are all so lucky to have you in our Prep M family. Thank you for being you! | Prep More |
Adeline Brumby | Adeline, you show the Gospel Value of Justice when you treat others fairly and with respect. You accept others for who they are and treat everyone the same. | Prep Thomas |
Jack Eadie | Jack shows the Gospel value of justice by consistently looking out for others, often being the first to offer assistance to those who need help in our class. Keep up the great work, Jack! | Grade 1/2 More |
Flynn Goodwin | For consistently following school rules and encouraging others to do the same, understanding that these rules are in place to create a safe and equitable environment for everyone. Your commitment to justice enriches our school community and sets a positive example for others. | Grade 1/2 Saint |
Connor Wrankmore | Connor, your courage, compassion, and dedication to doing what is right stands as an example to others. | Grade 1/2 Thomas |
Magnolia Johns | For consistently demonstrating a strong sense of justice in the classroom. Magnolia shows fairness and kindness to others, stands up for what is right, and always applies herself to her learning with dedication and integrity. Your actions help create a classroom where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued. Amazing work Magnolia! |
Grade 3/4 More |
Tom Speirs | Tom consistently demonstrates fairness and compassion, standing up for what is right and showing kindness to all. | Grade 3/4 Saint |
Hugh Anderson | For leading by example and doing what is right and fair. His actions reflect an understanding of fairness by ensuring that others feel seen, heard and valued. Thank you for helping to create a respectful classroom environment, Hugh! | Grade 3/4 Thomas |
Lincoln Kirschbaum | Lincoln demonstrates the value of justice through his kind and respectful interactions with others. He consistently shows patience and fairness in the way he treats his classmates, teachers, and students across the school. | Grade 5/6 More |
Amelia French | For consistently demonstrating a strong sense of fairness and respect for others. Amelia speaks up for what is right, includes those who may feel left out, and treats all school community members with kindness. She leads by example, stands up for justice in words and actions, and is a positive role model for her peers. | Grade 5/6 Saint |
Cooper Smith | Cooper quietly lives out the Gospel value of justice through his empathy, loyalty, and integrity. He treats others with fairness and kindness, standing by his friends with unwavering support. Though he never seeks recognition, his actions reflect a sense of what is right and just. | Grade 5/6 Thomas |
These students also attended the Principal’s Morning Tea on Tuesday (10th June) in Josephite Hall during the first break at 10:50am.
GRADE 6 REFLECTION DAY - TERM 2
This past Tuesday (10th June), our Grade 6 students participated in their second Reflection Day of the year, once again guided by the ever-inspiring Mr Luke McCormack at Prospect Park. With the sun peeking through the clouds and a sense of calm in the air, the day provided space for students to reflect on the theme of challenges, the second step in their year-long Hero’s Journey.
Using a powerful mix of games, group work, storytelling, open discussion, and meditation, Luke helped the students reflect on what it means to be present, to face difficulties with courage, and to embrace their role as leaders in our school. The day began with the reminder that each day is a gift, and that our mindset each morning shapes what follows. “Choose a positive attitude,” Luke encouraged, “and meet the day with open hands.”
Students explored what it means to step bravely into challenge, drawing on inspiration from athletes like Ariarne Titmus: “I’m choosing to walk through the lion’s door onto the pool deck, not the pussy cat’s door.” This imagery brought to life the idea that we’ve all faced challenges before and with strength, support, and faith, we can do it again.
A central message of the day was that leadership is not reserved for the loudest voice or the boldest action, it’s often found in small, quiet moments of kindness and responsibility. As leaders of our school, our Grade 6 students have a unique influence, and Luke reminded them that even a simple act can have a powerful ripple effect in someone’s day, week, or life.
The final reflection celebrated the beauty of our imperfections and the lifelong journey of uncovering the buried treasure within us all; our God-given gifts and talents. Students were encouraged to see themselves as works in progress, with so much yet to discover and offer.
This Reflection Day was another meaningful step on the road to high school, and we are so grateful for the wisdom, warmth, and wonder that Luke continues to bring to this journey.
PRINCIPAL'S MORNING TEA
At our Prayer Assembly this week, there were a number of students who received a Gospel Value Award for demonstrating the value of JUSTICE. These students attended a special Principal’s Morning Tea in Josephite Hall this Tuesday (10th June).
We were treated to a smorgasbord of fruits, scrolls, and cake and we each shared what we are grateful for in our lives; coming to school to be with our friends and teachers, our kind Principal, life and all its opportunities, receiving a talking unicorn as a birthday present, getting a dirt bike from Devonport, and our loving families for giving us a home, making us delicious food, and for loving us!
They also shared about their hobbies, interests and dreams which included; playing Pac-Man, trampolining, gymnastics, soccer for Juventus, basketball for Saints, drawing plants to capture the patterns on their leaves, footy for Bombers, the Devonport Cup, swimming for South Esk, and attending Rock Club every Thursday!
NIJSSA CROSS COUNTRY CARNIVAL
This past Wednesday (11th June), our Cross Country Team laced up their runners and took to the trails at Windsor Park for the annual NIJSSA Cross Country Carnival. Competing against students from Catholic and Independent schools across Launceston, our athletes ran with grit and determination, securing a strong overall 4th place finish for St Thomas More’s.
A huge congratulations to every student who represented our school—not only for their individual efforts and selection in the team, but also for the spirit and sportsmanship they displayed throughout the day. A number of our runners delivered standout performances to finish in the Top 20 of their event:
Grade 3 Girls – Scout Lunson (8th)
Grade 3 Boys – Ash McPherson (1st), Archer Coombe (9th) & Huxley Clarke (15th)
Grade 4 Girls – Stella Bye (4th)
Grade 4 Boys – Kip Cruse (3rd), Kade Hodgetts (5th), Riley Pearce (7th) & Tom Speirs (10th)
Grade 5 Girls – Gemma Richardson (2nd), London Trotter (8th), Frankie Lunson (10th), Grace Stephens (11th) & Lucy Claxton (18th)
Grade 5 Boys – Chace Bryan (5th)
Grade 6 Girls – Stella Rowe (20th)
Grade 6 Boys – Logan Graham (2nd), Flynn Moore (13th) & Max Bertram (15th)
A big thank you to Mr Nick Stacey for coordinating the day and supporting our team so capably, and to the many staff, parents and volunteers who came along to cheer from the sidelines. Your presence and encouragement made all the difference!
FINAL GREETING
May the grace of Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
God bless,
Mr Casimir Douglas
Principal
Awarded by |
To |
For |
Mrs Wheeler |
Lily Morris |
For confidently embracing her new Clover Book technology to support her learning in the classroom. Your independence and responsibility in taking charge of your learning are inspiring. |
Mrs Wheeler |
Sonny Raitt |
For always giving 100% to every learning opportunity, especially during our free writing time! You approach each task with focus and enthusiasm, and it's clear you take great pride in your work. |
Mrs Wheeler |
Violet Jankowiak |
For always brightening our classroom with your warm smile, kind heart, and caring nature. You look out for others, spread positivity wherever you go, and are simply a joy to have in our 1/2S. |
Mrs Hodgetts |
Ellie Pike |
For her consistent effort and improvement across all subject areas. |
Mrs Hodgetts |
Beau Lewis |
For bringing joy and positivity to our classroom every day, and giving every task your best effort. |
Mrs Hodgetts |
Connor Henderson |
For approaching every learning task with determination and a positive attitude. |
Mrs Carr |
Billie Malthouse |
For the brave and positive way you are entering the classroom each morning. Billie I am so proud of your resilience. You are such a kind, cheerful and hard working member of our class! |
Mrs Carr |
Marlee Cocker |
For always trying your best and being a kind and caring friend. Marlee, you set a great example for others. We are lucky to have you in our class! |
Mrs Hartley |
Ethan Grant |
For the focused and determined way you worked on your narrative last week. You're a wonderful writer who creates great suspense for the reader. I am very proud to be your teacher, Ethan. |
Mrs Hartley |
Paige Wylie |
For the way you balance your role as School Captain with your learning. Paige, your organisation, focus, and commitment to doing your best—both in the classroom and in our school community—is a real credit to you. Well done! |
Mrs Chugg |
Ariella Burgess |
For demonstrating persistence and determination in completing her learning tasks and showing improvement in her studies. Keep working hard, Ariella. |
Mrs Chugg |
Lenny Ralph |
For bringing his positive energy and helping to create a welcoming and happy environment for everyone around you. Keep being you, Lenny! |
Mrs Chugg |
Kade Hodgetts |
For his achievement and sportsmanship shown at the All Schools Cross Country. Congratulations on your amazing result Kade. Keep working hard! |
Mr Davie |
Kohan Leggett |
Kohan has shown a growing ability to bring a calm, focused attitude to the classroom. He contributes thoughtfully to class discussions and is learning to balance having fun and staying on task. Well done, Kohan! |
Mr Davie |
Reuben Saunders |
Reuben is a kind, friendly student who brings warmth to our classroom. He participates actively in 4 Corners discussions, sharing his ideas and listening respectfully to others. Good work, Reuben! |
Mrs Wahl |
Neve Malthouse |
For consistently demonstrating applied effort across all areas of her work. |
Mrs Wahl |
Charlie Bissett |
For consistently looking out for others and offering help willingly. |
Mrs Wahl |
Alby Little |
For demonstrating the school value of Respect through the kind and friendly way he treats everyone in the classroom. |
Mrs Ballard |
Alianna Andrado |
For not only helping people in her classroom, but also consistently helping others pack away equipment after recess and lunch. |
Mrs Ballard |
Louie Crumpton |
For caring for the people around him, helping them with questions and schoolwork, and being respectful during class. |
Mrs Ballard |
Eli Davis-Rattray |
For always being respectful to others around him and standing up for the truth. Eli is always keen to learn and share wonderful ideas. |
Ms Flynn |
Stella Bye |
For your dedication and perseverance in your maths tasks and your positive engagement towards your learning. Amazing work Stella! |
Ms Flynn |
Georgia Sackley |
For always being a positive role model in class and applying yourself to your learning. Keep up the great work Georgia! |
Ms Flynn |
Fawn Cornelius |
For being creative and embracing your writing and learning in class. Keep up the great work Fawn. |
Ms Flynn |
Fergus Menegon |
For showing enthusiasm and sharing knowledge in group discussions. Keep up the great work Fergus! |
Ms Flynn |
Harry Peters |
For applying yourself in class to your learning and sharing in class discussions. Keep up the great work Harry! |
Miss McLauchlan |
Douglas Anderson |
For being a kind, patient, and respectful classmate who consistently supports and encourages others in the classroom. |
Miss McLauchlan |
Orlando Massey |
For consistently showing empathy and insight in our Resilience Project lessons, and contributing with genuine care and thoughtful, compassionate reflections. |
Miss McLauchlan |
Cooper Spanton |
For his genuine and considered contributions to class conversations in the Resilience Project. |
Miss McLauchlan |
Elliot Wheatley |
For showing kindness, patience, and a supportive attitude towards his peers, helping to create a positive and respectful classroom environment. |
Miss McLauchlan |
Dustin Graham |
For the genuine effort and attention to detail he demonstrated during our Pentecost RE lessons, showing deep thinking. |
Mrs Scharapow |
Evie Rainsford |
For your caring and considerate manners. You include others in all activities and love to share your learning with others. |
Mrs Scharapow |
Hazel McGinnis |
For your focus and effort in class. Your commitment to doing your best in all tasks and making positive choices at school is excellent. |
Please keep our Confirmation candidates in your thoughts and prayers as they continue their faith journey and prepare to receive the Holy Spirit this weekend as they make their Sacrament of Confirmation.
We have a new Crossing Guard!
Looking for a joyful, educational start for your little one? Our Joeys Playgroup at St Thomas More’s Catholic School is the place to be!
✅ FREE sessions for children aged birth to 4!
✅ Fun, learning & play in a school environment!
✅ Run by experienced, accredited educators
✅ Tuesdays 9:00am - 10:30am during term time!
Come along to Josephite Hall and watch your child’s curiosity and confidence grow! Plus, connect with other local families and share in the joy of learning together!
No bookings required — just turn up & have fun!
St Thomas More’s Catholic School
Every Tuesday (School Term)
Feast of St Thomas More's
All day Recurring event |
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Feast of St Thomas More's
All day Recurring event |
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STM Feast Day Mass
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM |
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St Thomas More's Feast Day Celebrations
All day |
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Whole School Mass
All day |
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Set up for Success/Joeys
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Recurring event |
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P&F Meeting
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM |
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Foundation Band & Strings Workshop 1 - St Ailbes
All day |
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Set up for Success/Joeys
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Recurring event |
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Term 2 concludes for Staff and Students
All day |