Week 8- Term 3 Newsletter 2024

Principal's Message

Dear Families & friends,

Primary Public Speaking Finals

This week we held our Primary Public Speaking Finals, in which students from Years 3-6  competed to be selected to participate in the Clarence Schools Public Speaking Competition at St John Paul College . Congratulations to Lawson Bell (Year 3), Isaak Bailey (Year 4), Owen Moss (Year 5) & Zali Nichols (Year 6), who took out our finals and will be representing our school in Week 10 against students from 12 other Clarence Catholic Primary Schools. No doubt if they perform similarly to this week 's final, they will do a wonderful job showcasing their speaking skills and representing our school.

Public Speaking Finalists

• Year 3 - Lawson Bell, Max Anderson & Bella Camilleri
• Year 4 - Isaak Bailey, Poppie Weedon & Lila Salter
• Year 5 - Owen Moss, Caide Schylder & Marlie Cook
• Year 6 - Zali Nichols, Flynn Crowley & Zoe Brett

Staff Development Days - Friday 21st September & Monday 9th October

Just a reminder that in Week 10 on Friday 27th September it will be as Pupil Free Day with staff taking part in a follow up day from our School Review Process. This day is on opportunity for staff to reflect on the learning obtained in this school review and to begin to set out our 2025-27 School Improvement Plan.

Also upon return to Term 4, Monday 9th October will also be Pupil Free Day, with staff engaging a number of whole-school sessions around our current 2024 priorities. Students return to school on TUESDAY 15TH OCTOBER. 

Premier's Reading Challenge Reward Day

A big thank you to all our families for their tremendous support in encouraging our students to participate in the Premier's Reading Challenge. It was truly wonderful to be able to celebrate this incredible achievement with all our students during Wednesday’s Reward Excursion to the Big 4 at Palmers Island. The joy and excitement on the students' faces was priceless, and it was such a fitting way to acknowledge the hard work they’ve put into their reading throughout the year.

Having every single student complete the challenge is an outstanding accomplishment, and this could not have been possible without the dedication and commitment of Mrs. O'Brien. Her tireless efforts, from organising this special excursion to continually encouraging each student to reach their reading goals, have been exceptional. We are incredibly grateful to her for ensuring that reading remains an enjoyable and celebrated part of our school life. Thank you again to our families, Mrs. O'Brien, and, most importantly, our students for making this a truly memorable milestone

Tournament of the Minds

A huge congratulations to our Tournament of the Minds (TOM) team, comprised of Zali Nicols, Lila Salter, Poppie Weedon, Tully White, Roo Coulson, Grace Bell, and Flynn Crowley, who proudly represented St Joseph's at the TOM Regional Finals held in Tweed Heads last Sunday. This incredible group of students demonstrated remarkable teamwork, creativity, and critical thinking in their approach to the Arts Challenge. Their hard work and dedication truly shone through on the day, as they showcased their innovative ideas and solutions with confidence and poise.

We are thrilled to announce that the team not only represented our school with great pride but also achieved the outstanding honour of being crowned Regional Champions in their respective category! This is an amazing achievement and a testament to their perseverance, collaborative spirit, and passion for the challenge. We are so proud of each team member for their commitment and effort in preparing for this prestigious competition. Congratulations once again to our TOM team—you have done our school proud! Lastly a BIG THANKYOU to Miss Ava Bowcock, who assisted our students in both in the preparation of the day and last Sunday, we are extremely grateful for the guidance you showed our students through this process.

Deb Bailey - ANNOUNCEMENT 

It is with mixed emotions that I inform you that Deb Bailey, our substantive Assistant Principal, who has been currently serving as Acting Principal at Mount St Johns Dorrigo this year, has been appointed to the permanent position of Principal in Dorrigo from 2025 onwards.

Deb will be sorely missed from our school community, and being someone who has filled a number of roles in our school for 14 years including; classroom teacher, Leader of Mission, Leader of Infants, Assistant Principal & Acting Principal, Deb has contributed greatly to both the culture and success of our school community.

We wish Deb all the best in her future endeavors and understand that this appointment is a wonderful achievement and opportunity in the her professional journey. I will be looking to organise with the Parent Forum's assistance an opportunity to thank Deb publicly for her time & service to our school, at a school event later in Term 4.   

Kind regards

Dale

Upcoming School Dates

• School Review (Monday 16th-Wednesday 18th September)
  
• Spelling Bee Finals (Thursday 19th September)
• S2 & S3 Touch Football Gala Day - Yamba (Friday 20th September)
• Zone Public Speaking Finals (Monday 23rd September)
• SRC Talent Quest (Thursday 26th September)
• Staff Development Day (Friday 27th September)

Leaders of Learning

The Five Critical Questions: Exploring "How Can You Improve?"

This week, we continue our focus on Lyn Sharratt’s 'Five Critical Questions' with the fourth question: "How can you improve?"

This question encourages students to take ownership of their learning by identifying specific areas for growth. It goes beyond acknowledging what they’ve done well, prompting them to think about what strategies or actions they need to focus on next.

When students answer "How can you improve?" they’re guided by the feedback and Success Criteria already established in the classroom. Teachers support this process by helping students set short-term goals and offering specific advice on how to tackle areas of improvement. Whether it’s revisiting a concept, practicing a skill, or refining their work, students are encouraged to reflect on practical steps they can take to enhance their understanding and performance

Students should be able to articulate their learning goals and use tools like Bump-It-Up Walls and exemplars to guide their progress independently. These tools offer concrete examples of what success looks like, helping students understand how to apply feedback effectively and track their improvement.

To effectively answer "How can you improve?", students reflect on questions such as:

• What specific steps can I take to address the feedback?
• How can I apply this feedback to enhance my work?
• What are my immediate goals for improvement?

This reflection helps students focus on actionable steps and ensures they are actively working towards their goals.

Next week, we will explore the fifth and final question, "Where do you go for help?"

Mrs Senz, Mrs Mclennan and Mrs Mullins

Mission & Values

Mercy In Action Award

This fortnights Mercy In Action Award recipient is Sylvie Donaldson, in recognition of displaying the Mercy Value of Respect. Sylvie consistently treats her peers and teachers with kindness and thoughtfulness. She shows kindness and consideration towards others, valuing their feelings and opinions. Sylvie’s ability to listen, support, and uplift those around her truly embodies the spirit of respect in our school. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition Sylvie!

Year 4 Accendere Retreat 

‘And now I give you a new commandment: LOVE ONE ANOTHER. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. If you have love for one another, then everyone will know that YOU ARE MY DISCIPLES.’                                                                                                                                                                                                 - John 13: 34-35

This Monday, Year 4 students participated in the Accendere retreat based on the scripture above from John 13. The theme of the day was friendship, and through games, activities and stories, students explored what makes a good friend, how Jesus treated his friends, who is our neighbour, and how to be a good friend.

Jesus’ disciples were his friends as well as his followers. They were the ones that continued his work after he left. Jesus respected them and took them with him everywhere. He shared meals with them, laughed, and even cried when they needed a friend. Through the Good Samaritan parable, students learned how to follow His example and show love to others, even if we don’t know them that well. How we treat people, especially our friends and the other students in our class and school, is a way to show love and kindness, as Jesus asked us to. They learned that any act of kindness makes the world a better place for everyone, no matter how big or small. Kindness is doing what you can, where you are, with what you have. 

Thank you to Mrs. Mclennan for leading the retreat. The kids all had a wonderful day and really enjoyed spending the day together as friends and classmates.

Thank you to Mrs Mclennan and Miss Livanes for leading the retreat. 

School Parish Mass and First Holy Communion

Last Sunday, our school community gathered in joyful celebration during our School Parish Mass, where we had the privilege of witnessing Reece, Sam, Jack, Oil, Sophia and Jesse receive their First Holy Communion. This significant milestone marks a profound moment in their spiritual journey, as they take a step deeper into their faith and their relationship with Jesus.

The day was filled with excitement and reverence, as the children received the Eucharist for the first time. This sacrament, as emphasized by Pope John Paul II, is not only a personal encounter with Jesus but also a moment that strengthens their bond with the Church community. The joy on their faces reflected the deep significance of this occasion.

We extend our congratulations to each student who participated in the Mass and received their First Holy Communion. This day will be a cherished memory for them and their families, as they continue to grow in their understanding of the Eucharist and its importance in their lives.

A heartfelt thank you goes to Fr. Roland, who celebrated this special Mass and guided our students through this important sacramental moment. His leadership and pastoral care were instrumental in making the day memorable for everyone involved.

Additionally, we extend our gratitude to the wonderful ladies who prepared a magnificent celebratory morning tea. Their efforts in organising this gathering allowed families and friends to come together, celebrating the achievements of our First Communicants and fostering a sense of community.

Class Awards

Our Principal's Award winners this week are:

Our Class Award winners this week are: 

Class News - Stage 3

Science

Stage 3 students have been exploring the science of how materials combine and change. To wrap up the unit, students were challenged to design a new food item for our canteen—and then make it! The staff room kitchen was filled with excitement as students experimented with ingredients, testing their knowledge of chemical reactions and mixtures. There were plenty of delicious successes, along with some learning opportunities from dishes that didn't quite go to plan. It was a fun and tasty way to bring science to life!

Religion

In Religion, students have also been wrapping up their unit 'Care of Our Common Home'. Using their learning from throughout the term, students were asked to create a call to action video that inspires others and promotes being a steward of creation. Students were asked to highlight areas of need for our world and then think about how we could make a difference at school or at home to care for creation. They then had to find a scripture/s that supported this and could be used to motivate others in the call to action. Below are some screenshots of their videos.

Year 5 and Little Joey Buddies

Our Year 5 students had an exciting day meeting their Little Joey buddies for the first time this term! It was heartwarming to see the older students take on the role of mentors, guiding and supporting their younger peers.

Mrs Senz, Mrs Kinsella and Miss Brown

Creative Arts

WOWEEE! Last week I sent off 114 plate designs (133 total orders!!), to Picture Products to have the amazing artwork produced, turned into melamine plates! Have a look at the flowchart provided by Picture Procuts as to what happens from this point on. We should be starting the ‘Scan & Print’ stage shortly (gentleman in pink, kanga and sloth)!

The profit from this fundraiser will fully allow us to purchase the rights and associated ShowKit materials for a musical in 2025. I will be meeting with students from Years 5 - 2 early next term around the interest and the kinds of musicals we have to select from.

In Year 2 we have been focusing on becoming puppeteers; exploring finger, hand and sock puppets over the last few weeks. Students have been learning about moving their hand to appropriately mimic talking and mouth movements; plus adding accents and voices to their puppets.

Year 2 were AMAZING with the design and creation of their sock puppets; sharing resources, wielding hot glue guns like pros and were so excited watching their designs come to life! Stoked levels were real!

“You can't use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” Maya Angelou

Big artsy & dramatic love

Ms Zietsch

School Sport

We've had some exciting sporting achievements recently! A special shoutout to the Stage 3 girls—Zali Nichols, Meesha Ellis, Grace Bell, Georgia Salter, and super coach Ava Bowcock—who competed valiantly in their local netball competition, securing third place for the Maclean Meteors.

We also hosted our Jump Off Day, where students showcased their skipping skills learned through the Jumprope for Heart initiative. Activities like speed skipping, jumping the river, and clumps focused on speed, distance, and teamwork.

Miss Ava and Mrs Connor took our Stage 3 students to the Far North Coast Regional Schools Netball Comp. After placing second in the Schools Cup earlier this year, the team proudly represented Joey’s, winning their first game and learning from others throughout the day.

In Friday sport, Zane has been teaching Football (K-2) and Touch (3-6), helping students develop teamwork, communication, and movement skills. They continue to enjoy refining these skills.

Looking ahead, Week 9 will feature the S2 and S3 Touch Gala Day in Yamba, where students can showcase their skills. Parents are encouraged to come along and cheer!

For Term 4, swimming and surfing will be offered. Registration details for surfing (S2 & S3) will be released soon. Surfing will be led by Shayne at various Yamba beaches, and swimming at Maclean pool.

Mr Gilchrist

Technology/STEM News

Exciting News: STEM MAD Team!

We are incredibly proud to announce that our STEM MAD Toadinaitor team has been selected to represent our diocese at the National Catholic Network Australia (CNA) STEM MAD Showcase in Brisbane this November! This is a wonderful achievement for our students, who have demonstrated impressive skills in creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration throughout their STEM project.

STEM MAD is a national competition that encourages students to tackle real-world problems while highlighting the distinctive values of Catholic schools. Our team addressed the issue of cane toads in the Clarence Valley by developing an innovative trap made from reusable materials. The design cleverly incorporates a solar-powered light to attract insects, making it an eco-friendly and effective solution.

Congratulations to Hailen Capp, Avah Anderson, Owen Moss and Brock Camilleri.

Exploring Australia through Research and Technology

This week, our Year 1 students used technology to explore Where are places located in Australia? and How are people connected to places? Using Padlet, an interactive online tool, they worked on guided research projects about Australia’s capital cities, uncovering fascinating facts about famous landmarks. Some students shared their excitement about visiting places like Darwin to see crocodiles and sunsets, Melbourne’s Luna Park, and Sydney’s iconic Harbour Bridge and Bondi Beach.

By integrating technology into their Geography studies, this project demonstrates how digital tools enhance learning, helping students connect with the world while building valuable research skills.

eSafety

We are committed to helping students develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes to be safe and respectful users of technology. 

We are also aware that students’ online experiences often move seamlessly between school and home, and are therefore aiming to develop, with your support, a whole-of-community approach to keeping our students safe online.

We will be sharing a range of information, tips and resources for parents and carers from the eSafety Commissioner (eSafety.gov.au) that you can use with your family to help create positive experiences for your children online. We encourage all parents and carers to keep an eye on our school newsletter for information you can use to build your knowledge, skills and understanding of online safety.

Mrs Mclennan

Pastoral Care - School Chaplain

Wellbeing awareness and fundraiser

On Friday, our school proudly participated in R U OK? Day, a significant initiative dedicated to encouraging meaningful conversations and fostering support among peers. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of staying connected and being there for one another through life's ups and downs.

In line with the day’s theme, our students engaged in activities designed to build their social and emotional skills. They learned how to start conversations with their peers, enhancing their ability to provide support and be compassionate friends. 

To show our solidarity with this important cause, everyone wore yellow, the official colour of R U OK? Day. The vibrant hue not only helped to raise awareness but also symbolised our collective commitment to mental health and wellbeing.

Thank you for your continued support in making our school a caring and connected community.

Teachers Aide Appreciation Week

At St. Joseph's, we celebrated Teacher's Aide Day on Tuesday, acknowledging the significant impact our Teacher's Aides have on our learning experience. Their hard work and dedication are truly invaluable to us.

To show our appreciation, the school hosted a special lunch organised by Dale. It was a heartfelt gesture to recognise the incredible contributions of our Teacher's Aides.

Thank you all for making such a positive difference in our education!

SRC Funday

A reminder that Thursday 26th September, will be a day filled with fun and talent at our SRC Funday! Our students have been eagerly preparing for the Talent Show, showcasing their incredible skills in singing, dancing, and a variety of impressive tricks.

In addition to the Talent Show, we will also be holding a handball competition, where students will test their skills and engage in friendly competition. It promises to be an action-packed day full of excitement and school spirit.

We warmly invite all families to join us for these festivities and support our students as they shine in their performances. Your presence will make the event even more special for everyone involved.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Ms Mead - Student Wellbeing Officer/School Chaplain

Pastoral Care - School Counsellor

Raising Resilient Kids

As part of our focus on building students wellbeing and resilience, the educational theatre program BEING BRAVE was performed at St Joey’s last week. It was a fun interactive performance that presented a range of challenging scenarios and demonstrated positive coping skills. It highlighted that being brave is not about having no fear, but about overcoming those feelings of worry and trying new things.

Being brave is important for building resilience. 

Once a child has overcome feelings of fear to try new situations, and has had little wins, they build up their courage to take on the next obstacle knowing they can do the hard stuff. The more successful experiences they have, and the more support they receive when things get bumpy, the better they can recover from setbacks. This builds their resilience.

To build bravery in your child, break down difficult or daunting activities into achievable steps. Allow your child to experience success often. This helps them develop the self knowledge that they can give things a go. 

Make time to have conversations with your child about unfamiliar situations to make them less worrisome. Encourage them to try new experiences and celebrate and acknowledge their efforts so they feel brave enough to keep trying.

It can be helpful for all of us to be reminded that bravery is a skill that can be taught and needs to be practiced.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss any of this content further you can contact me at the school on Thursdays and Fridays or via jessica.jones@lism.catholic.edu.au

Jess Jones - School Counsellor

Bullying & Friendships

Developing your Child’s Social Skills

Social skills are the essential behaviours and communication abilities that enable individuals to engage effectively and harmoniously with others in various social situations. Improving your child's social skills is an ongoing process that involves practice, patience, and support.

Here are some strategies to help enhance your child's social skills:

• Encourage Play: Encourage your child to engage in unstructured play with peers, which allows them to practice social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and cooperating. Provide opportunities for both one-on-one and group play experiences.

• Teach Conversation Skills: Help your child develop conversation skills by teaching them how to greet others, ask questions, listen actively, and maintain eye contact. Practice having simple conversations with your child and provide feedback on their communication skills.

• Role-Play Scenarios: Use role-playing to help your child practice social interactions in different situations. Role-play common scenarios such as introducing themselves to a new friend, asking for help, or resolving conflicts peacefully. Offer praise and constructive feedback to reinforce positive behaviours.

• Promote Empathy: Teach your child to understand and empathise with the feelings of others. Encourage them to consider how their words and actions may impact others and to show kindness and compassion towards their peers. Model empathetic behaviour in your own interactions.

• Practice Sharing and Cooperation: Encourage your child to share toys, games, and other resources with their peers. Teach them the importance of cooperation and teamwork through collaborative activities such as building projects, group games, or working on a task together.

• Provide Social Opportunities: Arrange playdates, join clubs or extracurricular activities, and participate in community events to give your child opportunities to interact with peers outside of school. Exposure to diverse social settings can help broaden your child's social skills and build confidence in social situations.

• Set Realistic Expectations: Be patient and understanding as your child learns and develops their social skills. Recognise that progress may take time and that setbacks are a natural part of the learning process. Celebrate small victories and offer encouragement along the way. Praise your child for demonstrating positive social behaviours such as sharing, being inclusive, using polite manners, and showing empathy.

• When a Friendship Issue Happens: Issues amongst friends that don’t constitute bullying often occur as children navigate their social world. As a parent, it is important to avoid:

  • Jumping in to fix the friendship drama,
  • Dismissing your child’s feelings about it, or
  • Advising them to ‘find new friends.’

Instead, listen, ask open-ended questions, empathise, and ask your child if they want you to help them brainstorm possible ideas. Sometimes, your child might just want a listening ear. Keeping calm when your child describes their friendship issues is an important way to model emotional regulation.

If you have concerns about your child's social development or if they are struggling significantly in social situations, consider seeking guidance from the school. If there are ongoing concerns after the implementation of strategies at home and at school, a referral from your GP may assist you in exploring any underlying issues so your child can experience social success and navigate social interactions with confidence.

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