Term 4 Week 7

What's on at St Joey's

Principal's Messages

Dear Parents and Carers,

The staff and students have been engaged in many assessment tasks to help finalise semester reporting. These results help form the end of year grades and are also passed on to next year's teacher, so they have a starting point for the beginning of the year. Reports will be published on Compass on Friday 13th December.

Staffing for 2025 will soon be finalised and classes will be announced in the next newsletter. Please talk with your class teacher if you have any concerns about placement, but please know that a great deal of discernment and planning goes into classes for 2025. Teachers work closely together in handover meetings to share information about each student in preparation for the next year. Not only are academic needs considered but social needs as well. If you are moving on please contact the school office with details of new address and school for your child.

Some families have notified the school of end of year holidays. It is a requirement of parents to apply for extended leave when a student is away for 10 days or more. A Certificate of Leave is then issued by the school principal. These are saved on the student records in Compass. Please use this form to apply for extended leave and submit to the school's office.

There have been many wonderful student achievements to celebrate during the last few weeks. Congratulations to Abigail in Year 6 for her work with the ASPIRE Scriptwriters program. Abigail had her script performed at the Warners Bay Theatre last Thursday night. She said it was great to experience the live performance of her written work.

Daniel, Isabella and Lochlan in Year 5 presented their individual projects for the Virtual Academy at the NU Space Newcastle Uni last week. Luca Year 6 and Eli Year 5 will present this week. You can read more information below about these students and their efforts. Thank you to Gifted Project Officer, Bek Henshaw for her support of these students.

In sport we congratulate the following students for advancing through the summer trials for their chosen sports:

Leo - Diocesan Tennis Trials

Jeremy, Evie, Cora - Diocesan Basketball Trials

Owen - Polding Cricket Trials

Billie broke the backstroke record at the recent Coast & Valley Swimming Championships, 11 year girls.

Deepest sympathy to the Kendros family on the passing of Neva and Emilia's paternal grandmother. We pray that your loving memories bring you comfort at this sad time.

As we come into the beautiful church season of Advent, please take time with your families to look at our Catholic traditions and focus some real energy on the true meaning of Christmas. Here are some simple ways to bring Advent joy to children while helping them to learn about, and personalise, some of our rich faith traditions: 

God Bless,

Kate Drake

Neurodiversity

Assistant Principal

As we move into the final weeks of the school year, the energy and activity around the school are at an all-time high. With end-of-year celebrations, events, and preparations underway, it’s inspiring to see our school community come together with enthusiasm and purpose.

One significant focus during this time is the completion of student reports. This process reflects the collaborative effort of teachers who carefully assess each student’s growth and achievements across the year. Report writing involves thoughtful reflection, ensuring every child’s progress is acknowledged, and next steps for learning are clearly outlined. These reports serve as a valuable tool for celebrating successes and identifying areas for continued growth as students prepare for the next stage of their educational journey. Reports will be uploaded on Compass on Friday 13^th December.

Amid the busyness, it is important for us to finish the term with the same high standards and values that guide us all year. Let’s strive to achieve our personal best in everything we do, remembering to live as Jesus taught—showing kindness, respect, and compassion to others. As stewards of our environment, we are also called to care for God’s creation. Small actions, such as reducing waste, conserving resources, and recycling, can make a big difference in protecting the world we share.

Over the coming weeks we also prepare to farewell our incredible Year 6 students as they embark on the next chapter of their educational journey—high school. These final weeks are a time of mixed emotions: excitement for the adventures ahead, pride in their accomplishments, and a touch of nostalgia as they prepare to leave the school community that has nurtured them. It’s been a privilege to watch them grow into confident, capable, and compassionate young people who are ready to take on new challenges. In these last moments together, we celebrate their contributions to our school, reflect on the friendships and memories they’ve made, and encourage them to carry the values they’ve learned here into the world. Year 6, you will be missed, but we are excited to see all the wonderful things you will achieve!

Thank you for your ongoing support during this busy but exciting time. Let’s finish the term strong, united in our commitment to learning, faith, and community.

Warm regards,
Kathryn Hill

News from the Religious Coordinator

Advent

Advent is a four-week season in the Church calendar dedicated to anticipating the arrival, or "advent," of Jesus of Nazareth, the long-awaited Messiah and King. Christians from many backgrounds celebrate this time with reflections on hope, peace, love, and joy. And while their practices may look different, all focus on the hope-filled arrival of Jesus. On Sunday December 1 we begin the season of Advent. In our Catholic tradition we mark in many ways including lighting a candle for each week of Advent leading to Christmas.

Please join us on Tuesday the 3rd, 10th and 17th, at our morning assemblies at 9am, to experience the peace and joy of Advent as we await for Jesus to be born again in our hearts.

Catholic Mission Update

Thank you for your donation to the Catholic Missions Socktober appeal. As a school we raised .Year 3 raised the most amount of money and had the sock. They enjoyed a pizza lunch as a reward last Tuesday. We are grateful for the money raised as it will make such a difference to the people of

SVDP Christmas Appeal

As Christmas approaches we are getting ready to help those in our community who are less fortunate to show our love for humankind.

Thank you for those who have already contributed. It is not too late, please look at the list below and make a donation. On the 4th of December, our final day of our appeal, children are welcome to wear Christmas clothes to celebrate.

Thank you for your support!

Primary Coordinator

As we move towards the season of Advent with the coming of Jesus, and the end of the school year, we have so much to be grateful for. This fortnight in PB4L, we are focusing on Living Like Jesus through Gratitude. Jesus lived in thankfulness to God. He expressed his thanks to God publicly for the benefit of others that they too might learn to be grateful.

Gratitude is focusing on what's good in our lives and being thankful for the things we have. It is an essential life skill that helps children develop a positive outlook and build meaningful relationships. Teaching gratitude to children can set the foundation for empathy, resilience, and happiness.

Gratitude helps support social communication because it helps us understand others’ feelings, practice empathy, and learn the social power of kindness and appreciation. It also supports emotional development. Gratitude helps kids notice what makes them feel good and take time to focus on that. Gratitude is not just about being thankful; it’s about showing appreciation and returning kindness to others.

Practising Gratitude at Home and at School:

• Tell people in your life what you like about them and why you are grateful for them
• Practise giving back - volunteer as a family or donate toys, clothes, or food to those in need. Discuss how helping others makes a difference.
• Celebrate effort, not just results. This includes the perseverance and achievement of others.
• Participate in meditation/mindful activities linked with gratitude
• Keep a gratitude journal by writing 3 things a day you are grateful for each day OR use a Gratitude Jar to collect family blessings
• Cook a meal for someone in the community who needs it or visit someone who might need company/a friend
• Focus on the beauty of nature and simple joys
• Teach the difference between wants and needs. Discuss the value of things you already have and that you don’t need everything you desire to be happy.

By integrating gratitude into everyday life, parents can help children develop a habit of appreciation that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Kind regards,

Frances Courtney – Primary Coordinator

Sources: Big Life Journal and Colorado SKIES Academy Culture: Components of Social-Emotional Learning — Gratitude

Class News

Story Dogs

Recently, year 1 were lucky enough to spend some time with Leonie McGlynn and her therapy dog Ted to introduce the students to the Story Dogs program. It has been running with year 2 students for two years now. Story Dogs is a registered program which encourages a love of reading for students, particularly those students who may be hesitant about reading. Students benefit from a one to one environment and the support of a companion like Ted. Our year 1 students were excited to meet Ted and Leonie. We look forward to this program running with our students in 2025.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Teacher

Aboriginal Education 

What a wonderful couple of weeks we have had at St Joseph’s leaning about and celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Isander cultures!

I recently had the pleasure of working with both Year 1 classes on an exploration of the Dreaming of Belmont Lagoon. Students loved recapping the story of ‘When the Moon Cried’ and it was lovely to spend some time in our beautiful native resource garden called ‘Kauma Ngarra’. This name is in Awabakal language and translates to ‘Gather Together. Hear. Listen. Understand’.

Students certainly loved learning about our local Aboriginal knowledges on Awabakal Country as well as looking at our story poles, particularly the pole that tells the story of ‘When the Moon Cried’.

Significant Cultural Dates

26t^h November: Pope John Paul ll Address

Pope John Paul II addressed First Nations people in Blatherskite Park, Alice Springs on 26^th November 1986. In his ground-breaking address, Saint John Paul ll told the First Nations peoples: “Your culture, which shows the lasting genius and dignity of your race, must not be allowed to disappear.”

On the 30^th anniversary of the visit made by John Paul ll, Pope Francis sent a message of hope and blessing to Australia’s First Nations peoples. He said, “This anniversary affords me the happy opportunity to express my deep esteem for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and for your ancient cultural heritage.”

Danielle Shaw

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Teacher

GIFTED EDUCATION

Virtual Academy Showcase Day 1: Our Students Shine in Their First Year

We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible achievements of three of our students, who participated in their first year of the Virtual Academy and presented at the Showcase Day 1 exhibition yesterday at the NuSpace building in Newcastle City. These students explored the Patterns unit, which investigates how repeated structures, habits, and ideas shape human society and the natural world. Using a problem-solving process, they addressed issues of global significance, demonstrating originality and innovation.

Daniel B tackled the issue of screen addiction in Generation Alpha. Daniel explored how excessive screen time is not only causing stress for children trying to keep up with social media trends but also straining family relationships. His project emphasised the importance of balancing screen time, reducing stress, and reconnecting with loved ones. Daniel’s thought-provoking work highlighted the physical, emotional, and social implications of screen overuse and proposed ways to bridge the growing divide between families.

Lochlan O focused on industrial air pollution, with a particular emphasis on deforestation in the Amazon Basin. He delved into the harmful impacts of mining and fossil fuel use on animal habitats and air quality. Lochlan posed compelling questions about how we can reduce air pollution from large companies and protect critical ecosystems like the Amazon to prevent extinction and promote environmental health. His project encouraged attendees to think critically about the future of our planet and the role we all play in protecting it.

Isabella C addressed the pressing issue of plastic pollution on beaches. As an avid beachgoer, Isabella noticed the lack of accessible rubbish bins, leading to waste being improperly disposed of and contributing to ocean pollution. Her project emphasized the need for practical solutions, such as increasing the number of bins at popular beaches, to combat climate change and protect marine environments. Isabella’s personal connection to the issue resonated with the audience, making her message even more impactful.

These students exemplify the values of curiosity, critical thinking, and innovation. We are incredibly proud of their dedication and passion in tackling these complex issues. Congratulations to Daniel, Lochlan, and Isabella for representing our school so brilliantly and for inspiring us all to think more deeply about the patterns shaping our world. Next week Eli Smith and Luca Masters will present their learning at the Showcase Day 2 exhibition. 

Kind Regards, 

BEK HENSHAW

GIFTED EDUCATION PROJECT OFFICER, CATHOLIC SCHOOLS OFFICE

School Concert

St Joey’s Carols Concert Thursday 5th December 2024. 5.30pm 

Dear Parents and Carers, 

Each stage and class are looking forward to presenting and sharing with you, a fabulously festive Carols event. 

Students are to arrive at school at 5pm (ready for a 5.30 start) and head straight to their classroom to meet class teachers. Students will need to arrive wearing their class attire below. Parents may find a seat on tar. Please be mindful of our neighbours when parking and allow sufficient time for parking.  

*Please Note – No glass baubles, no shedding tinsel may be worn. 

If you have any costume questions, please contact you class teacher.  

Dress Information 

We hope to celebrate and see you all at our carols concert. If for some reason, your child is unable to attend, please let your class teacher know. 

Warm Regards, 

Karyn Savage 

Music Specialist Teacher 

Band

School Fees

Dear Families,

Thank you for your continued support and for the positive response to school fee payments throughout the year. We truly appreciate your cooperation.

This is a friendly reminder that there is just 5 Days remaining to complete all fee payments for the year. If you would like to set up a direct debit for next year, please find the necessary form attached. You can also begin making payments for next year, which will put you in credit. Other payment options include BPay or setting up a Direct debit from your personal account.

Please return the completed form to the school administration office.

If you are experiencing financial hardship, please do not hesitate to contact our administrative staff. We are here to offer support and assistance.

Thank you once again for being a valued part of our school community.

Amale Yi

Sport

Congratulations to Billie.

Billie competed over 3 days at the Coast & Valley Swimming Championships at Maitland. She broke the 11yrs Girls 100m backstroke record that was held since 2017 (Zara Foran ex student - 1.16.08) Billie swam 1.15.75 

Garden Group

This week in garden group the students have been enjoying the fruits of their labour.

Children have been tasting tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots and strawberries.

 Students have also been adventurous to taste and try coriander, parsley, mint, rosemary and garlic chives.

Some of our stage 3 students have been trimming and landscaping in the fairy garden, tidying up the space and making it a more enjoyable space for others.

The group have also been enjoying rock painting and adding their rocks to the fairy garden.

Year 1 students have been planting sunflower seeds, and have been excitedly watching them emerge from the soil.

Our year 5 groups are measuring and recording the growth of watermelon, cucumber, corn and onions. 

We are planning to build another scarecrow, and would gratefully receive a pair of unused over sized overalls and a flannel letter shirt to dress the scarecrow.

Many thanks, Kim McAlister

Happy Birthday!

We wish the following students a very happy birthday.

Canteen News

Kelly our Canteen Officer would love to see you if you have a spare couple of hours to assist in the canteen. Volunteers need to be registered with our CSO, by following this link: https://www.mn.catholic.org.au/people/volunteer/

Once cleared please sign up for a shift. The children love to see you here!

https://signup.zone/ZYkfNzsbws83p9yHM

Uniform Shop

Please see the information below regarding the additional shop hours at St Joseph's

Friday29 November 2024 10.00am 11.30am Kinder Orientation
Friday13 December 2024 10.00am 11.30am Kinder Orientation
Thursday 30 January 2025 8.00am10.00am Additional days
Monday 3 February 2025 10.00am 12.00pm Additional days Pupil Free Day Tuesday 4 February 2025 8.00am 10.00am Normal hours
Thursday 6 February 2025 8.00am10.00am Normal hours

OOSH

Dear parents, 

It is with great pleasure that Charlestown St Nicholas OOSH will be participating in this year's Salvation Army 'Hamper of Hope'. In this special initiative, your students can participate by bringing in non-perishable food and then each filling a bag with the food items to form a complete hamper for someone doing it tough right now. As many Australians battle the cost-of-living crisis, we can help to ease this stress for affected families. The collective impact of our combined fundraising efforts can go a long way for people doing it tough right now.

I have attached the Salvos 'food suggestions list' to help if you and your children wish to participate Hamper_of_Hope_List_2024_A4.pdf 

We will have our Hamper of Hope baskets in the front sign in area and they will be there until Wednesday 18th December (Last Day of school)."

The before and after school care at St Joseph’s is provided by St Nicholas OOSH, Diocese of Maitland Newcastle.  Open form 7am-8:30am and 3:00pm-6:00pm. 

Please contact Michelle for further information.  

MICHELLE BIRCH 
NOMINATED SUPERVISOR | ST NICHOLAS OOSH    
P 0429 435 571     M  0429 435 571   
Email michelle.birch@stnicholasmn.org.au   Visit us online www.stnicholasoosh.org.au  

Healthy Lunch Box