OUR LADY STAR OF THE SEA SCHOOL ~ NEWSLETTER 7 th

OUR LADY STAR OF THE SEA SCHOOL ~ NEWSLETTER 7th November 2014
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By tradition, the Catholic Church dedicates each month of the year to a certain devotion. In November, it is the
Holy Souls. Praying for the dead, especially for those we have known, is a requirement of Christian charity. Our
own prayers and sacrifices can be offered up.
Eternal Rest
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.
May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Amen
Dear Parents, Students, Parishioners and Friends
Learning - is what we do. We are committed to learning at every level.
PRE KINDY 2015
Pre-Kindy is an educationally play-based programme for 3 year old children and provides
children with meaningful experiences to promote the development of spiritual, social,
emotional, language, intellectual, creative and physical skills. The teachers create a
caring, safe and stimulating environment that nurture our younger children’s disposition to
wonder, explore and construct meaning about the world. Our Pre-Kindy programme will
operate on Wednesdays in 2015. If you have any further queries regarding the programme
or would like to enrol next year or for future years please contact the school office.
IMPORTANCE OF BREAKFAST (taken from website, ‘Healthy Kids – eat well, get active’)
It’s the most important meal of the day, but one in four children in Australia skips
breakfast. At school, a hungry child can lose concentration in class, have no energy for
playtime and snack on unhealthy foods, such as chips or biscuits. A calm and healthy
breakfast every day is the best defence against this happening. It also helps children to
get into good habits that they can carry through life. For more breakfast ideas from the
Healthy Kids website, see link; http://www.healthykids.nsw.gov.au/parents-carers/healthy-eating-anddrinking/importance-of- breakfast.aspx
Engagement - is essential. We are committed to Catholic Education’s mission through
positive relationships with all.
ACHIEVEMENTS
Recently we have had some very significant accolades come our way. Our school Chess
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Club won gold at the Interschool tournament on Tuesday, 28 October. Throughout the
Goldfields, the excellent work we are undertaking in ICT and that of Miss Phoebe has
been recognised and she has been asked to mentor two other schools’ staff as they aim to
improve their own digital capabilities. Other public acknowledgements have come to our
school choir and band performances, Health Program and NAPLAN results.
TERM 4
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Tuesday, 11 November
Remembrance Day
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Friday, 21 November
Clontarf Basketball (yr7 boys)
EPS Basketball (yr7 girls)
Friday, 28th November
EACS Transition Day
ESH Transition Day
Squash Tournament TBC
Sunday, 30th November
First Sunday in Advent
Tuesday, 2nd December
AGM (Hall 5:30pm)
Sunday, 7th December
Second Sunday in Advent
Monday, 8th December
Christmas Concert (Hall 6:00pm)
Tuesday, 9th December
Year 6 Graduation (Hall 6:30pm)
Wednesday, 10th December
Year 7 Graduation (Hall 6:30pm)
Friday, 12th December
Students Last Day
Sunday, 14th December
Third Sunday in Advent
UNIFORM SHOP
Open – Thursdays
8.30am-9:00am
2.30pm-3.30pm
I was also very humbled by the number of families who when asked “why they were
enrolling their children in our 3 Year Old and 4 Year Old Kindy programmes” said it was
because of our school’s excellent reputation. It is important to acknowledge the great work
being achieved here at Our Lady Star of the Sea, especially when accolades come from
outside the school. I thank all our students, staff and community members for your
continued support.
Next Board Meeting
Monday, 24/11/14
5:15 - 7:00pm
Staff Room
Accountability - is not optional. We have personal and collective responsibility for our
systems’ success.
Parents & Friends
Association
ICT
Technology at Our Lady Star of the Sea endeavours to provide all staff and students with
the skills, tools and a mindset to achieve success in a rapidly changing technological and
information rich world. We aim to develop our staff, students and parents into responsible
digital citizens who are able to interact collaboratively as members of the connected global
community. By integrating information and communication technologies into all areas of
the Australian Curriculum we aim to provide powerful and effective tools to engage
students, empower teachers and involve parents in developing lifelong learners.
Next Meeting
Monday, 24/11/14
7:00 - 8:30pm
School Library
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ICT - continued
The world we live in is not the same as it was 15, 10, 5,
even 1 year ago. This is a fact. The digital world in which
we live is changing the way children think. Children’s
brains are being altered by the audio-visual and
interactive experiences provided by the digital tools they
are exposed to from birth. Our children are neurologically
wired differently than our generation (Small and Vorgon,
2008). Their cognitive structures process information in a
parallel or simultaneous manner, not sequentially like
ours. This has been confirmed by research. It is our job
as educators to prepare in the world they live in.
We began to research and investigate the benefits of
iPads as our technology of choice several years ago. This
research has involved references to national and
international studies, visits to other schools that have
been successful in implementing iPad programs, and
access to and guidance from ICT Learning Technologies
consultants at the Catholic Education Office. In 2013 we
increased our school’s number of iPads for students to
access and during 2014 we committed to a Bring Your
Own Devise (BYOD) programme to roll out in 2015.
We have also provided effective teacher up-skilling for the
technology being used. It is important to note that
technology use in the classroom is neither a substitute,
nor a replacement. It is a tool that can be used which
allows for learning outcomes to be achieved in ways not
previously possible.
Discipleship - is our calling. We are committed to
deepening our relationship with Jesus.
SACRAMENTAL PROGRAMME
Congratulations to all the children who participated in the
‘Reconciliation Sacramental Programme’. Reconciliation
is a wonderful Sacrament that helps us all keep a loving
and tender relationship with God. All of our Sacramental
Programmes for 2014 are now complete. Thank you to
Father Marian, Sister Angela and all school staff and
parishioners for their support of our children.
WORLD TEACHERS DAY
On Friday, 31st October we celebrated ‘World Teachers
Day’ recognising the important role of our teachers.
In our Mandate, the Bishops of WA ascribe special
responsibilities to those who work in Catholic schools to
“appreciate the Catholic Vision of the human person and
to integrate Faith, culture and life in all they do”.
Pope Francis sums up the role; “Do not be disheartened
in the face of the difficulties that the education challenge
presents. Educating is not a profession but an attitude, a
way of being; in order to educate it is necessary to step
out of ourselves and be among young people, to
accompany them in the stages of their growth and to set
ourselves beside them. Give them hope and optimism for
their journey in the world. Teach them to see the beauty
and goodness of creation and of man who always retains
the Creator’s hallmark. But above all with your life be
witnesses of what you communicate. Educators pass on
knowledge and values with their words, but their words
will have an incisive effect on children and young people if
they are accompanied by their witness, their consistent
way of life. Without consistency, it is impossible to
educate! You are all educators, there are no delegates in
this field”.
ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL’S CORNER
Remembrance Day
Remembrance Day marks the anniversary of the
armistice which ended the First World War (19141918). Each year Australians observe one minute
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silence at 11:00am on 11 November, in memory for
those who died or suffered in all wards and armed
conflicts.
Our Year One students will lead a Remembrance Day
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service in the school hall on Tuesday, 11 November,
commencing at 11:15am. You are welcome to attend
this event as we take time to stop and reflect.
NQS
Our Early Childhood Staff continues their good work
reflecting and documenting evidence in relation to the
National Quality Standards. This fortnight, staff are
investigating Element 1.2.1 – Each child’s learning and
development is assessed as part of an ongoing cycle
of planning, documentation and evaluation. You would
see this in your child’s classroom when staff observe
and record children’s learning and behaviour to inform
their educational planning. Anecdotal records or a
running record of a child’s reading would be examples
of staff’s current good practice that drives their future
planning.
Peter O’Mara
Assistant Principal
I wish to add my personal thank you to all the wonderful
staff at Our Lady Star of the Sea. They are exceptional
educators, masters of their craft, reflective in all they do,
enthusiastic and always striving for excellence in them
and for their students.
“Do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for
itself. Let the day's own trouble be sufficient for the day.”
Jesus Christ
God Bless
Sheldon Carey
Principal
S C H O O L
N O T I C E S
PASTORAL CARE
Please keep in your prayers all those in our school
community who may be suffering from ongoing illnesses
or who are currently unwell.
Sheldon Carey
Principal
AGM
Parents and friends of OLSOTS are asked to show
support and appreciation with attendance at our school
AGM on Tuesday, 2nd December 2014 at 5:30pm –
School Hall.
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2015 School Year
If you know that your child/children will not be
attending Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic
Primary School in 2015, please complete this form
and return to the school office ASAP.
Child’s name: ___________________________
Class 2014: ____________________________
Child’s name: ___________________________
ACTIVE AFTER SCHOOL SPORTS
It is with regret that Our Lady Star of
the Sea will be unable to provide
AASS in the first semester of 2015
due to funding cuts made by the
st
Australian Government from 31
December 2014.
The Australian Sports Commission
plans to reinvigorate the program
‘Sporting Schools’ and will be take
grant applications in May 2015. It is with hope OLSOTS
may be able to re-offer AASS in the second Semester of
2015.
Class 2014: ______________________________
Name of destination school: ________________
_____________________________________Or
unknown at this stage (circle)
Parent/Guardian:_________________________
Signed: _______________________________
Dated:_________________________________
IT Open Afternoon
On Thursday the 23rd of October, several students from
Years 5, 6 and 7 hosted an IT Open Afternoon.
Parents of the current Year 3 and 4 students were invited
along to see how the students have been using iPads in
the classrooms, as their children will be in the 1:1 iPad
classes next year.
Various Apps and features of the iPads were showcased
such as; Pic Collage, Aurasma, iMovie, Green Screen by
Doo Ink and Audio Boom. Using Apple TV, airplay and
airdrop, QR Codes, class blogs and the importance of
digital citizenship were also featured.
The students did a wonderful job at explaining their
learning and explaining through demonstration, why/how
they think the iPad is a beneficial tool in the class. A big
thank you to the students who presented and the parents
who attended!
UNIFORM SHOP
Overstocked Uniform Sale
Long Grey Winter Trousers – normally $28 - now $14
School Sports Jumper with logo on the front - now $5.00
Winter Zip-up Jacket – normally $30 - now $15
Sport Track pants – normally $30 - now $15
Sport Polo Shirts – normally $25 - now $15
Sport Shorts – normally $14 - now $10
Sports Socks – normally $7 - now $5
Large School bags – normally $50 - now $25
For more information please visit the Australian Sports
Commission website on www.ausport.gov.au
LOST/FOUND
Found
1 x silver round bezel set cubic zirconia earring; in the
lower primary wet area.
Found
1 x red Nintendo 3DS with adaptor; in the planter box
near school entrance.
Lost
1 x silver belcher ring bracelet, filigree heart padlock and
with pink ballet slippers charm (green turtle charm found
separately).
Please see Anita or Natalie in the Administration Office to
claim your lost item(s) or hand in any found items.
Congratulations to the following
MERIT AWARD
winners
Kindy : Abella Gorail, Mali Mellors &
Annabelle Reid
Pre Primary : Ty McPherson
Year 1 : Hudson Gairen, Nelson Gerschwitz,
Sean Kirwan & Eden McPherson
Year 2 : Lenox Lister & Jarrod Williams
Year 3 : Talon Bannear & Ivy Martin
Year 4 : Jordan Cole
Year 5 : Jack Doyle, Tagen Jones &
Klay Mastaglia
Year 6 : Hayden Mortimer, Fraser Randall &
Madeline Wilson
Year 7 : Georgia Bairstow, Cooper Kennedy,
Lachlan Newman & Holly Panizza,
I M P O R T A N T
R E M I N D E R S
SCHOOL DAY
School begins at 8.45am and finishes at 3pm
Classrooms are open at 8.30am
Duty of Care begins at 8.30am and finishes at 3.10pm
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I M P O R T A N T
R E M I N D E R S
SCHOOL PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT AFTER HOURS
The school is considered private property and as the
Principal of the school, Mr Sheldon Carey, is responsible
for the welfare of any person on school premises. Under
our public liability insurance, there is a duty of care to
provide a safe environment. If the school foresees
possible problems, or potential claims, it is a condition
under our Public liability policy to take “reasonable care
and precautions to prevent personal injury and/or property
damage”
If this reasoning is applied to the use of our playground
equipment outside school hours, there is a cause for
concern. No child is allowed to play on school
playground equipment outside school hours, even if
parents or guardians are present.
A C T I V I T I E S / P R O M O S
WORKING out difficult words
It is important to give your child time and strategies to
read or write any long or unfamiliar words. Before telling
your child the word when he or she is reading, try these
prompts:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Look for clues for the word’s meaning in the
sentence.
Look at the word closely. Does it look like another
word you know?
Can you break the word down into smaller parts?
Do the words before and after this word help?
Before spelling a word for your child when he or she
is writing, try asking:
Does it look right?
Does it sound right?
Most of our school rules are in fact devised to ensure the
safety of your children. So I implore you all to please
make certain you follow these rules to help ensure your
children are safe. The school takes reasonable care and
precautions but we need full parental support. So do not
let your children play on the equipment before or after
school as staff is not on duty to supervise.
CANTEEN ROSTER
Term 4 2014
Week
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
5
12/11/2014
13/11/2014 Monique Knox
14/11/2014 Carol Martin
6
19/11/2014 Lillian Allison
20/11/2014 Fiona Shillington
21/11/2014 Clare Bairstow
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26/11/2014 Natalie Kayser
27/11/2014 Anne Dwyer
28/11/2014
8
3/12/2014 Mick Martin
4/12/2014 Jo Staines
5/12/2014 Linda Tobin
9
10/12/2014 Matt Shillington
11/12/2014 Ainslie Wildberger
12/12/2014 Jennene Riggs
10
17/12/2014 Student Free Day
18/12/2014 Student Free Day
19/12/2014 Student Free Day
Could all canteen helpers please ensure that you are available for the day you are rostered. You will need to present to the canteen by 9:00am to help with
the food preparation. If you need to change your day please contact the School Office on 9071 5195 or arrange with another person to swap with you, then
advise of the amendments. If you would like to be included in the Canteen Roster please contact the School Office and advise which days are best suited.
Thank you Nola Nicoll, Canteen Manager
P A R I S H
N O T I C E S
Parish Council AGM
Wednesday, 3rd December at 7:00pm
In the Church Overflow
Christmas Luncheon
Sunday, 7th December (after 9:00am mass)
In the Parish Hall
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NOTICES FOR LOCAL SERVICES
CANNERY
What’s happening at the Cannery… Esperance Patchwork Exhibition, 3rd October - 14th November ANZAC Centenary Exhibition, 20th November - 7th
November The Cannery Biennale 9 x 5. Exhibition and Auction Open Day at The Cannery: Saturday 22nd November. For further information contact Karen
on phone (08) 9071 3599 or email [email protected]
VOLLEYBALL
In the lead up to summer season Esperance Volleyball Association will be running free skill development clinics aimed at engaging new participants in their
sports. All sessions are inclusive, with people of all abilities and backgrounds being encouraged to attend. These clinics are a great way to learn more
about the sport in a fun and safe environment, ahead of summer seasons commencing in fourth term. Poster attached with further information. To register
email [email protected].
ESPERANCE TENNIS CLUB
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Junior pennants Spring 2014 (4 term) on Saturday mornings. Age 8+ The club will be open to new players, grading and taking registrations on Saturday
the 25th October 2014. To register your name for pennants please contact the Junior Pennant Coordinator Dave Greatrex on Mobile:0418 838 379 via text
or email: [email protected] to secure your place. Have A Go: For new players, come and see our club and facilities and try your hand at tennis.
Rackets & balls will be provided. Discuss the options with our friendly volunteers.
ESPERANCE JUNIOR CRICKET
Registrations are still open!!! Go to playcricket.com.au and type in your postcode and follow the links to register your child this coming season. Esperance
Junior Cricket has in2cricket(5-7year olds) T20 Blast (8-10 year olds) U13 & U16 grades so plenty of options for both boys and girls this season. Contact:
Jo Harris 0417 911 058 email: [email protected] or the following program co-ordinators James Ramsell in2cricket 0427 553 988 Shane
Tobin T20 Blast: 0418 557 397 Trevor Ayres U13’s: 0431 944 079 Gavin Harris U16’s: 0428 933 513
WOMENS SOCCER
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Women's Soccer Competition – Free Come and Try / Have a Go Day. 14 + welcome and no experience necessary. Just good fun for the girls. Sunday 9
November at 4.00pm - Little Lords Soccer Field. Contact Stacey Thomas on 0422 152 452 or Carole Pearson on 0405 714 881 or find us on facebook at
Esperance Senior Soccer or the Community page.
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITY
There is now less than a month until International Day of People with Disability but you still have time to register an
rd
event. Events can be registered right up to 3 December but if you want our free promotional products, make sure you
have signed up before 18 November. The process is easy: simply head to http://www.idpwd.com.au/3december/event-registration/ fill out the form and you’re done. Stuck for ideas on what sort of event you want to hold?
The IDPwD team have you sorted - head to http://www.idpwd.com.au/3-december/planning-your-event/ for event
ideas, promotion and much more.
SCHOOLKIDS BONUS
Centrelink is able to provide financial assistance towards education costs to eligible families.
Important Update
Legislation has passed to phase out Schoolkids Bonus payments. The Schoolkids Bonus will continue until the end of 2016. This will allow families time to
adjust to the change. The last instalment will be paid in July 2016. The legislative change introduces an income test starting on 1 January 2015.
Eligibility basics
•
a parent or carer receiving Family Tax Benefit Part A for a dependent child in primary or secondary education
•
a primary or secondary student turning 19 years or younger in the calendar year, who receives certain government payments
•
satisfy an income test (applicable from 1 January 2015)
Payment rates for the Schoolkids Bonus
From 1 January 2015, eligible families will receive Schoolkids Bonus in:
•
2 instalments of $211 for each child in primary school - a total of $422 each year
•
2 instalments of $421 for each child in secondary school - a total of $842 each year
If you share the care of your child with another person, you will receive a percentage of this payment based on the percentage of Family Tax Benefit you
receive for the child. This information is intended only as a guide. For further information, eligibility criteria and application details contact the Department of
Human Services on 136 150 or visit http://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/services/schoolkids-bonus
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