St Laurence's Catholic Primary School Dubbo eNewsletter

Principal's Messages

LAURIES GOT TALENT LIGHTS UP THE STAGE

The annual Laurie’s Got Talent has once again captured the hearts of our school community. This cherished tradition, coordinated by our Year 6 students, showcases the talents of our students across a range of performing arts, including singing, dancing, acting, and instrumental performances.

More than just a showcase of performances, this event highlights the supportive and inclusive spirit of our school. Students cheer each other on, creating an environment where courage and creativity are celebrated. Laurie’s Got Talent transforms our school into a vibrant stage, where every performer is encouraged to shine and grow in confidence.

Marking the culmination of another academic year, Laurie’s Got Talent is a heartwarming reminder of the remarkable abilities of our students and the joy of coming together as a community. We look forward to continuing this spectacular tradition in the years to come!

VOLUNTEERS THANK YOU & END OF YEAR GRADUATION MASS

Our school community came together in a spirit of gratitude and celebration for our End of Year Graduation Mass. This special event marked the conclusion of another successful school year and provided an opportunity to acknowledge the dedication of our volunteers, whose unwavering support enriches every aspect of school life.

The Mass also celebrated a significant milestone for our Year 6 students. As they prepare to transition to the next chapter of their educational journey, we reflect on the remarkable growth they have shown during their time at St Laurence’s. From their first days at our school to becoming confident, capable, and wise young individuals, their journey has been inspiring to witness. We are immensely proud of them and extend our heartfelt congratulations to each Year 6 student. We wish them every blessing as they embrace new challenges and opportunities in the years ahead.

We were also delighted to welcome Rhonda Gleeson from St Vincent de Paul, who graciously accepted the Christmas hampers donated by our school community. In her address, Rhonda shared how fondly the Dubbo branch of St Vincent de Paul regards St Laurence’s for its outstanding charity work each year. She spoke about the creative and thoughtful ways our students give back to the community, from collecting bottles to raise funds for swags for the homeless, creating and donating personal hygiene packs, and raising money for the Winter Appeal, to completing chores at home to purchase toasters and kettles for new housing tenants. Rhonda’s words were a touching reminder of the incredible impact of our collective efforts and the difference our students make in the lives of others.

To our volunteers, thank you for your selfless contributions that make our school a vibrant and nurturing community. Your generosity of time and effort has helped make this year truly special.

YEAR 6 GRADUATION DINNER

Our Year 6 students, families, and staff gathered for a night to remember at the Year 6 Graduation Dinner, celebrating the students' incredible seven-year journey through primary school. The evening was filled with laughter, joy, and heartfelt moments as we marked this significant milestone in true style.

The neon theme transformed the venue into a vibrant, glowing wonderland. Black lights, neon decorations, glow sticks, and a 360-degree photo booth created an unforgettable atmosphere. Adding to the fun, students and families enjoyed a special lolly bar, a visit from Dippin’ Dots, and a stunning graduation cake made by Keira Job.

This spectacular event was made possible by the dedication and hard work of our Year 6 parent committee and Mr Long. Their efforts in organising every detail of the evening ensured it was a celebration to remember.

The night was filled with fun, laughter, and shared memories that our Year 6 students will cherish forever as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their educational journey.

TERM 4 CATHERINE MCAULEY AWARDS

We gathered last Friday for our last assembly for the term to give out the Catherine McAuley Awards. The recipients were recognised for the way in which they live out the values that are central to our beliefs as Catholics. Catherine McAuley founded the Mercy Sisters, who then, so very generously, endeavoured to live out their lives by enriching the lives of many. Our school was founded by the Mercy Sisters. The Catherine McAuley awards enable us to recognise and highlight the link between the works of the Mercy Sisters and Catherine McAuley and the words and actions of our students. The students were recognised for the way they care for others and are inclusive and sensitive to the needs of those around them. It was wonderful to listen to the accolades shared by their teacher regarding each individual student. It is important that we respond and celebrate as a school community the wonderful gifts that each of these students have and acknowledge how they enrich our school community.

Congratulations to the following students who received the Catherine McAuley awards last Friday:

Kinder - Hugh W
Year 1 - Luisa A
Year 2 - Ida E
Year 3 - Kodah N
Year 4 - Charlie C
Year 5 - Darcy T
Year 6 - Ned C

CEDB SPORTS AWARDEES

Students from Years 3-6 were recognised with awards from the Diocesan Sports Council at our last assembly for the year. These students should be very proud of their recognition, not only as sporting representatives for our Diocese, but also for the recognition of their fair play and team sportsmanship.

Congratulations to:

Aussie S - Athletics and Basketball
Lawson G - Swimming, Cross Country and Athletics
Kortlyn F - Swimming
Chandon T - Rugby League
Ted C - Athletics
Jasper Mc - Athletics and Rugby Union
Lachlan T - Rugby Union
Archie W - Tennis
Oscar M - Cross Country

PREMIERS READING CHALLENGE AWARDS

Once again it was wonderful to see so many of our students participate in the Premiers Reading Challenge this year. A big thank you to all our parents who encourage and support their children in this process. Congratulations to the students who received their certificate at our school assembly, and well done to the students who received Gold and Platinum Awards for their ongoing commitment.

PLATINUM AWARDEES (7 consecutive years)
Lexi M and Harry B

GOLD AWARDEES (4 consecutive years)
Brianna P

ICAS, MATHS & NAIDOC COMPETITION AWARDEES

We would like to extend a big congratulations to our exceptional students who excelled in a range of prestigious competitions this year, including the ICAS, Christmas Art Storytelling Competition, Koori Kids NAIDOC Competition, Newcastle Permanent Maths Competition, Kangourou Sans Frontières, and the Australian Maths Competition.

These remarkable achievements are a testament to the dedication, hard work, and academic excellence of our students. We are incredibly proud of all those who took on these challenges, and we celebrate the commitment and perseverance they demonstrated.

A special congratulations goes to those students who received well-deserved recognition in their respective Key Learning Areas. Their success reflects not only their individual talents but also the strong support and encouragement they receive from teachers, families, and peers. Well done to everyone who participated – we look forward to seeing even more achievements in the future!

I am pleased to share some important staffing updates as we prepare for the 2025 school year.

Firstly, our school has been granted a new 0.6 FTE (3 days/week) EALD Teaching position by CEDB, and I am delighted to announce that Mrs. Gemma Masters has been appointed to this role. Gemma brings a wealth of knowledge and a strong commitment to student achievement. In this role, she will focus on supporting our EALD students to thrive and reach their full potential.

Additionally, Mr. Jack Inglis has been appointed to a 1.0 FTE (full time) permanent Classroom Teacher position. Jack has been a valued member of our school community this year, and we are excited to welcome him to the staff in a permanent capacity.

These appointments reflect our school’s dedication to providing high-quality teaching and learning for all students.

SEMESTER TWO STUDENT REPORTS

Semester Two Student Reports will be published to parents today, before the close of school. It has been a pleasure to read through the reports and see the significant growth in both learning and maturity across the year. Our students have made remarkable progress, and we are incredibly proud of their achievements.

Along with the Semester Reports, teachers will also be sending home the latest DIBELS student reports. These provide the most recent results for reading, offering valuable insights into each student’s progress.

To help you understand how to read the DIBELS reports, we have included a link to a video that explains the key elements of the report. We encourage you to watch it, as it will help you better interpret the information and support your child’s learning journey.

We look forward to continuing our partnership with you in fostering our students’ growth and success.

DIBELS REPORTS - PARENT EXPLANATION VIDEOS

MY SCHOOL WEBSITE UPDATED FOR 2024

Parents, carers and school communities can now access clear and transparent information on every Australian school on the My School website.

You are able to review student enrolment numbers and attendance rates, information from the principal, staff numbers, NAPLAN results, and financial information, such as funding levels and sources. ACARA's My School provides information that helps parents/carers and the community understand the performance of schools over time.
You are able to find out more about schools in your area on the My School website.

UPCOMING EVENTS TO CELEBRATE THE END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR

As we approach the end of the school year, there are several exciting events lined up to celebrate the achievements and memories of our students.

Year 6 Pool Day
Year 6 kicked off their celebrations with a refreshing day at the pool today. What better way to enjoy a hot day! The students had a fantastic time, starting with tennis at Paramount Tennis Club, with a special thanks to Brad Williams for helping as a parent coach. Afterward, they had fun on the pool slide and cooled off in the water, making it a perfect day of relaxation and enjoyment.

Class Parties and Movie Treats
On Monday and Tuesday, students from Kindergarten to Year 5 will enjoy a movie and an ice cream treat in their classrooms as part of their end-of-year celebrations.

Class Up Day
On Tuesday at 11:15am, students will take part in Class Up Day, where they will visit their new classroom for 2025. This is an opportunity for them to meet their new teacher and get a sneak peek at what lies ahead in the new school year.

P&F End of Year BBQ and Christmas Carols
On Tuesday evening, we invite all families to join us for the P&F End of Year BBQ and Christmas Carols at 6pm. It’s a great chance to relax and socialise in a friendly, festive atmosphere. Students will begin the evening by singing some Christmas carols in the Hall, and we encourage them to wear Christmas-themed outfits for the occasion. Please bring your own refreshments, as it will be a hot day, though some bottled water will be provided. A big thank you to the parents who have volunteered to help with the BBQ.

Year 6 Tunnel
Finally, we will finish the term with the beloved Year 6 Tunnel on Wednesday at 2:30pm. This long-standing tradition is always a highlight, giving both students and staff a chance to say a heartfelt farewell to the Year 6 students as they move on to the next chapter of their educational journey.

It’s set to be a week full of fun, celebration, and fond memories as we close out the school year. We look forward to seeing you at these wonderful events!

STAY SAFE: SCHOOL ZONES REMAIN ACTIVE UNTIL THE HOLIDAYS

A reminder to all our parents ahead of the school holidays that school zones remain in place for the safety of our children and families. School zones operate on all gazetted school days, which are all days the school is open, even pupil free days.

School zones for our school will end on Friday 20th December and resume on Friday 31st January.

150 & 300 NIGHTS OF READING SUPERSTARS

More students happy to be checking off 150 and 300 nights of home reading last week! We love celebrating reading at St Laurence's and encourage our students to develop a love and enthusiasm for reading. When students achieve 100, 150, 200, 250 and 300 nights of Home Reading they are rewarded with a special book prize from my Book Box.

WISHING OUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR

As we come to the close of another wonderful year at St Laurence's School, we would like to take a moment to extend our warmest wishes to all of our families. We hope you enjoy a peaceful and joyful Christmas, filled with love, laughter, and special moments with loved ones.

We also wish you all the very best for the New Year and look forward to welcoming you back in February, ready to embark on another year of learning and growth together.

Thank you for your continued support throughout the year. May the holiday season bring you happiness and rejuvenation. See you in 2025!

Religious Education

**Alicia O'Connor -** **RE Coordinator**

Gospel Focus

Why should I be honoured with a visit from the mother of my Lord?
In Luke 1:39-45, we witness the beautiful meeting of Mary and Elizabeth, two women chosen by God for extraordinary roles in His plan. Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, recognises Mary as the mother of her Lord and blesses her for her faith. This encounter reminds us of the joy that comes from recognising God's work in each other and sharing our faith with one another. As we approach Christmas, may we, like Mary and Elizabeth, open our hearts to God’s presence and celebrate the blessings He brings through the people around us. Let us carry this joy and encouragement into our community, always ready to uplift and support one another. May the joy of Christmas fill your homes and your hearts, and may the example of the Holy Family inspire us to live with faith, kindness, and compassion.

Wishing you and your families a blessed and joyful Christmas.

Save The Dates: 2025

Week 3	St Laurence's Opening School Mass *(Wednesday 19th February @ 9:30 am to be held at St Laurence's Church)*
Week 5	Ash Wednesday Mass *(Wednesday 5th March @ 12 noon to be held at St Laurence's Church)*
Week 7	Harmony Day Mass *(Friday 21st March @ 12 noon to be held at St Laurence's Church)*
Week 9	Whole School Meet 4 Mass and Parish Picnic/ Altar Server Training *(Sunday 6th April @ 9 am to be held at St Brigid's Church)*
Term 1	More dates to come in 2025

MASS TIMES:

St. Brigid’s Weekend Masses: Saturday - 6.00pm (1 September to 30 April) or 5.00pm (1 May to 31 August),

Sunday - 9:00am and Sunday - 6:00pm.

St. Brigid’s Weekday Masses: Tuesday & Thursday - 5.45pm

St. Laurence’s Church Masses: Sunday - 7:30am, Monday -12.00pm, Wednesday - 9:30am, Friday- 12:00pm

Parish website and bulletin

Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL)

As part of our ongoing commitment to Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) each class spends time reviewing and learning about the expectations in specific areas. The focus can be developed from feedback and data. This week our focus is safe in all settings.

Being safe in all settings means: