Term 1 Week 7 Newsletter 2025

Principal's Messages

STORYTELLING AND RECONCILIATION: A SPECIAL VISIT FROM ANITA HEISS

Our Year 6 students recently had the incredible opportunity to take part in a writing workshop with Anita Heiss, an accomplished author and proud Wiradjuri woman. Drawing inspiration from her picture book Bidhi Galing, Anita guided students in exploring the significance of Reconciliation and the historic walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

This powerful and thought-provoking experience deepened our students’ understanding of Australia’s history and the importance of walking together toward a shared future. Through storytelling, they reflected on the past, acknowledged its impact, and considered how they can contribute to a more united and inclusive society. We are grateful to Anita for sharing her wisdom and inspiring our young writers.

The following report was written by Year 6 students, Ruby Graham, our Public Relations Minister, Tilly Dowell, our Public Relations Deputy Minister, and Kate Willner. It provides an insight into the recent workshop with Anita Heiss:

Exploring Storytelling and Culture with Anita Heiss

by Ruby Graham, Tilly Dowell and Kate Willner

On Tuesday, 11th March, the Year 6 students participated in a workshop with Anita Heiss, an Aboriginal author. Anita taught us how to make our stories more emotional so that readers can really feel what’s happening and better understand the story.

We also played a fun game where we had to share our favourite word and then use those words in a story. Some of the words we used were really fun, like supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, pizza, sushi, yindyamarra (which means respect), and ayubowan (which means morning). It was a cool way to get creative with our writing!

We read a story called Bidhi Galing, which is about how Yaari tried to warn people that they were building on land that could flood. He told them that if they kept building there, the water would eventually cover everything. But the people didn’t listen, and, just like Yaari said, the land flooded. Jacky Jacky and Yaari helped save everyone, and for their bravery, they received medals. After that, we got to draw a picture of the river or even the medals. It was fun!

We also learned some new words in Aboriginal language, which was really interesting. Then, we looked at an Aboriginal map to see which land we’re on, and we’re on Wiradjuri land!

Thank you so much for coming, Anita! We had a great time with the activities, and it was awesome to have you with us. We hope you enjoyed it as much as we did!

JOIN US FOR THE P&F TERM 1 MEETING

Our first Parents & Friends Association (P&F) Meeting for the year will be held via Zoom on Tuesday, March 18th, at 6:30pm. The Zoom link will be shared via Compass. We invite all parents and carers to join us for this important meeting.

Being involved in the P&F Association is a fantastic way to stay connected with the school community and contribute to shaping the experiences of your children. Your participation helps support school initiatives, events, and resources that directly benefit your child’s education. It is also a great opportunity to meet other parents, share ideas, and have a voice in decisions that impact the school.

We encourage everyone to join us, whether you’re a regular attendee or new to the P&F. Your involvement - big or small - makes a difference. We look forward to seeing you online!

ALTAR SERVER TRAINING – A VALUABLE LEARNING EXPERIENCE

Fr Nam recently took interested students from Years 3 to 6, along with the Religion SRC members, for altar server training in the church. This was a wonderful opportunity for the children to deepen their understanding of the important role of altar servers in the celebration of the Mass. The students found the experience highly valuable, asking many thoughtful questions and gaining insights into the significance of their responsibilities.

During their time in the church, the children explored the sacristy and learned about the various tasks that priests and altar servers complete before, during, and after Mass. They were able to see firsthand how everything is prepared and organised, reinforcing the importance of reverence, commitment, and service in this ministry.

We are very grateful to Fr Nam for taking the time to work with our students and share his knowledge in such an engaging and meaningful way. A special thank you also to Alicia O’Connor, our Religious Education Coordinator, for accompanying the students and supporting them in this training. It was a truly enriching experience for all involved, and we look forward to seeing some of our students take on this role in the future.

HARMONY DAY CELEBRATIONS THIS FRIDAY

Harmony Day is a special time to celebrate the many cultures that make up our community and to reflect on the importance of kindness and respect for all. It reminds us that no matter where we come from or what language we speak, everyone belongs.

On Harmony Day, we come together to recognise that while we may have different traditions, ideas, and ways of doing things, we can still be friends, learn from one another, and show respect. We don’t have to think the same way, but we can listen to others with open hearts and be kind, even when our perspectives differ.

At our school, we live with HOPE, believing in a future where everyone feels welcome, valued, and included. In the Bible, we are reminded that God loves and cares for everyone, and we are called to do the same. As we celebrate Harmony Day this Friday, let us pray for the strength to follow God’s example - to be kind, to welcome others, and to bring harmony and hope into our friendships, our school, and our world.

ENSURING SAFE AND SUPERVISED DROP-OFF AND PICK-UP

Jubilee St and Fitzroy St are our preferred drop-off areas because they are the safest options. Some students enter the school via the car park, as this is where the bus drops them off, and students who walk to school also use this entrance. At the end of the day, teachers escort up to 30 students to buses and across Tamworth St.

If you are picking up your child from school, you must collect them from the assembly area at bell time. After the bell, any remaining students will be waiting on the seat outside Year 3 under the verandah. Please do not ask your child to wait in another area outside the COLA, as these areas are not supervised by teachers and are therefore not safe.

MOBILE PHONES AND SMARTWATCHES AT SCHOOL

Mobile phones are not permitted for student use at school. If a mobile phone is deemed necessary for a child, parents must contact the principal to discuss how this can be managed. Approval is required for a student to bring a mobile phone to school, and if granted, the phone must be handed in to the office before school and collected at the end of the day.

Smartwatches with messaging capabilities are also not allowed, as they can be a distraction. If parents need to send a message to their child during the school day, they should phone the front office, and we will pass it on.

Thank you for your cooperation.

THE HIDDEN PRESSURES OF ONLINE GAMES AND APPS: WHAT PARENTS NEED TO KNOW

WHAT?

Brands are increasingly using pressure tactics to keep users engaged. One of the most well-known examples is Duolingo’s owl, which has become a meme due to its relentless reminders to complete lessons. Recently, the company took this a step further, announcing that Duo the owl "probably died waiting for you to do your lesson."

The pressure to engage with apps is growing. Features like Snapchat Streaks, a similar streak-based system being tested for TikTok, and even potential virtual pets (similar to Tamagotchis) in Instagram are all designed to keep users coming back.

NOW WHAT?

While these pressures might seem harmless or even funny, they can be highly persuasive—especially when they’re tied to social connections.

• Ask kids if they ever feel pressured to respond to notifications, open an app, or maintain a streak.
• Discuss why these features feel important, even when we logically know they aren’t.
• Encourage steps to protect well-being, such as setting screen time limits or turning off non-essential notifications.

TINY TRENDS

A new challenge is emerging where users test their pain tolerance online, such as dropping heavy objects on themselves (#droppingheavythingsonmyfeet). Stay informed and use our online safety tips to help kids navigate risky trends.

ATTENDANCE MATTERS: THE IMPORTANCE OF ATTENDING SCHOOL EVERY DAY

Regular attendance is essential for students to fully engage in their learning and maintain continuity in their education. Families are encouraged to schedule holidays during school breaks to ensure students are present for the entire school term, from the first day to the last. While we understand that some absences may be unavoidable, it is important for parents to communicate with the school regarding any planned leave and follow the school's attendance policies.

If a student does need to be absent, working closely with teachers to catch up on missed learning can help minimise any disruption to their progress. Additionally, following school procedures for any missed assessments ensures that students remain on track with their academic responsibilities. By prioritising attendance, we can support the best possible learning outcomes for all students.

MOORAMBILLA WORKSHOPS - FOLLOW UP

Recently, we had the great pleasure of hosting Moorambilla Voices for a music workshop as part of their 2025 Skills Development Tour. This nationally-awarded program provides regional students with an extraordinary opportunity to sing, dance and create incredible performances and tours across Australia.  

Between February and March, Moorambilla will deliver workshops across regional NSW to over 3,500 children from Years 3-12, from Armatree to Yoogali and Cobar to Wee Waa and everywhere in between. During the recent workshop, our students engaged with Artistic Director Michelle Leonard OAM, learning about music through fun, joyful, collaborative and creative activities.

Some students will soon receive invitations to attend Moorambilla’s August and September Residency Camps in Baradine where they will create works which connect to their community and the landscape with world-class musicians, performers, composers, choreographers and visual artists. The Residency Camps will culminate in spectacular gala performances (location TBC) on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 September, to which family, friends and communities are invited to attend. If your child receives an invitation to attend a Residency Camp, they will receive their letter of offer in April.  

For more information about Moorambilla Voices, visit moorambillavoices.com 

For students who were unable to attend the workshop: If you believe your child was not able to participate to their full capacity or were not in attendance, please click here to be provided with all instructions required for a Singing Selfie submission. We want all children from the region to have the opportunity to be involved in Moorambilla Voices' programs. 

Letter of Offers: In April, the Moorambilla team will contact you with letters of offer for you that we will distribute to students on their behalf. Throughout the workshops, these students have demonstrated an enthusiasm, intellect, talent and capacity to thrive in Moorambilla’s August and September Residency Camps (dates below). 

Program Dates: 

August Residency Camp Dates in Baradine 

10 - 12 Aug               Birralii (Year 3-4) Residency Camp in Baradine 

13 - 17 Aug               MAXed OUT Company (Year 7-12) Residency Camp in Baradine 

18 - 21 Aug               Birray (Year 4-6 Boys) Residency Camp in Baradine 

21 - 24 Aug               Mirray (Year 4-6 Girls) Residency Camp in Baradine 

September Residency Camp Dates in Baradine 

23 - 26 Sept MAXed OUT Company Residency Camp in Baradine 

24 - 26 Sept Birray / Mirray Residency Camp in Baradine 

25 - 26 Sept Birralii Residency Camp in Baradine  

September Gala Performances – location TBC 

27 Sept Concert – location TBC 

28 Sept Concert – location TBC  

Program Fee: Moorambilla subsidise all children’s participation by 80%, reducing the program registration fee to $880 per candidate. They appreciate that not all children/families will be able to afford the $880 registration fee so they will work with families, schools and communities to ensure that children can access the program. 

Religious Education

Gospel Focus

St. Patrick’s Day Prayer

Today is St. Patrick’s Day, a special time to celebrate the life and faith of St. Patrick, who spread God’s love and light to many.

Loving God,

We thank You for St. Patrick’s courage and faith. May we follow his example, trusting in Your presence, sharing kindness, and walking in Your ways. Bless us with strength and wisdom to shine Your light in the world.

Amen. ☘️

Harmony Day

This Friday is Harmony Day. Harmony Day is celebrated in Australian schools on March 21st each year. It’s a special day to promote inclusivity, respect, and a sense of belonging for all Australians, regardless of cultural or linguistic background. The theme is often "Everyone Belongs."

Term 1 Events

Third Sunday of Lent

As we journey through Lent, the Gospel this Sunday reminds us of Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:5-42). Jesus offers her "living water," a gift far greater than anything she had sought before. This story invites us to reflect on what truly satisfies our hearts. Do we chase after things that leave us empty, or do we seek the love and truth of Christ? Lent is a time to turn back to God, to open our hearts to His grace, and to let His living water refresh our souls. May we use this season to grow in faith, kindness, and love, always remembering that Jesus meets us where we are and calls us to something greater.

PROJECT COMPASSION

This Lent, our school has the opportunity to support vulnerable communities around the world, including children like Toefuata'iga (Toy-foo-ah-tah-ing-ah) from Samoa, whose life has been transformed through the generosity of schools like ours! 

You can watch Toefuata'iga’s story with here:

MASS TIMES: St. Brigid’s: Saturday - 6:00pm, Sunday - 9:00am and Sunday - 6:00pm.

St. Laurence’s Church: Monday- 9:30am, Wednesday - 9:30am, Friday -12 noon and Sunday - 7:30am

Year 7 SJC Enrolments 2026

Sports

Dio Swimming

The Bathurst Diocese swimmers put on a fantastic performance at the recent Dio Swimming Carnival in Dubbo, showcasing skill, determination, and sportsmanship. A huge congratulations to our team of swimmers from St Laurence’s, who gave it their all and swam exceptionally well.

Special congratulations to Eugene, who has now progressed to the Polding Championships later this term at SOPAC swimming 50m butterfly. We wish you all the very best as you take on this next exciting challenge!

Well done to all our swimmers – your hard work and dedication are truly commendable!

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 the toilets.

Being safe in the toilets means:

• We wash our hands using soap and water after using the toilets
• We keep the floor dry
• We have only one person per cubicle
• We leave our food outside
• Games are for the playground

Being responsible in the toilets means:

• We move away from the toilet area when we are not using them
• We use the toilets appropriately 
• We flush the toilet after we have finished
• We turn taps off
• We wait for friends outside
• We return to class promptly 

Being respectful in the toilets means:

• We respect other people’s privacy
• We clean up after ourselves

Library

Canteen

Thank you to our wonderful parent helpers who have heard our call for help and put their hands up to volunteer on Friday's in our school canteen.

The roster for Term 1 is available by clicking the link below: CANTEEN VOLUNTEERS ROSTER - TERM 1 2025
Helping in the canteen involves serving students at the canteen window, helping sort and organise the lunch orders, cooking food for lunch orders, washing up and cleaning up.

Our meal break times are:
Recess 10:50 - 11:10am;
Infants Lunch 12:40 - 1:20pm;
Primary Lunch 1:10 - 1:50pm.

Any assistance will be much appreciated to ensure our canteen is able to continue functioning for our students.

Dates to remember

Birthdays

Curriculum Corner

Year 6 

Year 6 students have been busy creating stunning artwork using a variety of textures and forms in preparation for our Christmas art competition. Through experimenting with materials such as wire, foil and lead pencil, they have explored how different surfaces can bring their festive designs to life.

From perspective landscapes to detailed foil and wire sculptures, each piece reflects their creativity and skill. This hands-on approach has not only enhanced their artistic techniques but also allowed them to develop a deeper understanding of texture in visual art.

We can't wait to see their final masterpieces on display!

Awards

Happy Families

Community News