Term 3 Week 3 Newsletter 2025
Principal's Messages
GRANDPARENT'S DAY CELEBRATION FILLED WITH LOVE, LAUGHTER AND STORYBOOK MAGIC
Our recent Grandparents Day was a truly special occasion, filled with warmth, joy and heartfelt appreciation. The day began with a beautiful liturgy, offering a moment to honour and give thanks for the love, wisdom and support our grandparents bring to our lives.
We were delighted to welcome so many grandparents and special visitors into our school community. Their presence created a wonderful atmosphere and made the occasion all the more meaningful.
Following the liturgy, our grandparents were treated to the colourful fun of the Book Week Character Parade. Students proudly showcased their creative costumes, inspired by favourite storybook characters, bringing joy and laughter to the crowd. The celebration continued with a delicious morning tea, shared among students, families and staff — a perfect opportunity to connect and reflect.
To all our grandparents, thank you for your unwavering support and the special role you play in the lives of our students. Your presence was a gift, and we hope you enjoyed the day as much as we did.
Don't forget to check out our Facebook page for more photos from this memorable celebration!
BOOK WEEK 2025 – CELEBRATING STORIES AND SPARKING IMAGINATIONS
What a fantastic Book Week we’ve had at St Laurence’s! The excitement and energy throughout the week were contagious, with a strong focus on celebrating stories and the joy of reading.
A highlight of the week was our much-loved Character Parade. Students arrived dressed as their favourite book characters, with an impressive display of creativity and imagination on show. It was a delight to see the smiles, laughter, and enthusiasm as the magic of books was brought to life across the school. A big thank you to all the parents and carers who helped bring these costumes together – your efforts made the event truly special.
We’d also like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who supported this year’s Book Fair. Thanks to your generosity, we’ve been able to purchase a wonderful selection of new books for our school library – resources that will continue to inspire and engage our young readers for years to come.
Be sure to visit our Facebook page to see more photos from this celebration!
COLD WEATHER, WARM HEARTS AT NORTHERN REGION ATHLETICS CARNIVAL
Despite the chilly weather and rain, the Northern Region Athletics Carnival was a great success, showcasing the resilience, determination and team spirit of our students. They gave their best in every event and supported one another with genuine encouragement and pride – a wonderful reflection of our school community.
A heartfelt thank you to Ms Donoghue for her meticulous behind-the-scenes coordination of our athletes in the lead-up to the carnival. Her careful planning ensured everything was well-prepared.
We also extend our sincere thanks to the dedicated staff who braved the cold to support our students on the day – Mrs Gain, Mr Inglis, Miss Glynn and Mrs Carey. Your presence and encouragement made a big difference.
Head over to our Facebook page to see more photos from this event.
SCHOOL PHOTO DAY – TUESDAY 5 AUGUST
A reminder that school photos will be taken on Tuesday 5th August. All students are required to wear their full formal winter uniform on this day.
To accommodate this, students may wear their sports uniform on Wednesday.
Please refer to the information provided by Advanced Life for ordering details and package options. If you have any questions, feel free to contact the school office.
We look forward to seeing all students looking their best for photo day!
JEWELLERY REMINDER – SAFETY FIRST AT SCHOOL
We would like to remind all families that jewellery—particularly dangly earrings, necklaces, and bracelets—should not be worn to school. Recently, we’ve noticed a number of students wearing these items.
While we understand the appeal of accessorising, we kindly ask that students refrain from wearing jewellery for several important reasons. Firstly, valuable or sentimental items can be easily lost or damaged, which can be upsetting. More importantly, jewellery can pose a safety risk during play, as it may get caught or cause accidental injury.
We appreciate your support in helping us keep students safe and focused on learning by ensuring these items are left at home.
100 & 150 NIGHTS OF READING SUPERSTARS
More students happy to be checking off 100 & 150 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.
PREPARING CHILDREN FOR AN AI-INFUSED FUTURE: THE SKILLS THAT MATTER MOST
As educators and parents, we share a common goal: preparing our children for the world ahead. But with the rapid pace of change - particularly the rise of AI - it can feel difficult to know where to focus. What skills will our children truly need in a future that’s evolving faster than ever?
Here are four key areas that can help guide us in nurturing capable, confident, and curious young people ready to thrive in tomorrow’s world.
- FOUNDATIONAL SKILLS STILL MATTER 💪🏼
Even in a world where answers are instantly searchable, children still need core knowledge and the ability to make sense of what they’re learning.
- Solid foundations in reading, writing, numeracy, and problem-solving provide the platform for more complex thinking later.
- Connection with caring adults - parents, teachers, mentors - is essential. Kids make meaning through relationships.
- Skills like critical thinking, creativity, and communication are timeless tools for lifelong learning.
- DIGITAL LITERACY & WELLBEING ⚖️
Technology is part of daily life for our children. They need the skills to use it wisely and responsibly.
- Kids should learn to understand AI, including how it works, where it appears (from chatbots to streaming apps), and its strengths and limits.
- Encouraging media balance and digital habits based on personal values helps kids use technology as a tool, not a crutch.
- Teach them healthy skepticism - especially toward online trends, influencers, and viral content. Not everything online is what it seems.
- FINANCIAL LITERACY MATTERS TOO 🏦
With money-related messages showing up constantly on social media, we have an opportunity to give kids a grounded understanding of personal finance.
- Start young with basic money management - saving, budgeting, and understanding needs vs. wants.
- Explore new money topics (like cryptocurrency or social media income) together, without panic or judgment, so they can evaluate risks and rewards.
- Remind children that money doesn’t equal worth. Social media often links wealth with status, but we can help them see through the illusion and focus on what truly matters.
- ENCOURAGING EXPLORATION & OPPORTUNITY 🧭
The world of work is shifting - and so are the dreams of our children. While some careers may change or even disappear, new ones will emerge too.
- Discuss how AI might shape the jobs they’re interested in. What skills will always be valuable? Adaptability, empathy, creativity, and collaboration.
- Let kids know that university isn’t the only path. Apprenticeships, creative industries, small business, tech - there are many routes to a fulfilling life.
- Encourage curiosity. There are careers we’ve never heard of - and some that don’t even exist yet.
A CHILD’S VISION OF THE FUTURE…
Sometimes, the simplest dreams remind us what matters. Children’s dreams are wonderfully varied and full of hope. Here are some examples of what some of our 8-year-old’s have said about their future:
- “I want to be a famous soccer player!”
- “I want to be a scientist and discover a cure for cancer.”
- “I want to be a vet and take care of sick animals.”
- “I want to be a video game tester and play all day!”
- “I want to be a good person and help people who need it.”
- “I want to get a good job and earn lots of money.”
While we focus on digital skills and future-proofing, let’s also hold space for our children’s wonder, kindness, and imagination. These, too, will shape the world they grow up in.
Religious Education
Alicia O'Connor - RE Coordinator
Gospel Focus
In this Sunday’s Gospel (Luke 12:32–48), Jesus reminds us not to be afraid, for God has given us the greatest treasure of all—His love and His Kingdom. He encourages us to live as faithful and responsible disciples, ready to share kindness, hope, and generosity with others. Just as we are careful with things that are precious to us, we are called to care for the gifts of faith, family, and community that God has entrusted to us. This week, we also celebrate the feast of St Mary MacKillop, who showed us through her life how to trust in God’s providence and to serve others with courage and compassion. May we be people who shine with trust in God’s promises and joyfully live out our faith each day.
Sacrament of Confirmation
Congratulations to all the students who received the Sacrament of Confirmation over the past two weekends. This is a very special milestone in your faith journey, and we are so proud of the way you embraced this step with reverence and joy. May the gifts of the Holy Spirit continue to guide and strengthen you as you grow in faith, hope, and love.
Year 6 Post-Confirmation Retreat Day & Parish Mass
As part of continuing this journey, our Year 6 students will take part in a Post-Confirmation Retreat Day and attend the Parish Mass on Wednesday 6th August. This will be a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the gifts of the Holy Spirit and to celebrate together as a faith community.
THIS WEEK – FIRST EUCHARIST PREPARATION SESSIONS CONTINUE
This week marks the second week of First Eucharist Preparation Sessions for students preparing to receive this special sacrament. These sessions are an important part of the journey and must be attended by both parent and child.
Families are asked to attend one session per week to support their child in preparing for First Eucharist.
The session options for this week are:
📅 Tuesday 5th August @ 6:15pm (following 5:45pm evening Mass)
📅 Wednesday 6th August @ 4:30pm
📅 Sunday 10th August after 9:00am Mass
All sessions will be held in St Brigid's Hall.
We thank you for your commitment and support as we continue to walk with the children on this sacred journey.
TERM 3 EVENTS
| Week 4 | 2nd Thursday Night Dinner at St Brigid's - (Thursday 14th August: SLP rostered on the assist 5:15pm - 7:00pm) |
| Week 4 | First Eucharist Preparation Sessions for Parents and Child (Tuesday 12th August @ 6:15pm after 5:45pm evening Mass, Wednesday 13th August @ 4:30pm or Sunday 17th August after 9am Mass in St Brigid's Hall) |
| Week 4 | Young Mary Incursion in SLP School Hall for years 3-6 (Wednesday 13th August 12:10pm - 1:10pm) |
| Week 4 | 2nd Thursday Night Dinner at St Brigid's (Thursday 14th August: St Laurence's rostered on to assist 5:15pm - 7:00pm) |
| Week 4 | Feast of the Assumption Whole School Mass - Holy Day of Obligation (Friday 15th August- 12:00 pm @ St Laurence's Church) |
| Week 5 | Sacrament of First Holy Communion: First Eucharist Mass (Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th August- St John's Primary & Other Schools Predominantly) |
| Week 6 | Sacrament of First Holy Communion: First Eucharist Mass (Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st August- St Laurence's Primary & St Pius X Predominantly) |
| Week 6 | Year 4 Parish Mass (Friday 29th August at 12:00pm) |
| Week 7 | Father's Day Liturgy - led by year 1 and Picnic Lunch (Friday 5th September; Liturgy starting at 12:45pm–1:10pm, followed by a picnic lunch) |
| Week 7 | Enrolment for First Reconciliation (Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th September) |
| Week 8 | 2nd Thursday Night Dinner at St Brigid's (Thursday 14th August: St Pius X rostered on to assist 5:15pm - 7:00pm) |
| Week 8 | Sacrament of First Holy Communion: First Eucharist Mass (Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th September- St Mary's Primary Predominantly) |
| Week 9 | Year 3 First Holy Communion: First Eucharist Retreat Day and Parish Mass (Wednesday 17th September) |
| Week 9 | Year 5 Parish Mass |
| Week 9 | Whole School Meet 4 Mass: This will coincide with Enrolment for First Reconciliation (Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st September) |
| Week 10 | Mercy Day Whole School Mass - led by year 4 (Friday 26th September) |
PARISH ANNOUNCEMENTS:
CHANGES TO MASS TIMES
Due to Fr Nam not being replaced, there will be a couple of changes to weekday Mass. From 1st July there will be no Mass on Mondays. Saturday morning Mass will only be celebrated on the 1st Saturday of the month. These small changes will allow Fr Greg to have a day off each week.
MASS TIMES: St. Brigid’s: Saturday - 5:00pm, Sunday - 9:00am and Sunday - 5:00pm.
St. Laurence’s Church: Wednesday - 9:30am, Friday -12 noon and Sunday - 7:30am
Sports
NORTHERN REGION ATHLETICS CARNIVAL
What a day! Despite the wet, cold, and windy conditions, our students showed great determination and team spirit at the Northern Region Athletics Carnival. A huge thank you to the wonderful parents who braved the elements to support and cheer on our team throughout the day — your presence made a big difference.
Our students produced some outstanding results across a variety of events:
- Evie – 2nd 11yrs Long Jump, 1st 11yrs 800m, 3rd 11yrs High Jump
- Sophie T – 3rd in Senior Shot Put
- Hollie A – 1st in Junior Discus
- Eldho – 1st in 11yrs High Jump
- Luisa – 1st in 8yrs 100m
- Isabella – 2nd in 8yrs 100m
- Tessa – 2nd in 11yrs 100m
- Lucy W – 2nd in Junior 800m
- Arianna – 1st in Junior 1500m
- George – 3rd in 8yrs 100m
- Kortlyn – 1st in 9yrs 100m
- Oscar M - 2nd in Junior 1500m
- Lawson – 3rd in Senior 200m, 1st in Senior 800m and 1500m
- Hunter – 2nd in 12yrs 100m
- Wyatt – 1st in 13yrs 100m
Relay Results:
- Junior Boys – 3rd place (Max, George, Elijah, Kortlyn)
- Senior Girls – 2nd place (Uriah, Sophie T, Evie, Tessa) (progressing to Dio)
- Senior Boys – 2nd place (Lawson, Flynn, Harry, Hunter) (progressing to Dio)
Congratulations to all athletes on their efforts and achievements. We wish those progressing to the Diocesan Carnival the very best of luck!
SOCCER GALA DAY
Our annual soccer gala day is nearly here! Next Friday 8th August.
The day will go ahead if there is light rain, but if the ovals are closed by council an alert will be sent at 7am if the Gala day is postponed.
Lunches will begin being served from 12 pm. Depending on the draw, teams will be notified of lunch times. Children may buy snacks from the canteen during the day.
Parents need to transport children to and from the ovals. Games commence at 9:30 am. Children are asked to be at the ovals from 8.30am so that they can be signed on under the St Laurence’s Tent, on class roll. At 9am children will be placed in teams and given to their designated team manager. Class rolls will be there for parents to sign their children on and off. Pick up is from 2pm -3pm; again, please sign off the class roll. If someone else is picking your child up, children must have written permission, other wise they will not be allowed to leave.
Children are to wear their sports uniform on the day. Please ensure that all clothing is clearly labelled, especially hats and sunscreen! Children’s backpacks can remain on tarp throughout the day or the children can take them with them to their designated field.
Children may wear shin pads and are NOT permitted to wear soccer boots. Remember this is a Gala day and participation and fun is the aim of the day.
Thank you to all our team managers who have volunteered to assist on the day. You will be required to meet at the microphone area at 9am to collect your clipboard and team list. You will also be given tickets for children who have ordered lunches to hand out at lunch time.
If you haven't already please complete and return the volunteer note to assist on the day.
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 being responsible in all settings.
Being responsible in all school settings means:
- We report bullying and harassment
- We put rubbish in the bin
- We are punctual
- We report problems to the teacher at the right time
- We are truthful
- We think about consequences
- We take care of property
Canteen
Dates to remember
Birthdays
Curriculum Corner
YEAR 2
Year 2 has been learning about creating movement through art by using a mix of techniques and materials. Here are the artworks we created in Week 1 inspired by artist Iris Scott. The children first had to follow the steps to draw their own shaggy dog. They could then colour them as they wished. Once the dog was completed, they glued them on to a dark background and using finger painting and their paintbrush to splash paint to create the water. I think you will agree the dogs have turned out great!!
Awards
Happy Families
Community News
