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Every Child, Every Day,
Learning and Achieving in a Faith - Filled Environment
Dear Parents, Students, Staff and all associated with St Joseph’s Community
We welcome everyone to the start of a new term and hope that you all had some time over the Easter break to rest and rejuvenate. There has been a great vibe as we have rejoined together as a learning community this week.We extend a particularly warm welcome to our new families and students and trust that all are enriched as we grow together as part of the St Joseph’s community over this coming term.
Our break also included the Easter period. As a community of faith, we were called to participate in the services and rejoice in the resurrection. Our belief in the resurrection has important consequences for our day to day lives. It celebrates unconditional love and provides us with a wonderful sense of hope for our lives
As humans, we need hope. We can’t live our lives fully without hope. It is the lifeblood of our spiritual survival, and the only thing that pulls us out of the deep trenches of the pain and hurt in life. Hope is a driving force that things will be better; that things can be better. Hope gives us purpose. It keeps us alive. It drives us, and moves us to do and be more.
So as we commence this term, spend some time thinking about what you hope for over the coming weeks.
What are you called to do?
Who are you called to become?
What do you hope to grow in?
Have faith in your ability to improve and the hope for something more.
“Lord, we ask this Easter to become more like you. Help us to develop an inner strength that is capable of handling life’s situations. Help us to provide a place in our heart where you reside. Amen.”
COVID Safe Measures
In addition to the letter to the school community last week, contained in this newsletter is a COVIDSafe Measures for Schools - Information Sheet for parents, guardians and carers, that may further assist as a point of reference. No doubt these recent changes will make for a more manageable term ahead for families and the school.
Continued Safety at Drop Off and Pick Up
Parents, guardians and carers are very welcome to enter the school with their child/ren in the mornings and afternoons. We will, however, continue with our current morning and afternoon routines and procedures, as we have found that these have had the added benefit of much calmer student entry and exit from buildings. This also means class teachers are on duty from 8.30am and may not be as available to talk with parents at drop off time. If there is a matter of concern, we continue to ask parents to use other means of communication to get in touch with teachers, who can then arrange a mutually convenient time to talk. With afternoon pick-up, parents may collect and escort their child from the concourse, however we will continue to run two car lines and it may be safer to continue with carline pick-ups than to navigate moving vehicles with children.
School Events
Stepping into Term 2, our school is certainly back into the full swing of busy school life, with many varied events on the school calendar. We encourage parents and guardians to join students for various activities. Teachers are busily preparing these opportunities, including an open afternoon for families (June 20) to visit their child’s classroom. We are also seeking volunteers and helpers who may be able to offer their time with lunchtime clubs and our Thursday i-hour sessions. Please let our front office or your child’s classroom teacher know if you can help out with this and keep an eye on our school communication channels (PAM, Seesaw, Newsletter, Facebook) for more event details.
Mother’s Day Stall
The Mothers Day Stall was an outstanding success with students making the most of the opportunity to find something special for their mums. To all our great mums and grandmothers and mother figures, thank you for all that you do from our early beginnings through our failures, mistakes and errors to when finally we pretend we don’t need you anymore. Happy Mothers Day!
Insight SRC Surveys: Our school will be participating in our annual Insight SRC Surveys. A number of families will be randomly selected to complete the parent survey. These surveys, along with those completed by a selection of students and all staff members, will provide us with valuable information about our school. It also enables a focus for reflection, evaluation and improvement and informs the development of the school’s Annual School Improvement Plans.
If you have been selected, there is an online and paper option, both of which must be completed or returned to the school no later than the date stated
NAPLAN
The National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) for Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 students are held in May each year. In 2022, NAPLAN tests will be delivered online between Tuesday 10 May and Friday 20 May. I encourage parents in years 3 and 5 to speak further with your child’s classroom teacher if you have any concerns regarding this testing. We wish all students the best of luck.
After School Care on the Horizon
I am excited to announce that we are presently finalising and securing the services of the YMCA as an After School Care provider. This service will operate from our Parish Hall between the hours for 3.25 - 6pm with the hope beginning in Term 3. Once the required administrative procedures have been completed we will be able to provide further information to when parents and guardians will be able to enrol their children in the program.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us as we are always here to help and no question or concern is too small or unimportant. We always find that the sooner we ask for assistance or clarification, the sooner we can work together to resolve any situation that may arise.
Yours in Catholic Education
Ronan O’Mahony
Principal
O Lord, support us all the day long until the shadows lengthen,
and the evening comes, and the busy world is hushed,
and the fever of life is over, and our work is done.
Then in your mercy, grant us a safe lodging and a holy rest,
and peace at the last.
Through Jesus Christ Our Lord
Amen
The Grade 1/2’s have had a fantastic first week back at school!
We were all very excited to begin our new inquiry unit. This term we are learning about ‘Creepy Crawly Critters!’ To help us with this, we have some new members in the 1/2 area. Two Crowned Stick Insects and two Spiny Leaf Stick Insects have joined our classrooms. We have also received some stick insect eggs to help us learn about their lifecycles.
Here are some of the questions that we have about insects;
‘How do caterpillars make a chrysalis?’ - Elisha
‘Why can some insects fly and some cannot?’ - Lawson
‘What is the lifecycle of an ant?’ - Aiden
‘Why do bees sting people?’ - Chantelle
In Writing, we have been learning about procedures. We had fun following some drawing procedures and discussing all of the things that they need to include.
We read ‘The Giving Tree’ in Religion and discussed the gifts that we can give. We created our own giving tree filled with words such as kindness, love, respect and help.
1/2 Team
The Grade 5/6 area has been busy settling back into Term 2. We have finished our unit on democracy and will be watching the results of the upcoming federal election with a better understanding of how elections and the governments of Australia are run.
Our new inquiry unit is called What's the Matter. The students will be participating in many experiments and fun lessons all about chemical science. We can't wait for our excursion to Scienceworks. Well done to Lilah and Cleo who independently prepared a presentation for Mr O’Mahony and Mrs Coldebella of their Scienceworks excursion proposal, on behalf of the 5/6 students
During writing our topic is persuasive writing and the students are developing their skills in using persuasive devices. They have recently written a piece on which is better, the city or the country.
Our focus in maths is multiplication and division. Today we looked at our time tables and used what we know to find the answers.
Term 2 is a very busy term with many exciting activities. We have many of our students doing Confirmation, the Mary Mackillop Grade 6 activity day, NAPLAN for the grade 5s, and the positive peer relationships incursion. The grade 5/6 teacher look forward to watching the students grow and learn in Term 2.
5/6 Team
Congratulations to all our awar winners. This week we also congratulated Blue House who were the overall winners of the House Athletics and all of the age group champions. A great effort by all well done!
Caitlin Dakin, Bailey Pool, Skyla Garrick, Cooper Maurizio, Zoe Diesner, Jude McNally, Rubi-Jean Hallam and Will Hullick-age group champions
Blue House Captains Dylan Fincher,Lincoln Newton
This Term in Junior Performing Arts the Preps and 1/2’s have started dance and movement units.
The Preps are going to be exploring movement by imagining themselves as underwater creatures. Moving, creating and mimicking shapes and creatures in the deep ocean, learning how to move in sync like a school of fish!
The 1/2’s are immersing themselves in the story of ‘Wombat Stew’. Using the characters in this book they will adopt the mannerisms and movements of the different animals. Over the term each 1/2 class will create a unique dance in response to this classic Australian story. But first, to make their own Wombat Stew of course!
Looking forward to seeing the students explore different roles and movements to create underwater seascapes and funky bush dances over the term!
Ms Ton
Performing Arts Teacher
Yesterday, students from Years 3-6 attended the District Athletics day. We performed very well and had lots of fun cheering on and supporting our class mates. 65 students attended and a number of people are now moving onto the Division Championships in September. Thank you Mr. Newton, Claire Guilford, Claire Lewis and Mrs. Allan for helping the kids get ready for their events, and Mrs. Richards for preparing us, and helping to run the day.
Piper Richards 5/6T
Whole School Approach to Positive Behaviour
Effective communication
Communication is the exchange of information, ideas and thoughts so that mutual understanding can be reached. Communication occurs between staff, students and parents, playing an important role in building clarity, collegiality and a positive school culture. Effective communication strengthens partnerships and networks within the school community to enhance student learning. Communication can be verbal, non-verbal (actions) and/or written and electronic. All communication should be safe, respectful and appropriate.
Effective communication is:
- Clear and concise
- Safe and appropriate, in line with the school’s expectations
- Actively listening and undertaking appropriate actions to demonstrate understanding
- An open, honest, tactful and genuine interaction between staff members, students and families
- Consistent between verbal and nonverbal messages
- Carefully considered, controlling the use of tone and demeanour
- Being able to plan for and adjust communication, as appropriate for participants and context
- A respectful, reciprocal and collaborative process between students, staff and families
- Encouraging constructive feedback across the school community
- Directly teaching effective communication skills through personal, social and emotional learning
- Encouraging and expecting students to respectfully express their views and contribute to the life of the school
Whole School Approach to Positive Behaviour Co-ordinators
Trish Martin and Travis Newton
They use research, evidence and experience to lead and advise on online safety issues and deliver comprehensive services that are compassionate and focused on people. Click below to find more information about the services they provide.
Prep Tours / Application for Enrolment 2023
We are now taking bookings for Prep tours and accepting Applications for student enrolments for 2023. Please contact the office on 5672 1052 to make a time. Current families with students attending in 2023 should also book a tour and return an application to ensure all details are current and up to date. The application form can be found below. Email completed forms to jblair@stjwonthaggi.catholic.edu.au
Term 2 brings the transition to our winter uniform. Whilst not compulsory until Monday May 9 it is important that students wear either full Winter uniform or full Summer uniform during this time and not a mixture of both.
As noted in the newsletter previously Totally Work Wear has some supply of Winter Pinafores on hand and has been taking orders for additional sizes if needed.
Please call 5672 5878 or visit instore if you wish to place an order. Pinafores will take approximately 4-6 weeks to arrive, Pinafore sizes can be measured by current summer uniform sizes.
Friday June 10 is a School Closure day, Curriculum, Compliance and Professional Development Day.
AS OF FRIDAY 25TH FEBRUARY,2022 AT MIDNIGHT, THE WEARING OF MASKS AT MASS BECOMES OPTIONAL, YOU NO LONGER NEED TO QR OR SIGN IN.
PLEASE NOTE: THAT ALL HELPING TO CONDUCT THESE MASSES HAVE BEEN DOUBLE VACCINATED, HAVING ALSO RECEIVED THE 3RD BOOSTER, INCLUDING FATHER, THE SACRISTANS, CLEANING STAFF AND PARISH SECRETARY.
A list of live streams across the Diocese is on www.cdsale.org.au/coronavirus page. This page has listed the Mass times which occur regularly, ie. Don’t change from week to week. JUST A REMINDER THAT MASS FOR YOU AT HOME IS AN OPTION FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR MASS ON TELEVISION (6am on Channel 10, 10am on Foxtel Aurora Channel 173) or online at www.massforyou.com.au or https://www.youtube.com/massforyouathome anytime from 7a.m. AEST
PLEASE PRAY: Please pray for the people of the Ukraine. For Gerard Dalmau, who passed away recently and the anniversaries of Charles Daly, Mary Shanahan, Fr. James Martin, Dean James Hegarty and our loved ones. May God’s merciful love shine on them and on their loved ones left behind.
Prayer for Peace and Justice in Ukraine.
PRAYER FOR PEACE AND JUSTICE IN UKRAINE.
God of peace and justice,
who change the hardened heart and break the power of violence, we entrust the people of Ukraine to you.
Protect them in this time of peril;
let them know not death but life, not slavery but freedom.
You are Father of all;
we are brothers and sisters.
Give us the strength to live that truth in love,
choosing peace not war.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Please note that Father Darren Howie will be absent from the Parish over the next 2 weeks. Any urgent enquiries will be answered by Fr. Manny Lomagno on 03 59 525 418 or Kristine on 04 999 15 784. Whilst Father is away there will be Liturgies at Our Lady Star of the Sea on Tuesday’s at 11:00am and Friday at St. Joseph’s Wonthaggi 9:30a.m. Father Martin Dixon will be supporting us with the Weekend Masses.
MAY IS THE MONTH OF THE TRINITY FAMILIES ANNUAL APPEAL: Further details of the appeal will be given over the coming weeks.
DIVINE RENOVATION: “Do you want to help parishes move from maintenance to mission?”
Divine Renovation Ministry is hiring! We’re currently seeking candidates for 3 Relationship Guide roles for Queensland, NSW, and Victoria. If you (or someone you know) feels called to serve the Church through ministry work by accompanying and offering support to priests and parishes on the renewal journey, we encourage you to check out the position and apply at www.divinerenovation.org./jobs. Please contact us at australia@divinerenovation.org for more information.
Corpus Christi College and Catholic Theological College Good Shepherd Sunday Appeal Your (tax deductable) donation will support the living arrangements and education for the Corpus Christi College seminarians. Donate via: https://ctc.edu.au/community/good-shepherd-sunday-appeal/ |
FEDERAL ELECTION: Read the Australian Catholic Bishops’ 2022 election statement. Towards a Better Kind of Politics, to help you reflect on the good you can do for the community by using your vote for the common good of all. The statement includes a Prayer for the Election and the principles of Catholic
Social Teaching. Download a copy from www.catholic.org.au
( There is a copy attached at the end of the bulletin.)
EMMAUS SALE: INTERNATIONAL IGNATIAN ECOSPIRITUAL CONFERENCE (llEC2022) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=713pwSLiTV4
MARY MACKILLOP HERITAGE CENTRE (MMHC) -‘Cuppa with Mary’ When visiting Melbourne, please include a visit to the Mary MacKillop Museum that tells Mary and the SOSJ’s story. Entry is free. Do a walking tour of the Mary MacKillop Heritage trails and Mary’s place of birth. Consider organising a Parish group and have a ‘Cuppa with Mary’. Group bookings which includes a presentation, tour and prayer reflection in the Chapel where Mary prayed, cost $20 per person. Contact Kate on 03 9926 9300 for a group booking.
Learn about the Mary MacKillop’s story and ministry through participation in a two-day program at the Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre. Titled Mary MacKillop “Daughter of Melbourne” in this program, you have opportunity to explore the Life and Spirit of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop as well as have a guided tour of places in Melbourne that were connected with Mary and the Sisters of Saint Joseph Victorian Story and time for personal reflection. While this is an opportunity to learn about and be touched by the life and spirit of Mary MacKillop, it is also an opportunity for you to explore and share the challenges and stirrings in your own heart as you respond with others to action today. You can access more information, obtain a brochure and register for this two-day event.
Mary MacKillop Gift shop- With Easter coming up, please consider supporting the work of the Sisters of St. Joseph by purchasing a present from the Museum Gift Shop (communion and confirmation gifts, devotional items, Vatican Library collection, rosary beads, holding crosses, candles, cards, statues, crucifixes, books and Peruvian handmade items).
Accommodation Specials- With Melbourne opening up again, book a stay at the Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre Accommodation in the heart of Melbourne. Contact Kate on 03 9926 9300.
PATHWAYS VICTORIA: Bishop Greg Bennet said: I join the Catholic Bishops of Victoria in our renewed and sincere apology to all victims of sexual abuse by clergy and Church personnel. We pledge ongoing commitment to ensure all those who have allegations of abuse have an appropriate independent process in order for them to tell their story in safety, and to have an appropriate pastoral response which respects their particular individual needs and circumstances. For further information about Pathways company and the new model is available in the Pathways website: www.pathwaysvictoria.com
ASSSEMBLY: PLENARY COUNCIL: Keep up with the latest Plenary news:
The Connection between the Plenary Council and the Synod of Bishops.
There has been some confusion amongst people about the Synod and the Plenary Council. In preparation for the 5th Plenary Council of Australia, we have been on a four-year journey of listening, dialogue and discerning what God is asking of us in Australia at this time.
Now Pope Francis is asking us to a similar thing, but together with the entire Church worldwide. As Christ’s church, we are all called to living in a synodal way, attentive to others and ready to walk alongside one another. In your parishes you will have already experienced aspects of living synodally as a faith community. The synodal journey is not something which ends with the Synod of Bishops meeting in Rome in 2023 but is meant to be the way in which we are to be disciples of Christ, bearing his Good News for the transformation of ourselves, the church and the world.
Bishop Shane Mackinlay (the Plenary Council’s Vice-President) is featured in a brief video (1.5 minutes) explaining the connection between the Plenary and the Synod of Bishops.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-JgRwx5NnQ
To watch the full video (6-minute version) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnz0DCXGZ10
Cry of the Earth the Social Justice Statement can be read on https://socialjustice.catholic.org.au/2021/06/24/social-justice-statement-2021-22/.
MISSAL ON LINE: ‘An App’ which Father Darren Howie finds very helpful is Universalis. This will allow you to follow the Daily Mass.
PRAYER SHAWLS: There is a good supply at both St. Joseph’s Parish Office and also now at the Church in Inverloch so please keep this in mind and simply contact anyone below if you see a need. Kristine McRae (Parish Office) 0356 721 111 Maureen Maartensz 0407 055 447 (Wonthaggi) Philippa Warby; 0408 331 340, Julie de Bondt; 0407 535 032.
CATHOLIC CARE: New self-help mental health service for parents, families and individuals.
The demand for mental health services is becoming more and more prominent across the State, and for many regions, waiting lists to access services are becoming overwhelmingly long.
As a response to the increased need for mental health support, we’ve recently commenced a new state-wide mental health service with minimal wait times, called the Psychological Wellbeing Service (PWS).
Using evidence based therapies, our PWS clinicians provide parenting support and mental health support focused on self-help skill learning to aid in recovery, such as problem-solving skills, progressive muscle relaxation, and traditional cognitive behavioural therapy as a more intensive support.
We’ve also launched a free Mental Health and Wellbeing Guide created by our PWS team.
Read more about our new service and download the guide from CatholicCare Victoria.
Aid to the Church in Need Australia Aid to the Church in Need has launched a national emergency appeal for Ukraine. ACN is committed to strengthening and supporting the Catholic Church in Ukraine, as we have done for the past 70 years. The immediate emergency help will support the work of the Church in Ukraine by assisting priests, brothers and religious sisters to continue their pastoral and outreach programs. We will continue to stand by our brothers and sisters in faith as they undergo trying times and seek to bring peace to a country that is surrounded by turmoil and unrest. Can you provide aid to the Catholic people in Ukraine? They need your help! Visit www.aidtochurch.org/ukraine
P.O. BOX 335, PENRITH NSW 2751
1800 101 201/ 02 9167 9517
We have been emailing and sending out important communications from the Diocese and if you would like to be involved and receive this information then please contact the Parish Office on 56 721 111 or email your details to wonthaggi@cdsale.org.au.
We are a Child Safe Parish. Any children, young persons and vulnerable adults have a right to feel safe and be safe. If you are concerned about any form of abuse, or believe that someone is at significant risk, you should immediately raise your concerns with one of our Parish Safeguarding Officers. Contact Kristine McRae via the Parish Office: 03 56 721 111 or St. Joseph’s School Safeguarding Officer 03 56 721 052. Take care, we are here to help.
If you are in need of urgent assistance, please phone eithe Father Darren Howie 0356 722 923 or Kristine on 03 56 72111 or 04999 15 784.
Australian Catholic Bishops’ 2022 Election Statement
Father Darren Howie Mrs. Kristine McRae
Parish Priest Parish Secretary
St. Joseph’s Parish Wonthaggi