Dear Parents and Carers,

This week we have observed National Reconciliation Week. This year’s theme is More than a word. Reconciliation takes action. The theme is about urging Australians to be braver and to be more impactful with their actions.

At St Michael’s our Year 6 leaders under the guidance of Mrs Mayo conducted workshops with each class in a bid to share information and stories that help to unpack the theme of Reconciliation week. All students walked away with a deeper understanding and acknowledgement of the actions that are needed.

We all have a role to play when it comes to reconciliation, and in playing our part we collectively build relationships and communities that value Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories, cultures, and futures.

https://nrw.reconciliation.org.au/

God Bless,

Mrs Belinda Hughes - Principal

SRI - focus on meeting the needs of all students in order to promote student learning and wellbeing.

I have been working closely with the Year 6 leaders of Community and Wellbeing and through this the students indicated that they would like to see a return to passive play activities. Together we drafted a roster for the leaders to facilitate passive play with each of the classes. The leaders audited the equipment available and planned out what equipment would suit each of the Years. On Monday, Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 were very excited to have the opportunity to start using the equipment. We had to remember that these students had either no or limited previous opportunities for passive play. We had cars, blocks, giant dominos, dolls, lego, duplo and tea sets to play with. Wednesday saw Years 3, 4 and 5 very eagerly use the equipment too. There were some intense chess duals happening, lego architects and racing car drivers all having the best time. Mrs Hughes even was caught catching some passive play action! 

Not all students enjoy the hustle and bustle of a busy playground. This can cause anxiety in some of our students. Passive play is giving students alternatives to the usual ball games and in turn lowers anxiety and incidents of poor behavioural choices. We look forward to the continuation of passive play activities and having choices of other playground equipment.

Mrs Ronelle Peardon - Middle Leader 1

Vinnies Van Visit 

In order to promote our St Vincent de Paul winter fundraiser “Beanies Bonanza” the Vinnies van came out to our school on Monday 31st May. This provided an opportunity for students to understand the WHY of our appeal and WHERE their donations will be going. 

At St Michael’s, inspired by Christ, we care for the dignity of every human being. We don't care for the poor and marginalised out of obligation, but we prefer it: we choose to. 

Ripples Meditation 

Ripples is a PODCAST developed for staff and parents on-going spiritual formation designed by Robyn Gallagher (Professional Officer - Staff Spiritual Formation - Catholic Education Office). It seeks to offer a space where people can draw on the wisdom of a series of guest speakers and can experience some treasured stillness through meditation. Practices like these create a ripple effect. They have the potential to impact the way we respond to family, friends, colleagues, to creation and to our loving God. Come and enjoy some Inspired Voices and Treasured Stillness. 

Differentiation in Religious Education 

This term, each class’ Religious Education ‘Easter’ unit is using contemporary effective teaching strategies which promote student engagement and provide students an opportunity to have ownership over their learning. Students are developing their skills to work collaboratively and be critical, creative and innovative thinkers. Students across the school are enjoying sharing their learning with each other. 

Confirmation 

The Sacrament of Confirmation will be conferred by Bishop Brian on Tuesday and Wednesday, 22 and 23 June 2021 to Year 6 (or older) students. 

Contact the parish office if you need information or have a late enrollment:  thirroul@dow.org.au Parish Office:  325 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Thirroul. Tuesdays and Wednesdays 9am to 3:30pm  and Fridays 10am to 3pm

Parents/Guardians need to attend the Parent Meeting: 

7:30pm, Tuesday, 1 June 2021 (parents only attend) 

Parents/Guardians and students need to attend: 

Class 1: Tuesdays June 8, 3:45pm to 5pm (parent and student attend) 

Class 2:  Tuesday June 15, 3:45pm to 5pm (parent and student attend) 

(same day as netball gala day - students attending will need to come back to school from 3:45pm to 5pm) 

Parents/Guardians and students need to attend: 

Confirmation Practice: Monday, 21 June, 7:00pm (parent and student attend) 

Sacrament of Confirmation:

7:00pm on Tuesday, 22 June 2021 

7:00pm on Wednesday, 23 June 2021

Miss Emma Groves - Religious Education Co ordinator  

This week Year 2 are sharing what they are learning about with the Zones of Regulation. Thank you for sharing some great tips on how to regulate our emotions.

Principal Awards:

• Lara Mc
• Monte H
• Jasper H
• Scout H
• Flynn S
• Katerina M
• Jeong Eum L
• Seidah B
• Jemima C
• Eisley C
• Giselle B
• Evie T

Gold Award:

• Lara M

Mufti Day

Our next P&F Mufti Day will be held on Friday, 18 June. Students are to wear smart casual clothing with closed in shoes. A gold coin donation is required for the privilege.