Filter Content
Vision: Inspired by Christ, we aspire to excellence in learning, living life fully in community
The mission at St Michael’s is to:
-
be a vibrant catholic community where all feel safe, valued, loved and respected
-
display understanding, compassion and care for others and all creation
-
foster dynamic and diverse learning opportunities
For our final newsletter of Semester One, I have decided to mix it up and include a short video clip that I have used with staff. The messages in the clip are clear, and help frame our shared mission of being people that inspire positive change to bring life to the full. I am very proud of our wonderful little school community, and feel fulfilled seeing the way our students use their gifts and talents to have a positive impact on those within and outside of our community.
“The effect you have on others is the most valuable currency there is.”
This Friday, we have the opportunity to celebrate the wonderful examples of students who have been recognised throughout term 2 for living and breathing our school vision and mission. We often receive feedback from new parents and teachers in the school that there is a special feel at St Michael’s. To me, this comes down to the shared story and vision that continues to guide our whole school community. Our students and staff embody our shared vision, and through their continual acts of kindness, compassion, love and respect, brings about a connected and welcoming community. We have continued to focus on ensuring that we as individuals are the best version of ourselves and ensuring we empower each other to be also. Each of us is created uniquely and has a role to play in ensuring that we are living signs of Christ’s love through our words and actions.
During our vision and mission assembly, we look forward to not only celebrating the achievements of our students, but giving you a sense of what makes our beautiful little catholic school unique and special.
Unpacking the school uniform policy (haircuts)
Policy
Hair that is over collar length must be cut or tied back. Hair may not be dyed or coloured. Hair that is untidy (for example long in length or on top or sides) must be cut, no hairstyles that are inappropriate for school (eg. Rat tails, mohawks, mullets, beaded hair etc.) are allowed. Only light blue, white or navy coloured bands, ribbons etc. may be used.
At St Michael’s we pride ourselves on the high standards we set in all aspects of our school. To ensure that we are consistent in our approach I will be unpacking a small section of our uniform policy as stated above. The highlighted section describes that haircuts must not be untidy (e.g. long in length on top or sides). This includes haircuts that have dramatic contrast between the sides and the top. For example a 0-1 on the sides, then long on the top. Lines cut in also fall in the category as inappropriate at school.
I truly appreciate your support in following this policy. I understand that there are a lot of on trend haircuts, however they may not be suitable for school. If you have any questions or concerns about student haircuts, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Mr James Bryce - Principal
World Environmental Day of Prayer Liturgy
The World Environmental Day of Prayer Liturgy last Friday was a beautiful occasion where our school community came together to pray, reflect, and deepen our understanding of environmental stewardship. Thank you to Mrs Kelly for your commitment to integrating faith, environmental consciousness. It is through your efforts that our school is learning to become responsible stewards of God's creation.
The students created beautiful artworks. These artworks we chose to use our hands as paint brushes as they are symbolic in that we use them to care for the environment, through planting, growing, removing pollution it gives back to us and we are giving to nature. Thank you Mrs Campbell for supporting the students to create.
Click this link to view these artworks -
Mini Vinnies
Last Friday was our first commitment to the Vinnies Winter Appeal - Noodle Mania . The Mini Vinnies team were very responsible and thoughtful in their efforts to pull such a successful intuitive together. There was so much laughter and joy from our students gathered in circles sharing this simple but fun meal!
The donation of noodles was brilliant.Through this simple act of sharing noodles and donating, we were able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.
Confirmation
A group of our Year Six students will be receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation next week . It is an occasion of great joy and spiritual growth. We pray that this sacrament marks the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith and may they always be guided by the Holy Spirit.
Confirmation Practice Wednesday, 28 June, 7:00pm
Sacrament of Confirmation Thursday, 29 June , 7.00pm
Upcoming Dates
Buddy Mass Year One and Year Six at 9.30am
Friday June 23rd
Living the Vision Awards
Friday June 23rd at 2.30pm
Sacrament of Confirmation
Thursday, 29 June, 7.00pm
Mrs Steph Brown - Religious Education Co ordinator
Enrolments for 2024
Enrolment Applications for Kindergarten 2024 are now open. If you have a child attending Kindergarten next year or you know of anyone who is thinking of enrolling their child, please encourage them to visit our St Michael’s website or visit the school office for the Enrolment forms. There is also opportunities for new families to visit the school to have a tour and meet our new Principal Mr James Bryce. https://www.smtdow.catholic.edu.au
Update on new sensory equipment
Our students are loving the new sensory equipment and space we have set up for use during recess and lunch and for brain breaks. We have now ordered new sensory equipment to set up a brain break space behind the Year 1, Year 3 and Year 4 classrooms for our students in Years K-4 to access timed (5 minute) brain breaks throughout the school day. This is a great way to reset their brains and bodies ready to get back into the learning. We thank our P and F for funding this equipment and for seeing the benefits that sensory equipment has on gross motor skills, physical development and wellbeing.Please view the safety video created by Mrs Peardon and Year 6. All students had to watch this video before using the equipment.
New School Expectation: No Toys to be brought into school
A recent review of data and behaviour expectations has shown that there have been many incidents where toys that have been brought in from home have been the cause for disputes between students and students being distracted in the classroom. For this reason we are asking that no toys be brought into school from home. Students can still bring handballs in if they wish. If there are students who require sensory toys from medical or wellbeing needs as part of an approved adjustment, then this is also fine. Each class will have a sensory box containing a variety of sensory toys/objects that can be used if a student requires this. We thank you for your support.
Ultimate Frisbee
Ultimate frisbee lessons are well underway and the students are having a ball. We have been lucky enough to secure another sporting grant to Term 3 so stay tuned to see what our students will be engaging in in Term 3.
Student Semester 1 reports
Student academic reports for Years 1-6 will be available on compass on Friday 30 June. You will receive a compass notification when they are made visible on your child’s compass profile. The Semester 1 reports are a reflection of the achievement level (knowledge and skills) based on NSW syllabus outcomes. Grades are assigned according to the common grade scale. Where a student has received a C grade, this means they are meeting the outcomes at a sound level. Please see the description of the common grade scale below.
WASTE FREE WEDNESDAY
We are well underway with our Waste Free Wednesday initiative. Thank you for supporting our goal to be plastic and packaging free every Wednesday. The Living Fully in Community Year 6 team are leading this initiative very well and showing students what waste free lunch boxes look like. Here are the results for:
Week 7
- Year 1: 37%
- Year 2: 85%
- Year 3: 85%
- Year 4: 66%
- Year 5: 64%
- Year 6: 87%
- Kindergarten: 100%
Congratulations Kindergarten and Year 6, you were the gold and silver peace lily winners for Week 7 Which class will be the waste warriors next?
Week 8
- Year 1: 52%
- Year 2: 93%
- Year 3: 60%
- Year 4: 57%
- Year 5: 24%
- Year 6: 60%
- Kinder: 99%
Congratulations Kindergarten and Year 2, you were the gold and silver peace lily winners for Week 8 Which class will be the waste warriors next?
Attention K-2 Parents and Carers: Would you like to know how you can support your child to learn English (reading, writing, oral language) and mathematics?
Here are some handy tips and tricks to help you support your child with their reading, writing and oral language or mathematics skills.
STEM PROJECT - Years 3,4 and 5
We are excited to inform you that in addition to the STEM connect project that some Year 4 and 5 students are engaging in with Holy Spirit College students, a STEM expert from the Catholic Education Office will be coming out to work with Years 3,4 and 5 students and teachers on a STEM project starting early in Term 3. This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to learn about Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM)
School Assembly Timetables
Week
Focus
9
St Michael’s Vision and Mission Awards
Mrs Amy Sammut - Assistant Principal
NSWCPS CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS
On Tuesday 13th June, 5 student’s from St Michael’s attended students Abby S, Annabel C, Milla B, Lila H and Giselle B attended the 2023 NSWCPS Cross Country held at the Sydney Equestrian Centre, Horsely Park. The day was a resounding success, showcasing the talent, determination, and camaraderie of young athletes. The participants, regardless of their final rankings, should be commended for their unwavering spirit and dedication to the sport.
The Cross Country Carnival was a resounding success, showcasing their talent, determination, and camaraderie of young athletes. Abby S achieved 4th place in the junior girls division, where she will now go on to represent St Michael’s at the NSWPSSA Cross Country Championships in July, 2023. The participants, regardless of their final rankings, should be commended for their unwavering spirit and dedication to the sport with most of them achieving a personal best on the day.
The St Michael’s community are all very proud of all our representatives and we wish Abby all the success at the NSWPSSA Cross Country Championships.
As we reflect on the success of the Cross Country, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the parents for their invaluable participation and for being an essential part of our school community.
NETBALL GALA DAY
On Tuesday the 20th June 2023, a total of 28 boys and girls from Years 3 - 6 represented St Michael’s at the Netball Gala Day, held at Berkeley Netball Courts.
Throughout each match all the teams exemplified sportsmanship and fair play. They upheld the values of respect, integrity, and friendly competition. They cheered for each other's achievements and offered encouragement, creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere on the court. The matches served as a reminder that sports are not only about winning but also about fostering strong bonds and building character.
Congratulations to all of our Netball representatives on making the St Michael’s community proud.
The efforts of our parent helpers contributed significantly to creating lasting memories for all involved. The enthusiasm and dedication they brought to the Netball Gala Day left a positive impression on the young netball players. Their active involvement showcased the importance of community support and reinforced the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and the joy of participation. We even had a “Mascot” to cheer us on!!
SOCCER GALA DAY
Thank you to all the students who have nominated to participate in the Soccer Gala Day, to be held on the 28th July, 2023. (Term 3).
Over 70 students have been nominated for the Soccer Gala Day, which is just amazing! We have nominated 2 Junior Boys teams, 2 Junior Girls teams, 1 Senior Girls and 2 Senior Boys teams to participate in the Soccer Gala Day. A letter will be sent out to all the students early in Term 3 who have been nominated to play with all the details of the event.
NOTE: Just a reminder that there are 2 locations for the Soccer Gala Days
- Junior boys and girls (Yr 3 & 4) - Ocean Park, Woonona.
- Senior Boys and Girls (Yrs 5 & 6) - Unanderra Oval
Parent Volunteers
If you are interested in volunteering or would like to learn more about how you can contribute, please reach out to Ms Shea at the school. Your willingness to be a part of this Soccer Gala Day is greatly appreciated.
ST MICHAEL’S THIRROUL - 2023 - WHOLE SCHOOL ATHLETICS CARNIVAL
Our whole school Athletics Carnival will be held on Wednesday 28th June, 2023 (Term 2, Week 10) at Kerryn McCann Athletics Track, Beaton Park, commencing at 9.30am and finishing at 12:30pm. Students will return to school by bus for normal afternoon dismissal. Please note that this is only a half day Athletics carnival.
The students running in the 800m will need to arrive at Beaton Park by 8:15am. The student’s are to meet with Mr Bryce and Mrs Peardon on arrival, to have their names marked on the roll.
Transport:
If your child is able to competitively run the 800m race, you will be required to transport your child to the park. The 800m races will start at 8:30 am.
NOTE: Thank you to the families who have nominated their child to run in the 800m. I understand there has been a technical issue with Compass, so if you are unable to nominate your child and you would like your child to participate, could you please email the school.
Buses
Buses have been organised to transport all students to and from the carnival. Exceptions to this will be those students competing in the 800m event, if you’re a sibling of a student running in the 800m or if your parents are helping at the carnival.
Buses will depart school at 9am. Buses will transport students back to school at the close of the carnival.
Cost: The cost for this carnival is covered through school fees.
Students will need to bring:
Students are to wear their sports uniform and may wear an appropriate sunsafe house colour T-shirt. No spikes permitted.
Students will need to bring: a drink bottle, recess and lunch, school hat, sunscreen and appropriate medication/puffers if your child has asthma. We will also have Mrs Costello, Qualified First Aid Officer, available on the day. Thank you Mrs Costello for your continued support in taking care of our students.
Parent helpers required:
Thank you to all the wonderful parents that have volunteered their time to support SMT at the Athletics Carnival. We are still in need of at least 10-15 volunteers for the day. If you’re able to help, please email or contact the office as soon as you can please. Your continued support is very much appreciated as we know that each of you have commitments with work and family.
Ribbons:
All Kindergarten students will receive a participation ribbon on the day. Ribbons will be awarded to the top four placegetters for each age group, in each event.
Age championship medals and ribbons will be presented on Friday 30th June at morning assembly.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions regarding the Athletics Carnival.
Ms Maria Shea -Sports Co ordinator
STUDENT SPORTING SUCCESS STORIES
We invite all our families to share their child/children’s sporting achievements outside of school, so we can share in their success as a whole school community through our School Newsletter.
Upcoming sporting events and nominations
Term 3 - 2023
July 28 - Soccer 2023 South Coast Gala Day
August 8 - Athletics 2023 South Coast
September 14-15 - Basketball 2023 South Coast (BERKELEY ONLY)
September 14-15 Basketball 2023 South Coast Junior and Senior
Term 4 - 2023
October 12 - Cricket Gala Day (Yrs 5 & 6) 2023
October 27 - Softball - Boys and Girls - Selection trials (2024) - Paper Trial ONLY
November 14 - Basketball - Boys and Girls - Selection Trials (2024)
If you are interested in nominating your child for any of the above trials, please login to https://www.dow.catholic.edu.au/sport/events-primary/ to find out further details about the events, how to nominate your child and the closing date. It is the responsibility of the parents to individually nominate their child.
If you require any further information about sporting events at St Michael’s please contact Ms Maria Shea (Sports Convenor).
Dates to remember in Term 2
Wednesday 28 June: Athletics carnival at Beaton Park
Thursday 29 June: Winter Wonderland Mufti Day - P and F fundraiser
Mrs Amy Sammut - Assistant Principal
Bunnings Sausage SizzleNext Sunday the 2nd of June, St Michael’s Primary School will be at Bunnings in Bellambi cooking up some delicious, mouth watering sausage sizzles. All funds raised on the day will go towards additional school resources and equipment, supported by the P&F. Don’t forget to let all your family, friends and neighbours know to come grab a much loved sausage sizzle between 8am-4pm. We hope to see you there!Mufti Day
We are looking forward to Term 2 Mufti Day - Week 10 – July 29, 2023. This term our Mufti Day theme is Winter Wonderland! Kids are to come dressed in their cosiest outfits… ugg boots, beanies, gloves and warm jumpers. It’s winter wonderland theme at St Michael’s! All students are encouraged to bring a gold coin donation which goes towards the P&F.
Parent Night Out – 2023
A reminder to those who missed the memo.. the 2023 SMT Parent fundraising Event is happening on Friday the 17th of November, and we are excited to host another great night for you all! Although we won’t be challenging you with trivia questions, we still promise a great night ahead.
Please click on the link below to cast your vote towards the theme for the night
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BWXGM3W
Wollongong Running Festival
A huge thank you to Angela Saville, Mrs Sammut and Mrs Agostino for their work in promoting the Wollongong Running Festival at St Michael’s, Thirroul. We were very grateful to have Angela speak to our students at our week 7 assembly and present the $1000 cheque to our wonderful little school for having the most participants at the festival. We will be utilising this money to update some of our school sporting equipment.
Term 3
Executive meeting - Thursday 3 August (2-3pm)
General Meeting - Thursday 10 August (6.30-8pm) Venue TBC
Term 4
Executive meeting - Thursday 26 October (2-3pm)
General Meeting - Thursday 2 November (6.30-8pm) Venue TBC
Congratulations to the following students who received awards at the last assembly.
Principals Award
- Alexis S
- Clare D
- Cody W
- Tye F
- Kai R
- Tully H
- Noah F
Gold Award
- Tye F
