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Vision: Inspired by Christ, we aspire to excellence in learning, living life fully in community
The mission at St Michael’s is to:
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be a vibrant catholic community where all feel safe, valued, loved and respected
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display understanding, compassion and care for others and all creation
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foster dynamic and diverse learning opportunities
The National Student Wellbeing Program 2024-2027
In response to parent and student Tell Them From Me survey responses and school wellbeing data, we are in the process of submitting an application to be provided funding for a Wellbeing Officer to commence at St Michael’s in 2024. This additional resource would serve as a key strategy of our strategic plan in having a proactive approach to supporting the wellbeing needs of all students. The role of the Wellbeing Officer would be to work with teachers, providing support for the wellbeing needs of our students. This role is funded through the National Chaplaincy Program. Key aspects of the role if approved may include:
- Whole class and small group wellbeing programs
- Additional support for the emotional needs of students, in consultation with teachers and our Catholic Care Counsellor.
- Lunchtime social support programs (games and activities)
- Individual wellbeing support strategies
In making an application for the next three years we require the completion of a Community Consultation Survey. Parents and carers are invited to complete the survey using this link. The survey will only take approximately 2-3 minutes and will be a key piece of evidence in supporting our application. Could this survey please be completed by Monday 7 August. Students will also have the opportunity to complete this survey at school.
External providers update
Choir
This week we welcomed Carmel from Singsational who will be running choir sessions on a Tuesday morning. We had a great turnout of students for our first session. We have had some enquiries in regards to exploring the option of including students in Kindergarten and Year 1. After initial discussions with Carmel, we have agreed to begin with children in Year 2 and up during the initial phase of this initiative to ensure each student can be supported and access the program. In time, if there is substantial interest for students in Kinder and Year 1, we will explore the potential of having two groups (K-2 and 3-6).
Catholic Care Out of School Hours Care
We are continuing to progress in our endeavours to have Out of School Hours Care available on site at St Michael’s. Catholic Care has asked for parents to fill in a more detailed survey to ensure this program is viable. A survey will be sent out on Friday via compass. Can I encourage you to complete this survey if you are interested in using this service. Once finalised we will be able to progress to the next step of reviewing our site to prepare for the introduction of this service.
Mr James Bryce - Principal
Living the St Michael’s Visions Awards
On Friday 23rd June we gathered for our special ‘Living the St Michaels’. Several Students were asked “How do you follow St Michael's Vision?” Through the responses shared, our students have remarkable gifts, talents, dedication, and hard work. Each student has the opportunity to shine in their own individual way. From outstanding academic performance to exceptional athletic abilities, artistic endeavours, leadership qualities, community service initiatives and respectful relationships.
It was truly heartwarming to witness the joy and pride radiating from our students as they received their well-deserved awards.
Excellence in Learning
Living Fully in Community
Mini Vinnies - Winter Appeal
We would like to express our gratitude to our parent community for your unwavering support, generosity and for instilling in our students the importance of giving back. Your involvement and encouragement in initiatives for the Winter Appeal will make a tremendous difference in the lives of those less fortunate.
The students also took part in lessons, they explored the challenges faced by individuals and families during the winter months and how our contributions as a school can provide them with much-needed support and warmth.
Thank you to our Year 5 and 6 Mini Vinnies and Dynamic Learning team. They have shown dedication, compassion, and leadership in organising and supporting this years Winter Appeal.
Confirmation
Congratulations to all the students who received the Sacrament of Confirmation. We would like to acknowledge their dedication, commitment and active participation in their preparations for Confirmation. We would also like to express our gratitude to Fr Ken, Mrs Peardon, parents and families. Your unwavering encouragement and guidance have played an essential role in the spiritual development of our students. May these students be blessed with the wisdom, strength, and courage to live lives that reflect the teachings of Christ.
Naidoc Week Celebrations
Throughout Week Two the students acknowledged and celebrated Naidoc Week this was an opportunity reflect on the meaning of this year’s NAIDOC Week theme “For Our Elders”, during the Liturgy we were reminded this is an opportunity for all Australian people that we can continue learn from the Elders' knowledge and perspectives, and that these continue to be passed down through generations, . celebrating and sharing the knowledge and lived experiences of our Elders past and present, to ensure the stories as First Peoples are valued.
As part of our Naidoc Week celebrations we created a whole school display.
“For our Elders.”
Each student decorated a petal, each petal represents- a way they show their support - their name is their pledge of support.
World Prayer for the Grandparents and the Elderly
Over the weekend July 22/23 the Church celebrated World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly and the feast of Saints Joachim and Anne. They were Jesus’ grandparents and the parents of Mary. This celebration gives an opportunity to reflect on the great love and care that our grandparents give us.
We shared in a prayer to honour the Elderly and Grandparents. Students throughout the week were asked to colour pictures, draw or make cards for the Elderly people in our community. These pictures were shared with St Vincent De Paul and the local nursing home in the hope that it may brighten and bring joy to the Elderly’s day.
Year Six Bishop Mass
On Wednesday 19th July our Year Six leaders attended Mass with Bishop Brian Mascord at St Therese West Wollongong. They celebrated alongside their Year Six peers from across our diocese as a faith-filled community. This annual Year Six Mass is a coming-of-age tradition for students graduating from their primary school education. It was an opportunity to celebrate the Eucharist and remind students of how they can foster their relationship with Jesus, through compassionate actions and loving words as they grow. We know our leaders participated in reflective liturgical movement with grace and reverence. Throughout this special occasion they represented our school community with pride and respect.
Environmental Stewardship
Last term we started a few new initiatives that came out of our student WEN day, these initiatives will be ongoing.
Can we ask for your continued support and encouragement in the collection of our bottle lids. We are going to need a large amount to create an artwork.
It was great seeing our students using the baskets to recycle the pens!
Upcoming Dates
Friday August 4 at 9.30pm
Kindergarten and Year Five Buddy Mass
Tuesday August 8 at 2.40pm
Mary Mackillop reflection
Friday August 11 at 9.30pm
Whole school Mass - Feast of Mary Mackillop
Tuesday August 15 at 2.30pm
Feast of the Assumption whole school liturgy - hosted by Year One and Year Two
Mrs Steph Brown - Religious Education Co ordinator
STEM PROJECT - Years 3,4 and 5
Students in Year 4 and 5 have been engaging in a STEM Connect project partnering with students from Holy Spirit College to build their skills in science, technology, engineering and maths. They have planned and designed new playground equipment and are about to 3d print their designs. We are hoping to get some inspiration from these designs for our outdoor learning space and playground equipment. Students in Years 3,4 and 5 have also started fun and engaging STEM workshops with Mr Lamas from the Catholic Education Office. Mr Lamas is working with the students and teachers in these classes on the design and make process. The students are learning many different skills and have started working with the Tinkercad app to help them design.
WASTE FREE WEDNESDAY update
Waste Free Wednesday is back again and we are working hard to promote waste free lunches every Wednesday. This means bringing no plastic waste to school. This term the Living Fully in Community team will be launching a MAGIC round where on two randomly selected Wednesdays all students who bring waste free lunches to school will receive a raffle ticket to go into the draw to win a bento box. Two bento boxes will be raffled off at the Monday morning assembly. No one will know when it will be a magic round, so it is important that students bring waste free lunches to school every Wednesday to give them the best chance to win the bento boxes.
Waste Free Warriors Week 1 results
Year 1- 30%
Year 2- 68%
Year 3- 66%
Year 4- 38%
Year 5- 29%
Kinder-84%
So the Gold Waste Free Warriors were: Kindergarten
And the silver Waste Free Warriors were: Year 2
Waste Free Warriors Week 2 results
Year 1- 57%
Year 2- 66%
Year 3- 77%
Year 4- 47%
Year 5- 40%
Year 6-75%
Kinder-68%
So the Gold Waste Free Warriors were: Year 3
And the Silver Waste Free Warriors were: Year 6
Congratulations to those classes. Keep up the great effort and thank you for caring for our environment.
Mrs Amy Sammut - Assistant Principal
Science Week
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During Week 5, we will celebrate Science Week. The wonderful year 6 Dynamic Learning Team will be hosting some lunchtime activities.
We would love for parents & carers to be involved in these sessions. If you are available to support during these lunchtime sessions please email Miss Riolo through the school office. |
Book Week
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Book Week commences on 19-25 August. The theme for 2023 is Read, Grow, Inspire. We will be marking this wonderful event with many activities throughout the week. Students will have opportunities to engage in author talks, K-2 Thirroul library visit, interactive activities with Children’s Book Council shortlisted books and of course a Character dress up and book parade. We will also be having an Authors Expo, where every student will plan, draft, write and publish a text to share with their parents. Mark this date in your calendars: |
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Bullying No Way Day- 18 August
We will be celebrating creating a KINDNESS Culture at St Michael’s by celebrating Bullying No Way Day on Friday 18 August. The students can wear BLUE mufti clothes to school on this day as blue is the colour of kindness. They will engage in bullying awareness activities throughout the day and have an opportunity to create a kindness chain. This is part of our focus on Respectful Relationships this semester. To add to the excitement of this day, there will also be the opportunity to purchase a Subway lunch pack. The lunch pack will include a 6 inch sub and a cookie. More details of how to order will be out via compass next week. Please support Bullying No Way Day by wearing BLUE on Friday 18 August.
School photo shoot- 7 August (Claire)
School Assembly Timetables
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Week |
Focus |
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3 |
Awards Assembly |
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5 |
Respectful Relationships and Awards Assembly |
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7 |
Respectful Relationships and Awards Assembly |
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9 |
Living the St Michael’s Vision Awards Assembly |
Public Speaking
Students from Years 1-6 will be involved in public speaking this term. This is a homework task, with details of topics and further information provided via compass to each class.
- Presenting in class in Week 6. At the completion of this competition three students from each class will compete in our school competition.
- During Week 7 we will host our Whole School Public Speaking Competition.
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Monday 28th August |
Years 1- 4 Public Speaking 2pm in Hall |
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Tuesday 29th August |
Years 5 & 6 Public Speaking 2pm in Hall |
At the whole school competition:
- Yr 1 & 2 - 1st, 2nd, 3rd in Stage 1, the remaining 3 students get a finalist certificate
- Yr 3 & 4 - 1st, 2nd, 3rd in Stage 2, the remaining 3 students get a finalist certificate
- Yr 5 & 6 - 1st place in year 5 and 1st place in year 6 (these 2 students go to the Dio Comp), the remaining 4 students get a finalist certificate.
Wave FM school of the year
Wave fm is doing a school of the year competition. The winner will receive a cash prize of $10,000 and we have entered our school. We will use the money to rebuild the playground and create outdoor learning spaces with the learning supply’s. To win this we need to have the most votes and you can vote everyday so go to this website!! https://www.wavefm.com.au/win/wave-fms-school-of-the-year-vote-now/ and try to get as many people that you know to vote for us as possible. Vote now!!!
Thank you for your support
Libby S (Year 6 Leader)
St Michael’s School Social Media
With so much going on at school, a great way to follow any up and coming events and read about the great things that are happening, please follow us on:
Instagram- stmichaels.thirroul or Facebook-St Michael's Catholic Primary School, Thirroul
NSW All Schools Cross Country Championships
On Tuesday 21st July, Abby S attended the NSW All Schools Cross Country Championships held at Sydney Motorsport Park, Eastern Creek. Congratulations Abby on achieving an amazing 16th place overall (in a time of 8:48 minutes) from a strong field of 78 year 8/9 girls.
Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off and you should be incredibly proud of your accomplishments. Cross country is a challenging sport that demands both physical and mental strength, and your achievement speaks volumes about your abilities as an athlete.
Your success at this level reflects the countless hours of training, pushing through and honouring your skills on the course. The St Michael’s school community are all very proud of your achievements. Take this opportunity to celebrate and cherish the memories you've created during your cross country season.
South Coast Soccer Gala Day
On Friday 28th July, 80 very excited students from St Michael’s attended the Soccer Gala Day. The enthusiasm of the participants, managers and supporters was contagious, creating an environment of friendly competition and positive energy.
A huge thank you to the convenors of these events, as there are many hours of work that goes into organising these events to give students the opportunity to showcase their skills, enjoy friendly competition and bond with their peers. Also thank you to the Edmund Rice student’s who kindly gave up their time to referee on the day.
I would like to again thank all our wonderful parents who took time out of their busy schedules to manage and support the students of St Michael’s throughout the day. Your continued support is greatly appreciated.
Thank you also to our wonderful staff from St Michael’s, who attended the Gala Day with our students. The staff reported that sportsmanship was a highlight of the event. Throughout the day, players exhibited exemplary conduct, showing respect for opponents and referees alike.
South Coast Athletics Carnival
Next Tuesday the 8th August, 2023, (Backup date 15th August, 2023), 34 students from St Michael’s will represent St Michael’s at the South Coast Athletics Carnival, to be held at the Kerryn McCann Athletics Centre, Beaton Park, Gwynneville.
Transport is by private vehicle and your assistance in this area would be greatly appreciated. If you are unable to transport your child, please arrange for him/her to be transported with another parent.
Team members are to be at Beaton Park by 8:00am and the carnival is expected to conclude by 1.30pm. There is a competitor fee of $12.00 per student. If you haven’t given consent or paid this competitor fee, could you please arrange your payment as soon as possible.
AGE DIVISION AND EVENTS
Age Divisions areL
- 8 years, 9 years, 10 years, 11 years, 12 years and 13 years.
Categories are:
- Junior: 8 years, 9 years and 10 years
- 11 Years
- Senior: 12 years and 13 years
WHAT TO BRING
- Students bring recess, drinks and lunch for the day.
- Please ensure that all your clothes and belongings are clearly labelled with your names.
FOOTWEAR AND SPIKES
Spikes are permitted in the 100m, 200m and relay events.
Maximum spike length is 7mm for track and Long Jump and 9mm for High Jump.
Spikes will NOT be permitted in 800m events.
ALL competitors must wear footwear.
This event promises to be a fantastic opportunity for our students to showcase their athletic talents and sportsmanship while representing our school. We wish all our Athletes the best of luck!
Ms Shea will be attending the Carnival to supervise the students.
DIOCESAN SELECTION TRIALS
The Diocesan Selection Trials will be held on Tuesday, 15th August, 2023 at Beaton Park, Gwynneville. (The top 2 place getters from selection trials will be selected in the Wollongong team for the MacKillop trials). Further information will be sent home with your child and via compass if they are successful in gaining selection for the MacKillop Trials.
MACKILLOP SELECTION TRIALS
The MacKillop Selection Trials will be held on Monday 18th September, 2023. Venue to be confirmed.
2023 REGIONAL BASKETBALL CARNIVAL - BEATON PARK, GWYNVILLE
- Nominations are now closed.
Teams have now been selected and nominations have been forwarded to the Basketball convenor. We have nominated one (1) junior boys, one (1) junior girls, two (2) senior boys and one (1) senior girls teams for the Regional Basketball Carnival.
A compass notice and letter outlining Basketball carnival details has been sent out to the students who have been selected to play. Please complete the consent form and make payment before Friday 8th September, 2023.
Event dates:
Thursday 14th September, 2023 - Junior Boys and Junior Girls (Years 3 & 4, boys and girls.)
Friday 15th September, 2023 - Senior Boys and Senior Girls (Years 5 & 6, boys and girls.)
PLEASE NOTE: JUNIOR AND SENIOR TEAMS PLAY ON TWO DIFFERENT DATES
Time: Arrival: 8:30am and concludes at 3:00pm
Transport: All students will need to make their own arrangements for travel to and from the venue.
Referees: The Diocese has requested that we provide a "Referee" for each team nominated to play. If you're able to assist or know of someone (High School student), interested in supporting St Michael's, please let Ms Shea know.
A Compass notice will be sent out to students who have been nominated for the Basketball Carnival.
Upcoming events - Term 3
- South Coast Athletics - Tuesday 8th August, 2023. Venue: Kerryn McCann Athletics Centre, Beaton Park, Gwynneville - payment is now due.
- Catholic Schools Tag and Tackle - Years 5 & 6 ONLY - Thursday 24th August - venue Croome Road Sporting Complex, Albion Park
- Diocesan Selection Trials - Tuesday 15th August, 2023 - Venue: Kerryn McCann Athletics Centre, Beaton Park, Gwynneville.
- MacKillop Selection Trials - Monday 18th September - venue to be confirmed.
- Basketball Carnival - Juniors -(Years 3 & 4) - 14th September - Beaton Park, Gwynville
- Basketball Carnival - Seniors (Years 5 & 6) - 15th September - Beaton Park, Gwynville
Nominations are now open on Compass for the following:
- Catholic Schools Tag and Tackle - Years 5 & 6 ONLY -
- Thursday 24th August, 2023
- Arrive: 9:00 am - Departure: 2:30pm
- Venue: Croome Road, Sporting Complex, Albion Park
- Nominations are due Friday 11th August.
- Cricket - Years 5 & 6 ONLY
- 12th October, 2023 (Backup date 19th October, 2023)
- Venue: Thomas Dalton Park (South) Fairy Meadow
- Nominations are due Friday 1st September, 2023.
Upcoming events for Term 4:
- Cricket - Years 5 & 6 ONLY - 12th October, 2023
Venue: Thomas Dalton Park, Fairy Meadow.
- Softball - Please see Ms Shea if you wish to nominate for this event.
Carnival Bookings for 2024 update
We have begun the process of booking the 2024 carnivals.
At this stage we have confirmed the Cross Country Carnival on Friday, 1 March at Gibson Park.
Scheduled emails have been set for both the Swimming Carnival and the Athletics Carnival and the dates will be confirmed early in Term 4.
Both of these carnivals will be full days.
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.
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).
Ms Maria Shea - Sports Convenor
A parent & carer guide to supporting your child in Mathematics 3-6
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eSafety Webinars for parents and carers |
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Online boundaries and consent This 30-minute webinar is designed for parents and carers of young people in primary school. It will cover:
Term 3 dates (Australian Eastern Standard Time)
Register here: https://register.gotowebinar.com/rt/2065010807464578060 |
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Getting the most out of gaming This 45-minute webinar provides families with strategies for supporting children and young people to have safe, positive experiences when playing games online. It is designed for parents and carers of children aged 7 to 14. It will cover:
Term 3 dates (Australian Eastern Standard Time)
Register here: https://register.gotowebinar.com/rt/1334321559130979344 |
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Getting started with social media: TikTok, YouTube, Instagram This 30-minute webinar is designed for parents and carers of young people in primary school. It includes practical tech tips, conversation starters and digital parenting advice. It will cover:
Term 3 dates (Australian Eastern Standard Time)
Register here: https://register.gotowebinar.com/#rt/2822124618746015758 Miss Emma Riolo - Instructional Coach |
ST MICHAEL’S BUNNINGS BBQ
On The 1st July St Michael’s had the opportunity to run the Bunnings BBQ at Bellambi. An incredible fund-raising event for the school and an event to embrace.
Organised and run by year 4 parents the BBQ was a huge success with 810 sausage sandwiches being sold (WOW!!!) The sausages were so popular they sold out before the last shift at 2pm. Many thanks to Vanessa Bolton who saved the day with a quick trip to Woolies for more supplies. The BBQ generated total sales of $3,111 with a profit of $2,261, an impressive effort.
The day was blessed with beautiful sunshine and many generous parents who willingly gave up their time on a Sunday to volunteer.
Special thanks to Mr Bryce, Mrs Shea and Mrs Sammut, who demonstrated their generous leadership by donning an apron and volunteering their time to help. Mr Bryce did a great job of taking orders, with his mathematics tested on occasion with large orders.
The St Michael’s spirit was high and everyone felt incredibly proud of our little school and our year 4 parents. A fantastic BBQ with a significant amount of money raised for the benefit of our students.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this event such a great success.
Jo Pye - Year 4 Class Co-ordinator
Term 3
General Meeting - Thursday 10 August (6.30-8pm) Venue: Beaches Hotel
Term 4
Executive meeting - Thursday 26 October (2-3pm)
General Meeting - Thursday 2 November (6.30-8pm) Venue TBC