Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we approach the end of another fantastic term, we reflect on the enriching experiences and remarkable achievements of our students. This term has been filled with exciting learning opportunities and memorable events.

Our students showcased their academic prowess during the Maths and Spelling Bees, and they navigated through challenges in the Amazing Maths Race with great enthusiasm and skill. Excursions to Canberra, Timbertown, and Tocal provided unique learning experiences beyond the classroom, enriching their understanding of history, agriculture, and governance.

Sports have also been a highlight, with successful athletics carnivals and a variety of other sporting events fostering teamwork and physical fitness. Our Well-being Week activities promoted mental health and well-being, and this week’s NAIDOC Week celebrations honoured and recognized the rich culture and history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Staffing  update

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Miss Holly Galvin for her outstanding work teaching Year 1 Blue this semester alongside Mrs. Charnock. Miss Galvin has been a fabulous teacher, bringing her enthusiasm and love for learning into the classroom each day.

Today, we say farewell to Miss Galvin as Mrs Gabriele Hawthorne returns from maternity leave. Mrs. Hawthorne will be teaching Year 1 Blue on Wednesdays and Thursdays for the remainder of the year.

We warmly welcome Gabi back and wish Miss Galvin all the best in her future teaching endeavors. Thank you, Miss Galvin, for your incredible contributions to our school community!

Diocesan Spelling Bee

We are thrilled to share the fantastic news from the Diocesan Spelling Bee held today at St. Catherine's, Singleton. Our students showcased their exceptional spelling skills and brought home remarkable achievements!

A big congratulations to Harriet H. for winning the Stage 1 Spelling Bee! Harriet's hard work and dedication have truly paid off.

We also want to applaud Joshua V. for securing the runner-up position in the Stage 3 competition. This is a significant accomplishment, and we are incredibly proud of his efforts.

Well done to both Harriet and Joshua for their outstanding performances. We are so proud of you!

Disco

A standout event was last week’s Country and Western themed disco. The sight of so many children dressed as cowboys and cowgirls created a vibrant and joyful atmosphere. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the parents who organized and supported the event. Your dedication and generosity in giving up your time to provide our students with these fun experiences are deeply appreciated.

Principal Morning Tea

Yesterday we held the most exciting and delicious party for our Term 2 Principal Award recipients, it is a highlight of mine at the end of each term to celebrate those students who have made an amazing effort with their learning throughout the term.  Not only am I impressed with their achievements but also the manners they displayed at the party.  Congratulations to them all.

We look forward to another term filled with learning, growth, and exciting opportunities.

Enjoy the holidays. See you in Term 3.

Karen

Semester 1 Student Council

We would like to acknowledge and thank our members of the Student Council for Semester 1. These students have done a job representing their classes and we are incredibly grateful for their time and effort. These students have discussed and implemented a variety of ideas and their feedback on how we can improve practices across the school has been greatly beneficial. Thank you once again to the students below!

Semester One

Positive Behaviours for Learning (PBL)

Students continue to be greatly engaged with our PBL (Positive Behaviour for Learning) Dash tokens. It is great to hear children pleased with how their positive behaviour is being acknowledged. It is wonderful to see the PBL containers in the classrooms filling up over the past 5 weeks! Students may receive tokens in class or on the playground. Staff are rewarding for positive behaviours across all four expectations:

• Act Safely
• Be Respectful
• Care For All
• Do Your Best

Congratulations to the Gold Sports House for achieving the most tokens in the second half of this term! Students in this sports house will meet early next term and decide what their reward will be.

MAT Life Skills Program

During Term 2, Year 5 and 6 students have participated in the MAT Life Skills program.

This program is an active modality that combines the principles of mental wellbeing and emotional regulation with those of therapeutic martial art training techniques, games, metaphors and stories. Its format engages and empowers young people to learn life skills, and to better manage the challenges in their lives. The program does NOT rely on sparring of any form amongst its participants.

The program teaches four core values that align with our school's Positive Behaviours for Learning (PBL):

• Be Strong (Act Safely)
• Be Calm (Be Respectful)
• Be Kind (Care for All)
• Try Hard (Do Your Best)

The MAT Life Skills Program supports a positive climate for learning, empowering students by:

• Helping young people to be able to recognise their emotions and express them appropriately
• Supporting them in becoming confident, resilient and adaptable
• Developing pathways for effective communication
• Showing positive ways in which to negotiate and manage conflict
• Becoming disciplined and capable of setting goals

As such, lessons have focused on themes including - goal setting, mindset, resilience, communication, kindness, self-control and self-worth.

In Term 3, Year 4 students are looking forward to participating in this program as well.

Nicole Charnock

Assistant Principal

NAIDOC WEEK

During the holiday period, NAIDOC Week will be celebrated across Awabakal lands in this area from 7-14 July. This year’s theme – Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud – honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture – with fire a symbol of connection to Country, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

If you are in the Newcastle area during this time, check out these websites for a variety of cultural experiences for all ages.

• What's On Newcastle - https://whatson.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/event/naidoc-week
• Newy with Kids - https://newywithkids.com.au/naidoc-week/
• Diocese of Maitland Newcastle - https://www.mn.catholic.org.au/news-events/naidoc-week-2024/

Upcoming Events

As Term 3 draws near, I wish to highlight some of our liturgical celebrations and give all our families an open invitation to come celebrate with us as a school community.

• Grandparents Day - Friday 26th July @ 9:15am
• Feast of St Mary MacKillop – Thursday 8th August @ 9:15am
• Whole school Mass for the Assumption – Thursday @ 9:15am St Joseph’s Church
• Father’s Day – Friday 30th August @ 9:15am

Class masses continue next term with Year 1 and Kinder celebrating with the parish for the first time this year. Year 1 will attend Mass on 9th August (Week 3) and Kinder on 16th August (Week 4). I will publish the rest of the timetable for classes attending in the first Newsletter for Term 3.

This week, our students participated in a range of experiences, beginning with our beautiful NAIDOC Week Liturgy. We were honoured to have Mr Rowe and students from San Clemente join us. Alongside some of our Indigenous students, they performed a traditional cleansing dance to open our liturgy. Mr Rowe played the Yidaki (didjeridoo) and explained its cultural significance. Special mention to Lewis K for his reflection on family, what it means to be a proud Worimi boy, and the importance of keeping the fire of culture burning. 

The Tokooliba Culture Club has been a hive of activity. I explained and demonstrated traditional techniques of weaving and cord making, with students working together to make their own corded bracelet or headband in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flag colours. Students loved playing with natural playdough dyed with lemon myrtle leaves, creating patterns and symbols using pinecones, seed pods, sticks, and gumnuts. My aim is to continue hosting Culture Club sessions once a week, providing engaging experiences for the students. 

On Wednesday, students enjoyed a special canteen menu featuring bush tucker ingredients in contemporary ways. The menu included Lemon Myrtle cupcakes, Wild Rosella cordial, Strawberry gum compote over natural yoghurt, Wattle Seed ANZAC biscuits, and Finger Lime and Illawarra Plum icy sticks. The positive feedback and long queues indicated its success. Thank you to Mrs Aird, our parent helpers, and staff for assisting with the canteen. 

On Thursday, the Semester One student councillors visited all classes to share stories written or illustrated by First Nations Australians. They discussed the themes and origins of the books. I am incredibly proud of the councillors for their confidence. Teachers and students enjoyed having them share stories with their classes. 

On Thursday and Friday, students joined me in the Culture Club room to learn more about Indigenous cultures and traditions, and to try some bush herbs and fruit. All classes were respectful and engaged. 

Next week, NAIDOC Week will be celebrated officially. If you are able, please consider participating in events planned across Newcastle and the wider Hunter region

Leah Temple

Futsal

On Thursday June 20th, our senior girls and junior boys and girls teams traveled to Maitland to compete in the next round of the futsal championships. There was some excellent talent shown throughout the games by our Joey’s athletes. Our students represented their school proudly, showing great sportsmanship and kindness throughout the day. The senior girls’ team had very close games and showed some amazing skills. They were very close to making it to the finals, unfortunately one sneaky goal in at the very end finished their bid for a trophy.  The junior girls' team had a successful day, making it through to the finals, but just missed out with the last game going down in a 3-2 loss. The junior boys' team made it all the way to the finals, winning every game including the final, scoring a half court goal! We are proud of the efforts of all the players, they had a great day with lots of fun and cheering each other on. The junior boys will progress to the next level of the futsal championships next term. Good luck boys.

-By Clara P & Louella D ⚽

Polding Rugby

On Monday Vincent M attended the Polding Rugby Union trials. He played hard, rucked, mauled and scrummaged, showing resilience and skill. We congratulate Vincent M on his selection to the top 30, however after suffering a concussion he was unable to continue. Unlucky, but we know you’ll be back next time even better! 

Upcoming events

Touch Football gala day

Years 5 & 6 - Thursday 1st August

Newcastle Harness Club (Newcastle Touch Association), Broadmeadow

Years 3 & 4- Thursday 15th August

Newcastle Harness Club (Newcastle Touch Association), Broadmeadow

Netball Gala Day

Newcastle Netball Association  - Monday 12th August 

Student Wellbeing Team

During our last Student Wellbeing Team meeting when we reflected on the term, we discussed the many wellbeing successes and all we have been able to achieve in one term. Some of the agreed highlights mentioned from the team:

1. Getting the Monday morning Gratitude Grabs up and running during Monday morning assemblies and following them up in our classrooms.
   
   
   
2. Staff dress up themes in weeks 5 and 10 of every term for a bit of fun. This week’s theme was primary colours.

3. Executing a wonderful Wellbeing Week at St Joseph’s filled with laughter and joy.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

4. Starting playground peer monitoring to allow every student at St Joseph’s to feel happy, safe and included. So far in the role, the Student Wellbeing Team have helped new students across a variety of grades to settle into their new school, ensuring they have someone to play with each day. The team have monitored the ‘buddy bench’ and ensured no one feels left out or excluded. The Wellbeing Team are easily identifiable through their blue vests and can be sought out for assistance during lunch and recess.

Kids Helpline

National Day of Action against bullying & violence is coming up next term in week 4. Each grade will be completing an online ‘bullying’ session with Kids Helpline throughout the term, that will include free online learning about recognising and responding to bullying behaviour they experience or witness.

Following the sessions, students in Years 3-6 will be given the opportunity to explore the site and its resources. In particular, the option to use the Kids Helpline Webchat Counselling service that allows children to message with a counsellor when they are in crisis if they were unable/too uncomfortable to call. For more information, and to follow up with your child at home, please click here.

Term 3 Wellbeing Events

We will be celebrating and recognising a variety of wellbeing events throughout Term 3. Please add the following dates to your calendars and ask your children to share about them.

SchoolTV

NAIDOC week is an opportunity for all Australians to eliminate bias and discrimination by reflecting and reconciling the wrongs of the past to facilitate hope and build a fairer future. It is important for students to have an understanding that we do not need to assimilate into one culture in preference over others. Difference is a great thing, and our society can only benefit from a range of world views and experiences. This Special Report on SchoolTV offers caregivers suggestions on how to celebrate NAIDOC Week and provides links and resources that may assist with your celebrations. Please click here.

It has been wonderful to witness the social emotional growth and development of our young learners this semester. Your contributions, whether through volunteering, participating in school events, or supporting your child's learning at home, have played a crucial role in our collective success. As we head into the two-week break, I wish you and your families a safe, restful, and joyous time together. I look forward to another fantastic term ahead!

Chloe Coe 
Wellbeing Coordinator

As we move into the holiday period, as teachers we reflect on our students' achievements and growth. Our students have been introduced to our new spelling program Spelling Success in Action 2 which has provided our students with a greater understanding of morphology, spelling rules and choices. Congratulations to all of our students who participated in the Spelling and Maths Bee competition at St Joseph’s as well as the Regional and Diocesan competitions. 

Our students have enjoyed enriching incursions and excursions, enhancing their hands-on learning experiences that support our students learning in a number of Key Learning Areas such as Human Society and Its’ Environment (History), Mathematics and Personal Development, Health and Physical Education.  

The Amazing Maths Race fostered teamwork and problem-solving with a fun blend of physical activity and mathematical challenges. We commend our students' perseverance and commitment to improving their skills in all Key Learning Areas, and we are proud of their commitment to building and maintaining friendships, contributing to our supportive community.  

Leanne Skinner 

Primary Coordinator and Pedagogical Mentor  

School Musical

Wrap-Up of Our School SJM Musical Auditions!

We are thrilled to announce the successful completion of our school musical auditions! Over the past two weeks, our students participated in two separate blocks of auditions, enthusiastically showcasing their talent and dedication.

During the audition process, students worked through dialogue, character development, and direction-taking. It was truly inspiring to see their creativity and commitment come to life on stage. Each student brought something unique to their audition, making our job both exciting and challenging.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all 95 students who bravely faced their fears and auditioned. Your courage and passion for performing are truly commendable and we were blown away with the level of talent we saw. We are immensely proud of each and every one of you for stepping up and giving it your best shot.

After the initial round of auditions, we wanted to see what else some students could do and had 42 involved in our callback phase. During callbacks, students were given different portions of the script to make their own. We were looking for confident students who brought their characters to life and made the audition space their own. Throughout the callbacks, we focused on skills such as projection, improvisation, direction-taking, along with vocal and physical acting skills.

We would like to congratulate our successful students on receiving a lead role in our 2024 SJM Musical Production.

‘Tree Tales’ 19th September 2024
The Factory Theatre Adamstown
Tickets on sale early Term Three

- SJM Musical Production Team -

Virtual Academy

Our Virtual Academy students continue to impress with their creativity, dedication, and passion for their respective projects. In the recent "Discovery," "Agency," and "Perspective" units, students stood out with their exceptional presentations and exhibitions. Here's a highlight of their remarkable work:

Discovery Unit Highlights

In the Discovery unit, students engage in an investigation of interpersonal connections to delve into the realm of self-discovery, express gratitude for the transformative nature of learning, and foster a deep sense of belonging. The unit entails a variety of activities that require students to utilize and reflect on their learning strengths, interests, skills, passions, and curiosity. Students are equipped with essential competencies and strategic approaches to effectively acquire knowledge within the online learning environment. They operate in a collaborative and independent manner, practicing initiative and proficient communication in various formats.

Evan's Exploration of Einstein's Theory

Evan's presentation, titled "I Want to Study Albert Einstein's Theory of E=mc²," was a deep dive into one of the most famous equations in physics. Evan passionately explored how to experimentally demonstrate and prove Einstein's theory through physical, scientific, and digital methods.

Digby's Artistic Journey

Digby's project, "How Can I Become a Better Artist and Be an Artist That Can Be Featured in Manga?" highlighted his dedication to improving his art skills. Digby shared his practice routines and the importance of using better supplies, such as a mechanical pencil and a proper sketchbook, to enhance his work.

Ava's Fight Against Global Warming

Ava's presentation, "My Dream to Stop Global Warming," was a passionate call to action against climate change. She articulated the severe impacts of global warming and her vision for a greener world. Ava's solution of selling scarves to raise money for environmental organisations was both creative and impactful.

Agency Unit Highlights

In the Agency unit, students inquire into the nature of the self; beliefs, and values; personal, physical, mental, social, and spiritual health; and what it means to be human. They study a range of subjects, individuals, and texts and respond critically and creatively by applying independent thought, choice, and action. Through the cultivation of their own sense of self, students problem-solve, apply thought leadership, and experiment with their own compositions through form, style, and media.

Amelie's Seasons of Friendship

Amelie's exhibition, "The Seasons of Friendship," was a beautiful portrayal of how friendships change over time. Her painting, divided into four sections representing each season, illustrated the different stages of friendships through various elements. At her exhibit, Amelie also presented a PowerPoint and a video on maintaining strong friendships.

Perspective Unit: Exploring Global Narratives

In this semester's Perspective unit, Virtual Academy students embarked on an enlightening journey into the intricate interplay between cultural and historical narratives. Through critical analysis and introspection, students challenged their own perspectives and confronted preconceived notions across nine key global issues.

Joe represented South Africa at the mock G20 Summit, engaging in a spirited debate on achieving net zero emissions by 2030. He eloquently argued about the economic implications and social challenges of such ambitious environmental goals, showcasing a nuanced understanding of global climate dynamics.

Rory, embodying Canada's perspective, passionately advocated for global health through vaccination programs. His focus on malaria eradication and sustainable healthcare solutions highlighted Canada's commitment to global health equity.

Gabe, speaking for the USA pairing with Rory, representing Canada, provided a compelling voice against the mandate for every country to achieve net zero emissions by 2030. His arguments centered on economic impacts and feasibility concerns, emphasising pragmatic approaches to environmental policy.

Jack, representing China, offered insights into the complexities of transitioning to renewable energy. He discussed China's contributions to global renewable energy production and underscored challenges in achieving net zero emissions amidst economic and technological realities.

Xavier and Ottavio, partnering for Japan, presented a visionary approach to global healthcare solutions. They proposed using grants to foster sustainable healthcare innovations that empower communities, emphasising Japan's role in pioneering research for global health challenges.

These students exemplify the dedication and creativity fostered at the Virtual Academy, where they not only explore global perspectives but also make meaningful contributions to their fields of interest. We look forward to seeing their continued growth and achievements in the future.

Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from our talented Virtual Academy students!

Bek Henshaw

Gifted Education Project Officer

Spring Ball

You’ve got the spring ball save the date, now get ready to buy your ticket!

The St Joseph’s P & F events committee have been busy planning the Spring Ball to be held at Ravella on Saturday 14 September.

Tickets go on sale 9am on 1 July via QKR and are $180 per person. We’re mixing things up this year with long communal tables so you don’t have to pre-organise a table of ten. But get in quick as tickets are limited!

All the information you need to know is included below. 

Do you or your business have an item to donate to the P&F for the silent auction or a promise for the fundraising games?  Please email sjpandf@gmail.com

St Joseph's P&F Committee

School Photos - Tuesday 3 September

Due to a clash with Book Week Activities we have had to reschedule the day for our school photos.

Term Three Planner

SFX Bulletin