Dear Parents

Yesterday was our third and final Kinder Orientation morning. Our new Kinder students looked very much at home yesterday in our setting, with their buddies and the staff. Equally, the parents were very relaxed, and great conversations were happening around the deck and under the tree outside the hall. The parents bonded over an impressive assortment of beautiful home-made sweet treats washed down by tea and coffee and connections with one another were being established. I can’t thank our present Kinder families enough for providing the food, setting up, packing away and just in general  helping to make this experience for the new families as enjoyable as what it was.  Thanks also goes to our second-hand uniform shop volunteers who were of great support as well. We can’t wait to see our new Kinders looking very sharp in their new uniforms and beginning their formal education journey with us.

It was also a great opportunity for the parents to spend time in the Kinder Learning Spaces and experience play based learning alongside the children. It was terrific to see all parents converse, ask questions and be guided by their children in their play experiences. Top marks go to those parents who even got down on the floor numerous times to engage with their children and their buddies.

Virtual Academy Showcase

The Virtual Academy is a pathway that operates online, with students from Years 5-8 being supported by dedicated staff trained in the field of high potential and gifted education and with regular video conferences. The Virtual Academy offers these students the opportunity to be challenged through inquiry and to develop skills across disciplines to solve real-world problems. On Thursday at NUspace, University of Newcastle a showcase was held to celebrate student learning throughout Semester 2, with presentations across the Virtual Academy Units on Patterns, Adaptations, Leadership, and Imagination. Families, school staff and CSO leaders were invited to this event. Our school leadership team attended and what we saw and heard was outstanding from both our own students, Amelie, Emily, Evan, Ava, Gabe, Jack, Ottavio and Jo a well as students from schools across the diocese.

The inquiries that were undertaken were very in-depth and it is quite incredible that children of a primary school age can not only research and investigate at such a high standard but then also present, to a room full of strangers, their projects several times over. We are incredibly proud of all of our students who represented St Joseph’s, and we know that next week’s showcase, where Rory and Xavier will have the opportunity to present their work will be another great success. Congratulations to all VA students. They should be very proud of themselves.

Aspire

A couple of weeks ago auditions took place for ASPIRE’s 2025 productions and we are very pleased to announce that some of our students shared their skills and talents off to a very high standard and have been accepted into the program for next year. We look forward so seeing them perform in 2025. Congratulations go to the following students:

ASPIRE – JUNIOR DRAMA ENSEMBLE

Hugo Smith Year 4

Ava Kent Year 5

Otis Charnock Year 6

ASPIRE ACTORS PROGRAM

Harrison Cooper

Grace Connors

Ivy Smith

Louis Saunders

Christmas Carols

Don’t forget to mark in Thursday 12th December on your calendars as our Carols by Candlelight night. Picnics start at 6 pm on the field, all students need to be on site by 6:45pm and we will commence at 7 pm. Battery operated candles will be on sale at school or feel free to bring your own. For safety reasons there can be no lit candles. Please also be mindful that this is an alcohol free event. We look forward to hearing and seeing families and friends on the night.

The Mural

I am extremely pleased to announce that the Jordan Lucky mural initiated by last year’s Year 6 students and families has had its finishing touches this week. It looks magnificent and the students, as they walked out to recess earlier this week, had noticed the changes to it and their comments are highly favourable. The mural has totally changed the look of the quad area and once the library revitalisation and replacement of the COLA in the quad has occurred next year, this whole space will be absolutely enhanced by this mural.

Enjoy your family time over the weekend

Karen

Changes to the Student Leadership schedule 2025 

We have made an adjustment to this schedule, due to a clash with the Diocesan sporting trials (which several Year 5 students have been selected for). Captains' speeches will now take place on Monday 9th December in the hall at 11.30am.  

Please see the adjusted timeline below: 

Monday 18 November  

Year 5 complete Leadership Reflection sheet 

Leadership Parent letter & student nomination form sent home 

Thursday 21 November 

Nominations need to be returned  

Absent students to email their nomination form 

Monday 25 November 

Year 5 students vote and determine 10 girls and 10 boys 

Tuesday 26 - Friday 29 November 

Staff vote to narrow 20 children to 10 - 5 boys and 5 girls – the Student Leadership Team of 2025 

Monday 2 December 

Student Leadership Team for 2025 announced 

Nominees for Sports House Captain to complete speech at House Team Meeting 

Students 2-6 vote for Sport House Captains 

Tuesday 3 December 

Sports House Captains announced 

Monday 9 December 

Student Leadership Team will write a short speech at school 

Speeches presented to the whole school in the hall 

Years 2-6 vote 

Captains and Vice Captains and their parents are informed  

Captains and Vice Captains for 2025 announced 

Graduation Mass – Thursday 12 December 

Passing of light between 2024 Leadership Team and 2025 Leadership Team at the End of Year Mass. 

Positive Behaviours for Learning (PBL) 

This week we congratulate the Blue House who have won our Term 4 (Weeks 1-6) Positive Behaviours for Learning Token Tally, with an impressive 589 tokens!! Blue House will vote for their reward next Monday. 

We will continue to promote our positive behaviours across the remainder of Term 4. This will culminate with an overall winning house for the year. The winning house will be announced in Week 9 and will receive a Pizza party as their reward. Please see the leader board below: 

Our PBL focus this fortnight is Care for All - Caring for God’s world. This unit highlights the importance of caring for our environment, our school, our home and our community. Throughout this learning students will reflect on the words of Pope Francis;  

“We are stewards, not masters of our earth. Each of us has a personal responsibility to care for the precious gift of God’s creation.” 

Below are some of ways we can care for God’s world. It may be a way to begin a conversation with your child/ren. Why not set a goal over this next fortnight to really focus on how we demonstrate care for our environment. 

Safeguarding – ’It's everyone's responsibility’ 

World Children’s Day  

World Children’s Day was first established in 1954 as Universal Children’s Day and is celebrated on 20 November each year to promote international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide and improving children’s welfare. 

On 20th November 1959, the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration of Rights of the Child and on the same day in 1989, The UN General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child.  

At St Joseph’s Merewether we are passionate about the rights and the welfare of our children and as such, you may have seen the “Child’s Rights” poster displayed [in our front office or around the school]. 

World Children’s Day reminds us to be attentive to our children, be amazed and learn from their bright, imaginative and curious minds. They are our future. Kids Helpline has a great resource for kids on their rights which you can access via the links included below: 

Kids 5-12 years - https://kidshelpline.com.au/kids/issues/what-are-my-rights  

Teens 13-17 years - https://kidshelpline.com.au/teens/issues/your-rights 

Nicole Charnock 
Assistant Principal 

Critical and Creative Thinking 

As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of education and prepare our children for the future, it's essential to focus on fostering skills that go beyond traditional learning. Here we will explore the importance of cultivating critical and creative thinking in your child's development. 

Critical Thinking 

Definition: Critical thinking is the ability to analyse, evaluate, and synthesize information in a logical and systematic way. It involves questioning assumptions, considering evidence, and making reasoned judgments. 

Skills Involved: 

• Analysis - breaking down complex ideas or problems into smaller components to understand them better. 

• Evaluation - assessing the credibility, relevance, and quality of information and arguments. 

• Problem Solving - finding solutions to problems through a systematic and logical approach. 

• Reasoning - drawing logical conclusions based on available evidence and sound reasoning. 

• Decision Making - making informed decisions after considering various perspectives and alternatives.

How can you support your child/children:  

• Encourage Curiosity - foster a sense of wonder by encouraging your child to ask questions. Curiosity is the engine that drives critical thinking. 
• Embrace Challenges - resilience is born out of facing challenges. Encourage your child to tackle problems independently, teaching them that setbacks are steppingstones to success.
• Promote Discussion - engage in open-ended conversations. Ask your child to express their opinions and support them in articulating their thoughts logically.

Creative Thinking 

Definition:  Creative thinking involves generating new ideas, approaches, or solutions that are original, novel, and often divergent from conventional thinking. It's the ability to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions. 

Skills Involved: 

• Imagination - the ability to envision possibilities beyond the obvious. 

• Flexibility - being open to different perspectives and adapting to changing situations. 

• Originality - generating ideas or solutions that are unique and unconventional. 

• Fluency - generating ideas. 

• Elaboration - developing and expanding on ideas in a detailed and meaningful way.

How can you support your child/children: 

• Cultivate a Creative Environment - provide a space at home where your child can explore and express their creativity through art, writing, or other outlets. 

• Encourage Divergent Thinking - teach your child that there's often more than one way to solve a problem. Embrace diverse perspectives and ideas. 

• Celebrate Mistakes - help your child understand that mistakes are an integral part of the learning process. Creativity often arises from trial and error.

Both skills are crucial in various aspects of life, including education, the workplace, and personal development. Cultivating a balance between critical and creative thinking can enhance one's ability to navigate complex situations, make informed decisions, and approach challenges with innovative solutions. At St. Joseph’s our students are challenged to think both critically and creatively in all Key Learning Areas and we promote, encourage and provide opportunities for our students to think! 

Leanne Skinner 
Primary Coordinator and Pedagogical Mentor 

Virtual Academy Showcase Day 1:

A Celebration of Student Innovation and Inquiry

Virtual Academy Showcase Day 1: A Celebration of Student Innovation and Inquiry

Yesterday, seven of our nine exceptional Virtual Academy students showcased their hard work and innovation at the Virtual Academy Showcase Day 1 exhibition. Dressed sharply in their formal school blazers, these students impressed principals, CSO staff, parents, and community members with their thought-provoking presentations and depth of knowledge. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising the variety and intelligence on display.

In the Adaptations unit, Amelie M explored the timely topic of maintaining human creativity in the face of increasing reliance on artificial intelligence software. Her presentation highlighted the balance between technological advancements and preserving creative thought, sparking meaningful discussions among attendees.

Ottavio M tackled a growing safety issue with his persuasive video and display advocating for E-bike riders to undergo training and obtain licenses. His argument was well-supported and sparked many conversations about improving road safety and regulation.

Joseph C educated the audience about bio-preservation, presenting the pressing need for devices that filter biohazardous matter from our oceans. His solutions-oriented approach brought attention to an urgent environmental challenge.

In the Leadership unit, students focused on UN Sustainable Development Goal 2.4: Sustainable Food Production and Resilient Agricultural Practices. Jack R and Gabe F showcased creative, hands-on projects that captivated their audience.

Jack specifically addressed the impact of flooding on agriculture. He challenged his audience to form teams and manage a budget of $1,000 to protect crops from flood damage, fostering strategic thinking and collaboration.

Gabe focused on sustainable farming practices, teaching his peers about the use of wind, solar, and hydro power to drive agricultural resilience. He engaged students in a practical activity to build models from recycled materials, demonstrating these concepts in action.

In the Patterns unit, Evan T explored screen addiction, gathering data from his cohort, neighbours, family, and friends about their screen use. His interactive display allowed attendees to reflect on their screen habits, while Evan measured their responses, providing insight into this growing issue.

Ava K investigated water conservation and designed a 3D model of a water meter and shower timer to promote mindful water use. Attendees were impressed by her practical and creative solution, as well as the booklets she distributed, which offered everyday tips for reducing water consumption.

The day featured rich discussions and an evident passion for learning, with all students encouraging their peers and attendees to think critically about real-world challenges.

We are so proud of our students for their dedication, creativity, and intelligence. Congratulations to everyone involved for making the Showcase Day such a tremendous success!

Next Week our final two Virtual Academy students, Xavier C and Rory M will showcase their learning.

Bek Henshaw

Gifted Project Officer

Upcoming Events

During November and December, we will be holding Advent Liturgies and the Year 6 Graduation. You are all warmly welcome to attend any or all of these events.

• Advent Liturgies: Monday 2 Dec and Monday 9 Dec at 9am in the Cola
• Year 6 Graduation: Thursday 12 Dec at 9.15am in St Joseph's Church

Feast of Christ the King

This Sunday 24th November marks the last Sunday of the liturgical year which is the end of the Church year.  The new Church year begins on the 1st December which is the first Sunday of Advent. 

This day invites us to reflect on the idea of leadership grounded in love, as seen in the example of Christ the King. True leadership isn’t about power or control - it’s about love. Jesus showed us that love is the most transformative force. Even in the face of suffering and injustice, His love never wavered. From the cross, He demonstrated compassion and mercy, revealing the depth of God's care for humanity. 

The Feast of Christ the King reminds us of this example and challenges us to focus on love to create meaningful change. By choosing love, forgiveness, and compassion, we can work toward a world where fairness, kindness, and peace are more common. 

Advent

As the year draws to a close, we also begin to look forward to Advent, a special four-week season of preparation. The first Sunday of Advent highlights hope, symbolized by the "Prophet’s Candle," which serves as a reminder of the coming of Jesus and the promise of renewal and peace.  Traditionally the colour associated with Advent is purple. You will see our school sacred spaces adorned with this colour and you’ll see the priests wear the colour as part of their vestments during this time. Purple symbolises a time of penance, preparation, and sacrifice to welcome the new king.

The Advent wreath is also a symbol of the season. The circle of the wreath, without a beginning and an end, symbolises God’s unending love for us. The evergreen in the traditional wreath represents growth and the hope of eternal life. The four candles stand for the four weeks before Christmas, as well as the thousands of years people waited for the coming Messiah.

Donna Morgan 
REC 

World Kindness Day

Last week we celebrated World Kindness Day with recess activities in the COLA. Students loved engaging in some mindful colouring and card making stations. The playground blackboards were littered with messages of kindness and positivity. There were kindness challenge posters up around the school that the children engaged in, and there was an overall atmosphere of love and thoughtfulness.

World Children’s Day 

Wednesday was World Children's Day at St Joseph’s. The day invited every child in Australia to speak up through  A Minute of Loudness, where they were encouraged to share their ideas on how to make Australia an even better place for all children – a country where every child is healthy, safe, educated and involved.

SchoolTV 

Disappointment is a natural part of life that young people will encounter as they navigate through different experiences. It can result from unmet expectations, setbacks, or shattered dreams. However, learning to manage disappointment is crucial for building resilience and personal growth. Young people have a lot of choice regarding how they think and respond to disappointment. Click here to further read SchoolTV’s special report about dealing with disappointment. 

Chloe Coe

Wellbeing Coordinator

Regional Basketball Trials 

Last Friday at the Newcastle Basketball Stadium, Years 4 and 5 students were given the opportunity to be selected in the Central Region basketball trials. Lila K, Alexandra S, Mateo O, Luca O and Harry F proudly represented our school, showing determination, skill and sportsmanship. While the drills were tough, our athletes were tougher. We congratulate Lila K, Mateo O, Luca O and Harry F on their selections to the diocesan trials on the 29th November at Newcastle Basketball Stadium.  

Regional Tennis Trials 

Last Friday also saw Anthony H competing at the regional tennis trials at District Park courts in Broadmeadow. He served up admirable skills to his opponents, displaying honesty and fair play in the self-scoring matches. We congratulate him and wish him luck at the upcoming diocesan trials on the 29th November. 

Diocesan Cricket Trials 

On Wednesday, Stella P, Harriet M, Adelaide F, Hamish M, Max D and Thomas P travelled to the Warners Bay Indoor Sports Centre to trial for diocesan selections. They all hit it out of the ‘nets’ and showed their fair, but competitive spirits. We congratulate all of the students on their selection to attend the polding trials in Lismore on the 4th December. 

Swimming Carnival 

The swimming carnival is fast approaching, and we need the program to be completed by Week 8. For all students who have not yet entered, you will have one last chance to nominate for your chosen events on Monday 25th November. The students in Years 3-5 will need to let their class teacher know their chosen events, while students in Years 1-2 will need to return their completed swimming note.   

We are very appreciative of the wonderful parents who have volunteered to time keep at our swimming carnival, however we still require another 8 parents to assist with this task. If you are available, please let us know via the school administration- admin@merewether.catholic.edu.au 

Keep an eye out for swimming carnival updates in the weeks ahead. 

Shannon Bailey and Emma Cook 

Sports Coordinators 

Library Matters 

Library Borrowing has finished for the year. It has been wonderful to see so many children eager to borrow and sad to see this come to an end.  BUT don’t forget that all students have access to our online library, SORA.  They just sign in using their school email address and school password. They then need to select the ACEN (Australian Catholic Education Network) library. 

Now is the time to get all those books back to the library.  Students are gently reminded to return overdue books on a weekly basis.  If the book is still not returned, we send home a written reminder, often with an image of the cover of the book to help students to locate the book.  It's amazing how just seeing that image prompts the student to remember where they put the book.  

If you have received one of these special reminders, can you have a look with your child to locate the book.  Don’t panic if you can’t find it but do let us know so we can work out what happens next. The best way to do this is to write on the reminder we sent home and return it to us. Sometimes, students are asked to replace a book or pay for us to get another copy, but we will talk to you or your child about this.  

Thanks for all your support this year. 

The Library Team 

School Fees

School fees are to be finalised by 30 November 2024.
If you are experiencing financial hardship please contact the school office to arrange an appointment with the Principal.

Term Planner - Term 4**Please note these dates are subject to change and any changes will be communicated via Compass as soon as they occur.

You’re invited to drinks to celebrate the end of another school year and farewell the current Year 6 Mums. This is open to Mums from all years of the school, and is a tradition that’s been held over many years.

Friday 29 November 2024 from 5.00pm at Beaches Hotel Merewether

No cover charge. Buy your own drinks and food.
RSVP: Let Madeleine McKell know if you can attend: Madeleinemckell@hotmail.com

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