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- Aspire OSHC - Available
- Reminders ....
- 2025 School Term dates
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Dear Parents and Carers
In last Sunday’s Gospel reading from Luke 12:32-48, Jesus shares a powerful message about trust, readiness, and the responsibility we have in our relationship with God. In these verses, Jesus tells his disciples not to be afraid, for God has chosen to give them the kingdom. This reassurance calls us to live with faith, knowing that God's love and care for us are unwavering.
This trust in God’s provision brings to mind the example of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, who placed her complete trust in God throughout her life. She faced countless challenges and uncertainties, yet she remained steadfast in her belief that God would guide her. Like the disciples in Sunday’s Gospel, she was called to serve others with a heart full of faith, and she did so by founding schools and helping those in need, always relying on God’s grace and guidance. St Mary of the Cross MacKillop’s life reminds us that even in times of difficulty, when the future may seem uncertain, trusting in God’s plan allows us to find strength and purpose.
As parents and educators, we are entrusted with the precious task of nurturing our children’s hearts and minds, preparing them not only academically but spiritually and morally for the future. The Gospel reminds us that being vigilant, keeping our hearts focused on God, and living with integrity are essential parts of our calling as disciples. Like St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, we are called to live with purpose and to be faithful stewards of the gifts God has entrusted to us.
Let us encourage our children to live with a sense of responsibility—not just for their learning, but for their relationships, their spiritual growth, and their commitment to one another in our school community. In doing so, we help them understand that the most important things are not what we own or accumulate, but how we live, love, and serve.
May we all continue to trust in God’s provision and live with a heart ready to serve, knowing that we are part of a much greater plan.
Have a wonderful week!
Mrs Vicky Davidson
PRINCIPAL
Please see Father Mark's letter, which was published in the parish bulletin last weekend.
My dear parishioners of Warrawong, Berkeley and Port Kembla,
As I consider the enormous task which Bishop Brian Mascord has given me I am reminded of the words from St. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, “I came amongst you in weakness and in fear and great trembling” (1 Cor 2,3) not because I’m expecting trouble but because the task is so hopelessly greater than what one priest alone can do. But then again, I am reassured by another scripture verse where “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” (Phil 4,13) A new parish priest will inevitably mean some change, and change can sometimes cause a sense of uncertainty or even anxiety. I am writing these words to you before I arrive to reassure you all that I come as one who will listen and hear your story. I want to know you and your circumstances as much as possible.
Shortly after I commence my new role on 19 August 2025 I aim to organise a separate meeting outside of mass with each of the parish communities, not so much to cast my vision for the parishes, but to get to know you (or in the case of Port Kembla, to know you more deeply) and to allow you to know me somewhat better. Thankfully, I am not a total stranger to either of the three parish communities, but a new role always brings with it new perspectives. Out of sheer practical necessity, the only thing that will change very early will be the weekday mass and confession schedule. This will simply allow for mass in each parish while allowing for the two school communities to participate in a parish mass nearby on a regular basis. This will permit me to undertake the many funerals we have in our area and the many additional liturgical demands made upon priests in their ministry. All other changes will happen as a result of the dialogue with the various communities as we begin this new chapter together. To this end, I ask you all to pray fervently for me, that I may be for you, all that the Lord in his goodness and mercy is calling me to be.
In Christ Jesus,
Father Mark
Our school calendar is filled with many learning opportunities this term. Please keep an eye on Compass, the Parent Calendar, and other communication platforms for information on these events.
Safety around our School
Student safety is paramount at all times in our school, and I remind parents and family members who collect children from school to observe the parking restrictions in place. Please observe all speed limits in place around the school. Parents and caregivers are asked to use the assigned school crossing if parking on the opposite side of the road. The local council enforces parking restrictions and safe practices around our school. Thank you for keeping our children safe.
Leadership Retreats
Each year, school leaders attend School Leadership Retreats. This year’s retreats are titled "Pilgrims of Hope" and will be facilitated by the Spiritual Formation team.During the retreat, there will be opportunities to explore the understanding and experience of hope within our Catholic context, reflecting on our lives as a pilgrim through prayer and shared conversations, and considering how hope is given expression in our lives.
Our school leaders will be attending these retreats on the following days:
Principals Retreat: Monday 15 and Tuesday 16 September - Mrs Davidson
Assistant Principals: Tuesday 27 and Wednesday 28 August - Mr Murphy
Last Tuesday, our Year 6 students travelled to Ss Peter and Paul Kiama to celebrate Mass with Bishop Brian Mascord and the Year 6 students from eight Diocesan schools, marking their final year of primary school. The students gathered as communities of faith to reflect on their journey together through primary school. Bishop Brian encouraged everyone to bring the good news to all, be the light in the darkness, and spread hope, joy, and kindness in the world. Thank you to Father Damiel Ellis and Father Chris Roberts for celebrating with us. After Mass, the students enjoyed lunch and connected on Kiama Beach. A special thank you to the staff and students of St Patrick's Catholic Primary School, Port Kembla, for sharing the bus with us and Ss Peter and Paul Catholic Primary School, Kiama, for kindly hosting this year's Mass.
Solemnity of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop
Last Friday, 8 August, our school gathered with the parish community to celebrate the Solemnity of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop. It was a beautiful opportunity to reflect on the life and legacy of Australia's first Saint, whose courage, compassion, and deep faith continue to inspire us all. St Mary MacKillop's mission to "Never see a need without doing something about it" challenges us to live with hearts full of kindness and a spirit eager to serve. Schools across our diocese also gathered at St Francis Xavier Cathedral for a special Mass with Bishop Brian to honour this remarkable woman. We are so proud of Rocco and Soraya for representing our school with such enthusiasm and reverence. Thank you. St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Pray for us.
Our School Values
As communicated in our previous newsletter, the value we have been focusing on this term is acceptance. At St Francis of Assisi, we value acceptance because Jesus teaches us to love one another and wants us to build a community where everyone belongs. At our Principal and Values Award Assembly tomorrow, the value award for acceptance will be presented to one student from each class.
2025 Celebration of Learning Timetable - Assembly starts 2:10 pm
| Term/Week | Date | Class |
| Term 3 Week 4 |
Friday 15 August | 2 Blue |
| Term 3 Week 8 | Friday 12 September | K Blue |
| Term 4 Week 5 |
Friday 14 November | 6 Blue |
| Term 4 Week 9 | Friday 12 December |
Principal and Value Awards Only |
Please see the table below for the Assembly Dates and times. These can also be found on the calendar available on Compass. Parents/Carers of students receiving awards will be notified if their child is receiving an award each week.
| Week | Date | Time |
| 4 | Friday 15 August - Year 2 Celebration of Learning | 2:10 pm |
| 5 |
Friday 22 August K-2 Dance Interest Group Showcase |
8:45 am |
| 6 |
Thursday 28 August LEGO Interest Group Showcase |
8:45 am |
| 7 |
Thursday 4 September - Father's Day Drawing and Sketching Interest Group Showcase |
TBC |
| 8 | Friday 12 September - Kindergarten Celebration of Learning | 2:10 pm |
| 9 | Friday 19 September | 8:45 am |
| 10 | Thursday 25 September | 8:45 am |
Stage Leaders 2025
For any issues regarding your child that cannot be handled by contacting the class teacher, please contact the relevant stage leaders below.
Early Stage 1 / Stage 1 (K-2) - TBC (Contact Mr Murphy in the meantime)
Stage 2 (Year 3 and 4) - Mr Murphy
Stage 3 (Year 5 and 6) - Mr Smith
St Clare of Assisi Awards
Please be reminded that these awards started in 2024. Any Merit, RE or PB4L awards achieved from this time on will count towards the St Clare of Assisi merit awards (but can only be used once).
Process:
5 x Class Awards (Merit, RE or PB4L) = St Clare of Assisi Award - please bring the 5 awards to school. These will be recorded, and a St Clare of Assisi Merit Award will be presented at the next assembly.
3 x St Clare of Assisi Awards = 1 St Francis Medallion
Please let me know if you have any questions about the awards system.
PB4L Term 3 Overview
Each week in our school, we have a schoolwide focus on an aspect of PB4L (Being Respectful, Responsible or Safe) and an aspect of SEL (Social and Emotional Learning).
Please see the table below for an overview of the focus areas ahead in Term 3.
| Week | PB4L Focus | SEL Focus |
| 4 | Be Responsible - Asking permission | Bullying: NO WAY! |
| 5 | Be Safe - Road Safety | Winning and losing |
| 6 | Be Respectful - Positive body language | Forgiveness |
| 7 | Be Responsible - Environment | Self Compassion |
| 8 | Be Safe - Sun Protection | Apologising |
| 9 | Be Respectful - Eye Contact | Making mistakes |
| 10 | Be Responsible - Care of belongings | Reflection |
Bullying, No Way! Week
We are acknowledging Bullying, No Way! Week this week at school (11-15 August). Every day, we say No Way to bullying at St Francis.
As part of reviewing our Tell Them From Me Survey data, we have observed a need to look more deeply into what bullying is and how we can work together to prevent bullying in our school.
Students have engaged in learning this week, focusing on the definition of bullying and other associated terms, as well as examples of what bullying is and what it is not.
A starting point for us as adults in our community is reconnecting ourselves with, and being clear in our understanding of, the definitions of bullying, harassment, and discrimination. We also benefit from exploring examples of what bullying is and isn't, to help us better understand how we can strive to prevent bullying from occurring in our school.
Below are some helpful definitions that we will use as a starting point. If you would like to speak further about your experience or your child's experience with bullying, we would love to hear from you as we tackle this important issue together as a connected and collaborative community.
Childhood Anxiety Seminar (Online)
Please see the flyer below for details on an upcoming workshop for parents with children who are experiencing anxiety.
Mr Brett Murphy
Assistant Principal
| Date | Event | Attending | Venue |
| Friday 29 August | South Coast Soccer Gala Day |
Selected Year 3-6 students | Unanderra Park, Unanderra |
| Thursday 18 September | South Coast Junior Basketball Gala Day | Selected Year 3-4 students | Illawarra Sports Stadium, Berkeley |
| Friday 19 September | South Coast Senior Basketball Gala Day | Selected Year 5-6 students | Illawarra Sports Stadium, Berkeley |
2025 SFAW Athletics Team: AJ, Aleksander, Ella F, Mohamad JB, Angelina, Mia D, Christian, Hussein S, Thayir, Hussein SH, Kendall, Oliver T, Rahwa, Harrison, Helena, Joy, Olivia, Kyan, Dikran, Ella L, Ayva.
South Coast Soccer Gala Day
Olympics Unleashed Visit Today
Today, the students in Years 4-6 had a visit from Australian Olympian Felicity Turner. They learned from Felicity Turner's Olympic journey about how to build resilience, the importance of setting goals, and how to find what you are passionate about.
Students heard firsthand from Felicity Turner about how she overcame challenges to compete in her chosen sport at the very highest level, and how some lessons she has learned in sport can help them to be the best they can be – whether that’s in school, at home, on the sporting field, or with friends.
Our staff have been engaging in lots of professional learning during Week 1-5 this term. This professional learning is imperative for staff to maintain current, research based, knowledge in many areas, to continue to improve the learning and teaching outcomes for all students in our school.
Please see below for details.
| What | Focus | Who |
| Staff Development Day | Annual Improvement Plan - English Syllabus, Data Anaylsis, Collaborative Planning | All Staff |
| Anti-Bullying Procedure | Training on revised CEDoW Procedure to prepare for school implementation | Mrs Davidson, Mr Murphy |
| Child Safety | Child Protection | Mr Murphy |
| Meeting the needs of diverse learners |
Evidence based learning of best practice and support for students with diverse learning needs | Mr Murphy |
| Staff Meetings | Personalised Planning Annual Improvement Plan - Assessment PB4L Student Support |
All Teachers |
| Collaborative Data and Planning Days | Data Analysis, Collaborative Planning | All Teachers |
| Learning in Leadership x 2 | Leading Learning and Teaching | Mr Murphy |
| Community of Practice | Collaborating with other schools around learning and teaching in Mathematics | Mr Gilmore, Mrs Davidson |
| EAL/D | Supporting EAL/D students in the classroom | Mrs Logue, Miss Ivancevic |
| System-Wide Professional Learning | School Strategic Planning | Mrs Davidson, Mr Murphy |
| Mathematics Curriculum | Ongoing Implementation of the Mathematics syllabus | Mr Smith, Mr Gilmore |
| Principal and Assistant Principal Meeting | School Strategic Planning | Mrs Davidson, Mr Murphy |
| SSSO Meeting | Networking and Professional Updates | Mrs Brabender |
| English Curriculum | Ongoing Implementation of the English syllabus | Mr Smith, Ms Maitland |
A message from Mrs Jo
Book Week 2025: “Book an Adventure!”
Celebrate Stories, Culture, and Language
This year’s Book Week theme, “Book an Adventure!”, invites children to explore new worlds, ideas, and cultures through stories. It’s a perfect celebration for our multicultural school community, where many families speak multiple languages and bring rich cultural traditions to the classroom.
Books are more than just words and pictures—they’re passports to imagination, discovery, and connection. For families who speak a language other than English at home, this year’s theme is especially meaningful. It’s a reminder that every language has stories worth exploring and sharing.
Why Home Language Matters
Did you know that supporting your child’s literacy in your home language actually boosts their success in English too?
- A strong foundation in your first language helps children understand how language works.
- It builds confidence, memory and problem-solving skills and encourages a positive sense of identity through strengthening connections to family, community and culture.
- Children who read and speak in two or more languages often show higher academic achievement and greater empathy.
Free Resources for Multilingual Reading
Whether you’re looking to improve home language literacy or just enjoy reading together, here are two great (and free) resources:
1. Unite for Literacy – Digital Picture Books in Many Languages
This free website offers beautifully illustrated books for children, with narration available in different languages. It’s a wonderful way for families to read together and hear stories in their native tongue.
www.uniteforliteracy.com
2. Books in Your Language – NSW Public Libraries
Many public libraries across NSW offer books in a wide range of community languages. You can request books through their Multicultural Services, including bulk loans from other libraries if needed.
A great starting point is the State Library of NSW’s library directory or your local council library.
Randwick Library – Request Books in Your Language
Let’s celebrate Book Week 2025 by turning every page into an adventure—in every language.
Happy reading!
Thank you to families and staff who placed orders for our Pie Drive. Through your generosity, we raised just over $1200 for our school.
The Clothing Pool will be opened later on in the term, date to be confirmed.
Dear Year 2 Parents and Carers,
You are requested to attend a brief meeting on Thursday 21 August in the hall at either 8.45 am or 2.15 pm regarding the 2026 iPad Program.
As you are aware St Francis of Assisi has been running the 1:1 iPad initiative for a number of years. Each year the school has recommended that parents purchase an iPad for use at school. This has been called BYODD or Bring Your Own Designated Device. For the past two years, we have implemented the School Managed iPad system, with many great benefits and positive feedback from parents, staff and students.
Technology is constantly changing, and there are many pros and cons to the BYODD model. We will be holding information sessions next term to provide some information on the School Managed iPad system and allow you to ask any questions you may have.
St Francis of Assisi takes the responsibility of teaching students to be responsible and respectful users of technology seriously. We need to ensure we can support the management of technology to support the educational benefits of the iPad.
In the meantime, could we please ask that you:
Hold off on buying a new iPad for next year, the above parent meeting session will provide further information, which will be a cheaper option.
Years 1 and 2 students had an amazing time last Thursday during their excursion to Sydney. They were thrilled to take an underwater journey through the ocean tunnel, investigate the rock pools, and discover the world's largest variety of Australian aquatic life up close at the Sea Life Aquarium. The trip also included a visit to Sydney Wildlife Park, where they discovered native Australian wildlife and had the chance to come face to face with some of our iconic animals. Their adventure also included seeing some of the most venomous snakes and spiders in the country. The students were extremely well behaved and everyone agreed they had a fabulous time!.
The students have the opportunity to purchase a Graduation item as a memento of their time here at St Francis of Assisi. The purchase of the Graduation item is completely optional. Orders are due on Compass by Friday, 22 August, Week 5 this term.
During Term 3, our students are proudly showcasing their talents in their chosen Interest Groups at our weekly assemblies.
The first group to showcase was our Year 3-6 Dance Group.
The following excursions will be held this term. Permission for students to attend will be required on Compass. These events will be issued closer to the dates.
| Week 6 | Year 3 & 4 | Excursion to Stanwell Park | Tuesday 26 August |
| Week 7 | Kindergarten | Excursion to Shoalhaven Zoo | Friday 5 September |
ATTENTION PARENTS - IMPORTANT REMINDER
Please note that for school excursions and sporting events, all permission and payment must be submitted online via Parents Compass. The system is paperless, cashless and digital only. No paper forms will be supplied; all permissions must be submitted digitally on the Parent Compass.
Please note that if these are not submitted by the relevant due dates, the students will automatically be removed from the event as non-attendees. If you have any questions or require assistance, please contact the School Office or Class Teacher.
Students will automatically be removed from events as non-attendees if permission and payment are not submitted digitally
online by the due date.
Dear Parents
It is by law that when your children are absent from school an explanation is provided. Please respond to the text notification or log in to your Parent Compass and submit the absence. Many absences are unexplained and we require parents to check Compass and complete. Please see the attached instructions for your information. Thank you.
Dont' forget your HAT, DRINK BOTTLE and put your NAME on your property.
