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- Principal Message
- From the Principal Desk
- Assistant Principal
- Religious Education & Parish News
- Ice Cream Day - Monday 7 December
- NAIDOC Week
- Canteen Closed Week 10
- Premier's Reading Challenge
- Christmas Fun Day & Talent Quest
- Vinnies Food Drive - Christmas Appeal
- Year 6 End of Year Excursion
- eSafety Holiday refresher
- Sports News
- Thankyou
- P&F News
- Birthday's to Celebrate
- School Fees
- Position Vacant
- Some class vacancies available in 2021
- School Uniform
- After School Care
- School Zone Parking
- Community Notices
Sunday marked the beginning of the church's liturgical season of Advent. Advent is a time to prepare ourselves for the coming of Jesus in all we say and do. Advent is a time to reach out to others in the spirit of love and share what we have been given. Advent is a time to remember all that God has done for us and give praise to God’s name.
One of the Symbols of Advent is the wreath. The circle of the Advent Wreath, without a beginning or an end, symbolises God’s unending love for us. The evergreen in the wreath represents growth and the hope of eternal life. Purple, the colour of our prayer cloth and candles, is the Church’s colour for preparation and sacrifice. The lighting of candles each week in Advent marks our growing anticipation of the coming of Christ, Light of the World.
Lord, let me be a light in the world for you today!
As this very unusual school year draws to a close, none of us imagined that this school year would have panned out the way it has. With just under two weeks to go, who would have thought that we would find ourselves reflecting on the unprecedented year that has been. Despite the challenges that have confronted all of us this year, we still have much to be grateful for. Looking at all that we have achieved together makes me very proud.
To our parents, I want to thank you for your kindness, grace, and cooperation.
Thank you to our staff who have been amazing, despite navigating the challenges of COVID-19, they have continued to provide growth in faith and quality learning and teaching for our students. We have been amazed by the flexibility, tenacity and creativity that our students and staff have shown as they have navigated new learning while remaining calm and full of hope. They are resilient and have come through this challenging time, having learned important lessons about themselves as learners and people.
Thank you for your continued patience and support; we look forward to the day where we can welcome our parents back to our classrooms and events.
To our departing families and students, we would like to extend our very best wishes to you all. We hope that you will always look back on your time here with great fondness and happy memories.
To our returning staff, students and families, we look forward to strengthening our relationship with you and embarking on the journey of the 2021 school year together. There are many exciting things set to take place in 2021.
Merry Christmas to all and have a safe, happy and holy holiday season.
Principal
Welcome Father David
On Sunday 22 November we welcomed Father David Blowey who is Provincial Delegate Order of Friars Minor Conventual. Father David has the role of finalising all the parish formalities and the hand over to Father Damien Ellis who will be our new Parish Priest. We thank Father David for celebrating our First Communion Masses last Saturday, and we look forward to Fr David celebrating our Graduation Mass and Years 3-6 Mass next week.
School Leaders 2021
Congratulations to all of the Year 5 students who presented wonderful leadership speeches on Monday. Whilst parents were unable to attend due to COVID-19 restrictions; please know their speeches were very inspiring and a credit to them and their families. The students and staff will now have an opportunity to vote for our 2021 school leaders. The announcement of these leaders will be made at the end of Week 9. Due to our current restrictions, we have made a decision to have the commissioning of the school leaders and presentation of badges at our opening school Mass in 2021. We are hoping all our parents will be able to join us for this special occasion.
Welcome back Sienna!
There is a buzz of excitement in our Year 2 classroom as they wait in anticipation to welcome back Sienna. We look forward to having Sienna transition back into the school community. We look forward to seeing you next week, Sienna!
At the end of the year, we wish Mrs Lyons all the best for the upcoming birth of her second child. I know you will join me in sending Mr and Mrs Lyons and Harrison all our love and best wishes for the upcoming addition to their family.
COVID-19 Communication and Information Link
We thank you for your support in keeping our school community safe. If you have any concerns, please email the school:info@sfawdow.catholic.edu.au.
The teachers are in the process of finalising end of year student reports. Due to COVID-19, the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) has permitted schools to select the content that will form the basis of educational programs for Kindergarten to Year 10 students during 2020. As a result, not all syllabus content will be reported upon in Semester 2.
| FEATURES OF SEMESTER 2 REPORTS |
WHY? |
| Omission of an overall grade for each Key Learning Area (KLA) |
In line with the flexible curriculum requirements as outline by NESA, schools addressed all Key Learning Areas, however, not all outcomes and content were taught, assessed and reported upon. Therefore, the overall grades in each KLA have been omitted from the Semester 2 Report for 2020. |
| 5 Point scale for Effort Descriptors |
Previous Academic Reports contained Commitment to Learning Descriptors, these have been replaced with a 5 point scale outlining the effort demonstrated by the student during learning activities. |
| Positive Behaviours for Learning (PB4L) Description |
The format used to report on PB4L has been modified to reflect a more comprehensive range of students’ social skills and behaviours. |
| Inclusion of descriptions for each Key Learning Area (KLA) and Content Strands |
Additional detail has been added to describe the knowledge and skills taught in each KLA. The purpose of this information is to provide parents with a clearer understanding of the teaching and learning taking place. |
Reports will be made available on Compass on Wednesday 9 December.
PB4L Rule: Be Responsible and Respectful
As the Christmas holidays approach, I thought it is a good time to revisit how we can be respectful and responsible online. At St Francis' it is recognised that technology plays an important role in engaging students in education, therefore the school staff incorporates the 3 school rules into all expectations regarding technology across the school.
The school works towards ensuring that effective programs and supports are put in place to encourage the responsible use of technology and to counter the inappropriate use of technology. The raising of student awareness of their safety online is a focused intent of planning where technology is involved in the classroom.
It is important to emphasise that the use of technology in the school environment is as a tool for learning. Devices are not used at school for gaming or social networking.
What can I do to help to keep my children safe online?
Online safety is a whole of community issue and it is vital that parents and carers are included in the conversation. This newsletter is aimed to raise awareness and develop a greater understanding of your child’s online behaviour, the risks associated with digital devices.
Often parents can become confused or are unsure as to how much time their children should spend using online devices. Consider the following when you are asking yourself the question: How much is too much?
Your child may be spending too much time online if their online behaviour is having a negative impact on other aspects of their life.
To many parents it can seem as though children and young people are constantly online. Often they are multitasking; for example downloading and listening to music while studying and chatting with friends or sending messages on their mobile phones.
The number of hours children and young people spend online can vary significantly. There is no guideline for the ‘right’ amount of time for children to spend online, however if their online behaviour appears to impact negatively on their behaviour or wellbeing, or that of the family, it may be time to discuss expectations and establish time limits.
What can you do?
● The longer you wait to address the issue, the more difficult it can be to overcome. So if you see an emerging problem arising from excessive use, act on it right away.
● Talk to your child about the concerns you have and monitor what games, apps and devices are bought or used by your child
● You may like to install a filter on the laptop or computer your child is using which can be adjusted to limit the amount of time an internet connection will be available on that device.
● Consider implementing family agreements about the amount of time your children can spend online. You might like to have a rule where the ‘wifi password of the day’ is only given once all homework/chores/family time is done. A similar approach can be used to limit access to devices.
● For iphone and/or ipad users, there is a new feature of iOS 12 called ‘Screen Time’. It lets you know howmuch time you and your children spend on apps, websites, and more. This way, you can make moreinformed decisions about how you use your devices, and set limits if you'd like to.
● If your child seems particularly anxious or irritable, or you notice them seeming isolated from friends or other activities, there may be an underlying mental health issue. Consider getting help from school counsellors or your GP who can refer your child to a professional psychologist.
To remain consistently updated about your child’s use of technology, further information is available in the iParent portal at www.esafety.gov.au
Morning Drop Off
Thank you to those parents who are remaining in their car and moving on promptly as they drop your children off each morning. This is a legal requirement in the Drop Off Zone (as it also is in the afternoon). We will not be opening the top gate near the Hall, as we have noticed that a lot of parents are not moving up to the double gates when dropping off. All students will now enter through the main gates. If any parents have any concerns around the cars at drop off, please contact the Wollongong Council.
As this is the last full newsletter for 2020, I would like to thank everyone for their support this year. I truly appreciated the families being calm and patient during this COVID-19 year and particularly for adhering to the expectations regarding pick-up, for not congregating near the gates and the marvellous preparation and reassurance you gave your child as they returned to school. Your support has been magnificent! The children demonstrated independence and real pride in the way they arrived each morning and left each afternoon. I am really proud of them!! I hope everyone has a very holy and happy Christmas.
First Communion
Last Saturday 28 November, twenty-three students from our school and parish celebrated their First Communion. It was a beautiful, sunny day and all the children looked beautiful. Fr David celebrated two Masses so that more family and friends could attend. We congratulate and thank all students, parents and teachers for preparing and presenting these children.
Thanksgiving Mass for the Friars
On Sunday 22 November Bishop Brian celebrated a farewell Mass for the Franciscan Friars after 65 years of dedicated ministry and leadership in our parish. This Mass was by invitation only due to COVID-19 restrictions. We are very grateful for all the work the Franciscans have done in our parish. Please keep all members of the Franciscan Order in your prayers.
End of Year Mass and Liturgy
On Friday 11 December, the school will be celebrating a Thanksgiving Mass for Years
3-6 and a special Thanksgiving Liturgy for K-2. During these celebrations, end of Year Awards will be announced and Kindergarten Graduation Certificates will be presented. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 restrictions parents and friends are unable to attend.
Activate
Yesterday, our Year 6 students were involved in an Immersive Spiritual Experience –Retreat Day. The focus for the day was based on the Year 6 Religious Education unit, Confirmation: Celebrating the Gift of the Holy Spirit. The day was organised by Catholic Youth Ministry Wollongong. The students enjoyed participating in the many spiritual activities and their sausage sizzle lunch.
Graduation Year 6
On Tuesday 8 December Year 6 students will celebrate their Graduation Mass and Awards. This year has been very difficult for these students but they have managed to finish this year on a positive note. It will be wonderful to see them graduate as a group with a special Mass, awards and a gathering in the hall. Each student will be allowed to have two guests present for the Mass. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, only students and teachers will be allowed in the hall for the gathering.
Christmas Message from the REC
Without doubt, Christmas is a fantastic time! The promise of peace, goodwill and a growing sense of excitement and expectation, makes this time of year very special indeed. However, the question must be asked, “What is truly the message of Christmas?” As our Gospel tells us, Jesus Christ, the living message of peace and goodwill, was born in a stable because there was no room for Mary or Joseph. They were about to give birth, and yet at a time of great expectation for them, the only small mercy offered was a stable with the animals. They were lonely and afraid. These expectant parents were excluded and outcast. Was this the best that could be done for the impending birth of the person who promised us so much? The message this child brings to the world is one of unconditional love and acceptance. He welcomes all human beings in all their great variety as ‘Children of God’. He believes in their essential goodness and loves them all. This love is not held back or reluctant, it is spontaneous, unquestioning and all-embracing. Çhristmas is certainly a time for celebration with those that we love and hold most dear. The 2020 school year has certainly been challenging. We have achieved as a community so much, in a very different format. However, we must put 2020 behind us and move forward to hopefully a more peaceful 2021.
Thank you to everyone who has supported me, as REC, and also supported the school and parish to make sure that our students enjoyed and celebrated a faith-filled year.
Have a blessed and holy Christmas and a wonderful New Year.
Mrs Madaschi
Religious Education Coordinator
Year 6 will be holding another Ice Cream Day on Monday to support their end of year celebrations. Please bring some money along to buy an ice cream or two.
Thank you for your support.
A huge congratulations to all the students who participated in the Premier’s Reading Challenge in 2020.
What a year!!! We had fifty-eight students successfully complete the challenge. These students will receive their participation certificates in the coming days.
For the first time, we have five students who will receive a medal for their 4th consecutive year of participating in the Premier’s Reading Challenge. Congratulations to Olivia A, Benjamin A, Samuel A, Monique D and Thomas W. These medals will be presented at our final assembly. We are incredibly proud of each of you and hope that you all continue your reading into the holidays.
Monday 14 December
Students will participate in activities, a talent quest and can wear Christmas themed clothes.
We look forward to celebrating this fun day.
Wednesday 9 December.
Please come along and show us your talent!
We would love your help with these donations:
| Kindergarten | Jam and sweet biscuits |
| Year 1 | Tinned fruit and long life custard |
| Year 2 | Christmas cake, Christmas puddings |
| Year 3 | Packets of chips, lollies |
| Year 4 | Sweet biscuits and savoury biscuits |
| Year 5 | Soft drink and cordial |
| Year 6 | Chocolates and pancake mix |
Donations are due to school by Thursday 9 December.
The Tops, Stanwell Park
Dear Parents and Carers,
With the summer holidays quickly approaching, this may give families the opportunity to spend more time together.
This could also present a great chance to speak with your children about expectations of online safety and rules in your household. Please see the attached flyer for further information and practical support you can use at home. As always, we are always happy to help support you - just get in touch with myself or the office and we will be able to assist.
Thank you for all of your support throughout this challeging year. We are blessed to be part of such a wonderful community. I look forward to seeing you and working together in 2021.
Mr Murphy
Cricket
Next Friday morning, 11 December, Year 6 will be involved in a cricket clinic to be held at the school. Each class will be participate in fun skill development games and it will be run by Cricket NSW. The students MUST wear their sport uniform on the day.
Swimming Carnival
Due to the Covid-19 restrictions that were in place, this did not allow the students to participate in the swimming lessons which also resulted in the cancellation of our school swimming carnival this year. The swimming carnival has been scheduled to be held on Thursday February 11, 2021 at Berkeley Pool. Permission notes will be issued in the first week of school, inviting competitors from Year 3 to 6 to participate in the 50m events in freestyle, backstroke, breastroke and butterfly. This carnival is ONLY for capable and proficient swimmers. From this carnival, students will be chosen to attend the South Coast Regional Swimming Carnival. The school holidays would be a great time to practice their strokes and improve their skills.
Let's Catch Up
Parents and Carers are warmly invited to join us for a "catch up" on
Monday 7 December at 3.15 pm
This is a very relaxed catch up to check in on everyone and have a chat
about what has been happening in and around our school.
Due to our current COVID-19 plans and procedures, please RSVP
by email to info@sfawdow.catholic.edu.au to confirm your attendance.
We thank them both for their dedication and support to the school P&F committee.
Vi has been an asset, not only to our P&F but also to the larger school community.
On behalf of the St Francis of Assisi school community, we all wish all our leaving families the very best in the future.
Happy Birthday to the following students and
staff who are celebrating their birthdays
in December: Karem, Mohamad.JB, Mois, Samuel.D, Lauren.C, Braedyn, Gabriel, Aleya, Amara, Hudson, Aya, Fatima.K, Sara.E, Mrs George and Mr Murphy.
2020 School Fees are required to be paid in full by the end of the year. Please contact the School Office if you require an extension or if you are having financial difficulty. A fee Concession Application form can be provided for you to complete and return.
The Catholic Education Office Wollongong manages the school fee accounts and they also send the monthly statements via email. Your school fee account can be viewed by logging into your Compass Parent Portal.
Please do not hesitate to contact the School Office if we can be of any assistance.
2021 Canteen Manager Position Available
St Francis of Assisi is seeking expressions of interest from suitable candidates for the role of Canteen Manager for the tender of the school canteen, commencing 2021 with school enrolments of approximately 200.
In this role, we are looking for someone who is creative and able to work collaboratively with the school community and have a 'students first' focus. Duties include supervising, maintaining and delivering school canteen services.
Please email your expression of interest to info@sfawdow.catholic.edu.au by Friday 11 December or contact 4274 3386 for further information.
2022 Compulsory School Uniform requirements
When returning to school for the 2021 school year, it is required all students are in the correct school uniform including sport polo, navy shorts, girl's summer tunic and wearing the correct black leather school shoes and predominately white school joggers for sport. Parents are requested to purchase predominately white joggers when your child requires new shoes or at the start of the 2021 school year, thereby adhering to the School Uniform Policy.
Pictorial examples of appropriate joggers.
2022 - Sports shoes do not need to be expensive; they can have some colour on them but must be predominately white. Thank you for your continued support.
Haircuts
Many thanks to those parents who ensure their children have haircuts that meet the expectations for students at St Francis of Assisi. Students are required to wear their hair in a neat and tidy manner.
- Haircuts should be of an even cut - extreme shaving.
- Hair should be brushed and combed.
- Hair should not be in a condition as to invite comment.
- Long hair is to be tied back or plaited, off the face and should not extend to cover the eyes.
- Only navy, blue or yellow headbands, ribbons or scrunchies are to be worn in the hair.
- Extreme styles, colouring or dyeing of hair is not permitted
Year 6 2022 Polo Shirt
Students will have the opportunity to order a Year 6 polo next year. Please do not purchase a new Sport polo, as they will have the Year 6 polo to wear for sports.
Casual or permanent after school care bookings are available. This service is available in the school hall.
CatholicCare OSHC - St Francis of Assisi is staffed by a dedicated team of education professionals who are university trained early childhood teachers or TAFE trained Diploma educators who support and respect the uniqueness and individuality of children and their families. Our goal is to ensure that educators support and facilitate children’s social skills and self-confidence.
Our educators collaborate with children to provide play and leisure opportunities that are meaningful to them and that support their wellbeing, learning and personal development. Children in school-age care settings are challenged to be curious about what is of interest to them while at the same time developing self-identity and social competencies (taken from MY TIME, OUR PLACE Framework for School Age Care in Australia).
The day to day operations of St Francis of Assisi OSHC is managed by a Coordinator and supported by CatholicCare OSHC Leadership Team.
Melissa Farrell
OOSH Coordinator
0447 623 580
warrawongoosh@catholiccare.dow.org.au
