St Patrick's Newsletter

Mrs Makeham


Reflecting on Our Athletics Carnival

Our Athletics Carnival on Tuesday was a testament to the spirit of our students and community. Despite the miserable weather, the whole day went ahead with energy and enthusiasm. (We've come to expect nothing less of our sports-loving clientele!)

Sport is a very serious business at St Pat's and our students approached each event with their usual determination. They gave their best, pushing through the chill and displaying strong commitment. Beyond the competition, the conduct of our students was outstanding. They showed sportsmanship, offering encouragement and accepting outcomes with grace. Their behaviour throughout the day reflected well on their families and our school. I couldn't be more proud of your kids!

 

This event was made possible by the support of our parent volunteers. Thank you to the parents who assisted with timekeeping, field events and the barbecue.  A special thank you to James and Lisa P-K for their barbecuing and canteen contributions at athletics carnivals over the last 9 years.  Thank you to Emma Wauch for organising the morning tea stall and BBQ.

 

Thank you also to Karen Rizzi and Sally Pittman for their organisational and planning skills. These two ladies worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the rest of us had a stress-free, happy day. Thanks also to the teachers and Educational Assistants... stars the lot of them.

 

This collective effort highlights the strength of our community. It was a day of effort, camaraderie, community spirit and pretty terrific kids!

ICAS Assessments 2025: Key Dates Approaching

The annual International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS) are just around the corner for 2025, offering students an opportunity to challenge their academic skills in various subjects. These online assessments are designed to recognise and reward academic excellence, encouraging higher-order thinking and problem-solving abilities.

 

ICAS Assessments cover a range of subjects, including:

  • Digital Technologies

     

  • Writing

     

  • English

     

  • Science

     

  • Spelling Bee

     

  • Mathematics

     

For many subjects, the main sitting windows will occur in August 2025. 

 

ICAS provides a valuable benchmark for students, allowing them to see how their performance compares against peers nationally and internationally. All participating students receive a certificate, with top performers also eligible for Distinction, High Distinction, and even medals.

 

How to participate in ICAS  

If you wish for your child to participate in ICAS this year, please:  

  1. read about ICAS subjects and prices here: (icasassessments.com/products-icas)  
  2. go to Parent Portal to purchase tests here: https://shop.icasassessments.com/pages/parent-payment/YHA639  
  3. enter the parent’s access code – YHA639
  4. enter your child’s details, select the tests you would like to purchase, then proceed to payment.  

 

 

The Winner of 'Wearing Uniform With Pride' Award Is.......

This week Will Lisle has been awarded the 'Wearing Uniform With Pride' award.

Will is being congratulated for consistently demonstrating pride in both winter and sports uniforms.

 

 

Semester 1 Reports 

Teachers are busily analysing student data and writing progress reports for semester 1. These reports will be on Compass parent portal. Should you have any questions after reviewing your child's report, please feel free to contact their class teacher during Week 10. 

 

The Semester 1 Report provides parents with an overview of their child's achievement and development in all key learning areas, as well as their level of engagement and socialinteraction.

 

The government requires a five scale grading system. In place of the A-E grade, a new language is being used to describe the level of knowledge and skills demonstrated by each child. This is comprehensively explained in your child's report.

 

 

SCHOOL HOURS

Supervision of students commences at 8:30am. Students should not be on-site until after 8:30 AM. 

Contacting Your Child's Teacher

Teachers welcome contact from parents, if you need to talk with staff please either contact the class teacher by phoning the school – 67772328 or email the school at spwadmin@arm.catholic.edu.au.