St James Learning and Teaching 

SPORT

Swimming Program

Swimming Caps off to our amazing students who have completed a stellar first week of the swimming program.  All the staff have been absolutely thrilled with the program so far and how well our students are coping with the program but also how much they can see their skills increasing each day.  A huge thank-you to our parents as well for having everyone ready and with their gear each day.  It is much appreciated. Our swimming program's last session will be on Wednesday 22nd November. 

Swimming Carnival

The St James swimming carnival will be held next Thursday 23rd November at Bluefit Swimming Pool, 150 Tulip ST, Sandringham.

Years 3-6 ONLY (Senior)

Please arrive at school by no later than 8.50am

Buses depart : 9am

Carnival begins at approximately: 9.45am

Carnival concludes at approximately: 12.30pm

If time permits we will hold a fun student v teacher relay at the conclusion of the main carnival.

Prep-Year 2 (Junior)

Students to arrive at school as normal.

Buses depart: 10.15am

Carnival begins at approximately 11am

Carnival concludes at approximately 12.30 pm

All buses depart at 12.30pm. As in previous years students are permitted to leave the carnival with their parents. Please ensure you have indicated below if your child will NOT be returning to school so we can book the correct amount of buses.  This Operoo will only be accepting responses until Thursday 16th November in order to organise this.

Please ensure your child brings the following:

• bathers to be worn under their sport uniform
• house coloured cap (these can be purchased at the office for $8) goggles and towel
• plenty of food and snacks
• house coloured t-shirt and/ribbons. No streamers PLEASE

There is also to be NO photography of students other than your own on this day. Parents are to remain in the stands unless you have been given an allocated job my Mrs Mac prior to the carnival. 

Senior students will have the opportunity to compete in four 25m races and 50m races plus a relay. This year we will endeavour to timekeep all 50m races in order to select the St James Swimming team for 2024. 

Junior students will focus on fun, water familiarisation and relays.

Just a reminder that students can be collected from the pool. Please ensure you sign your student out with the classroom teacher prior to departure. 

Looking forward to a fabulous day! 

Tennis

The students have had a wonderful experience learning new skills in Tennis led by Nik Morey.  They have learnt many new skills and have thoroughly enjoyed the activities.

Nik is hoping that they will have discussed Tennis lessons for the future with Parents/Carers. He offers Lessons before and after school at the St. James Tennis courts.

If you are interested, please contact Nik Morey.

Hoop Time Regional Finals

The all star girls  went to the Hoop Time Regional Finals on Wednesday the 15th of November. We were so excited by the time we got there as we had been training since Term 3. We played six games,  won one, Drew one  and lost four.  We did a great job and came third overall.

Thank you to Dave M and Mel F for your amazing coaching and giving up your time to come and help us train at lunch time.  Also thank you to all the players and parents who all helped. 

Also a big thank you to Mrs Mac, who organized it all. 

Peyton and Matilda 

Wellbeing

The Significance of Prayer in the Christmas Season

As the holiday season approaches, the hustle and bustle of festive preparations can sometimes overshadow the true essence of Christmas.  In the midst of the shopping, decorating, and planning, it becomes increasingly important to pause and reflect through prayer.  Here are ten compelling reasons why incorporating prayer into your routine, especially leading up to Christmas, is essential.

• Spiritual Connection: Prayer fosters a deeper connection with the spiritual aspects of Christmas, allowing children and adults to tap into the true meaning of the season.
• Gratitude: Taking time to pray encourages an attitude of gratitude. Reflecting on the blessings in one's life cultivates appreciation for the true gifts of the season. It also builds resilience.
• Peace of Mind: The holiday season can be stressful.  Prayer provides a moment of tranquility, offering individuals a mental and emotional respite from the chaos.
• Reflection on the Birth of Christ: Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.  Prayer allows believers to reflect on this pivotal moment in history and connect with the religious significance of God becoming human to be with us forever.
• Fostering Generosity: Through prayer, individuals are inspired to embrace the spirit of giving. This can lead to increased acts of kindness and generosity during the holiday season. We can teach our kids to pray for those who do not believe in love, who do not hope, and who are in darkness.
• Family Bonding: Incorporating prayer into family traditions strengthens the bonds between family members.  It provides a shared moment of reflection and unity and a chance to say thank you for the things we do for each other.
• Cultivating Patience: The anticipation of Christmas can be challenging.  Prayer encourages patience and a mindful approach to the season, reminding individuals to savour the journey leading up to the celebration.
• Stress Relief: Amidst the hectic holiday preparations, prayer serves as a natural stress reliever. It offers a calming effect, helping individuals navigate the challenges with a sense of peace.
• Connection with Community: Prayer can extend beyond personal reflection to communal gatherings.  Participating in group prayers fosters a sense of community and shared purpose during the Christmas season.  Especially those who will most likely be in the midst of war during this solemn time of the year.
• Setting Positive Intentions: Prayer allows individuals to set positive intentions for the holiday season.  Whether seeking personal growth, strengthened relationships, or a more profound spiritual experience, prayer provides a platform to articulate and manifest these aspirations.

In conclusion, integrating prayer into the weeks leading up to Christmas is a powerful and meaningful practice.  It enriches the holiday experience by fostering spiritual connection, gratitude, and a sense of community, helping individuals to navigate the season with a heart full of joy and purpose.

Praying that you and your family have a fruitful Christmas season.

Blessings,

Corey Payton

Chaplain at St James

Library

Mandi Joplin

Teacher Librarian