RE and Wellbeing News

Messages from Mr Andrew Butler

Mary Help of Christians is the Patroness of Australia. The establishment of the feast has an interesting history, and a unique place in the Catholic history of Australia. The feast focusses on Mary's help to those in need.

We will be celebrating the Feast of Mary Help of Christians on 24th May at 11:45am in the St Agatha's Church. Parents are welcome to join us.

The Sacrament of Confirmation program is well underway and this week the parents and children took part in a special workshop to explore the meaning of Confirmation and prepare for the Sacrament. Please pray for all our Year 6 Confirmation candidates as they prepare to receive this very important an significant sacrament.

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SCHOOL REFUSAL -- SCHOOL TV

School refusal, sometimes called school avoidance or school phobia, is not uncommon. It is different to ‘wagging’ or truancy and is often related to worry or anxiety-related issues about going to school. School refusal may start gradually or happen suddenly. Although it is normal for a child to occasionally miss a day of school, parents should only be concerned if a child regularly complains about feeling sick or often asks to stay home due to minor physical complaints.

School refusal is a complex issue as there is rarely a single cause. It affects children of all ages across primary and secondary levels. It can often occur during times of transition at school. More recently, the Coronavirus pandemic has disrupted the educational experience of all students, affecting some more than others. Dealing with a school refusal child can affect the whole family, adding pressure to an already challenging time. School refusal is not considered a formal psychiatric diagnosis. It’s a name given to an emotional and/or behavioural problem.

In this edition of SchoolTV, adult carers will learn how best to approach this issue and work towards a solution.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this edition of SchoolTV and we always welcome your feedback. If you have any concerns about your child, please contact the school counsellor for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to the School Refusal edition of SchoolTV https://stacbourne.catholic.schooltv.me/newsletter/school-refusal