Principals' Message
A message from Alison and Lisa
Dear Parents/Carers,
As the saying goes we are "back in the swing of things" here at St Edward's school and it has been wonderful to witness the way the students have settled back into their routines and classroom learning so quickly. Children thrive on structure and routine and we thank our staff for supporting our children and creating a learning environment where they feel happy and connected. Thank you also to you, our parents and carers, for ensuring your children are ready to start their school day with everything they need, including correct uniform. This contributes to the overall pastoral care and well-being of our students which is essential for them to engage in their learning.
"It is in your hands to create a better world for all who live in it" ....Nelson Mandela
As part of our return from the break enforced by COVID-19 and to acknowledge National Reconciliation Week, every student and staff have been given a hand template to decorate with their name for display around our school. These hands remind us that together we can do so much and how important it is for each of us to play our part in creating a better world, with love and respect. #inthistogether
Special Visit
On Tuesday we welcomed School Performance Leaders Mr Jason Hanrahan and Mr Rod Whelan from the Catholic Schools Office. They met with many of our staff and students as they toured both campuses. They were very impressed with the way our children were engaged in their learning and how happy they were being back with their classmates and teachers. We were particularly proud of our senior students who went out of their way to welcome them with a friendly "hello" and smile. A wonderful example of manners and positive behaviour.
Winter Uniform Reminder
Our St Edward's School uniform is something that sets us apart from other schools and something which should be worn with pride. We wish to advise parents that the official date for changeover from summer to winter uniform is this June long weekend (Tuesday 9th June). Please ensure this includes the correct black school shoes (not sport shoes) and a school tie. The following new school winter items are available for purchase: jumper ($35), jacket ($70), tie ($25), girls navy knee high socks ($10), girls winter navy tights ($10), scarf ($10). To help minimise parent contact, our preferred method of purchasing uniform items is via the Qkr! App and your clothing order will then be sent home with your child.
Sports Uniform
To accommodate our students (for physical activities) and parents (for washing!) all students are now permitted to wear their sports uniform to school on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Three Way Learning Conversations - Semester 1 Reporting
This year we are conducting a Learning Conversation between the student, parent/carer and teacher. This will replace the written Semester 1 Report. Three way conversations are an opportunity for learning to be discussed between students, parents/caregivers and teachers. The aim of these conferences is to celebrate success, highlight student strengths and current achievement and then determine the next learning steps. It also allows for student ownership of learning. Following these meetings parents/caregivers should have a clearer picture of their child’s developmental learning needs and goals for Semester 2. We are excited to be able to use the Parent Portal in Compass to offer online booking for our Semester 1 Learning conversations. Parents can log in to Compass and book a convenient time with your son/daughter's class teacher. If you have not yet logged into Compass, please contact the office to have your login details sent to you. Learning Conversations are scheduled for Week 8 and 9 this term. The Compass Portal opened this week for parent bookings. We look forward to these learning conferences and thank you for your on-going support in working together to provide quality educational opportunities for all our students. Please make sure that you do make an appointment to engage in these very worthwhile Learning Conversations.
Kinder 2021 Interviews
Next Tuesday we will commence our Kindergarten 2021 interviews. This is an important process which allows us to plan staffing and other organisational matters for 2021. If you are aware of anyone wishing to enrol their child for 2021, but are yet to complete and hand in an enrolment form, please encourage them to contact our Infants Campus Office as soon as possible to ensure they do not miss the opportunity for an interview.
Health and Hygiene
We remind parents that your child’s mental health and well-being is an important consideration in the decision to have them return to school. Centacare has expanded its services to ensure that support can still be provided during this period. Students are still able to access the free and confidential counselling service by calling Centacare Armidale on 6738 7200.
Students Who Become Unwell at School
Knowing whether a child is well enough to attend school can be tough. Any students showing symptoms of illness will be required to go home until symptoms are resolved. Attached is a guide to help you decide if your child should stay home:
Cakes at School
Even though we are back to full time face to face teaching, there are some things we still cannot do at school eg. sport and assemblies. Unfortunately another activity we can't partake in at present is the sharing of birthday cakes. We thank you in advance for supporting us in this matter.
Have a great long weekend everyone...stay warm!
Alison Hatton and Lisa McSweeney