May is going to be hectic!!

Based on the weather we have experienced this week, it is evident that Winter is approaching. Really, we have been fortunate with the weather so far this year, but now I find myself wearing my overcoat and school beanie while on duty. Nevertheless, this change was inevitable. Moving on, we are almost done with the first full week of this term, and upon reviewing the calendar, it seems that the next four weeks will be extremely busy as there are several events in which the majority of our students will participate in the near future.

MOTHER'S DAY

We extend our warmest wishes to all mothers, grandmothers, and female mentors on this special Mother's Day. This day holds significance as it provides an opportunity to honour and commemorate the lives of those who hold great importance in our hearts

Mother's Day has its roots in modest origins dating back to 1908 when it was established as a straightforward custom to pay tribute to mothers, both living and deceased. Nevertheless, it wasn't long before florists, confectioners, and card companies seized the opportunity to capitalize on the occasion and turn it into a commercialized event, much to the chagrin of its initiator, Ann Jarvis.

Mother's Day serves as an annual occasion to express gratitude towards mothers and other significant caregivers who hold a vital place in our lives. However, it is crucial that we commemorate this day with genuine affection and sincerity, ensuring our appreciation is heartfelt and genuine.

Mother's Day Celebrations at St Patrick's

Regrettably, I was unable to participate in our annual Mother's Day Breakfast as I was overseeing the Polding Boys Football Trials in Tamworth. However, I have been informed that the event was a great success. I would like to extend my gratitude to Amy Clark and her team for coordinating the event. Their efforts are truly appreciated. I would also like to thank Bec Partridge for organising and managing the Mother's Day stall that took place earlier today.

Apologies

I previously stated in the latest newsletter that I would be distributing a survey to all families this week to gather feedback on the proposed changes to our school uniform. However, because several teaching staff members are absent, I have been occupied with teaching duties for most of the week and have struggled to balance my roles as principal and teacher. I intend to send out the survey next week.

Mitch Tambo Performance

On Monday, St Patrick's hosted a truly fantastic performance by Mitch Tambo. The energy was palpable as the students and staff cheered and danced along to the beat of his music.

Tambo's set was a blend of traditional Indigenous sounds and modern pop music, creating a unique and electrifying experience for everyone in attendance. His talent as a musician and performer was evident in every note he played and every move he made on stage.

What made the performance even more special was the message behind Tambo's music. He used his platform to raise awareness about the importance of embracing Indigenous culture and promoting understanding and respect for Indigenous Australians.

The students were moved by Tambo's words and his passion for his culture. Many left the performance feeling inspired and motivated to learn more about Indigenous history and culture.

Tambo's performance was a reminder of the power of music to bring people together and to inspire positive change. It was a truly unforgettable experience that left a lasting impact on all those who were lucky enough to be in attendance.

Polding Winter Trials

Congratulations to Grace F, Jessica, and Angus for their outstanding representation of St Patrick's and the diocese at the Polding Winter Trials for Girl's and Boy's Hockey in Tamworth last Friday. It is commendable to hear that all three students excelled in their performances and should take pride in their achievements.

It was wonderful news to learn that Jessica has been chosen to represent Polding in Girls Hockey at the NSWPSSA Hockey Carnival in Newcastle starting Tuesday, May 28th. Jessica, you should feel extremely proud of your accomplishment, as you have demonstrated that you are among the top hockey players from all Catholic Primary Schools in the Northern region of NSW. You will be facing off against the most talented hockey players from all over the state. Congratulations!

OPEN MORNING for 2025 Kindergarten Students - 14th May 9:30am-11am

Our open morning will be held this upcoming Thursday May 14th from 9:30am - 11am.

The Open Morning provides parents with the chance to discover what St Patrick's School can offer their children. Parents can engage with the faculty, take a tour of the campus, and partake in a morning tea. Transition students are also welcome to participate in activities with the current Kindergarten class.

Should you be aware of individuals with a child preparing to begin school in the upcoming year, or individuals interested in exploring our school and its offerings, we kindly request that you extend an invitation to them for our Open Morning.

Enrolments are now open for Kindergarten 2025.

Our school open morning for Kindergarten will be Tuesday 14th May 2024.

Please contact the school for an enrolment package - 67772328 or email

spwadmin@arm.catholic.edu.au

P&F Meeting

The next P&F meeting will be held this upcoming Tuesday 14th May at 6pm in the library as well as being broadcasted via Zoom. All parents and friends are welcome to attend.

Welcome Dr Cameron

Author Visit – Dr Cameron Stelzer, The Story Doctor

On Monday 13 May, we have a special visit from Author and Illustrator Dr Cameron Stelzer. DrCameron is visiting St Patrick’s Primary School to run workshops with our K-6 students. Kinderstudents will enjoy an interactive Big Screen Book Reading and follow-along drawing activitywith Cameron. Year 1-2 students will participate in a writing workshop focusing on idea formation and inspirations for narratives. Cameron will be engaging Year 3-6 students in a workshop exploring exciting and descriptive writing. Students and teachers are looking forward to a great day!

In conjunction with the Author Visit, St Patrick’s Primary School families have a special opportunity to purchase signed and personalised copies of Cameron’s books at special prices.Individual books are $10-$15 each and there are also exclusive book sets available. Students will receive an order form on the day of the workshops (payment is via the online payment portal listed on the form; no cash). Forms can be returned the following day, to the Office.

Life Education Visit

This upcoming Monday and Tuesday the students will be taking part in their annual Life Education sessions.

THE 40TH ARMIDALE EISTEDDFOD 2024

Earlier in the week, we received the program of events for the Eisteddfod. Our Infants and Primary choirs have been scheduled to perform at Lazenby Hall on Thursday 23rd May from 12.30pm.

At the moment, we haven't received any information about ticketing, as soon as I find out, I will let everyone know.

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

Ella is the recipient of our inaugural 'Wearing Uniform With Pride' award for this term. We extend our congratulations to her for consistently showcasing pride in both her school and sports uniforms.

Australian Early Development Census

From May 2024, our school, along with thousands of others across the country, will participate in the Australian Early Development Census (AEDC).

The AEDC is a teacher-completed census (similar to a questionnaire) which provides a comprehensive picture of how children have developed by the time they start their first year of full-time school.

The AEDC is an Australian Government Initiative and is completed nationally every three years. Children don’t miss any class time while the AEDC is completed, and parents/carers don’t need to supply schools with any new information.

The data collected through the AEDC is used by schools, communities and governments to better understand children and families’ needs, and identify the services, resources and support they need. AEDC data is reported at a school, community, state/territory and national level. AEDC results for individual children are not reported and the AEDC is not used as an individual diagnostic tool.

Some teachers have found that completing the AEDC made them more aware of the needs of individual children and their class, and that the data was useful for planning for transitions to Year 1 and developing programs. Participation in the AEDC is voluntary, however, the AEDC relies on all schools with children in their first year of full-time school participating in the collection.

Playground Update - Soft fall surfacing this week.

2024 Remaining Staff Development Days (PD Days)

Monday 22nd July (First day of Term 3)

Monday 14th October (First day of Term 4)

Friday 20th December (Last day of Term 4)

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.

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