Mr Hyatt
A big fortnight ahead!
I have just came to the realisation that the end of the school year is fast approaching and life at school is bustling with activity! This time of year is always a whirlwind of events, celebrations, and final preparations, and our school community is feeling the excitement and energy that comes with it.
From wrapping up lessons and projects to organising special events and celebrations, there is so much happening each day. Students are working hard to complete their tasks, while staff are busy planning and ensuring everything runs smoothly. It’s a time filled with joy, creativity, and teamwork as we come together to make the end of the year truly memorable.
While this season can feel hectic, it is also a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the achievements and moments that have made this year special. We encourage everyone to take a moment to pause, appreciate the journey, and enjoy the festive spirit that surrounds us.
Thank you to our students, staff, and families for your ongoing support and effort during this busy period.
Year 1-2's Most Excellent Adventure
Last Friday, the Year 1 and 2 students embarked on an exciting excursion to Thalgarrah, and it turned out to be an unforgettable day filled with exploration, learning, and fun.
Upon arrival, the students enjoyed a quick snack to fuel up for the day’s activities. They were then divided into groups, each armed with a net and bucket, ready to take on the challenge of exploring the river ecosystem. With great enthusiasm, the young explorers waded into the water, eager to discover what lay beneath the surface.
Their efforts were rewarded with a fascinating array of finds! Among the treasures were various nymphs, baby yabbies, a tadpole well on its way to becoming a frog, leeches, worms, and other small creatures. The students’ curiosity and excitement were palpable as they examined their catches. Using identification sheets, they worked together to name the different invertebrates they had captured, turning their discoveries into a hands-on science lesson.
After a well-deserved lunch break, the adventure continued as the students observed their invertebrates under microscopes. This close-up view offered a deeper understanding of the tiny creatures they had found and sparked even more interest in the natural world.
The day wrapped up with a memorable encounter with spiny leaf insects. Some students showed remarkable bravery, carefully holding the insects and marveling at their unique features.
A special thank you goes to Mrs Hoy for her invaluable assistance in supervising the students throughout the day. Her support ensured everything ran smoothly, allowing the children to fully enjoy this fantastic learning experience.
Speaking of Thalgarrah excursions, I want to wish all the Kindergarten students, along with Ms Wilson and Mrs Rizzi, a wonderful time at their Teddy Bear Picnic tomorrow. I must admit, I’m a bit envious that I can’t join them, as I’m currently attending the Principal’s Conference. I can’t wait to hear all about their day and the fun they had!
Last Day of the School Year Excursion
I am thrilled to announce a special treat for all students and staff on the last day of school (for students), Thursday, 19th December. To celebrate the end of a fantastic year, we will be heading to the Forum 6 Cinema in Tamworth for a private screening of Moana 2.
After enjoying the movie, everyone will share lunch together before returning to school just before home time. This fun-filled day is a great way to wrap up the year and celebrate all the hard work and achievements of our students and staff.
Mini Vinnies Talent Quest Round-Up
I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the students who took part in the Mini Vinnies Talent Quest held yesterday. The event showcased an impressive array of talent at St Patrick's, featuring a diverse range of performances. Among the acts presented were puppet shows, dance routines, vocal performances, comedic storytelling, and numerous others. Each performance was exceptional, making it a challenging task for our judges to determine this year's winners
The winners of our Talent Quest were:
1st Place- Fergus, Alfie, Campbell and Jack.
2nd Place- Palesa
3rd Place- Florence, Hannah, Airlee, Josie, Phoebe, Lucy, Nina, Grace F, Penny and Lucie.
Staffing for 2025
I am still finalising all of the staffing arrangements for next year, but I can officially announce the leaders of all classes.
Kindergarten - Ms Wilson and Mrs Hoy (1 day a week)
Year 1 / 2 Mrs Flanagan and Mrs Hoy (1 day a week)
Year 3 / 4 Miss Cattelini
Year 5/ 6 Mrs Davey
Also, I am looking for another Education Assistant in 2025. It is a temporary part-time position (40 hours per fortnight) and applications close this evening.
For more information or how to apply please visit https://arm.catholic.edu.au/job-vacancies/
End of Year Presentation Night - Wednesday 11th December @ WCS
This year we will be having our Presentation Night at the Walcha Multipurpose Centre on the 11th December commencing at 5.30pm. The first part of the night will take approximately an hour, where recognition will be given broadcasting the large number of highlights that we have had over this academic year as well as a number of performances. The second part of the night will be a barbecue, where all members of our school community are invited to join us.
Semester 2 Reporting
At present, the educators are engaged in the preparation of student reports for Semester Two. Parents will have the opportunity to access these reports through the parent portal during Week 9. Should you prefer to receive a printed report, please inform the school.
How to access the Semester Two reports on Compass in Week 9:
Log into Compass
To view the Semester 2 report, click on your child's profile and select report.
Carols by Candlelight - December 10th
The students of St Patrick’s have been invited to sing carols at the Carols by Candlelight event at McHattan Park on Tuesday, 10th December, starting at 7:30 pm.
This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to share their talents and spread the festive spirit within our community. I encourage families to come along and support our students as they perform.
I look forward to seeing you there for an evening of music and celebration!
The Winner of 'Wearing Uniform With Pride' Award For This Week Is.......
Congratulations to Levi O for earning the last 'Wearing Uniform With Pride' award for the year! Well done, Levi O—you should be proud of this achievement. Everyone at St Patrick’s appreciates the way you consistently wear your school and sports uniform with such pride.
Dates for Term 1, 2025
The official start date for the 2025 school year will be Monday 3rd February 2025 for all students in Years 1 - 6.
Kindergarten will commence Thursday 6th February 2025 following Best Start Assessments.
2024 Remaining Staff Development Days (PD Days)
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.