Assistant Principal Message

Dear Parents and Carers,

In the coming weeks, we'll be sharing a range of resources with you that Sydney Catholic Schools have provided. These articles offer valuable tips and support to help guide you on your parenting journey.

Parenting Tips Newsletter: Effective Behavior Management for Children

Managing children's behaviour can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can foster a positive and respectful environment at home. Here are some practical tips to help you guide your child's behaviour effectively.

Understanding Behavior

1. Identify Triggers: Pay attention to what triggers your child's behaviour. Understanding the root cause can help you address the issue more effectively.

2. Consistency is Key: Children thrive on consistency. Ensure that rules and consequences are consistent and predictable.

Positive Reinforcement

1. Praise and Rewards: Acknowledge and reward good behaviour. Positive reinforcement encourages children to repeat desirable actions.

2. Set Clear Expectations: Clearly communicate what behaviour is expected. Use simple and direct language that your child can understand. 

Effective Communication

1. Active Listening: Show your child that you are listening by making eye contact and responding appropriately. This helps them feel heard and valued.

2. Calm and Clear Instructions: Give instructions in a calm and clear manner. Avoid shouting or using negative language.

Setting Boundaries

1. Establish Rules: Set clear and fair rules that are appropriate for yourchild's age. Make sure they understand the consequences of breaking these rules.

2. Follow Through: Consistently follow through with consequences when rules are broken. This helps children understand the importance of boundaries.

Modeling Behaviour

1. Lead by Example: Children often imitate the behaviour of adults. Model the behaviour you want to see in your child.

2. Stay Calm: Manage your own emotions and stay calm, even in challenging situations. This teaches your child how to handle their emotions.

Problem-Solving Skills

1. Encourage Problem-Solving: Help your child develop problem-solving skills by encouraging them to think of solutions to conflicts or issues.

2. Teach Empathy: Encourage your child to consider how their actions affect others. Teaching empathy can reduce negative behaviours.

By implementing these strategies, you can create a supportive and structured environment that promotes positive behaviour in your children.

SCS Artists’ Evolution Instrumental Ensembles 2025 Expressions of Interest

SCS are excited to announce the resumption of the Amadeus Artists’ Evolution instrumental Ensembles.

This is a fabulous opportunity for an additional musical experience within the Amadeus Program. Students will perform engaging repertoire in a large ensemble, led by a professional conductor. They will rehearse alongside advanced players from other schools and have the opportunity to play more challenging music. These ensembles will be showcased with performances at local community events, and other opportunities within Sydney Catholic Schools. 

Weekly rehearsals will be scheduled for one afternoon per week, the locations of which will be announced after Expression of Interest are collated. Rehearsals will commence in Term 2. Performances will be booked in for Terms 3 & 4, with Christmas at the Cathedral booked in for Term 4.

How to submit an Expression of Interest? 

Complete this form by Wednesday 26 March (audition link will be sent following your Expression of Interest, videos are due Friday 28 March)

When will rehearsals take place? 

Tuesdays after school, from 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Which instruments can join?

This program is an extension of the Amadeus Program and is available to all instruments (Strings, Woodwind, Brass and Percussion) in the program. Other instruments such as Piano, Bass and Guitar will also be considered for participation.

Which Year Levels can participate?

Years 5 to 11

If you have any other questions please contact amadeus@syd.catholic.edu.au. 

Staff Development Day Monday 24th March

Please note that on Monday of Week 8, 24th March, we will be having a Sutherland Shire Curriculum Reform Network Staff Development Day. There will be no supervision onsite and if you require care for your children please contact SCECS OSHC Our Lady Star of the Sea, Miranda.

Family News and Blessings

Warm wishes and blessings are being shared with the Williams family who welcomed a beautiful baby girl to the family on Wednesday this week. Baby Dakota is sister to Tyler C (6B) and we are delighted to welcome her to the OLSS Community!

Mrs Louise Fairhall

Assistant Principal