PRIMARY NEWS 

from the Assistant Principals  

Welcome Back for Term 4!

We welcome back our students and staff for Term 4! Mrs Koch is on leave until Week 6, and Mrs Fraser will be working alongside Mrs Wait as Co-Primary Assistant Principals during this time. We have a FULL term ahead with many great experiences for our students in the classroom, across the school, on the sporting field and on the many excursions planned this year! 

Excursions

We have exciting excursions coming up. 

Please ensure that you have given consent via Compass and checked for when final instalments are due. 

Year 5, parents have received a link to the Sport and Recreation page.  If you are yet to complete this, we ask you to please complete this link by Friday 25 October.  This will allow for planning and organisation to take place.  If you have any concerns or require support, please contact the office.

Debating 

Debating is a formal, structured argument where two opposing sides present and defend their positions on a specific topic or resolution. More than just arguing, it involves research, critical analysis, and the ability to construct a logical, persuasive case using evidence and reasoning. Participants learn to articulate their thoughts clearly, listen actively to their opponents' arguments, and think quickly to provide effective rebuttals. This powerful exercise enhances public speaking skills, promotes tolerance for differing viewpoints, and develops vital critical thinking abilities. 

We congratulate our Stage 3 Debating Team on their recent success as part of the Armidale Catholic Schools Debating competition.  The team had three debates that included topics on zoos and social media.  The team consisted of Audrey Stewart, Kate Parella, Masey Fittler, Maddie Steptoe, George Devlin, Henry McCosker, Will Bloch, Tom Ditchfeld and Ben de Stefani.

"The best part was getting to work with new people in a fun out-of-class environment. I learnt how to debate, and it will be fun to do more" - Audrey Stewart.

"I feel the best part was being able to connect with people on the same path that are like minded. I connected well with the people I cooperated with. It was a privilege to learn new skills and techniques. I really want to be on the debating team next year." - Kate Parrella 

"We would always get our work done, and there was always an opportunity with Mrs Taylor to have some fun while we were doing the work. She helped us a lot with rebuttals, which is when you make an argument to the opposing team to show why their point is wrong." - Will Bloch

"Debating is a great way to get better at your persuasive writing. I am now able to create stronger arguments and have reasons to back them up, and have learnt so much." - Henry McCosker 

A huge thank you to Mrs Taylor for her coaching of the team by sharing her time and skills to support our team, and we commend them on their equal first place across Armidale Catholic Schools. 

Class Reps for Term 4 

Thank you to our Term 3 Class Representatives, and congratulations to the following students who are our Class Representatives for Term 4

Replenish Classroom Supplies 

It is time to restock! 📚 As the school year progresses, essential classroom supplies naturally get used up. We are asking for your support in replenishing items that help keep our students learning effectively. Please check with your child about pencils, glue sticks, pens, rulers, and headphones to ensure they are working. 

Uniform Pride and Sun Safety

As we embrace the upcoming warm weather, remember our school uniform is a visual representation of our community and shared values. Students are encouraged to wear their uniform with pride. A reminder to ensure that students have their school hat for all outdoor activities, including lunch, recess and outdoor classes. 

We remind our students of the importance of hydration and the importance of having access to a reusable water bottle. Our playground is looking amazing with our recent upgrades to the infants' area and plenty of shade and trees accessible for a cool down. Healthy Eating options are reflected in our canteen offerings, which will feature a greater variety of fresh fruits, salads, and lighter, nutrient-rich meals to help maintain the energy needed for a busy school day. We thank you for your support to ensure a safe and productive conclusion to the school year.

This week's Primary Assembly Award recipients:

Cam Dyer-Cleal, Tori Brown, Lillian Rogers, Fallon James, Adaline Vickery, Hollie Hoskins, Hallie Cutmore, Beau George, Maddison Worgan, Hunter Brown, Noah Brentnall, Callum Gleeson, Vivienne Shepherd, Willow Forsyth, Shayaan Narain, Clarence Marere, Shivani Biju, Minhaya Sargeant, Harrison Curtin, Willow Turner, Cooper Irwin, Roman Donnelly, Ashton Relf, Ruby Waddell, Evelyn Ryan, Hudson Fischer, Thea Kimmince, Ethan Leader, Amelia Fisher, Lilly Pottie, Jackson Ford, Maddison Waddell, Jack McMahon, Blakely Ria, Layla Hancock, Ayda Murphy, Madeline Mitrega, Bailey Brand, Audrey Stewart, Levi Swadling, Sienna Irwin, Carter Cumming, Laci-Ann David, Leo Schiller, Ralph Miller, Fallyn Slade-Pearce, Ruby Pagden, Percy Lee, Zachary Read, Imogen Emmerson-Seppl, Stirling Shepherd, Zahara Kimmince, Maisie Fuda-Riley, Rigzin Tshogyal, Mishie Kuhn, Milly Dunlop, Evelyn Jinesh and Porsche Lloyd.