Mrs Makeham

Safety - Boundaries and Routines

 I've been thinking about the essential ingredients that allow our students to truly thrive. (You don't want to see the inside of my head!) We often focus on academics and extracurriculars, as we should, but the foundation for all learning lies in a child's sense of safety.

A child who feels safe is a child who is free to learn. When their environment is predictable and stable, they are able to direct their energy toward curiosity and exploration instead of worrying about what might happen next. This feeling of security is the bedrock upon which all academic and social growth is built.

This is where boundaries come in. While they may sometimes be met with a little resistance, boundaries are not meant to be restrictive. Instead, they are like the guardrails on a road—they guide our children and protect them from harm, both physical and emotional. Clear boundaries create a sense of structure and predictability, which in turn fosters a deep sense of safety. They teach our children about respect, self-control, and the importance of considering others, all while reassuring them that there are caring adults looking out for their well-being.

Similarly, routine provides a comforting rhythm to a child's day. Knowing what to expect reduces anxiety and builds confidence. Whether it's our morning assembly, the schedule of classes, or the consistent expectations for homework, these routines act as anchors, giving our students a sense of stability and control over their world. This predictability allows them to let go of their worries and fully engage in the joy of learning.

At St Patrick's, we are committed to creating a community where every child feels seen, heard, and—most importantly—safe. We appreciate your partnership in reinforcing these essential principles. Together, by providing a loving and consistent environment, we can help our children build the confidence and security they need to flourish both inside and outside the classroom.

Confirmation

Our Year 5-6 students are working hard to prepare for the Sacrament of Confirmation on Sunday September 21st at 10:00 am Mass. Bishop Peter Murphy will be at school on the Friday before Confirmation to examine the canditates and visit all classes in the school.

First Reconciliation - Postponed

First Reconcililation has been postponed until later in Term 4 at a date to be announced. 

Pyjama Day

On Friday September 12th we will all come to school in our Pyjamas to raise money for Australian Catholic Missions. (Gold Coin Donation)

Students can wear their P.J's to school with their joggers and a hat. Students ARE NOT permitted to wear nighties or onesies.

Polding

Good luck to Archer, Shaun, Josie, Lucy and Grace Smith when they compete at the Polding Athletics Carnival in Newcastle this Friday. Unfortunately Jess P-K and Benji Provost have had to withdraw from the carnival due to injury. 

We wish our little squad well. We are very proud of you all.

Assembly - Change of Time - (9:10 am)

We will be having a whole school assembly on Friday Septhember 12th at 9:10 am. If you are able to make it; you're more than welcome! 

Vale Ray Hynes

I am sad to advise of the death of Anna Flanagan's father Ray Hines. Ray died last Friday in Grafton. Ray is survived by his daughters Anna and Maria, his six grandchildren and two great-grandbabies. 

Ray was a genuinely kind and gentle man. He had a cheeky sense of humour and an appreciation for the absurd. He was one of the good ones and will leave a great hole in the lives of his family; especially Anna and Maria. 

St Patrick's school community sends its heartfelt condolescences to them all.

Weekday and School Masses

As previously communicated, Father Anthony is taking time to care for his elderly mother, who continues to experience ill health.

During his absence, there will be no weekday or school masses. However, a visiting priest from Armidale will be celebrating weekend masses.

We extend our heartfelt well wishes to Father Anthony and his mum, and we'll keep them both in our prayers.

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.

SCHOOL HOURS

Supervision of students commences at 8:30am. Students should not be on-site until after 8:30 AM.