FROM THE PRINCIPAL

To the St Nicholas School Community

TERM 4 - WEEK 6

Principal for a day

Our ‘Principal for a day’ leadership initiative coordinated last Friday was a huge success. Ella and Halley were outstanding in the role, and I have big shoes to fill for the remainder of the year.

Enjoy some highlights and a report written by the girls:

On Friday the 13th of November 2020 we, Halley Buckman and Ella Scott, were given the opportunity to become Principal for the day. We started by greeting the students at the gate, giving each one a high five. We then went on to meet the Kindergarten students for 2021, helped put their bag in a locker, answered questions and escorted them into the classroom. 

After seeing some adorable Kindergartens, we were off with Mrs Doyle to help a handful of students complete/start their PAT test. We then had a 'Learning Walk' through The Hive and the Library seeing what the current Kindergarten and Year 1 students were doing, and while we were  in 1C we enjoyed a game of Silent Ball. 

We explained the process of becoming a Principal for the day to each class. We then hurried to get changed so that teachers wouldn't win the Oztag game once again! After the teachers’ win, we had a quick lunch and then had a walk around The Hub helping any students that needed it. 

We then hurried to a meeting with Mrs Dunst to talk about buying some tables for the learning spaces. We then had another quick break because we had primary playground duty. Halley was in the Undercroft with Mrs Scott and Ella went on to the Oval with Mrs Seddon. 

After that we had a 'Learning Walk' around The Zone seeing if anyone had any questions. We then finished our meeting and moved on to writing a letter for Shereene (our Lollipop Lady). We then had the opportunity to watch the Olympics in Year 6. Afterwards we hurried to a meeting with Mrs Burke. 

We then had more time to watch the Olympics. While we were watching we were called to take a phone call from Mrs Mitchell (Subject Matter Expert: MaST project from the Armidale Catholic Schools Office) which concluded our day.

Halley Buckman

Ella Scott

Principal for a Day

Stage 3 Public Speaking

To stand and speak in front of an audience, particularly our peers, brings tension to even a seasoned campaigner. Feelings of vulnerability and insecurity are normal and can become overpowering. We can not, however, let these feelings inhibit our development. This is particularly the case in 2020 as the skill of communication is more essential than ever.

At St Nicholas School one way we develop skills is by deliberately taking our children out of their comfort zone, while in a safe and supportive environment. This is particularly the case with public speaking.

Last Thursday our Year 5 and 6 public speaking finals were held. Quite simply, the standard of speeches floored me. Our finalists were confident, articulate and extremely engaging. Congratulations to all finalists, particularly Sophie McMullen on her first place.

Congratulations Mrs Rebecca Hofman

Last week Mrs Rebecca Hofman was successful in her application for Leader of Pedagogy at St Joseph’s Quirindi. This is a wonderful opportunity and another stepping stone in Rebecca’s career. While she will be sorely missed at St Nicholas, Rebecca will be a wonderful addition to St Joseph’s Quirindi. They are very fortunate to have an educator of her calibre. Congratulations Bec!

School Advisory Council

The St Nicholas School Advisory Council Annual General Meeting will be held on Tuesday 24th November at 6.00pm in the St Nicholas Primary School Staffroom. 

The Council is seeking new members. For more information please click on the Newsletter’s School Advisory Council tab. 

School Uniform

After last week presenting to you the findings from our students, I now reveal the results from St Nicholas School Staff survey, on a potential move to increasing the days our students wear their sports uniform.

I now seek even further feedback from our parent sector through the following short survey. I ask you spend 30 seconds completing the two questions:

Parent Uniform survey

Have a great weekend.

John Clery

PRINCIPAL