WEEK 1 - TERM 2

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Dear Families and Friends,

We had much excitement and energy on the gate and in the grounds on Monday morning, suggesting our students and families had recharged in readiness for an even BIGGER term ahead. Now well settled into the routines and the rhythm of school life, we look forward to building upon the momentum of Term 1 and heavily investing in what is typically the most productive period for the school year (T.2&3).

This week, we were thrilled to see our senior students head away on camp after two very disruptive years and subsequent cancellations. For some students, this was their first camping experience and time away from their families, and their excitement (and understandable nervousness) as they boarded the coach suggested they were in for fabulous 4 day experience.

We must give credit to our students for embracing this wonderful opportunity, our families for gently coaching their child leading up to this special occasion and our remarkable staff for their preparation, efforts and generous time away supporting the students with this invaluable program.

A special mention and thanks to Miss McKay (Yr.6) for her exceptional leadership and organization in recent weeks. Her attention to detail, targeting specific needs (food, groupings, room allocations, buses, staffing, activities, communication) and leaving no stone unturned approach has been nothing short of first class. Our students were in such wonderful hands and we sincerely thank all staff for offering up their week for the students in their care. Albeit for a day, it was fabulous to visit the campers and see them in action, and more importantly, so happy interacting with their peers and the staff. This precious time for our students and staff is often their most memorable over their primary school journey.

Just planting a seed that we have made some tentative plans for our Yr.6 students to head to Canberra in 2023 for a full week camping experience. In addition, we are currently in the process of reviewing our camping program for our Yr. 2-6 students and more information will follow in the coming weeks. Please note all camps will be subject to availaibilty and costing considerations.

While the cats away...

Whilst we thought the school might have been somewhat ‘quieter’ throughout the week with our seniors and many staff away on camp, we couldn’t help but notice the increased volume in the playground as our P - 4 students certainly filled this void. They clearly loved having a little more space to roam and explore with 75 less students in the mix.

Perhaps the most affirming observation with our senior students off site for the week has been the willingness and eagerness of our Yr.4 students offering to step up (show initiative) and take on greater responsibilities and leadership in the absence of Yr 5 & 6. From the bin duties and sandpit covers, to the running of assembly, we have been so impressed by our aspiring leaders this week. Well done Yr.4, you've been wonderful!

Year 5&6 Camp

Once again, we were thrilled to see our senior students safely head away (and return) this week to Rumbug, an outdoor adventure camp nestled in the hillside of Foster, South Gippsland. The staff could not fault their behaviour as they embraced every opportunity, supported their peers and exceeded the highest expectations while away. The daily feedback and observations were exemplary and this reflects so highly on these students and we could not be more proud of their manner over this week. Well done Yr.5/6! We think (hope) you sleep well over the coming days, you deserve it.

Friday morning text message update: Another brilliant morning, kids are tired, but so happy!

Despite a mid-camp mishap from brave Bella and a visit to the local hospital, she was determined to remain with her peers on camp and stayed for the entire week. Great effort Bella! A shining example of resilience.

We sincerely thank our staff for their care and management of all our students over this week - this is a significant undertaking and responsibility!

A sneaky daily highlight was Mr T’s unique music wake-up ritual. We tend to think Mr T enjoyed this more than the students.

Students were only allowed to leave their rooms when they heard the music, and let’s just say the dancing and singing says it all.

Kinder Visits

Many thanks to Mrs Collins for coordinating our first visits to Nagle Kinder this week. The students (as did the teacher) loved it! The aim of this beautiful initiative is to foster good relationships within the community and future students for Sacred Heart (future buddies) and begin the orientation process for the kinder students. Each fortnight, a small group of Yr. 4 students will visit the kindergarten to interact and do a range of activities e.g. read to or do guided play. As this program progresses the kinder students will visit Sacred Heart to familiarize with our setting and further these relationships. Be sure to check out Mrs Collins' report capturing this special new program and share the good word, we’ve got some great things happening at Sacred Heart.

There's a bear in there...

Many thanks to James Connelly and Andy Simons for their incredible handy work in knocking through a new door for the Principal's Office. Their overwhelming generosity of time and labour has transformed this space and we simply cannot underestimate the impact this will make to the administration area in providing a greater connection to the school community.

Winter Uniform

A gentle reminder that all students will need to transition to their ‘full’ winter uniform by the end of next week i.e. full winter uniform from the commencement of Week 3. It has been wonderful to see our students already wearing this uniform so proudly.

We also request that families reinforce the correct shoes and socks be worn unless this is dedicated sports day. Navy with school uniform and white ‘school’ sports socks with their PE uniform.

Mother’s Day Assembly and Morning Tea

Please check the details in the P&F News. One of the many highlights in our school calendar and such a special celebration and acknowledgement for our amazing mums and special friends.

Year 3&4 Art Work

These beautiful pieces caught my eye in the corridor outside the middle school area. We certainly have some talented artists and an amazing art teacher.

Michael's little adventure

On Friday morning we had a rabbit hunt as Michael (Yr.1&2 bunny) decided to go on a little adventure. Safely discovered in the grounds, this provided a perfect writing prompt/teachable moment for the juniors as they wrote about Michael's adventure.

Thanks for sharing your story Ava, it appears Michael may have got up to some mischief on his hopping travels.

Staffing News

What a team! Many thanks again to Miss McKay, Miss Healey, Miss Prosser, Mrs Reed Miss Bryce, Mr Brown, Mr Blake & Mr Thiessens for their dedication and time in supporting the senior students on camp this week. They were blessed to be in your care.

We also sincerely thank Mrs Biffin for covering Miss Maloney's beautiful class while on leave visiting family in Ireland. Back on Monday, we know how excited our little ones will be to see her. Many thanks also to Ms Kehoe, Mrs McGrath and Mrs Hyslop for also covering various classes in the absence of staff on leave. We have so many wonderful and flexible teachers on staff who are able to fill these occasional holes ensuring the quality of learning is maintained.

Little Gems

Many thanks to Mrs Fahey for offering to run a very special Hip Hop dance session on Friday to celebrate International Dance Day. An ex-dance teacher (in her spare time), we think Mrs Fahey knows how to move and share her talents with the students. What a fun way to close out the week.

Key Dates and Reminders for Term 2

Full Winter uniform transition by Week 3
6th May - 9am Mother's Day Assembly and Morning Tea
9th May - P&F Meeting 6:30pm
10th May - NAPLAN begins
13th May - Cross Country
20th May - Confirmation
3rd June- Kids disco
10th June - Grandparent's Day and Special Assembly
13th June - Queen's Birthday
20th June - School Closure - Whole Staff Berry Street Training
24th June - End of Term and Feast of Sacred Heart

And finally...

One remarkable week down and already we have so much to celebrate and be grateful for at Sacred Heart. Let's all look forward to harnessing this wonderful energy and building upon these successes.

Share the good news, we are the best school in Bayside,

Simon Collis

Principal

Instagram: @sacred_heart_sandringham

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