Greetings from Canberra!

It is quite unusual that I am writing up my reflections for this edition of the newsletter in my room at the Canberra Park Resort. We are in the final stages of the Year 5-6 Excursion and it has been quite a big week so far. The weather hasn't been all that bad but overall our excursion has been a huge success. The students have had the opportunity to take part in a hands-on experience in creating their own coins at The Royal Australian Mint. Exploring and experiencing a large number of exhibitions at the Australian War Memorial. Viewing our nation's collection of historical movies and television shows at the National Film and Sound Archive. We have had the chance to test our sporting skills at the Australian Institute of Sport. Also, the students thoroughly enjoyed the various scientific interactive games at Questacon.

As you can see, there have been a number of highlights and what I have just described is only just the tip of the iceberg. It has been a big week and I have a feeling that it is going to be a quiet trip home tomorrow.

There will be a full round-up of our time here in Canberra in the next edition of the newsletter.

Speaking of going home, I have heard that our new school sign and totem poles have been installed at the front of the school. From the photos that have been shared with me, they look absolutely fantastic and will definitely make our front entrance a lot more attractive.

Year 5-6 LINK TO ACCESS PHOTOS TAKEN DURING THE CANBERRA EXCURSION

PUBLIC HOLIDAY NEXT THURSDAY 22ND SEPTEMBER-NATIONAL DAY OF MOURNING FOR QUEEN ELIZABETH II

On Sunday our Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese announced that Australia will have a National Day of Mourning for Queen Elizabeth II next Thursday 22nd September. As this is a public holiday, the school will not be open on this day.

Normally the school newsletter is sent home Thursday, however, with the public holiday occuring this time next week, the school newsletter will be sent out on Friday 23rd September.

TERM 4 PUPIL FREE DAY

On the first day of Term 4 (Monday 10th October), there will be a Pupil Free Day. Students will return back to school on Tuesday 11th October. I do apologise for any inconveniences that this may cause.

New England Sings 2022 Term 4 for Years 3-6

Thank you to the parents who responded to the survey in regards to indicating if their child/ren are willing to participate in the New England Sings Concert early next term. At the moment, we have 8 students participating in this event.

STOP PRESS: Over 500 tickets have sold to New England Sings! since bookings opened last week. if you are planning to attend the concert, I would advise you to purchase your tickets as soon as possible!

Ticket prices are Adults $30, FT students $20 and can be purchased through the following link: www.trybooking.com/CBWYY

Also, we have received more information in regard to the final practise session and show, which is included in the details below. If you have any questions, please contact Mr Hyatt.

NEW ENGLAND SINGS! 2022 COMBINED PRIMARY CHOIRS REHEARSAL SCHEDULE Armidale and surrounding schools – outreach schools will have rehearsals scheduled at their own school. However, outreach schools are welcome to attend the Armidale workshops if possible.

This exciting event is beginning to take shape, 16 schools (with approx. 500 choristers) in the combined Primary choirs and 14 schools (with approx. 450 choristers) in the Secondary choir.

The 2022 project will include:

The commissioning of two works from wonderful Australian composers – Justine Clarke for the Primary choir and Luke Byrne for the Secondary choir.

Paul Jarman will be attending workshops throughout the year and will conduct the Primary choirs at the final weekend of rehearsals and concerts.

FINAL REHEARSAL (all schools, including outreach schools to attend):

Date: Saturday 22nd October (directed by Paul Jarman)

Time: Primary Choir 1 9:30am – 11:00am (arrive by 9:15am)

Venue: Armidale Secondary College

CONCERTS: Date: Sunday 23rd October (directed by (with Paul Jarman)

Time: Primary Choir 11:00am – 1:00pm (arrive by 10:15am)

Venue: Armidale Secondary College (Butler St)

St Patrick’s School is an outreach school for the rehearsals but we will attempt to attend two of the rehearsals in Armidale.

Parents will have to commit to the Saturday 22nd October - Final Rehearsal and Sunday 23rd October Concert. If they wish their child to participate in New England Sings.

A short video on what New England Sings! is all about is included below:

NECOM advised Wednesday 14th September that more tickets will be released next week, so please put name on the "Join Waitlist" button on Trybooking website if you missed out on tickets.

Mini Vinnies