Term 3 Week 3 Newsletter - 09.08.24
Principal News
Mary MacKillop left a striking example for school leaders today. Perhaps the greatest legacy for our schools is a willingness to act – inspired by the signs of the times, to see God in the communities we walk with, and a passion for authentic equity for all children and families.
The Josephite Order has played an important part in providing Catholic education at Our Lady Help of Christians and the South Lismore Parish.
We at Our Lady Help of Christians School are the inheritors of the traditions of Mary MacKillop and the Josephite community, which she established. Josephite life finds its roots in the commitment, courage and compassion associated with those women whose vision takes them on a journey to live in close relationships with the people among whom they work, sharing spirituality, education and new possibilities for life.
'God's presence seems to follow me everywhere.' (Mary MacKillop 1870).
The maintenance of these values allows our school to enjoy an excellent reputation in the community. We are indebted to our clergy, parents and dedicated leaders and staff members who enable our ideals and traditions to be passed down to each successive generation.
'With God on our side, what need we fear?' (Mary MacKillop,1890).
Outside of School Hours Care
Just a reminder that bookings are essential for OSHC as we have a capacity of 30 students. Changes from the Department of Education and our current space available for OSHC has limited our numbers. Preference will be given to permanent bookings. Please contact Jenette in the office if you would like to try and make a permanent booking for the days required. Please don't be disappointed or angry if you can not get a casual booking spot for your child at very short notice.
Important Dates
- Wednesday 14th August-5:45pm Sacrament of Confirmation
- Friday 23rd August- 9am Book Week Dress Up Parade
- Thursday 29th August- 8:00am Father's Day Breakfast and Liturgy
- Wednesday 18th September- 4:30-6pm Art and Learning Showcase
- Friday 20th September- Grandparents Day
- Friday 27th September- Pupil Free Day/Last day of Term 3
Tell Them From Me Survey
At the end of last term our school received the results from the Tell Them From Me Survey - thank you to the 60 families that responded. We have a very strong partnership here at OLHC and this highlights how important it is for us to work together for all our students.
At one of our recent Parent Conversation evenings and Professional Learning Days the staff spent a session reviewing the data received from Students, Staff and Families.
Please find below some of the initial themes from our parent data.
PARENTS
Based on the feedback provided, the top five themes from the data regarding the school's strengths and areas for improvement are:
Community and Caring Environment
Many parents appreciate the strong sense of community, inclusivity, and the caring nature of the staff and principal.
The school's small size is frequently mentioned as a positive aspect, fostering a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.
Communication
Effective communication from the school staff, particularly from the principal and teachers, is highly valued by parents.
Weekly updates and prompt responses to concerns are appreciated.
Support for Diverse Needs
Parents value the tailored support provided to children with additional needs, including neurodiverse students.
The flexibility in learning and the inclusive approach to different learning paces are highlighted.
Facilities and Extracurricular Activities
There is a desire for more space, particularly in the playground, and real grass to improve the physical environment.
Parents wish for more extracurricular activities, including music, art, and non-sporting events, to cater to diverse interests.
Parental Involvement and Activities
Parents enjoy participating in school events and appreciate the opportunities for family involvement.
Suggestions for improvement include more activities that families can participate in together, such as sports events, and more after-school programs.
These themes indicate a high level of satisfaction with the school's community and care, while also pointing out areas where improvements could enhance the overall experience for students and parents.
Friendships Start with Self-concept
A child's self-concept significantly influences their social development. When children have a positive self-view, they tend to engage in social interactions confidently and resiliently, handling challenges and peer interactions constructively. A strong self-concept helps children develop greater social competence, including effective communication, empathy, and friendship-building skills. Self-concept also plays a crucial role in identity formation, helping children understand their values, beliefs, and interests and fostering authentic connections and a sense of belonging.
What can parents do to nurture a positive self-concept?
Every child is unique so your pathway will not be the same. Here are some tips from the Child Development Clinic:
● Demonstrate affection and love towards your child through both your words and actions. Communicate your enjoyment of spending time with them openly and frequently.
● Take the time to truly understand your child. Show genuine interest in their hobbies, friendships, and daily experiences. Ask them about their day and listen attentively to their thoughts and feelings, accepting that their perspective may differ from your own without judgment or criticism.
● Engage in quality bonding activities with your child that align with their interests and strengths. Play games and explore activities together that they find enjoyable and captivating.
● Encourage your child to cultivate relationships with other supportive individuals, such as friends, family members, and community groups, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance.
● Acknowledge and praise your child's efforts and persistence rather than solely focusing on their successes. Celebrate their progress and achievements while emphasising the importance of trying their best without placing undue pressure on them to excel.
● Help your child reframe failures or disappointments as valuable opportunities for learning and personal growth.
● Refrain from labelling your child as either "good" or "bad," opting instead to recognise and praise their strengths, positive qualities, and commendable behaviours. Offer specific compliments that highlight their creativity, effort, and kindness.
● Avoid comparing your child to their siblings or peers, as this can undermine their self-esteem. Encourage them to focus on their own progress and accomplishments rather than measuring themselves against others.
If you’re worried that your child lacks self-esteem, you can get help. Talk to your child’s teacher or call Parent Line NSW.
Mission News
St Mary of the Cross MacKillop Feast Day
Yesterday we celebrated the Feast of St Mary of The Cross MacKillop. During this celebration we also acknowledged the 100 year anniversary of the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Hearts involvement at OLHC. In 1924, the sisters arrived in our Parish, taught in our school and became valued members of our Parish. On the Feast of their founder, we acknowledge that history and connection and remember all the special women who served our school and Parish community from the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart.
NAIDOC Week
During Week 2 we celebrated an amazing NAIDOC Week!
To begin our week, our Aboriginal leaders led us in a beautiful liturgy, in which we prayed for unity and shared the theme for 2024 - “Keep the fire burning! Blak, loud and proud.” This theme celebrates the unyielding spirit of our indigenous communities and it invites all to stand in solidarity, amplifying the voices that have long been silenced. Thank you to all the families that were able to join us for the liturgy!
On Tuesday and Wednesday we welcomed Uncle Richard to our school for his Milkirri Workshops. Uncle Richard showed us a Dreamtime story, how to play the Didgeridoo and use Aboriginal weapons and equipment. We finished with some traditional dancing! Thank you Uncle Richard for your time and engaging presentation and teaching us about Aboriginal Culture.
On Thursday, our Aboriginal students headed to Woodlawn to celebrate the NAIDOC Bundjalung Schools event. It was a fantastic day that celebrated culture and community. The day commenced with a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome/Acknowledgement of Country by Uncle Gilbert. We saw some amazing traditional dance performances; and our students participated in cultural activities including crafting their very own clapsticks and decorating boomerangs.
Our final event for our NAIDOC Week was our NAIDOC Casual Day, which is always a colourful celebration of culture!
NAIDOC Week at OLHC is always a great success due to the tireless efforts of Ms. Penina Welch, our Aboriginal Education Worker. We are so blessed to have such an amazing, creative and knowledgeable leader in our community!
Year 5 Leadership Retreat
Year 5 attended a Leadership Retreat at Trinity Catholic College this week where they learned all about servant leadership. The aim of the retreat is to prepare our Year 5 students, not only for the formal leadership roles that come in Year 6 but also for the daily leadership we expect of our Stage 3 students each and every day.
Thank you to Mrs McCarthy, Mrs Lindsay and Miss Aleisha for supporting our students and the wonderful leaders and staff at Trinity Catholic College.
Welcome to the Family
Congratulations and welcome to the Catholic family Noah and Willow Middleton who were Baptised recently at St Carthage's Cathedral.
May you always remember your Baptism day, and may God's joy, love and peace fill you through all your tomorrows!
2024 Sacramental Program
2024 Sacramental Program
The Sacrament of First Holy Communion will be on Thursday 12th September, time TBC, in our Parish Church. Further details and information to come over the next week.
The Sacrament of Confirmation is on the 14th August 2024 in our Parish Church. Preparations have begun in the Year 3 classroom on Monday afternoons.
Making Jesus Real Awards
KP
Sienna C - For being positive, happy and demonstrating resilience to take on new challenges. Keep letting your light shine Sienna.
1L
Violet Mc - For enthusiastically sharing your indigenous heritage with the class, particularly for NAIDOC Week. Thank you Violet.
2P
Cooper Q - For your positive and encouraging words when concerned for welfare of staff and students. You are setting a great example in Making Jesus Real.
3L
Maddie F - For never seeing a need without doing something about it. We thank you for bringing your calm, gentle and empathetic nature to our classroom.
4L
Isla D - For your cheerful attitude and willingness to help others. Thank you Isla!
4P
Mason Mc - For being a supportive and kind friend to peers in need.
5L
Isaac S - For your uplifting smile and daily happiness that inspires everyone. Keep spreading that positivity!
5P
Noah S - For being helpful and considerate in your thoughts and actions towards others. Keep shining bright, Noah!
6P
Sophie M - For always seeing a need and doing something about it. Thank you Sophie, Keep shining your light!
Learning & Teaching
Stage 2 & 3 Cyber Safety Talks with Constable Ricky
On Wednesday, Constable Ricky came to speak with our students in Stage 2 & 3 about how to stay safe online. Some of the points covered were:
Be aware what you share!
- Your profile or username can say a lot
- Keep your information private
- Choose smart usernames
- Have your settings set at ‘Private’ or ‘friends only
We can still have fun posting photos and keep our information private.
- Hide your uniform logo.
- Watch footage back before uploading, and cut, edit or hide anything you think could be personal.
- Don’t share your location, especially while you are still there or if you are there often.
Before you send content to other people, ask yourself:
- Why are you sending it?
- Who are you sending it to?
- Do you have permission to share it?
- Will it hurt or upset someone?
- If the answer is yes, do not share.
Not everyone is who they say they are:
- Only interact with people you know in person online.
- Do not chat with people you do not know face to face, especially on games
Gaming- Only play games suitable for your age
- It is best to play in ‘single player’ mode or ‘multiplayer’ with trusted friends
- Keep the chat about the game only
- Know how to report and block users who don’t play nice
If you need help, speak to a trusted adult and the Police are there to help if you need it.
If you wouldn’t show your parents or a trusted adult something, do not post it online!
For more information, parents can go to:
https://www.thinkuknow.org.au/index.php/find-advice/our-top-five-tips
https://www.nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/cybermarvel/parents
Kindergarten enjoyed practising addition combinations to 10.
Year 1 developed their understanding of Place Value with 2, 3 and 4 digit numbers.
Year 2 found many interesting, repeated patterns in the environment.
Year 3 creating animal soundscape stories in Music
Year 4 Music fun
Year 5 have been researching planets in Science
Year 6 are learning about different types of energy in Science
Extra Curricular Coding Team- Creating trophies using coding programs
OLHC Achievement Awards
KP
Isobel Mc - For persistence you show when completing your independent writing is inspiring. Keep it up Isobel!
Ayla K - For always demonstrating care and attention to detail in your learning. You always produce your best work Ayla, Keep it up!
Jaxen O - For demonstrating fantastic growth when sounding out words in writing. Keep working hard Jax!
Leo R - For demonstrating persistence and a positive attitude when segmenting and blending sounds when reading. You're a superstar Leo!
1L
Ethan B - For becoming an independent worker, completing set tasks - Keep up the great work Ethan.
Rhylee B - For being an active participant during class discussions who is always willing to share her thoughts and ideas. Thank you Rhylee!
Maizie H - For applying learnt grammar to improve meaning and enjoyment to your reader - great work Maizie!
Sophia H - For improved focus in all areas of learning, well done Sophia!
2P
Zephyr L - For challenging yourself and presenting a well written informative text. Well done!
Ethan R - For your thoughtful and well structured writing on Norway. Well done!
3L
Nash H - For consistently showing curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity in scientific exploration. Keep it up, Nash!
Nikki Q - For being actively involved in our learning tasks and contributing to class discussions. Your improved efforts are a credit to you, Nikki!
Michael W - For his dedication, attention to detail and consistent effort in mastering spelling rules. Well done, Michael!
4L
Campbell H - For using great description in your writing to create imagery for your audience. Great work Campbell!
Hudson H - For displaying your thinking in flexible ways when calculating multiplication problems. Great work Hudson!
4P
Sebastian S - For your excellent work in mathematics. For understanding the connection between fractions and decimals and demonstrating that understanding on a numberline.
Evan S - For your consistent application in spelling classes and making improvements with words that have a trick to them.
5L
Harlee C - For actively seeking feedback and help to improve and achieve your goals. Well done on your dedication to learning!
William D - For your great job applying your spelling strategies to your writing!
5P
Bly B - Congratulations on your progress in writing! Your commitment to incorporating feedback has significantly enhanced the quality of your work.
Hamish J - For your growth mindset in mathematics and your persistence in understanding strategies to solve multiplication problems. Keep up the great work, Hamish!
6P
Emily P - For the fantastic improvement in your reading achievement. Keep up the amazing learning, Emily!
Bailey N - For the clear and concise explanations you give during mathematics lessons. Keep up your sensational learning, Bailey!
Sports News
At OLHC, we love celebrating the sporting achievements of all our students. If your child has a special achievement that you would love for us to share with the school community, please send any photos and a short paragraph outlining their achievement to Mrs McCarthy - haylee.mccarthy@lism.catholic.edu.au
Richmond Zone Athletics Carnival
On Thursday the 1st of August we had 40 students from OLHC attend the Richmond Zone Athletics Carnival at Woodlawn College. We were blessed with wonderful weather and it was great to see the children enjoying themselves and encouraging others. All the students represented our school with the highest of expectations and tried their absolute best.
Thank you to all the parents who managed to support the children and to Mrs Transton and Mrs Moloney for ensuring the children were well-hydrated and ready for every event they were in.
Here are the names of the students that represented our school on the day.
8-10 Years Boy/Girl | 11 Years Boy/Girl | 12/13 Years Boys/Girls | |
Hamish Johnson Braith Fing Oliver Birmingham Alby Sedelaar Nash Brock Rhett Prosser Brody Berry Charles Dawson Taetum Presbury Sonntag-Boll Harvey Johnston Oliver Boyd Cooper Quinn | Harriett Johnston Ellie Brooker Felicity Fredericks Anika Burt Milani Hague Grace Howard Cleo Fredericks Sophia Beacom Sylvia Slade Alaura Patch | Robbie Grace Brody Clapham Mason Box Ryan Butler Cooper Johnson Kaden Sawatzki Noah Steenson Harper Jasmin Bailey Newton Charlotte Forbes | Jack De Giusti Flynn Wiblen Henry Jenkins Milla Coronakes Sophie Maher Matilda Johnston Laini Lynch Luna Nekrasov |
Congratulations to Harper Jasmin, Bailey Newton, Milla Coronakes, Jack De Giusti, Robbie Grace, Harriett Johnston, Anika Burt and Alby Sedelaar who were successfully placed in the top 3 participants in their events. They will now travel to Coffs Habour on the 16th of August to compete at the Diocesan Athletics Carnival. We wish these students all the best.
Zone Athletics Age Champions
On the day of the Zone Athletics Carnival, the students showcased their athletic ability, and it was so wonderful to see them dig deep and do their best. A special mention goes to Harper Jasmin who was awarded the Girls 11 Years Age Champion and Robbie Grace who was awarded the Boys 11 Years Runner Up Age Champion. This was an outstanding achievement for a school of our size, and it was lovely to witness the excitement from all the students when Harper and Robbie were presented with this award.
Colour House Competition
This term we have organised a Colour House Competition for our students. Students in Years 3 - 6 will walk down to Neilson Park every second Friday afternoon to participate in either soccer, touch football or social walking. We would like to encourage the students to bring along their colour shirt to wear for the competition.
This will take place on the following dates.
Week | Dates and Times |
Week 5 | 23/08/23 - 1:15pm - 2:30pm |
Week 7 | 06/09/23 - 1:15pm - 2:30pm |
Week 9 | 20/09/23 - 1:15pm - 2:30pm |
Kinder, Year 1 and Year 2 will participate in some fun games at school. They will also be divided into to their house groups and earn points every second Friday. We would like to encourage the students to bring along their colour shirt to wear for the competition.
Richmond Zone Gala Day
On Friday 30th of August, our Year 5 and 6 students will be provided with the opportunity to participate in the Richmond Zone Gala Day. This day will allow students the opportunity to participate in sports such as, soccer, netball and multi-sports. Please keep an eye out on Compass for event approval.
Basketball
On Saturday the 20th of July, Mason Box, Tilly Preston and Bly Bashforth trialled for the 2024 Under 12 Davidson Northern Jamboree team. All three students were selected in the team. They will now travel to Coffs Harbour in September to compete against other talented basketballers. As a school, we are so proud of Mason, Tilly and Bly, and we wish them all the best as the next competition.
Term Three
- Friday the 9th of August - OLHC Mini Olympics
- Friday the 16th of August - DIO Athletics Carnival, Lismore/Coffs
- Friday the 30th of August - Years 5 and 6 Richmond Zone Gala Day
Term Four
- Monday the 4th of November - Richmond Zone Tennis Summer Sports Trials (Years 4 and 5 ONLY)
- Wednesday the 6th of November - Richmond Zone Cricket Summer Sports Trials (Years 4 and 5 ONLY)
- Thursday the 7th of November - Richmond Zone Touch Football Summer Sports Trials (Years 4 and 5 ONLY)
- Tuesday the 26th of November - DIO Tennis Summer Sports Trials, Lismore (Years 4 and 5 ONLY)
- Friday the 29th of November - DIO Cricket, Softball, Touch Football and Basketball Summer Sports Trials, Lismore (Years 4 and 5 ONLY)
- Friday the 6th of December - OLHC Swimming Carnival
School News
Due to our Book Week Fair being in week 5. We will not have an issue 6 of Book Club
Invitation for Parent Helpers
Over the next two terms, Mrs Transton and Mrs Rodda will be doing Dance for Creative Arts with the students. Kinder, Year 1 and Year 2 will be in Term 3 and our students in Years 3-6 in Term 4.
In order to enrich the experience, we would like to invite parents or family members with special dance talents to come and share their craft with our students. For example, you may be an Irish Dance wiz, or have Ballet or Jazz skills. If this is you and you would like to be involved, please contact Mrs Transton and Mrs Rodda via email. Thank you!
amy.rodda@lism.catholic.edu.au
lisa.transton@lism.catholic.edu.au
Community News
