Newsletter Term 3 Week 8 (Wednesday 11th 2024)
Thank you!
Today, we celebrated the incredible contributions of our support staff. Your dedication, hard work, and commitment ensure everything runs seamlessly. Our success wouldn’t be possible without you. Thank you for all that you do, your impact is truly immeasurable!
Our Gospel Reflection
In our Gospel Reading this weekend, we hear how Peter declares that Jesus is the Christ, and Jesus teaches that those who would follow him must take up his or her cross. Peter had expectations about what it meant to call Jesus the Messiah, the Christ. Jesus was indeed the Messiah, but his life and death would show a different understanding of what it means to be the Messiah. We, too, have expectations of God and our own ideas about what we think God ought to be doing in our world. Like Peter, however, we may risk limiting our image of God by thinking only in human ways. God's plan is always more than we can ever imagine.
As you gather as a family, talk about what we expect God to be doing in our world and in our family life. Then read Sunday's Gospel, Mark 8:31-35. Why do you think Peter was so upset by what Jesus was saying? Notice how Jesus reprimands Peter. Do we sometimes forget to let God be God for us? That is, do we sometimes get discouraged because God doesn't act in our world in the ways that we expect? Pray together that we will remember that God is always working for the world's salvation in ways that are beyond our
From Our Principal
Celebrating Our Dedicated Support Staff: Today we acknowledged the wonderful contribution of the work of our Support Staff. At St Brigid’s Primary School, we are truly blessed to have a team of dedicated and passionate Support Staff who play a vital role in the daily life of our school community. Whether they are working behind the scenes or directly with our students, their commitment to our mission of faith, learning, and service shines brightly.
Our Support Staff includes administration personnel, teaching assistants, canteen co-ordinator, groundskeepers, and cleaners—all of whom contribute to making our school a safe, welcoming, and nurturing place for our students to thrive. They work tirelessly to ensure that everything runs smoothly, often going above and beyond to meet the needs of our students, teachers, and families.
Their kindness, hard work, and attention to detail help create an environment where our children can learn and grow, supported not only by their teachers but by an entire community of caring professionals. Whether it’s offering a helping hand in the classroom, managing administrative tasks, or keeping our facilities in top shape, they are essential to the success of our school.
On behalf of our school community, we extend a heartfelt thank you to our Support Staff, Stephanie Barsby, Paula O’Reilly, Jennifer Ross, Leanne Love, Molly Drum, Stacey Wimble, Ashling Aherne, Kimberley Bugden, Dan Prentice, Kylie Myers, Jo Kelly, Lauren Schottelius, Sheryl Watts, M’Leigh Edwards, Dean Barsby, Bronwyn McNulty, Sereena Zanuso, Jimi Farnham, Jess Rixon, April Williams and Jason Clark for your unwavering dedication. Your work does not go unnoticed, and we are truly grateful for everything you do to enrich the life of our school. You are an invaluable part of our mission, and we appreciate the love and care you show every day.
May God continue to bless you in your important work!
A Fabulous Performance at the State Wakakirri Finals: What a fantastic performance our students delivered at the State Wakakirri Finals last Thursday evening! Their routine was a credit to the dedication of the students, staff, and families involved, especially Mrs Kennedy and Ms Beetge, who played a key role in guiding this incredible journey.
Competing with six other state finalists, our students performed their dance, "Castles," and were truly in with a great chance of taking home the top prize and progressing to the national titles. Although they didn’t move forward to the next stage, their performance was exceptional—according to audience members, they even outdid their previous performance!
At the end of the night, we were thrilled to see the St Brigid's Wakakirri Dance Group receive the prestigious Harmony and Cultural Unity Story State Award. As one judge remarked, the performance was "a visually and emotionally stunning, thought-provoking journey"—a true testament to the talent and hard work of our students.
We are also incredibly proud to announce that our school earned several additional awards:
- Production Award for Costumes
- Storytelling Award
- Storytelling Award for Strong Use of the Festival Motif
- Storytelling Award for Story Theme and Concept
- Production Award for Editing
A special thanks goes to Mrs Kennedy and Ms Beetge, the masterminds behind this extraordinary performing arts experience. They have done an outstanding job in helping our students bring their creativity and talents to life.
We are also grateful to the Catholic Schools Office (CSO) for their continued support, which made it possible for our students to participate in this memorable event. Performing in front of two packed houses was a thrilling experience for all involved!
Congratulations again to everyone who contributed to this wonderful achievement—we are so proud of you all!
Congratulations to Our Poetry and Public Speaking Participants! We are incredibly proud of all the students who took part in our Poetry and Public Speaking Competition last Monday 9th September. Each of you demonstrated exceptional courage, creativity, and confidence by stepping up to share your voices. Public speaking and poetry require not only strong communication skills but also the ability to connect with an audience—and you all did a fantastic job!
Your hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm were evident, and it was inspiring to see such a range of talent across our school. Whether you presented a heartfelt poem, delivered a persuasive speech, or entertained us with humor, each one of you should be very proud of your efforts.
A special congratulations goes to the students who were successful in gaining selection to represent our school at the Richmond Zone Competition in Lismore on Friday 20th September. This is a remarkable achievement, and we are confident you will continue to shine at the next level. We look forward to hearing about your experiences and celebrating your continued success.
Many thanks to Mrs Walters who co-ordinated this activity through our school and had the unenviable task of judging all of our poets and public speakers!!
Once again, congratulations to all participants—you have shown great skill and determination! We are proud of you all.
A Reminder About Hair Guidelines: We would like to remind all students that if your hair is longer than your collar, it must be tied up while at school. This is an important guideline to help us maintain a clean and healthy environment for everyone.
Keeping hair tied up helps to reduce the risk of spreading head lice, which can quickly spread through close contact. We can all work together to minimise the chance of outbreaks and keep our classrooms as healthy as possible.
Thank you for your cooperation in helping us keep our school community safe and comfortable!
Year 6 Excursion Parent Meeting: With the end of term quickly approaching, we are excitedly counting down to the first week of Term 4 when our Year 6 students will embark on their trip to Sydney and Canberra.
A final meeting for families will be held on Wednesday, 18th September at 6pm in the Year 6 classroom. It is essential that at least one family member attends this meeting to receive important information about the final preparations, as we will be departing on the very first day of next term.
If a family member is unable to attend, please notify Miss Macdonald so that the necessary information can be sent to you.
Tony Hunter,
Principal
Assistant Principal - Teaching & Learning
Poetry & Public Speaking Competition
On Monday, we had a wonderful afternoon listening to the Poetry and Public Speaking finals at our school. The children who were selected to move onto the zone finals will compete on Friday 20th September at St Carthages in Lismore.
Congratulations to all students who participated in the classroom and then were selected for the school finals. It is a life skill to be able to stand in front of an audience and speak or recite a poem.
All students should be very proud of their achievements throughout this process.
We wish those students mentioned below all the very best for the upcoming Zone finals.
| ES1 | Callie and Banjo (Poetry) |
| Stage 1 | Abigail and Layla (Poetry) |
| Stage 2 | Elliarna and Ruby (Poetry) Lola and Emily (Public Speaking) |
| Stage 3 | Peyhton and Lexi (Poetry) Belle and Ayce (Public Speaking) |
Vanessa Walters,
Assistant Principal - Teaching & Learning
Wellbeing Team
ZZZZZZs – an undervalued resource?
Sometimes it’s the simple things that we fail to consider.
When our child is emotionally fragile, having behavioural issues, or slipping behind in their learning, it might be time to ask, are they getting enough sleep?
A good night’s sleep is as fundamental to our health and wellbeing as drinking enough water, or eating enough food. Without it, we are negatively impacted in many ways.
If you notice any of the following changes in your family members, it’s time for a sleep audit! Check the sleep needs graphic below to find out how much sleep children need at different developmental stages.
| Increased irritability | Difficulty regulating emotions |
| Difficulty concentrating or paying attention | Grades starting to slip |
| Increased forgetfulness | Getting sick more often |
| Decreased motivation | Becoming clumsy or accident-prone |
| Decreased interest in anything | Weight Gain |
Wellbeing Team
Canteen
Important Ordering Information
To ensure smooth operation of our canteen, please note the following:
1. Order Timing:
- Recess Orders: Please place orders specifically for recess time. These orders are prepared and ready for pickup during recess.
- Lunch Orders: Ensure that lunch orders are placed separately for lunch time. These meals will be prepared and available for pickup during lunch.
2. Pickup Guidelines:
- Recess Orders: Only food orders for recess can be collected at this time.
- Lunch Orders: Only food orders for lunch can be collected at this time.
Please be aware that we’ve had several students with substantial recess orders but no lunch orders. This creates challenges for both the students and the canteen staff, as all the food is provided during recess. Consequently, some of the food gets wasted, and students are left without lunch.
3. Sweets and Zooper Doopers:
- For healthier eating habits, sweets and Zooper Doopers are provided only after savoury items are consumed. Students must return their labelled bags to collect their sweets.
By adhering to these guidelines, we can ensure a more organised and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Thank you for your support and cooperation!
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us at the school office.
Parent Assembly
Free Workshop about Parenting Teens
Don't miss this amazing opportunity to learn more about parenting teens in the complex world they are growing up in. Chris Hudson, a highly regarded teen parenting coach will present - Parenting Teenagers in a Digital World at Trinity Catholic College - R Block at 5:30 pm (refreshments) 6 pm start on Tuesday the 17th of September. We hope that all parents of tweens and teens in our Catholic schools in the local area make time to come along to this informative and engaging session. You'll leave with great information and practical tips and strategies to help you help your young person thrive.
To register CLICK HERE or to read more CLICK HERE.
Attendance Matters
Your role in supporting attendance
Every day counts, as regular attendance helps students to:
- develop a sense of belonging
- develop and maintain friendships
- be more engaged at school
- progress with their learning
- be more aware of career and life options.
Supporting positive school attendance is a shared responsibility - everyone has a role.
More info 
bit.ly/AttendanceInfo
One of our school goals this year is to have an average weekly attendance of 90% and above. The class with the best average each week receives the “Stars of the Week” trophy and certificate to display in their classroom.
| Term 3 Week 7 Class with the highest average attendance |
| Kindergarten 90.13% |
| Term 3 Week 7 Whole School Average |
| Whole School Average 80.87% |
Term 3 Attendance Results
| Week 1 | 87.54% | Year 3 93.33% | Kinder 90.43% | Year 2 89.84% |
| Week 2 | 84.36% | Kinder 92.91% | Year 4 88.93% | Year 2 88.60% |
| Week 3 | 85.64% | Year 5 82.08% | Year 4 81.14% | Year 2 80.40% |
| Week 4 | 86.64% | Year 2 89.58% | Year 3 89.33% | Year 4 88.07% |
| Week 5 | 86.35% | Kinder 92.65% | Year 3 90.39% | Year 4 88.61% |
| Week 6 | 87.31% | Year 4 92% | Year 3 90.78% | Year 2 89.89% | |
| Week 7 | 80.87% | Kinder 90.13% | Year 3 88.44% | Year 5 82.65% |
Positive Behaviour 4 Learning (PB4L)
| Term 3 Week 8 PB4L Focus |
I am a good sport and follow the rules when playing games. |
Making Jesus Real (MJR)
| Term 3 Week 8 MJR Focus |
| Go M.A.D!!!!! |
As part of our MAD (Make a Difference) Week, Stage 2 students are stepping up to support our community with two exciting activities:
Croissant Sale
This Thursday, grab a delicious croissant for just a gold coin! Choose from ham & cheese, jam, or plain. Perfect for lunch!
Soccer Ball Raffle
Get your raffle tickets for just 50c each! Tickets will be available starting tomorrow until Friday recess. Don't miss your chance to win a fantastic soccer ball & and more surprises!
All proceeds will be donated to support missions. Let's make a difference together!
Celebrations
You shine with the Light of the Lord —the kind of Light that grows brighter and warmer and more radiant with time. God bless you with a very happy birthday!
| 13th Sept - Silas |
| 18th Sept - David |
| 28th Sept - Rainbow |
Congratulations to the following students who have shown tremendous effort and were presented with their awards at our assembly Week 7.
| Kindergarten | Satkar & Eli |
Year 1 | Sebastian & Eli |
Year 2 | - |
Year 3 | Harrison & Djajai |
Year 4 | Ivy & Shekinah |
Year 5 | Paityn, Olivia & Ayce |
Year 6 | Wentworth & Lexi |
Principal | Rickelle & Silas |
Calendar
With just TWO weeks left in the term, please take note of the following key dates.
Pupil Free Days Term 3 |
| Friday 27th September |
Week 8 | |
| Thursday 12th September | R U OK? Day - Wear something yellow to school |
| Friday 13th September | Year 3 & 4 Showcase |
| Saturday 14th September | Whole School Family Mass & Pizza Dinner 5 pm |
| Sunday 15th September | 24th Sunday of Ordinary Time. Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows |
Week 9 | |
| Wednesday 18th September | Year 6 Excursion Parent Meeting 6 pm in the Year 6 classroom |
| Friday 20th September | Public Speaking & Poetry Zone Finals St Carthage's Lismore |
| Sunday 22nd September | 25th Sunday of Ordinary Time |
Week 10 | |
| Tuesday 24th September | Feast of Our Lady of Mercy |
| Friday 27th September | Pupil Free Day |
| Friday 27th & Saturday 28th September | Kyogle Show |
| Sunday 29th September | 26th Sunday of Ordinary Time |
Breakfast Club serves assorted cereal & toast options EVERY Wednesday | Thursday | Friday during term time for a 50c donation.
Parish News
Our Lady of Sorrows Parish established 1916. Our Parish Family includes the town of Kyogle and the villages of Urbenville and Woodenbong. Our Parish Priest is Fr Erick Quinteros.
Mass Times are Saturday 5:00 pm | Sunday 9:00 am.
Morning Tea is served every Sunday after Mass hosted by the parishioners.
Vigil Mass will move to 6 pm from Saturday 5th October (Daylight Savings).
Parish Office Phone: 02 6632 1074 | Email: kyogle@lismore.catholic.org.au
We are on Facebook! Click here for Our Lady of Sorrows Facebook Page
Pizza Dinner RSVP Time!
We’re gearing up for our Pizza Dinner and need your help to ensure we have enough delicious pies for everyone!
To make sure we order the right amount, please take a moment to fill out the form with the number of people in your party. Your quick response will help us make sure no one goes hungry!
👉https://bit.ly/PizzaRSVP14th
Community News
The highlight of every Kyogle Show is the talent on display – and the people behind that talent.
Whether you're a seasoned baker crafting intricate cakes, a young enthusiast decorating simple iced biscuits, a budding photographer capturing stunning moments, or an artist creating fine masterpieces, your contributions add to the magic of the show. Keep sharing your passion and creativity!
Submit your entries online today, and let’s celebrate the best of Kyogle together.
Donations Needed: Your Support Makes a Difference!
Our Parish is excited to announce their upcoming Second Hand Saturday Garage Sale and we need your help!
We are currently seeking donations of plants, furniture, clothing, bric-a-brac and toys.
By contributing, you’ll help reduce landfill waste and support the principles of reuse and repair within our community.
Donation Drop-Off: Date: From September 16th
Time: 8:30 am onward
Location: 156 Summerland Way, Church Grounds
Contacts: Joan at 0413 999 360 or Diane at 0428 321 589.
If anyone is available to help, there is an organiser meeting Thursday 19th Sept in the shed next to Our Lady of Sorrows Church.
“Consider Yourself” Set for a Fabulous Production of Oliver!
Join us for a captivating production of Oliver Twist, featuring five talented St Brigid's students. Experience the magic of Dickens’ classic as young Oliver seeks love and family in Victorian London.
Tickets: Available at villagehallplayers.com, Clay Corner, and at the door (if not sold out).
Follow us: Facebook.com/villagehallplayers for updates and more!
Kyogle Show Friday 27th & Saturday 28th September buy tickets here https://bit.ly/kyogleshowtickets
Parent Resources
Because we value the critical role parents and carers play as partners in educating and forming young people, we have compiled some helpful resources to support families at home.
Educational Games
Toy Theatre | Educational Games for Kids
Math Games
Hidden Pictures Games and Puzzles
Quick Links
St Brigid's Facebook Page
Parent Assembly Facebook Page
Supporting Learning - Primary
Faith and Family
Tips for Parents – Supporting your Childs attendance at School
NSW Government Facebook Page