Newsletter Term 4 Week 3 (Wednesday 30th October 2024)

Front Page with Kindergarten

Writing in Kindergarten

The kindergarten children have been working really hard to write simple sentences independently. Last week we read Banjo and Big Red, a story about an unlikely friendship on a farm. The children identified the words that sound like the action of the animals and discussed how these words can help build imagery within a text.

Great job girls and boys!

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Our Gospel Reflection

OUR GOSPEL REFLECTION

As Christians, our moral behaviour is guided by the two-part commandment taught by Jesus in Sunday’s Gospel: love God and love your neighbour as yourself. Many of us learned to use this framework as an examination of conscience. By examining our lives through the lens of these commandments, we have learned that the challenge of these commandments is not in our desire to follow them but in our capacity to consistently honour these commandments in our daily lives.

For one week, identify and collect news reports of how Christians show their love for God by loving and serving their neighbour. Clip these news items and share what you have heard when you gather as a family. Read together Sunday’s Gospel, Mark 12:28b-34. Talk about ways in which your family might contribute to the examples of Christian service you found. Choose one of these actions to do together as a family. Conclude in prayer together asking God to help us show love to our family members and friends.

From Our Principal

Dear Families,

On behalf of the teachers of St Brigid’s, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our families and staff for the beautiful lunch provided last Friday in celebration of "Happy Teachers Day." This thoughtful gesture was deeply appreciated and truly highlighted the strong sense of community that defines our school.

It is both an honour and a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated and talented group of professionals. Our teachers commit themselves wholeheartedly to guiding, inspiring, and nurturing our students each day, helping to shape their academic and spiritual journeys. Their unwavering commitment to providing a rich Catholic education is at the heart of our mission and makes our school a place of genuine learning, faith, and growth.

Your kindness and generosity in acknowledging our teachers’ hard work and passion mean so much to all of us. Together, as a school community, we continue to build an environment where each child is supported, encouraged, and celebrated. Thank you once again for your thoughtfulness and for celebrating the invaluable role our teachers play.

Our Indigenous Yarning Circle 

We’re thrilled to share that construction of our Indigenous Yarning Circle at the bottom of the playground is well and truly underway! This meaningful addition to our school grounds is being carefully crafted as a space where students can gather, connect, and engage in open discussions and storytelling.
The Yarning Circle holds a deep cultural significance in Indigenous traditions. Traditionally, it is a place where people come together to share knowledge, listen to each other’s stories, and build understanding and respect within the community. By introducing a Yarning Circle to our school, we are creating an opportunity for students to connect with each other, learn about Indigenous culture, and appreciate the value of respectful, inclusive conversations.
We look forward to seeing our Yarning Circle become a space for all students to share, listen, and grow together. Thank you to the Catholic Schools Office and Ben Harris Earthmoving for your ongoing support in bringing this project to life for our school community!

Welcome Back Aleeta Northey

It is with great pleasure that we welcome back to our school, acclaimed dance instructor and choreographer Ms Aleeta Northey. Aleeta was last with us in 2022 and we are so much looking forward to our Intensive Dance Week this week. Aleeta will once again bring her fabulous skills and talents to our children in the areas of performance and dance and turn every student into a dramatic dancing machine. I'm sure the students will thoroughly enjoy their time with such an experienced and well-credentialed performer as they prepare for their moment on stage when they perform their routines later this term.

Kindergarten 2025 Family Information Session

All families of children starting Kindergarten in 2025 at St Brigid’s are invited to attend our next Information Session which will take place on Monday 4^th November commencing at 5:30pm in our School Library. Looking forward to seeing our new and some of our current families at this event.

Enrolments for 2025

Enrolments for any class for 2025 are currently being finalised. Please, if you know of anyone intending to join the St Brigid's community for 2025, ask them to get their enrolment applications in now! 

Our staffing allocation is based on our enrolments at Census, taken at the start of August. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or would like to enquire about enrolling here at St Brigid's for 2025 or even sooner.

Take care and have a wonderful week ahead,

Tony Hunter,
Principal

Assistant Principal - Teaching & Learning

SUPPORTING MY CHILD WITH THEIR READING

The frequency of reading to children at a young age directly affects their schooling outcomes. Reading practice is more highly correlated with literacy achievement than time spent on homework, relationships with teachers, classroom environment, gender, family structure, or even socioeconomic status. Children who are read to more frequently at age 4-5 can achieve higher scores on the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) tests for both Reading and Numeracy in Year 3 (age 8 to 9). Parents and guardians can play an important role by encouraging their children to make reading an integral part of every day.

Some evidence-based tips for reading at home:

• Have conversations before, during, and after reading together
• Help children learn how to break sentences into words and words into syllables
• Help children sound out words
• Model reading fluently by practising reading aloud with your child

The words below are words used at school and the definitions may help you make connections with how your child is learning to read at school.

Decoding: The ability to translate a word from print to speech and decipher a new word by sounding it out. Decodable words follow the expected sound-spelling patterns and are typically easier for early readers to sound out.

Tricky words do not follow the typical sound-spelling patterns and are not easy for early readers to decode; children typically have to learn these words as whole words rather than by sounding them out. Examples of tricky words are “said,” “was,” and “there.”

Phonemic awareness is the ability to understand that sounds in spoken language work together to make words. For example, changing the phoneme /o/ in the word 'mop' to the phoneme /a/ changes the word 'mop' to 'map'

Phonological awareness is the ability to recognise that words are made up of individual sound units, for example, by syllables. In the word monkey, the syllables are mon-key. And by phoneme, the smallest unit of a spoken word, for example, in the word shark, the phonemes are sh- ar- k.

Please reach out if you need any further support or information about supporting your child with reading.

Vanessa Walters,
Assistant Principal - Teaching & Learning

Assistant Principal - Mission

Sacrament of First Reconciliation

The Sacrament of First Reconciliation will be celebrated on Thursday 14th November 2024 at 6pm in Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, Kyogle.  

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. During this sacrament we obtain absolution (forgiveness) for the sins we have committed against God. This sacrament is available to those students in Year 3 or above who have previously received the sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation.

Students who made the Sacrament of Confirmation this year have been given a note. If you would like your child to complete the Sacrament of First Reconciliation this year, please fill in the form and return it to the office as soon as possible. If your child did not receive a note please contact the office.

Whole School Parish Family Mass

It was wonderful to see so many families attend the Whole School Parish Family Mass on Sunday.

All Saints Day

Celebrated on November 1st, is a treasured time in the Catholic faith to honour all saints—known and unknown—who lived lives of deep faith and devotion to God. These holy men and women serve as inspiring role models, showing us the way to live with love, compassion, and courage in our daily lives. By celebrating All Saints Day, we remember the saints’ dedication to God’s mission and the way they championed peace, justice, and mercy, encouraging us to do the same. It’s a reminder that everyone, including each one of us, is called to live a life of holiness. At school, our children learn about the saints’ diverse lives and the ways they served others with love and humility. Let us pray that, inspired by their examples, we may all grow closer to God and to each other as a school community.

All are warmly welcome to join with the staff and students of St Brigid's on Friday 1st November for our All Saints Liturgy to take place in the Parish Hall at 12:30pm.

Faith in Action: Classroom Highlights

Year 5

This term in Year 5 they are learning about how people respond to the call of God so that they can relate it to their own lives. I had the pleasure of joining the students and Mrs. Griffiths for a Religious Education lesson last week. It was wonderful to see engagement and enthusiasm in the room as they were working in small groups to analyse Scripture.

Last week some of our Year 5 students and Mrs. Griffiths attended the Exuro Retreat. The focus was ‘be an example in your speech and actions’. By doing this you encourage others to be disciples of Jesus and show this through our words and actions. They had a wonderful day of leadership, faith and friendship!

RENEW (Religious Education Renewal in the Diocese of Lismore)

In Years 5 and 6, teachers are teaching a renewed Religious Education curriculum taught through an inquiry-based model, informed by contemporary research. The goal is for students to make deep connections to the Catholic faith in ways that are meaningful to them. This will allow students to ask rich questions and to develop 21st Century skills within an academically rigorous environment.

Courtney Hyde,
Assistant Principal - Mission

Wellbeing Team

Suddenly Big Kids

Parents and families of our Year 6 cohort may have found themselves thinking ahead to 2025 as their young people fast approach the big transition from primary to high school. 

Australian psychologist Dr Michael Carr-Gregg (michaelcarrgregg.com) has identified five elements that he believes are important in building resilience in children at this pivotal life stage:

1. A “charismatic adult”. Who is the adult in your child’s life that they identify with, respect and can draw strength and guidance from?
2. What is your child’s “spark”? What is your child especially good at? What do they really enjoy doing and light up when talking about? Acknowledge this competence and encourage their engagement and persistence.
3. Emotional Intelligence. Is your child “people smart”? Can they read social situations and respond appropriately? Encourage your child to work towards responding rather than reacting, and role play difficult situations to provide ideas and practise.
4. Meaning. Who or what is your child connected to that offers them more than material possessions? Opening the conversation will plant the seed that gets your child thinking about this.
5. Self-talk. Does your teen treat his or herself with compassion and kindness? Model self-compassion to help your child foster a supportive relationship with themselves.

Diwali Festival of Lights

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a significant Indian festival celebrated by millions around the world. This joyful occasion represents the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. We wish anyone celebrating Diwali a joyous celebration filled with love, laughter, and the warmth of family and friends. May this special time bring peace and prosperity to all!

Sports News

Summer Sports Trials begin next week!

Students in Years 4 and 5 are invited to attend the upcoming Richmond Zone Summer Sports Trials in a variety of sports at a variety of venues. These trials are open to boys and girls but only if they currently play or are particularly talented in the respective sports. Students are able to nominate for more than one sport. Please see Mrs Love for any further information and a nomination form. Details of all sports available below:-

Friday Swimming and Carnival

From Week 4 to Week 8 of this term, students in Years 3-6 will participate in swimming for sport on Fridays. K-2 will commence their swimming sessions on Fridays from Week 5 to Week 8, following the completion of their intensive swimming lessons.

Swimming Carnival Date:
Thursday, 12th December (Week 9)

If you are a season pass holder, there will be no cost for participation. Please contact the office and provide the code on the front of your card along with your child’s name before consenting to the event on Compass.

Important: Consent must be given prior to your child participating in swimming for sport or the carnival. Thank you!

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.

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 4 Attendance Results

Positive Behaviour 4 Learning (PB4L)

Making Jesus Real (MJR)

At last Friday's assembly, we proudly presented the MJR (Making Jesus Real) Awards to students who exemplify the "Be a Happy Chappy" philosophy, which teaches that happiness comes from doing the right thing. By following the SERS principles, we contribute to a positive school environment. Being a Happy Chappy means living the values of a WEST person.

Congratulations to the following students for being recognised as HAPPY CHAPPIESS! 

Lily, Khiyanne, Oscar, Djalai, Frankie, Emily, Evie, Stanley, All of year 3, Ivy & Ruby.

Keep up the great work, everyone! Let’s continue to support each other in making our school a joyful place.

Competition: Yearbook Front Page Design!

We are excited to announce the Yearbook Front Page Design Competition! Open to all students from Kindergarten to Year 6, this is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your artistic talents.

Details:

• Closing Date: 15th November
• Submission: All entries must be submitted to the office.
• Design: A4 size drawing.
• Important: Please include your name and year on the back of your drawing.

All submissions will be featured in the yearbook, and the winner will receive a Family Pass to the movies and a $50 gift card! Get creative and show us your best designs!

Wakkakirri

We are officially registered for Wakakirri 2025!

Students in Years 3-6 are encouraged to join us on this creative journey. Each year, we alternate between whole-school participation and a focus on Years 3-6, offering unique experiences for our students.

Calling All Parents, Families, Carers, and Friends!

As we prepare for Wakakirri 2025, we’re seeking your support! Production will run from the end of Term 1 to the beginning of Term 3, and Mrs. Kennedy would love your help.

Ways You Can Contribute:

• Fundraising
• Costumes
• Makeup and Hair
• Props
• Rehearsals
• Lighting 
• Suggestions

Interested in supporting? Click here.

Thank you for your support! Together, we can create an amazing experience for our students!

Parent Assembly

FREE WEBINAR TONIGHT 7PM: "Breaking Point" with Justin Coulson

Join a compelling session with one of Australia’s leading parenting experts, Justin Coulson. This free webinar will delve into the mental health challenges facing our young people today.
Date: Wednesday, 30th October
Duration: 1 hour
Justin will provide thoughtful, personal, and practical insights to help navigate these important issues. Register now via the link HERE

Supporting Healthy Tech Use as Your Child Transitions into High School

Join the final free eSafety webinar for parents this term!
Date: Tuesday 12 November
Time: 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
This 'lunch and learn' event is designed for parents and carers of upper primary school students (aged 11-12) and Year 7. Gain valuable insights and tips on how to support your child's tech use during this important transition. For more details, check out the flyer.

Celebrations

Congratulations to Kelli and Jimmi!

We are thrilled to announce the arrival of their beautiful baby boy, Charlie Sheddon, born on October 3rd at 5:05 PM, weighing 4.28 kg. They've fallen in love all over again! Wishing the family a lifetime of joy and happiness together!

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!

Congratulations to the following students who have shown tremendous effort and were presented with their awards at our assembly in Week 2.

Calendar

Breakfast Club Update

Breakfast Club Now Available 4 Days a Week! Breakfast Club is now offered Tuesday through Friday during term times! Students can grab breakfast from 8:30 AM at the school canteen, featuring delicious cereal and toast options. A 50 cent donation is appreciated to help keep the program running. Start your day right and set a positive tone for the day ahead!

Parish News

Parish Information
Our Lady of Sorrows Parish established 1916. Our Parish Family includes the town of Kyogle and the villages of Urbenville and Woodenbong.
Administrator: Fr Erick Quinteros | Phone: 0438 196 944 | Parish Office Phone: 02 6632 1074 | Email: kyogle@lismore.catholic.org.au | Facebook: @OurLadyofSorrowsCatholicChurch

Service Times
Kyogle Weekday Masses: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday at 9 AM. Please note that this schedule is subject to change. Saturday Vigil 6:00pm | Sunday 9:00am.
The Woodenbong Communion Service and Mass alternate every Saturday at 9 AM. The Sacrament of Reconciliation begins 30 minutes prior to Mass. Morning tea is served every Sunday after Mass, hosted by the parishioners. Everyone is welcome!

We are on Facebook! Click here for Our Lady of Sorrows Facebook Page  

Community News

Kyogle High School Year 6 into 7 Transition Program.
Please note ONLY students that have returned enrolment forms can attend transition days. Families are still welcome to complete an enrolment application before the transition days. 
If you have any questions please contact the Front Office 02 6632 1300 | kyogle-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Free Child Tickets from Casino Miniature Railway!

Casino Miniature Railway has generously donated FREE Child Tickets! If you're interested, swing by the office to grab yours. Please note, tickets are limited, so don’t miss out! Happy riding!

Kyogle Christmas in the Country

Get your tickets online for a chance to win a fabulous Christmas Hamper filled with local gifts, produce, and vouchers! Don’t miss out on this festive celebration—purchase your tickets here! For all the latest updates and event information, be sure to follow the Kyogle Show on Facebook here!

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