Newsletter Term 2 Week 1 (Wednesday 1st May 2024)

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Cross Country 

At yesterday's School Cross-Country, all students displayed remarkable enthusiasm and sportsmanship, despite the event being postponed a couple of times due to weather conditions. The event finally saw a fantastic turnout, with everyone contributing to it's success.

St Brigid's Cross Country

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Our Gospel Reflection

This Sunday’s Gospel follows immediately after the Gospel proclaimed last week, in which Jesus taught that he was the vine and that his disciples were the branches. In the example of the vine and the branches, we learned that our union with Jesus will lead to fruitful service. Sunday’s reading extends this teaching to describe the kind of service that Christians are called upon to offer to others.

In family life, we have many opportunities to show love in action. Each time we postpone a task to tend to the needs of another, we show ourselves to be on the path to following the example of love shown to us by Jesus. Sometimes the sacrifices we are called upon to make for others are small. But these small choices to love and to serve others prepare us for the larger choices and sacrifices that we may be called upon to make. If we are people who have practiced showing our love for others with generosity, we will also be people who are willing to lay down our lives for those we love.

As you gather as a family, talk about the meaning of the word generosity. Ask each family member to describe an action that shows generosity. To be generous is to give freely to others without counting the cost. Recall that generosity is one of the Fruits of the Holy Spirit. Introduce this Gospel reading by saying that Jesus taught us to be generous in showing our love for one another. Read together this Gospel, John 15:9-17. What examples did Jesus give to us that show this kind of love? (washing his disciples’ feet; accepting death on the cross) Jesus helps us to show this kind of love to others. In Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus promised that God will give us whatever we ask for. One of the things we can ask for from God is a generous spirit so that we can love others as Jesus did.

From Our Principal

Welcome back after what we hope was a restful holiday break. After an eleven week term, a couple of weeks of rest before we recommence for Term 2 is welcome for staff and students alike. 

I would like to thank our staff and students for the way they finished the first term. In Week 11, celebrating what it means to be a part of our large system of Catholic Education, was a lovely way to finish the term and a reminder of the hard work and sacrifices of those Catholic educators who started and staffed St Brigid’s’s over the years. We also had a wonderful day of celebration with our first Rewards Day for the year. Thanks so much to all who took part for your wonderful support of our school SERS (Safety, Effort, Respect and Self-Responsibility).

ANZAC Day

I want to thank all students and staff who were able to make it to the Kyogle RSL sub Branch ANZAC Day March and ceremony last Thursday. It was a terrific representation of our school and highlights the importance of this day to so many. I was delighted to receive so many positive comments on the way our School Captains, Belle and Parker delivered their readings at the Ceremony and they were up early to also attend and speak at the Dawn Service.
As a school we were able to hold our ANZAC Liturgy at school on Monday afternoon. We were graced with the presence of Bruce McKenzie and Kevin Ibbertson from the Kyogle RSL sub Branch and once again the students demonstrated their respect and honour of this important day. A huge thank you to Mrs Shedden for her work in preparing our ANZAC Day Ceremony. 

Cross Country

We managed to complete our Cross Country yesterday on our third attempt and we extend a big vote of thanks to Mrs Love and our staff for ensuring we were able to complete this. It was wonderful to witness the way in which our older students got in and supported the younger ones at Cross Country especially as it was so warm. All details are in the Sports News further into this newsletter. 
We look forward to a term full of fun, learning and community spirit and thank our families for their support. 

Welcome

It is always good at the start of the term to welcome new students and we extend a big welcome to Rumo Habechez and his family who join us in Year 4. It is wonderful to have you all here as a part of the St Brigid’s Community.

We also extend a warm welcome and congratulations to Mrs Kayla Farrell (nee Robertson) following her marriage to Riley at the end of last term. We hope that you both had a wonderful day of celebration with family and friends as you commence your married life together.

Kevin Hogan Leadership Meeting

Well done to Carter Hudson, Parker Kennedy, Noah Schneider, Byron Cameron-Keed, Harlow Schneider and Brooklyn Stubbings who represented St Brigid's by attending Mr Kevin Hogan’s annual School Leadership gathering in the holidays.

This year's presenter was Lyn Larsen AM, the youngest Australian Cricket Captain and home-grown athlete from Tuntable Creek.

Incredibly humble, Lyn shared her extraordinary experiences in leadership and how she worked to grow herself as a leader through the process. Her advice to students to be persistent and hard-working and to wear the leadership hat they are given hit home for our young leaders. Thank you to Lyn for being an inspiration on and off the field. 

Tell Them From Me Surveys

In the coming weeks we will be inviting students, teachers and parents to provide feedback on their experience of our school using an online survey. The surveys are an important part of our whole-school evaluation and planning process.
We would like to invite you to complete the Tell Them From Me (TTFM) Partners in Learning survey. As we value the role of parents and carers within our school community we would greatly appreciate your feedback. The information you provide will be used to maintain our commitment to working together in partnership to further improve student learning and wellbeing at St Brigid’s. The survey is anonymous and will take approximately 20 minutes to complete and will be open from Monday 6 May (Week 2, Term 2) through to Friday 24 May (end of Week 4, Term 2). We will share the survey link early next week.

Take care and have a wonderful week,

Tony

Assistant Principal News- Mission

Confirmation Information Night 

There will be an information night for those students making the sacrament of Confirmation on Monday, 6th May. The information session will run from 5.30 - 6.00 pm in the library. If you are unable to attend the session, please make contact with myself or Mrs Vicki Jansen. As a part of preparation for the sacrament, students and their families are expected to attend mass in the lead up to the sacrament.

ANZAC Day Liturgy

On Monday, we gathered as a school community for an ANZAC Day prayer service. We thank Mr Bruce Mackenzie and Mr Kevin Ibbertson for being a part of this prayer service. It was lovely to see students introduce themselves, shake hands and ask questions about Mr Mackenzie and Mr Ibbertson’s service. Our special guests were very touched by how reverent and engaged our students were during the prayer service. Well done students! 

Mother's Day 

On Friday, May 10th we will have our Mother’s Day celebrations here at school. We will begin with a liturgy in the hall, followed by a BYO picnic lunch on the grounds and pamper stations. We are looking forward to seeing all the women who play an important role in the lives of our students here for our celebrations. In preparation for the liturgy I am seeking photos of students with the women who have the role of Mum to be sent to me via email by Monday 6th. Please email photos to kelli.bugden@lism.catholic.edu.au and they will be used in our liturgy. 

Kelli-Ann Shedden                                                                                                                                                                     Assistant Principal, Mission. 

From the Wellbeing Team

Relish the return to routine

School holidays can offer wonderful moments of flexibility and spontaneity. But returning to routine is not all bad – on the contrary, establishing and following regular routines offers a raft of benefits!

1. Routines lower stress and anxiety                                                                                                                          Following planned, regular and predictable routines is something that calm and organised families have in common. When children know what to expect and when to expect it, this promotes a sense of safety and reduces feelings of stress and anxiety.
   
2. Routines increase autonomy and confidence                                                                                                                If children know what is expected of them, and when they are expected to do it, this leads to an increase in self-directed behaviour and cooperation. It also gives children a greater sense of autonomy and self-reliance, and the confidence to meet expectations and enjoy doing it!
3. Routines establish healthy habits                                                                                                                          Routines help everyone to better manage their time. Routines enable us to develop and stick to healthy and constructive habits, such as brushing our teeth, getting sufficient sleep, and getting some exercise.
4. Routines help us stay on track                                                                                                                                   Having a familiar routine makes it less likely that we will forget to complete important tasks or attend important appointments, such as taking medication or attending meetings or planned activities.
5. Routines give us things to look forward to                                                                                                                  The word “routine” is often used as a synonym for “boring” or “predictable”. But routines don’t have to be all about the things we have to get done. They should also include regular time for the things we love to do, such as spending time connecting with family. For example, routines might include regular nightly parent and child reading time, or weekly family game nights.

We hope that you all embrace the routine of returning to St Brigid’s for a wonderful Term 2!

 Wellbeing Team

School Fees

As we start the new term, we kindly remind you to check the Compass app for the latest school fees posted at the end of last term. 

Should you have any questions or concerns regarding the fees listed, please don't hesitate to contact the school office. 

Thank you for your cooperation and ongoing support in providing the best educational experience for our students.

Walk Safely to School Day

Join us for a fun-filled morning on Thursday, May 9th, as we celebrate Walk Safely to School Day!

🕗 Event Schedule:

• 8:00 AM: Meet at the skate park for playtime and socialising before the walk.
• Walk Safely to School: Join us in walking safely to school together.
• Healthy Breakfast: Enjoy a nutritious breakfast at school upon arrival.

This event is open to all! Let's promote a healthy lifestyle while having a great time as a community. See you there!

School Community Forum Fundraiser

We're thrilled to report that the 2024 Kyogle Garden and Foliage Show was a tremendous success once again!

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed their incredible donations of ingredients and baked goods. Your generosity helped create a delightful spread that received numerous compliments.

A special shoutout goes to those who dedicated their time and effort on Friday and Saturday, working tirelessly in the canteen, serving, preparing food and drinks, and assisting with setup and packing down each day. Your hard work and dedication were truly appreciated and played a significant role in the event's success. We couldn't have done it without you!

Thank you all for your valuable support,

Kimberley Langley and Erin Anderson (School Community Forum Fundraising Team)

Canteen Helpers Needed

We're reaching out to ask for your support with our school canteen operations. Your assistance, whether for one day in the term or more, makes a significant impact on our school community. Join us on Mondays and become an essential part of our students' school experience. Your involvement not only supports our canteen but also strengthens our sense of community. Please sign up today and help us make Mondays a day to remember! Link to sign up 

• Monday 6th May (Week 2) Michaela Ernst, Rebekah Walters
• Monday 13th May (Week 3) Volunteer required 
• Monday 20th May (Week 4) Volunteer required 
• Monday 27th May (Week 5) Volunteer required 
• Monday 3rd June (Week 6) Volunteer required 
• Monday 17th June (Week 8) Michaela Ernst
• Monday 24th June (Week 9) Volunteer required 
• Monday 1st July (Week 10) Volunteer required 

Thank you for your ongoing support.

North Coast Health Connect

North Coast Health Connect is a free (bulk billing) new service providing health support and advice from registered nurses 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including public holidays. If you are a resident or visitor to the North Coast, you can speak or live chat with a nurse. The nurse will ask some questions to understand what’s troubling you and then provide advice on what your next step should be.

 This may include self-care advice to help you to manage your health (or that of a loved one) from home, or the nurse may recommend a GP appointment or a consultation with a pharmacist. The nurses are able to book an appointment for you directly with a local general practice or pharmacy or if appropriate, can transfer you to a 24/7 GP telehealth service. If the nurse believes you need to attend an emergency department or see a different health service, they will let you know.

 Visit https://northcoasthealthconnect.org.au/   for more info and save as a contact for when you need it

https://northcoasthealthconnect.org.au/communication-resources/ (1)

visiting https://qrco.de/bdkiJm or by scanning the QR code below.         

This incredible service, will help families access ‘on the day’ healthcare which is bulkbilled and is a vital and important service in this area. Currently we have 220 GP appointments each week, supported by 23 GP clinics, across the entire North Coast region to access. This area includes Laurieton right through to Tweed Heads

Please reach out if I can do anything further to assist you

Warm regards,                                                                                                                                                                                       Ally Pope                                                                                                                                                                                        Engagement Manager, Healthy North Coast                                                                                                                             Amplar Health                                                                                                                                                                                            Home Based - Wauchope NSW, 2446
M 0418 976 274  E Allison.Pope@amplarhealth.com.au

Sports News - Cross Country 2024

With our last two scheduled dates for cross being postponed due to the rain, yesterday the sun was shining and we were able to successfully run the cross country. The students all showed a great amount of sportsmanship cheering each other on during all events throughout the morning. 
Congratulations to our winning house Colahan with 132 points, followed by Doyle in second place on 118 points and 3rd place getters Sutton on 116 points.

The top three in each age group from 8yrs-12/13yrs boy and girls will now head to Richmond zone cross country which is being held next Tuesday 7th May at Hepburn Park. This event will require parents to transport their children to and from the event.

Congratulations to our Champions and Runners Up for the day:
5yrs girls Champion Khiyanne Green, runner up Angel Jinto and 3rd place Sophie Maximiadis
5yrs boys Champion Naythan Lwin
6yrs girls Champion Harper Grieves, runner up Bridgette Higgins, 3rd place Kendall Haggart
6yrs boys Champion Oak Charlton-Dever, runner up David Nibu, 3rd place Harvey Matthews
7yrs girls Champion Niarah Walker, runner up Milla Flanagan, 3rd Place Kaya Hardwick
7yrs boys Champion Cooper Goebel, runner up William Argall, 3rd place George Schottelius

8yrs girls Champion Emliy Kennelly, runner up Aurelia Mancini, 3rd place Louise Calvey
8yrs boys Champion Zion Dowd, runner up Liam Bowden , 3rd place George Marychurch
9yrs Girls Champion Elliarna Devenish, runner up Nyima Hutton, 3rd place Kinsley Whiting
9yrs Boys Champion Hamish Laarhoven, runner up Stanley Holloway, 3rd place Jack Gibson
10yrs girls Champion Lola Lindsay, runner up Peyhton Bateman, 3rd place Ella Garred
10yrs boys Champion Michael Walker, runner up Kobe Dever, 3rd place Danny Kennedy
11yrs Girls Champion Piper Marychurch, runner up Brooklyn Stubbings, 3rd Place Alaska Argall
11yrs boys Champion Wyatt Brown, runner up Ted Standfield, 3rd place Adam Bryant
12yrs Girls Champion Hannah Kennelly, runner up Belle Clarke, 3rd place Tahnesha Walker/ Ruby Wright
12yrs boys Champions Parker Kennedy and Noah Schneider , 3rd place Yari Howes

All information for zone cross country will come through on compass today

Yours in Sport                                                                                                                                                                                              Lee Love

Stars of the Week

One of our school goals this year is to have an average weekly attendace 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.

For term 1 week 11 the class with the best average attendance was Year 4 with 92.77% and the whole school average was 81.12%. 

Remember our whole school goal is 90%. The whole school average weekly attendance for last term is as follows:

Week 2: 91.1% - Kindergarten (98.3%), Year 3 (96.4%), Year 1 (94.5%) 

Week 3: 89.7% - Year 6 (95.5%), Year 1 (93.3%), Year 4 (92.9%) 

Week 4: 92% - Year 3 (94.05%), Year 6 (93.4%), Year 2 (93.1%)  Year 4 (92.66%)

Week 5: 89.7% - Year 6 (94.6%), Kindergarten (93.6%), Year 1 (92.8%)

Week 6: 86.9% - Year 1 and Year 3 (91.4%), Year 2 (90.5%), Year 4 (90.1%)

Week 7: 86.9% - Year 3 (95.5%), Year 4(89.4%), Year 6 (88.2%)

Week 8: 88.7% - Kinder (95.6). Yr 4 (95%), Yr 2 (87.6) 

Week 9: 86.75% - Year 6 (90.8%), Year 1 (90.3%), Yr 4 (89.2%)

Week 10: 83.5% - Year 4 (88.1%), Year 1 (87.5%), Yr 3 & Kinder  (85%)

Week 11: 83.5% - Year 4 (92.77%), Year 5 (85.71%),  Kinder  (84.58%)

It is essential that every student is at school every day as attendance matters to support your child's learning.

Attendance Matters

On-time to school means your child is on track to unleash their potential.

Arriving on time to school is a fundamental aspect of a child's educational experience and plays a crucial role in unlocking their full potential. Here are several reasons why being on time to school is important for a child's academic and personal development:

• Consistent Learning Opportunities. Being on time ensures that your child doesn't miss the beginning of lessons, announcements, or important information shared at the start of the school day. This consistency in attendance provides a steady flow of learning opportunities.
• Establishing a Routine. Timely arrival helps children establish a morning routine, promoting organisation and time management skills. Consistent routines contribute to a sense of stability and preparedness for the day's activities.

• Reduced Disruptions. Arriving on time minimises disruptions for both the child and the class. Late arrivals can interrupt the flow of lessons and can be distracting for the child and their peers.
• Building Respect for Punctuality. Punctuality is a valuable life skill. By consistently arriving on time to school, children develop a sense of responsibility.

Student Awards Week 11

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

• Kindergarten - All of Kinder for being fantastic learners  
• Year 1 - Brodie D, Niarah W
• Year 2 - Abi A, Kaya H
• Year 3 - Frankie L, Emily K
  
• Year 4 - Nate J, Chance F, Byron CK
• Year 5 - Paityn F
• Year 6 - Indigo D
• Principal Awards - Ryder N, Mabel S, Lane C

Positive Behaviour 4 Learning (PB4L)

Term 2 Week 1 Focus:

I know classroom routines and the expectations in my classroom. 

Happy Birthday to You

Sending warm wishes to all the children who celebrated their birthdays during the holidays or have one coming up in the following week. May your special day be filled with joy and memorable moments! 

Upcoming Dates Term 2

Week 1

• Wed 1st -Sydney & Canberra Trip Meeting 6pm
• Fri 3rd - R4L starts 9.30 - 1pm 
  • Whole School Photo
• Sun 5th - 6th Sunday of Easter 

Week 2  

• Mon 6th  - Confirmation Information Meeting 5.30pm 
• Tue 7th - Richmond Zone Cross Country 
• Thur 9th  - Walk Safely to School Day
  • Kinder Kafe for Mothers Day Afternoon Tea 1.40pm 
• Fri 10th - Mothers Day Liturgy and Picnic Lunch 
• Sun 12th - The Acension of the Lord
  • Mother's Day 

Week 3 

• Tue 14th - School Community Forum Meeting 3:30pm in School Library