Newsletter Term 4 Week 10 (Wednesday 18th December 2024)

Our Christmas Pageant

Thank you to everyone who supported and attended our Christmas Pageant. It was a wonderful gathering of our community, filled with a warm, festive, and joyful atmosphere on the grounds of St B’s.

It was fantastic to see families coming together, sharing dinner, and enjoying the evening. Thank you to the local food trucks who attended.

Watching the students perform their routines was a highlight of the evening. The dedication they showed in keeping their performances together since Week 3 was impressive. It was also a joy to see the many proud parents and grandparents capturing special moments as their loved ones entertained the crowd.

Thank you for making this such a memorable and enjoyable event!

Our Gospel Reflection

The gospel passages of the second and third weeks of Advent this year featured John the Baptist in his role of preparing the way for the coming of Jesus; the one who announces the arrival of Christ. In this week’s passage, which goes back to an earlier point in the Gospel of Luke, we might say that the as yet unborn John is already recognising the presence of Christ. When Mary goes to visit her cousin, Elizabeth, the child within Elizabeth’s womb – John – leaps for joy. At the time of the Annunciation, when Mary was told by the angel Gabriel that she was to give birth to a child, Mary is also told that Elizabeth and Zechariah, although very old, were to also give birth to a child. Mary rushes to visit Elizabeth, not to make sure that the angel was telling her the truth but because the fact that Elizabeth was also pregnant was a sign of confirmation to Mary that she had indeed made the right decision. Elizabeth’s unlikely pregnancy confirms for Mary the even greater truth of her own pregnancy. These two women, separated by age and distance, share a common experience of God acting in their lives to bring about unlikely events. The lives of their two children will be inextricably linked such that the one who leapt for joy in his mother’s womb will eventually baptise the other and announce the arrival of his ministry to the people of Israel.
The joy expressed by Elizabeth and her child reflects the joy of all people of faith as we draw so close to the celebration of Christmas and the greatest expression of God’s love – to enter into the world as one just like us and share our experience.

From Our Acting Principal

As we draw close to the end of the year, it is now time to reflect on the successes, highlights and the challenges we have all experienced in 2024.
Staff have worked incredibly hard for long hours, to be there for our students and their families. As it is continually said, we are incredibly blessed by the staff we have here at St Brigid's. They certainly put the students first in everything they do. I am so, so proud of the staff and how they manoeuvred through this year with a new curriculum in English and Mathematics (3-6). I thank them for their enormous commitment to their students and their families. 

Congratulations to all the students for a year of great achievements. Their semester reports were posted on Compass this Monday 16th, reflecting their wonderful efforts and achievements.

Thank you to our families. You don’t realise how much it means to us all to hear a THANK YOU or WELL DONE. We have felt your support this year in many ways. We know how crucial it is to work as a team for your child and this year that spirit has been very evident. We thank you for your enduring support of our school.

I would like to thank Bronwyn McNulty and Jenn Ross who are both leaving us at the end of this year. Bronwyn has worked as our school counsellor 2 days per week and is leaving to pursue a business venture. We thank Bronwyn for her commitment to St. Brigid’s and I wish her and her family all the very best. I am pleased to announce that Megan Richie will take up the position of School Counsellor, beginning in 2025. Welcome Megan! We also say goodbye to Jenn Ross and I would like to thank her for her dedication to the school as a Teacher’s Aide over the last 2 years. Jenn is leaving to complete her educational studies. I wish Jenn all the very best for her continued study. 

And lastly, I would like to thank our whole school community of St Brigid’s for the support given to me while I have been in the Acting Principal role. I have enjoyed my time in this role continuing to learn new processes and again working closely with families.  It has been lovely having Mr Hunter involved in the end of year events and we are looking forward to Mr Hunter returning at the beginning of the 2025 school year.

Have a Merry Christmas and a safe and relaxing holiday.

Vanessa Walters,
Acting Principal.

Assistant Principal - Mission

Thank You for Supporting Our Christmas Pageant

What a joyful celebration we shared at our Christmas Pageant this year! It was wonderful to see so many of you in attendance, coming together as a school community to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas—the birth of Jesus, our source of hope and light.

The students put so much effort into their performances, and their enthusiasm truly shone on stage. From the angelic singing to the heartfelt retelling of the Nativity story, it was a special moment for us all. Your presence and encouragement made it even more meaningful for the children, and it was a powerful reminder of how we can share the joy of Christmas together.

A heartfelt thank you to all the parents who assisted with costumes, rehearsals, and behind-the-scenes preparations. Your support helped make this event a success and a treasured memory for our students.

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Thank You for Celebrating With Us

Thank you for joining us at our End-of-Year Liturgy and Awards Ceremony. It was a special opportunity to come together as a community to give thanks for the many blessings of this year and to celebrate the achievements of our students.

Congratulations to all our students on a wonderful year of growth and learning. Each child has made valuable contributions to our school, whether through their efforts in the classroom, participation in extracurricular activities, or the kindness and respect they have shown to others.

We are incredibly proud of the progress each student has made and the way they have lived out our school values throughout the year. We especially congratulate those who received awards, acknowledging their hard work, dedication, and personal growth.

As we prepare for the Christmas season, we thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in your child’s education. May your holidays be filled with peace, joy, and the love of Christ.

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Week 3 of Advent: The Joy of Anticipation

As we journey through the third week of Advent, also known as Gaudete Sunday, we are reminded of the joy that comes from knowing Christ is near. The rose-coloured candle on the Advent wreath symbolises this joy—a light that grows brighter as we approach the celebration of Jesus’ birth.

This week, let us reflect on how we bring joy to those around us. In our busy preparations for Christmas, we can find moments to smile, show kindness, and share hope. Simple acts, like a kind word or a helping hand, reflect the love of Christ to others.

At school, students have been learning about how they can be “joy-bringers” in their own way. From reaching out to a classmate in need to participating in service projects, they remind us all of the beauty of sharing joy in our daily lives.

As we light the third candle, let’s ask ourselves: How can we prepare our hearts for Jesus with joy and gratitude this week?

Wishing you all a blessed Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.
God bless,

Courtney Hyde,
Assistant Principal - Mission

Wellbeing Team

Caring for our bodies

Recharge your body

Supporting our bodies with sufficient rest, nourishment, relaxation and sleep, supports our minds too. 

- Sleep is vital – get enough for your needs.
- Rest and relaxation are as important as work and productivity. Aim to strike a balance between the two.
- Step outside to access a myriad of physical benefits – fresh air, nature, and exercise.

Happy holidays to all!

Online supports for parents and kids over the summer break

The last week of the school year is probably an apt time to remind families that there are a host of wonderful and free online resources available that provide support year-round, even when other services are closed during the holiday period.
Please refer to Parent Resources for a full list of contact information.

Splash into the summer school holidays with Vacation Club

Rainbow Region Kids is taking bookings for Vacation Club, running over the 2024-25 summer school holidays in NSW. But there are a limited number of spaces available for children and they’re filling up fast.

Vacation Club provides fun, safe and educational school break activities in Alstonville, Blakebrook, Casino West, Coffee Camp, Coorabell, Evans Head, Kyogle, Lismore Public, Lismore South, Mullumbimby, Ocean Shores, Wardell and Wollongbar.

Vacation Club is childcare subsidy approved, which means that families can receive government payments to cover the fees and could save up to 90% on service costs. All Vacation Club services are run by trained teachers and educators.

If you’re a parent or carer in one of these areas and want to get your kids out of the house and into some fun, safe and healthy summer school break activities, contact Rainbow Region Kids by calling 0429640075 or email rrkassist@nrcg.org.au

Booking Link: https://www.rainbowroos.com.au/funbooking

See the Community News section below to find out what’s on at the Kyogle Vacation Club this summer. 

MAI & Best Start Interviews

2025 Mathematical Assessment Interviews: Years 1–6

The Mathematics Assessment Interview (MAI) is a one-on-one session conducted with your child to gain a clear understanding of their current mathematical skills and concepts. This assessment is a vital tool that helps our teachers identify each student’s strengths and areas for development. The results allow us to personalise learning experiences and ensure every child is supported and challenged appropriately in their mathematical journey.

Booking Your Child’s Interview via Compass

Please take a moment to select a suitable date and time for your child’s assessment:

1. Go to your Compass App.
2. Click on Parent Student Teacher Conference on your home screen.
3. Select and secure your booking by clicking CONFIRM.

Kindly add this date and time to your calendar or print a copy, as reminders will not be sent out.

Important Information

• Arrival: Please arrive 5 minutes before the scheduled interview time.
• Attendance: Student-only interview; parents may wait in the library.
• Uniform: Students are not required to wear their uniform.
• Glasses: If your child wears glasses, please ensure they bring them to the interview.

For any questions or queries, please contact the school office at 6632 1988.

Uniform Shop Opening Hours

The uniform shop will be open on the following dates for families wishing to purchase uniforms for the new school year:

• Monday 3rd February
• Tuesday 4th February
• Wednesday 5th February
• Thursday 6th February 

We appreciate your support and cooperation in ensuring a smooth and successful transition back to school!

School Fees

School Fees Reminder

As we rely on school fees to cover our running expenses, we kindly ask that any outstanding fees be finalised promptly, if a payment plan has not been arranged. If you require assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact the school office.

The 2025 School Fees will be sent out in Week 2.

To make payments manageable, 2025 school fees can be paid using the following options:

• Yearly
• Per Term
• Monthly: Spread over 11 months
• Fortnightly: Divided into 20 fortnights
• Weekly: Spread across 40 weeks

These options ensure all fees are fully paid by the end of the school year. For more details or to set up a payment plan, please contact the school office.

Annual Fees per Child

The total annual fee includes the following components:

Payment Options

To support families, we offer a 10% discount on tuition fees for families enrolling a 2nd, 3rd, or 4th child.

Sports News

Swimming Carnival 2024

Last Thursday, 12th December, we held our annual Swimming Carnival at Kyogle Pool. It was a warm and sunny day, and the enthusiasm and spirit of the students, staff, and parents made it a truly memorable event.

A huge thank you to all the parents who volunteered their time throughout the day, we truly appreciate your support and dedication.

Congratulations to Doyle, the winning house, with an impressive 438 points! Close behind were Sutton with 410 points and Colahan in third place with 332 points.

We are also proud to recognise outstanding sportsmanship at the carnival. This year’s Sportsmanship Award for a Year 6 student was awarded to Lexie. Congratulations, Lexie, on this well-deserved recognition!

Results

Below are the results of our champions and runners-up from the day:

Student Awards

Congratulations to the following students who have shown tremendous effort and were presented with their awards at our assembly in Week 9.

Positive Behaviour 4 Learning (PB4L)

Making Jesus Real (MJR)

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!

Calendar

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

Rainbow Region Kids

Lismore Tennis Centre

Upcoming Tennis School Holiday Clinics in December 2024 & January 2025. 

Parent Resources

Online supports for parents and kids over the summer break

The last week of the school year is probably an apt time to remind families that there are a host of wonderful and free online resources available that provide support year-round, even when other services are closed during the holiday period:

For Parents

Triple P Parenting is an evidence-based program and all parents and carers of children under 12 can access one year of support for free here: https://www.triplep-parenting.net.au/au/free-parenting-courses/triple-p-online-under-12/

Choose from general parenting support or support specifically for parents/carers of anxious children.

Parentline NSW is a free telephone counselling and support service for parents and carers of children up to 18 years of age. The phone line – 1300 1300 52 – is manned by a team of trained professional counsellors from 9am to 9pm Mondays to Fridays and 4pm to 9pm on weekends. https://www.parentline.org.au/

For Children and Young People

Kids’ Helpline – 1800 55 1800 – is a free, 24/7 service available to children and young people aged from five to 25. Support is available via telephone or webchat. There are also a variety of resources online: www.kidshelpline.com.au

Headspace – 1800 650 890 – is Australia’s national youth mental health foundation, and provides mental health services to 12 to 25-year-olds in person, online and via phone. There are also a lot of resources available on the website https://headspace.org.au/

For Mental Health Crises

The NSW Mental Health Line – 1800 011 511 – is a free, 24/7 phone service that you can call if you are worried about your own or someone else’s mental health. The number is staffed by trained professionals who can offer mental health advice, complete brief assessments, make recommendations for appropriate care, and refer callers to other NSW Health mental health services. Some of the reasons that callers may contact the Mental Health Line include (but are not limited to):

- changes in mood that are worrying to you or others
- significant changes in personal hygiene or motivation
- difficulties with concentration
- confusion about what is real and what is not
- feelings of panic or intense anxiety
- thoughts or actions of hurting yourself or ending your life
- thoughts of harming someone else

Online Safety Basics (From www.esafety.gov.au) 

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