Term 1 Week 7
From the Principal
Lent
As we enter the second week of Lent, we continue our journey of reflection, prayer, and acts of kindness. This season invites us to deepen our faith and grow closer to one another through small sacrifices and thoughtful actions. Our school community is embracing this time of renewal, and we encourage all families to join in fostering a spirit of compassion and generosity throughout the remainder of Lent. Let us all take this opportunity to reflect on the meaning of this season and how we can bring hope and light to those around us.
Congrtulations Mrs Rooke!
This week we farewelled Mrs Rooke who has commenced her maternity leave. We wish her all the best and can not wait to hear the news of the newsest arrival to her family!
Attendance at school
We understand that regular attendance plays a critical role in the academic and social development of our students. When students attend school regularly, they are more likely to engage with the curriculum, build relationships with their peers, and develop a love for learning. It is essential to create a routine where every child can thrive and reach their full potential.
Why Regular Attendance Matters
When children are consistently present in class, they have the opportunity to:
- Engage in meaningful learning experiences every day
- Build important skills and knowledge that form the foundation for future academic success
- Foster positive relationships with their peers and teachers
- Stay on track with their learning and feel confident in their progress
Missing even a day of school can make a difference in a child's development. This is why we emphasize the importance of good attendance habits right from the start of their primary education journey.
Regular Monitoring and Updates
We regularly review and monitor each student's attendance record closely, ensuring that any concerns are addressed promptly. If there are patterns of frequent absence, you can expect a message or call from your class teacher to support you and address any underlying challenges your child may be facing.
Our goal is to work in partnership with families to make sure that all students have the support they need to be present and successful. If your child is struggling with attending school regularly, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
We understand that sometimes your child will be unable to attend school due to illness or an appointment. If your child will be absent, we ask you to record this through Compass. If you have any concerns accessing Compass, please contact the front office.
Upcoming information sessions and webinars for parents and carers
Parents and carers are the most important educators in their child’s life. As well as partnering directly with our school to support your child’s learning and wellbeing, there are a range of webinars and information sessions provided each month by reputable providers specifically for parents and carers- free of charge. To view a list of upcoming webinars and information sessions that may be of interest to you, click the link below at any time. The list will be updated weekly throughout the school term, so be sure to check the page regularly.
Fortnightly Frames
Celebrating the Jubilee year at Sacred Heart Cathedral with the dicoese. Thank you to the SJB representatives that were able to make it.
Thank you to year 3 who led our Ash Wednesday liturgy. It was a thoughtful way to start the Lenten season.
It was fabulous to meet with the SRC and hear from the students. The focus for the SRC will be to encourage student voice in areas that they feel are important at school and the community.
Every Friday morning we gather as a school community to acknowledge the achievements of our students with students of the week and our gotcha awards - Congratulations to Finnegan who are in the lead for the gotcha awards!
This Friday we celebrated International Day of Mathematics!
Each class completed activities looking at patterns and algebra, using different methods and materials.
Assistant Principal News
Harmony Day
Harmony Week celebrates Australia’s cultural diversity. At St John the Baptist, we celebrate inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for all Australians, from the Traditional Custodians of the Land to those who have come from many countries around the world. Harmony Week takes place in March each year and includes 21 March, the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Discrimination.
The theme for Harmony Week is “Harmony-we all have a role to play!” It is a time to celebrate and acknowledge cultural respect for all. At St John the Baptist, we have students and staff who come from Russia, China, Vietnam, Canada, Ireland, India, New Zealand, and the Philippines, just to name a few! This year, we will celebrate Harmony Day on Friday, March 21. Students can wear an orange accessory with their sports uniform. We will take part in activities that showcase the cultural diversity of our school community.
International Day of Mathematics 2025!
Celebrate the 2025 International Day of Mathematics: Where Creativity Meets Discovery!
Today marks “International Day of Mathematics.” This year’s theme highlights the deep connection between mathematics and art, celebrating the creativity that drives both fields. Mathematics in art unlocks new ideas, leading to stunning and inspiring creations.
Though they may seem distinct, mathematics and art have always been connected. All students took part today in a mathematics lesson that showcased the connection between mathematics, art and creativity. For more information on International Day of Mathematics, please click the link below:
Sporting News
Sporting Trials
Last week the Regional AFL, Netball and Soccer trials were held.
Congratulations to Ellie who attended the AFL trials, Lucille and Mia who attended the Netball trials and Archer, Hamish, Jack, Gracie, Grace and Isabelle who attended the Soccer trials. A huge congratulations to Grace who made the top 6 and will attend the DIO trials next week.
Cross Country
The school Cross Country will be held in Week 10. K/1 events will be held on Wednesday 2nd April at 2pm at St Mary's. Year 2-6 events will be held on Thursday 3rd April from 9:30am at Maitland Touch Fields. Please check Compass for more information.
Learning Support for all students
Important Information for Families Regarding Documentation, Therapy, and Observations
Documentation for visits to specialists
Our teaching staff are always happy to assist in completing documentation for students when required by medical and allied health specialists. To ensure we can provide thorough and timely support, we ask for two weeks’ notice for these requests. Without this time to prepare we may not be able to complete the required paperwork. Once completed, the documentation will be sent directly to the specialist who has requested it. If you would like to discuss the contents of the documentation before your appointment, please email the front office to arrange a suitable time.
Allied Health Support during school hours
A gentle reminder that parents must complete a Parent Request for Allied Health Support during school hours form and obtain approval before therapy sessions can take place at SJB. If therapists contact the school regarding appointments, they will be redirected to families to discuss arrangements directly.
Additionally, we have received requests from therapists wishing to observe students in the classroom or meet with teachers. Please note that classroom observations are only approved under special circumstances by the school principal, as we must consider the privacy and learning environment of all our students.
Our teachers are actively engaged in the classroom during the day including duties before and after school. Any essential meetings with therapists will also require approval from the principal to ensure they can be scheduled appropriately.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Student Representative Council
The Student Representative Council (SRC) recently met with Mrs Ferguson and our School Leaders for a productive morning tea to discuss the SRC’s role as the voice of the students, celebrate what makes our school great, and begin planning for the future. Moving forward, the SRC will now return to their classes to seek further student input and gather ideas for upcoming initiatives and improvements.
Choir News
Our choir is up and running! We are learning a brand new song to celebrate the Jubilee year of the Church.
Students in Years 3 to 6 - there's still time to join 🎵🎵
Class Awards
Congratulations to our class award winners for Week 6 & 7!
Kindergarten: Ivy R, Rosie N, Sebastian S, Georgia C, Dottie P, Levi T
Year 1: Romie C, Harper R, Karson W, Isla T, Benjamin O, Florence H
Year 2: Dottie B, Layla T, Phoebe M, Ruby H, Mackenzie J, Eddie S
Year 3: Edie M, Thomas O, Logan B, Elle W, Harvey, Kailen,
Year 4: Elsy B, Marlowe D, Riley P
Year 5: Meila A, Simon L, Leilani D
Year 6: Emmett R, Ruby A, Maeve E, Billy D, Stella L. Evie W
Finance
School Fee Statements have been transmitted. Please check your emails (also your junk folder). If you have not received your statement, please email maj-admin@mn.catholic.edu.au
Please note: Joint fee accounts are emailed to one debtor only. If you are paying in instalments, we kindly request that you make your first payment by 31 March 2025.