Week 1, Term 3 - 2024

Welcome

Dear St James Community,

Welcome to Term 3; we hope everyone enjoyed a relaxing and enjoyable holiday break and is ready for the learning, spirituality and joy that awaits us throughout Term 3.

I would like to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the entire community for supporting my recent renewal and long service leave.  Particularly I acknowledge Kylie Cane and Karen Sanderson who did a tremendous job as Acting-Principals whilst I was away.

Reflecting on my pilgrimage to St James’ Church, London, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Paris, the seven holy sites in Rome, and the Basilica of Santi Apostoli where the relics of St James the Less are housed, I found myself overwhelmed with a profound sense of awe and reverence.  Each church, steeped in centuries of history and spirituality, offered a unique opportunity for introspection and connection with my faith.  Following the pilgrimage I attended the Future-Focused Schools Conference in Washington, which was a learning experience that left me energised and inspired about the future of education.  Over the course of the conference, I had the privilege of engaging with leading educators, innovators, and thought leaders who are pioneering new approaches to teaching and learning in the 21st century.

At today's assembly I presented the children with some gifts from my pilgrimage that were blessed at the Vatican, and my hope is that they will support our connections with Christ and the universal Catholic Church.  The beautiful San Damiano Cross is an iconic crucifix associated with St. Francis of Assisi.  According to tradition, St. Francis received his divine mission to "rebuild my Church" while praying before this cross in the dilapidated San Damiano chapel.  Thus, I hope as we view this cross in the office, we are all reminded of how we can follow St Francis and continue to build our Church.  I also presented the children with a tapestry of the Holy Family, which will be placed in the office as a symbol of blessing and intercession from Jesus, Mary and Joseph to our "Family in Christ".  The Holy Family icon was also given to each class for their prayer space, so that the Holy Family can also guide each class family.  

During my time away, through the renewal leave program and long service leave I was able to disconnect from the daily demands of work and dedicate myself to personal renewal, growth, and revitalisation.  This period of rest and relaxation has allowed me to return with a fresh perspective, ready to journey forward to support our school to flourish.  It is wonderful to be back at St James and I look forward to seeing you all again over the coming weeks.

Pilgrimage

Mary MacKillop

Thursday, August 8th is feast day of St Mary MacKillop.  As we commemorate this special day, we honour the remarkable legacy of Mary MacKillop, a true beacon of light in Australia's history.  Mary's unwavering dedication to education and compassion continues to inspire us.  Mary MacKillop, affectionately known as Saint Mary of the Cross, blazed trails in the 19th century by founding the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart.  With a profound belief in the transformative power of education, she established schools across Australia, particularly in rural and disadvantaged areas, providing opportunities for countless children to learn and grow.

Beyond her educational endeavors, Mary embodied compassion in action. She tirelessly worked to support the poor, the marginalized, and those in need, embodying the spirit of service and empathy.

As we reflect on Mary MacKillop's life and achievements, let us rekindle her spirit of resilience, kindness, and determination in our own lives.  May her legacy continue to inspire us to make a positive difference in our communities and strive for a world where education and compassion reign supreme.

In honour of Mary MacKillop, let us commit ourselves to fostering a culture of learning, empathy, and inclusion, ensuring that her vision of a better world lives on.  Parents and friends are invited to our special Light the Way to celebrate Feast Day of St Mary of the Cross, on Monday, August 5th at 8:40am in the MPC.

Tweed Public Speaking

Recently students self-nominated to enter the St James Public Speaking event; we congratulate all of the students who participated in this; they all did an amazing job, showing courage and skill to speak in front of an audience.  A selection of students will represent St James at the Tweed Public Speaking event on Thursday, August 8th.  We wish them all the best.

- Early Stage 1: Olsen W and Matilda P

- Stage 1: Evie B and Michael B

- Stage 2: Asha M and Violet P

- Stage 3: Elspeth M and Vincent P

Zone Athletics

All the best to the following students who will represent St James at the Zone Athletics on Friday, August 2nd.  Callum A, Harley B, Xavier B, Rykar B, Lucas C, Iziah C, Jed C, Violet C, Max C, Grace C, Rosalie D, Cooper D, Billy D, Emilia DS, Lucia DS, Parker D, Sunny E, Tahlia F, Van G, Lacey G, Hype G, Timothy H, Bethany I, Ezekiel I, Jovan J, Braxton K, Sonny L, Ikal M, Zoe M, Jake M, Archer M, Maya PM , Sienna P, Grace R, Junia R, Edward S, Eden S, Luca T, Jessica V, Ashton V, Hannah W, Kayla W, Liam W, Ava W, Willow W

Student Reports - Survey

We value your input and believe that effective communication about student progress is crucial for their success. To ensure our diocesan student report templates are meeting your needs, we kindly request your participation in a brief survey. Please access this link to provide confidential feedback.  Thank you for your time and support.

Canteen News

As you are aware we have had a supply issue with our Sushi for the school canteen.  We have been able to secure the same supplier, but for this to occur, Sushi will need to be ordered by 11am the day before ie: Mondays and Thursdays for arrival on our canteen days (Tuesdays & Fridays). 

All other menu items are available as per the normal schedule.

Ordering options for Sushi only:
Compass on Mondays and Thursdays by the 11am cut-off.

We thank you again for your support and assistance with this.

Parent Community Group

Our next meeting of the Parent Community Group will be held in the MPC on Thursday, August 8th (7pm).  Refreshments and conversation will help our discussions, as we work together to enhance our beautiful school and students' experiences.  The first meeting of the Parent Community Group in Term 2 was held in the evening, with the hope that more parents could be involved; 5 parents attended.  We decided to keep this time this term and we're aiming to at least double attendance, so we hope to see you there.  

The agenda will include:

- Discussing and organising the proposed Term 3 Student Disco.

- Brainstorming ideas and possible events for an adults-only Term 3 event.

- Parent input into re-imaging the St James School Ethos (Vision, Mission and Outcomes).

- Parent Learning: Rights and Responsibilities of Students at St James Primary.

School Improvement Goals: Fortnightly update

Short Term Goals

To commence Term 3 our short-term goal will be  "Students will reconnect with their peers and teachers and maintain a high standard of school attendance."  

Term 3 Dates & Events

Please note the upcoming events scheduled for Term 3. 

- July 29th: NAIDOC Week commences.

- August 2nd: Zone Athletics.

- August 5th: Mary MacKillop liturgy.

- August 8th: Parent Community Group Meeting.

- August 8th: Tweed Public Speaking event (selected students).

- August 23rd: Book Week Dress up day & Grandparents Day.

- August 27th - 29th: Fathers Day Stall (8am-8:30am each day) - Mum volunteers if you are able to assist please email bpp@lism.catholic.edu.au

- August 27th - 29th: Learning Conferences.

- August 30th: Father's Day Breakfast - Mum volunteers if you are able to assist please email bpp@lism.catholic.edu.au

- September 5th: Sacrament of Confirmation.

- September 6th: Stage 3 gala day.

- September 12th: Safe of Socials incursion

- September 20th: R U OK day.

- September 26th: Final day of Term 3 & School Spectacular (evening event)

- September 27th: Pupil Free Day.

Please note that the student disco and parent-only event dates will be determined after the Parent Community Group meeting on August 8th.

Thumbs-up

- All students for returning to school positively.

- Kylie Cane and Karen Sanderson for being wonderful Acting-Principals.

- Our maintenance crew who worked tirelessly during the break to ensure our learning environment was beautiful.  

- Wade Maxworthy for our impressive office renovations. Your hard work, meticulous attention to detail and dedication to the project were truly impressive, as always.

- The Smithwick, Smith, Long & Sanderson  families for caring for our chickens over the holidays.

To conclude

Next week we will celebrate NAIDOC Week, a time to recognise and celebrate the rich culture, history, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.  This annual observance is not just a week; it's a profound opportunity for all Australians to reflect, learn, and come together in unity.

This year's theme is, "Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud."  The theme honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture – with fire a symbol of connection to Country, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Throughout NAIDOC Week, students will engage in meaningful conversations, attend events, and be  immerse in Indigenous art, music, dance, and storytelling.  Let's commit to ongoing reconciliation efforts and advocate for justice, equality, and empowerment for Indigenous communities.

Together, let's honour NAIDOC Week not just with words, but with action, as we strive towards a future of unity, respect, and reconciliation. 

With blessings,

Nic

Upcoming events

Please note the following upcoming events......

Parenting support & learning

Please note the following parenting supporting & learning items.....

eSafety Parent Webinars Term 3

Understanding how to support your child with online gaming
Suitable for parents and carers of children and young people in primary and early secondary school.
Tuesday, 30 July, 12.30pm
Tuesday, 3 September, 12.30pm
Register here

Consent and online boundaries: How to support your primary-aged child
Suitable for parents and carers of children in primary school.
Tuesday, 13 August, 12.30 pm
Wednesday, 11 September, 12.30 pm
Register here

An introduction to online safety and emerging technologies
Suitable for parents and carers of children and parents in primary and secondary school.
Wednesday, 24 July, 2.30pm
Thursday, 5 September, 12.30pm
Register here

Item 7: Friendships Start with Self-Concept

A child's self-concept significantly influences their social development. When children have
a positive self-view, they tend to engage in social interactions confidently and resiliently,
handling challenges and peer interactions constructively. A strong self-concept helps
children develop greater social competence, including effective communication, empathy,
and friendship-building skills. Self-concept also plays a crucial role in identity formation,
helping children understand their values, beliefs, and interests and fostering authentic
connections and a sense of belonging.
What can parents do to nurture a positive self-concept?
Every child is unique so your pathway will not be the same.
Here are some tips from the Child Development Clinic
● Demonstrate affection and love towards your child through both your words
and actions. Communicate your enjoyment of spending time with them openly
and frequently.
● Take the time to truly understand your child. Show genuine interest in their
hobbies, friendships, and daily experiences. Ask them about their day and listen
attentively to their thoughts and feelings, accepting that their perspective may
differ from your own without judgment or criticism.
● Engage in quality bonding activities with your child that align with their interests
and strengths. Play games and explore activities together that they find
enjoyable and captivating.
● Encourage your child to cultivate relationships with other supportive individuals,
such as friends, family members, and community groups, fostering a sense of
belonging and acceptance.
● Acknowledge and praise your child's efforts and persistence rather than solely
focusing on their successes. Celebrate their progress and achievements while
emphasising the importance of trying their best without placing undue pressure
on them to excel.
● Help your child reframe failures or disappointments as valuable opportunities
for learning and personal growth.
● Refrain from labelling your child as either "good" or "bad," opting instead to
recognise and praise their strengths, positive qualities, and commendable
behaviours. Offer specific compliments that highlight their creativity, effort, and
kindness.

● Avoid comparing your child to their siblings or peers, as this can undermine
their self-esteem. Encourage them to focus on their own progress and
accomplishments rather than measuring themselves against others.

If you’re worried that your child lacks self-esteem, you can get help. Talk to your child’s
teacher or call Parent Line NSW.

Other information

Please note the following additional information.....