Dear Parents and Carers,

It was great to see many parents take the opportunity for a parent teacher interview this week. Working in partnership home / school is so important and we value planned opportunities to discuss your children and their learning journey and engagement at school. If you were unable to make time at the end of Term 2, or this week, please consider emailing your child's teacher to make a time for a phone chat or in-person meeting. 

Catholic Education Commission On Monday morning we are looking forward to the Catholic Education Commissioners visiting St Patrick's for a school tour and morning tea. We look forward to showcasing some of the great Maths and English learning @StPats and giving some student representatives from each class the opportunity to talk about life and learning at St Patrick's.

MultiCultural Event As we enjoy the growing cultural diversity in our school and community, we are planning 'A Taste of St Pat's' event for Friday 18th October (Week 1, Term 4). The event will be from 3.30-5.00pm in the hall and on the flats.

We plan to have a marketplace where each stall represents the cultural heritage of our St Patrick's students. The stalls will be designed and hosted by parents and children and could have some or all of the following to share culture

• Food
• Music
• Games
• Stories
• National costumes
• History
• Artefacts

Planning is beginning now! We need you! Do you have a cultural heritage that you'd like to celebrate? Are you willing to set up a market place stall? Can you coordinate the parent group from your cultural background? Please contact Mrs Grant or myself to get started! emma.grant@cg.catholic.edu.au  jo.scottpegum@cg.catholic.edu.au

Have a lovely weekend.

Blessings

Jo

Supporting Students to Build Positive Relationships

This week at school, our students have been diving into the world of imaginative play! From creating their own magical kingdoms in the sand pit to embarking on space adventures, the children have been exploring various imaginative play options that spark creativity and teamwork.

The Power of Imaginative Play in Building Positive Relationships

Imaginative play is a cornerstone of childhood development, offering a wealth of benefits that extend far beyond simple fun. Through imaginative play, children explore their creativity, develop problem-solving skills, and build positive relationships with their peers.

Building Positive Relationships

When children engage in imaginative play, they learn to cooperate, negotiate, and empathize with others. Whether they’re pretending to be superheroes, playing house, or creating their own fantasy worlds, these activities require them to communicate and collaborate. This shared experience fosters strong bonds and helps children understand different perspectives, laying the groundwork for healthy, positive relationships.

Balancing Media Influence

It’s important to be mindful of the content your child is exposed to through social media and video games. These platforms can sometimes introduce themes that are not suitable for young minds. Monitor their media consumption and discuss the difference between real and make-believe, helping them understand appropriate ways to incorporate what they see into their play.

By fostering a healthy environment for imaginative play, you are helping your child develop essential social skills and build lasting, positive relationships. Let’s work together to support our children’s growth and creativity!

Dates for your Calendar

Week 3 Class Chapel Mass- 1/2R (9.15am Families Welcome but limited seating due to size of chapel)

Tuesday 20th August- First Holy Communion Retreat

Sunday 25th August- First Holy Communion

Friday 30th August- Father's Day celebration 

The Sudsy Challenge is on again! We're not changing our clothes for three days to help change the lives of people experiencing homelessness. This August, we'll be taking on The Sudsy Challenge to raise funds and awareness for Orange Sky - an organisation providing access to free laundry, warm showers and genuine conversation. 

We will be holding our St Pat's Sudsy Challenge from August 28th-30th. Orange Sky now has childrens sized shirts available for when you reach your first fundraising milestone. 

If you would like to join the ‘St Pat’s Sudsy Challengers’ please click on the link below and sign up https://www.thesudsychallenge.com.au/join/stpatssudsychallengers

Our school sports carnival was held last Thursday. It was great to see so many students trying their best. Our winning house this year was Penola. Our age Champions for 2024 are:  

Junior Boy - Micah Wood 

Junior Girl - Mia Gowing

11 Yr Boy - Archie Sly

11Yr Girl - Isabella Clifton-Collins 

Senior Boy  - Aidan Green

Senior Girl - Arly Schrader

Congratulations to these students. Around 50 Children have made it to Regional level which is to be held in Bega next Thursday.

Helpers will be needed on this day to assist with the BBQ & Canteen. All children will benefit from the money raised so if you can spare a couple of hours please help out.

Thanks to Nate from 3DGT Guitars (145 Auckland St, Bega, 3dgtguitars.com.au) for helping us out with the loan of a speaker and microphone for announcements at the athletics carnival last week.