Dear Parents and Guardians,

This week we welcomed two new students to St Patrick's. Welcome Ethan and Nayot!

As we progress through to the end of the 2024 school year, we are keeping our focus on every child's learning growth and engagement at school. In recent weeks I’ve had several lovely conversations with parents at drop off and pick up and enjoy hearing about the children’s experiences of school and their positive connections with their teachers, all staff, and school in general.

In reflecting on some of these conversations I was reminded that how we speak about people in our children’s lives has lasting impact. The impact of our words significantly shapes their experiences. Therefore, how you speak about their teachers and school really influences their attitude towards learning and community. Speaking positively about school life not only reinforces your child's respect for their teachers and all school staff, but also strengthens their sense of belonging and pride in being part of our St Pat’s school community.

As adults we are modelling for our children all the time. Children are very sensitive to our words and actions, and they are finely attuned to our non-verbal cues too. Sometimes we are surprised how much our children have picked up from our cues, when we thought they weren’t listening. When we, as adults, speak with positivity, we can instil confidence and enthusiasm in our children. When we speak positively about school, they see school as a place of opportunity, friendship, and growth. Positive conversations about their teachers help them appreciate the dedication and effort put into their education, fostering a relationship built on mutual respect and admiration. This respect is crucial in creating a supportive and collaborative learning environment where all our children feel safe and valued.

What we say, and in fact sometimes what we don’t say, also plays a role in our contribution to the life of school. When parents, carers and families share positive stories and feedback, it nurtures a sense of unity and collective effort. Thank you for your partnership in continuing to build our St Patrick’s school community. We are partners in your children's education. By focusing on the good, we model the Christian values of love, understanding, and support, creating an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and connected.

Let us continue to build each other up with words that inspire and encourage. Our children look to us for guidance, and together, we are responsible for building our school community where positivity and faith are at the heart of everything we do. Thank you for being a member of our school family and for your continued support and dedication to fostering a nurturing and positive environment for all St Pat’s students.

When you are planning with your child the way in which they will show gratitude to their teacher/s for their 2024 year of learning, one nice way would be a personal thank you message written by your child.

Blessings,

Jo

1. High School Transition: Ensuring a Smooth Journey

As we approach the end of the school year, we want to ensure a smooth transition for our Year 6 students moving on to high school. A consent form to share your child’s academic and school-related information with their new school was sent home this week. This information is crucial for supporting your child’s transition and ensuring that their new teachers are well-informed. Please complete and return the consent form at your earliest convenience. Your cooperation helps us work together to provide the best possible support for your child's educational journey.

Upcoming Transition Dates

Wednesday 20th November Lumen Christi Orientation Day

Thursday 5th December Bega High School Orientation Day

2. Adjusted Reports for Students with Personalised Plans

Students who have a Personalised Plan may receive an adjusted report in Semester 2. These adjusted reports are tailored to reflect the specific goals and adjustments outlined in their Personalised Plans. The focus is on highlighting the progress and achievements made toward their personalised goals, providing a more accurate picture of their growth and development. We believe this approach acknowledges the unique efforts and successes of each student, ensuring that their individual needs and progress are recognised.

If you would like to know more about levels of adjustments you can read the overview from the NCCD: https://www.nccd.edu.au/sites/default/files/h5p/content/167/docs/endorsed_levels_of_adjustment.pdf 

3. The Power of "No": Supporting Parents with Strategies

Parenting can be challenging, especially when it comes to setting boundaries. Remember, saying "no" to your children is an important part of helping them understand limits and develop self-discipline. It’s okay to stand firm on your decisions. Here are some strategies for those moments when you feel like giving in:

• Stay Calm and Consistent: Maintain a calm demeanour and be consistent with your rules.

• Provide Explanations: Explain your reasons for saying no, helping children understand the importance of boundaries.

• Offer Alternatives: Suggest other acceptable options to redirect their attention.

• Stick to Your Decisions: Once you’ve made a decision, stick to it to reinforce the boundaries you’ve set.

Setting limits with love and consistency helps children learn and grow. By standing firm, you’re providing them with valuable lessons that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Let's work together to ensure the best outcomes for our students.

Emma Grant

Dates for your calendar

Week 5 Chapel Mass, Friday 9:15am- 1/2 Red (Families welcome, though limited seating available in the chapel)

Friday 13th December 9:15am- Giving Mass

Tuesday 17th December (Time TBC)- Graduation Mass

Year 5 Leadership Retreat

Today, students in Year 5 participated in their Leadership Retreat at Tathra Church. The day was facilitated by Luke from CE and involved many engaging activities. Students thoroughly enjoyed the day and the time spent together as upcoming Year 6 leaders of St Pats. 

Mel Ferris

Thank you to the families who have paid their Term 4 school fees. 
 
Term 4 fees are due today, 8 November 2024, except for those with approved payment plans in place.
 
Please contact the Office Manager, Cathy Smith on cathy.smith@cg.catholic.edu.au, if you would like to set up a weekly, fortnightly or monthly payment plan for your school fees.
 
If at any time your family is experiencing financial hardship, or if your family is in need of other support, please contact the school to organise an appointment for a confidential meeting with our Principal, Jo Scott-Pegum to discuss how the school can help support your family. Please remember that if we don’t know your circumstances, we are not in a position to provide assistance. Applications for fee concessions are managed by the Principal in a confidential and sensitive manner.

Autism – what is it?

Just as with ADHD, our understanding of Autism has changed in recent years.

The following fact sheet, which gives a broad explanation of what Autism is, was taken from: https://www.aspect.org.au/about-autism/fact-sheets

If you have questions about Autism and want to understand more, or want to know about services and support available, you can contact Autism Connect: https://www.amaze.org.au/autismconnect/

Their helpline is free and confidential and is available 8am-7pm Monday to Friday. 1300 308 699

There is also a Live Chat option as well as email: email info@autismconnect.org.au

Autism Connect is for everyone: It supports Autistic people, their families and carers, health professionals, researchers, teachers, employers and the broader community. Autism Connect can help with providing information in regards to support and assessment options available.