Dear Parents and Carers,

Today we announced the school leaders for 2025. Congratulations to the following students, we know you are going to do a great job!

Congratulations to Mr Forbes and Mrs Collins on graduating with Certificate IV in Educaiton Support!

Right now you might be in planning mode for the school holidays that are fast approaching. As parents and teachers we know the important role that social development has in our children's lives. Social skills are foundational to their overall well-being and success, both in and out of the classroom. One of the most effective ways to foster these skills is through play. As we know, play is not just a leisure activity; it is a vital part of learning that helps children develop communication, cooperation, and problem-solving abilities. At school we are always monitoring playtime and looking for ways to provide a variety of opportunities for growing social skills.

Making connection is at the centre of social development. Encouraging children to build meaningful relationships with their classmates through play dates and group activities can significantly enhance their social skills. These interactions provide opportunities for children to practice empathy, share experiences, and learn to navigate social dynamics. As parents, facilitating regular play dates can help your child form strong, supportive friendships that contribute to their emotional and social growth.

Outdoor play is another essential aspect of social development. Time spent outdoors allows children to engage in physical activities that promote teamwork and collaboration. It also provides a natural setting for imaginative play, where children can explore, create, and interact with their environment and each other. Encouraging your child to spend time outside not only benefits their physical health but also enriches their social experiences.

In today's digital age, it is equally important to balance screen time with screen down time. While technology can offer educational benefits, excessive screen time can hinder social interactions and physical activity. Setting boundaries around screen use and encouraging alternative activities, such as reading, playing sports, or engaging in creative hobbies, can help children develop a healthy relationship with technology and enhance their social skills.

As we move forward, let us continue to prioritize the social development of our children. By fostering play, connection, outdoor activities, and mindful screen use, we can support our students in becoming well-rounded individuals who are capable of forming meaningful relationships and thriving in diverse social settings.

Have fun planning with your child some opportunities for connection with classmates and friends after school, on weekends and in the holidays.

Blessings,

Jo

This week, we celebrated remarkable progress and achievement in English and Maths with our Gold and Silver Awards! Students have shown exceptional dedication and hard work, earning well-deserved recognition. Congratulations to all our awardees for their outstanding efforts! 

This week, we had the pleasure of honouring our incredible volunteers with a special morning tea. Our volunteers play a vital role in our school community, dedicating their time and energy to support our students and staff.

We are immensely grateful for everything our volunteers do. Their contributions make a significant difference, and we are proud to celebrate their efforts. Thank you to all our volunteers for your dedication and generosity. 

Here are just two of the many volunteers we are thankful for. 

Emma Grant

Future Dates for your Calendar

Tuesday 17th December 6:00pm- Graduation Mass (Families arrive at 5:45pm)

Tuesday 24th December- Christmas Eve Mass 6pm (Everyone Welcome). Carols from 5:30pm

Dates for Sacrament of Confirmation 2025

Parent Information night- Wednesday 26th Feb, 6:00pm

Family Mass- Sunday 4th May, 9:30am

Retreat- Friday 6th June, 9:15-2:30pm

Confirmaion- Sunday 8th June, 9:30am

Please contact Bega Parish for enrolment details

Vinnies Christmas Appeal

A big thankyou to the St Pat's community for your generosity in helping us fill hampers to donate to St Vincent De Paul this Christmas. 

Thankyou to Woolworths Bega and Woolworths Merimbula for your generous donations of items for the hampers. 

Christmas Trivia

This week, at assembly each morning, we have been presenting all of the students with a trivia question. Students then see Mrs Ferris with the correct answer for the opportunity to go into a draw for a small prize. How well do you think you would do at our St Pat's trivia? The questions so far include;

* Where does the word 'Christmas' come from?

* What was the name of the Angel who appeared to Mary?

* What was the name of the town that Jesus was born in?

* What was Jesus placed in after he was born?

* Who were some of the people who came to visit baby Jesus and what 3 gifts did they bring?

* How did the wise men know that Jesus had been born?

* Why were Mary and Joseph travelling to Bethlehem?

Learning at St Pat's

I was excited to visit 1/2Green for a Rainbow card today, where I was able to see their fantastic independent learning skills. 

Mel Ferris