T4 W8 Newsletter 2023

From The Principal

As the academic year draws to a close, I take this opportunity to reflect on the many blessings and challenges that we have faced together as a Catholic school community. I am filled with immense gratitude for the dedication and commitment of our teaching staff, staff, parents, and students, who have worked tirelessly to create a vibrant and nurturing learning environment.

The past year has been marked by both triumphs and tribulations. We have navigated the ever-changing landscape of education, adapting to new technologies and pedagogical approaches while remaining steadfast in our commitment to providing a holistic education rooted in Catholic values. Throughout it all, we have faced challenges with resilience and determination, emerging stronger as a united community of faith and learning.

One of the most significant triumphs of this year has been the unwavering commitment of our teaching staff (teachers and TAs) to strive to provide quality instruction, even in the face of unprecedented challenges. They have embraced new technologies, adapted their teaching methods, and gone the extra mile to ensure that every student receives the support they need to succeed.

Our students, too, have demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability. They have embraced new learning opportunities and have shown unwavering dedication to their studies. Their perseverance and growth have been a source of inspiration to us all.

I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support of our parents and guardians, who have partnered with us in creating a supportive and nurturing learning environment for our students. They have volunteered their time, provided valuable feedback, and advocated for their children's success. Their involvement has been instrumental in our ability to navigate the challenges of the past year and emerge stronger.

As we look ahead to the new academic year, I am filled with optimism and excitement. We have a strong foundation in place, built on the dedication of our teachers, the resilience of our students, and the unwavering support of our parents. Together, we will continue to nurture the growth and development of our students, preparing them to become compassionate, responsible, and global citizens who are guided by the teachings of the Catholic faith.

Students will be challenged to reach their full potential, while also encouraged to thrive academically, spiritually, and personally.

As we leave this year and embrace embark on a new chapter, I am reminded of the words of St. Augustine, who said, "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page." Let us continue to journey together, exploring the vast expanse of knowledge and understanding, and inspiring our students to become lifelong learners and compassionate citizens of the world.

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for the blessings you have bestowed upon our school community.  We are especially grateful for the unwavering support that each member of our community has shown throughout the past year.  We ask that you bless our students with wisdom, creativity, and a strong moral compass. May they grow into leaders who make a positive impact on the world.  Amen.

Principal's Messages

THE SPIRIT OF ST ANNE AWARD  |  An Award That Embodies the Values of St Anne  |  The Spirit of St Anne Award is a prestigious recognition bestowed upon a select few students who exemplify the virtues of St Anne – love, service, and dedication – and embody the core values of our school. This award is not solely based on academic achievements but rather honours students who strive to consistently demonstrate their best efforts, exhibit initiative and leadership among their peers, and take pride in themselves and their school.

Presentation and Recognition:

Each year, one student from each class is carefully selected by the school's teaching staff to receive the prestigious Spirit of St Anne Award. The recipients are presented with a symbolic prize as a token of recognition for their exceptional qualities and contributions to the school community.

Exemplary Conduct and Upholding Values:

The Spirit of St Anne Award is not merely an academic accolade; it is a testament to a student's character and their commitment to upholding the core values of our school. Students who struggle to adhere to these values and consistently demonstrate behaviors that contradict the principles of St Anne – love, service, and dedication – will not be considered for this award.

A Beacon of Inspiration:

The Spirit of St Anne Award serves as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging students to strive for excellence in all aspects of their school life and beyond. It is a reminder that true success lies not only in academic achievements but also in the embodiment of strong character and a commitment to serving others.

Criteria:

• Shows respect for self and others
• Participates in liturgies and in the prayer life of the school
• Shows pride in uniform
• Works to the best of his/her ability
• Shows pride in our school
• Displays initiative and leadership with peers
• Is responsible
• Is polite and is a good ambassador for the school
• Is helpful to all in our community
• Is of service to others
• Teacher discretion is always at the heart of the decision as teachers are best situated to know individual student journeys and the obstacles they have overcome.

A HEARTFELT GRATITUDE FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE YEAR 6 CAMP  |  As echoes of laughter and the lingering scent of delicious meals fade from our memories, we pause to express our deepest gratitude to the extraordinary individuals who made our recent Year 6 camp an unforgettable experience.

From the very moment the wheels of our plane left the tarmac on takeoff, a sense of excitement and anticipation filled the air. This palpable enthusiasm was nurtured and sustained by the tireless efforts of our dedicated teachers, Miss Smith, and Mrs. Milne. Their unwavering commitment to creating a safe, engaging, and enriching environment for our young learners was evident in every aspect of the camp.

Special thanks too to Mrs Adams for some of the ground work done before and during camp; this was no easy task.

Our parent helpers, Mrs Kelli Musson and Mr Steve Galletly, played an equally pivotal role in the success of the camp. Their willingness to lend a hand, share their expertise, and infuse the atmosphere with their infectious enthusiasm was instrumental in creating a truly memorable experience for our Year 6 students.

To each and every individual who contributed to the success of the Year 6 camp, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Your dedication, creativity, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of our students have left an indelible mark on their hearts and minds. Thank you for making this camp an experience they will cherish for years to come.

Students Not Returning to St Anne's in 2024  |   If you have children at St Anne's in years Prep to Year 5 and know that your child will not be returning to St Anne's in 2024, can you please let myself or Kathy in the office know as soon as possible, so we can take this into account when planning classes and staffing for next year. 

Christmas Concert

Tuckshop

The St Anne's Tuckshop is open Thursday and Friday each week. Orders can be placed and paid for online via Flexischools or cash orders can be placed first thing in the morning in a brown paper bag with the student's name, class, first or second lunch and order clearly written on the outside. If you order Tuckshop for your child, please remember to still supply friut for fruit break for that day, as well as second lunch if you only order first lunch Tuckshop. 

If you can volunteer to help in the tuckshop please ring Debbie Nielsen on ph. 0417 128 428. 

COVID Requirements

Student Protection News

Across The Curriculum

We Value YOUR Feedback

I’d love curriculum based feedback please…. What would YOU like to learn or know more about?

For example…

• How to provide your child with prompts or questions when reading?
• Strategies teachers use during mathematics lessons?
  

Click on the link below to complete the google form. Thanks in advance for your feedback.

https://forms.gle/425GfQbCSCqmM25i6

Yours in learning,

Shona Gibson

Reading

At St Anne’s, the goal is for all students to show growth in reading. Nearly all students have demonstrated growth in some way. It has been fantastic to witness students trying their best, parent/carer reading at home and strong intervention reading groups in the form of MiniLit and MacqLit. 

During  assembly on Friday, some students will receive awards for:

- Reading Growth

- Achieving high results in PAT Reading

- Achieving high results in PAT Mathematics.

Thank you for your dedication and supporting your child in their learing.

The Good News

From the Assistant Principal: Religious Education

Erika Milne

Vinnies Christmas Appeal 

The Vinnies Christmas Appeal serves to bring joy to families and individuals who may need a little extra support. The Christmas Season for most, is often a time of celebrating with family and friends, sharing in the joy of giving and receiving presents, laughing over family traditions and silly season moments. However, for 2.2 million Australians, including families and 750,000 children, living below the poverty line, it can be a time when meeting even their most basic needs, like having food on the table, a place to call home, or keeping the lights on is a real struggle.

Each class will gather donated items in a basket and present them to St. Vincent De Paul at our annual giving mass on Thursday 30th November 2023. To uphold the dignity of those receiving the hampers, please ensure that all food items are not due to expire for another six months and are in date and in good condition.

Stellar Maris - Seafarers Shoe Boxes

It is that time of the year when Stellar Maris conducts their annual Christmas Shoebox Appeal. In past years students have assisted greatly in the appeal and we are hopeful that this can continue again this year. Year 4 and the Laudato Si' Club have kick-started this drive for us with 21 shoeboxes started.

We are calling for donations of small gifts (Eg: Small Address Book,  Toiletries -non aerosol, Fishing gear hooks, sinkers, fishing line reels, Playing Cards, Torch, Batteries, Souvenir biro/pens, Writing sets,  Socks and Handkerchiefs even samples of products or promotional items would be appreciated. These items will be placed in shoe boxes, wrapped and distributed to Seafarers. 

The life of a Seafarer can be a lonely one, especially at Christmas.  Thoughts of parents, wives, children, family and friends celebrating this most important time of year often cause the loneliness to be emphasised tenfold.  Whilst a small gift will not replace being with loved ones, it will show the Seafarers that we as a Catholic Community do care and that they are being thought of.

Finance News

Concession Card Discounts  |  If you have an existing concession card discount,  please be aware that discounts are not automatically applied to new enrolments.  Discounts are applied to each student upon individual application and there is a form that is required to be completed each time.

If you have an existing concession card registered at St Anne’s and have more than one student, please contact Sandra Adams to confirm that discounts have been applied to each student. 

Term 4 Fees  |  Term 4 fees are now overdue. If you have not paid your fees in full, and do not already have a payment plan in place, please contact our Finance Officer, Sandra Adams, to discuss options. 

Sports News

Parent Lounge Guide

Students Of The Week

Congratulations To Our Students Of The Week  |  Olivia T, Lachlan M, Isla M, Brayden G, Jasper H, Henry C, Year One, Nazarene B, Reuben F, Xochitl H, Katelyn B, Seth W, Axl B, Darci K, Bella R, Taysha M, Jemma M, Thomas B, Nait B, Memphis-Belle D, Zan'eisha M, Ellani K, Samson M, Montana W, Matilda W, Zane L, Indee M, Katelyn B, Summer K, Corey F, Eddie R

Year 4 Recycling

Waste Free Wednesday

General Information

St Anne's School Bags From Harlequin

Schoolzine App For Reading Newsletters

Community News