2024-11 Newsletter - Term 3 Week 1

From the Principal

Dear Parents and Carers,
Welcome back to Term 3! I hope you all had a restful and rejuvenating break. It is with great joy and enthusiasm that we step into this new term, ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
Our Catholic values continue to be at the heart of our school community, guiding us in our mission to provide a nurturing and supportive environment for all our students. This term, we remain committed to fostering a spirit of faith, hope, and love in every aspect of school life.
As we begin Term 3, let us remember the words of St. Paul in his letter to the Philippians: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). With this in mind, let us support one another, work together, and strive for excellence in all we do.
There are many exciting events and activities planned for this term. I encourage you to stay engaged and involved in our school community. Your participation and support are vital to the success of our programs and initiatives.
Thank you for your ongoing support and dedication to our school. Let us make Term 3 a period of growth, learning, and spiritual enrichment for all.

In faith and truth 
Simone Taylor 

Reflection

Reflecting on NAIDOC Week 2024: "Keep the Fire Burning"

As we embark on NAIDOC Week 2024, our school community joins in the national celebration of the histories, cultures, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year’s theme, "Keep the Fire Burning," invites us to reflect on the enduring strength, resilience, and wisdom of Indigenous cultures and traditions.

The Significance of Fire

Fire holds deep spiritual, cultural, and practical significance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It symbolises life, knowledge, and renewal. The act of keeping the fire burning is a powerful metaphor for preserving and passing down cultural heritage, stories, and traditions through generations.

Our Journey of Reconciliation

In our Catholic tradition, we are called to walk the path of reconciliation, justice, and love. NAIDOC Week provides us with a profound opportunity to deepen our understanding and respect for the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous Australians. It is a time to listen, learn, and engage in meaningful dialogue and actions that promote unity and healing.

Activities and Reflections

This week, our students have engaged in a variety of activities that celebrate and honor Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. These included cultural workshops, storytelling sessions, art projects, and our whole school Liturgy. These activities  were designed to foster a deeper connection and appreciation for the traditions and contributions of Indigenous peoples.

A Call to Action

Let us take this opportunity to reflect on how we can contribute to keeping the fire of culture, knowledge, and justice burning brightly within our community. By embracing the values of respect, inclusivity, and solidarity, we can help ensure that the heritage and voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are celebrated and cherished.

Heavenly Father, We thank you for the rich cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. As we reflect on the theme "Keep the Fire Burning," inspire us to preserve and honour their stories, traditions, and wisdom. Guide us in our journey of reconciliation, and may we always strive to build a community grounded in love, respect, and justice.

Amen

Important Dates for Year 6 Confirmation

* Wednesday 31st July - Reconciliation -  with Fr Reynold after Weekly 5/6 Mass on the Holy Spirit

* Sunday 4th August 8am - Enrolment Mass - St Vincent's Church Portland

* Thursday 8th August 4pm - Confirmation Practice with sponsors at  St Vincent's Church Portland

* Sunday 11th August 8am - Confirmation with Bishop Michael McKenna at St Vincent's Church Portland. This will be followed by the cutting of the Confirmation cake and some light refreshments in the school Art Room. 

Welcome CSU Prac Student

This week we welcomed Miss Olivia MacDonald for Charles Sturt University to St Joseph's Portland. Miss MacDonald will join us each Wednesday for her Observation Practicuum working in the K/1/2 classroom. The students are excited to have a university student joining us this term. 

Parent/Teacher Interviews Rescheduled

A reminder that all Parent/Teacher Interviews have been rescheduled to Week Three this Term -  Tuesday 6th and Wednesday 7th August. The days and times for these interviews remain the same as the information sent out with School Reports last term. Please contact the school office if you require any further clarification. 

Pupil Free Day - 16th August 2024

Don't forget to note in your diary that Friday 16th August (Week 4 of Term 3) is a Pupil Free Day. As such there will be no supervision at school on this day.

Thank you...

Last term, our students and staff had the pleasure of attending a delightful performance of "Mary Poppins" at LHS. The excursion was a wonderful experience, filled with laughter and learning, as the magical world of Mary Poppins came to life on stage.

We are incredibly grateful to Wallerawang Recreation and Sports Club for their kind generosity in providing buses for our trip. Their support significantly reduced the cost of travel, making this memorable experience accessible for all our students.

A special thank you goes to Rohan Kearns for driving the larger bus. Your assistance and dedication ensured a smooth and enjoyable journey for everyone involved.

Thank you to all who made this excursion possible. Your contributions helped create lasting memories for our students and staff.

NAIDOC Celebrations at St Joseph's - Wandana

We were fortunate to have Brian and Gabby from  Wandana visit our school on Monday, providing us with enriching cultural experiences that deepened our understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal culture. The workshops and activities led by Gabby were both educational and inspiring, offering students hands-on opportunities to engage with traditional arts, crafts, music, and storytelling.

Embracing Cultural Heritage

Through Wandana's teachings, students learned about the significance of fire in Aboriginal culture as a symbol of life, knowledge, and renewal. They experienced the beauty of traditional songs and dances, created stunning artworks inspired by Indigenous symbols, and listened to stories passed down through generations. These activities not only enriched their knowledge but also fostered a sense of respect and admiration for the resilience and wisdom of Indigenous cultures.

Wandana

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Wiradjuri Language Certificate I in Aboriginal Languages for everyday use Lithgow and Bathurst

 How to get involved: Certificate I in Aboriginal Languages for everyday use will be delivered across 18 weeks and is aimed at Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people as well as non-Aboriginal people. Expression of Interest are now being gathered for those who have an interest in Aboriginal Languages and/or are currently working with Aboriginal people and communities.

 Semester 2, 2024

TAFE BATHURST CAMPUS

Face to Face

Start Date: 31/07/2024 to 6/12/2024

Day: Wednesday evening

Time: 4:00-7:00pm

Enrolment link:

https://online-enrolments.oneebs.tafensw.edu.au/.../11770404

TAFE LITHGOW CAMPUS

Face to Face

Start Date: 30/07/2024 to 6/12/2024

Time: 4:00 - 7:00pm

Study commitment 10 Hours per week

Enrolment Link:

https://online-enrolments.oneebs.tafensw.edu.au/.../11773106

Contact:

Lisa Crawford Aboriginal Education and Engagement Coordinator LISA.JEAN.CRAWFORD@tafensw.edu.au P: 0400 357 318

Kellie Lane Educational Support Officer Kellie.Lane7@tafensw.edu.au P: 02 7921 4294