8 March 2024

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Happy International Women’s Day to all of the wonderful women in our school and wider community.

Today, Mrs Fletcher and several Year 4 students presented the Good Citizen award to Mieke Appledoorn. Meike’s peers told her that she is kind, helpful, happy and friendly. Well done Meike!

Congratulations to our “super-fish”, Max Herbert! Read all about his amazing achievements further down in the newsletter.

We’d love to see you if you can join us for the Andrew Chinn concert on Monday afternoon at 1.20pm. 

Warm Regards,

Liz

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Monday 11th - Andrew Chinn Whole School Concert - 1:20pm- All welcome!
• Tuesday 12th-13th March - School Photos
• Sunday 24th March - Save the Date - Bunnings Easter Raffle and Cake Stall
• Tuesday 19th March - Retreat for First Communion candidates
• Wednesday 20th March - Years 1 & 2 Breakfast
• Wednesday 27th March - Years 3 & 4 Breakfast 
• Wednesday 27th March - Cross Country (Please note change of date)
• Thursday 29th March - Holy Thursday
• Friday 29th March - Good Friday
• Monday 1st April - Easter Monday
• Tuesday 2nd April - Easter Hat Parade
• Wednesday 3rd April - Years 5 & 6 Breakfast
• Saturday 6th April- First Eucharist (Holy Communion) - 9am
• Monday 7th April-12th April - Catholic Education Week
• Monday 8th April - 12th April - Australian Dental Health Visit
• Monday 8th April - Year 3 Learning Showcase, 2pm
• Monday 8th April - Hot Dog Day in the canteen
• Tuesday 9th April - Years 4 & 1 Learning Showcase, 2pm
• Tuesday 9th April - Zone Cross Country, Grafton
• Wednesday 10th April - Years 6 & Kindergarten Learning Showcase, 2pm
• Wednesday 10th April - final AXIOS youth group meeting for Term 1
• Thursday 11th April - Years 5 & 2 Learning Showcase, 2pm
  

WHAT'S THE BUZZ?

Socks 

Apologies for the ‘sock surprise’ in last week’s newsletter!

Children may wear green socks or white socks on their sports day for the remainder of 2024.

From the beginning of 2025, white socks on sports days will become part of our school uniform policy.

Easter Hat Parade - Save the Date

Because Easter is held during the school term this year, we are able to commemorate the events of Holy Week in the week leading up to Easter and celebrate the joy of Easter during the following week -Easter Week. 

Therefore, we will be holding our Easter Hat Parade  on Tuesday 2nd April at 8:45am.  Children are invited to create  or decorate a hat. This can be as simple or fancy as you like!

Everyone is welcome to come and join in the fun.

School Attendance Matters

Regular attendance at school for every student is essential if students are to achieve their potential, and increase their career and life options. Student non-attendance at school places the student’s learning, social and emotional growth at risk.

Schools, in partnerships with families, are responsible for promoting the regular attendance of students and for ensuring that non-attendance is addressed effectively. At Mary Help of Christians, we actively monitor student attendance and identify early any signs when students are reluctant to attend school.

School Photos

School photos will be taken on the following days. Children wear their full school uniform (not sport uniform) on their allocated day.

Tuesday 12th March

• Year 3
• Kindergarten
• Year 5
• MHOC Mob
• Sibling Photos

Wednesday 13th March

• Year 1
• Year 2
• Year 4
• Year 6

You will have received an order form via Compass.
Please contact the school office if you have any questions.

Class Breakfasts 

Class breakfasts will be held from 7:30am - 8:30am. Come along and meet the teachers and other parents in your child's grade.

Order now on Flexischools!

Wednesday - 20th March - Year 1 & 2

Wednesday  27th March - Year 3 & 4

Wednesday  - 3rd April - Year 5 & 6

Safe on Socials - XBox Parental Controls

Xbox Family is a suite of tools and features designed to help parents manage their child’s Xbox experience, including setting up parental controls, tracking usage and activity, and managing purchases and subscriptions. With Xbox Family, parents can create a safe and secure gaming environment for their child and ensure that they are enjoying their Xbox experience responsibly

LOVING LEARNING

Seesaw

All classes will launch Seesaw student accounts in the coming weeks. Seesaw is an individual online student portfolio. Families can connect to their child's Seesaw journal via their phone, tablet or computer to see their child’s work, allowing them to have a discussion with their child about what he/she has been learning. 

MHOC families will connect to Seesaw using an individual student QR code that will be sent home to families next week. Watch out for the Compass notification and a hard-copy note in your child’s bag. 

NAPLAN

Over the next two weeks, our students in Year 3 and Year 5 will take part in NAPLAN. Here is a little background information for parents and carers.

Why do students do NAPLAN?

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a literacy and numeracy assessment that students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 sit each year. It is the only national assessment all Australian students undertake.

NAPLAN assesses the literacy and numeracy skills that students are learning through the school curriculum and allows parents/carers to see how their child is progressing against national standards.

NAPLAN is just one aspect of a school’s assessment and reporting process. It does not replace ongoing assessments made by teachers about student performance, but it can provide teachers with additional information about students’ educational progress.

Your child will do the NAPLAN tests online

Online NAPLAN tests provide more precise results and are engaging for students. The tests are tailored (or adaptive), which means that each test presents questions that may be more or less difficult depending on a student’s responses. This helps students remain engaged with the assessment. 

All Year 3 students will continue to complete the writing assessment on paper.

What does NAPLAN assess?

NAPLAN assesses literacy and numeracy skills that students are learning through their regular school curriculum.

Students sit assessments in writing, reading, conventions of language (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and numeracy. The questions assess content linked to the Australian Curriculum: English and Mathematics.

What can I do to support my child?

You can support your child by reassuring them that NAPLAN is just one small part of their school program and reminding them to simply do their best. 

If you’d like to read more, you can access NAPLAN Information for Parents and Carers by clicking on this link

Year 4

📚 **Exploring Perspectives in Year 4: The Thing About Oliver Adaptation!** 📚

In Year 4, our young storytellers have embarked on an exciting literary journey with the captivating book, 'The Thing About Oliver.' As part of their learning adventure, students are delving into the world of narrative adaptation. 

Our creative minds are putting on their writing hats to reimagine the story from a different angle. Instead of Tilly's viewpoint, the students are now stepping into Oliver's shoes- Tilly's younger brother who often makes Tilly's life quite challenging. This offers a fresh perspective on the events from the book.

We are thrilled to share that our budding authors have risen to the occasion, crafting narratives that breathe life into Oliver's experiences. Their ability to empathise and understand a character's emotions is truly commendable.

One day Mum took us to the pool. Tilly went to her lesson and I went to my first swimming lesson with this guy called Patrick. We went to the little pool, started to lie on our bellies and lifted one arm at a time. It was so much fun! Patrick grabbed my leg and as my feet hit the water it made a mountain of white water.  Max

I am so loud that I sound like a lion. I look around and find Tilly. She is so fast that she looks like she is as fast as a cheetah! I am so happy for her. She is swimming like it is a piece of cake.  Jack P

It is very hot today. I got car sick during the long car drive. We have now stopped outside a strange, old looking house. Mum and Tilly hop out of the car. I feel like they are forgetting me so I let out a little squeal. Mum hears me and comes around to help me out. When I get out in front of the car I see a strange lady running out of the house.   Jessica M 

A scary woman walks into the room. “I have to get away from this woman!” I say to myself. So I run around smashing and throwing things. She tries to catch me. I dodge her. She grabbed me but I get out of her grip. I run into Tilly’s room. I find books. I smash and rip the books.  Ry

I walk in and my eyes light up. It’s the GARBAGE TRUCK! Tilly and I watch as it empties our rubbish. I dance around and I go to the sink. Tilly turns on the tap and somehow we start playing in the cold water.  Cleo

Year 4 Teachers

FROM THE MISSION DESK

The purpose of Lent is to provide an opportunity for individuals to grow closer to God and to become more mindful of their spiritual lives. It is a time for self-examination, for reflecting on one’s shortcomings and for making amends for past wrongs. By giving up something that is important to us, we are reminded of the sacrifice that Jesus made for us, and we become more aware of our own dependence on God.

Although Lent began three weeks ago, it is not too late for you to join our school community in making a greater act of prayer, charity or self-denial as a way of coming closer to God and to others.

School Concert

Australian religious songwriter and singer, Andrew Chinn, will be visiting our school next Monday to share his songs with our children. Andrew’s songs, such as “These Hands”, “Rainbow”, “An African Blessing” and “Rise Up!” are used in  classrooms and liturgies around Australia, New Zealand, USA and Canada. Parents are invited to the whole school concert On Monday 11th March in the school hall, at 1.20pm. We look forward to seeing you there!

Incitare Retreat

On Tuesday, some of our Year Six students participated in a one-day Incitare Retreat. The children were encouraged to celebrate their faith and be courageous in their efforts to live Christian lives. The students particularly enjoyed meeting like-minded peers from the diocese to celebrate and share their faith journeys together. We look forward to them sharing their experiences with Stage 3.

Student reflections - 

Chloe - “I loved discussing my faith with my group. It was also really great to meet students from other Catholic schools”.

Violet -  “I had a great day. We played some fun games and I particularly enjoyed taking part in the Liturgy at the end of the day with all of the other schools”.

Sage - “I liked learning new songs and praying to God. I met new people and loved the games”.

Mosa-“I really liked writing my own prayers. I felt connected to God”.

Josephine- “I liked being able to reflect on my relationship with God. I also enjoyed helping set up the prayer table for the Liturgy".

Year 2 Class Mass and Morning Tea

Year Two celebrated Mass on Tuesday. Fr Joy explained to the children the importance of forgiveness. He told the children that forgiveness is important because it helps us feel happier and lighter inside. When we forgive others, it makes our friendships stronger and helps us get along better with our mates. Most importantly, Jesus taught us to forgive others, just as God forgives us when we make mistakes, helping us grow closer to God and each other. The students sang beautifully and enjoyed a delicious morning tea together.

What’s been happening in Religious Education in Year Six?

Last week in Year 6, we had the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session via Zoom with some wonderful representatives from Caritas. The session presented the story of Ronita, one of the focus stories for Project Compassion this year. After the birth of her children, 22-year-old Ronita was at risk of having to leave school permanently. But with the support of Caritas Australia’s partners in the Philippines, she resumed her studies and now has a job to support her family. It was great for the students to see the ways in which they are able to help through supporting Project Compassion. 

This week, the students will be designing posters using Canva to display around the school to promote Project Compassion and encourage the staff and students at Mary Help of Christians to make a difference in the lives of people like Ronita.

Mini Vinnies - Ice Cup Sale

Our Mini Vinnies have been working closely with Mrs Martin and Mrs Biddle, mapping out their major fundraisers for the year. This term we will be kicking off with delicious ice cups! All money raised will go to Pete’s Place.

Peer Groups and Paper Chains!

What fun we had in peer groups today. Each group participated in a paper chain making competition. It was wonderful to see students brainstorming and supporting each other and of course laughing together!

Term 1 Class Masses 

All parents are welcome to attend our weekly Tuesday Mass and morning tea at 9:30am. These class Masses are held at MHOC Church Sawtell. Please see the timetable below for Term One. 

Tuesday 12th March - Year 1

Tuesday 19th March - Year 4 (Eucharist Retreat)

Tuesday 26th March - Year 5

Tuesday 2nd April - Year 3

Tuesday 9th April - Kinder & Year 6

SENSEI'S CORNER

Year 1

Year 1 were allowed to have time to colour-in on the iPads after reviewing the Japanese colours. 

Aka = red, Midori = green, Pinku = pink and  

Kindergarten - Marching

In the Thursday lunchtime  Japanese club, Year 3-6 were able to make a Japanese origami bookmark of a beautiful lady wearing a kimono. These lovely students said they made them for their siblings.

MHOC PARENT FORUM

MHOC- Bunnings Easter raffle and cake stall

The PSF is holding an Easter raffle and cake stall on Sunday 24th March at Bunnings. We hope you can join the fun!

We will be looking for some volunteers to join us in selling raffle tickets and baked goodies on the day. The stall will run from 8:30am until about 2pm (or until we sell out).

We are also in need of donations of cupcakes, biscuits/ cookies and slices (to be delivered to the stall at Bunnings) for sale on the day.

If you are able to assist with either selling and/or baking please fill in this form. We would really appreciate your support to help make this a success!

Council of Catholic School Parents

Summer Family Games Night

The Summer Family Games Night is now full.  If you would like to go on a waitlist, please contact the school office.

Bingo

The rostered teams for the next few weeks' Bingo are:

• Thursday 14th March - team no. 1 (Gemma's team)
• Thursday 21st March - team no. 2 (Kelly's team)
• Thursday 28th March - team no. 3 (Catherine's team)

SPORT NEWS

Dio Swimming

Our little fish were off and racing last Friday at the Diocesan Swimming Carnival in Macksville. This carnival boasts some tough competition but we were up for the challenge! Most of our swimmers swam excellent times with some PB swims in the mix. 

In huge news, our very own Super Fish Max Herbert was awarded Diocesan Age Champion after swimming in almost every event and making it through to Polding in freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, individual medley & freestyle relay! Such amazing results! He just keeps blowing us away! Congratulations Max!

The Polding carnival will be hosted in Week 10 and we will have a number of swimmers in attendance. Congratulations to the following students for making it this far. Amazing! 

• Max Herbert - freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, individual medley, freestyle relay
• Ned Rapley - freestyle
• Sophie Laurie - freestyle
• Gabrielle Laurie - freestyle
• Jnr Boys relay - Ned Rapley, Lachlan Herbert, Max Herbert, Xavier Furey

Winter Sports Trials

Diocesan trials were held this week in hockey, netball, football and rugby league. Feedback received from the day was that our students “played and interacted well with all teams and showed beautiful sportsmanship.” Well done to our fine school ambassadors!

Clarence Zone trials will be held this Monday 11th March in rugby union. Good luck to:

Lucas Townsend, Kaidan Doust and Leo Salter

Cross Country

Our Cross Country course is in the beginning stages of being marked out. Children have been working on cardio fitness with Mrs Burridge in PE lessons and are up for the challenge. I hope we have some (preferably slow) parents who are also up for the challenge because I know of a fair few teachers who are ready to show them up! 

***Please note the change of date to Wednesday 27th March.

Athletics training

Coaching for athletics has been locked in for early next term. Teachers will engage in Professional Learning during staff meetings this term to upskill in this area and students from Years  3-6 will undertake a 4-week athletics crash course to hone their skills in shot put, long jump, relays and running technique. We can’t wait to see the results!

HABITS OF MINDS AWARDS

Term 1, Week 6

CANTEEN NEWS

What's Cooking in the Canteen?

Canteen Roster

Parent and grandparent volunteers are always needed and welcome. Please phone the school or complete this form if you can spare some time in the canteen.

Monday 11th Mar
Kath Rallings

Tuesday 12th Mar
Hannah McDonald

Wednesday 13th Mar
Hannah McDonald

Thursday 14th Mar
Carrie Paine

Friday 15th Mar
Rachel Pryce
Nichole Brookes

LIBRARY WHISPERS

MHOC provides the opportunity for our families to order from Scholastic Book Club once a term. Scholastic Book Club catalogues went home this week but if your child didn’t receive a catalogue for some reason and you’d like to have a look, go to the Scholastic Book Club website and you can view it online  https://scholastic.com.au/book-club/book-club-parents/ . Don’t forget you can order and pay online too - books will still come to the library and I’ll deliver them to each child. If you don’t wish to pay online, you can fill in the paper form and hand it and the correct money into the office.

OSHC

How are we more than half way through Term 1 already??

I’ve said this before but the Terms go very fast especially Term 1 after welcoming so many new faces. We are looking forward to seeing what Vacation Care has in store for us and the exciting adventures we will experience!

This week’s program theme is “Rainbows” and the activities have been a hit this week! The program favourites have been loom band making, easel painting, group soccer games, bean bag toss and mask decorating.

NEWS FROM OUR PARISH

Eucharist Preparation

It was wonderful to have the children preparing for their First Holy Communion, present at church last weekend to be presented to the parish and receive a blessing. Unfortunately some families were not able to attend. There is a final opportunity this weekend during the 7:30am Mass. Hope to see you there.

Some more fun and games for the group and some time getting to know a bit more about each other.

Baptism

The Sacrament of Baptism is available to those requesting it. Please ring Jennifer at the Parish Office (66583544) or talk to Amber Biddle, Liz Watts or Margaret Ryan at school if you have any questions.  Alternatively, if you wish to register for Baptism, there is now the option of an  online request form .

Parish Website , E-bulletin & Facebook Page

For all the latest news from our parish, check out the Parish website or subscribe to our  new e-bulletin which can be sent directly to your inbox each week. Why not sign up today by entering your details in the sign up box on the Homepage or Contact page of the website!

And don’t forget to check out our FaceBook page

COMMUNITY NEWS