Newsletter Term 2 Week 5 (31.5.24)

Message from the Assistant Principal -Julianne Barlogio

Parents and Guardians,

I hope this message finds you well. As we busily prepare for our much-anticipated Choral Speaking Event, I wanted to share a few important updates and reminders with you.

Choral Speaking Event

We are excited to announce that our Choral Speaking Event will be held at the Tweed Heads Civic Centre Auditorium. This event is a wonderful opportunity for students to enjoy the ultimate team experience. Choral speaking allows everyone to participate in the interpretation of poetry, fostering a spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility for the group's success. This inclusive activity is perfect for all students as it helps them engage without self-consciousness. The doors open at 8.30am and tickets are purchased at the door.

Event Timetable:

Pick-Up Line Etiquette

We kindly remind all parents to practise common courtesy in the pick-up line. When vehicles are parked along the roadside on Boomerang Street, please join the queue rather than overtaking other cars to cut the line. To ease congestion, we suggest arriving at 3:10 PM, after the initial rush has subsided. Your cooperation helps ensure the safety and smooth operation of our pick-up procedures.

BWS Proposal on Pearl Street

We wish to inform you that the BWS application for 11 Pearl Street has progressed to the next stage. The school will be formally objecting to this proposal as we believe the location, directly opposite our school, is inconsistent with local community values and expectations. If you wish to object, the deadline is June 21st. While individual responses are more impactful, we are also open to raising a petition if there is enough interest.

To review the application documents and submit your objections, please visit: BWS Application Documents https://lngnoticeboard.onegov.nsw.gov.au/searchresult/details/APP-0012941009.

Thank you for your continued support and attention to these matters. We look forward to seeing you at the Choral Speaking Event and appreciate your cooperation in the pick-up line.

Warm regards,

Julianne

Important Dates & School Information

Term 2 2024

Saturday, 1st June to 2nd June - First Communion Weekend

Thursday, 6th June - Thoughtful Parenting: 12.30 to 3.00 pm

Monday, 10th June - Public Holiday - No School 

Wednesday, 12th June - Verse Speaking Years 1 & 2: 9.30am to 10.30am

Wednesday, 12th June - Verse Speaking Years 5 & 6: 11 am to 12 pm

Thursday, 13th June - St Anthony's Day - WHOLE SCHOOL MASS

Thursday, 13th June - Verse Speaking Kindergarten: 9.30 am to 10.30 am

Thursday, 13th June - Verse Speaking Year 3 & 4: 10.30 am to 11.30 am

Sunday, 16th June - School MASS - First Communion

Tuesday, 18th June - Athletics Carnival

Sunday, 23rd June - Parish Mass and First Communion

Monday, 24th June - MSP School Photo Day

Child Protection Policy can be found on our School Website under Information/School Policies: St Anthony's Primary School Website or in the following link: https://www.kngplism.catholic.edu.au/policies

Something to think and pray about

Bad times are not evidence that God is punishing me

In Jesus’ day there was a common belief that whatever misfortunes people experienced were a punishment for sin.  The more a person suffered, the greater his or her sin must have been! Jesus rejected this simplistic notion. Instead, he emphasised repentance, which means a turning towards God and toward one’s neighbour. As always, Jesus tells us not only to look outward, but also to look in; he is concerned with what is going on in our heads and in our hearts. He wants us to ask ourselves how God is opening us to compassion, prompting us to repentance, and leading us to life.

Excerpted from Sacred Space: A Little Book of Encouragement edited by Vinita Hampton Wright (p. 136)

We Remember At This Time…

We think of all those involved in and affected by the conflict in the Middle East and pray that the Spirit of Peace would reign there, touching each and every heart, and bring about love, unity and peace in a deep and lasting way. Lord, come and heal all nations and heal all your wounded people. Amen.

https://sacredspace.com/

Message from Assistant Principal - Mission - Gemma Ballantine

Staff Proclaim

This week all people who work in Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Lismore attended Staff Proclaim. St Anthony’s staff joined with schools in the Tweed Region on Tuesday. The 2024 Staff Proclaim theme is ‘Hope for the future’. Bishop Greg started the day talking about the fact that we, as Catholic Educators, do not find ourselves working in our Catholic schools accidentally, rather we are purposely and deliberately called and chosen by God.

“...Hope is dependent on one very single thing and, for me, it’s the belief that you are not employed by me, fundamentally, but you’re here because you were chosen by God.” 

-Bishop Gregory Homeming, OCD

It was a deeply moving and inspiring day, where we explored the need for connection and friendship to nurture faith. We also explored the concept of who we are as ‘the Church’. We need to see the Church beyond the building, bricks and mortar. We are the Church, the people of God interwoven with each other. We need to access the living, enduring presence of God through prayer, friendship and participation in the Eucharist. What do we do then? Go out! Reach the marginalised and the unloved, being the loving, non-judgemental face of Christ to others.

First Communion Masses

This weekend a large number of St Anthony’s children will receive their First Communion. First Communion is the sacrament that completes the process of initiation and is when one can fully participate in the Eucharist by receiving Holy Communion.

Eucharist is unique among the sacraments as it is at the heart of our faith. For Catholics, the Eucharist, or Mass, is the most powerful way we encounter the real presence of Jesus Christ. Eucharist is a Greek word that means “thanksgiving” and is the whole ritual that has come to be known as the Mass.

At Mass Catholics gather to celebrate the Eucharist, the ritual in which, by the power of the Holy Spirit, bread and wine are transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ. We who celebrate are also transformed, becoming Christ’s presence to others, and recognising the presence of Christ in others. For more information visit here https://flameoffaith.org.au/eucharist/

Holy Communion is a profound gift we are offered each week. It is a choice we make to accept or reject this gift. God loves us so much that he wants to be with us always. It is never too late to come back to him and say yes to the love he offers through the Blessed Sacrament.

Reconciliation Week 

This week at St Anthony’s we observed Reconciliation Week. The theme for this year is, ‘Now more than ever.’ Reconciliation Week is a time to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. This Reconciliation Week our students learned about the shared history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. 

The students have been learning about the achievements of a number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, including Mabo, Cathy Freeman and Vincent Lingiari.

Missing jumpers and jackets

We have had many jumpers, jackets and hats go missing. A number of families say their child's things are clearly labelled, but have possibly been taken home accidently by another child.

Could you please check that your child has taken home their correct hat, jumper and jacket and bring back any items that may not be theirs.

We also have a huge surplus of tupperware in lost property. Could you please encourage your child to check lost property under the stairs for any items that might be theirs. It has become an eyesore and we will be discarding unclaimed items at the end of next week.

Thoughtful Parenting Workshop

Thoughtful Parenting Workshop

This Thursday, June 06, we will be hosting a Thoughtful Parenting Workshop in the St Anthony’s school hall at 12:30. We encourage our St Anthony’s families to attend. Refreshments will be provided. Please see the attached flyer to register your attendance.

The 2024 Premier's Reading Challenge is open!

Dear Parents and Carers,

All children at St Anthony’s are invited to take part in this year's NSW Premier's Reading Challenge (PRC). This is a program that encourages students to read quality fiction and non-fiction books from a selected list nominated by the premier's office.

What does the challenge involve?

To become involved in the challenge, Kindergarten to Year 2 students need to experience 30 books, 20 of these books need to come from the K-2 PRC booklists. 10 books can be their own free choice. Children can read the books on their own OR be read to by parents/carers. 

For years 3-6, students need to read 20 books, 10 of these books must be on the PRC booklist and 10 books can be their own free choice.

PRC books can be found in our school library, at home and in local council libraries. For the PRC booklists, please visit:  https://online.det.nsw.edu.au/prc/booklist/home.html

All books need to be read and recorded online by 23rd August 2024 (by 11:59 pm).  Students will receive a certificate from the PRC team on completion. PRC Certificates will be awarded in Term 4.

Further information is contained on the PRC website including the booklist for each level of the challenge: https://online.det.nsw.edu.au/prc/rules.html

How to register and record books online:

Students can begin their reading now! Follow the below instructions to log on and begin registering your books:

1. Go to the PRC website https://online.det.nsw.edu.au/prc/home.html or Google Premier's Reading Challenge NSW 2023.
2. Click on the yellow ‘PRC Student Site’ box then select the "log on" button at the top right-hand corner of the page.
3. Enter the student's username and password. If you have forgotten details or are registering for the first time please email lauren.plunkett@lism.catholic.edu.au and a username and password will be generated and emailed to you. 
4. Enter the PRC ID code for each book the student has read. You can search for books on the website.

Please feel free to contact Mrs Plunkett if you have any questions, and look out for more information about the PRC in our School Newsletter, library displays and awards throughout the term. 

Happy reading!

Mrs Plunkett

PRC Coordinator

Woodwork Program 2024

The St Anthony’s Woodwork Program has been progressing strongly this year. Students from Years 5 and 6, have been engaging in various basic woodwork projects during each week and enjoying experiencing a range of new skills. Students from other Grades are able to access the “Shed” during some lunchtimes as well and whenever the roll-a-door is opened, it becomes a hive of activity.

We do have a problem though; our container shed has sprung a “leak” or “leaks” in the metal roof. We are in search of a tradie parent who may be a roofer who is able to assist in the repair of the metal roof. 

Please contact Paul Monahan, or leave your contact at the office.

The woodwork program is a fantastic initiative for our students and any donations of timber, furniture pieces or trade knowledge would always be most appreciated.

Kind regards,

Paul Monahan

Important Notice Regarding Dogs on School Grounds

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We hope this message finds you well. As part of our commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all students, staff, and visitors, we would like to remind you of the regulations concerning dogs on school premises as outlined in the Companion Animals Act 1998 (NSW, Section 14).

Dogs on School Grounds

According to the Companion Animals Act, dogs are generally prohibited on school grounds unless the principal has granted specific permission. Such permissions are typically reserved for:

• Assistance or service dogs
• Farm working dogs
• Visits by organised groups or programs for school incursions
• School support dogs

We understand that many families enjoy walking their dogs during school drop-off and pick-up times. However, we kindly ask that dogs remain outside the school gates. You are welcome to wait with your dog just outside the gate and arrange for your child to meet you there. This practice helps us ensure the safety and comfort of all students, particularly those who may have allergies or a fear of dogs.

Important Points for Consideration

Responsibility: Only individuals aged 18 or over can be responsible for a dog, as stated in the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTAA).

Procedural Fairness: Schools are obligated to consult with parents and consider all relevant information before making decisions regarding assistance dogs.

Health and Safety: Our priority is to maintain a safe environment for everyone on school grounds.

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding in adhering to these guidelines. By keeping our school grounds dog-free, except for authorised circumstances, we can ensure a safer and more inclusive environment for all students.

This notice aligns with our commitment to safety and compliance with state legislation. Your cooperation is crucial in maintaining a welcoming and secure environment for our school community.

If you have any questions or need further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact the school administration.

Thank you for your support in this matter.

Sports News

NSWPSSA AFL Championships

Harper Gallagher of Year 6, last week represented Polding at the NSWPSSA AFL Championships in Albury. After an extremely successful tournament with some impressive performances, Harper was selected in the NSW State team. He is now off to the National Championships in Geelong, how exciting!

Congratulations Harper and good luck! St Anthony’s are proud of your achievements in your chosen sport.

Rugby Union Diocesan Trials

Congratulations to Beau Wakefield, Joey Loughland, Flynn Horton and Joe Handisides who recently represented the Tweed Zone at the Diocesan Rugby Union trials in Grafton. By all accounts your effort and sportsmanship was exceptional.

It’s been great to see our St Anthony’s students represent the Tweed Zone and the Lismore Diocese in a range of sports this Term.

Athletics Carnival Reminders

Please read the following information carefully regarding the Athletics Carnival on Tuesday 18th June.

1500m Zone Trials -

If your child would like to be considered to attend the Tweed Zone 1500m trials at St Joseph’s College Oval (date TBA), they are required to submit a time through the St Anthony’s email (closing date TBA). This time must be certified by a running coach or Little Athletics coach. The top 2 times for each age group of boys and girls will be invited to attend the trials.

The age groups are:

• 8, 9 and 10 Years (Junior) Boys and Girls
• 11 Years Boys and Girls
• 12/13 Years Boys and Girls

Please email certified times to: sapkings@lism.catholic.edu.au

Shot Put - Please read the new date due to a clash.

This will be run during Sports Athletics classes at school on Tuesday 11th June, Week 7. Sign ups for this event have started in classroom groups. This is a competitive event that is not compulsory and is ONLY FOR 8 YEARS and OLDER.

Long Jump Trials

Long Jump trials for all students in Years 2 to 6 will be run during PE lessons this term in Week 6. The Top 6 jumpers (boys and girls) from age groups 8 to 12/13 Years who qualify will compete in the Long Jump finals at the  Athletics Carnival in Week 8. All other students will compete in non-competitive Long Jump at the carnival to gain house points.

If your child is in Year 2 and will be turning 7 this year, they can still participate in the Long Jump trials during PE lessons BUT they are not eligible to participate in the Long Jump at the Athletics Carnival.

800m

Sign ups for the 800m races will take place next week in classroom groups.

The 800m is a competitive race for ages 8 to 12/13 Years. The race is ran in the following age groups:

• Junior boys and girls: 8, 9 and 10 Years
• 11 Years boys and girls
• Senior boys and girls: 12 & 13 Years

This year the race will be run at 8:30am sharp at the Walter Peate Oval, Murphy’s Road Kingscliff, on the day of the carnival. If your child nominates for this event they will be required to arrive no later than 8:15am at the Athletics complex.

Transport will be the responsibility of parents.

By starting this event early it will ensure all events are finished on the day in time for the House Relay.

More information will be sent out closer to the event.

SCHOOL PHOTO DAY

THIS WEEK AT FLYING START

This week was all about Healthy Harold who came to visit us earlier in the week. He taught us all about exploring our feelings and how to build positive relationships with friends. He certainly knew a lot for a giraffe!!

We spent time each day building on these positive relationships with a friendship tree, outside games and stories. 

Our resident pet Beardie the Bearded Dragon is always a great learning experience as we get to feed and pat him at least a few days a week. Beardie teaches us all about how to look after pets as well as our environment

A very busy week we have had.

Misc News

Parish Information and News

Parish Priest: Fr Paul McDonald

Finance Manager: Paul Crouch

Parish Secretary: Marty Darragh

Pastoral Assistant: Catherine Holliday

Phone: 0266741368

Email: parkings@bigpond.com

Website: http://stanthonysparishkingslciff.org

WEEKEND MASS TIMES
VIGIL: KINGSCLIFF 5:00pm
SUNDAY:POTTSVILLE 7:30am
KINGSCLIFF 9:00am

WEEKDAY MASS TIMES
TUESDAY: POTTSVILLE 9:15am
WEDNESDAY: KINGSCLIFF 8:00am
THURSDAY: KINGSCLIFF 9:00am
FRIDAY: KINGSCLIFF 8:00am

RECONCILIATION TIMES

SATURDAY: KINGSCLIFF4:00-4:30pm
SUNDAY: POTTSVILLE 7:00—7:25am

Current Office Hours: Tuesday - Thursday 9am-3pm

PARISH NEWSLETTER LINK: http://stanthonysparishkingscliff.org/news-events/

St Anthony's Parish - Care Group

Many parents may have noticed from the Parish Bulletin, that the Parish has a Care Group which, among other things seeks to provide meals to any parishoners in need.

This could include times of family sickness, new mums struggling to provide for the family in the early days of returning home, and many other circumstances of genuine need.

Please be aware that the Care Group is very willing to help out if any families find themselves in need of this service.

Contact: Parish Office: 0266 741 284 or Maree Moore 0439 174 116