Week 8, Term 4 2018

Principal News Jenny Hawkins

Bishop Elliott's Retirement Mass this Sunday 2nd December at 5pm

A thank you celebration mass will be held to recognise Bishop Elliott's tremendous contribution to the St Kevin's and St Patrick's schools and Parishes on Sunday 2nd December at 5pm in St Patrick's church. Our St Patrick's staff and families are invited to attend. There will be refreshments in Rovira House after mass.
Any donations towards a gift for Bishop Elliott can be placed in an envelope and given in at the school office.
Please keep Bishop Elliott in your prayers as he prepares for retirement. We especially thank him for confirming many of our children during his 11 years as bishop.

The Advent Wreath

Perhaps the best-known of all Advent symbols is the Advent wreath, a custom which originated among German Lutherans but was soon adopted by Catholics. Consisting of four candles(three purple and one pink) arranged in a circle with evergreen boughs (and often a fifth, white candle in the center), the Advent wreath corresponds to the four Sundays of Advent. The purple candles represent the penitential nature of the season, while the pink candle calls to mind a time to reflect. (The white candle, when used, represents Christmas.)

At school we celebrate Advent with the children. You are welcome to join us in the church for the four Advent liturgies on the following days from 2:30 - 3:00pm:
Monday 3 Dec Week 1 Advent
Friday 7 Dec Week 2 Advent
Friday 14 Dec Week 3 Advent
Mon 17 Dec Week 4 Advent

PatCare

At a recent Parish meeting I met a past parent of our school. She asked if PatCare was still operating at St Pat's as her family had benefitted from the support during a challenging time in their lives. I explained that it most certainly was.

PatCare is a community initiative that provides a meal or support to members of our school community. Special thanks to Paula Sanders in her role as our PatCare coordinator and the many contributions and offers of support from our school community particularly over the past couple of weeks.

Parish Education Board Update

Our final meeting for the 2018 year was held on Wednesday night. Here is a summary of some of the key points shared and discussed:

• Bree Langham attended and presented the P&F end of year report and shared the many positive outcomes of the social events and fundraising efforts. Almost $15,000 of funds have been raised. (The 2018 funds have covered the costs of a second set of flexible furniture for another Year 5 classroom at $10000 and $4000 towards replacement projectors to improve classroom interactive whiteboards ).
• Steven Peters and Jenny Jones presented an update with John O' Sullivan in relation to the application for the Capital Grant for the Masterplan building refurbishment. Special thanks to John, Jenny and Steven for spending many hours preparing the application.
• Outcomes of the Catholic School Identity Survey and the School Improvement Survey were shared in the principal's report along with the recent OHS and policy external audits. The staff are preparing for the school review in 2019 and the focus is on continuity of best teaching practice for excellence in student outcomes.
• In the Parish report, Fr Leenus commented on how well prepared the children and teachers are for school masses and our challenge to encourage more families to join the Family Masses. The plans for Bishop Elliott's Retirement mass and the message from the recent Archdiocese letter were also shared.

I would personally like to thank all of the members of the Parish Education Board for their hard work and support this year. In particular, the valuable contribution from our parents on the Masterplan Committee including James Hawkins and Travis Westcott and the Grants Committee with John O'Sullivan, Jenny Jones and Steven Peters. Finally, thank you to John O'Sullivan our Chairperson and Gabby Paroli our Secretary. Our first meeting for 2019 will take place on 20th February.

School Website

The school website is continuing to be updated with new information and photos. You can access the website at this link. If you have any suggestions or feedback around anything to be included or changed then please email principal@spmurrumbeena.catholic.edu.au

IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS

Thanks to the P and F for enhancing St Patrick's with the wonderful aroma of Christmas, albeit only until all the trees find their way to their December homes.

Important Term 4 Dates:

Monday 3rd December            Swimming Program  continues (P-4)  
                                                 Year 5/6 Beach/Sailing program continues

Wednesday 5th December       Booklist collection  Rovira House from 3pm, Buddy Meet & Greet
Friday 7th December               Music Melodies Concert
Monday 17th December          Year 6 Graduation
Tuesday 18th December          End of Year School Picnic
Wednesday 19th December     Last day of term 4 (children dismissed @ 1pm)

 TEAMKIDS

For more information click on the following link

Week 7, Term 4, 2018

Principal News from Jenny Hawkins

Advent
Advent is the season of new beginnings. A new liturgical year begins on the First Sunday of Advent and it beckons to us with images of transformation and hope. It is the season of the impossible becoming possible. Week by week, candles are lit on the Advent wreath signifying our longing for the light of Christ, as the time of his birth draws near.
At school we will celebrate Advent with the children. You are welcome to join us in the church for the four Advent liturgies on the following days from 2:30 - 3:00pm:
Monday 3 Dec Week 1 Advent
Friday 7 Dec Week 2 Advent
Friday 14 Dec Week 3 Advent
Mon 17 Dec Week 4 Advent

Confirmation Dates 2019
We have just received notification from the Archdiocese for Confirmation for 2019. These dates are allocated to all schools. Often families like to know these dates in advance. The Sacrament of Confirmation for our Year 6's will be Wednesday 23 & Thursday 24 October at 7pm.

Mini Market Donation
Thank you to the Yr 5 & 6 students who worked hard to run the Mini Market activities last Friday. $1500 was raised for St Vincent de Paul and for Catholic Missions. Thanks to all families for your contributions.
At the start of the week, we shared the news about the very sad passing of Robert Gordon. After speaking to the family, they were agreeable to a portion of the funds being donated to them to recognise a Catholic Mission close to home. Often we look abroad to communities in need and overlook the needs right in front of us.
Lisa Gordon sends her heartfelt thanks to the PATCARE team of parents and families in the community who are coordinating meals and gardening support for the family in the coming weeks. You can understand more about the PATCARE Parents and Friends initiative by going to this link or contact Paula Sanders 0418300936 to offer your help.

RSL Project Recognition
Congratulation to  Yr 6 leader Will Dickson who was awarded a scholarship by the Hon. Kelly O’Dwyer for his “Drip Gun” model. This was presented at a special Remembrance Day ceremony. It was noted that he standard of entries by all of the St. Pat’s children was of a very high standard. Many thanks to Matt Hale for attending with the children.

OUTSTANDING Maths Results Years 2-6 2018
Recently we shared with you St Patrick’s outstanding results in all areas assessed through NAPLAN, as well as our exceptional comprehension results. We are delighted that these results are matched and surpassed by the attached results for maths in 2018. The following table highlights the percentage of students at each year level operating one year or more above the expected standard in maths. Typically, 25% of students in a cohort operate at this level. In every Year level St Patrick’s results are more than double that expected benchmark.

	Yr 2	Yr 3	Yr 4	Yr 5	Yr 6
Percentage of students at St Patrick's operating One year or more above the expected standard in maths	59%	61%	69%	65%	58%

Our new collaborative planning model for 2019 which includes additional input from Liz Hills our Deputy Principal and Kerryn Oliver, Learning diversity Leader, across all planning teams and classrooms, will have further accelerated impact and enhanced learning opportunities for every student at St Pat's.

Transition Sessions and Staff Update for 2019 
On Monday, in the first of three transition sessions, our children will meet their teachers as they join classes for 2019. Fortunately, our new teachers will all be available to come to at least one of the transition sessions. A notice will come home with the children on Monday with the name of their teacher. These are the transition dates:
Monday 26 Nov 3:00-3:30
Friday 7 Dec 10:30-11:15
Tuesday 11 Dec 10:00-12:00
With Kim Wilson newly married, the daily commute has unfortunately proven too much. We wish Kim well as a classroom teacher, closer to home at St Joseph's, Chelsea and thank her for her valued contribution to St Pat's.
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Maddy Kappler. Maddy is a high academic achiever from the Australian Catholic University who brings rich and diverse experiences from abroad. These include intensive studies in the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, Native American Studies at Fort Lewis College in Colorado and volunteer teaching in Cambodia. We look forward to Maddy joining our teaching team as we continue to engage all learners to ensure they leave St Patrick’s self motivated and ready to make a positive impact on their world (taken from our St Pat's vision narrative).

School commencement date for 2019
ALL children will start on Thursday 31st January.  Staff will be commencing on Tuesday 29th January with 2 full days of professional development on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Emergency Evacuation Drill
This week, the whole school carried out an emergency evacuation drill with excellent results. Over 400 students and adults evacuated the school in 3 minutes and 8 seconds. The adults are currently completing a review of the drill as part of our Health and Safety procedures.

New Hall Kitchen 

Take your last look at a "before" photo of the kitchen. On Monday, work will commence on the new kitchen. During the 2 week period, Team Kids will use our Staff Room to prepare food before the new kitchen is operational. Finally !!!

State Election
Tomorrow St Patrick's school hall will become a voting venue for the State Election. Thanks to Alicia Cerreto and the Year 4 class reps for organising the cake stall for Election Day this Saturday.  If you could assist by baking for the stall - that would be great! Please drop your baked goods off at school pick up, on Friday, 23rd November in the Staff Room. Alternatively, on the Saturday when you come to vote. Similar to the Fete NO nuts, NO fresh cream and please label all ingredients. Please support this event with your cakes and attendance. Thanks to Nicole and John Howard for running the sausage sizzle and to all of the parent helpers.

P & F AGM 2:30 Friday 30 November Please join us in the staffroom as we come together and begin to make plans for next year.

Reminder regarding the Swimming Program Year Prep - 4
Swimming commences on Monday.  Don't forget to name all items of uniform/swimming accessories before heading off to the pool.  Children need to wear their runners and sports uniform to school with their bathers underneath.  They should bring a pair of thongs to leave at school for the duration of the program. Swimming bags should contain a pair of socks and underwear to change into, along with a towel, goggles and a brush or comb.

Important Term 4 Dates:

Monday 26th November          Swimming Program  commences (P-4)  (note to follow)
                                                 Year 5/6 Beach/Sailing program commences
Friday 30th November             P&F AGM @2:30pm
Wednesday 5th December       Booklist collection  Rovira House from 3pm
Friday 7th December               Music Melodies Concert
Wednesday 19th December     Last day of term 4 (children dismissed @ 1pm)

SUMMER HOLIDAY PROGRAM FOR TEAMKIDS

For more information click on the following link

Week 6, Term 4, 2018

Mission Mass
Today the children attended a whole school mass to celebrate Catholic Mission week.
The Year 5's and 6's set up their Mini Market stalls to raise funds for St Vincent de Paul and the Catholic Missions.

A prayer for the world mission appeal
Lord, our God, help us to walk with you
On the pathway to the beatitudes and
To live out your mission in today’s world.
Open our hearts and our Christian communities
To the needy, the afflicted, the oppressed.

This prayer we make to you
AMEN

Mini Market

The Year 5's and 6's have spent time planning projects to raise money for the missions. The rest of the school enjoyed participating in the activities today. 

School Closure / Staff Planning Day Wednesday 20th November

The staff are beginning preparations for the 2019 school year. All staff, including our new teachers, will come together to plan. During the year, the teachers have trialled "Practice Fields", (focussed changes and improvements to raise student outcomes). You can read all about these developments at this link. Please remember the school is closed on Wednesday. Team Kids will be open on the day.

Prep Information Night

On Tuesday, about fifty parents, attended the "new look" Prep Information Night. Special thanks to Nuala and Greg Veale for sharing their experiences as new Prep parents, Bree and Annie representing the P&F, Andrew representing Team Kids and Jenny Jones speaking on behalf of the Parish Education Board. The evening concluded in the staffroom with new parents sharing that they already felt included in the vibrant St Pat's Community and can't wait for their children to begin school. Most of the parents are looking forward to the Prep Welcome Drinks organised by the P & F. They take place on Thursday 22nd November at Wines on Poath from 7:30pm (contact Bron Brown bron91@yahoo.com or Gabby Parr gabbyparr@gmail.com ) for more information.

St Pats Family Fun Fair 2019

A group of enthusiastic parents met during this week to plan for the new look Family Fun Fair in 2019. Special thanks to Nadine Power for coordinating this event. Any parents interested in contributing to the event please contact Nadine via email npowered@icloud.com

The date is set for Saturday October 26th, 11am -5pm.

Swimming Program Year Prep - 4
Please ensure that all swimming forms have been returned to school by Monday at the latest.  Don't forget to name all items of uniform/swimming accessories that head off to the pool.

Important Term 4 Dates:

Wednesday 21st November      School Closure Day
Monday 26th November          Swimming Program  commences (P-4)  (note to follow)
                                                 Year 5/6 Beach/Sailing program commences
Friday 30th November             P&F AGM @2:30pm
Wednesday 5th December       Booklist collection 
Friday 7th December               Music Melodies Concert
Wednesday 19th December     Last day of term 4 (children dismissed @ 1pm)

COMMUNITY NOTICES

SHARE THE DIGNITY #itsinthebag CAMPAIGN
Many thanks to those for you who have already supported this fantastic cause by dropping handbags filled with personal care items into reception.
Share the Dignity supports homeless women by collecting handbags filled with personal and sanitary items for distribution in December. For more information, please see the website below:

https://www.sharethedignity.com.au/christmas-charity/

If you’re still interested in supporting the campaign, please get a handbag that you no longer use and fill it with items such as shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, sanitary items, etc and drop it at reception any time before FRIDAY NOVEMBER 23. Please contact Liz Cosgrave on 0409 571 196 (Ella in 5M) if you have any further queries. Thank you!

Week 5, Term 4 2018

Principal News and Weekly Updates from Jenny Hawkins

Bishop Elliott's Retirement Mass 2nd December
On the 1st October, Most Rev Bishop Elliott turned 75. On the 3rd November, Pope Francis accepted Bishop Elliott's resignation.
A thank you celebration mass will be held to recognise Bishop Elliott's tremendous contributions to the St Kevin's and St Patrick's schools and Parishes on Sunday 2nd December at 5pm in St Patrick's church.
Our St Patrick's staff and families are invited to attend. There will be refreshments in the foyer of the church after mass.
Any donations towards a gift for Bishop Elliott can be placed in an envelope and given in at the school office.
Please keep Bishop Elliott in your prayers as he prepares for retirement. We especially thank him for confirming many of our children during his 11 years as bishop.

Remembrance Day Assembly

This Monday 12th November you are welcome to join us for a special ceremony led by Mrs Mullans and our Yr 6 Leaders. This will take place at 9am in the school hall.

1-1 Chromebook Devices for Yr 5 & 6 for 2019
A letter with full details about the Lenova 100e chromebook and the portal for current Year 4's to place orders is now accessible on our Learning Community Site at this link. This device forms part of the stationary requirements and orders will need to be placed through the portal by December 14th.
A private link to a site for the onselling of 2nd hand devices is also available on the same page on the Learning Community Site.
There is also a FAQ section available on the page. Any further questions can be directed to me principal@spmurrumbeena.catholic.edu.au

Year 5 & 6 Camp Information 2019

A large turnout of over forty parents attended the recent camp information evening led by Paul Jones, Year 5 teacher, Camp Leader and Co-ordinator. The full presentation about the new camp for 2019 can be accessed on our Learning Community Site at this link. Special thanks to Mr Jones for sourcing this exciting new venue. Further details with forms to complete will be shared with families. A FAQ page will also be set up on the same page on the site.

New Event Meeting (Fair Activity) This Wednesday 14th November 7:30pm Staffroom

Please come and join the working party who are planning the new community event for 2019. Nadine Power will be chairing this second meeting in the Staffroom this Wednesday 14th November. 

Plastic Bottle tops

Miss Karin is calling for any colored plastic bottle tops for the next major art project...eg .lemonade, juice, milk bottle tops.  All donations of washed tops can be placed in the box in the office foyer.

Lost at school sports
Aiden D of 5M (and Tobin) lost his hat at the school sports last week.  It is clearly named.  If it has made it's way home to your house by mistake, please return to the school office or to Aiden.  Many thanks.

Important Term 4 Dates:

Tuesday 13th November          Prep Information Night @ 7pm
Wednesday 14th November     New Event Meeting@ 7:30pm
Wednesday 21st November      School Closure Day
Monday 26th November          Swimming Program  commences (P-4)  (note to follow)
                                                 Year 5/6 Beach/Sailing program commences
Wednesday 5th December        Booklist collection 
Friday 7th December               Music Melodies Concert
Wednesday 19th December     Last day of term 4 (children dismissed @ 1pm)

Week 4 Term 4 2018

Reflecting on All Saints and All Souls
This week we celebrate the Feast of All Saints and All Souls. Here is a special prayer.

Lord God, we remember with love all those who have died.. (Pause for silent reflection)

We ask for the support of all your saints who by their persistence and example have shown us how to live and love in Your ways. Give us strength to cope with the daily routines that wear us down. Help us to act as your witnesses when we respond to each other with love, not with impatience, carelessness, rudeness or fear. In your love, we can find our way forward into your promised heaven.

We ask this through Christ our Lord,
Amen

Sports Day Report from Michelle Barclay

What a great display of colour, team spirit and talent we had at our School Sports Day at Duncan Mackinnon Reserve yesterday!! Children had the opportunity to show their skills and experience athletics events, on a fun day with a fantastic atmosphere (despite the heat)!

Special thanks to the wonderful parent helpers who offered their time and assistance on the day. We greatly appreciated those who could help out with Yr 3-6 field events, Prep-2 activity circuit, track events, first aid and transporting all the equipment- the day couldn't have run smoothly without you.

Congratulations to the Yr 6 leaders who embraced their roles on the day and led the school in cheers and promoting a fantastic team spirit. Well done to Grabau (gold) house who were awarded the Spirit of St Patrick's shield and Tobin (green) who were the winning house for 2018.

Special thanks to Michelle Barclay, our wonderful Physical Education Leader for coordinating another fantastic Sports Day !! Thanks to the efforts of all of our staff too for helping to make the day such a success.

St Pat's High Performance in Reading and Comprehension Results Years 1-6

Currently the teachers are administering, collating and analysing data on our students’ performance in literacy and maths. The following table highlights the percentage of students at each year level operating one year or more above the expected standard in reading. This aligns with the NAPLAN data presented in last week’s Shamrock. Typically, 25% of students in a cohort operate at this level. In most cases our results are double that expected benchmark. Next week we will feature our maths results.

Have a safe long weekend with your families. We look forward to seeing you back at school on Wednesday 7th November.

Booklists
All booklists should now have been lodged if you require collection from Rovira House on December 5th.

Plastic Bottle tops

Miss Karin is calling for any colored plastic bottle tops for the next major art project...eg .lemonade, juice, milk bottle tops.  All donations of washed tops can be placed in the box in the office foyer.

Kids Artworks

The children have been busily preparing their art piece (under the creative guidance of Miss Karin) for the annual 2019 Kids Artwork calendar.  These make great Christmas presents.

For those wanting to see the finished piece before purchase, they will be available to view under the portico from 3.15pm today November 2nd.

The order forms need to be returned to school.  Payment can be made in cash or through Trybooking. Please note if  you are paying through Trybooking, please write the receipt number on the form instead of the cash amount.

Important Term 4 Dates:
Monday 5th November            School Closure Day
Tuesday 6th November            Melbourne Cup Day
Friday 9th November               Orders close for Kids Artworks calendars
Tuesday 13th November          Prep Information Night @ 7pm
Wednesday 21st November      School Closure Day
Monday 26th November          Swimming Program  commences (P-4)  (note to follow)
                                                 Year 5/6 Beach/Sailing program commences
Wednesday 5th December        Booklist collection
Friday 7th December               Music Melodies Concert
Wednesday 19th December     Last day of term 4 (children dismissed @ 1pm)

P & F  NOTICES

COMMUNITY NOTICES