Principals Message
Whole school focus
At our first school assembly the school captains announced that the whole school’s Learning Intention, for the next few weeks, is for everyone to be “Using people’s names and using manners” when we speak to others at school. It is amazing the difference it makes when staff and students consistently greet each other, using names, a positive tone of voice and good manners. It improves spirits and brightens the day for everyone!
One of the things we find we need to explicitly teach at school is the difference between formal and informal language and when to use each type. Society generally uses informal language much more frequently than in the past. For example, it is becoming very rare these days to hear children refer to their neighbours as “Mr and Mrs Smith” or their aunties and uncles as “Aunty Sue” or “Uncle Mike” as opposed to simply using their first names, which is much more informal. However there are times when using formal language is much more appropriate than the alternative. Formal language is usually used when speaking to someone of authority for example or going for a job interview or applying for a bank loan… and at school. When conversing with teachers and school staff we expect the students to use formal language. Teachers and staff should be addressed by name and spoken to with respect which is evident in the tone of voice and words used. We find that many students don’t automatically know how to do this. They can tend to address staff in a more casual way that may come across as disrespectful at times, therefore we spend time teaching them what is expected. The visual below is an example of a tool we might use to show and remind students of the expectations.
As educators we try to be friendly, approachable and supportive of students…but not their friends. We need our relationship with students to be a professional one. We appreciate any way you can support this at home!
In our efforts to create a strong culture of respect, understanding and acceptance where everyone is given the opportunity to thrive, we try to explicitly teach the students how to be caring, kind and compassionate. Through our high expectations of student behaviour, we continually ask children to be aware of the impact their behaviour has on others. Through learning self-discipline/control, self- regulation and self-management individuals are able to set personal goals, accelerate their learning and achievements and enhance their wellbeing: their mental health.
Parent-Teacher Interviews
Our first Parent - Teacher Interviews for 2024 will be held on Tuesday March 5 and Thursday March 7, between 3.40 pm and 6.00pm. To provide each student with the best opportunity to grow and thrive, we need to work in partnership with parents. Please make an appointment with your child/ren’s teacher/s (unless you already have an appointment for a PSG meeting). If neither of these days suit, please contact your child/ren’s teacher directly to arrange another time as this first interview is particularly important.
Parent Helpers Welcome for Lunchtime Clubs
Each term there are several Lunchtime Clubs that run from 1.50pm- 2.20pm.
Please see the table below for this term:
|
Day |
Type of Activity |
Teacher |
Location |
|
Monday |
Sports |
Mr Granger |
Oval |
|
Tuesday |
Sports |
Mrs Richards |
Gym |
|
Wednesday |
Sports Gardening Club |
Mr Granger Mrs Gin |
Oval Around the school |
|
Thursday |
Sports Italian Club |
Mrs Richards Maestra Daniel |
Gym Italian room |
|
Friday |
Basketball Choir |
Ms Nielsen Ms Paulson |
Gym Hall |
Parents/Carers or Friends are most welcome to assist with Lunchtime Clubs. All volunteers must have a Working With Children Check and there is a process we need to adhere to before beginning.
Please contact the school office for more information via info@stjwonthaggi.catholic.edu.au.
Joanne Coldebella
Principal