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- St Joseph's School Vision
- Principal's Message
- Prep Neighbourhood
- 5/6 Neighbourhood
- Whole School Approach to Positive Behaviour
- District Soccer
- Regional Cross Country
- District Football and Netball
- Celebration Of Learning
- Communion
- Confirmation
- Sport Polos
- Parent Teacher Interviews - Term 2
- AFL Clinic
- Prep Tours / Application for Enrolment 2023
- SchoolTV
- School Fees Term 2
- End of Term 2
- Parish News
- Girl Guides
- PlayTime OT For Kids
- Shining a Light
Every Child, Every Day,
Learning and Achieving in a Faith - Filled Environment
Dear Parents, Students, Staff and all associated with St Joseph’s Community
This week we welcome our external reviewers Maryanne O’Rourke and Nicholas Hall to our school. Today is the first day of the two day review process which will see the review team busy interviewing staff, students and a number of parents over the coming days. They will also spend time walking through classrooms. I am looking forward to their feedback and their report that will be compiled following their visit. This report will give our school affirmations, commendations and recommendations, which will help guide us to continue to strive to be a school that provides excellent learning opportunities for our children.
Teachers are now in the process of finalising Semester One reports. These reports will reflect how your children are going in their learning journey. There should be no surprises on these documents if open communication has been occurring. Classroom teachers have spent time collating and ensuring the report reflects accurately how your child/ren have achieved. I thank the teaching staff for all their efforts in preparing these reports that will go out at the end of this week.
Next week will be our Term 2 Parent Teacher Interviews which will be held, by telephone or face to face, on Tuesday and Thursday afternoon. I encourage you to take the opportunity to discuss your child/ren’s progress with their teacher/s. Strong parent-teacher relationships are instrumental to children’s learning and development. In these challenging times it is especially important to maintain communication.
Prep interviews are continuing at present. If you know of anyone who has a child ready for Prep in 2023, please ask them to contact the school and make an appointment to see me. We are creating a great learning environment for students and would love to have them come and take a tour - demand is very high and places are filling quickly!
I know that some of our students will be receiving their Sacrament of First Holy Communion over this coming weekend. Our prayers are with these children and their families at this special time. May they continue to be blessed in many ways.
Looking forward to seeing parents at our Celebration of Learning afternoon next Monday at 2.30pm.
Wishing our students every success with all they are doing over the next fortnight.
Yours in Catholic Education
Ronan O’Mahony
Principal
The Prep children have been very busy with visitors who have all helped us to further understand about who helps us in our community and what they actually do in their jobs. This week we have Jack the veterinarian coming to tell us all about his job. Before Jack arrives we will come up with a list of questions to ask Jack.
The end of term is very busy in the senior area, with lots of revision and assessment happening before the end of Semester 1. In our maths sessions we have been working on symmetry; translation, reflection and rotation of shapes, and comparing and ordering decimals. Next we will be using protractors to measure and compare angles.
We finished our unit on persuasive writing by using our persuasive writing techniques to prepare a speech we would like to deliver in parliament, on a topic we think is important. There were a great range of interesting ideas presented. We are now revising our narrative writing skills, especially writing engaging orientations.
We have had lots of fun investigating chemical science and learning about solids, liquids and gases and are now working on posters and models to show our learning at the open day at the end of term. We are looking forward to seeing you there on Monday 20th June.
Thanks to all the children who are continuing to read regularly and bring in their signed reading diaries each week. It is important to keep up these valuable routines even in these busy times at the end of term. Thanks to the many parents who are supporting their children by reading with them (still so helpful even for older students) and signing their diaries.
5/6 Team
Whole School Approach to Positive Behaviour
Active supervision
Active supervision is the observation, focused attention and intentional interaction with students within the school community, to create an environment that is safe and responsive to the needs of all. Staff position themselves to observe all students: watching, monitoring, and listening at all times. Staff have knowledge and understanding of students’ development of social and emotional abilities, to enable the acknowledgment of positive behaviour, anticipation of behaviour and redirection when necessary. Staff members are aware of the impact of their actions and work to de-escalate behaviour. Active supervision involves:
- Understanding duty of care by being aware of and acting on potential risks to student emotional and physical safety
- Being underpinned by the School Wide Expectations
- Purposefully interacting and connecting with students
- Positioning to have a high degree of visibility
- Actively moving around the space during supervision
- Visually scanning, and using non-verbal signals to show that you notice behaviour
- Having processes to de-escalate by responding, diffusing and seeking assistance if required, to maintain dignity and emotional and physical safety
- Staff understanding how their actions can escalate or de-escalate behaviour
Whole School Approach to Positive Behaviour Co-ordinators
Trish Martin and Travis Newton
Last Thursday some of our Grade 5/6 students represented our school at the District Soccer Tournament at the Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve.
Despite battling some pretty ordinary conditions, all our students went into their games with energy and enthusiasm!
None of our teams made it through to the next round, however the level of sportsmanship and encouragement for their teammates that the students displayed was something to be very proud of.
Special mention to Andrew Binnichen who selflessly volunteered to play for our second boys team the morning of as we had lost some numbers due to illness. Another special mention to Hayden Purton who showed extraordinary striking skills on the pitch, scoring 4 of his own goals, but passing off many other goal opportunities to his teammates. True acts of St Joseph's sportsmanship!
Thank you to everyone involved in organising the event and to the parents who braved the cold to come and cheer us on.
Kasey Ton, Claire Shannon and Claire Lewis.
Jude and Milla represented St Joseph’s at the Regional Cross Country. Both students had fantastic runs and set wonderful individual achievements. Jude now progresses to the State Championships after finishing 4th in the under 11s. Congratulations to both students.
On Friday June 3 a group of our 5/6 students competed in District Football and Netball, all of our teams showed great sportsmanship towards the umpires, coaches and their opposition. Well done to each team for a fantastic day and a big thanks to Jason, Alyce and Chloe for umpiring and helping make this day possible.
Congratulations to all our candidates who made their confirmation with Bishop Gregory Bennet officiating.
Special thanks to Father Darren, Bel O'Brien, Kristine McRae and the 5/6 teachers for helping the students prepare for their Sacrament.
We are pleased to announce that these new shirts are now available for purchase at Totally Work Wear. The white polo's will be phased out over the next 12 months to 2 years.
Parent Teacher Interviews - Term 2
Term 2 Parent Teacher Interviews will be held on Tuesday June 21 and Thursday June 23 between 3:40pm and 5:50 pm.
Bookings for Parent Teacher Interviews are to be made though PAM if you have not setup your account please do so via the email invite previously provided or email the office via info@stjwonthaggi.catholic.edu.au and we will help you get setup.
It is very important for parents and teachers to be working in partnership for the benefit of the students' learning. PT interviews are a great opportunity to discuss your child's progress.
If you have been involved in PSG meetings, please do not arrange an appointment. These interviews are expected to be of 10 minutes duration.
If you have any queries regarding booking an appointment please contact the office.
On Thursday June 16 our Prep, Grades 1,2,3, 4 students will be participating in a footy clinic that will be run by the AFL.
Please ensure your child/ren wear their sports uniform on Thursday and have their drink bottle.
Michelle Richards
Sports Coordinator
Prep Tours / Application for Enrolment 2023
We are now taking bookings for Prep tours and accepting Applications for student enrolments for 2023. Please contact the office on 5672 1052 to make a time. Current families with students attending in 2023 should also book a tour and return an application to ensure all details are current and up to date. The application form can be found below. Email completed forms to jblair@stjwonthaggi.catholic.edu.au
SchoolTV is a service offered to parents with new material offered each month based on topics relevant to helping parents help their children survive and thrive at school. I encourage you all to explore the St Joseph’s SchoolTV website at - St Joseph's SchoolTV
Here, you can explore many topics with advice, reports, articles, videos and more from professionals in adolescent psychology and education.
From this homepage, you can explore the many topics now available to you as parents at St Joseph’s. We encourage you to explore the site, which has something for everyone.
Families not on a direct debit, fees for term 2 have are now due. if you have any queries or have not received your statement please contact the office or email kcarew@stjwonthaggi.catholic.edu.au
Just a reminder to families that Term 2 ends on Friday June 24 at the earlier time of 2:25pm.
We wish you all a safe and happy break and look forward to seeing you all back in the beginning of term 3.
AS OF FRIDAY 25TH FEBRUARY,2022 AT MIDNIGHT, THE WEARING OF MASKS AT MASS BECOMES OPTIONAL, YOU NO LONGER NEED TO QR OR SIGN IN.
PLEASE NOTE: THAT ALL HELPING TO CONDUCT THESE MASSES HAVE BEEN DOUBLE VACCINATED, HAVING ALSO RECEIVED THE 3RD BOOSTER, INCLUDING FATHER, THE SACRISTANS, CLEANING STAFF AND PARISH SECRETARY.
A list of live streams across the Diocese is on www.cdsale.org.au/coronavirus page. This page has listed the Mass times which occur regularly, ie. Don’t change from week to week. JUST A REMINDER THAT MASS FOR YOU AT HOME IS AN OPTION FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR MASS ON TELEVISION (6am on Channel 10, 10am on Foxtel Aurora Channel 173) or online at www.massforyou.com.au or https://www.youtube.com/massforyouathome anytime from 7a.m. AEST
Please pray for those affected by the Ukrainian War. The anniversaries of Rose Kubale, Mgr. Stan Rowe, Fr. William McLoughlin, Bishop Richard Ryan CM, Fr. Michael Clarke OMI and our loved ones. May God’s merciful love shine on them and on their loved ones left behind.
Prayer for Peace and Justice in Ukraine.
PRAYER FOR PEACE AND JUSTICE IN UKRAINE.
God of peace and justice,
who change the hardened heart and break the power of violence, we entrust the people of Ukraine to you.
Protect them in this time of peril;
let them know not death but life, not slavery but freedom.
You are Father of all;
we are brothers and sisters.
Give us the strength to live that truth in love,
choosing peace not war.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
THE SACRAMENT OF FIRST COMMUNION WILL BE CELEBRATED AT ST. JOSEPH’S CHURCH WONTHAGGI ON SUNDAY 19TH JUNE, 2022 10:30a.m. MASS
MEDITATION GROUP: NO MEETING DUE TO THE PUBLIC HOLIDAY.
SHINING A LIGHT: A free workshop about domestic violence. St. Joseph’s Parish Hall Saturday 25th June, 2022 10:00 a.m. to 1:00pm. RSVP BY Thursday 23rd June, 2022 leongatha@cdsale.org.au or
Trybooking: www.trybooking.com/BZEIG
2022 CHILD SAFETY WEEK COMPETITION: Get creative. Tell us what makes you feel safe and supported?
The Diocese invites all school-age children to participate in a competition where entries can be a poster (digital or scanned in electronic form) or video (mp4).
See entry form, ideas and support materials on
https://www.cdsale.org.au/child-safety-week or contact your parish.
Entries close Friday 22nd July, 2022.
SPIRITUALITY RETREAT: JUNE 18TH 2022 Especially for Catechists and Open to ALL.
This is an opportunity to come together as the People of God in the diocese and to explore the deep wells that nourish our spiritual life. This day will be facilitated by Mike Hansen.
In session one we will take pause to look at six types of religious/spiritual experiences: awe and wonder, hearing a voice or receiving a message, the inner world of creativity, a singular sense of self-worth, intense feelings for the world and others, a profound experience of closeness to the divine.
In session two we will trace together some of the markers of a distinctive and authentic Aussie spirituality.
In session three, after lunch, we will share our own spiritual experiences in prayer and a simple ritual.morn
Please RSVP to BarbaraD@sale.catholic.org.au
Lunch is provided, but the cost per person will be $10 to cover catering. Please bring a plate to share for morning tea.
St Vincent de Paul Society; St. Joseph’s Conference As a Conference, we would like to thank you all for your ongoing support for the work we do in the community. Your donations of cash and the food items you place in our baskets in the foyers are of great assistance to our work.
Our conference meets together at 10:30 a.m. in St. Joseph’s Church foyer every 2nd and 4th Wednesday. Here, we pray together and plan our activities for the next fortnight. On four days each week we go out, in pairs, visiting people who have called for assistance. Each member has allocated visits once per fortnight. We always
ensure that our visits are carried out in a COVID safe manner. In the last quarter we made 166 visits, assisting 232 adults and 161 children.
We are always looking for new members. If you feel that you can volunteer a couple of hours per week to be part of our group, you will find it an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
Please give this request some consideration; then contact the Parish Office on 56 721 111 and one of our members will ring you to talk about your involvement and answer any questions.
WALKING IN THE SPIRIT NATIONAL PRAYER PILGRIMAGE FOR THE PLENARY COUNCIL:
People across the country are invited to participate in a national prayer pilgrimage as the Catholic Church in Australia prepares for the Second Assembly of the 5th Plenary Council of Australia in Sydney from 3-9th July 2022.
We pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and grace for the Members who will gather and for ourselves and the Church, that we may have the courage to follow where God is leading us.
Access Walking in the Spirit Prayer Resources at:
www.plenarycountil.catholic.org.au/walkinginthespirit
Mary MacKillop Australian Pilgrimage:
The Sisters of Saint Joseph have prepared an Australian Pilgrimage. “In the Footsteps of Mary MacKillop” commencing in Melbourne on 18th October, journeying through Victoria and South Australia and ending at Mary MacKillop Place, North Sydney on 29th October 2022. During the pilgrimage we visit many places associated with Mary MacKillop’s life and ministry.
I am happy to answer any questions and provide an itinerary and application form, and may be contacted at
National.pilgrimage@mmp.org.au or 02 891 24818.
Annie Bond rsj
Assistant Director-Responsible for Ministries.
JOB VACANCIES @ Our Lady Help of Christians Parish, Narre Warren.
PASTORAL WORKERS/SACRAMENT CO-ORDINATOR- We are looking to employ a person for five days a week (30 hours-which will include some evening and weekend work).
The successful applicant will be responsible for the preparation and management of the parish sacramental programs including Baptisms, First Reconciliation, First Eucharist and Confirmation.
This position forms part of the parish pastoral team and will be a support role to the Pastoral Associate, other pastoral work and general admin work as required.
For a copy of the Position Description, please contact the Parish Office via olhc#olhc.org.au or call 9704 7935.
To be eligible for this role, applicants must be up to date with COVID vaccinations and have Working With Children Check Card. Applicants should hold an Australia Residency/Citizenship.
Please email your resume to olhc@olhc.org.au addressed to the Parish Priest.
YOUTH MINISTER- We are looking to employ a Youth Minister for 12 hours a week on an initial 12-month contract. Ideally the successful applicant should demonstrate a commitment to the Catholic Faith.
The aim of the position is to bring increased life and faith to the various parish youth groups, whilst encouraging full involvement in the community life of the parish.
For a copy of the Position Description, please contact the Parish Office via olhc@olhc.org.au or call 9704 7935.
To be eligible for this role, applicants must be up to date with their COVID vaccinations and have Working With Children Check Card. Applicants should hold an Australian Residence/Citizenship.
Please email your resume to olhc@olhc.org.au addressed to the Parish Priest.
COME JOIN OUR PRAYER SHAWL GROUP: We next meet on Monday June 20th in the Annex of Our Lady Star of the Sea, Inverloch at 2:15pm. Newcomers are always welcome!
For enquiries please contact: Philippa Warby: 0408 331 340 Maureen Maartensz: 0407 055 447 Julie de Bondt: 0407 535 032
YARRA THEOLOGICAL UNION: YTU ENROLMENTS, online options available 20th June – 1st July 2022. www.ytu.edu.au or 03 989 03771
Study at Yarra Theological Union (YTU) Box Hill. We’re offering Undergraduate and Postgraduate awards of the University of Divinity. Equipping people in Schools, Hospitals and Churches and the Community.
MARY MACKILLOP HERITAGE CENTRE (MMHC) MARY MACKILLOP HERITAGE CENTRE OPEN DAY Acknowledging the Feat of the Sacred Heart Saturday 18th June, 2022 10:00 a.m. to 4:00pm
Mary MacKillop Walking Tour available @ 11am Mass in the Chapel @ 1pm
For further information and registering for the walk and mass call 03 9926 9300 or admin.mmhc@sosj.org.au
‘Cuppa with Mary’ When visiting Melbourne, please include a visit to the Mary MacKillop Museum that tells Mary and the SOSJ’s story. Entry is free. Do a walking tour of the Mary MacKillop Heritage trails and Mary’s place of birth. Consider organising a Parish group and have a ‘Cuppa with Mary’. Group bookings which include a presentation, tour and prayer reflection in the Chapel where Mary prayed, cost $20 per person. Contact Kate on 03 9926 9300 for a group booking.
Learn about the Mary MacKillop’s story and ministry through participation in a two-day program at the Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre. Titled Mary MacKillop “Daughter of Melbourne” in this program, you have opportunity to explore the Life and Spirit of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop as well as have a guided tour of places in Melbourne that were connected with Mary and the Sisters of Saint Joseph Victorian Story and time for personal reflection. While this is an opportunity to learn about and be touched by the life and spirit of Mary MacKillop, it is also an opportunity for you to explore and share the challenges and stirrings in your own heart as you respond with others to action today. You can access more information, obtain a brochure, and register for this two-day event.
Mary MacKillop Gift shop- With Easter coming up, please consider supporting the work of the Sisters of St. Joseph by purchasing a present from the Museum Gift Shop (communion and confirmation gifts, devotional items, Vatican Library collection, rosary beads, holding crosses, candles, cards, statues, crucifixes, books, and Peruvian handmade items).
Accommodation Specials- With Melbourne opening up again, book a stay at the Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre Accommodation in the heart of Melbourne. Contact Kate on 03 9926 9300.
PATHWAYS VICTORIA: Bishop Greg Bennet said: I join the Catholic Bishops of Victoria in our renewed and sincere apology to all victims of sexual abuse by clergy and Church personnel. We pledge ongoing commitment to ensure all those who have allegations of abuse have an appropriate independent process in order for them to tell their story in safety, and to have an appropriate pastoral response which respects their particular individual needs and circumstances. For further information about Pathways company and the new model is available in the Pathways website: www.pathwaysvictoria.com
ASSSEMBLY: PLENARY COUNCIL: Keep up with the latest Plenary news:
The Connection between the Plenary Council and the Synod of Bishops.
There has been some confusion amongst people about the Synod and the Plenary Council. In preparation for the 5th Plenary Council of Australia, we have been on a four-year journey of listening, dialogue and discerning what God is asking of us in Australia at this time.
Now Pope Francis is asking us to a similar thing, but together with the entire Church worldwide. As Christ’s church, we are all called to living in a synodal way, attentive to others and ready to walk alongside one another. In your parishes you will have already experienced aspects of living synodally as a faith community. The synodal journey is not something which ends with the Synod of Bishops meeting in Rome in 2023 but is meant to be the way in which we are to be disciples of Christ, bearing his Good News for the transformation of ourselves, the church and the world.
Bishop Shane Mackinlay (the Plenary Council’s Vice-President) is featured in a brief video (1.5 minutes) explaining the connection between the Plenary and the Synod of Bishops.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-JgRwx5NnQ
To watch the full video (6-minute version) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnz0DCXGZ10
Cry of the Earth the Social Justice Statement can be read on https://socialjustice.catholic.org.au/2021/06/24/social-justice-statement-2021-22/.
MISSAL ON LINE: ‘An App’ which Father Darren Howie finds very helpful is Universalis. This will allow you to follow the Daily Mass.
CARITAS AUSTRALIA:There is still time to support our global neighbours as they tackle the challenges of poverty.
Your generosity today can help create a better tomorrow for people living in some of the most remote and marginalised communities in the world.
All donations over $2 are 100% tax deductible.
Caritas Australia: www.caritas.org.au
CATHOLIC CARE: New self-help mental health service for parents, families and individuals. Teaching children and young people how to keep safe online (on how to use technology wisely) is important for their mental health and wellbeing.
But as a parent or carer, ensuring eSafety for kids and teens can feel overwhelming or unachievable.
Whether you’re worried about cyberbullying, privacy, online content, social media, or time spent using technology, there’s things parents and carers can do to help keep kids safe. To learn more please contact CatholicCare Victoria.
Aid to the Church in Need Australia; ACN is the Pontifical Foundation dedicated to supporting the suffering and persecuted Church. Our Brothers and sisters in Lebanon are suffering due to ongoing financial and political instability. As the body of Christ we called to support one another. Will you join us as we help them by providing food parcels to 500 needy families in the diocese of Baalbek, Lebanon? To read about the project, or to make an offering visit: www.aidtochurch.org/monthlyproject.
P.O. BOX 335, PENRITH NSW 2751
1800 101 201/ 02 9167 9517
We have been emailing and sending out important communications from the Diocese and if you would like to be involved and receive this information then please contact the Parish Office on 56 721 111 or email your details to wonthaggi@cdsale.org.au.
We are a Child Safe Parish. Any children, young persons and vulnerable adults have a right to feel safe and be safe. If you are concerned about any form of abuse, or believe that someone is at significant risk, you should immediately raise your concerns with one of our Parish Safeguarding Officers. Contact Kristine McRae via the Parish Office: 03 56 721 111 or St. Joseph’s School Safeguarding Officer 03 56 721 052. Take care, we are here to help.
If you are in need of urgent assistance, please phone eithe Father Darren Howie 0356 722 923 or Kristine on 03 56 72111 or 04999 15 784.
Father Darren Howie Mrs. Kristine McRae
Parish Priest Parish Secretary
St. Joseph’s Parish Wonthaggi