Newsletter - Friday, 1st August, 2025

Prayer

With parent/teacher meetings approaching, we pray:

"Gracious God, we thank you for the gift of education and the dedicated teachers and loving parents who guide our children.  We pray for a spirit of unity and collaboration between teachers and parents, that they may work together with understanding and compassion for the benefit of each student.  Grant them wisdom to discern each child's unique needs and the patience to nurture their growth.  May they be a source of encouragement and support, fostering a love of learning and a positive environment for all.  We ask this in your name. Amen."

From the Principals

Dear Parents,

While John is currently in Penshurst, we have had the privilege of stepping into the role of Acting Principal.  We’re grateful that John has still remained actively involved in key parts of our school life - supporting students through their Sacramental preparation and taking part in our recent School Advisory Council meeting.  His ongoing guidance and support, particularly for us both in our leadership roles, continues to strengthen our team and school community.  We wish John all the very best in this new endeavour and know he will be valued highly at St. Joseph's Penshurst.

As part of the Principal Recruitment Process, parents are invited to attend a meeting on Wednesday, 6th August from 2.45 p.m.-3.15 p.m. with Janet Claassen, the Education Consultant, from Catholic Education Ballarat.  Janet will be facilitating the Principal Appointment process for St. Malachy's and would like to share the process with you.  A survey will be sent out to all parents following the meeting to gather feedback from parents to guide focus questions and criteria for Principal candidate interviews.

It’s been a pleasure to work alongside our dedicated staff and enthusiastic students during this time and we look forward to what the term will bring!

- Gorgia and Sherryn

2026 Transition

This term, the Year 5 students will have the opportunity to attend the Edenhope Kindergarten and meet with next year's Foundation students.  On Tuesday, September 9th, the Year 5 & 6 students will host an open afternoon where we encourage families of 2026 Foundation students (both returning and new) and any interested community members to view our school and meet our 2026 student leaders and teachers.  An invitation will be sent out shortly.  If you are aware of any new families who might be interested, please advise the school.

Sacraments

Fourteen students from Years 2 to 6 will celebrate their First Communion and Confirmation on Sunday, 10th August @ 11 a.m., St Malachy's Church.

All families are invited to attend and celebrate this milestone with us.

From the Sports Desk

The Kowree Athletics is fast approaching.  All students from Foundation to Year 6 will participate in up to seven track and field events.  We would greatly appreciate any parent assistance on the day which may involve helping groups move from one event to another, or timekeeping running races.  If you are able to help, please let Sherryn know as soon as possible.  Thank you.

Around the rooms

Foundation - Mrs. Craig

This term is already shaping up to be an exciting one in the Foundation classroom.  We are learning all about the world around us and have already begun exploring the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.  We have started the novel 'Fern Gully' and are very intrigued to know what will happen in this magical forest.  But most of all, we are very excited to celebrate our hundredth day of school on Thursday, 7th of August.  We will be dressing up as 100 year olds on this day. 

Year 1/2 - Mrs. Stringer

Year 1/2 Class Update – Welcome Back, Mrs. Stringer!
While Mrs. Stringer was away completing her Sounds-Write training, the Year 1/2 students had a fantastic time with their wonderful relief teacher, Mrs. Freeman!  The classroom was buzzing with excitement as they read and recited classic Aussie poems by C.J. Dennis, explored the states and capitals of Australia during Inquiry, and continued the magical journey through The Faraway Tree.  In Maths, students reviewed number, addition, and subtraction - setting them up perfectly for new learning in Term 3.

Mrs. Stringer is thrilled to be back in the classroom and can’t wait to bring Sounds-Write into our literacy block.  This term promises to be full of fun, discovery and new challenges across all learning areas.

Important Homework Update:
This term, we will be trialling a new approach to homework.  Spelling lists will no longer be sent home each week. Instead, we ask that students read for at least 15 minutes every night.  From time to time, students may also be given some maths tasks or fun literacy-based games to complete at home.

Let’s get ready for another amazing term of learning together!

Year 3/4 - Mrs. Robinson

This week in Year 3/4, we have been learning about Australia.  Our class has been reading the book "Are we there yet?" written by Alison Lester.  The book has taken our class travelling all around Australia.  We have  marked our journey on our own maps.  We have been researching different landmarks of Australia.  We have all chosen a landmark from around Australia to write an Information report.

Charlie - I have been looking at Darwin.  Darwin has pools and beaches because it is hot.Lucy- Kangaroo Island has some of the rarest wildflowers in the world.

Codey - The Great Ocean Road is the largest war memorial in the world.

Harriett - The Great Barrier Reef is bigger than New Zealand.

In Maths, we have been learning addition and subtraction using different strategies.  Charlie and Stevie-Belle like using the MAB blocks to add and subtract.  Edie likes to add and subtract using the algorithm strategy.  Indie likes using the bar model to help add and subtract.  We have also continued to work hard in learning our times tables.  In Inquiry, we have all been colouring in a jigsaw piece of a giant map of Australia.

- Written by the Year 3/4 class

Year 5/6 - Ms. Simpson

Term 3 has the older student learning about Hospitality and what it takes to be a good host, or a good guest and develop an understanding of why hospitality is an important part of the Catholic religion.  In Maths, we are studying multiplication and division (finally putting all that rote learning of times-tables to practical use!).  We develop an understanding of ways to mentally solve problems and then we learn written methods.  In English, we will be reading and writing poems this term.  Immersing ourselves in Banjo Paterson, Henry Lawson, maybe even some Shakespeare!!  As we develop our understanding of how poems can be structured, and how figurative language is used, we will delve into writing our own poems.  In Inquiry, we will be learning about Economics, including the difference between needs and wants (a lifelong journey!!), saving, expenses, interest and maybe even a play in the sharemarket (no guarantee this will save you money on the weekend!)

Pie drive fundraiser reminder

Reminder that order forms and money need to be returned to the office by Friday, 1st August.  $5 from every item ordered will be donated back to the school.  Your orders will be ready for collection on Friday, 15th August between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Parent/teacher interviews - 5th August

Time slots are now open now on PAM for parent/teacher interviews.  We have done our best to provide several options, so please have a look and book in to see your child's class teacher.  If you are unable to meet at the given times, please organise an alternate time.  Interviews can be done via phone in some circumstances.  These meetings provide an opportunity for discussion about your child's progress, or any concerns which you as parents or the teachers may have.  Education of a child is a partnership between teachers and parents to provide the best opportunities for your child to experience their own success.  As a staff, we really look forward to these conversations to support both your child and yourselves.

Mum's cuppa - Thursday, 7th @ 2.30 p.m.

It's time to put the kettle on and catch up so let's do it next Thursday, 7th August from 2.30 p.m. onwards and at the end of the school day, you're welcome to take your bus travelling child/ren home with you instead of travelling home on the bus.

If you know of anyone who might be thinking of enrolling their child/ren in 2026, you're welcome to bring them along and they can check us out; littlies are welcome too.

 If they have any questions they might like to ask, they're welcome to stay on after the school day has ended and have a chat to Sherryn or Gorgia.  Our door is always open for a cuppa, sneak a peek and a chat on any day.

From Carine - Mental Health & Wellbeing

Helping our children to manage conflict
Conflict is a normal part of growing up.  Whether it’s a disagreement over toys, turns on the playground, or misunderstandings between friends, children will inevitably face conflict.  As parents and caregivers, you play a critical role in teaching them how to navigate these moments constructively.

Why conflict resolution matters
Learning to manage conflict helps children build important life skills like empathy, communication, self-regulation, and problem-solving.  According to a study published in BMC Psychology, there is a direct link between effective conflict management and life satisfaction, demonstrating that conflict resolution fosters healthier relationships and promotes emotional well-being in young people.  

Five ways to support your child in managing conflict

1. Model Calm Communication
   Children learn by watching.  Demonstrate how to handle frustration calmly.  Show them how to use respectful language and listen actively, even when you disagree.
2. Teach "I" Statements
   Encourage your child to express feelings using “I” statements (e.g., “I feel upset when you don’t share with me”) rather than blaming others. This reduces defensiveness and opens the door to honest conversation.
3. Role-Play Common Scenarios
   Practice makes progress. Create simple role-play situations to rehearse how your child might respond in a conflict.  This can make them feel more confident and prepared when real situations arise.
4. Focus on Empathy
   Ask your child how they think the other person might feel and why. Helping them to see different perspectives fosters compassion and can de-escalate tense situations.
5. Encourage Problem-Solving
   Guide your child in brainstorming fair solutions that work for everyone.  Ask questions like, “What do you think we could do to make this better?” or “What would be a fair way to fix this?”

When to Step In
While we want children to learn independence, they sometimes need adult help—especially if the conflict involves bullying, aggression, or repeated distress.  Support your child by being a safe place to talk and helping them navigate these situations and inform the school if it happens continuously.

By teaching and modelling healthy conflict resolution, you're giving your child the tools they need not just for school, but for life.

Recommended Resources
SchoolTV – https://smedenhope.catholic.schooltv.me/sites/default/files/editions-resources/sibling-relationships/Sibling_Relationships_FS10.pdf
Kids Helpline: Resolving Conflict – https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/helping-kids-handle-conflict, https://kidshelpline.com.au/teens/issues/ways-deal-conflict
Article - Liu, Y., Zeng, B. & Chang, L. Examining the links between sense of belonging, conflict resolution skills, emotional intelligence, and life satisfaction in Chinese universities. BMC Psychol 13, 431 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40359-025-02742-9
Big Life Journal - article below

Child safety

On Wednesday,  we practised a Lockdown drill.  This involves students and teachers securing themselves within their classroom with lights out, doors locked and remaining quiet and calm, until the 'threat' is removed.  It was discussed with students that this threat may include bees, snakes, or perhaps a person.

When these practices occur, it is common for lots of 'what if' questions to be asked.  It is explained to all students that firstly any emergency practice is so that all adults know what is expected of them and can provide the best care for students in such situations.  Secondly, the likelihood of such a threat is very small, and that emergency services would be on the scene very quickly.  Lastly, that the adults are responsible for the care of the students and students can trust that we will do our best to ensure their safety in any situation.  We then stop the 'what if' questions as we cannot answer all of them and it tends to escalate to unrealistic scenarios.

 If you have questions, or are unsure how to answer your child's questions, please contact us so we can help you with answering them. 

The Stand Up Project

Are you a parent or teacher unsure how to support a young person impacted by bullying?

Join us for a FREE webinar hosted by Dr. Zach Greig — Founder of The Stand Up Project, internationally recognised bullying prevention expert (and proud dad) — and Amanda Marshall, Founder of the Youth Engagement Project, former teacher, and youth engagement specialist who are here to help.

Gain expert insights and step-by-step strategies to talk with and support a young person impacted by bullying.

🗓️ Date: Wednesday, 27 August 2025

🕒 Time: 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM

📍 Location: Online (link provided upon registration)

💬 Let’s work together to build a culture where every young person feels safe, supported, and empowered.

Register and reserve your free spot today - spaces are limited!

Grampians Health’s Community Advisory Committee

Seen the film @ Balmoral K-12 Community College

There will be an option for children to be supervised if needed.

RSVP’s and further information can be made to leanne.dillon@education.vic.gov.au, 0475 961 545 or via the Balmoral K-12 Community College Facebook page. 

What's coming up this Term?

• Tuesday, 5th August - Parent/Teacher interviews
• Thursday, 7th August - Foundations' 100th day of school
• Thursday, 7th August - Mum's cuppa and Sneak a Peek @ 2.30 p.m.
• Sunday, 10th August - Eucharist/Confirmation combined sacrament - shared lunch
• Friday, 22nd August - Book Week parade
• Wednesday, 27th August - Kowree Athletics (Year F to 6) @ Edenhope
• Wednesday, 3rd September 
• Friday, 5th September - Fathers' Day celebration
• Wednesday, 10th September - Little Desert Athletics @ Stawell (Years 3-6 qualifying students only)
• Thursday, 18th September - Footy Colours Day
• Thursday, 18th September - Last day of term for students
• Friday, 19th September - Staff P.D. Structured Literacy - PUPIL FREE DAY
  

St. Malachy's Mass times are:
1st Sunday: 11.15 a.m.
2nd Sunday: 11.15 a.m.
3rd Sunday: 11.15 a.m.
4th Sunday: 11.15 a.m.
5th Sunday: 11.15 a.m.

St. Malachy's welcomes everyone to join us.