Newsletter - Friday, 22nd August, 2025
Prayer for the world today
Father God, we pray for our world today.
We pray for peace and hope to abound.
Many are affected by natural disasters: floods, droughts and forest fires.
Many are struggling with conflict, poverty and the global food crisis.
O Lord, we pray for your provision, peace and protection.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
From the Principals
Dear Families,
What a fantastic week it has been! We are already halfway through the term.
On Wednesday, the 27th of August (next week), the Kowree Athletics Day will be held here in Edenhope. Everyone is welcome from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Edenhope College will have their canteen open for parents and students are to pack their snacks and lunches into their bags. Unless parents escort their own child/ren to the canteen, students will not have the opportunity to go to the canteen on their own. We are still looking for a few more volunteers to help with timekeeping the running races, so please let us know if you are eager to help out in any way. Any assistance is greatly appreciated.
Barb will be away next week completing some training, so please be aware there may be slight delays with phone texts, calls and office responses. We will do our best to keep communication flowing. If there are any changes to your child’s transport arrangements, please notify the school as soon as possible. Early notice helps us with smooth organisation and ensures the safety of all students.
From Wednesday next week, students' artworks will be displayed in the Red Tail Gallery for two weeks only. You will be able to see a range of pieces, from paintings to sculptures. The gallery opening hours are Wednesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Enjoy your weekend,
- Gorgia + Sherryn
Ghana Beat my Drum - Jonas Tandoh
Last Friday, we were lucky to have a visit from Jonas Tandoh who showed us some music culture from Ghana. The students loved having a sing and dance and some were lucky enough to even try playing some instruments. There's a video on our School Facebook page showing the highlights if you want to check it out.
Book Week 2025
Students and staff arrived dressed in their various outfits portraying so many characters to celebrate Book Week. Parents, siblings and grandparents came along to watch the circle parade and enjoyed seeing the students. We had Slinky the Dog from Toy Story stretched across 2 classroom photos so the tail end, Mrs. Robinson could join her Year 3/4 class and the front end, Ms. Simpson could join her 5/6 class. Enjoy the mixed bucket of pictures from this morning.
Father's Day celebration
Fathers, Grandfathers and Uncles are invited to St. Malachy's School to celebrate Father's day on Friday, 5th September from 9-10 a.m.
Fun activities and delicious smoko provided.
2026 Information/Transition evening
All families of 2026 Foundation students and any families that are interested in having a look at the school are invited to St. Malachy’s for afternoon tea on Tuesday, 9th September, 4:30 p.m. The Year 5 & 6 leaders are looking forward to providing you afternoon tea and some activities. Formal invitations will be sent shortly.
Year 5 and 6 poetry
We have been immersing ourselves in poetry this term, from fun Roald Dahl rhymes to Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18 (how shall I compare thee?) and some Australian classics like Clancy of the Overflow.
Poetry uses many literary devices like similes and metaphors, and of course more abstract descriptive writing. Here we have taken simple English phrases and turned them into poetry just for you!
In English we say, “It’s over!” But in poetry, we say…
‘Your laughter still echoes in my ears
I remember when we fell of our bikes and shed many tears
I can see the hollowness in your eyes,
Our friendship only found in photos’
‘As I am feeling hollow the tears are rolling down my cheeks
my heart is shattered into a million pieces.’
‘The days when we see each other
Our heart breaks as we leave for another
We don't say good bye
But we remember the memories that we saw through our eyes.’
In English we say…’I love you’, but in poetry, we say…
‘There will always be a part reserved in my heart
A place just for you, a place just for us.’
And I hope you do to
When I hear you speak
I wish I could do over the first time we met
When I see you walk by it makes me sad
Knowing that we are not walking hand by hand
I love you to the moon, I would do anything for you
I can’t get you out of my sight. Come to think of it you're bright
It makes me cry, Even I’d risk to die
To save your heart and soul. Our love lives on
Let’s share our song.
In English we say…’I’m Sorry’, but in poetry, we say…
My heart aches as you pass by me in the moonlight;
I know that I've done something wrong;
I will try to strive to do better;
But there are always consequences.
In English we say…I’m tired’, but in poetry, we say
‘I feel the task coming to the end as the clock strikes twelve my eyes are heavy and life has become bleary’
My body begs for the night;
But I can’t deny the morning light;
My eyelids try to flutter shut;
And by the night I've had enough.
I'm Tired
All is over the work is done
finally the rest may come,
we're all run out
and after rest has gone the play may come again.
From Carine - Mental Health & Wellbeing
Calm morning routines for school
A calm morning routine is beneficial for children because it fosters a sense of security, reduces stress, and promotes better focus and emotional stability, leading to a more positive and productive day. It also helps children develop crucial life skills like time management and independence.
Knowing what to expect each morning can alleviate the anxiety that comes from feeling rushed or unprepared. A predictable routine allows children to start their day calmly, which can set a positive tone for the hours ahead. Morning routines teach children valuable life skills such as time management, personal hygiene, and organisation. These habits, once established, can last a lifetime and contribute to long-term well-being.
A calm, structured start to the day allows children to arrive at school feeling ready to learn. Eating a nutritious breakfast and having time to gather their thoughts before the school day begins can enhance concentration and productivity.
Routines provide a sense of security, which can be especially beneficial for children navigating changes or challenges in their lives. Knowing what’s coming next helps them feel more grounded and less overwhelmed.
Tips for a Successful Morning Routine
- Prepare the Night Before: Encourage children to pack their school bags, lay out their uniform, and set out anything they’ll need for the next day. This minimises last-minute scrambles in the morning.
- Set a Regular Wake-Up Time: A consistent wake-up time helps regulate your child’s body clock, making it easier for them to feel alert and ready to start the day.
- Include Time for Breakfast: A nutritious breakfast is essential for energy and concentration. Select balanced options like whole-grain cereals, fruits, or eggs to fuel their morning.
- Create a Checklist: A simple, visual checklist of morning tasks - such as brushing teeth, getting dressed, and putting on shoes - can help younger children stay on track and feel a sense of accomplishment.
- Add a Moment of Joy: Whether it’s listening to their favourite song, sharing a cuddle, or saying an affirmation like, “Today is going to be a great day,” small positive rituals can boost your child’s mood and confidence.
Every family is different, and mornings can sometimes be hectic. The key is consistency and patience (difficult when everything goes wrong😊). Starting small and building a routine over time can make mornings feel less overwhelming and more enjoyable for both children and parents.
By fostering these healthy habits, you’re not just helping your child have a better day at school, you’re equipping them with tools for a lifetime of well-being and setting yourself up for a calm start to your own day.
Here are some websites to visit if you want more information:
https://www.additudemag.com/adhd-morning-routine-stress-free-kids
REMINDER: Exclusive, one-off event is fast approaching and we’d love to see your families benefit from the insights of two of Australia’s leading experts, Susan McLean and Dr Michael Carr-Gregg. They will share invaluable insights on how to empower young people to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.
WEBINAR: Digital Media Literacy & Safety (Part III)
DATE: Wednesday, 3 September 2025
TIME: 7:30 p.m.
Topics in this webinar include:
- New Social Media Regulations
- Digital Footprint and Reputation
- Screen Time and Brain Development
- Parental Controls
**** IMPORTANT ****
This webinar will not be available to replay later, so we encourage you register in time by following this link:
http://smedenhope.catholic.schooltv.me/webinar/east-coast-digital-media-literacy-safety-part-III
or scan the QR code on the poster.
Child safety
What's coming up this Term?
- Wednesday, 27th August - Kowree Athletics (Year F to 6) @ Edenhope
- 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.