PRINCIPAL NEWS

Dear Parents,

As parents we can all relate to that time when our child’s behaviour was not what you hoped it would be. It may have been the tantrum in the supermarket, public defiance, an inappropriate comment, or maybe even some action that you did not believe that your child was capable of. Can you recall what your own personal feelings were at these times as the parent?

Imagine now what it would be like as a parent to have a child who has a disability, be it physical or intellectual, that meant that your child was more prone to these types of outbursts than others. For these children there is no intent in their behaviour. They are just doing the best they know how in that particular situation until, through understanding, teaching, scaffolding and modelling they can be shown a better way. At times it can be easier to judge than to seek to understand.

Being a parent is the most important, rewarding and difficult job we will ever undertake. Having a child with special needs adds an extra dimension to the complicated role of parenting. Maybe it’s opportune before passing judgement to attempt to walk a mile in someone else’s shoes. At St Catherine’s we are here for all students. We are very committed to our Design Principle of 100% of the students 100% of the time and as a proudly Catholic school we welcome all into our wonderful community. I know, personally, I commenced in education many years ago with a firm hope that I could attempt to make a difference for all children in my care

Camps

The Grade 5 students are enjoying a wonderful camp at Sovereign Hill.  Although a bit chilly, the weather has generally been kind to us.  I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the staff for attending the camps, it is a huge commitment to take time away from their own families to take the children away.  A special thanks to Jess Ornsby and Anna Viney for the preparation they put in to ensure that the camp was a success.

NAPLAN

Last week the students in Grade 3 and 5 participated in their Government Administered NAPLAN tests.  I congratulate all of the students for giving their best effort.  NAPLAN tests are a point in time assessment of your child’s progress, and whilst they give us trends that we can use for development and growth as a school, I encourage you to view your child’s individual result in conjunction with other assessments from your child’s teacher. A big thanks to our Curriculum Coordinators Vicky Donlan and Rebecca Cox for coordinating the tests.

Insight SRC

As part of our ongoing focus to develop and improve as a school we will be completing Insight SRC surveys over the next few weeks.  All staff, students in grades 3-6, and a random selection of parents will be asked to complete the survey.  We will use this valuable feedback for our future planning.

Mother’s Day Stall – Friday 6 May

Thanks to the Parents and Friends for running the Mother’s Day Stall on Friday 6 of May. It was a wonderful opportunity for the students.

Drop Off / Pick Up

A reminder that classes commence at 8.50am.  Gates will be locked at 8.50am and children arriving after this time will need to come through the Office to be signed in. 

Parents need to ensure that they have appropriate arrangements organised for their children at the end of the day, particularly students that are waiting for siblings from SFX.

COVID Procedures

Listed below are the most recent procedures;

• Camps and Excursions - Camps and Excursions are now able to proceed. Information will be forwarded to parents as the dates become closer.  Please note that it will be only school staff that attend the camps.
• Student Drop Off – Parents are welcome to walk their children into the school; however, we ask that you drop your child off at the door and please do not enter the buildings.
• Carline Pick-up – This remains the same as has been in place. Parents collecting children in cars need to enter the driveway and follow around through the basketball courts.  The line will then split into an A-k line and an L-Z line that you enter according to your surname.  The children will be waiting for you.
• School Office – The Office is open, however, if it is not essential to come onsite then please email info@stcberwick.catholic.edu.au or phone 9702-1466. All adults coming indoors must wear a mask.
• Walking Pick-up – Parents walking to pick up their children are asked to remain at the rebound wall area and the students will come up to you for the safety of all. I remind parents to cross the road and collect your child, please do not call them across from the other side.
• Meetings with Teachers – Remain by appointment only and parents will need to sign in at the Office with proof of vaccination and wear a mask when indoors.

Please see the new RAT procedure information for students and families contained within this newsletter. 

Enrolments

We are now taking new enrolments for 2023.  We have already been experiencing a demand for spots. If you are an existing family and have not yet completed your 2023 enrolment form please do so asap in order to confirm a place. Enrolments are now open to all. If you know of anyone wanting to enrol at St Catherine’s please encourage them to contact the Office and book a tour.

Important 2023 Prep Enrolment Dates for Your Diary,

School Fees

Families who hold an eligible Health Care Concession Card, may be eligible for CSEF (Camp, Sports and Excursion Funding).  If eligible, this would also entitle families to make an application for a fee remission, which effectively would see a significant reduction of fees to be paid for the year.  For more information, please do not hesitate to contact Margaret Lonergan in the Office.

For any queries, either ring Margaret Lonergan on 9702 1466 or email accounts@stcberwick.catholic.edu.au

Contact Address

If you have changed your address recently, could you please contact the school office on 97021466 or alternatively info@stcberwick.catholic.edu.au

School Closure Dates

Listed below are the 2022 School Closure Dates for your diary;

Kind Regards,

Simon