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Dear Parents and Carers,
As we journey through the season of Lent, we are reminded of the importance of reflection, renewal, and growth. Lent is a time for spiritual preparation, where we reflect on our faith, seek forgiveness, and make meaningful sacrifices in preparation for Easter. It encourages us to embrace kindness, humility, and generosity, teaching us valuable lessons that extend beyond the season itself.
In our school community, we have taken this time to deepen our understanding of Lent through prayer, scripture, and acts of service. The children have been actively engaged in various activities that highlight the values of compassion and self-discipline. From classroom discussions to liturgy and charitable initiatives, our students have shown a remarkable commitment to embracing the true meaning of Lent.
As we approach the end of Term 1, we take a moment to celebrate the achievements and learning experiences of our students. This term has been filled with enthusiasm, dedication, and growth in all areas of learning. A big congratulations to our Kindergarten students who have completed their first term of school.
Some of the exciting learning opportunities this term have included:
- STEM Group: Our students involved in this initiative have commenced exploring hands-on science and technology projects, sparking curiosity and innovation. We look forward to following their progress as the year progresses.
- Creative Arts: Our students have taken part in dance lessons with Mrs Carr and our Choir is preparing for the upcoming Choir showcase at the Civic Theatre next term.
- Sport: We’ve had many students participate in sporting trials and have progressed to higher levels. Congratulations to all of our students who have excelled in their chosen sport.
- Learning: Students engaged in discussions, reflections and challenged daily to achieve the best that they can. We are incredibly proud of our students' accomplishments and grateful for the support of our dedicated teachers and parents.
- Harmony Day and Liturgy Celebration: Last week we also came together as a community to celebrate Harmony Day, recognising and embracing the diverse cultures within our school. Through engaging activities and thoughtful discussions, students reflected on the importance of inclusivity and respect for all. Additionally, our Liturgy Celebration provided a meaningful opportunity to gather in prayer, strengthening our connection to faith and unity. Thanks Mrs Clare Miller for organising this event for our students.
- Excursions: Learning was extended beyond the classroom. Congratulations to our Year 6 students who attended the Combined Schools Anzac Service at Civic Theatre on Tuesday. They did a wonderful job representing our school.
As we move forward into the next term, we encourage everyone to continue embracing the spirit of learning, growth, and faith. May this Lenten season be a time of renewal and inspiration for all members of our school community.
Enjoy the holiday break and the time with family and friends. We look forward to an even more enriching and fulfilling Term 2!
Best wishes,
Mrs Sonya Boslem
Principal
Fifth Sunday of Lent
This week’s Gospel is from John 8: 1-11
“While Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. Early in the morning he came again to the temple. All the people came to him, and he sat down and began to teach them. The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and, making her stand before all of them, they said to him, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery. Now in the law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” They said this to test him, so that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground. When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” And once again he bent down and wrote on the ground. When they heard it, they went away, one by one, beginning with the elders, and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him. Jesus straightened up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, sir.” And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you. Go your way, and from now on do not sin again.”
Jesus prayed for his own sake and that others might believe through his prayer and his example. Prayer is never a solitary exercise, even when we pray alone. It brings us in touch with the body of Christ, of Jesus who is risen from death, and of Jesus present in all his people. Prayer affects the lives of others; affecting how we live together, asking to be unbound and live in freedom like Lazarus. Knowing that others pray with me yet alone gives a sense of purpose to our prayer.
Sacramental Program
Last Thursday, some of our students came together with children from other schools in our parish, at St Philip’s to make their First Reconciliation. At the ceremony the children were asked to light a candle in the shape of a cross which is a very fitting symbol in the season of Lent and leading into Easter. Congratulations to all the children.
Term 1 Liturgies and Celebrations:
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Week 11: |
Holy week Celebrations - Thursday 10th April 9:15am Friday 11th April - Parish Mass - Kindergarten & Year 6 |
Holy Week Liturgy: We remember…Jesus’ Journey
Please join us on Thursday at 9:15am as we remember Jesus’ journey of the Cross. Our liturgy helps us to remember and reflect on the events that took Jesus from his condemnation to being laid in the tomb. We will then leave the hall in a quiet, reflective way, and continue the Easter story with our Resurrection Liturgy in class on our first day back next term where we will rejoice in the risen Lord.
Project Compassion
Project Compassion boxes from classrooms will be collected next Thursday 10th April. These funds combined with the funds raised from our Big Water Walk will be sent off to Caritas as our donation. Any further donations need to be in by Thursday 10th April. Thank you for your generous donations once again this year.
Feast Day
The Feast of Saints Philip and James is celebrated on the 3rd May each year. As a St James community we will celebrate his feast day on Friday 2nd May with a combined Parish/school mass at 9:15 am in the hall. The children will then have a sausage sizzle for lunch, which can be ordered through Flexischools. After lunch we will play tabloid games on the oval for all the children. We look forward to celebrating our feast day as a community of faith.
Mrs Patricia Miller
Religious Coordinator
In this edition of SchoolTV - Cyber Safety
Young people today are growing up in an increasingly connected world where technology is part of their everyday lives –– for learning, socialising, and entertainment. While the digital world offers enormous benefits, it also comes with serious risks. From cyberbullying and online predators to inappropriate content and screen time concerns, navigating the online environment can be challenging for young people and their families.
Cybersafety is not just about blocking access –– it's about empowering young people with the knowledge and skills they need to use technology responsibly and safely. This includes understanding privacy settings, recognising scams, and developing healthy digital habits. At the same time, it's important for parents and caregivers to stay informed, have open and judgement-free conversations with their children, and lead by example through positive online behaviour.
In today's digital age, safeguarding a child's wellbeing must also include protecting their online life. This edition of SchoolTV will help you better understand the digital landscape your child is navigating and offer practical strategies to help them stay safe, confident and in control online.
We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this edition of SchoolTV.
Here is the link to the Cyber Safety edition of SchoolTV
https://kotarasouth.catholic.schooltv.me/newsletter/cybersafety-au
ICAS
We know our students are amazing, so we’re giving them the opportunity to showcase and celebrate their talents in the world-renowned ICAS competition this year.
What is ICAS?
ICAS is an online academic competition that gives students the opportunity to challenge their higher order thinking and problem-solving skills in English, Mathematics, Science, Writing, Spelling Bee, and Digital Technologies.
Every student who participates is celebrated and recognised with a printed certificate in each subject area, and an online results report to track development each year. Top performers are eligible for one of the highly coveted ICAS medals.
To learn more about this year’s exciting ICAS competition, visit: (icasassessments.com/products-icas/)
How to participate in ICAS
If you wish for your child to participate in ICAS this year, please go to the Parent Portal to sign up to your chosen subject areas using the link and code below.
Registration for all subject areas closes on Monday 28 July at 11:59pm.
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Sign up here |
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Access code |
VSP042 |
This year, our students can elect to sit the following assessments:
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Subject |
Sitting Date |
Cost (AU$) |
Exam dates are subject to change |
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Digital Technologies |
4-8 Aug |
$20.95 |
7th August |
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Writing |
4-8 Aug |
$24.95 |
6th August |
|
English |
11-15 Aug |
$20.95 |
14th August |
|
Science |
18-22 Aug |
$20.95 |
20th August |
|
Spelling Bee |
18-22 Aug |
$20.95 |
21St August |
|
Mathematics |
25-29Aug |
$20.95 |
27th or 28th August |
Please note, we cannot facilitate refunds or make alterations as all money is paid directly to ICAS Assessments.
Read the terms and conditions here: (icasassessments.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/2023-ICAS-Assessments-Schools-TsCs_S2023.V6-1.pdf). Please see further information regarding ICAS given as an attachment below.
Staff Professional Learning Day-Monday31st March
On Monday, 31st March, the staff at St James' Primary School had the privilege of engaging in a Professional Learning Day with Mr. Rob Vingerhoets, a renowned education consultant specialising in Mathematics. The day was dedicated to enhancing our teaching strategies through the exploration of open-ended tasks designed to elevate the skillsets and abilities of all our students.
Mr. Vingerhoets guided us through a series of interactive and thought-provoking activities, demonstrating the power of open-ended tasks in fostering fluency, understanding, reasoning and problem-solving skills. Our staff found the sessions incredibly valuable and enjoyed the opportunity to learn with and from Rob again.
As a result of this enriching experience, we are excited to incorporate more open-ended tasks into our daily mathematics lessons. We believe this approach will not only make learning more engaging for our students but also help them develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts.
We look forward to seeing the positive impact of these new strategies in our classrooms and are committed to continuing our professional growth to provide the best education for our students.
Happy Holidays and Easter
As this is the final newsletter of the term and before we break for holidays, I wanted to wish all our families a safe and blessed break. Enjoy some down time. My hope is that everyone gets to go a little slower and has the time and energy to appreciate the small things that makes us happy. Happy Easter everyone!
All the best,Mrs Debra Petersen
Assistant Principal
The focus of our PB4L lessons will be on being respectful, responsible and resilient in all places, at all times. Each week we will look at what positive behaviour looks like in areas across the school. In Weeks 9 & 10 we will look at respectful, responsible and resilient behaviour on afternoon dismissal line and on the bus. We will continue to use the language of our matrix above, while outlining what this looks like in each area. We would encourage you to also use this language at home.
Kiaras
Last year we reviewed the use of Kiara stickers and the acknowledgement of positive milestones at St James. As a school we are committed to reinforcing positive behaviour within our school under our PB4L matrix. Positive reinforcement acknowledges and rewards students’ efforts and achievements, leading to a supportive learning environment that encourages continuous improvement and active participation.
In PB4L, positive reinforcement can take various forms, such as a thumbs up, verbal praise, or tangible rewards. Earlier in the term all classes were introduced to the Kiara Milestone Rewards that we will be using this year. All staff are focusing on recognising positive behaviour and tracking this through our PB4L app. Students are instantly recognised for displaying positive behaviour. These milestones will reset each year. Many students have already shared this with their parents as they are beginning to accumulate Kiaras and reaching the early milestone of 10 Kiaras.
Positive Behaviour for Learning (PB4L)
Positive Behaviour for Learning (PB4L) is an evidence-based framework that aims to improve student behaviour and academic outcomes by promoting positive behaviour and creating a supportive school environment. The key principles of PB4L include:
- Clear Expectations: Establishing clear, consistent behaviour expectations for all students.
- Teaching and Reinforcing: Explicitly teaching and reinforcing positive behaviours.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Using data to monitor progress and guide decision-making.
- Collaborative Approach: Involving the whole school community in promoting positive behaviour.
Through PB4L, we focus on recognising and rewarding positive behaviour, which helps to create a positive and inclusive school culture. This approach not only reduces disruptive behaviour but also enhances students' social-emotional skills and academic performance.
If you have any questions or would like more information about our PB4L initiative and mixed peer groups, please feel free to contact Mrs Miller or Mrs Boslem.
Polding Swimming Championships
Here are a few photos of Isabel S at Polding earlier this week. She had a fantastic meet and came away with 1st in the junior girls 200IM!
Isabel's other results include:
1st junior girls 50m breaststroke
2nd junior girls 50m butterfly
3rd junior girls 50m backstroke
3rd junior girls 50m freestyle
What an incredible effort Issy!
The junior girls relay team dropped 9 seconds and came 6th overall! They swam so well! What an amazing experience for them all.
Jonah T had a great day and was really pleased with his results… 4 new PBs, some by 3 seconds and a 5th overall in butterfly.
Congratulations to Thomas I who competed at the Polding Swimming Championships in the Junior Boys backstroke event.
On Wednesday Isabel, Tilly and Thomas went to Sydney Olympic Pool to compete in the Polding Swimming Championships. Thomas competed in the 50m backstroke and placed 8th overall. Tilly competed in the junior girls 4x50 freestyle relay and placed 6th overall. Isabel competed in the junior 4x50 girls relay, the 200m IM, 50m backstroke, 50m breaststroke, 50m butterfly, 50m freestyle and won countless medals.
Competing at Sydney Olympic Pool was really nerve-racking but an exciting experience because some famous athletes have swum there. Isobel is now going to compete in the State Swimming Championships.
We had an amazing time, and we all did a PB (personal best). There was some very tough competition from all the dioceses and all of them wanted to win so badly.
By Tilly and Thomas in 4B
Diocesan Winter Sport Trials
Last Friday, Evie L, Zoe D, Maisie E (netball), Anna D (soccer), Ace H and Patrick J (league) attended the Diocesan Winter Sport Trials around Newcastle. Congratulations to all our athletes for making it to this high level. We would like to especially congratulate Maisie, Anna and Ace for their selection into the dio team for their respective sport. They will attend Polding trials in early May.
Regional Touch Football Trials
Early next term, students from St James will be participating in the Regional Touch Football trials in Wallsend. We would like to wish Lachlan, Jaxson, Blainey, Harper and Hazel the best of luck for their upcoming trials.
Polding AFL
Next week, Harry K will attend the Polding AFL Trials in Warners Bay. We would like to wish Harry K the best of luck for his upcoming trials.
Athletics Carnival Information
Mrs Tegan Fry & Miss Renee Pettet
Sports Organisers
| Monday 7th April |
Out of Uniform Day - Bring Easter Eggs & chocolates for raffle |
| Tuesday 8th April |
Polding AFL Rugby Union 7's Gala |
| Thursday 10th April |
Holy Week Liturgy NSWPSSA Swimming |
| Friday 11th April |
Parish Mass 9:15am - Kindergarten & Year 6 Easter Raffle drawn Last Day of Term 1 |
| Monday 28th April |
First Day Term 2 ANZAC Liturgy 2:10pm Regional Touch Football Trials |
| Thursday May 1st |
Knights 9's Gala - Charlestown |
| Friday 2nd May |
St James Feast Day Mass 9:15am Feast Day Tabloid Games & Sausage Sizzle Polding Winter Sports |
| Thursday 8th May |
Mother's Day Liturgy 9:15am Mother's Day Morning Tea 9:45am |
| Friday 9th May |
Athletics Carnival |
| Wednesday 14th May |
Diocesan Cross Country |
| Thursday 15th May |
Paul Kelly AFL Gala - Waratah |
Canteen
There has been Food Safety Changes for all school canteens. If you are a volunteer in the school canteen the below online course needs to be completed, can you please follow the below link to ensure compliance of the new NSW Government Food Authority Standard 3.2.2A. Once this has been completed, can you please email your certificate through to admin@kotarasouth.catholic.edu.au
https://www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au/training/food-handler-basics-training
Volunteers
Thank you to all of our amazing volunteers, we really appreciate your time. If you would like to volunteer and haven't registered, please click on the link below and submit your forms. Once you have clearance the CSO will contact us to advise you have been cleared to volunteer.
https://www.mn.catholic.org.au/people/volunteer/
Playgroup
Easter Raffle
Entertainment Book
If you would like to order an Entertainment Book for 12 months from your date of purchase, please order via the below link:
Thank you to our parents for the support and value that you place on your child being at school each day. Regular school attendance plays a critical role in ensuring that every student has access to the same learning opportunities. When students are not at school, are late to school or leave school early, they are missing out on so much that can impact on their future learning.
The following Attendance Guidelines are based on current legislative requirements, research on attendance and best practice.
✔ Attendance affects a child’s academic achievement and their overall wellbeing.
✔ There is NO safe threshold of absence – everyday counts.
✔ School attendance patterns are established early in a child’s schooling
✔ The effects of school absenteeism accumulate over time and affect children’s development now and into the future.
✔ Daily punctuality is important. The early part of each day is critical. Important learning is scheduled during this time when children are rested and receptive. Key concepts are built up in the time.
✔ Sporadic absences can affect academic achievement as much as absences over consecutive days.
✔ We ALL need to work together with our children’s best interest in mind to ensure that students are at school every day that they are well enough to attend.
Compass Unexplained Absences
Unexplained absences are required to be explained within 7 days of the absence on Compass. A weekly email will be sent to parents to alert of any unexplained absences that can be updated on Compass. Please note that if the absence is longer than 7 days, the absence is then unable to be explained by parents or school.
Dear Parents and Carers,
A gentle reminder to all parents regarding Morning Drop Off and Afternoon Pick Up routines. Grayson Ave, Vista Pde and Princeton Ave are all very busy streets and I thank you all for understanding and patience as we continue with construction works.
- Parents using the Kiss and Drop Zone are to go to the end of Princeton, turn and come back down to the area. Please do not U-turn on the crest.
- If crossing Vista Parade, please use the Crossing in front of the Hall.
- Parents are asked to not drive into the private road of the units on Vista parade to drop off in the morning.
- Parents dropping off and walking children into school, please park away from intersections, hold your child's hand, check for cars and cross the road in a safe area. This may mean that parents park several blocks away and walk to the entrance.
- Please abide by the road rules and not park within 10m of an intersection. Parking too close to the intersection obstructs vision and buses are unable to turn into side streets.
- Do not park/ or drop off in No Stopping Zones.
- If collecting from Parent pick up in the afternoon, please ensure that your child/ren stay with you at all times especially on the curb side of the road.
- Students walking towards Nesbitt Park have been reminded that they are not to walk along side of the drain. Parents are encouraged to meet children on Vista and walk around to Grayson Ave to Nesbitt Park.
We are all committed to keeping our children safe. Rangers and NSW Police also patrol the area on a frequent basis, so I encourage all families to please take extra care on the roads around the the school. Please take extra care to not park across driveways.
We ask that the children do not climb in the trees in the area at parent pick up. This is a WHS risk and the some of the trees have lost excess bark and it is important that we care for our beautiful environment.
Mrs Sonya Boslem
Principal
School Fees
School Fees were emailed earlier this from the Catholic Schools Office. Please contact the school if you did not receive.
Please note:
- 2025 School Fees are invoiced for the full school year. School Fees for Year 6 also includes their Canberra Camp and Sport Shirt.
- If paying fees by instalment, your weekly, fortnightly or monthly frequency needs to commence in March, and fees are to paid in full by 30 November 2025. Please let the office know if you would like assistance with the calculation.
- If paying fees ‘in full’ as one payment, please finalise prior to 30 June 2025.
- Our preferred method of payment is either BPay or direct debit.
- For Fee Payers wishing to establish a new Direct Debit, please complete the form on the Catholic Community Fund website www.CDFmn.com.au.
- For those families experiencing financial hardship, or wishing to discuss other payment arrangements, please contact the school office to arrange an
appointment with the Principal.
If you are a Healthcare/Pension Card holder, the following 2025 Fee HCC Discount Application Form is required to be completed and returned to school with a copy of your Health Care/Pension Card for a discount on your Tuition fees. Can you please return as soon as possible.
Thank you and kind regards
Carolyn Hanley
St James’ Primary School is committed to providing a positive, safe environment for all staff and students. There are occasions, however, when members of our school and wider community are concerned about something happening at the school that may appear to be unsatisfactory or unreasonable.
In the first instance, please contact the school to discuss any types of grievance resolution as the first point of contact to help with these matters.
Additionally, the Catholic Schools Office has formal written protocols in place to address complaints and grievances. These protocols are in line with the Diocesan Complaints Resolution Policy, developed to provide a consistent approach for all diocesan schools. The complaints policy aims to address the concerns of parents and carers and the wider community. These concerns may include children’s learning, behaviour and welfare, school organisation and management, student health and safety issues.
To lodge a complaint with the Catholic Schools Office please click here.
You can access the Catholic Schools Office Complaints and Resolutions Policy and resources here.
These links and resources are also available on our website under the Parent Information/Complaints Resolution tab.
We ask that parents and carers follow these guidelines and take the appropriate steps in resolving any issues. All members of the St James’ community are asked to remember that using other channels such as social media to voice complaints and grievances is not the appropriate method when issues arise.
