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Welcome to the Week 5 newsletter as this Friday we hit the mid point of the term. My work load over the last few weeks has encompassed the celebration of Catholic Schools Week AND taking the first steps alongside a child and their parents as they begin the Primary Education journey (Kindergarten 2025 "Getting to Know You" meetings). Both endeavours have led me to reflect on the incredible, hope-filled notion of education and the privilege I enjoy in being part of such important work.
As we toil each day, we commit to never forgetting that education is a hope filled endeavour. Education has the capacity to liberate, empower and guide the adults of tomorrow. It is an absolute privilege to be part of a child’s (an even an adult’s) journey to become the best version of themselves. There is a poem/ prayer that is often credited to Oscar Romero who said many things but not this one – although he is linked to it.
In actual fact it was written and spoken by Cardinal Dearden (previously known as Fr. Ken Untener) in 1979 when he said a Mass for deceased priests (of which the Oscar Romero was one). The point is that I wish had even an ounce of the power with words to say as much in these few sentences about what it is that I love about being a teacher. Either way, I share it at this mid-point of term (when energy levels might plateau) because it is this that energises me and sustains a sense of pride in what we do every day.
This is what we are about.
We plant the seeds that one day will grow.
We water seeds already planted, knowing that they hold future promise.
We lay foundations that will need further development.
We provide yeast that produces far beyond our capabilities.
We cannot do everything, and there is a sense of liberation in realizing that.
This enables us to do something, and to do it very well.
It may be incomplete, but it is a beginning, a step along the way, an
opportunity for the Lord's grace to enter and do the rest.
We may never see the end results, but that is the difference between the master builder and the worker.
We are workers, not master builders; ministers, not messiahs.
We are prophets of a future not our own.
Catholic Schools Week
It was wonderful to welcome so many parents at our recent Catholic Schools Week whole school mass, open morning and morning tea. the children were so excited to share their learning, their classroom space and this even evolved into student led school tours of all the different zones we are now using during the break times.
Tell Them From Me
Can I also take this opportunity to invite parents to respond to the TTFM survey if they have not already done so. Your feedback will guide our Strategic Improvement direction for the next 2 years. The link is below.
Have a great w,
Jules Mulhearn
Religious Education and Catholic Identity Update
Mary Help of Christians
Mary Help of Christians is one of the many names used to refer to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Mary is referred to as a helper because of her closeness to Christ and her ability to intervene on behalf of others through prayer. The title of Mary Help of Christians was first introduced in 1571 by Pope Pius V. It was at a time of great unrest in the Catholic Church Pope Pius called on all Catholics to pray the Rosary.
In September 1844, Archbishop Polding of Sydney and the bishops of Adelaide and
Hobart met with a group of priests and decided to place the Church of Australia under the patronage of the Virgin Mary. This led to Mary Help of Christians becoming the official patron of Australia.
The Feast of Mary Help of Christians was celebrated across Australia last Friday, May 24th. This feast day is a commemoration of the assistance and protection that Mary, the mother of Jesus, provided to Christians in times of need. The devotion to Mary Help of Christians has a special significance in Australia because it is closely associated with the early history of the Catholic Church in the country.
St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney which I have visited recently was dedicated to her honour.
Some images of St Mary's Cathedral in Sydney:
![Cathedral 1](https://prod005-au.sz-cdn.net/sbpsedgeworth/media/4328/240524060405389/1080x1080/cathedral_1.jpg)
![Cathedral 2](https://prod005-au.sz-cdn.net/sbpsedgeworth/media/4329/240524060405898/1252x1440/cathedral_2.jpg)
![Cathedral 3](https://prod005-au.sz-cdn.net/sbpsedgeworth/media/4330/240524060406400/1080x1351/cathedral_3.jpg)
![Cathedral 4](https://prod005-au.sz-cdn.net/sbpsedgeworth/media/4331/240524060406967/1080x1350/cathedral_4.jpg)
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Loving God,
you place deep in our hearts
the love of Mary, Help of Christians.
Through her prayers grant wisdom
to our leaders and integrity to all Australians.
Under her protection may Australia
be granted harmony, justice and peace.
We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Yours in faith,
Miss Michelle Collins
(Religious Education Co-Ordinator)
Teaching and Curriculum Update
Maths Bee Finals
Over the past two weeks, we have held our St. Benedict’s Maths and Spelling Bee finals. It was a great celebration of our marvellous mathematical minds and super spelling strategies! All the students presented a fabulous display of skills as well as great confidence, persistence and resilience. We are very proud of all class finalists.
St. Benedict’s Maths Bee Winners
Early Stage 1- Lexie Fenner
Stage 1- Noah Jones
Stage 2- Maya Pustovoyt
Stage 3- Zak Pustovoyt
Our Stage champions will now compete in the Regional Finals which will be held at St. Joseph’s, Kilaben Bay on Friday 14th June. Well done everyone! Good luck at the Regional Maths Bee!
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Spelling Bee Finals this week
Now it is time to focus on the Spelling Bee finals this week. Due to the rescheduling of the AFL gala day, Stage 3 will be holding their final on Wednesday in the school hall at 9.30am.
Wednesday 9.30am |
Stage 3
|
Marley Cochrane-Finlay , Zak Pustovoyt, Scarlett Rose, Jack Searle , Adam Tinawin , Oliver Britton , Reeva Tamang , Archer Guihot |
Thursday will see Early Stage One, Stage 1 and Stage 2 on display.
Thursday 9.30am |
ES1
|
Riley Judge, Daisy Milajew , Keeley Moncrieff , Pranavi Jeva, Lexie Fenner Pria Lanai Mitchell |
Thursday 10.20 |
Stage 1 |
Noah Jones, Indi Eisel , Aria Moiler, Chloe Anderson , Cruz Mansley , Arham Bhutta , Amelia Gulabovski , Everlee Grainger |
Thursday 12.20pm |
Stage 2
|
Jack Tynan , Maya Pustovoyt , Foluwa Oba- Olukayode , Scarlett Hunter , Madeline Richards , Dylan Tinawin , Ryhs Toohey, Dylan Judge , Jack Cleveringa |
Kindergarten Disco Day
Last Friday, Kindergarten celebrated Crazy Colour Disco day. They all came dressed in amazing diso gear and were learning all about the letters C and D. Some of the fun activities they engaed in were caterpillar art, colourful cupackes, dinosaur lollies treats, D yoga and of course a fabulous disco party.
Thanks at all our parents and carers for assisting with the spectaular outfits and the Kindergarten team for their continued enthusisam and creativity through this unique and fun Kindergarten journey!
![IMG_4852](https://prod005-au.sz-cdn.net/sbpsedgeworth/media/4353/240528051051901/2016x693/img_4852.jpg)
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Important Notices and Reminder
Admin/ Finance Officer Suzi Di-Nardo Monday to Friday
Admin - Tiare Collins-Grayson Monday, Thursday Friday
Kinder 2025 Enrolments have now closed. As per the enrolment timeline intial letters of enrolment will be sent to parent on the 14th June. Acceptance of these offers need to be accepted by the 1st July and secured with your enrolment deposit.
School Fees
Billing Cycle and Payment Methods
School fees are billed annually in Term 1 and all fees must be paid in full by 30th November unless you have a prior agreement with our Principal.
By now at least one payment should have been made to your fees account as per your fee agreement. Sms & email reminders will be sent to any families who have yet to make a payment.
Payment method can be via direct debit with the CDF; BPay using the fee statement reference number; or credit card over the counter or via phone.
- Each fee payer can tailor frequency of payments to suit individual circumstances
- Direct debit payment frequency options can be established as weekly, fortnightly or monthly
- BPay can be at your discretion and can be set up as an automated payment
From time to time students may need to take medication at school.
Our office is able to administer medication but requires the completion of consent forms to do this. As we come into the flu season please contact our office if this applies to your child.
If your child requires medication administered daily please supply our office with medication in a blister pack. This is a requirement set by our Catholic School office to ensure the safety of medications and dosages.
Second Hand UniformsOur second hand uniform shop is overflowing with lots of school uniforms.
If you are in need of anything for winter please contact our office via phone or email with the items you are in need of and the sizes required. Cost is a gold coin donation which we collect to donate to Caritas.
If we have the items available we can send them home with your child.
ICAS – Assessments 2024
Dear Parents,
We are pleased to inform you that St Benedict’s Edgeworth will be participating again in the world-renowned ICAS Assessments this year. ICAS is developed by UNSW Global, a wholly owned subsidiary of UNSW Sydney, with over 38 years’ experience in educational assessments.
ICAS Assessments are designed to be challenging, targeting students’ higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills in English, Mathematics, Science, Writing, Spelling and Digital Technologies.
Each assessment celebrates students’ accomplishments by providing opportunities for recognition. Every student will receive a printed certificate and an online result report. Top performers will be eligible for medals and are invited to attend special award ceremonies to have their academic excellence publicly recognised.
The assessments are suitable for students in Years 3 - 6 wishing to extend themselves academically and take up the personal challenge of competing in an international assessment. Your child will be presented with high-quality, expert-developed questions, allowing them to apply their learning without the need for prior study or revision.
ICAS Assessments are now online, a move that reflects a sector-wide transition to online assessments. This allows greater accessibility for students and faster delivery of results.
Learn more about ICAS here: https://www.icasassessments.com/products-icas
Online Parent Payment:
In 2024, students will have the opportunity to participate in the following subjects:
Subject |
Sitting dates |
Cost |
Closing Date |
ICAS Digital Technologies |
5th – 9th August. Term 3 Week 3. |
$19.25 (inc. GST) |
Monday, 29th July 2024 |
ICAS Writing |
5th – 9th August. Term 3 Week 3. |
$23.65 (inc. GST) |
Monday, 29th July 2024 |
ICAS English |
12th – 16th August. Term 3 Week 4. |
$19.25 (inc. GST) |
Monday, 29th July 2024 |
ICAS Science |
19th August – 23rd August. Term 3 Week 5. |
$19.25 (inc. GST) |
Monday, 29th July 2024 |
ICAS Spelling Bee |
19th August – 23rd August. Term 3 Week 5. |
$19.25 (inc. GST) |
Monday, 29th July 2024 |
ICAS Mathematics |
26th August – 30th August. Term 3 Week 6. |
$19.25 (inc. GST) |
Monday, 29th July 2024 |
If you would like your child to participate in any of the subjects listed above, please visit the new online Parent Payment System to make a direct payment to UNSW Global. The Parent Payment System is a simple and secure online payment service specifically for parents to purchase ICAS Assessments.
The web link is: https://shop.icasassessments.com/pages/pps
Our school’s unique access code is: ZPP158
IMPORTANT: Please enter your child’s name accurately into the System as it will appear on their ICAS certificate.
We are proud to partner with UNSW Global in offering the ICAS Assessments and look forward to some fantastic results later in the year.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Mr Wayne Bailey - Primary Coordinator.
This week is Part 2 of our 3 part series to unpack the bullying protections we have in place at our school. The purpose of this series of articles is to clearly set out the procedures regarding any alleged bullying behaviours. It is actually one of our biggest documents, so I want to unpack it over a number of weeks. ( I will also move all three weeks of articles into a Special Edition newsletter for future Reference, should it ever be needed).
- Week 2 Newsletter - Purpose of Documentation, Recognising and Defining Bullying, Types of Bullying. Promoting Bullying Awareness
- Week 3 Newsletter - Investigating, Recording (tracking) and Confirming Bullying Behaviours. Including occasions when Bullying is not confirmed and why.
- Week 4 Newsletter - Responding to bullying, Consequences and actions, Supporting Anti Bullying strategies.
Allegation and Investigation
One of the tools that we implement at schools when an allegation of bullying is brought to our attention is the Bullying Assessment and Action Flow Chart. It allows us to determine the presence of bullying in any given situation and is outlined below. It is used as a tool to ensure that all possible bullying allegations are treated appropriately in accordance with the definition. It is important to realise that not all incidences experienced by children can be automatically defined as bullying and so the use of this flow chart is invaluable.
Reporting and Record Keeping
- All previous incidents regarding different children are recorded on their student Chronicle on COMPASS. At the point of initial concern, parent contact or formal allegation, staff members must always consult previous entries of concern or incidences that are recorded with respect to the child. This may give a broader picture of the context of the investigation.
- When investigating a reported/ alleged incident, staff will complete Alleged Bullying Initial Action Tool as a Compass chronicle in the profile of student/s who has engaged in bullying behaviour. Both the student/s perpetrating the behaviours and the one/s impacted are listed in this tool.
- If the alleged incident is found to be one specific to bullying, this is confirmed as part of the tool used above and this enacts the schools Anti Bullying procedures.
- Students found to be directly involved in an act of bullying will be identified as part of the Bullying Action tool and further notes are made onto their personal Chronicle about their level of involvement. This especially applies if the bullying behaviours were conducted by a group of students with varying degrees of involvement. The one tool applies but further notes track specific responsibility for each student involved.
- If the alleged incident is not found to be one specific to bullying, this is confirmed in the action tool and the school’s behaviour management procedures are enacted. Teachers will also record an alert on the Chronicle of the child conducting the behaviours (as well as the one impacted) that directs other staff members to the incident and logs it as a potential pattern.
- It is recognised that an isolated incident may not constitute bullying but repeated patterns of the same mode can. Therefore, as part of any investigation, the teacher will need to consult the Chronicle entries for students allegedly involved to identify any pattern or repeat of the behaviour.
- Communication of the findings to parents of students involved will be formalised in the reporting section below.
Communicating
- If a decision is made confirming an incident of bullying, parents of all parties must be informed of their child’s role via a formal notification. Parents of both the victim (informing of steps taken by the school) and the perpetrator (informing of consequences governed by the school’s Anti Bullying Policy) will be informed of the final decision.
- Parents of the perpetrator will be further consulted in forming the disciplinary measures and support actions the school can enact.
- If an investigation is undertaken regarding an alleged bullying that cannot be confirmed, parents making the allegation must be informed of the investigation undertaken and reasons why the particular incident is not confirmed as bullying. This can be done verbally and logged or a letter.
- While not bullying, if the incident demands a response under normal discipline policy, the parent of the children involved will be informed accordingly. As stated above, the investigation /incident is still noted on the Chronicle of those children involved as part of the school’s behaviour management procedures.
When Bullying isn't Bullying
Deliberate, targeted, repeated and harmful behaviours involving the dominance of power.”
After careful investigation, there are times that an incident can not be confirmed as bullying. Firstly, this does not mean it is not something that needs to be dealt with under the school’s Behaviour Managment Procedures. Secondly, it does not mean that that incident itself will not necessarily develop into a pattern of behaviour that won’t further constitute bullying.
Ultimately, there are any number of incidences in any given week that constitute the normal social interaction of children that could be perceived as bullying but, in fact, are not. If a child feels overcome while equally contesting a ball, it is not necessarily bullying. A careless comment or crass joke at a time of high energy is not bullying. An incident of anger that results in a negative, random outlet of emotion is not bullying. They most certainly are incidences needing to be dealt with and each is recoded to ensure that repeated incidences are tracked. However, they are dealt with under the Behaviour Support Procedures.
And finally, we as a school need to respond to incidences as they occur. It is difficult to address an alleged pattern of behaviour if we only begin to respond to it at the end of that pattern when past incidents are difficult to investigate. To this end, we are committed to hearing, investigating, tracking and responding to any concerns parents have as they arise and continue to invite your vigilance in bringing some of these unseen incidences to our attention.
Next week in our final part of this series we will cover: Responding to bullying (once confirmed), Consequences and Actions, Supporting Anti Bullying strategies.
AFL Paul Kelly Cup
Best of luck to our Stage 3 students who will be competing in the AFL Paul Kelly Cup tomorrow at Warners Bay. Our Boys and Girls teams will compete against a variety of local schools in a round robin tournament in an attempt to progress to the Regional Finals later in June.
Diocesan Touch Football Trials
Well done to Cadence Hopkins, Alexis Huntriss and Archer Guihot who represented the Lakes Region at the Diocesan Touch Football Trials last week. A special congratulations to Archer Guihot who has been selected to represent the Maitland/Newcastle Diocese in the Polding Trials, held in Parkes later in June. Another fantastic effort!!
![IMG_4554.jpg](https://prod005-au.sz-cdn.net/sbpsedgeworth/media/4250/240506030924809/308x410/img_4554.jpg)
Library News
ALIA’s National Simultaneous Storytime
Last Wednesday, 22nd May our school participated in the Australian Library and Information Association’s (ALIA) National Simultaneous Storytime. This event occurs every year. A picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator, is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, pre-schools, childcare centres, family homes, bookshops and many other places around the country.
Our infants' students had a wonderful time reading this year’s picture book, Bowerbird Blues written and illustrated by Aura Parker. They also enjoyed participating in activities in response to the text.
Ms Mateos
Monday 27th May - F. McPherson
Tuesday 28th May - H.Fenwick
Wednesday 29th May - C. Schumacher
Thursday 30th May - Jamie-Lee Boyle
Friday 31st May - Closed Sports Carnival
Monday 3rd June - C.Smith
Tuesday 4th June- Closed
Wednesday 5th June- H.Topic
Thursday 6th June - K. Miller Jewel
Friday 7th June - C.Boyle & J.Fenwick
Along with our canteen supervisor Haley Fenwick.
Congratulations to the following students who were recognised for their efforts in Learning, Improvement and Kindness to Others last week.
|
Class Achievement, Progress and Effort |
Awards Spirit of Jesus Awards |
KB |
Abigail Leigh, Allyra Chapple |
|
KR |
Anna Jones, Arush Dhungel |
|
1B |
Malia Kelly , Emily Haddad |
Benny Steel |
1R |
Alexia Bertwistle, Charlotte Price |
|
2B |
Ronan Somai, Ava Isbester |
|
2R |
Penelope-Rose Boyle, Ella Goodwin |
|
3B |
Grayce Musgrave, Christo Mathew |
|
3R |
Lucy Burgess, Braxton Francis |
|
4B |
Isla Hopkins, Scarlett Hunter |
|
4R |
Oliver Wright, Bailey O'Malley |
|
5B |
Maddison Mansley, Payton Kinnaird |
|
5R |
Lyndsie Kilian, William Beattie |
|
6B |
Willow Creek, Angad Singh |
|
6R |
Nate Bevan, Billy Johnson |
|
![IMG_4880](https://prod005-au.sz-cdn.net/sbpsedgeworth/media/4358/240528055837806/2016x1512/img_4880.jpg)
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Community Organisation Announcements
The school assists local organsiation to promtote their child related services, events and activities. The school is not directly linked to these events but we are happy to support the greater edgeworth and Cameron Park community.