Principal's Message (Return to Newsletter Home)
Term One Week Ten
What an incredibly busy couple of weeks we’ve had since the last newsletter. It’s been a long time since we’ve had a ten week first term and it’s a little crazy what we’ve managed to fit into it. I'm sure there's a number of students (and parents) looking forward to a well earned break. Details around two of our big events from the last fortnight are included below.
During this time of Lent it is an opportunity for us to pause and reflect, to step away from our busyness and find some time for ourselves. It is an opportunity to reflect on the choices we are making in our own lives and drawing on our faith make the changes we may see are needed. It is also a time to recognise Christ’s light in those around us. As our families prepare to break for the Easter period I would encourage you to find some time to yourself to stop, reflect on the incredible things within your life and look for ways you can bring joy to others.
Study Tour hosting
We recently hosted 20 teachers from around Australia coming to look at our practices and learn more about what a play based education can look like. Again the visiting teachers were highly impressed with our learning spaces and the relationships our staff build with their students. We even had a few ‘I was totally against this idea but you’ve turned me around’ moments. These visits continue to be an incredible recognition of the commitment and effort our staff put into providing the highest quality education for all students. I’d like to take the chance to once again acknowledge and thank the staff who open their classrooms up to these visitors and put themselves on display. Imagine having 20 peers show up at your workplace to observe and comment on all you do for a day...
2020 Information Night
We had over 70 parents in attendance at our 2020 Foundation information session and it is great to see such a continuing support for what we do here at St Columba’s. Along with another 20+ at our day tours. We carry a strong reputation in the community and this is a great reflection on our staff and families of the tremendous efforts they put in. The feedback from visiting families continues to be one of amazement at how a school can feel so inviting and friendly, whilst it was clear we still had a dedicated focus on academic achievement at the same time.
Farewell and Welcome
With the imminent arrival of baby number 3 we say farewell again to Mrs Maree Cooper from week 2 next term. Maree will be greatly missed by the students and has laid the foundations for an incredible art program this year. Following interviews last week, replacing Maree for the remainder of the year will be someone familiar to a number of our families, Caitlyn Gordon. We wish Maree and Luke all the best with their newest addition to the family.
Winter Uniform
With the start of Term 2 we move to our winter uniform, recognising that the weather certainly isn’t playing nice right now for the first few weeks of term students may wear the uniform that is appropriate to the weather.
Term 2 Closure Day
In week 3 of next term we will be having a closure on the 6th May. The teachers will be working with renowned Canadian educator Tom Hierck. The focus for the day will be around building positive classroom cultures to support student learning
Long Service Leave
We have a number of staff taking leave over the coming term, please keep an eye on the skoolbag app and newsletter for details that may relate to your child/ren’s teacher.
Other Things
(Return to Newsletter Home)
During this time of Lent it is an opportunity for us to pause and reflect, to step away from our busyness and find some time for ourselves. It is an opportunity to reflect on the choices we are making in our own lives and drawing on our faith make the changes we may see are needed. It is also a time to recognise Christ’s light in those around us. As our families prepare to break for the Easter period I would encourage you to find some time to yourself to stop, reflect on the incredible things within your life and look for ways you can bring joy to others.
Study Tour hosting
We recently hosted 20 teachers from around Australia coming to look at our practices and learn more about what a play based education can look like. Again the visiting teachers were highly impressed with our learning spaces and the relationships our staff build with their students. We even had a few ‘I was totally against this idea but you’ve turned me around’ moments. These visits continue to be an incredible recognition of the commitment and effort our staff put into providing the highest quality education for all students. I’d like to take the chance to once again acknowledge and thank the staff who open their classrooms up to these visitors and put themselves on display. Imagine having 20 peers show up at your workplace to observe and comment on all you do for a day...
2020 Information Night
We had over 70 parents in attendance at our 2020 Foundation information session and it is great to see such a continuing support for what we do here at St Columba’s. Along with another 20+ at our day tours. We carry a strong reputation in the community and this is a great reflection on our staff and families of the tremendous efforts they put in. The feedback from visiting families continues to be one of amazement at how a school can feel so inviting and friendly, whilst it was clear we still had a dedicated focus on academic achievement at the same time.
Farewell and Welcome
With the imminent arrival of baby number 3 we say farewell again to Mrs Maree Cooper from week 2 next term. Maree will be greatly missed by the students and has laid the foundations for an incredible art program this year. Following interviews last week, replacing Maree for the remainder of the year will be someone familiar to a number of our families, Caitlyn Gordon. We wish Maree and Luke all the best with their newest addition to the family.
Winter Uniform
With the start of Term 2 we move to our winter uniform, recognising that the weather certainly isn’t playing nice right now for the first few weeks of term students may wear the uniform that is appropriate to the weather.
Term 2 Closure Day
In week 3 of next term we will be having a closure on the 6th May. The teachers will be working with renowned Canadian educator Tom Hierck. The focus for the day will be around building positive classroom cultures to support student learning
Long Service Leave
We have a number of staff taking leave over the coming term, please keep an eye on the skoolbag app and newsletter for details that may relate to your child/ren’s teacher.
Other Things
- A reminder this Friday is an early finish time for students, the school day will end at 2:30pm.
- Tomorrow is our annual Athletic’s day, a reminder that only parents who are assisting with events are allowed in the competition area in accordance with Llanberris’ OH&S guidelines.
- Assembly will be even weeks next term starting in week 2, there will be no Foundation introductions during Term 2 as the Senior students are out with interschool sports, these will resume in Term 3.
(Return to Newsletter Home)
Term One Week Eight
Over the next two days Principals and Priests from across the Diocese are meeting in Horsham to talk about a number of key issues. One of the major focuses over this time is the concept of partnerships, how schools and leaders can work with one another to improve education for all. This concept is an important one at St Columba’s and a critical part of who we are. The idea of partnerships in education runs through so many of our beliefs in what makes education successful.
One of the key factors in making a partnerships successful is the idea of mutual gain, that all participants benefit from the relationships. We see this daily with our parent community and the countless interactions that take place between staff and families. One area we often don’t celebrate is our buddy system. Talking to prospective parents for 2020 last week I had the pleasure of being able to talk about how much of an impact our buddy system and kinder visits has on our students. The obvious is the new foundation students and the support they receive coming into the school, the flip of that is the sense of responsibility and pride our senior students take in this role. It really does see the best qualities of all our students shine through.
Over time the Principal’s message has grown to include “anything that might be ignored in other sections” we’re working to bring this back to its original intent. For this to work, please ensure you are making use of the other sections to see what is happening in different areas of the school, particularly the RE news and upcoming dates there is almost always something on that is important to know about.
Parent Access Module
A reminder that all Parent Access Module (PAM) accounts are now active, PAM allows you to login and view things such as your child’s attendance and semester reports. PAM is also our excursion permission and medical information tool. With the upcoming Athletic’s day along with other excursions now would be a good time to check all these details are up to date and you are able to login successfully. PAM can be accessed at pam.scballarat.catholic.edu.au
School Hats
The correct school hats have finally arrived, if your child current has one of the temporary colour ones can you please return this to school and see the uniform shop to purchase a correct one. We plan to donate the misprints so would greatly appreciate these being returned.
School Assembly
LG5 will lead the next Assembly which will be held Friday 29th March at 2.40pm, in the School Hall.
At this assembly we will introduce a group of our Foundation students to the school community. The following students will be presented by their Grade 5 buddy:-
Henry B (Sam C), Tearney M (Grace G), Lily P (Jamila B) Paddy G (Benny R), Saxon V (Thomas W)
All are welcome to attend.
(Return to Newsletter Home)
One of the key factors in making a partnerships successful is the idea of mutual gain, that all participants benefit from the relationships. We see this daily with our parent community and the countless interactions that take place between staff and families. One area we often don’t celebrate is our buddy system. Talking to prospective parents for 2020 last week I had the pleasure of being able to talk about how much of an impact our buddy system and kinder visits has on our students. The obvious is the new foundation students and the support they receive coming into the school, the flip of that is the sense of responsibility and pride our senior students take in this role. It really does see the best qualities of all our students shine through.
Over time the Principal’s message has grown to include “anything that might be ignored in other sections” we’re working to bring this back to its original intent. For this to work, please ensure you are making use of the other sections to see what is happening in different areas of the school, particularly the RE news and upcoming dates there is almost always something on that is important to know about.
Parent Access Module
A reminder that all Parent Access Module (PAM) accounts are now active, PAM allows you to login and view things such as your child’s attendance and semester reports. PAM is also our excursion permission and medical information tool. With the upcoming Athletic’s day along with other excursions now would be a good time to check all these details are up to date and you are able to login successfully. PAM can be accessed at pam.scballarat.catholic.edu.au
School Hats
The correct school hats have finally arrived, if your child current has one of the temporary colour ones can you please return this to school and see the uniform shop to purchase a correct one. We plan to donate the misprints so would greatly appreciate these being returned.
School Assembly
LG5 will lead the next Assembly which will be held Friday 29th March at 2.40pm, in the School Hall.
At this assembly we will introduce a group of our Foundation students to the school community. The following students will be presented by their Grade 5 buddy:-
Henry B (Sam C), Tearney M (Grace G), Lily P (Jamila B) Paddy G (Benny R), Saxon V (Thomas W)
All are welcome to attend.
(Return to Newsletter Home)
Term One Week Six
What a difference a month makes, it’s incredible looking out the window of the office today and looking at the incredible change in all our students, particularly our new Foundation cohort. In those first days of school it was common to see tentative young students with a slightly nervous look on their faces just beginning to venture beyond the safety of the sandpit and deck area (designated Foundation only spaces). This week we have 48 students madly running around the yard with giant smiles forming friendships that may last the next five minutes of the game, or the rest of their lives.
Academically the difference that time makes is incredible as well. Last night we hosted a tour from another school looking at our work in the area of writing. One of the consistent comments from this group, other than a love of our learning spaces, was the incredible development that was evident in the student’s work from the start of the year to now. These results are a reflection of the hard work of staff in developing themselves as skilled writing practitioners and a positive recognition of the efforts the school went to in 2018 to improve writing across the school.
Over the last fortnight we have also had meetings of our two main parent bodies, the School Advisory Council and the Parents & Friends group. I’d like to take the chance to recognise and acknowledge the hard work of both these groups in ensuring St Columba’s continues to be a welcoming environment held in high regard throughout the community. Without the support and trust of our parent body we couldn’t achieve the many incredible things we do.
Thank you all the parents who attended welcome chats over the last week as well. The feedback I’ve heard from parents and staff has been overwhelmingly
Playgroup
Another new initiative headed up by our parents is the formation of a new St Columba’s playgroup, for more details please see the Community News section.
Welcome
Next week Simone Bawden will be joining our staff in preparation for Erica Hare’s upcoming maternity leave. Whilst we are sad to be farewelling Erica we are also excited to have the talents of Simone joining our staff to continue the fantastic Languages program Erica has built over many years at our school.
CyberSafety
As part of their Digital Education lessons this term students have been exploring the idea of cybersafety. Students in 3-6 have been looking at different scenarios related to cybersafety including password protection, online scams and the impact of online behaviour on offline behaviours. Parents may have seen reports recently in the news of the ‘latest’ craze MOMO, most of the evidence related to this event show it to be a hoax of a hoax that has been picked up on by social media and news outlets. One of the messages we constantly give to students is they will not be in trouble or lose privileges if they come across something inappropriate by chance and report it to a teacher. What we don’t want to see is students hiding information out of fear they may lose internet access. General advice for home continues to promote the importance of knowing what you children are doing when online, having devices in a public space and avoiding phones in the bedroom particularly when trying to sleep. We have also had a number of junior students discussing online games that are well outside their age classification, this can cause problems for other students in their year level. The office of eSafety commision has some general advice on supporting children with online behaviours and gaming
Statement re. Cardinal George Pell
Attached below this section is a statement from Audrey Brown Director of Catholic Education, Ballarat
Academically the difference that time makes is incredible as well. Last night we hosted a tour from another school looking at our work in the area of writing. One of the consistent comments from this group, other than a love of our learning spaces, was the incredible development that was evident in the student’s work from the start of the year to now. These results are a reflection of the hard work of staff in developing themselves as skilled writing practitioners and a positive recognition of the efforts the school went to in 2018 to improve writing across the school.
Over the last fortnight we have also had meetings of our two main parent bodies, the School Advisory Council and the Parents & Friends group. I’d like to take the chance to recognise and acknowledge the hard work of both these groups in ensuring St Columba’s continues to be a welcoming environment held in high regard throughout the community. Without the support and trust of our parent body we couldn’t achieve the many incredible things we do.
Thank you all the parents who attended welcome chats over the last week as well. The feedback I’ve heard from parents and staff has been overwhelmingly
Playgroup
Another new initiative headed up by our parents is the formation of a new St Columba’s playgroup, for more details please see the Community News section.
Welcome
Next week Simone Bawden will be joining our staff in preparation for Erica Hare’s upcoming maternity leave. Whilst we are sad to be farewelling Erica we are also excited to have the talents of Simone joining our staff to continue the fantastic Languages program Erica has built over many years at our school.
CyberSafety
As part of their Digital Education lessons this term students have been exploring the idea of cybersafety. Students in 3-6 have been looking at different scenarios related to cybersafety including password protection, online scams and the impact of online behaviour on offline behaviours. Parents may have seen reports recently in the news of the ‘latest’ craze MOMO, most of the evidence related to this event show it to be a hoax of a hoax that has been picked up on by social media and news outlets. One of the messages we constantly give to students is they will not be in trouble or lose privileges if they come across something inappropriate by chance and report it to a teacher. What we don’t want to see is students hiding information out of fear they may lose internet access. General advice for home continues to promote the importance of knowing what you children are doing when online, having devices in a public space and avoiding phones in the bedroom particularly when trying to sleep. We have also had a number of junior students discussing online games that are well outside their age classification, this can cause problems for other students in their year level. The office of eSafety commision has some general advice on supporting children with online behaviours and gaming
Statement re. Cardinal George Pell
Attached below this section is a statement from Audrey Brown Director of Catholic Education, Ballarat
| statement_from_the_director_of_catholic_education.pdf |
Kim’s Overseas Volunteering Experience
On Wednesday 13th March Kim will share her experiences of having a year’s leave to volunteer in India & Timor Leste.
Two sessions will be held in the St Columba’s Church foyer - 11am with coffee & cake and 7pm with wine & cheese.
All parents, friends and parishioners welcome to come along.
School Hats
The correct school hats have finally arrived, if your child current has one of the temporary colour ones can you please return this to school and see the uniform shop to purchase a correct one. We plan to donate the misprints so would greatly appreciate these being returned.
School Assembly
LG 1 will lead the next Assembly which will be held Friday 15th March at 2.40pm, in the School Hall.
At this assembly we will introduce a group of our Foundation students to the school community. The following students will be presented by their Grade 5 buddy:-
Lenny P (Archie T), Henry B (Sam C), Willow M (Tahlia L), Esther C (Eden J), Darcy B (Joel M) Lulu M (Ella G)
All are welcome to attend.
(Return to Newsletter Home)
On Wednesday 13th March Kim will share her experiences of having a year’s leave to volunteer in India & Timor Leste.
Two sessions will be held in the St Columba’s Church foyer - 11am with coffee & cake and 7pm with wine & cheese.
All parents, friends and parishioners welcome to come along.
School Hats
The correct school hats have finally arrived, if your child current has one of the temporary colour ones can you please return this to school and see the uniform shop to purchase a correct one. We plan to donate the misprints so would greatly appreciate these being returned.
School Assembly
LG 1 will lead the next Assembly which will be held Friday 15th March at 2.40pm, in the School Hall.
At this assembly we will introduce a group of our Foundation students to the school community. The following students will be presented by their Grade 5 buddy:-
Lenny P (Archie T), Henry B (Sam C), Willow M (Tahlia L), Esther C (Eden J), Darcy B (Joel M) Lulu M (Ella G)
All are welcome to attend.
(Return to Newsletter Home)
Term One Week Four
School involvement is a critical factor in student learning, student attendance obviously plays a large part in this, parental involvement in learning is also a major determiner of student success. Last year we looked at a number of ways our parents can be involved within the school and support students in their learning. The Parents and Friends and School Advisory Council are two of our more organised ways to get involved in school life, there are also numerous opportunities through classroom helpers and excursions. If you have a particular skill or idea please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teacher and look at options to run a clinic for some students. These clinics provide students with experiences that we just cannot provide as individual teachers, allowing students to tap into the expertise and knowledge of our wider parent community.
Another way to connect with your child’s learning is through SeeSaw, SeeSaw is our primary form of digital portfolios and a great chance to see real time evidence of your child’s work and progress. If you already have an account you will see that your child has been moved into their new year level, whilst also keeping all their previous work samples available. If you don’t have an account, information on connecting to your child’s portfolio will be coming home soon.
We will be reviewing the use of SeeSaw throughout the year through the School Advisory Council, if you have any thoughts or considerations around it please contact a member to assist our conversations. The School Advisory Council is also exploring the idea of community connection this year and looking into ways we can connect with the Ballarat Community to provide greater learning experiences and opportunities for our students.
Information Night
Thank you to everyone in attendance at the information night last week, the weather played slightly nicer than we thought it would so we are looking at an alternative date for a welcome picnic later this term. The information nights are a great chance for parents to get a brief overview of what’s happening and the daily running of things at school as well as any key events for the year. If you have any feedback or thoughts on how we can improve these nights please let us know at office@scballarat.catholic.edu.au include information night feedback in your subject. Thanks
Partnerships/Welcome Chats
One of the things we pride ourselves on at St Columba’s is our work in partnership with parents. We recognise the importance of parents as first educators of children and the valuable knowledge you can bring to our own work within schools. To further support this we will be holding welcome chats next week to provide an opportunity for parents to meet with their child/ren’s classroom teachers. As part of this chat we would encourage you to share what you know about getting the best from your child, what is it that we should know to best support their learning and wellbeing? You may also like to share some of your hopes and aspirations and how you feel the school can assist in bringing these to life? It is also an opportunity for teachers to share how your child is settling into the new year and learning environment.
Booking information was emailed earlier this week. If you have any queries please contact the office.
School Exclusion
It’s that fun time of the year when everyone is back together and if one person catches something it’s soon passed on to everyone. One of the challenges around illness’ is often the return to school timing, the government puts out some clear guidelines around exclusion following an illness and these can be found at https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/public-health/infectious-diseases/school-exclusion/school-exclusion-table
Baby News
We would like to congratulate Mrs Susan and Bruce Vowles on the announcement of their recent pregnancy. Susan and Bruce are expecting their third child later in the year. As you can imagine this is an exciting time for their families and the school staff. We wish them every happiness and joy throughout this exciting journey
Aboriginal Literacy Foundation
The Aboriginal Literacy Foundation is again offering an after school tutoring opportunity for primary school aged Aboriginal children at the Ballarat Tutorial Center. These sessions run between 4:30pm -5:30pm Wednesday afternoon, all tutors are registered Victorian teachers. If you are interested or to find out more information please contact Jacinta Humphries on 5333 5342 or email jacinta@aboriginalliteracyfoundation.org
Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF) Financial Assistance
CSEF is provided by the Victorian Government to assist eligible families to cover the costs of school trips,camps and sporting activities. If you hold a current valid means-tested concession card you may be eligible for CSEF. The allowance is paid to the school to use towards expenses relating to camps, excursions or sporting activities for the benefit of your child.
The annual CSEF amount per student is $125 for primary school students.
How to apply
New applicants should contact the school office to obtain a CSEF application form or download from www.education.vic.gov.au/csef
If you applied for the CSEF at this school in 2018, you do not need to complete an application form in 2019 unless there have been a change in your family circumstances.
You only need to complete an application form if you have:-
School Assembly
LG 9 will lead the next Assembly which will be held Friday 1st March at 2.40pm, in the School Hall.
At this assembly we will introduce a group of our Foundation students to the school community. The following students will be presented by their Grade 5 buddy:-
Hudson C (Hudson A), Braxton H, (Eamonn J), Molly M (Lotte D), Stella P (Lily O), Sebbie P (Alex B) and Gina M (Ella R)
All are welcome to attend.
Another way to connect with your child’s learning is through SeeSaw, SeeSaw is our primary form of digital portfolios and a great chance to see real time evidence of your child’s work and progress. If you already have an account you will see that your child has been moved into their new year level, whilst also keeping all their previous work samples available. If you don’t have an account, information on connecting to your child’s portfolio will be coming home soon.
We will be reviewing the use of SeeSaw throughout the year through the School Advisory Council, if you have any thoughts or considerations around it please contact a member to assist our conversations. The School Advisory Council is also exploring the idea of community connection this year and looking into ways we can connect with the Ballarat Community to provide greater learning experiences and opportunities for our students.
Information Night
Thank you to everyone in attendance at the information night last week, the weather played slightly nicer than we thought it would so we are looking at an alternative date for a welcome picnic later this term. The information nights are a great chance for parents to get a brief overview of what’s happening and the daily running of things at school as well as any key events for the year. If you have any feedback or thoughts on how we can improve these nights please let us know at office@scballarat.catholic.edu.au include information night feedback in your subject. Thanks
Partnerships/Welcome Chats
One of the things we pride ourselves on at St Columba’s is our work in partnership with parents. We recognise the importance of parents as first educators of children and the valuable knowledge you can bring to our own work within schools. To further support this we will be holding welcome chats next week to provide an opportunity for parents to meet with their child/ren’s classroom teachers. As part of this chat we would encourage you to share what you know about getting the best from your child, what is it that we should know to best support their learning and wellbeing? You may also like to share some of your hopes and aspirations and how you feel the school can assist in bringing these to life? It is also an opportunity for teachers to share how your child is settling into the new year and learning environment.
Booking information was emailed earlier this week. If you have any queries please contact the office.
School Exclusion
It’s that fun time of the year when everyone is back together and if one person catches something it’s soon passed on to everyone. One of the challenges around illness’ is often the return to school timing, the government puts out some clear guidelines around exclusion following an illness and these can be found at https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/public-health/infectious-diseases/school-exclusion/school-exclusion-table
Baby News
We would like to congratulate Mrs Susan and Bruce Vowles on the announcement of their recent pregnancy. Susan and Bruce are expecting their third child later in the year. As you can imagine this is an exciting time for their families and the school staff. We wish them every happiness and joy throughout this exciting journey
Aboriginal Literacy Foundation
The Aboriginal Literacy Foundation is again offering an after school tutoring opportunity for primary school aged Aboriginal children at the Ballarat Tutorial Center. These sessions run between 4:30pm -5:30pm Wednesday afternoon, all tutors are registered Victorian teachers. If you are interested or to find out more information please contact Jacinta Humphries on 5333 5342 or email jacinta@aboriginalliteracyfoundation.org
Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF) Financial Assistance
CSEF is provided by the Victorian Government to assist eligible families to cover the costs of school trips,camps and sporting activities. If you hold a current valid means-tested concession card you may be eligible for CSEF. The allowance is paid to the school to use towards expenses relating to camps, excursions or sporting activities for the benefit of your child.
The annual CSEF amount per student is $125 for primary school students.
How to apply
New applicants should contact the school office to obtain a CSEF application form or download from www.education.vic.gov.au/csef
If you applied for the CSEF at this school in 2018, you do not need to complete an application form in 2019 unless there have been a change in your family circumstances.
You only need to complete an application form if you have:-
- a new student enrolment
- changed family circumstances
School Assembly
LG 9 will lead the next Assembly which will be held Friday 1st March at 2.40pm, in the School Hall.
At this assembly we will introduce a group of our Foundation students to the school community. The following students will be presented by their Grade 5 buddy:-
Hudson C (Hudson A), Braxton H, (Eamonn J), Molly M (Lotte D), Stella P (Lily O), Sebbie P (Alex B) and Gina M (Ella R)
All are welcome to attend.
Student Leaders
Congratulations to all our newly elected school leaders for 2019. The various leadership groups and roles will work closely with staff and our school captains in ensuring our school remains a safe and happy place to attend.
Enviro and Arts Reps for 2019
LG 1
Lotte D & Eamonn J
Ainsley Y & Joel M
LG 2
Savannah K & Gabe P
Georgia S & Luke S
LG 3
Jett D & Eden J
Illy M & Abigail (Abbey) D
LG 4
Talia L & Ella B
Ella R & Grace G
LG 5
Sadie M & Kipp M
Eddy W & Aiden O
LG 6
Xavier S & Audrey M
Emilyn-Maie C & Lucy B
LG 7
Poppy P & Manny M
Angus M & Lila M
LG 8
Piper D & Pippa M
Bridie R & Sienna B
LG 9
Samara O & Jack B
Fergus T & Grace R
LG 10
Finn C & Isabelle R
Sophie G & Caira D
LG 11
Aidan S & Oscar C
Ellie W & Tilly B
LG 12
Hannah W & Cormac M
Isla C & Zara C
LG 13
(not till Term 2)
LG 14
(not till Term 2)
VOICE Reps (for Semester 1)
Foundation LC
(not till Term 2)
1/2 LC
Elliott B & Ivy H
3/4 LC
Finn S & Bea M
5/6 LC
Hannah R & Baxter H
(Return to Newsletter Home)
Congratulations to all our newly elected school leaders for 2019. The various leadership groups and roles will work closely with staff and our school captains in ensuring our school remains a safe and happy place to attend.
Enviro and Arts Reps for 2019
LG 1
Lotte D & Eamonn J
Ainsley Y & Joel M
LG 2
Savannah K & Gabe P
Georgia S & Luke S
LG 3
Jett D & Eden J
Illy M & Abigail (Abbey) D
LG 4
Talia L & Ella B
Ella R & Grace G
LG 5
Sadie M & Kipp M
Eddy W & Aiden O
LG 6
Xavier S & Audrey M
Emilyn-Maie C & Lucy B
LG 7
Poppy P & Manny M
Angus M & Lila M
LG 8
Piper D & Pippa M
Bridie R & Sienna B
LG 9
Samara O & Jack B
Fergus T & Grace R
LG 10
Finn C & Isabelle R
Sophie G & Caira D
LG 11
Aidan S & Oscar C
Ellie W & Tilly B
LG 12
Hannah W & Cormac M
Isla C & Zara C
LG 13
(not till Term 2)
LG 14
(not till Term 2)
VOICE Reps (for Semester 1)
Foundation LC
(not till Term 2)
1/2 LC
Elliott B & Ivy H
3/4 LC
Finn S & Bea M
5/6 LC
Hannah R & Baxter H
(Return to Newsletter Home)
Term One Week 2
God of Love,
You are with us in every transition and change.
As we enter into this new school year with excitement and even some anxiety,
we recall your deep compassion, presence, and abounding love.
We thank you for the gifts, talents and skills with which you have blessed us.
We thank you for the experiences that have brought us to this moment.
We thank you for the work of others that gives breadth and depth to our own work.
We thank you for the families who entrust us with the education of their children.
Be with us as we move forward, rejoicing with you, supporting one another and sharing the Good News in our communities.
We ask this in your name. Amen
WELCOME BACK to the start of the 2019 school year and a special welcome to all the new families joining the St Columba’s School community. On Monday we welcomed 51 new students; 48 Foundation students and Keira McDonald and Sienna Brittain into the 5/6 Learning Community and Charlotte Brittain into the 3/4 Learning Community.
As it can be a little daunting when joining any new community, I ask that our current families extend a warm and friendly St Columba’s welcome to our new families.
We also welcome Tim Gilbert and Lucy Quanchi to the staff this year and officially welcome back Emily Mullane from family leave. Lucy is teaching in the 3/4 Learning Community and Tim and Emily are teaching in the 1/2 Learning Community.
The year has started very smoothly, with all children settling into their classroom routines. Walking through the school on Monday morning it was great to see the student’s enthusiasm and excitement at being back at school. There seems to have been a seamless transition with children adjusting to routines very quickly.
At the start of a new school year your child might be feeling a little anxious as they move into a new learning community, learning group or school. If so, please reassure them that everyone is finding things that are new and different. It will take a little time for all to settle. If need be, speak to your child’s teacher and make them aware of the situation.
DROP OFF AND PICK UP POINTS
In the morning students are able to enter the school grounds via the gates on Howard Street from 8.20am onwards. Until 8.35am, children are asked to gather outside the Foundation Learning Community, where they will be supervised by the teacher on duty. The gates at Armstrong Street and the doors into the Columba Wing at Gregory Street will be opened by 8.35am. At 8.35am, children are able to enter their classrooms and organise themselves for the day ahead. The first bell will ring at 8.45am, with all children expected to be in classrooms ready to learn before 8.50am when the second bell will ring. All gates will be locked at first bell 8.45am and you will need to enter via the office. If it is after 8.50 you will be required to come into the office and sign your child/ren in. (Please do not drop your child off without signing them in).
At the end of each day, students can leave the school via the gates on Howard Street, Armstrong Street or Gregory Street. Parents waiting for children at the Howard Street entrance are asked to wait on either the deck or gravel area so as to keep the path free for people entering or leaving the school.
Children must sit and wait to be picked up after school. It is not a time to be playing with sports equipment or on the playground.
We ask that all children be picked up on time. If there is any reason you can’t get here on time please call the office and advise you are running late. All gates are locked at 3.30pm. After this time, parents will need to enter the school via the office to collect their children.
We would also like to remind all parents to be especially careful when dropping off and picking up your children. Please refrain from double parking and please take care when backing out of car spaces to ensure the safety of all children.
MEET & GREET OPPORTUNITIES
Next Wednesday 13th February we will be running Information sessions for parents. This will be an opportunity to introduce yourself to your child’s teacher and find out lots of information about the learning group/community expectations for 2019.
Foundation parents will also have an opportunity to meet one of the Foundation teachers during Numeracy testing which will occur on a number of Wednesdays during this term. Parents will need to book a time for their child, more details to come.
Welcome chats will be held on Tuesday 26th and Wednesday 27th February. These meetings will also provide an opportunity to share information with your child’s teacher, as well as find out how your child has settled into their new learning group and how they are progressing. This is a great opportunity to talk to your child’s teacher about anything you may feel is important for them to know as they work with you throughout the year. It is also a great chance for you to share your hopes and aspirations for your child this year.
If you would like to meet with your child’s teacher at any other time, please write a note in your child’s diary or contact the office and the teacher will arrange an appointment time with you. Please note Tuesday and Wednesdays are meeting nights for staff.
SCHOOL ASSEMBLIES
Assemblies will be held every second Friday afternoon in the school hall usually starting at 2.40pm. At assembly we pray together, share our learning, recognise and affirm achievements and share school news. Assembly normally runs for about 30 minutes. All parents, grandparents and friends are most welcome to attend.
Our first Assembly will be held next Friday 15th February at the earlier starting time of 2.30pm, with LG 2 leading this assembly. At this assembly the 2019 House Captains, Voice Reps, Arts Reps and Environmental Reps will receive their badges.
SCHOOL DIARY
Each child has received a school diary. We ask that this is used by parents and students as a way of communicating with the classroom teacher. Diaries will be checked on a daily basis and returned home. Parents, please encourage your child to use the diary to assist with their organisation and to return it to school every day. Our senior students have diaries containing a lot of reflective tools from the resilience project, it might be beneficial to have a chat with your child about some of these things.
FOUNDATION REST DAY
A reminder that Wednesdays during Term One are Rest Days for the Foundation students unless there is another non- school day in the week. Foundation students will be required to attend school on Wed 13th March due to the Labour Day holiday on Monday 11th March.
LUNCH ORDERS
Lunch orders will begin next Friday the 15th of February. Bodega Cafe will again be supplying our orders this year. New families will receive a hard copy price list and instructions on how to order this week. Existing families will be able to access a lunch order price list via the Skoolbag App.
This year lunch orders MUST be pre-ordered on the Thursday by 9.30am. Children can bring their order in and place it in their lunch order tub in their classroom Thursday morning.
ICY POLES
Icy poles will begin this Friday 8th February. Students are able to purchase an icy pole for $1. Junior students order in their learning groups on Friday morning. 3-6 students purchase their icy pole at the hall kitchen window at 1.30pm.
FEES AND LEVIES 2019
Fee Statements will be sent home next Monday. The account will contain all fees and charges for the year (with the exception of keyboard fees which are charged termly).
We offer a number of payment methods (as outlined in documents sent to families late last year) to families including: cash, cheque, credit card payments, direct debit and you are able to set up EFT payments from your own online banking service. Please note that the school has eftpos facility.
Outstanding fee balances from 2018 will carry forward to this year’s fee statement. Families who foresee any difficulty in meeting payments should contact either Shaun Mohr or Kim Butler to discuss. We may be able to offer Family Fee Assistance support provided by the Catholic Education Office. However, we must receive notification of your circumstances before anything can be initiated.
CAMPS, SPORTS AND EXCURSIONS FUND (CSEF) FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
CSEF is provided by the Victorian Government to assist eligible families to cover the costs of school trips,camps and sporting activities. If you hold a current valid means-tested concession card you may be eligible for CSEF. The allowance is paid to the school to use towards expenses relating to camps, excursions or sporting activities for the benefit of your child.
The annual CSEF amount per student is $125 for primary school students.
How to apply
New applicants should contact the school office to obtain a CSEF application form or download from www.education.vic.gov.au/csef
If you applied for the CSEF at this school in 2018, you do not need to complete an application form in 2019 unless there have been a change in your family circumstances.
You only need to complete an application form if you have:-
PLENARY LISTENING AND DIALOGUE SESSIONS
“Listen to what the Spirit is saying.”
A listening and dialogue session for Catholic school parents
Wednesday 27th February 2019
2 sessions available: 1pm–2.30pm or 5pm–6.30pm
Venue: St Patrick’s Hall, St Patrick’s Cathedral
3 Lyons Street South, Ballarat Central
Cost: Free
Catholic School Parents Victoria would like to invite parents and carers of children who currently attend Catholic schools to one of two Plenary listening and dialogue sessions in Ballarat in February.
This is a unique opportunity for parents/carers to contribute to shaping the future of the Catholic Church in Australia.
What is a Plenary listening and dialogue session?
Plenary listening and dialogue sessions have been organised specifically for parents and carers of children in Catholic schools. This is an opportunity for parents/carers to come together as important members of Catholic school communities to spend time thinking and talking about their experiences of faith, life and the Church. The sessions will be led by an experienced Plenary facilitator from the Diocese of Ballarat and responses will be collected, collated and submitted to the Plenary Council 2020 by Catholic School Parents Victoria.
This is part of CSPV’s ongoing commitment to representing parents and carers of children in Catholic schools across Victoria.
Further information about the Plenary Council 2020 can be found at www.plenarycouncil.catholic.org.au. Parents and carers are able to submit their own responses through this website if they are unable to attend a plenary session.
Who are Catholic School Parents Victoria?
Since 2007, CSPV has been representing the important voice and perspective of Victorian Catholic school parents at a diocesan and state level. CSPV is governed by a council consisting of Catholic school parent representatives from each Catholic diocese in Victoria. The CSPV mission is to empower parent perspective and leadership in Catholic education through partnerships, communication and advocacy.
Changes to Timetable
With some changes to our daily structure and specialist timings this year we are able to return to our previous timetable which allows a 2hr block in the morning, 2hrs in the middle and 1hr for the end of day. This allows us to also accommodate our specialist programs and Tier 2 supports. The change in times only affects the internal working of the day and drop off/pick up time remain the same. With the change in times we are also returning to our preferred lunch times with students going out for break one from 10:50 to 11:20 and then returning to classrooms for a 10 minute eating session. We have found this to promote better eating habits in the students allowing them time to finish their food rather than rushing or disposing of it in order to get outside and play. Break two will be from 1:30 until 2:15 and students will still be able to eat a snack at this time.
Contacting Staff outside of hours
We live in an increasingly accessible world and this brings with it benefits and challenges. One of the biggest challenges for an industry like hours is contactability. Teachers, like everyone else work set hours and in order to perform at their best need personal and family time that is protected. It’s very easy in our current world to shoot off an email or connect to someone through something like facebook messenger. We would ask that parents respect teacher’s personal time and avoid contacting them outside work hours. That quick email about a ‘minor’ incident at 9pm can leave a person awake all night worrying.
Peace Focus
Last year we had a strong focus on gratitude and this helped to shape our work, particularly in RE and through our masses and liturgies but also in our daily interactions. This year our focus is on peace, staff recently took part in a reflection together exploring what peace might mean and how we can live it out in our own lives. When we talk about peace we are talking about more than the idea of no violence, we are exploring the idea of calmness and being comfortable with ourselves. Throughout the year we will be providing more information about what this looks like throughout the school and how we can search for peace within our own lives.
Consent Forms
We still have a number of outstanding consent forms that need to be completed. In order to access these please login to your PAM account and select each individual child. A number of people have completed the forms for one child but not the others in the family. Thanks.
Co-Principalship
This year also see the start of our Co-Principalship model. We will be putting out updates around this throughout the year, from an operational model we wanted to let parents know a few details. Kim will be working on Monday, Tuesday and Thursdays and Shaun will be Monday to Friday. We can both be accessed by emailing principal@scballarat.catholic.edu.au or individually on our own email accounts kbutler@scballarat.catholic.edu.au and smohr@scballarat.catholic.edu.au. As Co-Principals know that conversations had with one will be shared with the other unless specifically requested not to be. For the majority of contact if you ask to see the principal you will be directed to whichever one of us is available at the time. Should you need to see one of us in particular please make an appointment with the office. For more serious issues, please contact the office and we will make a time for both of us to be available. We see the Co-Principal model as having a number of benefits to the school and the Diocese, we also recognise that this is a new mode of working and won’t be without its issues and challenges.
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You are with us in every transition and change.
As we enter into this new school year with excitement and even some anxiety,
we recall your deep compassion, presence, and abounding love.
We thank you for the gifts, talents and skills with which you have blessed us.
We thank you for the experiences that have brought us to this moment.
We thank you for the work of others that gives breadth and depth to our own work.
We thank you for the families who entrust us with the education of their children.
Be with us as we move forward, rejoicing with you, supporting one another and sharing the Good News in our communities.
We ask this in your name. Amen
WELCOME BACK to the start of the 2019 school year and a special welcome to all the new families joining the St Columba’s School community. On Monday we welcomed 51 new students; 48 Foundation students and Keira McDonald and Sienna Brittain into the 5/6 Learning Community and Charlotte Brittain into the 3/4 Learning Community.
As it can be a little daunting when joining any new community, I ask that our current families extend a warm and friendly St Columba’s welcome to our new families.
We also welcome Tim Gilbert and Lucy Quanchi to the staff this year and officially welcome back Emily Mullane from family leave. Lucy is teaching in the 3/4 Learning Community and Tim and Emily are teaching in the 1/2 Learning Community.
The year has started very smoothly, with all children settling into their classroom routines. Walking through the school on Monday morning it was great to see the student’s enthusiasm and excitement at being back at school. There seems to have been a seamless transition with children adjusting to routines very quickly.
At the start of a new school year your child might be feeling a little anxious as they move into a new learning community, learning group or school. If so, please reassure them that everyone is finding things that are new and different. It will take a little time for all to settle. If need be, speak to your child’s teacher and make them aware of the situation.
DROP OFF AND PICK UP POINTS
In the morning students are able to enter the school grounds via the gates on Howard Street from 8.20am onwards. Until 8.35am, children are asked to gather outside the Foundation Learning Community, where they will be supervised by the teacher on duty. The gates at Armstrong Street and the doors into the Columba Wing at Gregory Street will be opened by 8.35am. At 8.35am, children are able to enter their classrooms and organise themselves for the day ahead. The first bell will ring at 8.45am, with all children expected to be in classrooms ready to learn before 8.50am when the second bell will ring. All gates will be locked at first bell 8.45am and you will need to enter via the office. If it is after 8.50 you will be required to come into the office and sign your child/ren in. (Please do not drop your child off without signing them in).
At the end of each day, students can leave the school via the gates on Howard Street, Armstrong Street or Gregory Street. Parents waiting for children at the Howard Street entrance are asked to wait on either the deck or gravel area so as to keep the path free for people entering or leaving the school.
Children must sit and wait to be picked up after school. It is not a time to be playing with sports equipment or on the playground.
We ask that all children be picked up on time. If there is any reason you can’t get here on time please call the office and advise you are running late. All gates are locked at 3.30pm. After this time, parents will need to enter the school via the office to collect their children.
We would also like to remind all parents to be especially careful when dropping off and picking up your children. Please refrain from double parking and please take care when backing out of car spaces to ensure the safety of all children.
MEET & GREET OPPORTUNITIES
Next Wednesday 13th February we will be running Information sessions for parents. This will be an opportunity to introduce yourself to your child’s teacher and find out lots of information about the learning group/community expectations for 2019.
Foundation parents will also have an opportunity to meet one of the Foundation teachers during Numeracy testing which will occur on a number of Wednesdays during this term. Parents will need to book a time for their child, more details to come.
Welcome chats will be held on Tuesday 26th and Wednesday 27th February. These meetings will also provide an opportunity to share information with your child’s teacher, as well as find out how your child has settled into their new learning group and how they are progressing. This is a great opportunity to talk to your child’s teacher about anything you may feel is important for them to know as they work with you throughout the year. It is also a great chance for you to share your hopes and aspirations for your child this year.
If you would like to meet with your child’s teacher at any other time, please write a note in your child’s diary or contact the office and the teacher will arrange an appointment time with you. Please note Tuesday and Wednesdays are meeting nights for staff.
SCHOOL ASSEMBLIES
Assemblies will be held every second Friday afternoon in the school hall usually starting at 2.40pm. At assembly we pray together, share our learning, recognise and affirm achievements and share school news. Assembly normally runs for about 30 minutes. All parents, grandparents and friends are most welcome to attend.
Our first Assembly will be held next Friday 15th February at the earlier starting time of 2.30pm, with LG 2 leading this assembly. At this assembly the 2019 House Captains, Voice Reps, Arts Reps and Environmental Reps will receive their badges.
SCHOOL DIARY
Each child has received a school diary. We ask that this is used by parents and students as a way of communicating with the classroom teacher. Diaries will be checked on a daily basis and returned home. Parents, please encourage your child to use the diary to assist with their organisation and to return it to school every day. Our senior students have diaries containing a lot of reflective tools from the resilience project, it might be beneficial to have a chat with your child about some of these things.
FOUNDATION REST DAY
A reminder that Wednesdays during Term One are Rest Days for the Foundation students unless there is another non- school day in the week. Foundation students will be required to attend school on Wed 13th March due to the Labour Day holiday on Monday 11th March.
LUNCH ORDERS
Lunch orders will begin next Friday the 15th of February. Bodega Cafe will again be supplying our orders this year. New families will receive a hard copy price list and instructions on how to order this week. Existing families will be able to access a lunch order price list via the Skoolbag App.
This year lunch orders MUST be pre-ordered on the Thursday by 9.30am. Children can bring their order in and place it in their lunch order tub in their classroom Thursday morning.
ICY POLES
Icy poles will begin this Friday 8th February. Students are able to purchase an icy pole for $1. Junior students order in their learning groups on Friday morning. 3-6 students purchase their icy pole at the hall kitchen window at 1.30pm.
FEES AND LEVIES 2019
Fee Statements will be sent home next Monday. The account will contain all fees and charges for the year (with the exception of keyboard fees which are charged termly).
We offer a number of payment methods (as outlined in documents sent to families late last year) to families including: cash, cheque, credit card payments, direct debit and you are able to set up EFT payments from your own online banking service. Please note that the school has eftpos facility.
Outstanding fee balances from 2018 will carry forward to this year’s fee statement. Families who foresee any difficulty in meeting payments should contact either Shaun Mohr or Kim Butler to discuss. We may be able to offer Family Fee Assistance support provided by the Catholic Education Office. However, we must receive notification of your circumstances before anything can be initiated.
CAMPS, SPORTS AND EXCURSIONS FUND (CSEF) FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
CSEF is provided by the Victorian Government to assist eligible families to cover the costs of school trips,camps and sporting activities. If you hold a current valid means-tested concession card you may be eligible for CSEF. The allowance is paid to the school to use towards expenses relating to camps, excursions or sporting activities for the benefit of your child.
The annual CSEF amount per student is $125 for primary school students.
How to apply
New applicants should contact the school office to obtain a CSEF application form or download from www.education.vic.gov.au/csef
If you applied for the CSEF at this school in 2018, you do not need to complete an application form in 2019 unless there have been a change in your family circumstances.
You only need to complete an application form if you have:-
- a new student enrolment
- changed family circumstances
PLENARY LISTENING AND DIALOGUE SESSIONS
“Listen to what the Spirit is saying.”
A listening and dialogue session for Catholic school parents
Wednesday 27th February 2019
2 sessions available: 1pm–2.30pm or 5pm–6.30pm
Venue: St Patrick’s Hall, St Patrick’s Cathedral
3 Lyons Street South, Ballarat Central
Cost: Free
Catholic School Parents Victoria would like to invite parents and carers of children who currently attend Catholic schools to one of two Plenary listening and dialogue sessions in Ballarat in February.
This is a unique opportunity for parents/carers to contribute to shaping the future of the Catholic Church in Australia.
What is a Plenary listening and dialogue session?
Plenary listening and dialogue sessions have been organised specifically for parents and carers of children in Catholic schools. This is an opportunity for parents/carers to come together as important members of Catholic school communities to spend time thinking and talking about their experiences of faith, life and the Church. The sessions will be led by an experienced Plenary facilitator from the Diocese of Ballarat and responses will be collected, collated and submitted to the Plenary Council 2020 by Catholic School Parents Victoria.
This is part of CSPV’s ongoing commitment to representing parents and carers of children in Catholic schools across Victoria.
Further information about the Plenary Council 2020 can be found at www.plenarycouncil.catholic.org.au. Parents and carers are able to submit their own responses through this website if they are unable to attend a plenary session.
Who are Catholic School Parents Victoria?
Since 2007, CSPV has been representing the important voice and perspective of Victorian Catholic school parents at a diocesan and state level. CSPV is governed by a council consisting of Catholic school parent representatives from each Catholic diocese in Victoria. The CSPV mission is to empower parent perspective and leadership in Catholic education through partnerships, communication and advocacy.
Changes to Timetable
With some changes to our daily structure and specialist timings this year we are able to return to our previous timetable which allows a 2hr block in the morning, 2hrs in the middle and 1hr for the end of day. This allows us to also accommodate our specialist programs and Tier 2 supports. The change in times only affects the internal working of the day and drop off/pick up time remain the same. With the change in times we are also returning to our preferred lunch times with students going out for break one from 10:50 to 11:20 and then returning to classrooms for a 10 minute eating session. We have found this to promote better eating habits in the students allowing them time to finish their food rather than rushing or disposing of it in order to get outside and play. Break two will be from 1:30 until 2:15 and students will still be able to eat a snack at this time.
Contacting Staff outside of hours
We live in an increasingly accessible world and this brings with it benefits and challenges. One of the biggest challenges for an industry like hours is contactability. Teachers, like everyone else work set hours and in order to perform at their best need personal and family time that is protected. It’s very easy in our current world to shoot off an email or connect to someone through something like facebook messenger. We would ask that parents respect teacher’s personal time and avoid contacting them outside work hours. That quick email about a ‘minor’ incident at 9pm can leave a person awake all night worrying.
Peace Focus
Last year we had a strong focus on gratitude and this helped to shape our work, particularly in RE and through our masses and liturgies but also in our daily interactions. This year our focus is on peace, staff recently took part in a reflection together exploring what peace might mean and how we can live it out in our own lives. When we talk about peace we are talking about more than the idea of no violence, we are exploring the idea of calmness and being comfortable with ourselves. Throughout the year we will be providing more information about what this looks like throughout the school and how we can search for peace within our own lives.
Consent Forms
We still have a number of outstanding consent forms that need to be completed. In order to access these please login to your PAM account and select each individual child. A number of people have completed the forms for one child but not the others in the family. Thanks.
Co-Principalship
This year also see the start of our Co-Principalship model. We will be putting out updates around this throughout the year, from an operational model we wanted to let parents know a few details. Kim will be working on Monday, Tuesday and Thursdays and Shaun will be Monday to Friday. We can both be accessed by emailing principal@scballarat.catholic.edu.au or individually on our own email accounts kbutler@scballarat.catholic.edu.au and smohr@scballarat.catholic.edu.au. As Co-Principals know that conversations had with one will be shared with the other unless specifically requested not to be. For the majority of contact if you ask to see the principal you will be directed to whichever one of us is available at the time. Should you need to see one of us in particular please make an appointment with the office. For more serious issues, please contact the office and we will make a time for both of us to be available. We see the Co-Principal model as having a number of benefits to the school and the Diocese, we also recognise that this is a new mode of working and won’t be without its issues and challenges.
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