Newsletter Term 2 Week 6 (7.6.24)

Message from the Assistant Principal Mission - Gemma Ballantine

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We’ve had a number of exciting things happening at St Anthony’s this week. We need to celebrate and acknowledge the students who attended a STEM Competition in Brisbane yesterday. Out of all the schools that competed our St Anthony’s Team came 3rd! This is a great achievement for our St A’s Team, who demonstrated resilience and persistence with challenging tasks that you can’t simply ‘Google’ an answer to. These students gave up every lunch on Mondays and Fridays this Term to form teams and prepare and we are so proud of what they achieved. A huge thank you to Mrs Kirstie Hawkins who gave up her time to coordinate and lead our team. Not only is Mrs Hawkins a talented St Anthony’s teacher, she also has a Science degree, which is an asset to our school community.

Last Friday our Stage 3 students competed in an AFL Gala day. Our teams were successful in getting through to the final against Lindisfarne. Our girls team were the overall champions of the day and Andie Staunton (Yr 6) got player of the day. We are so proud of our teams and wish them luck as they embark to the next level of the competition.

Next week our students will participate in the Verse Speaking Competition as part of the Murwillumbah Performing Arts Festival. All classes will be performing at the Tweed Civic Centre. Years 1, 2, 5 and 6 will perform on Wednesday, June 12, and Kindergarten, Year 3 and Year 4 will perform on Thursday morning (June 13). Families are very welcome to come and watch and details can be found via our Compass and SeeSaw platform. Verse Speaking is a great performance opportunity for our students as they learn about working together as a group, listening to and following prompts and learning how to use their voices and bodies to vividly communicate a story. Thank you to our St Anthony’s Team for preparing the students so well amongst the competing demands of teaching!  Good luck everyone.

Next week we will have futurist and educational leader Tony Ryan checking in on the goals our teachers set around High Potential Learners and extending rigour in learning and teaching at St Anthony’s. Tony Ryan has been a critical friend engaged by the school to help track our 2024 School Improvement Goal around High Potential Learners.

Yesterday we had Deb and Karly from the Family Centre run a Thoughtful Parenting  Workshop. We received great feedback from the attendees, who requested additional workshops and opportunities to connect. Stay tuned for the next round of workshops. 

It has come to our attention that a small number of children in two cohorts have online accounts with social media platforms, including SnapChat and Instagram. If your child is using these platforms they are giving false information about their age and opening themselves to harm online. We ask for your cooperation in keeping your child safe online by ensuring your child does not use social media sites that are not intended to be used by young children and letting us know when issues occur online. 

These resources might help to have conversations with your child: https://www.esafety.gov.au

Important Dates & School Information

Term 2 2024

Monday, 10th June - Public Holiday - No School 

Wednesday, 12th June - Verse Speaking Years 1 & 2: 9.30am to 10.30am

Wednesday, 12th June - Verse Speaking Years 5 & 6: 11 am to 12 pm

Thursday, 13th June - St Anthony's Day - WHOLE SCHOOL MASS

Thursday, 13th June - Verse Speaking Kindergarten: 9.30 am to 10.30 am

Thursday, 13th June - Verse Speaking Year 3 & 4: 10.30 am to 11.30 am

Sunday, 16th June - School MASS - First Communion

Tuesday, 18th June - Athletics Carnival

Sunday, 23rd June - Parish Mass and First Communion

Monday, 24th June - MSP School Photo Day

Wednesday, 3rd July - Orator's Evening 

Term 3 2024

Monday, 22nd July - Pupil Free Day - No school

Child Protection Policy can be found on our School Website under Information/School Policies: St Anthony's Primary School Website or in the following link: https://www.kngplism.catholic.edu.au/policies

Something to think and pray about

The Glory of Our Being

So many fail to see the glory and beauty of their inner being. Many people get caught up in the messiness and imperfection encountered in life and in themselves. That messiness and imperfection can be mistaken for failure, ugliness or even a reason to hate.

When we’re in that mode, we fail to see how complex, well-ordered and smooth we are at our heart and core. We have been created and are being created daily as well. Not only that, but the One who creates us loves us and wants to be in dialogue with us. It is possible to take our feelings of messiness and imperfection to our Creator and to understand that our Creator is with us even, and maybe especially, in those times.

Excerpted from Deeper Into The Mess: Praying Through Tough Times  by Brendan McManus SJ and Jim Deeds (p.15)

We Remember At This Time…

We think of all those involved in and affected by the conflict in the Middle East and pray that the Spirit of Peace would reign there, touching each and every heart, and bring about love, unity and peace in a deep and lasting way. Lord, come and heal all nations and heal all your wounded people. Amen.

https://sacredspace.com/

The 2024 Premier's Reading Challenge is open!

Dear Parents and Carers,

All children at St Anthony’s are invited to take part in this year's NSW Premier's Reading Challenge (PRC). This is a program that encourages students to read quality fiction and non-fiction books from a selected list nominated by the premier's office.

What does the challenge involve?

To become involved in the challenge, Kindergarten to Year 2 students need to experience 30 books, 20 of these books need to come from the K-2 PRC booklists. 10 books can be their own free choice. Children can read the books on their own OR be read to by parents/carers. 

For years 3-6, students need to read 20 books, 10 of these books must be on the PRC booklist and 10 books can be their own free choice.

PRC books can be found in our school library, at home and in local council libraries. For the PRC booklists, please visit:  https://online.det.nsw.edu.au/prc/booklist/home.html

All books need to be read and recorded online by 23rd August 2024 (by 11:59 pm).  Students will receive a certificate from the PRC team on completion. PRC Certificates will be awarded in Term 4.

Further information is contained on the PRC website including the booklist for each level of the challenge: https://online.det.nsw.edu.au/prc/rules.html

How to register and record books online:

Students can begin their reading now! Follow the below instructions to log on and begin registering your books:

1. Go to the PRC website https://online.det.nsw.edu.au/prc/home.html or Google Premier's Reading Challenge NSW 2023.
2. Click on the yellow ‘PRC Student Site’ box then select the "log on" button at the top right-hand corner of the page.
3. Enter the student's username and password. If you have forgotten details or are registering for the first time please email lauren.plunkett@lism.catholic.edu.au and a username and password will be generated and emailed to you. 
4. Enter the PRC ID code for each book the student has read. You can search for books on the website.

Please feel free to contact Mrs Plunkett if you have any questions, and look out for more information about the PRC in our School Newsletter, library displays and awards throughout the term. 

Happy reading!

Mrs Plunkett

PRC Coordinator

Woodwork Program 2024

The St Anthony’s Woodwork Program has been progressing strongly this year. Students from Years 5 and 6, have been engaging in various basic woodwork projects during each week and enjoying experiencing a range of new skills. Students from other Grades are able to access the “Shed” during some lunchtimes as well and whenever the roll-a-door is opened, it becomes a hive of activity.

We do have a problem though; our container shed has sprung a “leak” or “leaks” in the metal roof. We are in search of a tradie parent who may be a roofer who is able to assist in the repair of the metal roof. 

Please contact Paul Monahan, or leave your contact at the office.

The woodwork program is a fantastic initiative for our students and any donations of timber, furniture pieces or trade knowledge would always be most appreciated.

Kind regards,

Paul Monahan

Important Notice Regarding Dogs on School Grounds

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We hope this message finds you well. As part of our commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all students, staff, and visitors, we would like to remind you of the regulations concerning dogs on school premises as outlined in the Companion Animals Act 1998 (NSW, Section 14).

Dogs on School Grounds

According to the Companion Animals Act, dogs are generally prohibited on school grounds unless the principal has granted specific permission. Such permissions are typically reserved for:

• Assistance or service dogs
• Farm working dogs
• Visits by organised groups or programs for school incursions
• School support dogs

We understand that many families enjoy walking their dogs during school drop-off and pick-up times. However, we kindly ask that dogs remain outside the school gates. You are welcome to wait with your dog just outside the gate and arrange for your child to meet you there. This practice helps us ensure the safety and comfort of all students, particularly those who may have allergies or a fear of dogs.

Important Points for Consideration

Responsibility: Only individuals aged 18 or over can be responsible for a dog, as stated in the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTAA).

Procedural Fairness: Schools are obligated to consult with parents and consider all relevant information before making decisions regarding assistance dogs.

Health and Safety: Our priority is to maintain a safe environment for everyone on school grounds.

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding in adhering to these guidelines. By keeping our school grounds dog-free, except for authorised circumstances, we can ensure a safer and more inclusive environment for all students.

This notice aligns with our commitment to safety and compliance with state legislation. Your cooperation is crucial in maintaining a welcoming and secure environment for our school community.

If you have any questions or need further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact the school administration.

Thank you for your support in this matter.

Sports News

NSWCPS Cross Country

Congratulations to Frankie Fogg of Year 3 who competed at the NSWCPS Cross Country on Wednesday at the State Equestrian Centre in Sydney. 

Frankie won her race, the 8/9 Years Girls Multi-Class, in an impressive time of 14 minutes and 8 seconds. 

Frankie will now progress to the next level and represent Polding at the NSWPSSA Cross Country at the end of July.

Good luck Frankie, St Anthony’s can’t wait to hear how you go.

AFL Gala Day

On Friday 31st May both a boys and a girls St Anthony’s AFL team travelled to Byron Bay to compete in the 2024 AFLQ StreetSmart Primary School Gala Day.

Both teams trained hard at lunchtimes before the competition. Many of the players were not AFL players, but from different sports. They are to be congratulated on their commitment to the team and learning all the necessary skills and techniques to play on the day to the best of their abilities.

Both teams won all their round games, many convincingly, and made the Grand Final undefeated.

The boys unfortunately couldn’t come away with the win in the Grand Final against Lindesfarne, but are to be congratulated on their effort throughout the day.

The girls beat Lindesfarne in their Grand Final 20-2. What an amazing achievement! Special mention to Andie Staunton of Year 6 who was awarded Most Valuable Player of the day for the girls division.

Both teams now progress to the next stage of the AFLQ Primary Schools Cup.

Many thanks to Mr Rogers and Mr Judd who gave up their time and trained both teams at lunchtime leading up to the day.

Thanks also to Mr Caine who helped run the boys team in Byron Bay.

Athletics Reminders

Please read the following information carefully regarding the Athletics Carnival on Tuesday 18th June:

1500m Zone Trials -

If your child would like to be considered to attend the Tweed Zone 1500m trials at St Joseph’s College Oval on Tuesday 2nd July (Week 10), after school at 4pm, they are required to submit a time through the St Anthony’s email before the end of Week 9, Friday 21st June. This time must be certified by a running coach or Little Athletics coach. The top 2 times for each age group of boys and girls will be invited to attend the trials.

The age groups are:

• 8, 9 and 10 Years (Junior) Boys and Girls
• 11 Years Boys and Girls
• 12/13 Years Boys and Girls

Please email certified times to: sapkings@lism.catholic.edu.au

Shot Put

This will be run during Sports Athletics classes at school on Tuesday 11th June, Week 7. Sign ups for this event have started in class groups. This is a competitive event that is not compulsory and is ONLY FOR 8 YEARS and OLDER.

800m

Sign ups for the 800m races have taken place in class groups this week.

The 800m is a competitive race for ages 8 to 12/13 Years. The race is ran in the following age groups:

• Junior boys and girls: 8, 9 and 10 Years
• 11 Years boys and girls
• Senior boys and girls: 12 & 13 Years

This year the race will be run at 8:30am sharp at the Walter Peate Oval, Murphy’s Road Kingscliff. If your child nominates for this event they will be required to arrive no later than 8:15am at the Athletics complex.

Transport will be the responsibility of parents.

By starting this event early it will ensure all events are finished on the day in time for the House Relay.

More information will be sent out closer to the event.

Competitive High Jump and Discus

Sign ups for Competitive High Jump and Discus Have taken place in classroom groups this week.This is a competitive event, is NOT compulsory and is ONLY FOR 8 YEARS and OLDER. These events will be run at the Athletics Carnival.

All other students will compete in Non-competitive High Jump and Discus for house points at the carnival.

2024 Athletics Carnival

The 2024 Athletics Carnival will be held on Tuesday 18th June at Walter Peate Reserve, Kingsclif

• The Carnival will commence at 9am and conclude at approx. 2pm
• The students will travel by bus to and from the Athletics oval. 
• Those students that have signed up for competitive 800m, this will begin at 8:30am (starting with 12/13 Year Age group) at Walter Peate Oval, Murphy’s Road Kingscliff. If your child nominates for this event they will be required to arrive no later than 8:15am at the Athletics complex. Transport to the oval for this event will be the responsibility of parents.More information will be provided for those competitive runners who sign up.
• All students will need HATS and labelled drink bottles. Students may wear either their house colours (no singlets) or sports uniform. Sunblock will be supplied and students will be reminded to re-apply. 
• Whilst all events (except 800m) are run at our carnival in age groups from 8-13 years, many events at zone are junior, 11’s and senior. This means 8, 9 and 10 year olds compete against each other so your child may win their age division at the school carnival but NOT make zone.
• Infants students will participate in non-competitive fun events. All Year 2 students who are 7 and do not turn 8 this year will be with the Yr 1 group.
• Students who are 8 Years and older are asked to remain at the carnival until AFTER THE RELAYS ARE COMPLETED. 
• If you are collecting your child from the carnival, please see the recording desk. Parents MAY NOT collect other people’s children without prior written permission. 
• STUDENTS CANNOT ORDER THEIR LUNCH ONLINE AS THIS SERVICE WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE. A CANTEEN WILL BE OPERATING ON THE DAY.
• Parents are welcome to attend the carnival. Please do not approach Teachers or Dance Fever instructors while an event is being run. It is asked that all parents keep an appropriate spectating distance from officials and students AND THE RUNNING TRACK while events are carried out.
• Thank you in advance!

Successful students will be notified by note to attend the Tweed Zone Carnival at Walter Peate Reserve, Kingscliff on Friday 2nd August, Term 3.

The diocesan carnival is in Coffs Harbour on Friday 16th August.

Our Library - May

SCHOOL PHOTO DAY

THIS WEEK AT FLYING START

It has been another busy week at Flying Start Preschool. Each morning, we engage in activities that strengthen our gross motor skills while having great fun. This week, we played Red River Crossover and some games of soccer. 

Our week also began with celebrating Mabo Day on Monday, during which we explored different art forms and read a book about Dreamtime stories.

We are working hard at preschool on solving our own small problems, and by doing this, we will send our pre-schoolers off to school equipped with social skills and problem-solving skills to build on in future years.

Another week was also enjoyed with the kindy children playing games and spending time in their classroom. This gives us valuable time to build relationships for next year.

Misc News

Parish Information and News

Parish Priest: Fr Paul McDonald

Finance Manager: Paul Crouch

Parish Secretary: Marty Darragh

Pastoral Assistant: Catherine Holliday

Phone: 0266741368

Email: parkings@bigpond.com

Website: http://stanthonysparishkingslciff.org

WEEKEND MASS TIMES
VIGIL: KINGSCLIFF 5:00pm
SUNDAY:POTTSVILLE 7:30am
KINGSCLIFF 9:00am

WEEKDAY MASS TIMES
TUESDAY: POTTSVILLE 9:15am
WEDNESDAY: KINGSCLIFF 8:00am
THURSDAY: KINGSCLIFF 9:00am
FRIDAY: KINGSCLIFF 8:00am

RECONCILIATION TIMES

SATURDAY: KINGSCLIFF4:00-4:30pm
SUNDAY: POTTSVILLE 7:00—7:25am

Current Office Hours: Tuesday - Thursday 9am-3pm

PARISH NEWSLETTER LINK: http://stanthonysparishkingscliff.org/news-events/

St Anthony's Parish - Care Group

Many parents may have noticed from the Parish Bulletin, that the Parish has a Care Group which, among other things seeks to provide meals to any parishoners in need.

This could include times of family sickness, new mums struggling to provide for the family in the early days of returning home, and many other circumstances of genuine need.

Please be aware that the Care Group is very willing to help out if any families find themselves in need of this service.

Contact: Parish Office: 0266 741 284 or Maree Moore 0439 174 116