Dear Parents and Carers,

Thank you to everyone for your support through encouragement or money to the St Pat's team who completed the 3 Day Sudsy Challenge for Orange Sky. We were so impressed with the number of St Pat's kids who chose to participate! Teaching about Social Justice and then responding to the needs of others is important to us living out our faith.

A big St Pat's congratulations to all our students who competed on Tuesday in the Archdiocesan Athletics Carnival! Special congratulations to those students who will now compete in Sydney at the end of September.

UNIFORM REMINDERS

Why do we have uniforms and uniform rules? Uniforms can help eliminate distractions related to fashion, allowing students to focus more on learning and personal growth. They promote equality by reducing socioeconomic disparities, ensuring that all students feel included and valued. When students wear their uniforms with pride, they represent not only themselves but also the values and standards of our school community. This sense of pride and responsibility can inspire them to strive for excellence in all their endeavours. Thank you for supporting your child to wear full correct uniform to school each day.

Jewellery at St Patrick's Some children are starting to wear anklets, chains, bracelets and hanging earrings to school. Thank you for supporting your child to only wear these items of jewellery to school.

* a watch

* a chain with a cross or holy medal

* plain sleepers or stud earrings

* a plain signet ring

All other jewellery is to please stay at home.

* Nailpolish is not to be worn.

* Hair ties are to be in school uniform colours. 

Father's Day Today we once again celebrated all fathers and father figures at our Father's Day Breakfast. It is a lovely annual opportunity for us to thank our dads for all they do for us. We are grateful once again for the support of the Men of St Patrick group who cooked up a storm and graciously served the breakfast. 

Blessings,

Jo

Learning Out and About 

As I strolled through the bustling school this week, my senses attuned to the hum of learning. The walls whispered stories of curiosity, and the air carried the fragrance of freshly sharpened pencils. As I peeked into classrooms, I saw teachers orchestrating magic—students huddled in animated discussions, eyes alight with understanding.

During the Footsteps session on Wednesday, I saw future educators. 

Year 1 were videoing each other to practice fluency. 

Year 3/4 were exploring sun movements and time making sundials. 

School Drop Off

A friendly reminder to parents that the school gates open at 8:30am for drop off. If you need to drop your child/ren off earlier please touch base with the Principal to arrange. If your chil/ren is dropped off after 9am please remind them to go to the office to ensure they are signed in/marked present. 

Dates for your calendar

Class Chapel Mass, Week 7- 3/4Y

Class Chapel Mass, Week 8- 3/4G

Day for Daniel- 25th October

Day for Daniel 

On the 25th October, St Pat's students will wear Red for Day for Daniel, an important event dedicated to promoting child safety awareness. Held annually, this day honors the memory of Daniel Morcombe, a young boy whose tragic story has inspired a nationwide movement. The purpose of Day for Daniel is to educate children and communities about personal safety, empowering them with the knowledge and skills to stay safe. Through various activities and educational programs, we aim to create a safer environment for all children. Let’s come together to support this vital cause and ensure the safety of our young ones.

Sudsy Challenge

This week, on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, several staff and many students commited to wearing the same clothes for 3 days straight to raise funds and awareness for Orange Sky- an organisation that provides access to free laundry, warm showers and genuine conversation for those experiencing homelessness. Donations will continue to be open over the coming weeks if you would like to make a small donation to this worthwhile cause. https://www.thesudsychallenge.com.au/fundraisers/stpatssudsychallengers

Father's Day

It was lovely to see so many families join us at our Father's Day breakfast, to celebrate all of our amazing fathers and father figures. 

Limited Menu Monday 2nd September

Recess

Croissants

Muffins

Chips, and frozen snacks

Fruit salad and vanilla yoghurt (DF Avail.)

Lunch Hot Foods

Chicken Burgers

Sausage Rolls

Nuggets

On Tuesday I travelled to Canberra with the Southern Region Athletics Team. Eighteen St Pat's kids were part of the team and they were all wonderful ambassadors for our school. There were some 'first-timers' and some 'last-timers' and some who are 'regular representatives.' On the day there were also some disappointments as well as personal bests. From our 18 reps, five students from St Pat's were selected as part of the Canberra Goulburn team who will compete in Sydney at the MacKillop trials towards the end of term.

I proudly announce that St Pat's has two age champions at the diocesan level! Arly was named Senior girl champion and Archie was awarded 11yr boy champion. Out of all the schools St Pat's Bega was the only school to achieve 2 champions. A great effort for a small school, in competition with 20 or more schools. Arly won the long jump and the 12yr girls 100m (almost the record) She was a close 2^nd in the 200m to the girl who broke the previous record. Her 1500m time came in 3^rd. Archie was 2^nd in the 11yr boys 100m, 2^nd in the high jump, 2^nd in the long jump and 3^rd in the 200m.Archie and Arly will be going to Sydney as will Thea, Aidan and Amelia. Thea won the 9yr girls 100m, Aidan won the senior boys 200m and was second in the 100m, Amelia won the 13yr girls 100m and broke the previous record.

Only the first two place getters make it to Sydney. Jayden placed 3^rd in both the 11yr discus and shot put. He received ribbons and is reserve for Sydney. The day was much longer than usual and there was a lot of waiting. Thank you to the parents who travelled to get their children there. It's a big commitment when you live in the country and without the parents dedication these children wouldn't have the chances they do.

Good luck to our five athletes moving forward. I feel so lucky and privileged that I get to travel with our children to sporting events.

Mrs Harnett