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Dear Parents and Carers,
Social / Emotional Development and Learning In the daily life of school there are thousands of exchanges and interactions between students, these occur in the playground, transitioning around the school, and of course during learning time. Many of the interactions are positive and productive and honour our yellow school pillar of 'Looking after each other.' At school assembly each morning we often celebrate these wonderful characteristics of our St Pat's kids.
Sometimes the words and actions between students are not as respectful as we would expect. At school when we are managing these types of interactions we take the view that this is a teaching / learning opportunity. We know as children grow they become more socially aware and able, and generally make fewer mistakes.
School process:
* We listen to the students and they get to recall (or write down) from their perspective what was said and what was done.
* We remind the students that we will listen to each person who was involved.
* We let the students know that the truth of the interaction is somewhere in the centre of all the versions.
How can you help?
As parents, it is natural to want to understand and support your child’s perspective on events they experience. Accepting your child’s version of an event is an important step in validating their feelings and experiences. It shows them that their voice matters and that you are there to listen and support them. However, it is equally important to help them understand that every event can be seen from multiple angles, and the complete truth often lies somewhere in the middle of all the participant versions.
As at school, where we encourage students to share their experiences openly while also teaching them to consider the perspectives of others involved, you at home can use this approach. This helps them develop a balanced view of events and fosters critical thinking. When discussing an event with your child, acknowledge their feelings and version of the story, but gently remind them that others might have different experiences and viewpoints. This can be a valuable lesson in empathy and understanding, helping them to appreciate the complexity of human interactions.
We encourage you to practice this process at home, including by discussing various scenarios and encouraging your child to think about how others might have perceived the same event. You can ask questions like, “How do you think your friend felt about what happened?” or “Why do you think the teacher responded that way?” These conversations can help your child develop a more nuanced understanding of events and learn that the truth is often a blend of different perspectives. Together, let's continue to nurture thoughtful, empathetic children who are capable of seeing the world through multiple lenses.
Blessings,
Jo
Exploring the Diverse Curriculum at Our School
At our school, we believe in nurturing well-rounded students through a rich and varied curriculum. From the wonders of Geography, where students explore the world’s landscapes and cultures, to the inquisitive nature of Science, encouraging curiosity and innovation. Our Visual Arts program inspires creativity and self-expression, while Music brings harmony and rhythm into our students’ lives. Each subject is designed to engage, challenge, and inspire, ensuring our students develop a broad spectrum of skills and knowledge. Join us as we delve into the exciting learning experiences that shape our students’ educational journey!
Visual Arts in 1/2
The Writing Revolution in 3/4
VR in 3/4
Geography in 5/6
Supporting Parents with Screen Time
Signs that your child’s online activity may be having a negative impact on them or on your family include:
- less interest in social activities like meeting friends or playing sport
- not doing so well at school
- tiredness, sleep disturbance, headaches, eye strain
- changes in eating patterns
- reduced personal hygiene
- obsession with particular websites or games
- extreme anger when being asked to take a break from online activity
- appearing anxious or irritable when away from the computer
- becoming withdrawn from friends and family
What to do if you are concerned - Ask questions and listen:
- Some of the behavioural changes described above are a normal part of growing up but, if you are concerned your child is struggling, try to find out why — there may be underlying issues such as cyberbullying, friendship difficulties or mental health issues.
- As part of your conversation, ask your child about how much time they spend online and explain why it is worrying and what they could be missing out on.
- Try not to show that you disapprove or they might shut down communication altogether.
- Talking to your child’s school may also reveal academic or social issues, and the school may also be able to provide support.
Dates for your calendar
Week 9 - No Chapel Mass (Fr. Adrian away)
Christian Meditation
At St Pat's, a part of our weekly prayer may include sessions of Christian Meditation.
One of our St Pat's kids has spent two days this week playing cricket in Wagga. Will Nicholson was trialling for the MacKillop cricket team. Will was selected in the team and will travel to Armidale next month to participate in the NSWPSSA championships. This will be a selection for the NSW team. Will is only 11 so he will also be eligible to trial again next year. He has been spending a lot of time in the nets and the practice has certainly paid off. Will is a very determined and capable sportsman who excels in everything he tries. On top of this he puts in a lot of extra work to ensure he is able to achieve at this high level. Earlier in the year Will made the MacKillop Under 11 Rugby League team. It is a great achievement to make this level in one sport but two sports in one year is an amazing effort! Well done Will we are so proud of you.
Next week another St Pat's student, Remmi, will be competing in the Marcus Oldham National Interschool Championships in Tamworth. She will be riding her pony Andlyn park Titanium in the Primary Working Show Hunter (jump, rider and led).
She’s been working very hard in the lead up to this competition. Good luck from St Pat's Remmi!
Mrs Harnett
ReBoot in Bermagui – Reboot into spring on the long week-end in October - fun for children, families and everyone
“ReBoot in Bermagui – is on the long week-end Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 October 2024 Adults and kids Fun Runs, ocean swims, road bike ride, teams tug-o-war (kids comp too). 9 hole Ambrose golf and mixed netball, free yoga, Tai Chi and Pilates. Come and try SUP, barefoot bowls, tennis, pickle ball and more! Check out the program and register on line at www.rebootinbermagui.com.au or follow us on Instagram. Any queries email us at “rebootinbermagui@gmail.com”
