Dear Parents and Carers,

Welcome: This week it has been wonderful to welcome 4 new students to St Patrick's. Meeval (Kinder), Angelo (Year 1), Anatsa (Year 1), and Aneisha (Year 3) have been happily welcomed by their teachers and classmates. We are delighted to have these new families in our school community.

MacKillop Athletics Championships Congratulations to the 5 St Pat's students: Amelia, Arly, Aidan, Archie, and Thea who competed at the MacKillop Athletics Championships in Sydney on Wednesday. We are so proud of you! A special congratulations to Amelia who won the 13 year girl 100m event.

As we approach the school holidays, it’s a wonderful opportunity to keep the joy of reading and learning alive at home! Here are some fun and engaging ways to encourage your children to explore new worlds through books and activities:

1. Reading Challenges: Create a holiday reading challenge! Set a goal for the number of books to read and reward your child with small prizes or a special outing when they reach their target.

2. Storytime Adventures: Turn reading into an adventure! Choose a theme (like space or animals) and read books related to that theme. You can even dress up or create crafts that relate to the stories.

3. Library Visit: Make a trip to our Bega library to stock up on some books and check out if there is a holiday program to suit your children.

4. Book Clubs: Encourage your child to start a mini book club with friends. They can choose a book to read together and discuss it over snacks—what a great way to build social skills!

5. Interactive Learning: Incorporate educational games and apps that promote reading and critical thinking. Many online resources offer interactive stories and quizzes that make learning fun.

6. Family Reading Time: Set aside time each day for family reading. Everyone can choose their own book, or you can read a chapter book together, taking turns to read aloud.

7. Creative Writing: Encourage your child to write their own stories or keep a holiday journal. This not only enhances their writing skills but also allows them to express their creativity.

By integrating these activities into your holiday routine, we can ensure that our children continue to grow as enthusiastic learners. Thank you for your support in fostering a love of reading!

Happy holiday!

Blessings

Jo

The school holidays are a wonderful time for students to relax and recharge. It’s also a great opportunity to engage in activities that nurture their faith and bring them closer to God. Here are some meaningful and enjoyable activities that students can do at home during the holidays.

1. Daily Prayer Routine:

   • Establish a daily prayer routine, including morning and evening prayers. Use a prayer journal to write down intentions and reflections.

2. Bible Reading and Reflection:

   • Read a passage from the Bible each day and reflect on its meaning. Students can write their thoughts in a journal or discuss them with family members.

3. Create a Prayer Corner:

   • Set up a small prayer corner at home with a crucifix, candles, and religious images. This can be a special place for personal prayer and meditation.

4. Saints’ Stories and Crafts:

   • Learn about different saints and their lives. Create crafts or drawings inspired by their stories. For example, make a St. Francis of Assisi bird feeder or a St. Joseph carpenter’s tool set.

5. Rosary Making:

   • Make your own rosary using beads and string. This can be a fun and creative way to learn about the mysteries of the rosary and how to pray it.

6. Service Projects:

   • Engage in small service projects at home, such as making care packages for the homeless, writing letters to the elderly, or helping with household chores.

7. Virtual Pilgrimages:

   • Take virtual tours of famous Catholic sites around the world, such as the Vatican, Lourdes, or the Holy Land. Learn about their significance and history.

These activities can help students stay connected to their faith and continue learning about Catholic traditions even while they are at home.

Enjoy the holidays and may they be filled with faith and joy!

Mel Ferris

Important Notice: Reduced Canteen Menu Next Term

Based on our recent canteen survey and a shortage of volunteers, we will be offering a reduced menu next term.

While we understand this may be inconvenient, we are committed to ensuring that the canteen continues to provide nutritious and tasty options for our students. We appreciate your understanding and support during this time.

Options that will still be available:

• Frozen Yogurt
• Icy Poles
• Popcorn/chips
• Muffins
• Croissants
• Burgers
• Sausage Rolls
• Nuggets
• Drinks - Milk & Juice Poppers

If you are interested in volunteering or know someone who might be, please contact the school office. Every bit of help makes a big difference!

Thank you for your cooperation.