Dear Parents/Carers,                                                                        

It is the Sunday before the newsletter goes out. I have just returned from mass to write this newsletter as the gospel reminded me about the importance of a teacher’s work, which is my work, and is especially important to reflect on as we move into fete week.

The Gospel was from John’s Gospel (13:31-35), where Jesus says:

“I shall not be with you much longer.

I give you a new commandment:

love one another;

just as I have loved you…

By this love you have for one another,

everyone will know that you are my disciples.”

When things are challenging for the children at school, I constantly remind them of this love, which is not the “mum and dad” love but the “Jesus” love. Until you have children of your own, I genuinely believe one can never really understand the love of a parent for their child. However, the “Jesus” love is something we can all share with each other. This is all about care for another human being, even your enemy! This is the love you show for another when it is something that is wrapped in forgiveness. This is the type of love that focuses on the better good of all, rather than your own needs. If we, as teachers, aren't able to share this with the children and each other (we can be the greatest academic, get the best results at university) we will fail miserably as an educator because first base is to be able to portray this message to the children in action, before any learning can happen.

So what has this got to do with the St Paul’s fete this Saturday? The real gift of the fete isn’t the money raised—it’s the love and effort that each person puts in to make it a success. This love, demonstrated through action, creates lasting memories for the children. They’ll carry the spirit of the fete with them long after they leave St. Paul’s, returning years later as parents to relive the experience.

Our teachers also play a big part in this tradition, volunteering their time, helping at stalls, and ensuring the fete remains a cherished part of our school culture. Together, as a community, we create something special that goes beyond what can be measured in dollars.

The St Paul’s Fete is about the “Jesus” love displayed by all  that keeps us together in community. Recently, a student asked me how they could show their teacher how much they were loved. It’s a tough question to answer because love, in its purest form, can’t always be put into words. But after Mass this Sunday, I realised the answer lies in our actions. 

Thank you to everyone who contributes to making this such a wonderful event. I look forward to seeing you all there!

Go Gently,         

Why are we sharing this information?

Have Your Say – Last Chance to Complete the School Survey!

We value your feedback and want to hear from you! The school survey is a vital tool that helps us understand what we're doing well and where we can improve. Your voice matters, and this is your final opportunity to share your thoughts.

Whether it's about communication, teaching and learning, wellbeing, or community involvement – every response helps us shape a better school experience for our students and families.

The survey closes THIS WEEK, so don’t miss out – complete it today!

Thank you for taking the time to support our school.

At our school, Positive Behaviour for Learning (PB4L) is a key framework that supports our students in developing respectful, responsible, and safe behaviours. You may have heard your child talk about our behaviour expectations and acknowledgements, but you might wonder how we decide what areas to focus on.

PB4L targets are determined by carefully analysing behaviour data collected across the school. This includes information about the frequency, type, and location of behaviours that require support. We look for patterns in this data to identify where and when students need the most guidance, whether that’s during transitions, in the playground, or within specific year groups.

We also consider the social and emotional needs unique to our student community. Our fortnightly targets are shaped not just by numbers, but by what we know about our students’ experiences, strengths, and challenges. This helps us ensure our PB4L focus areas are relevant and meaningful.

Once a target area is identified, we design short, focused lessons to explicitly teach the expected behaviours in that setting or a variety of settings. These lessons are reinforced through consistent language, visual reminders, and a school-wide acknowledgement system.

By using data in this way, PB4L helps us make informed decisions that directly benefit our students and promote a positive school culture. 

For example, this fortnight our target has been walking quietly in lines when moving around the school.  Walking quietly in lines is part of how we support a calm, respectful, and safe learning environment.  Quiet transitions help prevent disruptions and show respect for others.

Walking in a calm, quiet line also supports students in regulating their energy and preparing to return to the classroom ready to learn. It allows staff to supervise effectively and ensures that all students move safely and smoothly through the school.

St Paul's School Fete Raffle - Tickets Now Live

Our annual school fete is just around the corner, and we need your support to make it a huge success! By purchasing raffle tickets, you not only get a chance to win amazing prizes but also contribute to enriching our children's educational experience.

To purchase tickets please visit the link below or scan the QR code. 

St Paul's Fete Raffle Tickets

P&F Meeting - Wednesday, 28 May 2025

The P&F invite you to the upcoming Parents and Friends (P&F) meeting. Your participation is vital in shaping the future of our school community.

Why Attend? 

• Voice Your Ideas: Share your thoughts and suggestions on school initiatives and events.
• Stay Informed: Get updates on school activities, projects, and plans.
• Build Connections: Meet other parents and staff, and strengthen our school community.

Meeting Details:

• Date: Wednesday, 28 May 2025
• Time: 7:00pm
• Location: School Hall

Your involvement makes a significant impact. Whether you're a regular attendee or new to the P&F, we welcome your presence and ideas.

Corpus Christi Event

The Parish of Our Lady Help of Christians invites you to join us for the Corpus Christi Event! If you're seeking a deeper understanding of the Eucharist, the origins of the Mass or want to deepen your faith then this day is for you! You will never celebrate Mass again the same way!

Join us Sunday 22 June (10am to 3:30pm) at Our Lady Help of Christian's St. Joachim Hall (adjacent to the Our Lady Help of Christians Primary School) (80A Demetrius Rd, Rosemeadow). Please note: 

We welcome all adults over 18. Any person under the age of 18 must attend with a parent or legal guardian. Due to content and nature of material the minimum age of attendees is 14 years. For more information on the day and to register please use the QR code provided.

Corpus Christi Event 2025 https://app.tickets.org.au/DOW/CORPUSCHRISTI