Our school is  a place of faith and learning

“From the first moment that a student sets foot in a Catholic school, he or she ought to have the impression of entering a new environment, one illuminated by the light of faith, and having its own unique characteristics. The inspiration of Jesus must be translated from the ideal into the real. The Gospel spirit should be evident in a Christian way of thought and life which permeates all facets of the educational climate”. 

Dear Parents and Families,

This week, we acknowledge Child Safety Week and continue to educate children about identifying their safe and trusted persons. We pray that each child feels safe and valued within the different spaces they play, learn and live and have the courage to speak up when feeling uncomfortable, unsafe or vulnerable. 

Maker’s  Empire Project: A huge congratulations to all our Year 5&6 students, teachers Maria Etheridge Michelle Glover and Learning Support Officer Kylie Henry for their enthusiasm in the Maker’s Project Competition. Throughout this term, teams of students have been busy designing and printing 3D projects during Digi Tech & Art sessions and their own lunchtimes. They will have the chance to showcase their projects next week and we hope you can join us. Please find details included within today's newsletter.

Hooptime: Congratulations go to all our students who participated in Hooptime basketball yesterday. We congratulate our Year 5 and 6 girls for winning the competition and progressing to the next level of the competition. A very special congratulations to our boys also who put their best efforts forward and represented our school with pride.

PJ Day: A sincere thankyou to everyone for supporting our PJ Day for Foster Kids. Your donations are appreciated. We hope our children understand how fortunate they are to have a nurturing home environment and are appreciative of the love and care provided by their families.

Classes for 2025: Please know that the Consultative Committee has been meeting and is continuing to discuss the options for class structures heading into the 2025 year. Once determined, teachers will work towards student classes for 2025.

Students Leaving: Families who may be leaving are asked to notify the school so that student numbers can be determined for 2025. We have a number of families on waiting lists who are keen to know if they have a place at St Thomas’ next year. These figures are also required for budgeting purposes.

Father’s Day Celebrations: We are truly grateful to the many dads who were able to attend our celebrations. A great morning was had by all and it was wonderful to see so many dads and special friends remain behind to attend classes with their children.  

Footy Colours Day: Our next celebration is Footy Colours Day which will take place next Friday Sept 13th. We look forward to seeing an array of colours and enjoying Finals Fever.

COLOUR RUN: A Colour Run will be held in Term Four. We will confirm a date with families at the start of the new school term.

Prayer for the Week

Dear Father in heaven, 

You are always near to us on earth, and we thank you for all the love you put into our lives so that we can be joyful, even in all kinds of temptations and struggles. How much you have given us and how often you have rescued us. Again and again, you have let the light of life shine out. You give us light not only for the moment but also for the future, enabling us to draw strength and assurance from the present, the past, and into the future. Be our hope, when the world around us fails to shine your light.

Amen.

Enjoy your weekend .

Anita & Staff

2024 SCHOOL TERM DATES

Thank you to all our tuckshop volunteers!

Time: 12.35pm - 2pm

 If you need to swap your allocated day, please contact another volunteer to make arrangements. The office should only be contacted as a last resort.

We have a number of items available in the second hand uniform shop. To purchase or check out what's available please contact Anna Baynes on 0419117649.

A Special Report: Healthy Study Habits

In today's world, where distractions are abundant and the pressure to excel is high, guiding children to develop healthy study habits is more important than ever. As students aspire to achieve academic success, the cornerstone of that achievement lies not just in their intelligence or drive, but in the study habits they cultivate.

It's essential for students to recognise that good study habits aren't merely about spending extra hours hitting the books. It's more about quality over quantity and having a more balanced approach. Emphasising the value of a routine is essential. Consistent study times establish a sense of structure and discipline, turning studying into a natural part of their daily routine rather than a burdensome task.

Additionally, how students approach their study sessions is equally important. Taking regular breaks is a crucial part of this process in maintaining focus and preventing burnout.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, and consistent physical activity are indispensable elements that will significantly impact your child's ability to study effectively. Fostering these healthy habits is one of the most valuable gifts we can offer children, paving the way for a lifetime of learning and achievement.

This Special Report will help you support your young person as they embark on studying for exams.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to your special report:
https://sttsale.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-healthy-study-habits-au