Fire Carriers
By Melissa Campbell and Aaron Connolly
FIRE Carriers is an initiative of Vicki Clark, former coordinator at Aboriginal Catholic Ministry (ACM) and is under the umbrella of the Archdiocese of Melbourne.
The purpose of the FIRE Carrier initiative in schools is to promote reconciliation through education. Understanding our First Australians, their culture, history, contemporary life and their spirituality. It is about is about helping students to gain knowledge and understanding.
We don’t ‘preach their faith’, but we do draw parallels with our Catholic faith, stories and symbols. There are many parallels between our Bible stories of creation and Aboriginal Dreamtime stories. Highlighting these similarities is how we help our students make connections.
Aboriginal spirituality is unique as it belongs to a culture which scientifically dates back to over 80,000 years. Their place in our world today is unique making it critically important for our students to make those connections in order to gain knowledge and understanding.
Year 5 students are commissioned as FIRE Carriers at the start of each year. This is not a Catholic ceremony but one of Aboriginal cultural significance. During the ceremony the students are bestowed the gift of FIRE (Friends Igniting Reconciliation in Education) from the previous year's FIRE Carriers. The ceremony itself has been developed by the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry. FIRE Carrier Teacher Leaders are given a script to follow to ensure the meaning and significance remains as it was intended.
As we move towards National Reconciliation Week (May 27 - June 3), we look to our FIRE Carriers and other leaders in our community to help us further our knowledge and understanding. It is also timely for as to look inward and explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
If you would like further information about the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry, please visit their website https://www.cam.org.au/acmv.
For more information about National Reconciliation Week, please visit their website https://www.reconciliation.org.au/national-reconciliation-week/.
Fire Carriers
FIRE Carriers is an initiative of Vicki Clark, former coordinator at Aboriginal Catholic Ministry (ACM) and is under the umbrella of the Archdiocese of Melbourne.
The purpose of the FIRE Carrier initiative in schools is to promote reconciliation through education. Understanding our First Australians, their culture, history, contemporary life and their spirituality. It is about is about helping students to gain knowledge and understanding.
We don’t ‘preach their faith’, but we do draw parallels with our Catholic faith, stories and symbols. There are many parallels between our Bible stories of creation and Aboriginal Dreamtime stories. Highlighting these similarities is how we help our students make connections.
Aboriginal spirituality is unique as it belongs to a culture which scientifically dates back to over 80,000 years. Their place in our world today is unique making it critically important for our students to make those connections in order to gain knowledge and understanding.
Year 5 students are commissioned as FIRE Carriers at the start of each year. This is not a Catholic ceremony but one of Aboriginal cultural significance. During the ceremony the students are bestowed the gift of FIRE (Friends Igniting Reconciliation in Education) from the previous year's FIRE Carriers. The ceremony itself has been developed by the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry. FIRE Carrier Teacher Leaders are given a script to follow to ensure the meaning and significance remains as it was intended.
As we move towards National Reconciliation Week (May 27 - June 3), we look to our FIRE Carriers and other leaders in our community to help us further our knowledge and understanding. It is also timely for as to look inward and explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
If you would like further information about the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry, please visit their website https://www.cam.org.au/acmv.
For more information about National Reconciliation Week, please visit their website https://www.reconciliation.org.au/national-reconciliation-week/.
Principal's News
It certainly has been a term we will never forget. I am incredibly proud of how all our students have transitioned back. As a staff we are also grateful for the words of thanks and generosity from our parent community. We have received many gifts/treats and today on behalf of you all our school captains delivered to every staff member with a most precious message along with a gift.
Thanks a million
Not all superheros wear capes...some wear onesies!
In these last couple of months, we all looked to you for guidance and leadership and we received that and so much more.
We watched on as our school leaders and teachers shared a warmth and dedication that made our children feel safe and loved.
You were strong and resolute and while still having to care for yourselves and loved ones, all while making us feel that our children were the most important.
We thank you for the endless hours of work, commitment and patience you have shown to our beautiful children.
Trepidation made way for smiles as they were welcomed back with magical characters and open arms.
2020 will certainly be a year we will never forget!
Please accept this small gesture and know how much you are admired and appreciated - drinks are on us!
With all our love,
The families of St Martin's.
Last Day of Term
Term two comes to an end for students at 1pm on Friday 26 June.
Our end of the day pick up will be as follows with three collection times.
A-I students to be collected between 12:30pm - 12:50pm
J-R students to be collected between 12:50pm - 1:10pm
S-Z students to be collected at 1:10pm
Students walking home or to a designated pick up point (A-Z surnames) will leave the school yard at 1pm
Students enrolled in OSHClub will be collected from top yard by OSHClub staff at 1pm.
We will not send out a new Compass event for this pick up arrangement. We will make the following adjustments.
3pm pick up will be changed to 12:30pm
3:20pm pick up will be changed to 12:50pm
3:40pm pick up will be changed to 1:10pm
If you are changing your pick up point on this day please contact the office via email or phone.
Reports
I would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of all our staff who are currently involved in preparing school reports. Reports may look a little different this semester due to our remote learning experience. There will be an opportunity to discuss your students learning with our teachers early in Term three. Reports will be sent home via Compass on Thursday 25 June.
School Review
Next Term we will undergo a formal school review initiated by Catholic Education Melbourne. This process occurs every four years and has two key dimensions: Improvement and Compliance. The review process provides an opportunity for our school to reflect on its last School Improvement Plan and identify priorities that will be integral to the school’s strategic planning over the next four years.
The external reviewer will be in the school for a few days and would like the opportunity to meet with students, parents and staff. I will continue to inform you of the process throughout next Term.
Learning Conversations Mid Year
Learning Conversations will take place in week two of Term three. The dates are currently set for Wednesday 22nd (4pm-6pm)and Thursday 23rd of July (1pm-8pm). We are unsure of the format of these conversations due to COVID-19 restrictions, but are awaiting advice from Catholic Education Melbourne.
To facilitate these learning conversations there will be a school closure day on Thursday 23 July. Staff will spend the morning preparing for our school review.
We value this opportunity to work together with both you and your child to reflect on their learning. These upcoming conversations will provide an opportunity to consider our home learning experience, reset, and establish student learning goals for the remainder of the year.
A survey will come home from your child's classroom teacher next week. We would be extremely grateful if you took the time to fill it out, as this survey data will inform part of the Learning Conversation.
Sacraments
Please take some time to read the R.E News as there is important information related to how the Sacraments will be celebrated this year with the COVID-19 restrictions. We have spent some time planning with our Parish team - Fr Michael and Sr Maria on how to proceed with Confirmation and Reconciliation. First Eucharist Sacraments will not be taking place in 2020.
Social Media
This Term we have spent a lot more time accessing social media to stay in touch with our family and friends. Social media, (including Google Hangouts) is a great way of communicating but it can also be negative if used in the wrong way. Can I please remind all our students and parents to always be respectful when making comments on social media.
Words can be very powerful and play a significant role in people's mental health. Often people can feel brave when they hide behind a screen and then regret their actions at a later stage. As Principal my message would always be, ‘Don’t ever put something in print that you wouldn’t say personally to someone’. Relationships should always be respected. I thank you for your support in this space and encourage you to have regular conversations with your children about how to behave responsibly.
Mr Ooi and I plan on visiting our senior students in their classes next week to remind them of the school guidelines when using devices both at home and at school.
Staffing
As a community we congratulate Emma and Ben O’Malley who are expecting a baby in December. Jack is so excited to become a big brother.
I would also like to advise you that Miss Stephanie Laws has resigned from her position as classroom teacher effective the end of this Term for personal reasons. I would like to thank Stephanie for her contributions to St Martin’s in the time she has been with us this year and wish her every success for her future endeavours. For the rest of this year 5L will be taught by Mr Brendan Ooi and Mrs Martine Klaic. Brendan will teach three days and Martine two days.
Mr Steven Villani will teach STEM two days per week next semester. Ms Emma Kent will teach library an extra day next semester.
Prep 2021 Enrolments
Fr Michael and I have loved meeting our new families over the course of the Term as they wait with excitement for their children to begin their journey at St Martins next year. Many have shared their reasons for choosing St Martin’s and they include wanting a faith filled community and its wonderful reputation. I also look forward to meeting with our current families next Term who have children starting prep next year.
The enrolment process has looked very different this year due to the impacts of COVID-19. We had to cancel many of our Open Mornings and our Information Night. With current restrictions, there may be families who are unsure of how to approach a school for tours, applications etc. If you have friends or neighbours that are considering St Martin’s as a school for their child’s education, please encourage them to contact our office. We are taking on-site tours (after school hours), with appropriate social distancing measures in place. We currently have limited spaces available.
Semester Two Calendar of Events
As we continue to get more updates from Catholic Education Melbourne about what school events can take place we will update our school calendar. We thank you for your patience and understanding with this.
We can confirm the following dates:
Thursday 25 June Reports go home via Compass
Friday 26 June End of Term 2 - 12:30pm - 1:10pm finish
Monday 13 July Term 3 commences
Wednesday 22 July Learning Conversations (4pm - 6pm)
Thursday 23 July School Closure Day (Review Preparation/Learning Conversations)
Learning Conversations (1pm - 8pm)
For your future planning we have changed some of the scheduled school closure days for 2020.
Thursday 23 July Review Preparation and Learning Conversations
Thursday 15 October Cancelled (normal school day)
Friday 16 October Cancelled (normal school day)
Monday 2 November (day before Cup Day) School Closure -Report Writing Day
Monday 30 November School Closure -Planning Day for 2021
The October planned school closure days have been cancelled and removed from our school calendar.
Once again thank you for your support as we manage government requirements with COVID-19. The same pick up times will be in place for next week with a small adjustment for Friday. I will keep you advised as to what school life will look like as we head into Term three.
Regards
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
It certainly has been a term we will never forget. I am incredibly proud of how all our students have transitioned back. As a staff we are also grateful for the words of thanks and generosity from our parent community. We have received many gifts/treats and today on behalf of you all our school captains delivered to every staff member with a most precious message along with a gift.
Thanks a million
Not all superheros wear capes...some wear onesies!
In these last couple of months, we all looked to you for guidance and leadership and we received that and so much more.
We watched on as our school leaders and teachers shared a warmth and dedication that made our children feel safe and loved.
You were strong and resolute and while still having to care for yourselves and loved ones, all while making us feel that our children were the most important.
We thank you for the endless hours of work, commitment and patience you have shown to our beautiful children.
Trepidation made way for smiles as they were welcomed back with magical characters and open arms.
2020 will certainly be a year we will never forget!
Please accept this small gesture and know how much you are admired and appreciated - drinks are on us!
With all our love,
The families of St Martin's.
Last Day of Term
Term two comes to an end for students at 1pm on Friday 26 June.
Our end of the day pick up will be as follows with three collection times.
A-I students to be collected between 12:30pm - 12:50pm
J-R students to be collected between 12:50pm - 1:10pm
S-Z students to be collected at 1:10pm
Students walking home or to a designated pick up point (A-Z surnames) will leave the school yard at 1pm
Students enrolled in OSHClub will be collected from top yard by OSHClub staff at 1pm.
We will not send out a new Compass event for this pick up arrangement. We will make the following adjustments.
3pm pick up will be changed to 12:30pm
3:20pm pick up will be changed to 12:50pm
3:40pm pick up will be changed to 1:10pm
If you are changing your pick up point on this day please contact the office via email or phone.
Reports
I would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of all our staff who are currently involved in preparing school reports. Reports may look a little different this semester due to our remote learning experience. There will be an opportunity to discuss your students learning with our teachers early in Term three. Reports will be sent home via Compass on Thursday 25 June.
School Review
Next Term we will undergo a formal school review initiated by Catholic Education Melbourne. This process occurs every four years and has two key dimensions: Improvement and Compliance. The review process provides an opportunity for our school to reflect on its last School Improvement Plan and identify priorities that will be integral to the school’s strategic planning over the next four years.
The external reviewer will be in the school for a few days and would like the opportunity to meet with students, parents and staff. I will continue to inform you of the process throughout next Term.
Learning Conversations Mid Year
Learning Conversations will take place in week two of Term three. The dates are currently set for Wednesday 22nd (4pm-6pm)and Thursday 23rd of July (1pm-8pm). We are unsure of the format of these conversations due to COVID-19 restrictions, but are awaiting advice from Catholic Education Melbourne.
To facilitate these learning conversations there will be a school closure day on Thursday 23 July. Staff will spend the morning preparing for our school review.
We value this opportunity to work together with both you and your child to reflect on their learning. These upcoming conversations will provide an opportunity to consider our home learning experience, reset, and establish student learning goals for the remainder of the year.
A survey will come home from your child's classroom teacher next week. We would be extremely grateful if you took the time to fill it out, as this survey data will inform part of the Learning Conversation.
Sacraments
Please take some time to read the R.E News as there is important information related to how the Sacraments will be celebrated this year with the COVID-19 restrictions. We have spent some time planning with our Parish team - Fr Michael and Sr Maria on how to proceed with Confirmation and Reconciliation. First Eucharist Sacraments will not be taking place in 2020.
Social Media
This Term we have spent a lot more time accessing social media to stay in touch with our family and friends. Social media, (including Google Hangouts) is a great way of communicating but it can also be negative if used in the wrong way. Can I please remind all our students and parents to always be respectful when making comments on social media.
Words can be very powerful and play a significant role in people's mental health. Often people can feel brave when they hide behind a screen and then regret their actions at a later stage. As Principal my message would always be, ‘Don’t ever put something in print that you wouldn’t say personally to someone’. Relationships should always be respected. I thank you for your support in this space and encourage you to have regular conversations with your children about how to behave responsibly.
Mr Ooi and I plan on visiting our senior students in their classes next week to remind them of the school guidelines when using devices both at home and at school.
Staffing
As a community we congratulate Emma and Ben O’Malley who are expecting a baby in December. Jack is so excited to become a big brother.
I would also like to advise you that Miss Stephanie Laws has resigned from her position as classroom teacher effective the end of this Term for personal reasons. I would like to thank Stephanie for her contributions to St Martin’s in the time she has been with us this year and wish her every success for her future endeavours. For the rest of this year 5L will be taught by Mr Brendan Ooi and Mrs Martine Klaic. Brendan will teach three days and Martine two days.
Mr Steven Villani will teach STEM two days per week next semester. Ms Emma Kent will teach library an extra day next semester.
Prep 2021 Enrolments
Fr Michael and I have loved meeting our new families over the course of the Term as they wait with excitement for their children to begin their journey at St Martins next year. Many have shared their reasons for choosing St Martin’s and they include wanting a faith filled community and its wonderful reputation. I also look forward to meeting with our current families next Term who have children starting prep next year.
The enrolment process has looked very different this year due to the impacts of COVID-19. We had to cancel many of our Open Mornings and our Information Night. With current restrictions, there may be families who are unsure of how to approach a school for tours, applications etc. If you have friends or neighbours that are considering St Martin’s as a school for their child’s education, please encourage them to contact our office. We are taking on-site tours (after school hours), with appropriate social distancing measures in place. We currently have limited spaces available.
Semester Two Calendar of Events
As we continue to get more updates from Catholic Education Melbourne about what school events can take place we will update our school calendar. We thank you for your patience and understanding with this.
We can confirm the following dates:
Thursday 25 June Reports go home via Compass
Friday 26 June End of Term 2 - 12:30pm - 1:10pm finish
Monday 13 July Term 3 commences
Wednesday 22 July Learning Conversations (4pm - 6pm)
Thursday 23 July School Closure Day (Review Preparation/Learning Conversations)
Learning Conversations (1pm - 8pm)
For your future planning we have changed some of the scheduled school closure days for 2020.
Thursday 23 July Review Preparation and Learning Conversations
Thursday 15 October Cancelled (normal school day)
Friday 16 October Cancelled (normal school day)
Monday 2 November (day before Cup Day) School Closure -Report Writing Day
Monday 30 November School Closure -Planning Day for 2021
The October planned school closure days have been cancelled and removed from our school calendar.
Once again thank you for your support as we manage government requirements with COVID-19. The same pick up times will be in place for next week with a small adjustment for Friday. I will keep you advised as to what school life will look like as we head into Term three.
Regards
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
R.E.News
Sacraments
Sacraments are suspended at this point in time until further notice from the Archdiocese.
Confirmation - Year 6
After much collaboration with the Parish and keeping within guidelines and directives from the Archdiocese of Melbourne, Catholic Education Melbourne and the Government, we have tentatively booked dates in October to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation with our Year 6 students. Fr Michael has been granted permission from the Bishop’s Office to preside over these Masses. Please be aware if numbers of people allowed to attend gatherings continues to increase, we may not need as many Masses. More detailed information will be sent home to families in Term 3.
Friday 9th October at 5pm / Saturday 10th October at 11am
Friday 23rd October at 5pm / Saturday 24th October at 11am
Friday 30th October at 5pm / Saturday 31st October at 11am
Friday 6th November at 5pm / Saturday 7th November at 11am
Eucharist - Year 4
The Sacrament of Eucharist for the Year 4 students will be rescheduled for 2021. Next year, we will have 2 year levels celebrating this sacrament. Dates are yet to be determined.
Reconciliation - Year 3
Once again after much collaboration and keeping within the directives and guidelines from the Archdiocese, CEM and the Government, the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be celebrated in November for our Year 3 students with a different format. The liturgies will take place during the school day with Fr Michael visiting each class to celebrate a Liturgy which will include the Gospel Reading and Examination of Conscience. On the same day, students in small groups will enter the Church to individually speak to Fr Michael with their class teacher in attendance. We are exploring ways in which parents can be a part of this. More detailed information will be sent home to families in Term 3. The dates for this sacrament will be:
Monday 16th November 10am - 1pm
Monday 23rd November 10am - 1pm
Monday 30th November 10am - 1pm
Fr Elio Capra will lead a Reconciliation Faith Formation evening for parents on Tuesday 1st of September at 7pm in the GECCO. At the same time, students will work with their classroom teachers on activities based on the sacrament in their classrooms.
Feast of the Most Sacred Heart - 19th June
The Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary - 20th June
Both of these feasts use the heart as a symbol of love.
In the case of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the emphasis is on God’s love and mercy. In fact, that love and mercy is so intense that the symbol of the sacred heart is a human heart encircled with a crown of thorns, crowned with a cross, and radiating flames: this is how much Christ loves us.
Marian devotions flow from Mary’s privileged status not only as the Mother of God but also as the first fruit of the grace poured out by Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. She is the model Christian; devotion to her Immaculate Heart not only calls upon her help, but provides a model for what our own hearts should look like.
St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal
Today is the Feast of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. A time to celebrate the deep and personal love Jesus has for each of us. Each year St Martin’s students support the St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal which runs throughout the month of June and July. Last week, I spoke to one of our parishioners who is a member of our local St Vincent de Paul conference and she made mention that this year’s pandemic has had a big impact on families and more are in need of support from the St Vincent de Paul organisation.
St Vincent de Paul are in need of winter clothing which includes scarves, warm jackets, blankets, beanies, jumpers, gloves, socks, slippers and cans of non perishable foods. A tent has been placed outside the school office as a collection point. Please place your generous donations into the tent and the Captains will gather these items each day to pack into boxes for collection.
Thank you to the families who have placed necessary items into the tent. Due to the difficult times we are in, we will continue to support the Winter Appeal through the month of July.
St Martin of Tours Masses
Small religious ceremonies for up to 50 people are now in operation. St Martin’s Parish offer 9.15am Weekday Masses and 10 am Mass on Sundays for worship. Bookings through the Parish Office are essential if you are wanting to attend. Strict hygiene conditions are in place and need to be adhered to when in attendance. Further details are in the Parish News section of this bulletin. The Church remains closed at all other times.
Sacraments
Sacraments are suspended at this point in time until further notice from the Archdiocese.
Confirmation - Year 6
After much collaboration with the Parish and keeping within guidelines and directives from the Archdiocese of Melbourne, Catholic Education Melbourne and the Government, we have tentatively booked dates in October to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation with our Year 6 students. Fr Michael has been granted permission from the Bishop’s Office to preside over these Masses. Please be aware if numbers of people allowed to attend gatherings continues to increase, we may not need as many Masses. More detailed information will be sent home to families in Term 3.
Friday 9th October at 5pm / Saturday 10th October at 11am
Friday 23rd October at 5pm / Saturday 24th October at 11am
Friday 30th October at 5pm / Saturday 31st October at 11am
Friday 6th November at 5pm / Saturday 7th November at 11am
Eucharist - Year 4
The Sacrament of Eucharist for the Year 4 students will be rescheduled for 2021. Next year, we will have 2 year levels celebrating this sacrament. Dates are yet to be determined.
Reconciliation - Year 3
Once again after much collaboration and keeping within the directives and guidelines from the Archdiocese, CEM and the Government, the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be celebrated in November for our Year 3 students with a different format. The liturgies will take place during the school day with Fr Michael visiting each class to celebrate a Liturgy which will include the Gospel Reading and Examination of Conscience. On the same day, students in small groups will enter the Church to individually speak to Fr Michael with their class teacher in attendance. We are exploring ways in which parents can be a part of this. More detailed information will be sent home to families in Term 3. The dates for this sacrament will be:
Monday 16th November 10am - 1pm
Monday 23rd November 10am - 1pm
Monday 30th November 10am - 1pm
Fr Elio Capra will lead a Reconciliation Faith Formation evening for parents on Tuesday 1st of September at 7pm in the GECCO. At the same time, students will work with their classroom teachers on activities based on the sacrament in their classrooms.
Feast of the Most Sacred Heart - 19th June
The Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary - 20th June
Both of these feasts use the heart as a symbol of love.
In the case of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the emphasis is on God’s love and mercy. In fact, that love and mercy is so intense that the symbol of the sacred heart is a human heart encircled with a crown of thorns, crowned with a cross, and radiating flames: this is how much Christ loves us.
Marian devotions flow from Mary’s privileged status not only as the Mother of God but also as the first fruit of the grace poured out by Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. She is the model Christian; devotion to her Immaculate Heart not only calls upon her help, but provides a model for what our own hearts should look like.
St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal
Today is the Feast of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. A time to celebrate the deep and personal love Jesus has for each of us. Each year St Martin’s students support the St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal which runs throughout the month of June and July. Last week, I spoke to one of our parishioners who is a member of our local St Vincent de Paul conference and she made mention that this year’s pandemic has had a big impact on families and more are in need of support from the St Vincent de Paul organisation.
St Vincent de Paul are in need of winter clothing which includes scarves, warm jackets, blankets, beanies, jumpers, gloves, socks, slippers and cans of non perishable foods. A tent has been placed outside the school office as a collection point. Please place your generous donations into the tent and the Captains will gather these items each day to pack into boxes for collection.
Thank you to the families who have placed necessary items into the tent. Due to the difficult times we are in, we will continue to support the Winter Appeal through the month of July.
St Martin of Tours Masses
Small religious ceremonies for up to 50 people are now in operation. St Martin’s Parish offer 9.15am Weekday Masses and 10 am Mass on Sundays for worship. Bookings through the Parish Office are essential if you are wanting to attend. Strict hygiene conditions are in place and need to be adhered to when in attendance. Further details are in the Parish News section of this bulletin. The Church remains closed at all other times.
Parish News
OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )
PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER: 9401 6338 EMAIL ENQUIRIES: macleod@cam.org.au Parish Website: http://www.smot.org.au/
MASS TIMETABLE AT SMOT
Easing of restrictions by the Victorian Government currently allows Mass for strictly 20 people only. As a result weekday Mass will be held next week on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday at 9.15am. Mass will be held on Sunday at 10.00am. Weekend Mass is strictly by booking only. It will be imperative that you adhere to strict hygiene conditions, which are detailed in the Church, sign a register to say you have attended the Mass, follow entry and exit signs, and follow any other instructions as relayed by Fr Michael. We also ask that you only attend if you are well. The Church remains closed at all other times.
BAPTISM TEAM
Volunteers are invited to join the Baptism Team. Those interested to joining us in this important role are requested to contact the Parish Office 9401 6338. Training will be provided.
OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )
PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER: 9401 6338 EMAIL ENQUIRIES: macleod@cam.org.au Parish Website: http://www.smot.org.au/
MASS TIMETABLE AT SMOT
Easing of restrictions by the Victorian Government currently allows Mass for strictly 20 people only. As a result weekday Mass will be held next week on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday at 9.15am. Mass will be held on Sunday at 10.00am. Weekend Mass is strictly by booking only. It will be imperative that you adhere to strict hygiene conditions, which are detailed in the Church, sign a register to say you have attended the Mass, follow entry and exit signs, and follow any other instructions as relayed by Fr Michael. We also ask that you only attend if you are well. The Church remains closed at all other times.
BAPTISM TEAM
Volunteers are invited to join the Baptism Team. Those interested to joining us in this important role are requested to contact the Parish Office 9401 6338. Training will be provided.
Messages from our feeder Schools
Message from our Catholic feeder schools
Message from our Catholic feeder schools
Principal's News
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Thank you once again for your support throughout the first stage of return to school.
Remote learning comes to an end today and we all take some time to enjoy a long weekend with family and friends.
We have put together a staff reflection on the COVID-19 remote learning journey as a way to say thank you and remember all the wonderful things we have achieved together.
On behalf of the staff I would like to thank you for trusting us and walking alongside us for the past 8 weeks. We have all learnt a lot. I know many of us remain anxious so let's continue to support one another by making a commitment to keeping one another safe.
The staggered times for arriving and departing from school will be in place for Term 2. We will await advice from Catholic Education Melbourne as to the requirements for Term 3 and advise you as soon as we know.
Stage 2 Return to School - Tuesday 9 June
We are very excited to have all our students back at school on Tuesday. At the same time we know we need to ensure the health and safety of all in our community so can we please ask for your support with the following.
★ During the morning drop off times parents are asked to remain in vehicles or if dropping their child off in Silk Street to not enter the school grounds. During Stage 1 parents have been so supportive of this arrangement and we know it will continue.
★ Could parents using the drive through pick up point at the end of the day please ensure they have their family name and child’s classes displayed in their car. We have some families with the same surnames and this will just streamline the process.
★ If you have not responded to the compass event - student pick up point commencing June 9, your child/ren will wait down on bottom yard at their designated pick up time.
★ Please ensure your child has everything they need for their school day as we need to limit parents entering the school to drop off items during the day. We have bottled water for students who forget their drink bottles.
★ We respectfully ask for all parents to adhere to social distancing when dropping off and picking up your child. It is very important for the safety and wellbeing of all in our community that parents do not congregate in groups in or around the school.
Reminders
Morning drop off times
8:30am: A - K Families
8:45am: L- Z Families
9am: Students who may need additional support in transitioning back to school
Afternoon pick up times
Drive through pick up point on bottom yard or walking pick up point in Silk Street on top yard.
A-I students to be collected from 3:00pm
J-R students to be collected from 3:20pm
S-Z students to be collected at 3:40pm
Students with surnames S-Z will arrive at their pick up point from 3:30pm so please do not arrive too early.
Students enrolled in OSHClub will be collected from top yard by OSHClub staff at 3:25pm.
Dobson Avenue will remain closed for pedestrian access to support the flow of cars leaving the school.
I understand that some changes may need to be made to these collection times so please communicate these to the school office.
We are hopeful for the final two weeks of the term that we will be able to amend the pick up times to 3pm, 3:15pm and 3:30pm. We just want to give parents and ourselves time to adjust to the new routine.
Student Health
Students must not come to school if they are unwell. Children should cough or sneeze into their elbows or a tissue followed by washing hands or using hand sanitiser.
If a child displays any symptoms of being unwell they will be isolated at school and will be sent home immediately. There will be hand sanitiser in every classroom however students are also encouraged to bring their own.
If you are keeping your child at home you must mark them as absent on Compass.
Cleaning
A rigorous cleaning schedule has been developed to ensure all high-touch surfaces (door handles, benches, lockers, etc) throughout the school are cleaned and disinfected daily. This includes cleaning student tables and sports equipment twice daily. Floors will be vacuumed /washed every night.
COVID-19 and Student Wellbeing
The following resource may be helpful for parents in supporting your children at this time. (Click here)
As a school we will continue to spend time supporting student wellbeing at this time.
Prayers
We keep our staff member Patsy Lynch in our thoughts and prayers as her beloved husband Peter passed away today. May her family find strength in the precious memories they have created together.
Staffing
Whilst Jamie Atherton remains on carers leave, Mrs Anne Hubber will teach 6AM Monday - Wednesday for the rest of this term.
Twitter account
Our school has a new twitter account. We feel this is a good tool to promote all the wonderful things we are doing at St Martins. Feel free to follow us.
Enjoy your long weekend
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Thank you once again for your support throughout the first stage of return to school.
Remote learning comes to an end today and we all take some time to enjoy a long weekend with family and friends.
We have put together a staff reflection on the COVID-19 remote learning journey as a way to say thank you and remember all the wonderful things we have achieved together.
On behalf of the staff I would like to thank you for trusting us and walking alongside us for the past 8 weeks. We have all learnt a lot. I know many of us remain anxious so let's continue to support one another by making a commitment to keeping one another safe.
The staggered times for arriving and departing from school will be in place for Term 2. We will await advice from Catholic Education Melbourne as to the requirements for Term 3 and advise you as soon as we know.
Stage 2 Return to School - Tuesday 9 June
We are very excited to have all our students back at school on Tuesday. At the same time we know we need to ensure the health and safety of all in our community so can we please ask for your support with the following.
★ During the morning drop off times parents are asked to remain in vehicles or if dropping their child off in Silk Street to not enter the school grounds. During Stage 1 parents have been so supportive of this arrangement and we know it will continue.
★ Could parents using the drive through pick up point at the end of the day please ensure they have their family name and child’s classes displayed in their car. We have some families with the same surnames and this will just streamline the process.
★ If you have not responded to the compass event - student pick up point commencing June 9, your child/ren will wait down on bottom yard at their designated pick up time.
★ Please ensure your child has everything they need for their school day as we need to limit parents entering the school to drop off items during the day. We have bottled water for students who forget their drink bottles.
★ We respectfully ask for all parents to adhere to social distancing when dropping off and picking up your child. It is very important for the safety and wellbeing of all in our community that parents do not congregate in groups in or around the school.
Reminders
Morning drop off times
8:30am: A - K Families
8:45am: L- Z Families
9am: Students who may need additional support in transitioning back to school
Afternoon pick up times
Drive through pick up point on bottom yard or walking pick up point in Silk Street on top yard.
A-I students to be collected from 3:00pm
J-R students to be collected from 3:20pm
S-Z students to be collected at 3:40pm
Students with surnames S-Z will arrive at their pick up point from 3:30pm so please do not arrive too early.
Students enrolled in OSHClub will be collected from top yard by OSHClub staff at 3:25pm.
Dobson Avenue will remain closed for pedestrian access to support the flow of cars leaving the school.
I understand that some changes may need to be made to these collection times so please communicate these to the school office.
We are hopeful for the final two weeks of the term that we will be able to amend the pick up times to 3pm, 3:15pm and 3:30pm. We just want to give parents and ourselves time to adjust to the new routine.
Student Health
Students must not come to school if they are unwell. Children should cough or sneeze into their elbows or a tissue followed by washing hands or using hand sanitiser.
If a child displays any symptoms of being unwell they will be isolated at school and will be sent home immediately. There will be hand sanitiser in every classroom however students are also encouraged to bring their own.
If you are keeping your child at home you must mark them as absent on Compass.
Cleaning
A rigorous cleaning schedule has been developed to ensure all high-touch surfaces (door handles, benches, lockers, etc) throughout the school are cleaned and disinfected daily. This includes cleaning student tables and sports equipment twice daily. Floors will be vacuumed /washed every night.
COVID-19 and Student Wellbeing
The following resource may be helpful for parents in supporting your children at this time. (Click here)
As a school we will continue to spend time supporting student wellbeing at this time.
Prayers
We keep our staff member Patsy Lynch in our thoughts and prayers as her beloved husband Peter passed away today. May her family find strength in the precious memories they have created together.
Staffing
Whilst Jamie Atherton remains on carers leave, Mrs Anne Hubber will teach 6AM Monday - Wednesday for the rest of this term.
Twitter account
Our school has a new twitter account. We feel this is a good tool to promote all the wonderful things we are doing at St Martins. Feel free to follow us.Enjoy your long weekend
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
R.E News
Trinity Sunday
On Sunday the church celebrates the feast of the Holy Trinity. God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit. One God. Each time we make the sign of the cross we are saying a prayer to the Holy Trinity.
What does the sign of the cross mean to you? Have you ever talked about it to your children? If you have small children, perhaps you could try to teach them the sign of the cross and help them understand its meaning.
Please click here for a link to a reflection of the weekend’s readings by Genevieve Bryant.
St Martin of Tours Masses
With the easing of restrictions now allowing 20 people to attend Mass, the weekday Masses on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.15am have resumed.
This weekend will see the return of the 10am Mass on Sunday. Bookings through the Parish Office are essential if you are wanting to attend.
Strict hygiene conditions are in place and need to be adhered to when in attendance. Further details are in the Parish News section of this bulletin.
The Church remains closed at all other times.
Project Compassion 
Project Compassion boxes were sent home prior to the Easter break. Caritas Australia are now collecting these boxes from schools and parishes. If you are wanting to return the box, please hand into the School Office by Friday 12th of June.
Through your generosity during Project Compassion this year, you are empowering communities with hope and helping those in great need to shape a better future for themselves, their families, their communities.
St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal
Each year St Martin’s students support the St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal which runs throughout the month of June. Yesterday, I spoke to one of our parishioners who is a member of our local St Vincent de Paul conference and she made mention that this year’s pandemic has had a big impact on families and more are in need of support from the St Vincent de Paul organisation.
St Vincent de Paul are in need of winter clothing which includes scarves, warm jackets, blankets, beanies, jumpers, gloves, socks, slippers and cans of non perishable foods. A tent will be placed just outside the Church on the lawn area. Please place your generous donations into the tent and the school captains will gather these items each day to pack into boxes for collection.
Trinity Sunday
On Sunday the church celebrates the feast of the Holy Trinity. God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit. One God. Each time we make the sign of the cross we are saying a prayer to the Holy Trinity.
What does the sign of the cross mean to you? Have you ever talked about it to your children? If you have small children, perhaps you could try to teach them the sign of the cross and help them understand its meaning.
Please click here for a link to a reflection of the weekend’s readings by Genevieve Bryant.
St Martin of Tours Masses
With the easing of restrictions now allowing 20 people to attend Mass, the weekday Masses on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.15am have resumed.
This weekend will see the return of the 10am Mass on Sunday. Bookings through the Parish Office are essential if you are wanting to attend.
Strict hygiene conditions are in place and need to be adhered to when in attendance. Further details are in the Parish News section of this bulletin.
The Church remains closed at all other times.
Project Compassion
Project Compassion boxes were sent home prior to the Easter break. Caritas Australia are now collecting these boxes from schools and parishes. If you are wanting to return the box, please hand into the School Office by Friday 12th of June.
Through your generosity during Project Compassion this year, you are empowering communities with hope and helping those in great need to shape a better future for themselves, their families, their communities.
St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal
Each year St Martin’s students support the St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal which runs throughout the month of June. Yesterday, I spoke to one of our parishioners who is a member of our local St Vincent de Paul conference and she made mention that this year’s pandemic has had a big impact on families and more are in need of support from the St Vincent de Paul organisation.
St Vincent de Paul are in need of winter clothing which includes scarves, warm jackets, blankets, beanies, jumpers, gloves, socks, slippers and cans of non perishable foods. A tent will be placed just outside the Church on the lawn area. Please place your generous donations into the tent and the school captains will gather these items each day to pack into boxes for collection.
Staff Reflections
Staff Reflections on Remote Learning
What a lot we have all learnt about ourselves, each other and our students!! We can cope with and achieve more than we ever expected.
We learnt heaps of new things about technology and different ways of working. The support and positive feedback from our parents and families was truly amazing!
What an amazing experience and we are so proud of all of our superstar students. Their resilience shone through with the way that they were able to adapt to changes and continue the learning at home with such a positive attitude. Our favourite part of the week was getting to chat to the students through the Google Meets and hear about all of the exciting things that they were doing. We are so thankful for the support from all of the amazing families during this time!
We have loved being able to connect with our students and their families throughout this time. It was an opportunity to support each other and really get to know and understand each child and family. It was a big learning curve for everybody and we adapted so well. We really enjoyed seeing our class grow and especially seeing our little ones become technological geniuses, using the technology with ease. They will all be so resilient coming out of this experience and I feel so grateful to have gone through this with the support of our whole St Martin’s Family.
There is a saying, ‘When life deals you lemons you make lemonade’. Well we definitely think that has been the case in our year level. Remote learning has been challenging, but what we have learnt and achieved in 8 weeks has been amazing. We are so proud of all of our students and our families. Without their effort and support, online learning would not have been as successful as it has been.
Keep calm and carry on!
Working in your slippers (Students and teachers). Snacking from the fridge between sessions
Unreliable internet. Discovery. Cooperation. Trust. Community. Reflection. Unity.
This whole experience has shown that we are true to the school motto “Non Recuso Laborem” We do not refuse the task!
It has been fun, exciting, somewhat uncomfortable (sitting in front of a computer screen all day) and a scary journey setting up an online classroom and interacting with our classes from a computer screen. It truly was amazing to see how quickly the students were able to adjust to the new way of life. The first few weeks really set a high standard for how the term was going to unfold and although at times it was difficult for everyone to keep their spirit high and achieve their best work it was amazing to see the effort that everyone was able to put in. Looking forward to Tuesday morning and seeing all our wonderful students back in the classroom. Congratulations to everyone involved on a truly wonderful job!
We have really enjoyed supporting students and getting to know the parents. It was great to be able to make connections with their home life as well as schooling. It was just wonderful driving down Silk Street and seeing the balloons and welcome banner to welcome our Junior children back to school. We really missed them!
It has been amazing to see our community's love of books shine through, even from home! Reading is our superpower SMOT!
What a wonderful learning experience remote learning has been!! Not only have we learnt new skills, but we have enjoyed the weekly connections with the students, parents and teachers. The students have always shown enthusiasm and a need to learn, The support the parents have given has been fantastic to see. We will miss the Google Meets. Thank you to all the teachers who have assisted me in this new way of learning and teaching.
It was a rewarding experience for us as teachers and we believe it has given parents an opportunity and insight into how teachers work with the children.
On behalf of all the staff at St Martin’s we say Thank you!!!
Staff Reflections on Remote Learning
What a lot we have all learnt about ourselves, each other and our students!! We can cope with and achieve more than we ever expected.
We learnt heaps of new things about technology and different ways of working. The support and positive feedback from our parents and families was truly amazing!
What an amazing experience and we are so proud of all of our superstar students. Their resilience shone through with the way that they were able to adapt to changes and continue the learning at home with such a positive attitude. Our favourite part of the week was getting to chat to the students through the Google Meets and hear about all of the exciting things that they were doing. We are so thankful for the support from all of the amazing families during this time!
We have loved being able to connect with our students and their families throughout this time. It was an opportunity to support each other and really get to know and understand each child and family. It was a big learning curve for everybody and we adapted so well. We really enjoyed seeing our class grow and especially seeing our little ones become technological geniuses, using the technology with ease. They will all be so resilient coming out of this experience and I feel so grateful to have gone through this with the support of our whole St Martin’s Family.
There is a saying, ‘When life deals you lemons you make lemonade’. Well we definitely think that has been the case in our year level. Remote learning has been challenging, but what we have learnt and achieved in 8 weeks has been amazing. We are so proud of all of our students and our families. Without their effort and support, online learning would not have been as successful as it has been.
Keep calm and carry on!
Working in your slippers (Students and teachers). Snacking from the fridge between sessions
Unreliable internet. Discovery. Cooperation. Trust. Community. Reflection. Unity.
This whole experience has shown that we are true to the school motto “Non Recuso Laborem” We do not refuse the task!
It has been fun, exciting, somewhat uncomfortable (sitting in front of a computer screen all day) and a scary journey setting up an online classroom and interacting with our classes from a computer screen. It truly was amazing to see how quickly the students were able to adjust to the new way of life. The first few weeks really set a high standard for how the term was going to unfold and although at times it was difficult for everyone to keep their spirit high and achieve their best work it was amazing to see the effort that everyone was able to put in. Looking forward to Tuesday morning and seeing all our wonderful students back in the classroom. Congratulations to everyone involved on a truly wonderful job!
We have really enjoyed supporting students and getting to know the parents. It was great to be able to make connections with their home life as well as schooling. It was just wonderful driving down Silk Street and seeing the balloons and welcome banner to welcome our Junior children back to school. We really missed them!
It has been amazing to see our community's love of books shine through, even from home! Reading is our superpower SMOT!
What a wonderful learning experience remote learning has been!! Not only have we learnt new skills, but we have enjoyed the weekly connections with the students, parents and teachers. The students have always shown enthusiasm and a need to learn, The support the parents have given has been fantastic to see. We will miss the Google Meets. Thank you to all the teachers who have assisted me in this new way of learning and teaching.
It was a rewarding experience for us as teachers and we believe it has given parents an opportunity and insight into how teachers work with the children.
On behalf of all the staff at St Martin’s we say Thank you!!!
Library News
We cannot wait to open up our library properly again very soon, but for the health and wellbeing of our community we must operate in a limited capacity for the time being.
The following will apply to the SMOT library until further notice;
★ Students will have a library lesson each week and be allowed to borrow two books for their classroom book box.
★ There will be no home borrowing; students are still encouraged to use
★ Story Box Library
OR for 4/5/6 students
Our ebook platform through Infiniti.
It’s also important to note that limited borrowing is now available from your local library.
★ All returns must be placed in the plastic tub OUTSIDE the library for quarantining
★ The library will not be open before/after school or at lunchtimes
Premiers Reading Challenge 
Not even COVID19 can stop the phenomenal commitment our SMOT students have to their enjoyment of reading.
Even with the library closed and students having to manage using other resources, we have still had 130 students sign up for the Premiers’ Reading Challenge.
These 130 students have already read 588 books.
Well done SUPER SMOT READERS…..not even a pandemic can stop you from reading your favourite books.
We cannot wait to open up our library properly again very soon, but for the health and wellbeing of our community we must operate in a limited capacity for the time being.
The following will apply to the SMOT library until further notice;
★ Students will have a library lesson each week and be allowed to borrow two books for their classroom book box.
★ There will be no home borrowing; students are still encouraged to use
★ Story Box Library
OR for 4/5/6 students
Our ebook platform through Infiniti.
It’s also important to note that limited borrowing is now available from your local library.
★ All returns must be placed in the plastic tub OUTSIDE the library for quarantining
★ The library will not be open before/after school or at lunchtimes
Premiers Reading Challenge
Not even COVID19 can stop the phenomenal commitment our SMOT students have to their enjoyment of reading.
Even with the library closed and students having to manage using other resources, we have still had 130 students sign up for the Premiers’ Reading Challenge.
These 130 students have already read 588 books.
Well done SUPER SMOT READERS…..not even a pandemic can stop you from reading your favourite books.
Digital Technology News
Reflection: E-communication during remote learning
The remote learning experience for students has been filled with learning, challenges and successes. We have been so proud of the teachers and how they adapted to a digital approach of teaching and learning.
Successes
★Students using emails to communicate with teachers
★Students use of all the learning platforms (Google Sites, Seesaw, Google Classroom and Hapara) to complete work
★Teachers and students using Google Meet as a video conferencing tool for learning and wellbeing
★Teachers using Google Meet to video conference students for meetings
★Students showing initiative in being autonomous
Challenges
★Students using Google Meet and Hangouts for other purposes other than learning
★Expecting students to be autonomous with their learning
★Educating teachers and students on how to use the platforms effectively
★Google not having a way to control some aspects of google meet and hangouts
Moving forward
★Using the Google Meet function as a norm for students to communicate with teachers
★Teaching students how to communicate safely, effectively and respectfully online
★Educating students and parents about online safety
★Educating the students on how to safely create content on a google site
The students and parents have been so fantastic in their support and how they have adapted to remote learning here at St. Martin’s.
We are so grateful for the community that we are a part of and appreciate the support from our parents and friends.
Reflection: E-communication during remote learning
The remote learning experience for students has been filled with learning, challenges and successes. We have been so proud of the teachers and how they adapted to a digital approach of teaching and learning.
Successes
★Students using emails to communicate with teachers
★Students use of all the learning platforms (Google Sites, Seesaw, Google Classroom and Hapara) to complete work
★Teachers and students using Google Meet as a video conferencing tool for learning and wellbeing
★Teachers using Google Meet to video conference students for meetings
★Students showing initiative in being autonomous
Challenges
★Students using Google Meet and Hangouts for other purposes other than learning
★Expecting students to be autonomous with their learning
★Educating teachers and students on how to use the platforms effectively
★Google not having a way to control some aspects of google meet and hangouts
Moving forward
★Using the Google Meet function as a norm for students to communicate with teachers
★Teaching students how to communicate safely, effectively and respectfully online
★Educating students and parents about online safety
★Educating the students on how to safely create content on a google site
The students and parents have been so fantastic in their support and how they have adapted to remote learning here at St. Martin’s.
We are so grateful for the community that we are a part of and appreciate the support from our parents and friends.
Parish News
OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )
PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER: 9401 6338 EMAIL ENQUIRIES: macleod@cam.org.au Parish Website: http://www.smot.org.au/
MASS TIMETABLE AT SMOT
Easing of restrictions by the Victorian Government currently allows Mass for strictly 20 people only. As a result weekday Mass will be held next week on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday at 9.15am. Mass will be held on Sunday at 10.00am. Weekend Mass is strictly by booking only. It will be imperative that you adhere to strict hygiene conditions, which are detailed in the Church, sign a register to say you have attended the Mass, follow entry and exit signs, and follow any other instructions as relayed by Fr Michael. We also ask that you only attend if you are well. The Church remains closed at all other times.
BAPTISM TEAM
Volunteers are invited to join the Baptism Team. Those interested to joining us in this important role are requested to contact the Parish Office 9401 6338. Training will be provided.
OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )
PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER: 9401 6338 EMAIL ENQUIRIES: macleod@cam.org.au Parish Website: http://www.smot.org.au/
MASS TIMETABLE AT SMOT
Easing of restrictions by the Victorian Government currently allows Mass for strictly 20 people only. As a result weekday Mass will be held next week on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday at 9.15am. Mass will be held on Sunday at 10.00am. Weekend Mass is strictly by booking only. It will be imperative that you adhere to strict hygiene conditions, which are detailed in the Church, sign a register to say you have attended the Mass, follow entry and exit signs, and follow any other instructions as relayed by Fr Michael. We also ask that you only attend if you are well. The Church remains closed at all other times.
BAPTISM TEAM
Volunteers are invited to join the Baptism Team. Those interested to joining us in this important role are requested to contact the Parish Office 9401 6338. Training will be provided.
Principal's News
Thank you to all of our parents and guardians who continue to support our staff and students and provide encouraging feedback around the high quality of remote learning provided at St. Martin of Tours. It is great to see the students connecting with one another through Google Meets.
I would like to share with you some of the feedback we have been receiving both from members of our Education Board and also our Year 4 - 6 families. Google surveys were sent out to some year levels over the past week and next week we will be asking our Prep to Year 3 families to have a voice in this space.
So why is Feedback important?
Feedback ensures effective listening and creates an environment of trust and respect. It provides an opportunity to motivate and improve performance and supports us to keep learning.
We have really appreciated the teaching videos, they have supported the learning significantly and have been purposeful and clear. We love how students can work through the work at their own pace. Loving the whole class meets and small group catch ups.
Navigating the different platforms for learning can be challenging at times.
You’re all doing an amazing job! I’m mindful that our kids have gone into home learning after weeks of no social interaction and I feel like cracks are starting to show with frustration at sitting at a desk doing tasks. Saying that, I’m supporting all the tasks that have been set but trying to listen to their little voices when it feels like their new normal is all too much.
The website has been outstanding and the examples that have been given are extremely helpful, both to help the students understand the task and to know how much to write. It’s very impressive, thank you to everyone involved in putting the website together!! My only feedback is that some of the subjects are very engaging and well planned and others are very brief.
The check ins are definitely appreciated, boosting my child's confidence of being on track with his learning. Thank you so much. Teachers are doing great! More group sessions will be great. He sure misses his classmates. We as parents are very grateful for the support given by all teachers.
You've done a great job in very new and challenging circumstances so thank you. It may be helpful to have more frequent class check ins to keep the children more connected. Looking forward to next week's trivia session.
I would like to commend all of St Martins for adapting so quickly in this difficult time. The teachers have provided the right level of interaction and encouragement on Google Classroom, Seesaw and the website.
Next steps - Students Return to School
At this stage we are waiting for the outcome from the National Cabinet Meeting held today. Catholic Education Melbourne are awaiting direction from Premier Andrews in line with advice from the Chief Medical Officer. I believe the next press conference will be held on Monday 11th May. I will inform you of any changes as soon as I hear them.
Also, we are waiting on government guidelines to see if we can proceed with camps or excursions this year. Families can make contact with me at any time if they are experiencing financial difficulty.
Wellbeing Wednesday - 13th May
Responding to some of the feedback we have received and to say thank you for all your hard work in this space we have set this coming Wednesday aside as a day for your Wellbeing.
It is a day to celebrate all the wonderful learning we have done so far this term.
It is a day to celebrate how wonderfully our community has joined together to provide the best learning opportunities possible for our students.
It is a day to recharge our batteries.
On this day, we ask you to do what is best for the wellbeing of your family. There will be no timetabled activities on our website, and no check ins via Google Meet. On this day teachers will not be available to respond to your emails as they will be planning future activities, assessing and beginning to report on student work. Your family may choose to have a screen free day, or to spend the day doing something that is good for your collective soul. You will find a list of possible ways to spend the day on the “Wellbeing Wednesday” section of the newsletter. Please, do not feel under any obligation to do these. Do what works best for you and the circumstances of your family.
The school will still be providing supervision on Wednesday for the children of essential workers however the learning may also look different on this day.
Sacraments for 2020
After discussions with Fr. Michael, Sr. Maria and Marita Anderson, and recommendations from the Archdiocese of Melbourne our sacramental program will look very different this year.
The sacraments of Reconciliation and First Eucharist will take place in 2021. The sacrament of Confirmation is planned to take place in the month of October over 4 weekends. There will be a Friday night celebration at 5pm and a Saturday morning celebration at 11am. We will Confirm 10 students at each of these Masses. More information to follow as soon as we know we can go ahead with this plan.
Prep 2021 Enrolment process
Fr. Michael and I began our Prep interviews yesterday. We had the opportunity to meet and talk to our new families through Google Meet or phone conference call. I just love hearing the reasons why new families are choosing St Martin’s and the hopes and dreams they have for their children. We will continue to meet with more families in the coming weeks.
Message from our School Captains
Thank you for sending in your pictures, prayers and letters of the work of Police Officers. We will now put together a reflection to share with the community.
Happy Mother's Day
On behalf of all the staff at St Martin’s I would like to wish all our mums, grandmothers and special friends a Happy Mother’s Day for Sunday.
Jamie Atherton would like to thank everyone for the love, prayers and support during this time. His wife is now at home recovering from her surgery. Jo Maloney, David Witchell and Teresa Michelangeli will continue to teach 6AM whilst Jamie remains on leave.
Thanks for all your support.
We miss seeing all our families.
Take care.
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
Thank you to all of our parents and guardians who continue to support our staff and students and provide encouraging feedback around the high quality of remote learning provided at St. Martin of Tours. It is great to see the students connecting with one another through Google Meets.
I would like to share with you some of the feedback we have been receiving both from members of our Education Board and also our Year 4 - 6 families. Google surveys were sent out to some year levels over the past week and next week we will be asking our Prep to Year 3 families to have a voice in this space.
So why is Feedback important?
Feedback ensures effective listening and creates an environment of trust and respect. It provides an opportunity to motivate and improve performance and supports us to keep learning.
We have really appreciated the teaching videos, they have supported the learning significantly and have been purposeful and clear. We love how students can work through the work at their own pace. Loving the whole class meets and small group catch ups.
Navigating the different platforms for learning can be challenging at times.
You’re all doing an amazing job! I’m mindful that our kids have gone into home learning after weeks of no social interaction and I feel like cracks are starting to show with frustration at sitting at a desk doing tasks. Saying that, I’m supporting all the tasks that have been set but trying to listen to their little voices when it feels like their new normal is all too much.
The website has been outstanding and the examples that have been given are extremely helpful, both to help the students understand the task and to know how much to write. It’s very impressive, thank you to everyone involved in putting the website together!! My only feedback is that some of the subjects are very engaging and well planned and others are very brief.
The check ins are definitely appreciated, boosting my child's confidence of being on track with his learning. Thank you so much. Teachers are doing great! More group sessions will be great. He sure misses his classmates. We as parents are very grateful for the support given by all teachers.
You've done a great job in very new and challenging circumstances so thank you. It may be helpful to have more frequent class check ins to keep the children more connected. Looking forward to next week's trivia session.
I would like to commend all of St Martins for adapting so quickly in this difficult time. The teachers have provided the right level of interaction and encouragement on Google Classroom, Seesaw and the website.
Next steps - Students Return to School
At this stage we are waiting for the outcome from the National Cabinet Meeting held today. Catholic Education Melbourne are awaiting direction from Premier Andrews in line with advice from the Chief Medical Officer. I believe the next press conference will be held on Monday 11th May. I will inform you of any changes as soon as I hear them.
Also, we are waiting on government guidelines to see if we can proceed with camps or excursions this year. Families can make contact with me at any time if they are experiencing financial difficulty.
Wellbeing Wednesday - 13th May
Responding to some of the feedback we have received and to say thank you for all your hard work in this space we have set this coming Wednesday aside as a day for your Wellbeing.
It is a day to celebrate all the wonderful learning we have done so far this term.
It is a day to celebrate how wonderfully our community has joined together to provide the best learning opportunities possible for our students.
It is a day to recharge our batteries.
On this day, we ask you to do what is best for the wellbeing of your family. There will be no timetabled activities on our website, and no check ins via Google Meet. On this day teachers will not be available to respond to your emails as they will be planning future activities, assessing and beginning to report on student work. Your family may choose to have a screen free day, or to spend the day doing something that is good for your collective soul. You will find a list of possible ways to spend the day on the “Wellbeing Wednesday” section of the newsletter. Please, do not feel under any obligation to do these. Do what works best for you and the circumstances of your family.
The school will still be providing supervision on Wednesday for the children of essential workers however the learning may also look different on this day.
Sacraments for 2020
After discussions with Fr. Michael, Sr. Maria and Marita Anderson, and recommendations from the Archdiocese of Melbourne our sacramental program will look very different this year.
The sacraments of Reconciliation and First Eucharist will take place in 2021. The sacrament of Confirmation is planned to take place in the month of October over 4 weekends. There will be a Friday night celebration at 5pm and a Saturday morning celebration at 11am. We will Confirm 10 students at each of these Masses. More information to follow as soon as we know we can go ahead with this plan.
Prep 2021 Enrolment process
Fr. Michael and I began our Prep interviews yesterday. We had the opportunity to meet and talk to our new families through Google Meet or phone conference call. I just love hearing the reasons why new families are choosing St Martin’s and the hopes and dreams they have for their children. We will continue to meet with more families in the coming weeks.
Message from our School Captains
Thank you for sending in your pictures, prayers and letters of the work of Police Officers. We will now put together a reflection to share with the community.
Happy Mother's Day
On behalf of all the staff at St Martin’s I would like to wish all our mums, grandmothers and special friends a Happy Mother’s Day for Sunday.
Jamie Atherton would like to thank everyone for the love, prayers and support during this time. His wife is now at home recovering from her surgery. Jo Maloney, David Witchell and Teresa Michelangeli will continue to teach 6AM whilst Jamie remains on leave.
Thanks for all your support.
We miss seeing all our families.
Take care.
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
R.E News
A Prayer of Blessing for Mothers
Lord God,
Through your creative power you give birth to all
and love all as a mother loves her child.
Bless these women who are mothers.
When they work to provide a home for their child, stand beside them.
If they mourn for their child, hold them in your love.
When the joy of their child overtakes them, laugh with them.
Bless them, and may they each be a living symbol of your love, a symbol to their children and all who they encounter.
We make this prayer through Christ our Lord.
Amen
We now read the words of Luke’s gospel, and to the joy and love of two mothers.
A reading from the Gospel according to Luke (Luke 1:39-49)
In those days, Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zecheriah and greeted Elizabeth, her cousin. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfilment of what was spoken to her by the Lord,’
And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God by Saviour, for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.’
The Gospel of the Lord.
Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ
Reflection...
Two women, cousins, both pregnant through the miraculous and awesome power of God. They come together and the joy of the Holy Spirit moves within each of them. Their immediate response is to recognise the work of God in their lives. Both are pregnant unexpectedly and in a situation that could have brought shame, but their response is joy and praise.
Although our own births were probably a bit more ordinary than the births of John the Baptist and Jesus, it is still true that every child’s birth is a witness to the miraculous and awesome power of God. It is through our mothers that God works this particular miracle. So it is appropriate that we take the opportunity at this time to do what we do often enough throughout the rest of the year - to acknowledge our mothers and grandmothers, to say thank you and to let them know how much we love them.
Perhaps there is a special way you can do that this Mother’s Day?
We join these prayers with the prayers of people all around the world as we say the Hail Mary…
Hail Mary, full of grace.
The Lord is with thee.
Blessed art you among women
And blessed is the fruit of your womb Jesus
Holy Mary, Mother of God
Pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death.
Amen
A Prayer of Blessing for Mothers
Lord God,
Through your creative power you give birth to all
and love all as a mother loves her child.
Bless these women who are mothers.
When they work to provide a home for their child, stand beside them.
If they mourn for their child, hold them in your love.
When the joy of their child overtakes them, laugh with them.
Bless them, and may they each be a living symbol of your love, a symbol to their children and all who they encounter.
We make this prayer through Christ our Lord.
Amen
We now read the words of Luke’s gospel, and to the joy and love of two mothers.
A reading from the Gospel according to Luke (Luke 1:39-49)
In those days, Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zecheriah and greeted Elizabeth, her cousin. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfilment of what was spoken to her by the Lord,’
And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God by Saviour, for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.’
The Gospel of the Lord.
Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ
Reflection...
Two women, cousins, both pregnant through the miraculous and awesome power of God. They come together and the joy of the Holy Spirit moves within each of them. Their immediate response is to recognise the work of God in their lives. Both are pregnant unexpectedly and in a situation that could have brought shame, but their response is joy and praise.
Although our own births were probably a bit more ordinary than the births of John the Baptist and Jesus, it is still true that every child’s birth is a witness to the miraculous and awesome power of God. It is through our mothers that God works this particular miracle. So it is appropriate that we take the opportunity at this time to do what we do often enough throughout the rest of the year - to acknowledge our mothers and grandmothers, to say thank you and to let them know how much we love them.
Perhaps there is a special way you can do that this Mother’s Day?
We join these prayers with the prayers of people all around the world as we say the Hail Mary…
Hail Mary, full of grace.
The Lord is with thee.
Blessed art you among women
And blessed is the fruit of your womb Jesus
Holy Mary, Mother of God
Pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death.
Amen
Wellbeing Wednesday
Dear Parents,
The St Martin of Tours School staff declare next Wednesday the 13th of May to be;
WELLBEING WEDNESDAY 
It is a day to celebrate all the wonderful learning we have done so far this term.
It is a day to celebrate how wonderfully our community has joined together to provide the best learning opportunities possible for our students.
It is a day to recharge our batteries.
On this day, we ask you to do what is best for the wellbeing of your family. There will be no timetabled activities on our website, and no check ins via Google Meet. On this day teachers will not be available to respond to your emails as they will be planning future activities and assessing and beginning reporting on student work.
Your family may choose to have a screen free day, or to spend the day doing something that is good for your collective soul.
Below we have listed some possible ways to spend Wellbeing Wednesday, but please, do not feel under any obligation to do these. Do what works best for you and the circumstances of your family.
We hope you have a wonderful day…….and thank you for all your support.
The St Martin of Tours Staff
Dear Parents,
The St Martin of Tours School staff declare next Wednesday the 13th of May to be;
WELLBEING WEDNESDAY
It is a day to celebrate all the wonderful learning we have done so far this term.
It is a day to celebrate how wonderfully our community has joined together to provide the best learning opportunities possible for our students.
It is a day to recharge our batteries.
On this day, we ask you to do what is best for the wellbeing of your family. There will be no timetabled activities on our website, and no check ins via Google Meet. On this day teachers will not be available to respond to your emails as they will be planning future activities and assessing and beginning reporting on student work.
Your family may choose to have a screen free day, or to spend the day doing something that is good for your collective soul.
Below we have listed some possible ways to spend Wellbeing Wednesday, but please, do not feel under any obligation to do these. Do what works best for you and the circumstances of your family.We hope you have a wonderful day…….and thank you for all your support.
The St Martin of Tours Staff
Parish News
OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )
PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER: 9401 6338 EMAIL ENQUIRIES: macleod@cam.org.au Parish Website: http://www.smot.org.au/
OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )
PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER: 9401 6338 EMAIL ENQUIRIES: macleod@cam.org.au Parish Website: http://www.smot.org.au/
Principal's News
Our stars of the week, this week, are our parents who have supported the home learning platform by adjusting their home life and working conditions. We acknowledge it hasn’t been easy balancing everything. The staff appreciate the time you have given to guide the learning as we all work together to connect and collaborate online.
It has been wonderful to see how our students have embraced the new remote learning program and are achieving their learning goals. Our focus initially was to check in with students individually through google meets to track everyone’s wellbeing and set everyone up for success. As this way of learning evolves, we are beginning to move into small and whole class google meets to enhance collaboration and social connection. I was invited to join two class google meets this week and it was just beautiful to see the excitement on the children’s faces as they connected in with their peers.
I would like to thank our staff who have spent hours designing and planning learning tasks for your children and exploring the potential of learning opportunities in a digital world. The curriculum they have planned is both rich and engaging. In particular I would like to acknowledge Brendan Ooi for his work in the area of technology. He has worked tirelessly troubleshooting issues.
As previously mentioned I am aware that families may be impacted financially by this pandemic and are facing challenging times. Please know you can engage with me confidentially about your situation in relation to school life. The impacts of COVID 19 have made it difficult to predict at this stage what future school events will proceed. I do want to assure parents that any levies that have been paid for extracurricular activities such as camp will be reimbursed if they are cancelled. Catholic Education Melbourne will continue to provide me with advice in this area.
Parish Education Board
Members of the board are providing us with regular feedback on how remote learning is being experienced in the home. This feedback is then shared with our teaching staff.
This week some of the feedback includes;
● Impressed with the systems that have been selected for home learning.
● Appreciated the consistency of staff check ins and feedback on seesaw.
● Important to ensure the language used on the websites is able to be understood by students and parents.
Staffing
We keep Jamie Atherton and his family in our prayers. Jamie’s wife has been diagnosed with cancer and will undergo surgery next week. Parents of 6AM received a letter yesterday outlining the staffing arrangements to support the teaching and learning whilst Jamie takes leave to care for his family.
At this current time the government directive remains the same in stopping the spread of COVID 19, all students who can learn from home must learn from home and we appreciate your support with this. It remains important that we have minimal students on site for the health and wellbeing of all.
I will continue to keep you updated on any changes to the way we are operating. At this stage schools are operating remotely until further notice. Please continue to communicate with your child’s teacher regularly. It is important that parents are close by when students are having google meets. We also record all google meets as part of our assessment and accountability practices. I encourage our children to embrace their love of reading by accessing our new ebook system through our SMOT school library at home.
Please take care of yourselves in these challenging times. Thank you for supporting one another. We are certainly learning a lot about ourselves and the importance of family at this time. We have really appreciated the positive emails we have had from parents and the gestures of goodwill.
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
Our stars of the week, this week, are our parents who have supported the home learning platform by adjusting their home life and working conditions. We acknowledge it hasn’t been easy balancing everything. The staff appreciate the time you have given to guide the learning as we all work together to connect and collaborate online.
It has been wonderful to see how our students have embraced the new remote learning program and are achieving their learning goals. Our focus initially was to check in with students individually through google meets to track everyone’s wellbeing and set everyone up for success. As this way of learning evolves, we are beginning to move into small and whole class google meets to enhance collaboration and social connection. I was invited to join two class google meets this week and it was just beautiful to see the excitement on the children’s faces as they connected in with their peers.
I would like to thank our staff who have spent hours designing and planning learning tasks for your children and exploring the potential of learning opportunities in a digital world. The curriculum they have planned is both rich and engaging. In particular I would like to acknowledge Brendan Ooi for his work in the area of technology. He has worked tirelessly troubleshooting issues.
As previously mentioned I am aware that families may be impacted financially by this pandemic and are facing challenging times. Please know you can engage with me confidentially about your situation in relation to school life. The impacts of COVID 19 have made it difficult to predict at this stage what future school events will proceed. I do want to assure parents that any levies that have been paid for extracurricular activities such as camp will be reimbursed if they are cancelled. Catholic Education Melbourne will continue to provide me with advice in this area.
Parish Education Board
Members of the board are providing us with regular feedback on how remote learning is being experienced in the home. This feedback is then shared with our teaching staff.
This week some of the feedback includes;
● Impressed with the systems that have been selected for home learning.
● Appreciated the consistency of staff check ins and feedback on seesaw.
● Important to ensure the language used on the websites is able to be understood by students and parents.
Staffing
We keep Jamie Atherton and his family in our prayers. Jamie’s wife has been diagnosed with cancer and will undergo surgery next week. Parents of 6AM received a letter yesterday outlining the staffing arrangements to support the teaching and learning whilst Jamie takes leave to care for his family.
At this current time the government directive remains the same in stopping the spread of COVID 19, all students who can learn from home must learn from home and we appreciate your support with this. It remains important that we have minimal students on site for the health and wellbeing of all.
I will continue to keep you updated on any changes to the way we are operating. At this stage schools are operating remotely until further notice. Please continue to communicate with your child’s teacher regularly. It is important that parents are close by when students are having google meets. We also record all google meets as part of our assessment and accountability practices. I encourage our children to embrace their love of reading by accessing our new ebook system through our SMOT school library at home.
Please take care of yourselves in these challenging times. Thank you for supporting one another. We are certainly learning a lot about ourselves and the importance of family at this time. We have really appreciated the positive emails we have had from parents and the gestures of goodwill.
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
Library News
Hello to all of our beautiful St Martin’s families!
We miss you! And so do the books!
We know many of you have borrowed some extra books to read while we are away from school. Make sure you read the special books you have chosen so that they don’t feel lonely and find a nice safe place to keep them at home.
For the time being our Library is not open to borrow books, but we have been busy coming up with some other ways to help you access books from home.
Story Box Library 
Story Box Library combines quality Australian literature with entertaining and engaging narrators. There are picture books for both junior and senior school students and some novels too.
To login simple go to: https://storyboxlibrary.com.au/login
Username: Please check Compass News feed -Accessing Books from Home
Password: Please check Compass News feed- Accessing Books from Home
*Please note: Many of these books are on the Premiers’ Reading Challenge!
EPIC 
Epic is a digital library for kids 12 and under. It has a large range of books including fiction (novels too), non-fiction, biographies and graphic novels.
To access, go to: https://www.getepic.com/
You will either need to sign up using the website, or you can also download the app on another device.
All details and relevant links should be on the website.
*Please note: This is US based and so many of these titles will not be on the Premiers’ Reading Challenge list, but can still be added as ‘Choice’ books.
ePlatform 
ePlatform is our new eBook software! Students can use Infiniti (our Library system) to search for books and now eBooks! This is only available for Year 4-6 students. This week’s Library lesson has been created so that these students can log on, explore and borrow their first eBook. Details are on the Week 2 Library page of your year level page.
Otherwise you can access by going to: https://smrosanna.eplatform.co/
Username:Please check Compass News feed -Accessing Books from Home
Password: Please check Compass News feed -Accessing Books from Home
*Please note: You can search for Premiers’ Reading Challenge books on this app. How fabulous!
Premiers’ Reading Challenge
You are invited to join the Victorian Premiers' Reading Challenge for 2020! You would have received a special notification in Compass about this event today.
The Victorian Premiers' Reading Challenge has become a cherished event for our school community that takes place in Term 2 and 3. It really highlights a love that we all share at St Martin's - BOOKS! Given our current situation, this quote is so true for us all - Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are -Mason Cooley. Whilst we are all at home, it is the perfect opportunity to pick up a book and let it take us on a wonderful journey.
The Challenge is open to all Victorian children from birth to Year 10 in recognition of the importance of reading for literacy development. It is not a competition; but a personal challenge. Children from Prep to Year 2 are encouraged to read or ‘experience’ 30 books with their parents and teachers. Children from Year 3 to Year 6 are challenged to read 15 books.
All children who meet the Challenge will receive a certificate of achievement signed by the Victorian Premier and former Premiers.
A new application is being used this year that offers a range of exciting features including:
● access to a library catalogue (including book images and blurbs)
● a modern user-friendly interface
● rewarding students with badges as challenge milestones are achieved
● the option for students to mark books as a favourite, give them a star rating or complete a book review
Please talk to your child about taking up this challenge in 2020. All you need to do to begin the process is to give consent to your child participating in the challenge via Compass.
After that we will send home a username and password via Compass, which will enable you to log into the site and start recording your reading. We aim to have all students off and running by the end of week three. The challenge finishes in September.
To read the Premier’s letter to parents, view the booklists and for more information about the Victorian Premiers’ Reading Challenge, visit: www.education.vic.gov.au/prc
Let's make it our best year yet! Reading: Everybody, Everyday!
If you have any questions regarding the information that has been included in Library news this week, please do not hesitate to contact Chloe Jones via email: cjones@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Take care,
The Library Staff
Hello to all of our beautiful St Martin’s families!
We miss you! And so do the books!
We know many of you have borrowed some extra books to read while we are away from school. Make sure you read the special books you have chosen so that they don’t feel lonely and find a nice safe place to keep them at home.For the time being our Library is not open to borrow books, but we have been busy coming up with some other ways to help you access books from home.
Story Box Library
Story Box Library combines quality Australian literature with entertaining and engaging narrators. There are picture books for both junior and senior school students and some novels too.
To login simple go to: https://storyboxlibrary.com.au/login
Username: Please check Compass News feed -Accessing Books from Home
Password: Please check Compass News feed- Accessing Books from Home
*Please note: Many of these books are on the Premiers’ Reading Challenge!
EPIC
Epic is a digital library for kids 12 and under. It has a large range of books including fiction (novels too), non-fiction, biographies and graphic novels.
To access, go to: https://www.getepic.com/
You will either need to sign up using the website, or you can also download the app on another device.
All details and relevant links should be on the website.
*Please note: This is US based and so many of these titles will not be on the Premiers’ Reading Challenge list, but can still be added as ‘Choice’ books.
ePlatform
ePlatform is our new eBook software! Students can use Infiniti (our Library system) to search for books and now eBooks! This is only available for Year 4-6 students. This week’s Library lesson has been created so that these students can log on, explore and borrow their first eBook. Details are on the Week 2 Library page of your year level page.
Otherwise you can access by going to: https://smrosanna.eplatform.co/
Username:Please check Compass News feed -Accessing Books from Home
Password: Please check Compass News feed -Accessing Books from Home
*Please note: You can search for Premiers’ Reading Challenge books on this app. How fabulous!
Premiers’ Reading Challenge
You are invited to join the Victorian Premiers' Reading Challenge for 2020! You would have received a special notification in Compass about this event today.
The Victorian Premiers' Reading Challenge has become a cherished event for our school community that takes place in Term 2 and 3. It really highlights a love that we all share at St Martin's - BOOKS! Given our current situation, this quote is so true for us all - Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are -Mason Cooley. Whilst we are all at home, it is the perfect opportunity to pick up a book and let it take us on a wonderful journey.The Challenge is open to all Victorian children from birth to Year 10 in recognition of the importance of reading for literacy development. It is not a competition; but a personal challenge. Children from Prep to Year 2 are encouraged to read or ‘experience’ 30 books with their parents and teachers. Children from Year 3 to Year 6 are challenged to read 15 books.
All children who meet the Challenge will receive a certificate of achievement signed by the Victorian Premier and former Premiers.
A new application is being used this year that offers a range of exciting features including:
● access to a library catalogue (including book images and blurbs)
● a modern user-friendly interface
● rewarding students with badges as challenge milestones are achieved
● the option for students to mark books as a favourite, give them a star rating or complete a book review
Please talk to your child about taking up this challenge in 2020. All you need to do to begin the process is to give consent to your child participating in the challenge via Compass.
After that we will send home a username and password via Compass, which will enable you to log into the site and start recording your reading. We aim to have all students off and running by the end of week three. The challenge finishes in September.
To read the Premier’s letter to parents, view the booklists and for more information about the Victorian Premiers’ Reading Challenge, visit: www.education.vic.gov.au/prcLet's make it our best year yet! Reading: Everybody, Everyday!
If you have any questions regarding the information that has been included in Library news this week, please do not hesitate to contact Chloe Jones via email: cjones@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Take care,
The Library Staff
R.E News
Please remember you are welcome to pray with Fr Michael as he streams his Masses online via youtube or the Smot Parish Facebook page, each Sunday.
Anzac Day: Lest we forget
Did you know? 
The Rising Sun Badge: One of the mainsprings of an army is its esprit-de-corps - that spirit which gives a soldier purpose and the endurance to carry on when others might give up. In the prolonged and bitter struggles of World War 1 and World War 2, the soldiers of the 1st and 2nd AIF (Australian Imperial Forces) had this esprit-de-corps, and its focal point was a humble badge. The so-called ‘Rising Sun’ badge, worn on the upturned brim of a slouch hat, typified the spirit of ANZAC - the camaraderie of Australian soldiers to fight for the Crown and the British Empire. © Warrant Officer C. JOBSON 1998
Jesus replied, “Now the hour has come for the Chosen One to be glorified. The truth of the matter is, unless a grain of wheat falls on the ground and dies, it remains only a single grain; but if it dies, it yields a rich harvest.” (Jn 12: 23-24)
We pray:
God of love and liberty, we thank you for the peace and security we enjoy. It was won for us through the courage and devotion of those who gave their lives in time of war. We pray that their labour and sacrifice may not be in vain, but that their spirit may live on in us and in generations to come. We ask this prayer in the name of Jesus and in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Driveways At Dawn
Early Saturday morning we are all encouraged to remember our Anzacs by standing in our driveways at 6am for a minutes silence. You may like to play the Last Post or tune in via the radio for the Dawn Service.
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them. Lest we forget!
The Ode comes from For the Fallen, a poem by the English poet and writer Laurence Binon and was published in London in The Winnowing Fan: Poems of the Great War in 1914. This verse, which became the Ode for the Returned and Services League, has been used in association with commemoration services in Australia since 1921.
Please remember you are welcome to pray with Fr Michael as he streams his Masses online via youtube or the Smot Parish Facebook page, each Sunday.
Anzac Day: Lest we forget
Did you know?
The Rising Sun Badge: One of the mainsprings of an army is its esprit-de-corps - that spirit which gives a soldier purpose and the endurance to carry on when others might give up. In the prolonged and bitter struggles of World War 1 and World War 2, the soldiers of the 1st and 2nd AIF (Australian Imperial Forces) had this esprit-de-corps, and its focal point was a humble badge. The so-called ‘Rising Sun’ badge, worn on the upturned brim of a slouch hat, typified the spirit of ANZAC - the camaraderie of Australian soldiers to fight for the Crown and the British Empire. © Warrant Officer C. JOBSON 1998
Jesus replied, “Now the hour has come for the Chosen One to be glorified. The truth of the matter is, unless a grain of wheat falls on the ground and dies, it remains only a single grain; but if it dies, it yields a rich harvest.” (Jn 12: 23-24)
We pray:
God of love and liberty, we thank you for the peace and security we enjoy. It was won for us through the courage and devotion of those who gave their lives in time of war. We pray that their labour and sacrifice may not be in vain, but that their spirit may live on in us and in generations to come. We ask this prayer in the name of Jesus and in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Driveways At Dawn
Early Saturday morning we are all encouraged to remember our Anzacs by standing in our driveways at 6am for a minutes silence. You may like to play the Last Post or tune in via the radio for the Dawn Service.
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them. Lest we forget!
The Ode comes from For the Fallen, a poem by the English poet and writer Laurence Binon and was published in London in The Winnowing Fan: Poems of the Great War in 1914. This verse, which became the Ode for the Returned and Services League, has been used in association with commemoration services in Australia since 1921.
St Martin's Parish News
OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )
PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER: 9401 6338 EMAIL ENQUIRIES: macleod@cam.org.au Parish Website: http://www.smot.org.au/
OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )
PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER: 9401 6338 EMAIL ENQUIRIES: macleod@cam.org.au Parish Website: http://www.smot.org.au/
Principal's News
Celebrating Term 1
As I reflect on my first term as Principal at St Martin’s a few words come to mind - welcomed, grateful, memorable and enriching.
I thank all in the community for welcoming me, sharing your stories with me and trusting my leadership. I had heard so many wonderful things about the community of St Martin’s before arriving and have now experienced it myself. Building relationships is very important to me and I have loved how students have allowed me to share in their learning and how parents have shown faith in how we care for their children. You are so fortunate to have such a wonderful staff who show belief in every student to ensure they reach their potential. I feel privileged to be part of the team. I take the responsibility for leading this community very seriously and have been challenged this term managing the COVID-19 pandemic.
I trusted my intuition on all the decisions I made, not only as a Principal, but as a parent. Your safety and wellbeing will always be my priority. Even though many events we had planned for this term did not eventuate we still have much to celebrate they include:
● Gathering together at our beginning of the year Mass to celebrate our gifts and talents and look forwarding to a wonderful 2020
● Introducing our gorgeous library story dogs Ava and Charlie to our school
● Empowering student voice and leadership through ‘Persuade the Principal’ letters and leading community prayer
● New learnings and achievements for all students
● Building relationships and friendships through our buddy program
● Knowing that the sun was shining on what would’ve been our SMOT Carnival day and looking forward to the event in November
● Staff creating ways of working online to connect in with our students next term.
I would like to thank you all for your words of welcome and appreciation over the term. I would like to thank all staff for embracing me and in particular Marita Anderson (Deputy Principal) for her guidance and support since my appointment. Marita has played a significant role in walking the journey with me to help me understand what is valued at St Martin’s and areas for growth.
Please know I remain committed to ensuring we all remain safe and connected as a community.
COVID-19 Update
It still remains important in protecting our community at St Martin’s that I am informed of any confirmed cases of COVID-19 or close contact of a student, parent or staff member in our school. You must email me immediately.
We continue to follow the government and Catholic Education Melbourne directives and at this stage they include:
● Schools prepare for the possibility for children learning remotely in Term 2.
Over the past four days staff have been working on ways to provide rich learning by establishing websites and various learning sites. Thank you for taking the time to come into the school on Wednesday to gather resources that may be needed. Over 1100 library books were borrowed which just highlights the love of reading our students have. Please remember to respond to my previous Compass alert if you are requiring support with technology in your home.
To support Continuation of Learning in the home St Martin’s has prepared a detailed strategy to inform all families outlining home learning in Term 2. This outline will be shared with you on Friday 10th April prior to the first week of Term 2. Students will receive official access to their year levels website on Wednesday 15th April. Information on the year levels website will guide your child’s learning journey.
● Maintaining social distancing, hygiene practices and monitoring your health
School holidays will look very different this time around. What is often a time to connect in with family and friends will now be exploring ways of keeping busy and having fun in the home environment. I know families will continue to follow government guidelines in the area of hygiene, social distancing and maintaining good health.
● Providing student care/supervision for families of essential work
I have been engaging with OSHClub (Before and After School Care Provider) this week to explore what they can provide for our families of essential workers or students who are vulnerable if schools remain closed in Term 2. The current definition of essential workers includes: logistics, grocery retailing, emergency services, government and many other occupations and professions essential to the effective operation of our community at this time. I will continue to keep you informed of what this service will look like for Term 2.
If you meet the criteria for an essential worker and would like to access this service in Term 2 could you please email me before 7th April on principal@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Please include your occupation, number of children and their year levels, so I can prepare for this effectively. OSHClub are providing Vacation Care at various venues (not at SMOT) and will be contacting families enrolled in the service. If you are currently not enrolled and are an essential service family and would like to access this service please contact their customer service team on 1300 395 735.
Outreach - supporting our families in need
We are well aware, as the staff at SMOT, that we are fortunate in this current climate to be maintaining our jobs even though we are operating differently.
We know that many families in our community are not so fortunate and times will become very tough for you. For this reason we want to reach out to our families in need and provide meals to support you. It is often hard to ask for help but we want you to. I am coordinating this project to maintain confidentiality. I will be the only one who knows the families in need.
If you need support with meals please email me at any time and we have staff ready to cook for you. They will be delivered to your home - dropped on your front door step. As in the words of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop “Never see a need without doing something about it!” We are in this together so please take care and reach out.
Congratulations to our Easter Raffle winners
Thank you to the PFA for coordinating this event and for the generosity of all in supporting it.
Our lucky winners were:
Alfonso U-V PPV
Valentina S 1B
Mikaela G 2T
Olivia M 3C
Max Byron 4C
Isobel S 5V
Patrick M 6W
Bonus Prizes
Ethan P - PPV and Charlie P - 1B
Prep 2021 Enrolments
Thank you to all our current families who have returned their enrolment forms, Karen has done a great job processing them.
We are conscious that many families considering enrolling at St Martin’s in 2021 do not have the opportunity to see our school in action as School Tours have been suspended and we also cancelled our Enrolment and Information night due to COVID-19. We have updated our Enrolment Information on our website to reflect this. Our staff have created a presentation that celebrates the life at St Martin’s that we would love to share with prospective families. Can you please communicate this with any families that you know who may be considering enrolling at St Martin’s.
Time to Reflect and Pray
Today we offer special prayers for our much loved previous Principal Mr Dane Malone (2016 - 2019) on the one year anniversary of his death.
Lord, we keep the anniversary of the death of Mr Dane Malone in our prayers and thoughts.
Give him the unending joy of your love in the company of all your saints.
We remember how Dane shared with the community of St Martin’s the gifts of creativity, passion, joy, leadership, fairness and love.
Today we pray for his family and friends. Let us be reminded that we are always in the presence of God - our God who mourns with us; our God who has welcomed Dane with love; our God who gives comfort and strength at this time.
We make this prayer, and all our prayers, through Christ, our Lord.
Amen.
We also keep in our prayers the families in our community who have lost loved ones this term.
Easter reflection
Easter is the most important time on the Christian calendar. It is a time for reflection and for thinking about Jesus’ resurrection.
Please take care of yourselves at this challenging time and try to find something to be thankful for everyday.
During the school holidays I will remain available to you all through email but may not access my emails daily. I will communicate any updates to you via Compass.
In the current climate of social distancing my holidays will involve reading some good books, watching Netflix and Stan (happy for recommendations I enjoy a romantic/comedy) trying to fit in some walks where possible with my dog Dusty and trying some new recipes. I’m also expecting my house will be the cleanest it’s been for sometime!!!
Blessings to you all
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
Celebrating Term 1
As I reflect on my first term as Principal at St Martin’s a few words come to mind - welcomed, grateful, memorable and enriching.
I thank all in the community for welcoming me, sharing your stories with me and trusting my leadership. I had heard so many wonderful things about the community of St Martin’s before arriving and have now experienced it myself. Building relationships is very important to me and I have loved how students have allowed me to share in their learning and how parents have shown faith in how we care for their children. You are so fortunate to have such a wonderful staff who show belief in every student to ensure they reach their potential. I feel privileged to be part of the team. I take the responsibility for leading this community very seriously and have been challenged this term managing the COVID-19 pandemic.
I trusted my intuition on all the decisions I made, not only as a Principal, but as a parent. Your safety and wellbeing will always be my priority. Even though many events we had planned for this term did not eventuate we still have much to celebrate they include:
● Gathering together at our beginning of the year Mass to celebrate our gifts and talents and look forwarding to a wonderful 2020
● Introducing our gorgeous library story dogs Ava and Charlie to our school
● Empowering student voice and leadership through ‘Persuade the Principal’ letters and leading community prayer
● New learnings and achievements for all students
● Building relationships and friendships through our buddy program
● Knowing that the sun was shining on what would’ve been our SMOT Carnival day and looking forward to the event in November
● Staff creating ways of working online to connect in with our students next term.
I would like to thank you all for your words of welcome and appreciation over the term. I would like to thank all staff for embracing me and in particular Marita Anderson (Deputy Principal) for her guidance and support since my appointment. Marita has played a significant role in walking the journey with me to help me understand what is valued at St Martin’s and areas for growth.
Please know I remain committed to ensuring we all remain safe and connected as a community.
COVID-19 Update
It still remains important in protecting our community at St Martin’s that I am informed of any confirmed cases of COVID-19 or close contact of a student, parent or staff member in our school. You must email me immediately.
We continue to follow the government and Catholic Education Melbourne directives and at this stage they include:
● Schools prepare for the possibility for children learning remotely in Term 2.
Over the past four days staff have been working on ways to provide rich learning by establishing websites and various learning sites. Thank you for taking the time to come into the school on Wednesday to gather resources that may be needed. Over 1100 library books were borrowed which just highlights the love of reading our students have. Please remember to respond to my previous Compass alert if you are requiring support with technology in your home.
To support Continuation of Learning in the home St Martin’s has prepared a detailed strategy to inform all families outlining home learning in Term 2. This outline will be shared with you on Friday 10th April prior to the first week of Term 2. Students will receive official access to their year levels website on Wednesday 15th April. Information on the year levels website will guide your child’s learning journey.
● Maintaining social distancing, hygiene practices and monitoring your health
School holidays will look very different this time around. What is often a time to connect in with family and friends will now be exploring ways of keeping busy and having fun in the home environment. I know families will continue to follow government guidelines in the area of hygiene, social distancing and maintaining good health.
● Providing student care/supervision for families of essential work
I have been engaging with OSHClub (Before and After School Care Provider) this week to explore what they can provide for our families of essential workers or students who are vulnerable if schools remain closed in Term 2. The current definition of essential workers includes: logistics, grocery retailing, emergency services, government and many other occupations and professions essential to the effective operation of our community at this time. I will continue to keep you informed of what this service will look like for Term 2.
If you meet the criteria for an essential worker and would like to access this service in Term 2 could you please email me before 7th April on principal@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Please include your occupation, number of children and their year levels, so I can prepare for this effectively. OSHClub are providing Vacation Care at various venues (not at SMOT) and will be contacting families enrolled in the service. If you are currently not enrolled and are an essential service family and would like to access this service please contact their customer service team on 1300 395 735.
Outreach - supporting our families in need
We are well aware, as the staff at SMOT, that we are fortunate in this current climate to be maintaining our jobs even though we are operating differently.
We know that many families in our community are not so fortunate and times will become very tough for you. For this reason we want to reach out to our families in need and provide meals to support you. It is often hard to ask for help but we want you to. I am coordinating this project to maintain confidentiality. I will be the only one who knows the families in need.
If you need support with meals please email me at any time and we have staff ready to cook for you. They will be delivered to your home - dropped on your front door step. As in the words of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop “Never see a need without doing something about it!” We are in this together so please take care and reach out.
Congratulations to our Easter Raffle winners
Thank you to the PFA for coordinating this event and for the generosity of all in supporting it.
Our lucky winners were:
Alfonso U-V PPV
Valentina S 1B
Mikaela G 2T
Olivia M 3C
Max Byron 4C
Isobel S 5V
Patrick M 6W
Bonus Prizes
Ethan P - PPV and Charlie P - 1B
Prep 2021 Enrolments
Thank you to all our current families who have returned their enrolment forms, Karen has done a great job processing them.
We are conscious that many families considering enrolling at St Martin’s in 2021 do not have the opportunity to see our school in action as School Tours have been suspended and we also cancelled our Enrolment and Information night due to COVID-19. We have updated our Enrolment Information on our website to reflect this. Our staff have created a presentation that celebrates the life at St Martin’s that we would love to share with prospective families. Can you please communicate this with any families that you know who may be considering enrolling at St Martin’s.
Time to Reflect and Pray
Today we offer special prayers for our much loved previous Principal Mr Dane Malone (2016 - 2019) on the one year anniversary of his death.
Lord, we keep the anniversary of the death of Mr Dane Malone in our prayers and thoughts.
Give him the unending joy of your love in the company of all your saints.
We remember how Dane shared with the community of St Martin’s the gifts of creativity, passion, joy, leadership, fairness and love.
Today we pray for his family and friends. Let us be reminded that we are always in the presence of God - our God who mourns with us; our God who has welcomed Dane with love; our God who gives comfort and strength at this time.
We make this prayer, and all our prayers, through Christ, our Lord.
Amen.
We also keep in our prayers the families in our community who have lost loved ones this term.
Easter reflection
Easter is the most important time on the Christian calendar. It is a time for reflection and for thinking about Jesus’ resurrection.
Please take care of yourselves at this challenging time and try to find something to be thankful for everyday.
During the school holidays I will remain available to you all through email but may not access my emails daily. I will communicate any updates to you via Compass.
In the current climate of social distancing my holidays will involve reading some good books, watching Netflix and Stan (happy for recommendations I enjoy a romantic/comedy) trying to fit in some walks where possible with my dog Dusty and trying some new recipes. I’m also expecting my house will be the cleanest it’s been for sometime!!!
Blessings to you all
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
Principal's News
Conversations will not be cancelled.
Relationships will not be cancelled.
Love will not be cancelled.
Self care will not be cancelled.
Songs will not be cancelled.
Reading will not be cancelled.
Hope will not be cancelled.
May we tune into and lean into the goodness that remains.
COVID - 19 Update
Our first priority at St Martin’s is the health, safety and wellbeing of our school community. I will continue to keep you informed of the latest advice and any impacts for our context. Any incidents that arise will be addressed in accordance with our Critical Incident Management Policy. We also have access to resources and support from Catholic Education Melbourne and the Department of Health and Human Services.
We are currently setting up structures for Continuity of Learning in the home environment should our school be closed. This will involve using such platforms as Seesaw, Compass, Google Applications for Education and various other educational websites.
As parents, you have a critical role in helping the school manage this situation and I thank you for all that you are currently doing to support our school. Please exercise good judgment by keeping children home if they are feeling unwell for any reason and I encourage you to talk to your children about the situation, as they may be feeling anxious and worried. Please take the time to read the articles in the Parenting Ideas and Student Wellbeing section of the newsletter.
The Department of Health and Human Services has a number of resources on its website, which explain the virus, detail risk-reduction practices and behaviours, and answer frequently asked questions. These are available at www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus. You can also find information about Catholic Education’s response at http://www.cecv.catholic.edu.au/Coronavirus-information-for-parents
We will continue to implement the following to maximise the health and safety of all in our community:
• We will ensure children wash their hands regularly, especially before eating.
• Children will have regular water breaks (students must have their water bottles at school).
• We will avoid large group gatherings and promote social distancing where practicable.
• We will use outdoor spaces where possible so students can be spread out in the fresh air and opening up doors and windows.
• We will continue to limit visitor access to the school.
• All parent meetings and Masses have been cancelled until further notice.
It is vital that families communicate with me immediately if you have a confirmed case of Coronavirus in your family or if you have been in close contact with someone confirmed with COVID-19. Families returning from overseas travel must not enter the school grounds until I have discussed a management plan with them.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank our staff at this challenging time for the dedication they are showing to our students and families. It is such a time of uncertainty and many of our students are showing a different range of emotions. The staff at St Martin’s have been exceptional in working with our students and taking care of one another.
This is an evolving situation, but we will keep you updated as things change. Many parents have chosen to keep their children home, which I can understand. I encourage those families to keep the learning going by reading everyday, writing stories and following the learning sent home via the year level bulletins. If we are advised to shut down for any reason at any time, I will notify you immediately through Compass and communicate a plan of action. I ask you to continue to work closely with the school and contact me should you have any concerns. Thank you for your support.
Prayers
We take some time to celebrate the life of Fr Peter Robinson (Robbo) who passed away on 14 March 2020. He was a much loved Parish Priest of St Martin of Tours from 1993 - 2009. His humour, caring nature and friendship to all will never be forgotten and his Spirit will long live on within our Community. One with God. May he rest in peace.
We also offer prayers in the coming week for the life of our much loved Principal (2016 - 2019) Mr Dane Malone on the one year anniversary of his passing. We had planned to offer Mass for his family, colleagues, friends and school families on Thursday 2 April at 9:15am at St Martin’s Church however with the current suspension of Masses this is now not possible.
Parish Education Board
The board met for the first time last week and together we explored our 2019 parent data from the surveys completed last year. The areas discussed included; family engagement, school climate, communication and Catholic Identity. The board also has an important role in reviewing and ratifying policies.
The board acts as an advisory body to the Parish Priest and Principal on matters concerning education in the parish as well as promoting community development. If you are interested in joining the board as a parent representative or have any questions please email me and we can explore this further.
Holy Week
We may not be able to gather as a community for Mass to celebrate Holy Week this year so I strongly encourage you to please take some time with your family to reflect on the prayers shared by our Religious Education Leader Marita Anderson in her section of the newsletter, Project Compassion and Holy Week Easter Tableau.
Today I asked some of our Preps what they have loved about their first term at school…
★ Playing
★ Doing quiet things
★ Dancing the Animal Boogie
★ Playing soccer with my friends
★ Sports
★ Drawing
★ Writing
★ Playing basketball
★ Playing with my friends
★ Reading books
Now I know why the Preps love The Animal Boogie.....
Next week
Assuming it is business as usual, we will begin our week on Monday with Community Prayer and Assembly over the PA system with children sitting in their classrooms.
As we all know our much anticipated Carnival has been postponed to Sunday 29 November.
Students finish school on Friday 27 March at 1pm.
School will resume on Tuesday 14 April (after Easter)
Even though there is no formal newsletter next Friday I will send out a Principal’s Bulletin through Compass reflecting on my first term as Principal of St Martin’s.
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
Conversations will not be cancelled.
Relationships will not be cancelled.
Love will not be cancelled.
Self care will not be cancelled.
Songs will not be cancelled.
Reading will not be cancelled.
Hope will not be cancelled.
May we tune into and lean into the goodness that remains.
COVID - 19 Update
Our first priority at St Martin’s is the health, safety and wellbeing of our school community. I will continue to keep you informed of the latest advice and any impacts for our context. Any incidents that arise will be addressed in accordance with our Critical Incident Management Policy. We also have access to resources and support from Catholic Education Melbourne and the Department of Health and Human Services.
We are currently setting up structures for Continuity of Learning in the home environment should our school be closed. This will involve using such platforms as Seesaw, Compass, Google Applications for Education and various other educational websites.
As parents, you have a critical role in helping the school manage this situation and I thank you for all that you are currently doing to support our school. Please exercise good judgment by keeping children home if they are feeling unwell for any reason and I encourage you to talk to your children about the situation, as they may be feeling anxious and worried. Please take the time to read the articles in the Parenting Ideas and Student Wellbeing section of the newsletter.
The Department of Health and Human Services has a number of resources on its website, which explain the virus, detail risk-reduction practices and behaviours, and answer frequently asked questions. These are available at www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus. You can also find information about Catholic Education’s response at http://www.cecv.catholic.edu.au/Coronavirus-information-for-parents
We will continue to implement the following to maximise the health and safety of all in our community:
• We will ensure children wash their hands regularly, especially before eating.
• Children will have regular water breaks (students must have their water bottles at school).
• We will avoid large group gatherings and promote social distancing where practicable.
• We will use outdoor spaces where possible so students can be spread out in the fresh air and opening up doors and windows.
• We will continue to limit visitor access to the school.
• All parent meetings and Masses have been cancelled until further notice.
It is vital that families communicate with me immediately if you have a confirmed case of Coronavirus in your family or if you have been in close contact with someone confirmed with COVID-19. Families returning from overseas travel must not enter the school grounds until I have discussed a management plan with them.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank our staff at this challenging time for the dedication they are showing to our students and families. It is such a time of uncertainty and many of our students are showing a different range of emotions. The staff at St Martin’s have been exceptional in working with our students and taking care of one another.
This is an evolving situation, but we will keep you updated as things change. Many parents have chosen to keep their children home, which I can understand. I encourage those families to keep the learning going by reading everyday, writing stories and following the learning sent home via the year level bulletins. If we are advised to shut down for any reason at any time, I will notify you immediately through Compass and communicate a plan of action. I ask you to continue to work closely with the school and contact me should you have any concerns. Thank you for your support.
Prayers
We take some time to celebrate the life of Fr Peter Robinson (Robbo) who passed away on 14 March 2020. He was a much loved Parish Priest of St Martin of Tours from 1993 - 2009. His humour, caring nature and friendship to all will never be forgotten and his Spirit will long live on within our Community. One with God. May he rest in peace.
We also offer prayers in the coming week for the life of our much loved Principal (2016 - 2019) Mr Dane Malone on the one year anniversary of his passing. We had planned to offer Mass for his family, colleagues, friends and school families on Thursday 2 April at 9:15am at St Martin’s Church however with the current suspension of Masses this is now not possible.
Parish Education Board
The board met for the first time last week and together we explored our 2019 parent data from the surveys completed last year. The areas discussed included; family engagement, school climate, communication and Catholic Identity. The board also has an important role in reviewing and ratifying policies.
The board acts as an advisory body to the Parish Priest and Principal on matters concerning education in the parish as well as promoting community development. If you are interested in joining the board as a parent representative or have any questions please email me and we can explore this further.
Holy Week
We may not be able to gather as a community for Mass to celebrate Holy Week this year so I strongly encourage you to please take some time with your family to reflect on the prayers shared by our Religious Education Leader Marita Anderson in her section of the newsletter, Project Compassion and Holy Week Easter Tableau.
Today I asked some of our Preps what they have loved about their first term at school…
★ Playing
★ Doing quiet things
★ Dancing the Animal Boogie
★ Playing soccer with my friends
★ Sports
★ Drawing
★ Writing
★ Playing basketball
★ Playing with my friends
★ Reading books
Now I know why the Preps love The Animal Boogie.....
Next week
Assuming it is business as usual, we will begin our week on Monday with Community Prayer and Assembly over the PA system with children sitting in their classrooms.
As we all know our much anticipated Carnival has been postponed to Sunday 29 November.
Students finish school on Friday 27 March at 1pm.
School will resume on Tuesday 14 April (after Easter)
Even though there is no formal newsletter next Friday I will send out a Principal’s Bulletin through Compass reflecting on my first term as Principal of St Martin’s.
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
Holy Week Easter Tableau
Due to our current climate and the Archdiocese decision to suspend public liturgies and celebrations of the Mass until further notice, you are encouraged to continue active participation in the life of the Church through prayer, reflection, action and participating in a Mass online.
melbournecatholic.org.au offer the following resources for you.
● Online Mass and other resources
● 1000 ways to love your neighbour during coronavirus
● Digital devotion: online resources
● Helpful prayers during this time
Holy Week Easter Tableau
We are sharing with you the Holy Week story. You may read this with your children during the Easter days to reflect on Jesus’ journey and what this means for us, today.
1. Jesus Enters Jerusalem As Jesus and His disciples approached Jerusalem, they came to the Mount Of Olives. Jesus sent two of his disciples on ahead to a village to find a donkey. They brought the donkey to Jesus and spread their cloaks over it. The people cut branches from trees and spread them on the ground too. They cheered and chanted “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest”. Reflection: Is Jesus in your life? Do you think about him? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
2. The Passover Jesus told two of his disciples to prepare for the Passover feast. At the feast Jesus took some bread, blessed it and broke it. “Take and eat” Jesus said to his disciples. Then he took a cup filled with wine and gave it to them saying “Drink all of you from this, for this is my blood. Do This In Memory of Me”. Reflection: Have I been a good person to others? Do I share and include others? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
3. Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane After the meal with his disciples, Jesus went to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. Jesus was really scared and asked his disciples to stay with him while he prayed. Jesus knew what was going to happen and he asked God if he really had to do this. He knew God would be with him. Jesus checked on his disciples 3 times but they were asleep. Jesus felt disappointed that his disciples were not there for him. Reflection: Are you a good friend? Do you let your friends down when they ask you to do something which is difficult for you? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
4. Jesus is Betrayed by Judas and Arrested While Jesus was speaking, Judas one of the disciples who shared the Passover meal with Jesus, arrived and with him were a crowd with swords and clubs and soldiers too. Judas had betrayed Jesus. Judas told the Chief Priests, who did not like Jesus, that he would kiss the man they were looking for. Judas went up to Jesus and said “Rabbi”.And then kissed him. The soldiers arrested Jesus and took him away. Reflection: Do we treat our friends fairly? Do I let others have their say? Am I loyal to my friends and classmates? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
5. Jesus Is Condemned To Die Jesus is standing before Pilate. Pilate asks Jesus “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus feels sad. There are angry people who are yelling and saying mean things to Jesus. Some of them tell lies about him saying that he did bad things. Reflection: Has anyone ever said mean or hurtful things to you or told lies about you? Do you find it hard to forgive others when you have been hurt? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
6. Jesus Takes Up His Cross The soldiers put a heavy cross on Jesus’ shoulder. He knew he had to carry that cross a long way and he knew it would be very hard for him. Jesus knows God is with him and asks God if he will help him to carry his cross even though it is too heavy. Reflection: Have you ever had something happen that was hard for you? How did you get through this difficult time? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
7. Jesus Falls The First Time Jesus was tired as he walked along the road. The stones on the road hurt his feet and the heavy cross kept pushing into his shoulder. People yelled at Jesus and pushed him. Jesus fell down but he never gave up. The love in his heart was stronger than his hurt and pain. Jesus got back up with his cross. Reflection: How do you feel when something seems too hard and you feel like giving up? How do you feel when you can’t make anyone understand what you are trying to say? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
8. Jesus Meets His Mother As Jesus carried his cross, his mother Mary came up to him. Mary was so sad to see her son Jesus in pain. Mary and Jesus can’t say anything to each other but Mary consoles Jesus. Mary’s love for Jesus kept him going. Reflection: How do you feel when you see someone you love in pain? How do you feel when your Mum holds you? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
9. Simon Helps Jesus Carry The Cross Jesus was very tired and the soldiers could see that Jesus could no longer carry the heavy cross by himself. The Roman soldiers looked in the crowd and saw a passer- by named Simon of Cyrene who looked strong enough to carry Jesus’ cross. Jesus looks at Simon and quietly says ‘Thank you’. They continue on the long road carrying the cross together. Reflection: Do you go out of your way to help others in need? How do you feel when helping is difficult? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
10. Veronica Wipes The Face of Jesus Jesus is hot, tired and sweating. His hair is tangled and he is covered in dust from the long walk. Suddenly a woman pushes her way out of the crowd and stands in front of Jesus. She takes a clean cloth and gently wipes the face of Jesus. Jesus’ face print is left on the towel. Reflection: Have you helped someone? Have you done something that makes someone feel better? Do you realize what a difference you can make to someone? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
11. Jesus Falls the Second Time In spite of the help from Simon of Cyrene, the cross was heavy and the road hard and full of stones. Jesus was unable to hold its weight and so he fell a second time. The noise of the crowd and the soldiers made Jesus feel worse. Reflection: Have you ever had a hard time with something? Maybe you can’t do something the way you want to? How does your heart feel when this happens? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
12. Jesus Falls A Third Time Jesus is so tired that he can hardly take another step. It is hard for him to breathe. He has been walking along the dusty road and he has no energy left. Then Jesus falls for a third time. Jesus asks God to help him and Jesus gets up again though this is very hard for him. Reflection: How can we be the helping hand for others? How can we be more understanding of others who find it difficult to do their best all the time? Have you ever persisted and tried again? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
13. Jesus is Stripped of His Clothes and Nailed To The Cross When they reached the place called the Skull, the soldiers crucified Jesus there with two criminals. One on the right and the other on the left. Jesus asked God to forgive them. The soldiers cast lots to share out Jesus’ clothing. Jesus looks at his mother and tells her to take care of the others. Even though Jesus accepts his fate, there are those around him that are filled with anger and hate. Reflection: Can you think of a time when someone hurt you with unkind words or actions? Was it hard to forgive? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
14. Jesus Dies On The Cross It was now the sixth hour and, with the sun eclipsed, a darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour. The veil of the temple was torn right down the middle and when Jesus cried out in a loud voice he said, “Father into your hand I commit my spirit” With these words he breathed his last and bowed his head. Reflection: What sacrifices are we prepared to make for the sake of others? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
15. Jesus Is Taken Down From The Cross and Placed in the Tomb Jesus’ friends took him down from the cross. They gave him to his mother and she held him. This was a sad moment. Jesus’s friends stayed close to Mary. After this they washed him and wrapped him in a clean sheet. They put him in the tomb and rolled a door across the doorway. They had to say goodbye to Jesus. Reflection: Do you ever thank others for special things they do for you? Are you thankful for Jesus in your life? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
Due to our current climate and the Archdiocese decision to suspend public liturgies and celebrations of the Mass until further notice, you are encouraged to continue active participation in the life of the Church through prayer, reflection, action and participating in a Mass online.
melbournecatholic.org.au offer the following resources for you.
● Online Mass and other resources
● 1000 ways to love your neighbour during coronavirus
● Digital devotion: online resources
● Helpful prayers during this time
Holy Week Easter Tableau
We are sharing with you the Holy Week story. You may read this with your children during the Easter days to reflect on Jesus’ journey and what this means for us, today.
1. Jesus Enters Jerusalem As Jesus and His disciples approached Jerusalem, they came to the Mount Of Olives. Jesus sent two of his disciples on ahead to a village to find a donkey. They brought the donkey to Jesus and spread their cloaks over it. The people cut branches from trees and spread them on the ground too. They cheered and chanted “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest”. Reflection: Is Jesus in your life? Do you think about him? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
2. The Passover Jesus told two of his disciples to prepare for the Passover feast. At the feast Jesus took some bread, blessed it and broke it. “Take and eat” Jesus said to his disciples. Then he took a cup filled with wine and gave it to them saying “Drink all of you from this, for this is my blood. Do This In Memory of Me”. Reflection: Have I been a good person to others? Do I share and include others? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
3. Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane After the meal with his disciples, Jesus went to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. Jesus was really scared and asked his disciples to stay with him while he prayed. Jesus knew what was going to happen and he asked God if he really had to do this. He knew God would be with him. Jesus checked on his disciples 3 times but they were asleep. Jesus felt disappointed that his disciples were not there for him. Reflection: Are you a good friend? Do you let your friends down when they ask you to do something which is difficult for you? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
4. Jesus is Betrayed by Judas and Arrested While Jesus was speaking, Judas one of the disciples who shared the Passover meal with Jesus, arrived and with him were a crowd with swords and clubs and soldiers too. Judas had betrayed Jesus. Judas told the Chief Priests, who did not like Jesus, that he would kiss the man they were looking for. Judas went up to Jesus and said “Rabbi”.And then kissed him. The soldiers arrested Jesus and took him away. Reflection: Do we treat our friends fairly? Do I let others have their say? Am I loyal to my friends and classmates? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
5. Jesus Is Condemned To Die Jesus is standing before Pilate. Pilate asks Jesus “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus feels sad. There are angry people who are yelling and saying mean things to Jesus. Some of them tell lies about him saying that he did bad things. Reflection: Has anyone ever said mean or hurtful things to you or told lies about you? Do you find it hard to forgive others when you have been hurt? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
6. Jesus Takes Up His Cross The soldiers put a heavy cross on Jesus’ shoulder. He knew he had to carry that cross a long way and he knew it would be very hard for him. Jesus knows God is with him and asks God if he will help him to carry his cross even though it is too heavy. Reflection: Have you ever had something happen that was hard for you? How did you get through this difficult time? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
7. Jesus Falls The First Time Jesus was tired as he walked along the road. The stones on the road hurt his feet and the heavy cross kept pushing into his shoulder. People yelled at Jesus and pushed him. Jesus fell down but he never gave up. The love in his heart was stronger than his hurt and pain. Jesus got back up with his cross. Reflection: How do you feel when something seems too hard and you feel like giving up? How do you feel when you can’t make anyone understand what you are trying to say? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
8. Jesus Meets His Mother As Jesus carried his cross, his mother Mary came up to him. Mary was so sad to see her son Jesus in pain. Mary and Jesus can’t say anything to each other but Mary consoles Jesus. Mary’s love for Jesus kept him going. Reflection: How do you feel when you see someone you love in pain? How do you feel when your Mum holds you? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
9. Simon Helps Jesus Carry The Cross Jesus was very tired and the soldiers could see that Jesus could no longer carry the heavy cross by himself. The Roman soldiers looked in the crowd and saw a passer- by named Simon of Cyrene who looked strong enough to carry Jesus’ cross. Jesus looks at Simon and quietly says ‘Thank you’. They continue on the long road carrying the cross together. Reflection: Do you go out of your way to help others in need? How do you feel when helping is difficult? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
10. Veronica Wipes The Face of Jesus Jesus is hot, tired and sweating. His hair is tangled and he is covered in dust from the long walk. Suddenly a woman pushes her way out of the crowd and stands in front of Jesus. She takes a clean cloth and gently wipes the face of Jesus. Jesus’ face print is left on the towel. Reflection: Have you helped someone? Have you done something that makes someone feel better? Do you realize what a difference you can make to someone? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
11. Jesus Falls the Second Time In spite of the help from Simon of Cyrene, the cross was heavy and the road hard and full of stones. Jesus was unable to hold its weight and so he fell a second time. The noise of the crowd and the soldiers made Jesus feel worse. Reflection: Have you ever had a hard time with something? Maybe you can’t do something the way you want to? How does your heart feel when this happens? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
12. Jesus Falls A Third Time Jesus is so tired that he can hardly take another step. It is hard for him to breathe. He has been walking along the dusty road and he has no energy left. Then Jesus falls for a third time. Jesus asks God to help him and Jesus gets up again though this is very hard for him. Reflection: How can we be the helping hand for others? How can we be more understanding of others who find it difficult to do their best all the time? Have you ever persisted and tried again? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
13. Jesus is Stripped of His Clothes and Nailed To The Cross When they reached the place called the Skull, the soldiers crucified Jesus there with two criminals. One on the right and the other on the left. Jesus asked God to forgive them. The soldiers cast lots to share out Jesus’ clothing. Jesus looks at his mother and tells her to take care of the others. Even though Jesus accepts his fate, there are those around him that are filled with anger and hate. Reflection: Can you think of a time when someone hurt you with unkind words or actions? Was it hard to forgive? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
14. Jesus Dies On The Cross It was now the sixth hour and, with the sun eclipsed, a darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour. The veil of the temple was torn right down the middle and when Jesus cried out in a loud voice he said, “Father into your hand I commit my spirit” With these words he breathed his last and bowed his head. Reflection: What sacrifices are we prepared to make for the sake of others? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
15. Jesus Is Taken Down From The Cross and Placed in the Tomb Jesus’ friends took him down from the cross. They gave him to his mother and she held him. This was a sad moment. Jesus’s friends stayed close to Mary. After this they washed him and wrapped him in a clean sheet. They put him in the tomb and rolled a door across the doorway. They had to say goodbye to Jesus. Reflection: Do you ever thank others for special things they do for you? Are you thankful for Jesus in your life? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.
Project Compassion
Project Compassion
In Malawi, 18% of the population are undernourished.
Tawonga is a 10 year old girl, living with a disability. She lives in a village in northern Malawi in a region plagued by food insecurity and poverty. For most of her life, her parents have struggled to provide food for the family.
Since participating in a Caritas Australia program, Tawonga’s life has transformed. Her family now grows enough food to provide three meals a day, ending the struggle of malnutrition, and helping her thrive at school.
With your help, this transformational program can continue to empower vulnerable women, men and children, and strengthen the communities around them.
Watch a short film about Tawonga’s story: https://lent.caritas.org.au/#blank
Thank you for supporting Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion Campaign. Your generosity will work for the freedom of those living in poverty, challenge unjust structures, and empower people to work for a sustainable way of life.
Please return all Project Compassion boxes to the school office by Friday 1st May.
Project Compassion
In Malawi, 18% of the population are undernourished.
Tawonga is a 10 year old girl, living with a disability. She lives in a village in northern Malawi in a region plagued by food insecurity and poverty. For most of her life, her parents have struggled to provide food for the family.
Since participating in a Caritas Australia program, Tawonga’s life has transformed. Her family now grows enough food to provide three meals a day, ending the struggle of malnutrition, and helping her thrive at school.
With your help, this transformational program can continue to empower vulnerable women, men and children, and strengthen the communities around them.
Watch a short film about Tawonga’s story: https://lent.caritas.org.au/#blank
Thank you for supporting Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion Campaign. Your generosity will work for the freedom of those living in poverty, challenge unjust structures, and empower people to work for a sustainable way of life.
Please return all Project Compassion boxes to the school office by Friday 1st May.
Parenting Ideas- Leading the way for children during the Coronavirus pandemic
Michael Grose
Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, is one of Australia’s leading parenting educators. He’s the author of 12 books for parents including Spoonfed Generation and the best-selling Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change It. His latest release Anxious Kids, was co-authored with Dr Jodi Richardson.
Leading the way for children during the Coronavirus pandemic 
If you’re like me, the news of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has your head spinning and your heart pumping. That’s only natural as life as we know has taken a seismic shift in recent days.
International travel bans, cancellation of sporting and cultural events, shopping frenzies and talk of school closures continue to dominate the airwaves. Terms such as social distancing, self-isolation and social lockdowns have entered our vocabularies and may soon become part of our daily lives.
Coronavirus is having an unprecedented impact on our daily lives, and will probably do so for some time. While keeping ourselves and children healthy and safe is our main concern, it’s also essential to address the anxieties of children and young people during these changing times. Here are some ideas to help inform, reassure and keep children and young people safe.
Build on what your children know
Children and young people have already been exposed to a great deal of information about corona virus through media, digital means and direct social contact. Their understanding will vary depending on their age and also the quality of their information sources so you probably will need to help kids process what they already know.
Casual conversations with teenagers and older children can be useful ways to glean their understanding. You could ask questions like “What are you hearing about Coronavirus? Is there anything you’re not sure about?” Younger primary age children may need a more direct approach with parents addressing their specific concerns without giving too much information that can overwhelm them.
Check your own thoughts and feelings
Check your own frame of mind and emotions about COVID-19 before talking to kids. Most children are astute mood detectives and they’ll gauge their safety by the way you communicate with them. If you tell a child, “You’ve got to wash your hands or you’ll get infected,” you are communicating your own anxieties, making it difficult for them to maintain a healthy state of mind. Have a think about how you can frame your instructions and their importance in a way that doesn’t heighten your child’s anxieties.
Stay informed
It’s difficult to work out fact from fiction, correct from incorrect, information from exaggeration when the news is changing so fast. However you need to educate yourself about the virus itself, including how it’s transmitted and how to stay safe. Get information from trustworthy sources such as The Australian Government Health Department website and the current federal government corona virus information media campaign.
Answer questions truthfully
It’s important that parents and teachers answer children’s questions honestly in age-appropriate ways and within context of what is happening at the given time. If their sport or hobby has been temporarily cancelled empathise with their concerns, while helping them maintain a sense of perspective.
Initiate positive action
One way to reduce anxiety and allay children’s fears is to involve them in planning and preparation for their personal and group safety. Positive activities such as maintenance of personal hygiene, greeting people with an elbow tap and getting plenty of sleep can help restore a sense of control, that is so important for their wellbeing.
Find refuge in rituals
Regular rituals such as mealtimes, bedtime stories and regular one-on-one time provide both an anchor to normality and a sense of connection for kids at times of change. Consider reconstituting favoured family rituals at this time if they have lapsed due to lack of time, or lifestyle frenzy.
Look outwards
In difficult times there is a tendency to look inwards, which is a natural protective strategy. The alternative is to establish a sense of connection and community spirit by focusing on generosity and togetherness. Help children see past their own needs and look for ways to assist others whether it’s shopping for an elderly neighbour, helping a younger sibling occupy themselves, or planning an indoor movie night for the whole family.
The Coronavirus presents many practical challenges to parents and other important adults in the lives of kids. Staying calm, keeping informed, and adjusting our own habits are just some of the challenges we face. However a significant challenge is one of personal leadership. That is, during these difficult times we need to be civil to each other, look out for each other and be mindful of the common good in everything we do. In this, we can all take a significant lead.
Michael Grose
Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, is one of Australia’s leading parenting educators. He’s the author of 12 books for parents including Spoonfed Generation and the best-selling Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change It. His latest release Anxious Kids, was co-authored with Dr Jodi Richardson.
Leading the way for children during the Coronavirus pandemic
If you’re like me, the news of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has your head spinning and your heart pumping. That’s only natural as life as we know has taken a seismic shift in recent days.
International travel bans, cancellation of sporting and cultural events, shopping frenzies and talk of school closures continue to dominate the airwaves. Terms such as social distancing, self-isolation and social lockdowns have entered our vocabularies and may soon become part of our daily lives.
Coronavirus is having an unprecedented impact on our daily lives, and will probably do so for some time. While keeping ourselves and children healthy and safe is our main concern, it’s also essential to address the anxieties of children and young people during these changing times. Here are some ideas to help inform, reassure and keep children and young people safe.
Build on what your children know
Children and young people have already been exposed to a great deal of information about corona virus through media, digital means and direct social contact. Their understanding will vary depending on their age and also the quality of their information sources so you probably will need to help kids process what they already know.
Casual conversations with teenagers and older children can be useful ways to glean their understanding. You could ask questions like “What are you hearing about Coronavirus? Is there anything you’re not sure about?” Younger primary age children may need a more direct approach with parents addressing their specific concerns without giving too much information that can overwhelm them.
Check your own thoughts and feelings
Check your own frame of mind and emotions about COVID-19 before talking to kids. Most children are astute mood detectives and they’ll gauge their safety by the way you communicate with them. If you tell a child, “You’ve got to wash your hands or you’ll get infected,” you are communicating your own anxieties, making it difficult for them to maintain a healthy state of mind. Have a think about how you can frame your instructions and their importance in a way that doesn’t heighten your child’s anxieties.
Stay informed
It’s difficult to work out fact from fiction, correct from incorrect, information from exaggeration when the news is changing so fast. However you need to educate yourself about the virus itself, including how it’s transmitted and how to stay safe. Get information from trustworthy sources such as The Australian Government Health Department website and the current federal government corona virus information media campaign.
Answer questions truthfully
It’s important that parents and teachers answer children’s questions honestly in age-appropriate ways and within context of what is happening at the given time. If their sport or hobby has been temporarily cancelled empathise with their concerns, while helping them maintain a sense of perspective.
Initiate positive action
One way to reduce anxiety and allay children’s fears is to involve them in planning and preparation for their personal and group safety. Positive activities such as maintenance of personal hygiene, greeting people with an elbow tap and getting plenty of sleep can help restore a sense of control, that is so important for their wellbeing.
Find refuge in rituals
Regular rituals such as mealtimes, bedtime stories and regular one-on-one time provide both an anchor to normality and a sense of connection for kids at times of change. Consider reconstituting favoured family rituals at this time if they have lapsed due to lack of time, or lifestyle frenzy.
Look outwards
In difficult times there is a tendency to look inwards, which is a natural protective strategy. The alternative is to establish a sense of connection and community spirit by focusing on generosity and togetherness. Help children see past their own needs and look for ways to assist others whether it’s shopping for an elderly neighbour, helping a younger sibling occupy themselves, or planning an indoor movie night for the whole family.
The Coronavirus presents many practical challenges to parents and other important adults in the lives of kids. Staying calm, keeping informed, and adjusting our own habits are just some of the challenges we face. However a significant challenge is one of personal leadership. That is, during these difficult times we need to be civil to each other, look out for each other and be mindful of the common good in everything we do. In this, we can all take a significant lead.
LRC NEWS
Premiers Reading Challenge is on it’s way!! Keep your eye out at the start of next term for registration details in the newsletter.
Story Dogs
Unfortunately our story dogs will temporarily not be visiting us in the library. We look forward to having them back in the library for pats and reading soon!
Premiers Reading Challenge is on it’s way!! Keep your eye out at the start of next term for registration details in the newsletter.
Story Dogs
Unfortunately our story dogs will temporarily not be visiting us in the library. We look forward to having them back in the library for pats and reading soon!
Student Wellbeing- Bullying No Way!
Dear parents,
Friday 20th March marks the 10th anniversary of the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence (NDA). St Martins celebrates this day every year and joins schools from around Australia to both educate our school community and promote a greater awareness of the issue. We aim to work together for a safer school and instil in our students the strategies they need to respond to this important issue.
To help us promote the day your child is invited to wear one orange item of clothing (eg, cap, socks, hair tie, runners) to school on Friday 20th March. If that is not possible rest assured that teachers will be supplying your child with an orange wristband to promote the day.
You are an essential part of what we do
At St Martin of Tours Catholic Primary School we aim to create a safe and supportive school community for everyone.
You are an important part of our work to prevent bullying and to respond effectively if it happens. Stopping bullying involves everyone.
The following tips are shared with you to compliment the work that we do at school. Parents know their children best and know the best way to tailor communication to their needs. Adapt these tips to what works for you and your child.
If your child talks to you about bullying:
1. Listen calmly and get the full story. Your calm response is important to allow your child to tell you all about the situation. After they’ve told you their story, ask questions to get more details if you need: who, what, where, when. Although you may feel some strong emotions about your child’s experience, try to keep calm to avoid more distress to your child.
2. Reassure your child they are not to blame. Many children blame themselves and this may make them feel even worse. You could say things like, ‘That sounds really hard to deal with. No one should have to put up with that.’ or ‘I’m so glad you told me. You should be able to feel safe at school; that’s not fair at all’.
3. Ask your child what they want to do and what they want you to do. A critical part of your response is to avoid jumping in to solve the problem. While it is natural to want to protect your child, helping them to find their own solution is a better option. It helps them feel they have some power in the situation.
4. Visit www.bullyingnoway.gov.au to find some strategies. The website has tips and ideas for different bullying situations. One idea is to practise strategies at home to help your child feel more confident.
5. Contact the school via the classroom teacher. Your child may be reluctant for you to do this, so discuss the idea and reassure them that their teacher would want to know and is able to help. Make an appointment to meet with your child’s teacher and, if you need to, ask to talk with the principal, Mrs Jacqui Marshall. Contact the school immediately if you have a concern about your child’s safety.
6. Check in regularly with your child. Keep the conversation going. It can take time to resolve issues, so check in regularly with your child about their experiences and their feelings. Your ongoing support is important.
If you are looking for support for yourself to deal with a bullying situation, you will find ideas on the Bullying. No Way! website for parents. As well, please feel free to contact the school if you would like to discuss any aspect of our approach to preventing bullying.
Thanks for your support to make St Martin of Tours Primary School a great school for everyone.
Warmest regards,
Jamie Atherton
Student Wellbeing Leader
Dear parents,
Friday 20th March marks the 10th anniversary of the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence (NDA). St Martins celebrates this day every year and joins schools from around Australia to both educate our school community and promote a greater awareness of the issue. We aim to work together for a safer school and instil in our students the strategies they need to respond to this important issue.
To help us promote the day your child is invited to wear one orange item of clothing (eg, cap, socks, hair tie, runners) to school on Friday 20th March. If that is not possible rest assured that teachers will be supplying your child with an orange wristband to promote the day.
You are an essential part of what we do
At St Martin of Tours Catholic Primary School we aim to create a safe and supportive school community for everyone.
You are an important part of our work to prevent bullying and to respond effectively if it happens. Stopping bullying involves everyone.
The following tips are shared with you to compliment the work that we do at school. Parents know their children best and know the best way to tailor communication to their needs. Adapt these tips to what works for you and your child.
If your child talks to you about bullying:
1. Listen calmly and get the full story. Your calm response is important to allow your child to tell you all about the situation. After they’ve told you their story, ask questions to get more details if you need: who, what, where, when. Although you may feel some strong emotions about your child’s experience, try to keep calm to avoid more distress to your child.
2. Reassure your child they are not to blame. Many children blame themselves and this may make them feel even worse. You could say things like, ‘That sounds really hard to deal with. No one should have to put up with that.’ or ‘I’m so glad you told me. You should be able to feel safe at school; that’s not fair at all’.
3. Ask your child what they want to do and what they want you to do. A critical part of your response is to avoid jumping in to solve the problem. While it is natural to want to protect your child, helping them to find their own solution is a better option. It helps them feel they have some power in the situation.
4. Visit www.bullyingnoway.gov.au to find some strategies. The website has tips and ideas for different bullying situations. One idea is to practise strategies at home to help your child feel more confident.
5. Contact the school via the classroom teacher. Your child may be reluctant for you to do this, so discuss the idea and reassure them that their teacher would want to know and is able to help. Make an appointment to meet with your child’s teacher and, if you need to, ask to talk with the principal, Mrs Jacqui Marshall. Contact the school immediately if you have a concern about your child’s safety.
6. Check in regularly with your child. Keep the conversation going. It can take time to resolve issues, so check in regularly with your child about their experiences and their feelings. Your ongoing support is important.
If you are looking for support for yourself to deal with a bullying situation, you will find ideas on the Bullying. No Way! website for parents. As well, please feel free to contact the school if you would like to discuss any aspect of our approach to preventing bullying.
Thanks for your support to make St Martin of Tours Primary School a great school for everyone.
Warmest regards,
Jamie Atherton
Student Wellbeing Leader
Nude Food is Coming to St Martin's!
School Fees
For families paying school fees via instalments first payment is due by Friday 27th March 2020
If you have any queries in relation to this or any queries regarding fees please email me
marym@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
I am in the office Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Mary Milione
Bursar
For families paying school fees via instalments first payment is due by Friday 27th March 2020
If you have any queries in relation to this or any queries regarding fees please email me
marym@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
I am in the office Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Mary Milione
Bursar
Student Awards
WEEK 7
PGR Jackson for always trying his best and having a go with challenging activities.
Michaela for sharing her super ideas in group discussions and listening carefully to others.
PPV Amelie for her enthusiasm for learning and happy demeanour. Well done Amelie.
PVL Lola for being a great friend to others. Well done!!
Abigail for being a polite and respectful girl in Prep VL. Well done!!
1B Dylan for always using his time effectively in the classroom and for completing all work to a high standard
1F Henry for your excellent handwriting and recount plan. Well done!
1LB Max for his consistent and wonderful effort during discussion time where he regularly shares his ideas in a clear manner and responds to questions. Keep up the amazing work Max!
2C
2OC Sophie for always contributing your thoughts with the class. You have valuable ideas to share.
Blake for using his place value knowledge when expanding three-digit numbers. Well done.
2T Jack F for challenging himself during place value lessons and for using his knowledge of place value to expand four and five digit numbers.
3C
3JC Clementine for using persuasive language to create an advertisement.
3MT Felicity making valuable contributions to class discussions.
4C
4T
5C Olivia D for demonstrating how to be a learning champion by always trying his best.
5L Jed C for demonstrating excellent problem solving abilities in Mathematics. Well done, Jed!
5V
6AM Adam M for persisting in Maths task and showing great results in his Whole Number Post Test. Keep working hard Adam.
6W
6ZW Dean C for showing such a drive to improve his reading this year. Dean is choosing challenging and engaging books and reading for extended periods of time well above the expectations of grade 6.
Sam R what a fantastic start to the year. I'm so impressed by your persistence with difficult tasks in Maths and your choice of books. Such a courteous member of our classroom.
WEEK 8
PGR
PPV
PVL Marcus for being an enthusiastic and engaged learner.
Bailey for making great choices and being a good role model to others.
1B Hugh for working so hard to sound out his words when reading, and for being a kind friend in 1B.
1F
1LB Evie for having a positive outlook with her learning by always aiming to challenge herself and seeking feedback to improve the overall standard of her work. Amazing effort Evie!
2C
2OC
2T
3C
3JC Isabella for using persuasive language to create an advertisement
3MT Riley for showing persistence and using higher digits with his place value work.
4C
4T
5C
5L Matthew P for taking exceptionally good care of a very upset prep student, showcasing his kindness and empathy. Well done, Matthew!
5V
6AM Chloe B for the detailed response you shared about St Martin as an example of a Spirit Filled person. Your work was through and detailed. Keep up the fantastic writing!
6W
6ZW Zach A - What a great start to the school year as School Vice Captain. Zach always has a positive attitude to his school work and shows persistence when attempting difficult tasks.
Hannah G - What a fantastic start to the school year. Hannah is a kind and courteous students who has already shown growth in her Maths, reading and descriptive writing this term.
WEEK 7
PGR Jackson for always trying his best and having a go with challenging activities.
Michaela for sharing her super ideas in group discussions and listening carefully to others.
PPV Amelie for her enthusiasm for learning and happy demeanour. Well done Amelie.
PVL Lola for being a great friend to others. Well done!!
Abigail for being a polite and respectful girl in Prep VL. Well done!!
1B Dylan for always using his time effectively in the classroom and for completing all work to a high standard
1F Henry for your excellent handwriting and recount plan. Well done!
1LB Max for his consistent and wonderful effort during discussion time where he regularly shares his ideas in a clear manner and responds to questions. Keep up the amazing work Max!
2C
2OC Sophie for always contributing your thoughts with the class. You have valuable ideas to share.
Blake for using his place value knowledge when expanding three-digit numbers. Well done.
2T Jack F for challenging himself during place value lessons and for using his knowledge of place value to expand four and five digit numbers.
3C
3JC Clementine for using persuasive language to create an advertisement.
3MT Felicity making valuable contributions to class discussions.
4C
4T
5C Olivia D for demonstrating how to be a learning champion by always trying his best.
5L Jed C for demonstrating excellent problem solving abilities in Mathematics. Well done, Jed!
5V
6AM Adam M for persisting in Maths task and showing great results in his Whole Number Post Test. Keep working hard Adam.
6W
6ZW Dean C for showing such a drive to improve his reading this year. Dean is choosing challenging and engaging books and reading for extended periods of time well above the expectations of grade 6.
Sam R what a fantastic start to the year. I'm so impressed by your persistence with difficult tasks in Maths and your choice of books. Such a courteous member of our classroom.
WEEK 8
PGR
PPV
PVL Marcus for being an enthusiastic and engaged learner.
Bailey for making great choices and being a good role model to others.
1B Hugh for working so hard to sound out his words when reading, and for being a kind friend in 1B.
1F
1LB Evie for having a positive outlook with her learning by always aiming to challenge herself and seeking feedback to improve the overall standard of her work. Amazing effort Evie!
2C
2OC
2T
3C
3JC Isabella for using persuasive language to create an advertisement
3MT Riley for showing persistence and using higher digits with his place value work.
4C
4T
5C
5L Matthew P for taking exceptionally good care of a very upset prep student, showcasing his kindness and empathy. Well done, Matthew!
5V
6AM Chloe B for the detailed response you shared about St Martin as an example of a Spirit Filled person. Your work was through and detailed. Keep up the fantastic writing!
6W
6ZW Zach A - What a great start to the school year as School Vice Captain. Zach always has a positive attitude to his school work and shows persistence when attempting difficult tasks.
Hannah G - What a fantastic start to the school year. Hannah is a kind and courteous students who has already shown growth in her Maths, reading and descriptive writing this term.
St Martin's Parish and School Carnival News
Our School/Parish Carnival has been postponed to Sunday 29th November from 11am -4pm.
Parents who have purchased wristbands for rides will have their money refunded by trybooking as soon as possible. We will still go ahead with an online Silent Auction at an appropriate date so watch this space. Thankyou for everyone’s support!
Any queries, please email: carnival@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Our School/Parish Carnival has been postponed to Sunday 29th November from 11am -4pm.
Parents who have purchased wristbands for rides will have their money refunded by trybooking as soon as possible. We will still go ahead with an online Silent Auction at an appropriate date so watch this space. Thankyou for everyone’s support!
Any queries, please email: carnival@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
PFA News
Snow Cones Day
Last Wednesday 11th of March we had our first Snow Cones Day for the year. Thank you to Adept IP for sponsoring the event and donating the syrups for the Snow Cones. We made $747.60 from the event and had many happy children. Thank you to our parent helpers on the day Michelle, Kate, Penny G, Penny K, Sally, Clara and Nadia.
PFA Persuade the Principal
The closing date for submissions is next Friday 27th March 2020.
PFA events in Term 2
Due to the current uncertainty with the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak, the PFA will review plans for any PFA activities in Term 2 after the school holidays.
PFA Community Business Directory
The St Martin of Tours School Parents and Friends’ Association (PFA) have developed a Community Business Directory for the St Martin of Tours School (SMOT), Rosanna, Community. This initiative serves to connect families, staff, alumni, parishioners and supporters of our school throughout our community.
Now, more than ever, it is so important to support our local shops and businesses, many of which are struggling during this difficult time. Why not choose from professionals within our own school community via the Business Directory?
For a small fee of $20 for the year, the Directory provides a unique opportunity for businesses to promote themselves and provide special offers directly to our SMOT Community, whilst also supporting our school.
If you would like to advertise your business, please visit: http://smotpfa.weebly.com/business-directory-registration-form.html
Snow Cones Day
Last Wednesday 11th of March we had our first Snow Cones Day for the year. Thank you to Adept IP for sponsoring the event and donating the syrups for the Snow Cones. We made $747.60 from the event and had many happy children. Thank you to our parent helpers on the day Michelle, Kate, Penny G, Penny K, Sally, Clara and Nadia.
PFA Persuade the Principal
The closing date for submissions is next Friday 27th March 2020.
PFA events in Term 2
Due to the current uncertainty with the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak, the PFA will review plans for any PFA activities in Term 2 after the school holidays.
PFA Community Business Directory
The St Martin of Tours School Parents and Friends’ Association (PFA) have developed a Community Business Directory for the St Martin of Tours School (SMOT), Rosanna, Community. This initiative serves to connect families, staff, alumni, parishioners and supporters of our school throughout our community.
Now, more than ever, it is so important to support our local shops and businesses, many of which are struggling during this difficult time. Why not choose from professionals within our own school community via the Business Directory?
For a small fee of $20 for the year, the Directory provides a unique opportunity for businesses to promote themselves and provide special offers directly to our SMOT Community, whilst also supporting our school.
If you would like to advertise your business, please visit: http://smotpfa.weebly.com/business-directory-registration-form.html
OSHClub News
OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm.
Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au
OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm.
Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au
Messages, Reminders and Dates
Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information
PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWS FEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS
Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm Cancelled
Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival Cancelled
Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1, Casual Clothes Day (Gold Coin Donation) Students Dismissed at 1pm
Due to the current circumstance, confirmed events for Term 2 will be published in our next newsletter.
Term Dates 2020
Term 1: 29th January - 27th March
Term 2: 14th April - 26 June
Term 3: 13th July - 18th September
Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)
Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information
PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWS FEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS
Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm Cancelled
Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival Cancelled
Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1, Casual Clothes Day (Gold Coin Donation) Students Dismissed at 1pm
Due to the current circumstance, confirmed events for Term 2 will be published in our next newsletter.
Term Dates 2020
Term 1: 29th January - 27th March
Term 2: 14th April - 26 June
Term 3: 13th July - 18th September
Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)
St Martin's Parish News
OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )
PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER 9401 6338. A DIVERSION REMAINS IN PLACE FOR THE OLD NUMBER, HOWEVER PLEASE UPDATE YOUR PHONE DIRECTORIES. EMAIL ENQUIRIES: macleod@cam.org.au
Message from Fr. Michael:
All weekend and weekday Masses have been suspended immediately until further notice, for funerals, weddings and baptisms please phone the Parish Office on 9401 6338, please read the Letter from the Bishops of Victoria for more information.
Sr Maria talked to me this week about a health professional she was watching on the TV. This person was giving a message to people that would help them at this time of anxiety as we face the pandemic. And the message was: “Stay balanced! - Sleep well, eat well, drink enough water, stay fit. Do not get too anxious because it will lower your immune system. Be hygienic and look after yourself and your family” This is sound and professional advice. And in regard to growing anxiety we could also say—"keep praying, trusting in God’s presence within you and with you at all times. Jesus did this always and at every testing time it always helped him so much. And he encouraged his disciples to do the same".
VALE FR PETER
It is with great sadness that we learnt this week of the passing of our dear friend and former Parish Priest Fr Peter Robinson. Fr Peter passed away on Saturday 14 March aged 87 years. Fr Peter was much loved and respected for his ministry. He was blessed with a wonderful sense of humour and a genuine love for life. He will be greatly missed by all of us. Fr Peter’s family have advised that there will be a private funeral for him next Monday 23 March with the intention of holding a more public Memorial Mass and celebration at a later stage after the COVID-19 crisis has passed.
‘O God, listen favourably to our prayers offered on behalf of your servant and priest, and grant that Peter, who committed himself zealously to the service of your name, may rejoice forever in the company of your saints. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen’.
CANCELLATIONS DUE TO THE THREAT OF COVID 19
The following functions have been cancelled due to the COVID 19 threat:
* CWA High Tea originally planned for the 28th March
* ‘ASHES TO EASTER’ Lenten Program in Heidelberg on the 26 March
OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )
PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER 9401 6338. A DIVERSION REMAINS IN PLACE FOR THE OLD NUMBER, HOWEVER PLEASE UPDATE YOUR PHONE DIRECTORIES. EMAIL ENQUIRIES: macleod@cam.org.au
Message from Fr. Michael:
All weekend and weekday Masses have been suspended immediately until further notice, for funerals, weddings and baptisms please phone the Parish Office on 9401 6338, please read the Letter from the Bishops of Victoria for more information.
Sr Maria talked to me this week about a health professional she was watching on the TV. This person was giving a message to people that would help them at this time of anxiety as we face the pandemic. And the message was: “Stay balanced! - Sleep well, eat well, drink enough water, stay fit. Do not get too anxious because it will lower your immune system. Be hygienic and look after yourself and your family” This is sound and professional advice. And in regard to growing anxiety we could also say—"keep praying, trusting in God’s presence within you and with you at all times. Jesus did this always and at every testing time it always helped him so much. And he encouraged his disciples to do the same".
VALE FR PETER
It is with great sadness that we learnt this week of the passing of our dear friend and former Parish Priest Fr Peter Robinson. Fr Peter passed away on Saturday 14 March aged 87 years. Fr Peter was much loved and respected for his ministry. He was blessed with a wonderful sense of humour and a genuine love for life. He will be greatly missed by all of us. Fr Peter’s family have advised that there will be a private funeral for him next Monday 23 March with the intention of holding a more public Memorial Mass and celebration at a later stage after the COVID-19 crisis has passed.
‘O God, listen favourably to our prayers offered on behalf of your servant and priest, and grant that Peter, who committed himself zealously to the service of your name, may rejoice forever in the company of your saints. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen’.
CANCELLATIONS DUE TO THE THREAT OF COVID 19
The following functions have been cancelled due to the COVID 19 threat:
* CWA High Tea originally planned for the 28th March
* ‘ASHES TO EASTER’ Lenten Program in Heidelberg on the 26 March
Principal's News
Dear Parents,
As we head into a long weekend it is always a great opportunity to make time for yourself and also enjoy family time together.
Over the past fortnight a lot has happened at St Martin’s. It was great to see so many families at our Prep and Year 6 buddy Mass last weekend. It was lovely hearing how well the Preps have settled in and the children could articulate how they belong to the St Martin’s community. A big thank you to the parents who supported in the supper after Mass, we do hospitality well at St Martin’s.
It was unfortunate that we had to cancel the annual Shrove Tuesday Picnic. The team were hopeful the weather would improve but the late downpour made the area unsafe. Thank you to the PFA for the time and energy put into coordinating this event. I would encourage any new parents to our school to consider joining our PFA as it is a great way to meet other parents and support our community. If you are interested please let me know.
The 2021 Prep Enrolment process has begun with our first open morning this week. I was very proud of our Year 6 students as they took prospective families on a tour of our school and shared with them the narrative of St Martin’s.
It is wonderful to see many of our families are using the Kiss n Drop Zone on bottom yard in the mornings for school drop off. We do ask that you consider the 5km driving zone through this area so that we can keep our students safe at all times.
Coronavirus update
The Catholic Education Commission of Victoria Ltd (CECV) has been provided new information regarding the emerging outbreak of COVID-19 (coronavirus). The Australian Government has updated existing travel restrictions to include visitors from Iran who are not Australian citizens or permanent residents. These restrictions were implemented from 1 March 2020.
The extension to existing travel restrictions for visitors from mainland China remains in place. Visitors from mainland China who are not Australian citizens or permanent residents, or their dependants, will not be allowed entry into Australia. These restrictions will be reviewed by 7 March 2020.
Parents/guardians/carers should ensure that any child returning from mainland China (not including Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan) from 1 February, and from Iran from 1 March, is isolated at home and should not attend school until 14 days after they were last in mainland China or Iran.
Can I please ask that any families from St Martin’s who are travelling overseas to please engage with me before returning back to school so we can ensure the safety of all in our community. I understand that many parents are concerned and as Principal I am following Catholic Education and Department of Education's guidelines in managing this situation.
I would also like to remind everyone to practice good hand hygiene and respiratory hygiene at this time. Here are some tips that everyone at school should follow:
● Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing with a tissue, or cough into your elbow.
● Dispose of the tissue into a bin and then wash your hands afterwards.
● Wash your hands regularly, after using the toilet, and before eating.
Please click here for further information and updates.
Staffing
Last week we were delighted to have a special visit from Jess Mitchem (McGrath) and baby Rosie. Carmel Chubb will remain on leave this term.
Learning Conversations
Learning Conversations are coming up on the 10th and 11th of March. They are an opportunity for you to meet and get to know your child's teacher and strengthen the link between school and home. Through the sharing of information, the teacher can understand more about your child and their needs. Thank you for scheduling a time to meet with your child’s teacher.
Catholic Education Week
Catholic Education Week is an opportunity for all Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Melbourne to celebrate their Catholic identity. Catholic Education Week will run from Sunday 15 March 2020 to Sunday 22 March 2020. The theme is 'The future is listening'. Some of our Year 6 students will attend the annual St Patrick's Day Mass at the Cathedral on Tuesday 17 March.
Carnival - Thursday 26 March
The Carnival Committee have secured some great stalls for our event in less than 3 weeks. Thank you to those who have volunteered their time to help out. Don't forget to purchase your wrist bands for unlimited rides. Soon there will be an opportunity to participate in an online silent auction with some amazing items up for grabs.
Please take some time to read this week’s parenting ideas article. It is called 'Making new friends and staying in touch with old classmates'.
Our Year 6 Student Leaders have had a focus this term of introducing themselves to our community and reflecting what they want to achieve in their roles. They have also reflected on leaders they aspire to be like. Please take the time to read what they have written.
I look forward to connecting with more of you as the term progresses.
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
Introducing our 2020 Year 6 Student Leaders
Hanna (Captain)
I love SMOT because it feels like one big family and everyone is inclusive and caring! All the teachers are amazing and make class time so much fun. If someone gets hurt at playtime, there’s always someone there to help. A leader I admire is Allysa Healy. I admire her because she is such a good cricket player, always gives 100% and is a great role model for all young girls who play cricket. When I grow up I hope to be just like Allysa Healy. This year I hope to make SMOT a better place to be. I would like to bring back a nude food day. Over the years that I have been at SMOT I have seen many wrappers all over the school. Having a nude food day will make our school a cleaner place and will also save our planet.
Luca (Captain)
At SMOT we all fit in and are encouraged to give new ideas and help make our school blossom. I admire one of our previous captains Ryan. Ryan helped me get a feel of what we have to do to help our school in 2020. One of the things I will hope to achieve this year is to try set up more fundraisers and give more money to the people who are in need or sick and try and give families a better and easier future.
Maya (Vice Captain)
I love SMOT because I always walk into school feeling happy and leave school feeling happy. It is an amazing place to learn where we all feel included and safe. We have amazing teachers and LSO’s who make us all feel good about ourselves. A leader I admire is Caitlin Bassett, the goal shooter for the Australian Diamonds and captain since 2017. Caitlin demonstrates determination and fairplay in every game. She displayed resilience to get back up last year after an unbeatable team lost an unlosable gold medal netball match at last year's commonwealth games. This year I hope to achieve going to regional athletics in sprinting and going to the Banyule District netball grand final.
Zach (Vice Captain)
I love the fact that our school SMOT is a religious school so we can learn more about Jesus and the Catholic Community. I love how our school has a buddy program so all students can either look after their buddies and the younger students have an older buddy. A leader that I have admired is a past student and vice captain Dane. When I received my badge from him last year he gave me some great tips which gave me confidence. I hope to support fundraising ideas so we can help those in need.
Lily (RE Captain)
I love all different things about SMOT. I love all the fun and everyone is nice to each other. Our school has lots of different sports we can play. All the teachers are nice and are always here to help you if you need them. A leader I admire is Sharni Layton. Sharni is now playing for Collingwood in AFLW and she used to be an excellent netballer for the Australian Diamonds. I look up to her not only because she is good at sports but because she never gives up. This year I hope to achieve all different things including helping students at our school be kind and respectful. I also want the school to become clean.
Connor (RE Captain)
What I love about SMOT is that everyone works well together. I admire Mrs. Marshall because she is new to the school and is already a lot of people's favourite person in the school. (Thank you Connor, you are very kind) This year I hope that the school is clean and a better place to be.
Noah (Tours House Captain)
I love SMOT because everyone is friendly around here and if you need help, there is always someone willing to help. The leader that I admire is Father Michael because he is respectful to everyone’s thoughts and opinions. This year I hope to make the school a better place for the students and the teachers.
Luke (Xavier House Captain)
I love that everyone at our school is unique and special in their own way. I also love that we all learn and have fun at the same time. Someone who I admire as a leader is Trent Cotchin. Ever since I was little I have been a mad Richmond supporter. The way Trent teaches the young Richmond players amazes me. One day I hope I will be just like him guiding the Richmond footy club to premierships but that starts now by showing the little ones around the school. Obviously I hope Xavier brings home the chocolates, but I'm really looking forward to making our school known for being clean, safe and friendly.
Chloe (Mercy House Captain)
I love SMOT because it is a great place to learn and has amazing teachers and students. You always feel like you belong and you can always find a friend within the school grounds. We have great classrooms and open play grounds so we always have room to run around. We have lots of interschool sports which gives us plenty of opportunities to interact with other schools. A leader I admire is St Joan of Arc. She is a great role-model and always helped people. This year I hope to help our school be a better place for students and teachers. I also hope to help Mercy win the house points competition. I would like to have the donation buckets constantly full so that we can help more people who are disadvantaged.
Charlie (McAuley House Captain)
I love that in our school everyone is welcoming and gets treated the same way as everyone else. I also love how we are a massive team and we can cooperate with each other. We always have a lot of fun. Someone who I admire is Scott Pendlebury, yep that's right I barrack for the PIES!! Ever since I was young I have looked up to him. Every time he does an amazing skill I try to do it. One day I hope that I will be guiding Collingwood, as a supporter to a Premiership win. I hope to achieve a great year and have the funniest year of my life. I want to make this school known for being a really good school even though it is the best school ever and obviously I want McAuley to bring it home.
Dear Parents,
As we head into a long weekend it is always a great opportunity to make time for yourself and also enjoy family time together.
Over the past fortnight a lot has happened at St Martin’s. It was great to see so many families at our Prep and Year 6 buddy Mass last weekend. It was lovely hearing how well the Preps have settled in and the children could articulate how they belong to the St Martin’s community. A big thank you to the parents who supported in the supper after Mass, we do hospitality well at St Martin’s.It was unfortunate that we had to cancel the annual Shrove Tuesday Picnic. The team were hopeful the weather would improve but the late downpour made the area unsafe. Thank you to the PFA for the time and energy put into coordinating this event. I would encourage any new parents to our school to consider joining our PFA as it is a great way to meet other parents and support our community. If you are interested please let me know.
The 2021 Prep Enrolment process has begun with our first open morning this week. I was very proud of our Year 6 students as they took prospective families on a tour of our school and shared with them the narrative of St Martin’s.
It is wonderful to see many of our families are using the Kiss n Drop Zone on bottom yard in the mornings for school drop off. We do ask that you consider the 5km driving zone through this area so that we can keep our students safe at all times.
Coronavirus update
The Catholic Education Commission of Victoria Ltd (CECV) has been provided new information regarding the emerging outbreak of COVID-19 (coronavirus). The Australian Government has updated existing travel restrictions to include visitors from Iran who are not Australian citizens or permanent residents. These restrictions were implemented from 1 March 2020.
The extension to existing travel restrictions for visitors from mainland China remains in place. Visitors from mainland China who are not Australian citizens or permanent residents, or their dependants, will not be allowed entry into Australia. These restrictions will be reviewed by 7 March 2020.
Parents/guardians/carers should ensure that any child returning from mainland China (not including Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan) from 1 February, and from Iran from 1 March, is isolated at home and should not attend school until 14 days after they were last in mainland China or Iran.
Can I please ask that any families from St Martin’s who are travelling overseas to please engage with me before returning back to school so we can ensure the safety of all in our community. I understand that many parents are concerned and as Principal I am following Catholic Education and Department of Education's guidelines in managing this situation.
I would also like to remind everyone to practice good hand hygiene and respiratory hygiene at this time. Here are some tips that everyone at school should follow:
● Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing with a tissue, or cough into your elbow.
● Dispose of the tissue into a bin and then wash your hands afterwards.
● Wash your hands regularly, after using the toilet, and before eating.
Please click here for further information and updates.
Staffing
Last week we were delighted to have a special visit from Jess Mitchem (McGrath) and baby Rosie. Carmel Chubb will remain on leave this term.
Learning Conversations
Learning Conversations are coming up on the 10th and 11th of March. They are an opportunity for you to meet and get to know your child's teacher and strengthen the link between school and home. Through the sharing of information, the teacher can understand more about your child and their needs. Thank you for scheduling a time to meet with your child’s teacher.
Catholic Education Week
Catholic Education Week is an opportunity for all Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Melbourne to celebrate their Catholic identity. Catholic Education Week will run from Sunday 15 March 2020 to Sunday 22 March 2020. The theme is 'The future is listening'. Some of our Year 6 students will attend the annual St Patrick's Day Mass at the Cathedral on Tuesday 17 March.
Carnival - Thursday 26 March
The Carnival Committee have secured some great stalls for our event in less than 3 weeks. Thank you to those who have volunteered their time to help out. Don't forget to purchase your wrist bands for unlimited rides. Soon there will be an opportunity to participate in an online silent auction with some amazing items up for grabs.
Please take some time to read this week’s parenting ideas article. It is called 'Making new friends and staying in touch with old classmates'.
Our Year 6 Student Leaders have had a focus this term of introducing themselves to our community and reflecting what they want to achieve in their roles. They have also reflected on leaders they aspire to be like. Please take the time to read what they have written.
I look forward to connecting with more of you as the term progresses.
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
Introducing our 2020 Year 6 Student Leaders
Hanna (Captain)
I love SMOT because it feels like one big family and everyone is inclusive and caring! All the teachers are amazing and make class time so much fun. If someone gets hurt at playtime, there’s always someone there to help. A leader I admire is Allysa Healy. I admire her because she is such a good cricket player, always gives 100% and is a great role model for all young girls who play cricket. When I grow up I hope to be just like Allysa Healy. This year I hope to make SMOT a better place to be. I would like to bring back a nude food day. Over the years that I have been at SMOT I have seen many wrappers all over the school. Having a nude food day will make our school a cleaner place and will also save our planet.
Luca (Captain)
At SMOT we all fit in and are encouraged to give new ideas and help make our school blossom. I admire one of our previous captains Ryan. Ryan helped me get a feel of what we have to do to help our school in 2020. One of the things I will hope to achieve this year is to try set up more fundraisers and give more money to the people who are in need or sick and try and give families a better and easier future.
Maya (Vice Captain)
I love SMOT because I always walk into school feeling happy and leave school feeling happy. It is an amazing place to learn where we all feel included and safe. We have amazing teachers and LSO’s who make us all feel good about ourselves. A leader I admire is Caitlin Bassett, the goal shooter for the Australian Diamonds and captain since 2017. Caitlin demonstrates determination and fairplay in every game. She displayed resilience to get back up last year after an unbeatable team lost an unlosable gold medal netball match at last year's commonwealth games. This year I hope to achieve going to regional athletics in sprinting and going to the Banyule District netball grand final.
Zach (Vice Captain)
I love the fact that our school SMOT is a religious school so we can learn more about Jesus and the Catholic Community. I love how our school has a buddy program so all students can either look after their buddies and the younger students have an older buddy. A leader that I have admired is a past student and vice captain Dane. When I received my badge from him last year he gave me some great tips which gave me confidence. I hope to support fundraising ideas so we can help those in need.
Lily (RE Captain)
I love all different things about SMOT. I love all the fun and everyone is nice to each other. Our school has lots of different sports we can play. All the teachers are nice and are always here to help you if you need them. A leader I admire is Sharni Layton. Sharni is now playing for Collingwood in AFLW and she used to be an excellent netballer for the Australian Diamonds. I look up to her not only because she is good at sports but because she never gives up. This year I hope to achieve all different things including helping students at our school be kind and respectful. I also want the school to become clean.
Connor (RE Captain)
What I love about SMOT is that everyone works well together. I admire Mrs. Marshall because she is new to the school and is already a lot of people's favourite person in the school. (Thank you Connor, you are very kind) This year I hope that the school is clean and a better place to be.
Noah (Tours House Captain)
I love SMOT because everyone is friendly around here and if you need help, there is always someone willing to help. The leader that I admire is Father Michael because he is respectful to everyone’s thoughts and opinions. This year I hope to make the school a better place for the students and the teachers.
Luke (Xavier House Captain)
I love that everyone at our school is unique and special in their own way. I also love that we all learn and have fun at the same time. Someone who I admire as a leader is Trent Cotchin. Ever since I was little I have been a mad Richmond supporter. The way Trent teaches the young Richmond players amazes me. One day I hope I will be just like him guiding the Richmond footy club to premierships but that starts now by showing the little ones around the school. Obviously I hope Xavier brings home the chocolates, but I'm really looking forward to making our school known for being clean, safe and friendly.
Chloe (Mercy House Captain)
I love SMOT because it is a great place to learn and has amazing teachers and students. You always feel like you belong and you can always find a friend within the school grounds. We have great classrooms and open play grounds so we always have room to run around. We have lots of interschool sports which gives us plenty of opportunities to interact with other schools. A leader I admire is St Joan of Arc. She is a great role-model and always helped people. This year I hope to help our school be a better place for students and teachers. I also hope to help Mercy win the house points competition. I would like to have the donation buckets constantly full so that we can help more people who are disadvantaged.
Charlie (McAuley House Captain)
I love that in our school everyone is welcoming and gets treated the same way as everyone else. I also love how we are a massive team and we can cooperate with each other. We always have a lot of fun. Someone who I admire is Scott Pendlebury, yep that's right I barrack for the PIES!! Ever since I was young I have looked up to him. Every time he does an amazing skill I try to do it. One day I hope that I will be guiding Collingwood, as a supporter to a Premiership win. I hope to achieve a great year and have the funniest year of my life. I want to make this school known for being a really good school even though it is the best school ever and obviously I want McAuley to bring it home.
Learning Conversations
Learning Conversations 
Learning conversations are coming up on the 10th and 11th of March. They are an opportunity for you to meet and get to know your child's teacher and strengthen the link between school and home. Through the sharing of information, the teacher can understand more about your child and their needs.
The learning conversation takes place between the class teacher, the child and parents. It is vital that the child is present for this meeting. The focus is to discuss with the child how they feel they are going at school and what the next steps in their learning will be. The teacher will also discuss with you their progress and show you samples of their work to date.
If parents wish to speak to the class teacher about other matters without their children present, they should make this known to the class teacher at the beginning of the session and a subsequent discussion can take place after the child has left (if time permits) or at a mutually convenient time. However, it is vital that your child is present for the duration of the learning conversation and we would ask you to take that into consideration when selecting convenient appointment times.
As a parent/caregiver, your insights are invaluable in these learning conversations. Some things to consider might include:
● Are there any family/home issues (e.g. change in living or working arrangements, unexpected loss/grief, illness) that your child’s the teacher may need to be aware of to be of support to your child?
● Do you have any concerns about any specific learning areas? Eg work habits, socialisation, Mathematics, Literacy
● Do they have any special interests/hobbies outside of school time?
● Talk with your child before the interview and ask him/her if there is anything in particular he/she would like raised at the interview.
Communication
Respectful communication is vital in the learning conversation. It is an opportunity for discussions where you can be informed, as well as actively contribute. Discussions are more productive when everybody is calm. Remember that your child’s teacher also wants the best for your child too.
Learning Conversations
Learning conversations are coming up on the 10th and 11th of March. They are an opportunity for you to meet and get to know your child's teacher and strengthen the link between school and home. Through the sharing of information, the teacher can understand more about your child and their needs.
The learning conversation takes place between the class teacher, the child and parents. It is vital that the child is present for this meeting. The focus is to discuss with the child how they feel they are going at school and what the next steps in their learning will be. The teacher will also discuss with you their progress and show you samples of their work to date.
If parents wish to speak to the class teacher about other matters without their children present, they should make this known to the class teacher at the beginning of the session and a subsequent discussion can take place after the child has left (if time permits) or at a mutually convenient time. However, it is vital that your child is present for the duration of the learning conversation and we would ask you to take that into consideration when selecting convenient appointment times.
As a parent/caregiver, your insights are invaluable in these learning conversations. Some things to consider might include:
● Are there any family/home issues (e.g. change in living or working arrangements, unexpected loss/grief, illness) that your child’s the teacher may need to be aware of to be of support to your child?
● Do you have any concerns about any specific learning areas? Eg work habits, socialisation, Mathematics, Literacy
● Do they have any special interests/hobbies outside of school time?
● Talk with your child before the interview and ask him/her if there is anything in particular he/she would like raised at the interview.
Communication
Respectful communication is vital in the learning conversation. It is an opportunity for discussions where you can be informed, as well as actively contribute. Discussions are more productive when everybody is calm. Remember that your child’s teacher also wants the best for your child too.
Parent Helper Training Sessions
PARENT HELPER TRAINING SESSIONS
At St Martin’s, we encourage parents to volunteer their time in classes to support student learning.
Parent Helpers’contributions are important and valuable to students’ learning.
If you are interested in becoming a Parent Helper that assists in classes, we ask that you attend one of our Parent Helper Training sessions (approximately one hour).
They are on the following dates:
Tuesday, 10 March at 9:15am
Wednesday, 18 March at 7pm
Please email our Literacy Leader for the Junior School to confirm your attendance. Dinesha Rajasingam - drajasingam@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
**If you are a teacher or if you have attended a training session previously you do not need to attend one of these sessions.**
PARENT HELPER TRAINING SESSIONS
At St Martin’s, we encourage parents to volunteer their time in classes to support student learning.
Parent Helpers’contributions are important and valuable to students’ learning.
If you are interested in becoming a Parent Helper that assists in classes, we ask that you attend one of our Parent Helper Training sessions (approximately one hour).
They are on the following dates:
Tuesday, 10 March at 9:15am
Wednesday, 18 March at 7pm
Please email our Literacy Leader for the Junior School to confirm your attendance. Dinesha Rajasingam - drajasingam@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
**If you are a teacher or if you have attended a training session previously you do not need to attend one of these sessions.**
Making New Friends and Staying in Touch with Old Classmates
Michael Grose
Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, is one of Australia’s leading parenting educators. He’s the author of 12 books for parents including Spoonfed Generation and the best-selling Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change It. His latest release Anxious Kids, was co-authored with Dr Jodi Richardson.
Making new friends and staying in touch with old classmates 
Educational Learning
As a parent there is a great deal you can do to help your child adjust socially at the start of the school year. Here are some tips to help.
Encourage your child to be open to new friendships
An open, friendly attitude is a child or young person’s best social asset. Students who open to forming new friendships are more likely to succeed than those who seek solitude, who are critical and who limit themselves to just one or two familiar faces. Encourage your child or young person to seek out new friendships, even though they may feel uncomfortable or strange at first.
Encourage healthy relationships
Do all you can to encourage healthy relationships based on respect and common courtesy. Generally, when a relationship is healthy a child feels safe, valued and able to speak up. Unhealthy relationships, such as cliques, are restrictive, one-sided and are full of gossip and criticism.
Encourage inclusiveness
Studies have shown inclusiveness to be one of the prime social skills shared by socially successful students. Encourage your child or young person to include others in games, conversations, team activities and other group activities. Inclusiveness is not just a wonderful friendship skill, it’s strong leadership attribute as well.
Encourage friendships with both genders
If you are in a co-education environment encourage your child to form friendships with both boys and girls. This is particularly valid if your child has siblings of their own gender, or don’t have siblings. It’s through these early relationships that we gain the confidence to mix with different genders in the later years. Forming friends across genders helps to break down the mystique that sometimes forms, when a child has little contact with the ‘other’ gender.
Stay in touch with former classmates and school friends
Encourage your child to maintain friendships with former classmates and groups outside of school as this helps to insulate against unfriendly behaviour that they may experience with their close social circle.
Provide social scripts
Your child may benefit from being provided with some social scripts that they can use in common social situations such as meeting a new friend, joining in a game or asking someone else for help. Boys, in particular, can benefit when given the words to use in a variety of different social situations.
Forming new friendships can take time
Meeting new students and forming new friendships can be anxiety-inducing. If this is the case for your child, then it helps to acknowledge their feelings of discomfort, but also remind them that these feelings will pass. As well discuss the fact that feeling comfortable with new friends often takes time, particularly if your child by nature is reserved or slow to warm up in social situations.
Helping kids work through friendships can be tricky for a parent as you don’t have a great deal of control over what happens at school. However, with empathy, patience, encouragement and a supportive attitude you can do a great deal to help your child make a smooth social transition.
Michael Grose
Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, is one of Australia’s leading parenting educators. He’s the author of 12 books for parents including Spoonfed Generation and the best-selling Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change It. His latest release Anxious Kids, was co-authored with Dr Jodi Richardson.
Making new friends and staying in touch with old classmates
Educational Learning
As a parent there is a great deal you can do to help your child adjust socially at the start of the school year. Here are some tips to help.
Encourage your child to be open to new friendships
An open, friendly attitude is a child or young person’s best social asset. Students who open to forming new friendships are more likely to succeed than those who seek solitude, who are critical and who limit themselves to just one or two familiar faces. Encourage your child or young person to seek out new friendships, even though they may feel uncomfortable or strange at first.
Encourage healthy relationships
Do all you can to encourage healthy relationships based on respect and common courtesy. Generally, when a relationship is healthy a child feels safe, valued and able to speak up. Unhealthy relationships, such as cliques, are restrictive, one-sided and are full of gossip and criticism.
Encourage inclusiveness
Studies have shown inclusiveness to be one of the prime social skills shared by socially successful students. Encourage your child or young person to include others in games, conversations, team activities and other group activities. Inclusiveness is not just a wonderful friendship skill, it’s strong leadership attribute as well.
Encourage friendships with both genders
If you are in a co-education environment encourage your child to form friendships with both boys and girls. This is particularly valid if your child has siblings of their own gender, or don’t have siblings. It’s through these early relationships that we gain the confidence to mix with different genders in the later years. Forming friends across genders helps to break down the mystique that sometimes forms, when a child has little contact with the ‘other’ gender.
Stay in touch with former classmates and school friends
Encourage your child to maintain friendships with former classmates and groups outside of school as this helps to insulate against unfriendly behaviour that they may experience with their close social circle.
Provide social scripts
Your child may benefit from being provided with some social scripts that they can use in common social situations such as meeting a new friend, joining in a game or asking someone else for help. Boys, in particular, can benefit when given the words to use in a variety of different social situations.
Forming new friendships can take time
Meeting new students and forming new friendships can be anxiety-inducing. If this is the case for your child, then it helps to acknowledge their feelings of discomfort, but also remind them that these feelings will pass. As well discuss the fact that feeling comfortable with new friends often takes time, particularly if your child by nature is reserved or slow to warm up in social situations.
Helping kids work through friendships can be tricky for a parent as you don’t have a great deal of control over what happens at school. However, with empathy, patience, encouragement and a supportive attitude you can do a great deal to help your child make a smooth social transition.
Religious Education News
Lent: Did you know? 
Lent is 40 Days long because Moses stayed on the mountain for forty days with the Lord (Exodus 24:18), Elijah travelled forty days to Horeb to encounter the Lord (Kings 19:8) and Jesus spent forty days in the wilderness praying and fasting (Matt. 4:2).
Although the number of days from Ash Wednesday through Holy Saturday add up to 46 days, we observe the season as the 40 days of Lent. Some may feel it would be more accurate to refer to it as the "forty day fast within Lent." While the Sundays during Lent are certainly a part of the season, they are not prescribed days of fast and abstinence.
Project Compassion
First Week of Lent:
Around 2.8 million children in the Philippines do not go to school.
We begin Project Compassion learning about the story of Shirley. Shirley was struggling to support her family and keep her children in school. She faced regular discrimination and disadvantage, limiting her family’s access to food, education, employment and healthcare.
With Caritas Australia’s support, Shirley trained to become an indigenous health worker. She has learnt to supplement her income and feed her family. The program has also empowered Shirley to send her children to school. Watch a short film about Shirley’s story: https://lent.caritas.org.au/#blank
Thank you
So far we have raised $250 which is bringing us closer to training 100 farmers in Malawi. Your generosity is greatly apprecated. Please return all Project Compassion boxes to school by Monday 23rd of March.
Are you thinking about baptising your child before participating in school Sacramental programs? What is RCIC?
RCIC (Rite of Christian Initiation of Children) is the process through which children of catechetical age (7 years and older), are prepared to celebrate the sacraments of initiation – Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist and be welcomed into the Catholic Church. It is the process of initiation the Church asks us to use and is modelled on the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults).
The Parish will be offering classes to children and their parents who are looking to be baptised into the Catholic faith. The Parish will conduct RCIC sessions for interested families. If you are interested in participating in these sessions, please contact Marita Anderson (REL) at school on 8458 7500 or Sr Maria at the Parish Office on 9401 6338.
Lent: Did you know?
Lent is 40 Days long because Moses stayed on the mountain for forty days with the Lord (Exodus 24:18), Elijah travelled forty days to Horeb to encounter the Lord (Kings 19:8) and Jesus spent forty days in the wilderness praying and fasting (Matt. 4:2).
Although the number of days from Ash Wednesday through Holy Saturday add up to 46 days, we observe the season as the 40 days of Lent. Some may feel it would be more accurate to refer to it as the "forty day fast within Lent." While the Sundays during Lent are certainly a part of the season, they are not prescribed days of fast and abstinence.
Project Compassion
First Week of Lent:
Around 2.8 million children in the Philippines do not go to school.
We begin Project Compassion learning about the story of Shirley. Shirley was struggling to support her family and keep her children in school. She faced regular discrimination and disadvantage, limiting her family’s access to food, education, employment and healthcare.
With Caritas Australia’s support, Shirley trained to become an indigenous health worker. She has learnt to supplement her income and feed her family. The program has also empowered Shirley to send her children to school. Watch a short film about Shirley’s story: https://lent.caritas.org.au/#blank
Thank you
So far we have raised $250 which is bringing us closer to training 100 farmers in Malawi. Your generosity is greatly apprecated. Please return all Project Compassion boxes to school by Monday 23rd of March.
Are you thinking about baptising your child before participating in school Sacramental programs? What is RCIC?
RCIC (Rite of Christian Initiation of Children) is the process through which children of catechetical age (7 years and older), are prepared to celebrate the sacraments of initiation – Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist and be welcomed into the Catholic Church. It is the process of initiation the Church asks us to use and is modelled on the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults).
The Parish will be offering classes to children and their parents who are looking to be baptised into the Catholic faith. The Parish will conduct RCIC sessions for interested families. If you are interested in participating in these sessions, please contact Marita Anderson (REL) at school on 8458 7500 or Sr Maria at the Parish Office on 9401 6338.
Window into Our Classroom
S.T.E.M 'ROBOGALS'
Congratulations to the following year five and six students Charlotte T, Olivia D, Isabelle K, Caitlin F, Mietta T, Sophie H, Hanna W, and Sarah E. These students applied and were selected to participate in the 'ROBOGALS' program at Melbourne University on Tuesday the 25th of February.
Students participated in challenges using robots and were tasked with working with students from other schools in order to solve space aged problems.
Coding the robot and checking for different types of variables was a big focus of the day and the girls did a terrific job in collaborating with other students and using different technology. Thank you to Katherine D. and Kathryn T. for being excellent parent helpers throughout the day.
Brendan Ooi
S.T.E.M Teacher
S.T.E.M 'ROBOGALS'
Congratulations to the following year five and six students Charlotte T, Olivia D, Isabelle K, Caitlin F, Mietta T, Sophie H, Hanna W, and Sarah E. These students applied and were selected to participate in the 'ROBOGALS' program at Melbourne University on Tuesday the 25th of February.
Students participated in challenges using robots and were tasked with working with students from other schools in order to solve space aged problems.
Coding the robot and checking for different types of variables was a big focus of the day and the girls did a terrific job in collaborating with other students and using different technology. Thank you to Katherine D. and Kathryn T. for being excellent parent helpers throughout the day.
Brendan Ooi
S.T.E.M Teacher
LRC News
The senior school students at SMOT are being offered the opportunity to participate in the Prime Minister's Spelling Bee. This is an online competition run by ‘Kids News’ and invites students to expand their vocabulary and practise their spelling skills in a fun environment.
Please look out for a permission to participate form that will have come home today, sign it and send it back to school as soon as possible.
Any further information can be found here: https://www.spelling-bee.com.au/
Story Dogs
So far Ava and Charlie are having a wonderful time in the library. They work just inside the library entrance, so please be mindful of entering the library quietly on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings so as not to disturb them too much.
Please explain to your children that they will need to be patient whilst waiting for a turn with Charlie and Ava. Some students will visit them each week (as is a requirement of the program), but we also have made provisions for ‘one off turns’ so that all students have a chance to read to the dogs. We have a list of interested children and we are doing our best to work through this.
The list is kept in the library, so if your child is desperate to read to the dogs, please ask them to add their name to it when they come to their library class.
The senior school students at SMOT are being offered the opportunity to participate in the Prime Minister's Spelling Bee. This is an online competition run by ‘Kids News’ and invites students to expand their vocabulary and practise their spelling skills in a fun environment.
Please look out for a permission to participate form that will have come home today, sign it and send it back to school as soon as possible.
Any further information can be found here: https://www.spelling-bee.com.au/
Story Dogs
So far Ava and Charlie are having a wonderful time in the library. They work just inside the library entrance, so please be mindful of entering the library quietly on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings so as not to disturb them too much.
Please explain to your children that they will need to be patient whilst waiting for a turn with Charlie and Ava. Some students will visit them each week (as is a requirement of the program), but we also have made provisions for ‘one off turns’ so that all students have a chance to read to the dogs. We have a list of interested children and we are doing our best to work through this.
The list is kept in the library, so if your child is desperate to read to the dogs, please ask them to add their name to it when they come to their library class.
Religious Education Dates
Religious Education Dates
March
★ 13th - St Patrick’s Day Mass and Concert for Student Leaders (all day event)
★ 21st - Year 5 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ Easter Tableau
★ 26th - Parish/School Carnival 3.30pm-8.30pm
April
★ 10th - Good Friday
★ 12th - Easter Sunday
★ 13th - Easter Monday (holiday)
★ 14th - ‘He is Risen’ Liturgy
★ 18th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 19th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 10am
★ 27th - ANZAC Assembly
May
★ 2nd - Confirmation Masses at 11am or 1.30pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Information Evening at 7pm
★ 30th - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 31st - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 10am
June
★ 6th - Winter Appeal commences
★ 13th - Year 2 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 19th - Sacred Heart Mission Mass at 9.15am
★ 20th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 21st - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am
July
★ 16th - Eucharist Retreat Day (TBC)
★ 25th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am
August
★ 7th - Mary Mackillop Mass at 9.15am
★ 8th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 9th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am
★ 14th - Feast of the Assumption Mass at 9.15am
★ 15th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 16th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am
September
★ 1st - Reconciliation Information Evening at 7pm
★ 5th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 6pm
★ 6th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 10am
October
★ 13th - 3MT Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 17th - Year 1 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 20th - 3JC Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 27th - 3C Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
November
★ 11th - St Martin of Tours Feast Day Mass at 9.15am
December
★ 14th - Graduation Mass at 5pm
★ 15th - End of School Year Mass at 9.15am
Religious Education Dates
March
★ 13th - St Patrick’s Day Mass and Concert for Student Leaders (all day event)
★ 21st - Year 5 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ Easter Tableau
★ 26th - Parish/School Carnival 3.30pm-8.30pm
April
★ 10th - Good Friday
★ 12th - Easter Sunday
★ 13th - Easter Monday (holiday)
★ 14th - ‘He is Risen’ Liturgy
★ 18th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 19th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 10am
★ 27th - ANZAC Assembly
May
★ 2nd - Confirmation Masses at 11am or 1.30pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Information Evening at 7pm
★ 30th - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 31st - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 10am
June
★ 6th - Winter Appeal commences
★ 13th - Year 2 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 19th - Sacred Heart Mission Mass at 9.15am
★ 20th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 21st - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am
July
★ 16th - Eucharist Retreat Day (TBC)
★ 25th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am
August
★ 7th - Mary Mackillop Mass at 9.15am
★ 8th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 9th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am
★ 14th - Feast of the Assumption Mass at 9.15am
★ 15th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 16th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am
September
★ 1st - Reconciliation Information Evening at 7pm
★ 5th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 6pm
★ 6th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 10am
October
★ 13th - 3MT Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 17th - Year 1 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 20th - 3JC Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 27th - 3C Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
November
★ 11th - St Martin of Tours Feast Day Mass at 9.15am
December
★ 14th - Graduation Mass at 5pm
★ 15th - End of School Year Mass at 9.15am
School Fees
For families with children participating in the music program for 2020, invoices were issued and due for payment on 3rd March 2020
If you have any queries in relation to this or any queries regarding fees please email me
marym@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
I am in the office Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Mary Milione
Bursar
For families with children participating in the music program for 2020, invoices were issued and due for payment on 3rd March 2020
If you have any queries in relation to this or any queries regarding fees please email me
marym@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
I am in the office Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Mary Milione
Bursar
Student Awards
WEEK 5
PGR Isabella for taking time to draw her wonderful pictures and for concentrating well when completing her activities.
Noe' for always being ready and lining up on the green dots and for using his polite manners at school.
PPV Zane for 'having a go' and doing his best! Well done Zane.
PVL Tully for being a kind and caring girl in Prep VL.
Oscar for making such a great start to his school days!
1B Xavier for his valuable contributions to class discussions, and for being a wonderful classroom helper.
1F Allegra for always being so helpful and kind to others with a lovely smile. Well done!
1LB Gibreel for using his time effectively during writing where he was able to record clear and interesting sentences on what makes him special. Great effort Gibreel!
2C
2OC
2T Nancy for her perseverance during place value lessons this week. A great effort!
3C Chloe for the marvellous effort that she has shown in her writing.
3JC
3MT Lia for her persistence with her learning in all areas of the curriculum especially with her Writing and Mathematics.
4C Chiara P for her hard work and effort in every lesson and the creative comic she wrote in Writer's Notebook. Well done, Chiara!
4T
5C Mikayla M for starting the year on the right foot by demonstrating how to be a learning champion.
5L Sophie H for her skilful application of the "Show, Don't Tell" strategy in writing.
5V
6AM Oliver P for always offering his thoughts and ideas when learning and in class discussions. We all value his mature responses and respect for other people’s opinions. Keep it up Oliver!
6W Lily is kind and helpful. She is on task and helps the people around her learn.
6ZW Mara S for consistently working hard in every task presented to her and tackling work at home which either isn't finished or she is having difficulties with.
WEEK 6
PGR Charlie for being a wonderful listener and for making good choices about where he sits.
Nat for showing how much she enjoys her classmates by giving them cuddles and lots of smiles.
PPV Olivia for always completing neat and well presented work! Well done Olivia.
PVL Harper for being a kind and respectful girl at all times. Super!
Liesel for always using her beautiful manners. Amazing!
1B Grace for always showing beautiful listening and being respectful towards all of her classmates in 1B
1F Sofia L for making lots of different teen numbers with counters and helping her friends make more numbers. Good work!
1LB Zoe for trying her best during Place Value where she challenged herself by making larger numbers. Fantastic effort Zoe.
2C
2OC
2T Mikaela G for her beautiful reading during teacher group this week. I love how you paid attention to punctuation. Well Done Mikaela.
3C Lucia for working really hard to complete work to the best of her ability.
3JC
3MT Thomas for including others in classroom and break time activities.
4C Olivia B for her persistence and can-do attitude in completing challenging tasks. Well done for all your hard work and effort Olivia!
4T
5C Charlotte T for starting the year on the right foot by demonstrating how to be a learning champion.
5L Jamie S for making big gains in his reading and confidently sharing his narrative piece with the class.
5V
6AM Lucia for always persisting and working hard in all learning areas. Lucia always applies herself to tasks and is also one of our School District Swimming champions. Keep up all the hard work!
6W
6ZW Hanna W for being an amazing school captain and always leading by example. All work is completed on time and to a high standard even when Hanna is called out of class on official School Captain business. What an amazing start to the year.
WEEK 5
PGR Isabella for taking time to draw her wonderful pictures and for concentrating well when completing her activities.
Noe' for always being ready and lining up on the green dots and for using his polite manners at school.
PPV Zane for 'having a go' and doing his best! Well done Zane.
PVL Tully for being a kind and caring girl in Prep VL.
Oscar for making such a great start to his school days!
1B Xavier for his valuable contributions to class discussions, and for being a wonderful classroom helper.
1F Allegra for always being so helpful and kind to others with a lovely smile. Well done!
1LB Gibreel for using his time effectively during writing where he was able to record clear and interesting sentences on what makes him special. Great effort Gibreel!
2C
2OC
2T Nancy for her perseverance during place value lessons this week. A great effort!
3C Chloe for the marvellous effort that she has shown in her writing.
3JC
3MT Lia for her persistence with her learning in all areas of the curriculum especially with her Writing and Mathematics.
4C Chiara P for her hard work and effort in every lesson and the creative comic she wrote in Writer's Notebook. Well done, Chiara!
4T
5C Mikayla M for starting the year on the right foot by demonstrating how to be a learning champion.
5L Sophie H for her skilful application of the "Show, Don't Tell" strategy in writing.
5V
6AM Oliver P for always offering his thoughts and ideas when learning and in class discussions. We all value his mature responses and respect for other people’s opinions. Keep it up Oliver!
6W Lily is kind and helpful. She is on task and helps the people around her learn.
6ZW Mara S for consistently working hard in every task presented to her and tackling work at home which either isn't finished or she is having difficulties with.
WEEK 6
PGR Charlie for being a wonderful listener and for making good choices about where he sits.
Nat for showing how much she enjoys her classmates by giving them cuddles and lots of smiles.
PPV Olivia for always completing neat and well presented work! Well done Olivia.
PVL Harper for being a kind and respectful girl at all times. Super!
Liesel for always using her beautiful manners. Amazing!
1B Grace for always showing beautiful listening and being respectful towards all of her classmates in 1B
1F Sofia L for making lots of different teen numbers with counters and helping her friends make more numbers. Good work!
1LB Zoe for trying her best during Place Value where she challenged herself by making larger numbers. Fantastic effort Zoe.
2C
2OC
2T Mikaela G for her beautiful reading during teacher group this week. I love how you paid attention to punctuation. Well Done Mikaela.
3C Lucia for working really hard to complete work to the best of her ability.
3JC
3MT Thomas for including others in classroom and break time activities.
4C Olivia B for her persistence and can-do attitude in completing challenging tasks. Well done for all your hard work and effort Olivia!
4T
5C Charlotte T for starting the year on the right foot by demonstrating how to be a learning champion.
5L Jamie S for making big gains in his reading and confidently sharing his narrative piece with the class.
5V
6AM Lucia for always persisting and working hard in all learning areas. Lucia always applies herself to tasks and is also one of our School District Swimming champions. Keep up all the hard work!
6W
6ZW Hanna W for being an amazing school captain and always leading by example. All work is completed on time and to a high standard even when Hanna is called out of class on official School Captain business. What an amazing start to the year.
St Martin's Parish and School Carnival News
In just under 3 weeks, we'll be celebrating at our school and parish carnival.
We're excited to share with you the progress of the planning thus far.
We can confirm that the following food trucks will be supplying us with delicious food, drinks and desserts.
• Curly Spuds
• Connie's Pizza
• Greek Trojan Yiros
• Mr Wonder Whip
• Elvize's Coffee Cuizine
The market stalls are all preparing for the big day, stocking up on products that will appeal to our school community.
Some of these include:
• Chelja Soy Candles - selling amazing candles, soaps, diffusers etc
• Clay by Design - beautiful handmade clay jewellery - look out for the school coloured earrings and Easter themed jewellery.
• Madwoman (Stands for Making a Difference) - a range of handmade (mostly hand sewn) items including bags, hair accessories, gratitude and thank you cards, purses, jar openers, reusable straw bags and much more. This wonderful organisation helps support Australia's most vulnerable and needy people. For more information: www.madwoman.com.au
• Boma-licious - hand made, fun, delicious smelling bath bombs, bath crumble and bubble bath with a great kids range.
• Melbourne Dance Theatre will be displaying their different genres of dance. Which might involve a little bit of dancing on top yard .... watch this space.
• Second-Hand Uniforms.
• Scrunchies made by our talented Year 6 students Declan and Maya.
• Year 5 Sustainability Stall
• Kumon
Don't forget to like our Facebook page (St Martin of Tours Carnival) for ongoing updates and pics on all things Carnival.
** FINAL CALL for businesses within the school community to come forth and assist us in the form of a donation or gift vouchers, for goods and/or services that you may be able to offer our school families and the wider community.
Thank you to all the people who have offered to volunteer at the Carnival. Your assistance is greatly appreciated and we will contact you shortly with your roster.
ONLINE SILENT AUCTION --- > Going LIVE next week!
We have some fantastic items that will be listed for auction next week until the Carnival. You do not want to miss this!
Details will be sent out via Compass and with each student soon.
Rides wrist bands are selling strong.... purchase yours prior to Friday 20th March 2020 to save $$$.
For online purchases of wristbands: https://www.trybooking.com/BIIBH
Cash payment can be made by placing order details and correct money in an envelope addressed to Carnival Committee, via the school office.
Reminder that this event (other than the external market stalls) will be CASH ONLY. So, bring lots of it (haha)
If you forget, we will have an ATM on top yard.
For any comments / questions, please email: carnival@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Be sure to follow us on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/smotcarnival/ for updated info. Please feel free to invite family, friends and our wonderful community by sharing the page and details of our Carnival.
In just under 3 weeks, we'll be celebrating at our school and parish carnival.
We're excited to share with you the progress of the planning thus far.
We can confirm that the following food trucks will be supplying us with delicious food, drinks and desserts.
• Curly Spuds
• Connie's Pizza
• Greek Trojan Yiros
• Mr Wonder Whip
• Elvize's Coffee Cuizine
The market stalls are all preparing for the big day, stocking up on products that will appeal to our school community.
Some of these include:
• Chelja Soy Candles - selling amazing candles, soaps, diffusers etc
• Clay by Design - beautiful handmade clay jewellery - look out for the school coloured earrings and Easter themed jewellery.
• Madwoman (Stands for Making a Difference) - a range of handmade (mostly hand sewn) items including bags, hair accessories, gratitude and thank you cards, purses, jar openers, reusable straw bags and much more. This wonderful organisation helps support Australia's most vulnerable and needy people. For more information: www.madwoman.com.au
• Boma-licious - hand made, fun, delicious smelling bath bombs, bath crumble and bubble bath with a great kids range.
• Melbourne Dance Theatre will be displaying their different genres of dance. Which might involve a little bit of dancing on top yard .... watch this space.
• Second-Hand Uniforms.
• Scrunchies made by our talented Year 6 students Declan and Maya.
• Year 5 Sustainability Stall
• Kumon
Don't forget to like our Facebook page (St Martin of Tours Carnival) for ongoing updates and pics on all things Carnival.
** FINAL CALL for businesses within the school community to come forth and assist us in the form of a donation or gift vouchers, for goods and/or services that you may be able to offer our school families and the wider community.
Thank you to all the people who have offered to volunteer at the Carnival. Your assistance is greatly appreciated and we will contact you shortly with your roster.
ONLINE SILENT AUCTION --- > Going LIVE next week!
We have some fantastic items that will be listed for auction next week until the Carnival. You do not want to miss this!
Details will be sent out via Compass and with each student soon.
Rides wrist bands are selling strong.... purchase yours prior to Friday 20th March 2020 to save $$$.
For online purchases of wristbands: https://www.trybooking.com/BIIBH
Cash payment can be made by placing order details and correct money in an envelope addressed to Carnival Committee, via the school office.
Reminder that this event (other than the external market stalls) will be CASH ONLY. So, bring lots of it (haha)
If you forget, we will have an ATM on top yard.
For any comments / questions, please email: carnival@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Be sure to follow us on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/smotcarnival/ for updated info. Please feel free to invite family, friends and our wonderful community by sharing the page and details of our Carnival.
Messages, Reminders and Dates
Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information
PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWS FEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS
Monday 9th March Labour Day Public Holiday
Tuesday 10 or Wednesday 11 March Parent / Teacher / Student Learning Conversations Year 1 -6 Students ONLY
Parent Helper Training Session 9.15am
Thursday 12th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am
Sunday 15th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am
Tuesday 17th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am
Wednesday 18th March Parent Helper Training Session 7pm
Thursday 19th March Prep 2021 Enrolment Information Evening
Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm
Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival
Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1, Casual Clothes Day (Gold Coin Donation) Students Dismissed at 1pm
Term Dates 2020
Term 1: 29th January - 27th March
Term 2: 14th April - 26 June
Term 3: 13th July - 18th September
Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)
Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information
PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWS FEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS
Monday 9th March Labour Day Public Holiday
Tuesday 10 or Wednesday 11 March Parent / Teacher / Student Learning Conversations Year 1 -6 Students ONLY
Parent Helper Training Session 9.15am
Thursday 12th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am
Sunday 15th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am
Tuesday 17th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am
Wednesday 18th March Parent Helper Training Session 7pm
Thursday 19th March Prep 2021 Enrolment Information Evening
Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm
Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival
Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1, Casual Clothes Day (Gold Coin Donation) Students Dismissed at 1pm
Term Dates 2020
Term 1: 29th January - 27th March
Term 2: 14th April - 26 June
Term 3: 13th July - 18th September
Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)
PFA News
PFA Community Business Directory
The St Martin of Tours School Parents and Friends’ Association (PFA) have developed a Community Business Directory for the St Martin of Tours School (SMOT), Rosanna, Community. This initiative serves to connect families, staff, alumni, parishioners and supporters of our school throughout our community.
People prefer to use service providers they know, like and trust. Rather than having to search through unknown service-providers, community members can choose from professionals within our school community via the Business Directory. Details on listing your Business in the directory have been sent home today and can be found on the Compass News feed; PFA Community Business Directory.
For a small fee of $20 for the year, the Directory provides a unique opportunity for businesses to promote themselves and provide special offers directly to our SMOT Community, whilst also supporting our school.
If you would like to advertise your business, please visit: http://smotpfa.weebly.com/business-directory-registration-form.html or email smotpfa@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au.
‘Persuade the Principal’ Student Letter
The PFA are aiming to raise $20,000 this year and we have invited St Martin Students to send a persuasive letter to Mrs Marshall to let her know their ideas on what they would like to see funds allocated towards at our School.
The Persuade the Principal letter was sent out to students on Tuesday and also posted on Compass. We will present all suggestions to Mrs Marshall and let you know in Term 2 what this year’s fundraising activities will be allocated towards.
PFA Activities
Below are upcoming dates of PFA activities for your calendar, please visit our 'Helping Hands' register at https://signup.zone/smotpfa-volunteer to sign up.
*Snow Cones Day - Wednesday 11th March
*Easter Raffle Drawn - Monday 23rd March
*Next PFA Meeting Term 2 - Tuesday 21st April (week 2)
*Mother's Day Stall - Wednesday 6th May
*Mother's Social Night - Friday 8th May
PFA Community Business Directory
The St Martin of Tours School Parents and Friends’ Association (PFA) have developed a Community Business Directory for the St Martin of Tours School (SMOT), Rosanna, Community. This initiative serves to connect families, staff, alumni, parishioners and supporters of our school throughout our community.
People prefer to use service providers they know, like and trust. Rather than having to search through unknown service-providers, community members can choose from professionals within our school community via the Business Directory. Details on listing your Business in the directory have been sent home today and can be found on the Compass News feed; PFA Community Business Directory.
For a small fee of $20 for the year, the Directory provides a unique opportunity for businesses to promote themselves and provide special offers directly to our SMOT Community, whilst also supporting our school.
If you would like to advertise your business, please visit: http://smotpfa.weebly.com/business-directory-registration-form.html or email smotpfa@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au.
‘Persuade the Principal’ Student Letter
The PFA are aiming to raise $20,000 this year and we have invited St Martin Students to send a persuasive letter to Mrs Marshall to let her know their ideas on what they would like to see funds allocated towards at our School.
The Persuade the Principal letter was sent out to students on Tuesday and also posted on Compass. We will present all suggestions to Mrs Marshall and let you know in Term 2 what this year’s fundraising activities will be allocated towards.
PFA Activities
Below are upcoming dates of PFA activities for your calendar, please visit our 'Helping Hands' register at https://signup.zone/smotpfa-volunteer to sign up.
*Snow Cones Day - Wednesday 11th March
*Easter Raffle Drawn - Monday 23rd March
*Next PFA Meeting Term 2 - Tuesday 21st April (week 2)
*Mother's Day Stall - Wednesday 6th May
*Mother's Social Night - Friday 8th May
OSHClub News
OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm.
Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au
OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm.
Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au
St Martin's Parish News
OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )
PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER 9401 6338. A DIVERSION REMAINS IN PLACE FOR THE OLD NUMBER, HOWEVER PLEASE UPDATE YOUR PHONE DIRECTORIES. ALL EMAIL ENQUIRIES PLEASE USE macleod@cam.org.au
CHRISTIAN MEDITATION GROUP
The Christian Meditation Group has commenced for the year. The group meets in the Parish House at 7.30pm on Wednesdays, except during the school holidays.
Contact Joan McKeegan on 0418 584 970
CARING FOR CREATION
Pope Francis says, "We are not faced with two separate crises, one environmental and one social, but rather one complex crisis which is both social and environmental".
I look forward to gathering with you, my fellow Catholics, and using our good hearts and minds to address this.
If you are interested, please contact me, Dennis Wollersheim, dewoller@gmail.com or 0414 529 454.
LENTEN DISCUSSION GROUP -“LIGHT FROM WITHIN”
Held in the Parish House and continuing up to Holy Week.
If you have any queries please contact the Parish Office.
Maeve Louise Heaney VDMF.
Tuesday Mornings: 10.00 - 11.00am
Thursday Evenings: 7.30 - 8.30pm
OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )
PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER 9401 6338. A DIVERSION REMAINS IN PLACE FOR THE OLD NUMBER, HOWEVER PLEASE UPDATE YOUR PHONE DIRECTORIES. ALL EMAIL ENQUIRIES PLEASE USE macleod@cam.org.au
CHRISTIAN MEDITATION GROUP
The Christian Meditation Group has commenced for the year. The group meets in the Parish House at 7.30pm on Wednesdays, except during the school holidays.
Contact Joan McKeegan on 0418 584 970
CARING FOR CREATION
Pope Francis says, "We are not faced with two separate crises, one environmental and one social, but rather one complex crisis which is both social and environmental".
I look forward to gathering with you, my fellow Catholics, and using our good hearts and minds to address this.
If you are interested, please contact me, Dennis Wollersheim, dewoller@gmail.com or 0414 529 454.
LENTEN DISCUSSION GROUP -“LIGHT FROM WITHIN”
Held in the Parish House and continuing up to Holy Week.
If you have any queries please contact the Parish Office.
Maeve Louise Heaney VDMF.
Tuesday Mornings: 10.00 - 11.00am
Thursday Evenings: 7.30 - 8.30pm
Principal's News
Dear Parents,
It was lovely to have the opportunity to meet many of you last week at the Band recruitment night, Confirmation and Prep information nights and PFA meeting. It is wonderful to see that St Martin’s provides so many opportunities for our students gifts and talents to shine and I can already see great interest in all things musical. At the Confirmation information night Fr Elio reminded our parents that we are all called and awakened by God to take on the values of Jesus. Our Prep families had the opportunity to learn all about school routines and expectations to support a successful year for their prep children.
The PFA have planned some great community and fundraising events for the year. The first one is coming up on Tuesday, Shrove Tuesday Picnic which is always a great community event.
Below are upcoming dates of PFA activities for your calendar:
Shrove Tuesday Picnic - Tuesday 25th February 5pm
Snow Cones Day - Wednesday 11th March
Easter Raffle Drawn - Monday 23rd March
Next PFA Meeting Term 2 - Tuesday 21st April
Mother's Day Stall - Wednesday 6th May
Mother's Social Night - Friday 8th May
Please take the time to read all about some new PFA initiatives such as 'St Martin of Tours School Community Business Directory' and 'Persuade the Principal' in the PFA News section of The Cloak.
Carnival News - Thursday 26 March
The committee has been working hard to ensure our Carnival is a great success. Many hands make light work so we would appreciate you offering your time to support in whatever way you can. Thank you for your generosity with the Mystery bottles and other donations that are being made. Please take the time to read all the Carnival News correspondence that is coming home.
Parenting Ideas - Michael Grose
St Martin's subscribes to ‘Parenting Ideas’ which is one of Australia’s leading providers of parenting education resources to schools. We will be uploading a new article fortnightly to our website. As parents we can often benefit from guidance when making decisions for our families. This week’s article is 'Managing separation anxiety at school drop-offs’
Community Prayer/Assembly
Our student leaders are doing a wonderful job leading our community on Monday mornings. As we finalise the best seating/standing arrangements for the students can we please ask parents to stand around the perimeter of the top yard as soon as the first bell rings. This will lessen congestion and allow teachers to supervise the students. Thank you for your support.
Prep and Year 6 Buddy Family Welcome Mass - Saturday 29 February
We look forward to our prep families and their Year 6 buddies joining us for the Prep Welcome Mass. We will be asking for God’s love as our children learn new things, make new friends and our families begin their journey at St Martin's. Our Prep families are then invited to share pizza together in the GECCO after mass.
Ash Wednesday Mass
Parents are warmly invited to attend Ash Wednesday Mass on Wednesday the 26th of February at 9.15am, please read the R.E News section of the newsletter for more information.
Parent-Teacher-Student Learning Conversations
Learning Conversations for Year 1-6 students will be held on Tuesday 10th March (4pm-8pm) and Wednesday 11th March (4pm-6pm). It is a requirement for Year 1-6 students to attend with their parents to support the conversation and establish a shared vision for the student’s learning. Bookings can be made via Compass, please check your Compass News feed for instructions and further information. Bookings close Thursday 5th March.
School Photo Day
School photos will be taken on Thursday 5th March. Students are to wear their summer uniform. Orders for school photos must be made online, further details can be found on the Compass News feed.
We keep in our prayers the family of Anthony Auslebrook who passed away recently. Anthony was a previous Principal at St Martin’s between 1988 - 1990.
Once again I have enjoyed getting in classrooms and seeing the wonderful learning taking place. My door is always open, so please come in and say hello!
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
Dear Parents,
It was lovely to have the opportunity to meet many of you last week at the Band recruitment night, Confirmation and Prep information nights and PFA meeting. It is wonderful to see that St Martin’s provides so many opportunities for our students gifts and talents to shine and I can already see great interest in all things musical. At the Confirmation information night Fr Elio reminded our parents that we are all called and awakened by God to take on the values of Jesus. Our Prep families had the opportunity to learn all about school routines and expectations to support a successful year for their prep children.
The PFA have planned some great community and fundraising events for the year. The first one is coming up on Tuesday, Shrove Tuesday Picnic which is always a great community event.
Below are upcoming dates of PFA activities for your calendar:
Shrove Tuesday Picnic - Tuesday 25th February 5pm
Snow Cones Day - Wednesday 11th March
Easter Raffle Drawn - Monday 23rd March
Next PFA Meeting Term 2 - Tuesday 21st April
Mother's Day Stall - Wednesday 6th May
Mother's Social Night - Friday 8th May
Please take the time to read all about some new PFA initiatives such as 'St Martin of Tours School Community Business Directory' and 'Persuade the Principal' in the PFA News section of The Cloak.
Carnival News - Thursday 26 March
The committee has been working hard to ensure our Carnival is a great success. Many hands make light work so we would appreciate you offering your time to support in whatever way you can. Thank you for your generosity with the Mystery bottles and other donations that are being made. Please take the time to read all the Carnival News correspondence that is coming home.
Parenting Ideas - Michael Grose
St Martin's subscribes to ‘Parenting Ideas’ which is one of Australia’s leading providers of parenting education resources to schools. We will be uploading a new article fortnightly to our website. As parents we can often benefit from guidance when making decisions for our families. This week’s article is 'Managing separation anxiety at school drop-offs’
Community Prayer/Assembly
Our student leaders are doing a wonderful job leading our community on Monday mornings. As we finalise the best seating/standing arrangements for the students can we please ask parents to stand around the perimeter of the top yard as soon as the first bell rings. This will lessen congestion and allow teachers to supervise the students. Thank you for your support.
Prep and Year 6 Buddy Family Welcome Mass - Saturday 29 February
We look forward to our prep families and their Year 6 buddies joining us for the Prep Welcome Mass. We will be asking for God’s love as our children learn new things, make new friends and our families begin their journey at St Martin's. Our Prep families are then invited to share pizza together in the GECCO after mass.
Ash Wednesday Mass
Parents are warmly invited to attend Ash Wednesday Mass on Wednesday the 26th of February at 9.15am, please read the R.E News section of the newsletter for more information.
Parent-Teacher-Student Learning Conversations
Learning Conversations for Year 1-6 students will be held on Tuesday 10th March (4pm-8pm) and Wednesday 11th March (4pm-6pm). It is a requirement for Year 1-6 students to attend with their parents to support the conversation and establish a shared vision for the student’s learning. Bookings can be made via Compass, please check your Compass News feed for instructions and further information. Bookings close Thursday 5th March.
School Photo Day
School photos will be taken on Thursday 5th March. Students are to wear their summer uniform. Orders for school photos must be made online, further details can be found on the Compass News feed.
We keep in our prayers the family of Anthony Auslebrook who passed away recently. Anthony was a previous Principal at St Martin’s between 1988 - 1990.
Once again I have enjoyed getting in classrooms and seeing the wonderful learning taking place. My door is always open, so please come in and say hello!
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
LRC News
Books are like shoes – they need to be a good fit!
In Library lessons we have been discussing how important it is to be engaged in the book you are reading.
The Year 3s have been speaking about how books are like shoes, they need to be a good fit!
The Year 4s, 5s and 6s have been using the ‘Does it engage me?’ strategy to help us choose good fit books. When we select a book in the Library, we read the first few pages. Whilst reading we ask ourselves some of the following questions to help us determine if the book ‘grabs us’ and is a good fit:
Can I read most of the words?
How do I feel about this book?
Can I see the story in my head?
Do I care what happens next?
Do I want to keep reading?
Students have been having some important conversations around how we all enjoy reading different books and our answers to the above questions will be different from our classmates.
Here are some students that have found a good fit book! Happy reading!
Story Dogs Starting!
We are so very lucky to have Ava and Charlie, our trained story dogs, working with us in the library to listen to our students read.
Ava and Charlie will be starting with us on Wednesday and Thursday next week! Yay!
Library Opening Hours
Please find a copy of our library timetable here.
We remind all families we are open every day from 8.30am, and we LOVE seeing families come in together and take some time out to read a book.
We are also open until 3.45pm on Monday, Thursday and Friday afternoons.
LRC TIMETABLE 2020
Books are like shoes – they need to be a good fit!
In Library lessons we have been discussing how important it is to be engaged in the book you are reading.
The Year 3s have been speaking about how books are like shoes, they need to be a good fit!
The Year 4s, 5s and 6s have been using the ‘Does it engage me?’ strategy to help us choose good fit books. When we select a book in the Library, we read the first few pages. Whilst reading we ask ourselves some of the following questions to help us determine if the book ‘grabs us’ and is a good fit:
Can I read most of the words?
How do I feel about this book?
Can I see the story in my head?
Do I care what happens next?
Do I want to keep reading?
Students have been having some important conversations around how we all enjoy reading different books and our answers to the above questions will be different from our classmates.
Here are some students that have found a good fit book! Happy reading!
Story Dogs Starting!
We are so very lucky to have Ava and Charlie, our trained story dogs, working with us in the library to listen to our students read.
Ava and Charlie will be starting with us on Wednesday and Thursday next week! Yay!
Library Opening Hours
Please find a copy of our library timetable here.
We remind all families we are open every day from 8.30am, and we LOVE seeing families come in together and take some time out to read a book.
We are also open until 3.45pm on Monday, Thursday and Friday afternoons.
LRC TIMETABLE 2020
Window into our Classroom
Year Six: What is ZENDALA?
Year six students completing their Zendala's during the confirmation information evening with Father Elio.
Zendala is a process of creating a Mandala using the Zentangle® technique. Using this magical art form to create beautiful tangled mandalas is a fun and easy way to create both a meditative experience and a piece of personal artwork.
The year six students used only symbols that represent Confirmation to them to create their Zendala’s. These meditative pieces of artwork will be continued throughout the term and displayed during Confirmation.
Year Five Sustainability: WASTE NOT! WANT NOT!
As part of the Year Five sustainability topic, Waste Not! Want Not!,’ we will be collecting donations of pillow cases and t-shirts that you now longer use.
We will be recycling these items into shopping bags! Items can be printed materials or plain.
We will not be accepting new items as we are encouraging students to recycle and reuse.
The more donations we get, the better!
You will get the opportunity to see our finished products during the school Fete at the Year Five sustainability stall.
Could you please send washed items to the 5V classroom by Friday 13th March.
We appreciate your support,
The Year 5 Team
Year Six: What is ZENDALA?
Year six students completing their Zendala's during the confirmation information evening with Father Elio.
Zendala is a process of creating a Mandala using the Zentangle® technique. Using this magical art form to create beautiful tangled mandalas is a fun and easy way to create both a meditative experience and a piece of personal artwork.
The year six students used only symbols that represent Confirmation to them to create their Zendala’s. These meditative pieces of artwork will be continued throughout the term and displayed during Confirmation.
Year Five Sustainability: WASTE NOT! WANT NOT!
As part of the Year Five sustainability topic, Waste Not! Want Not!,’ we will be collecting donations of pillow cases and t-shirts that you now longer use.
We will be recycling these items into shopping bags! Items can be printed materials or plain.
We will not be accepting new items as we are encouraging students to recycle and reuse.
The more donations we get, the better!
You will get the opportunity to see our finished products during the school Fete at the Year Five sustainability stall.
Could you please send washed items to the 5V classroom by Friday 13th March.
We appreciate your support,
The Year 5 Team
Managing Separation Anxiety At School Drop Offs
Michael Grose
Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, is one of Australia’s leading parenting educators. He’s the author of 12 books for parents including Spoonfed Generation and the best-selling Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change It. His latest release Anxious Kids, was co-authored with Dr Jodi Richardson.
Managing separation anxiety at school drop-offs
Going to school for most children is a positive experience however some children can struggle making the transition from their home environment to school. It’s naturally distressing to see your child upset at school drop-off but there is a great deal you can do to make school drop-offs easier for you and your child.
Breaking the cycle of separation anxiety at school
A child’s clinginess, crying or tantrums at school drop-off can be disturbing for you as a parent. Despite putting on a brave face, you can feel guilty that somehow you’re the cause of this behaviour. Unless something traumatic has occurred then leaving your child at school is a normal part of life, something your child will get used to. The following strategies may help eradicate your child’s tears and fears when you take them to school:
Tell the story
Prepare your child thoroughly each morning for what will happen when you leave your child at school. Repeat the story each morning before school so they can fully prepare for drop-off.
It takes two
Involve your child’s teacher in the drop-off process as they will be the person who must deal with an upset child. In extreme examples, at the start of term or after a long absence, a later starting time may give your child a chance to say goodbye in more relaxed circumstances.
Give me five
Rituals are both personal and reassuring so develop a special goodbye ritual that you consistently use when you leave your child each morning. Your special ritual may be simple such as a special wave or kiss, or fun such as a high five, low five, fist pump bursting into a hand explosion. Then leave quickly without stalling or looking back. Avoid making leaving a bigger deal than it what it is.
Reduce the rush
Is your child a morning star or night owl? Many children are slow starters in the morning, which can mean that they’re frequently rushed and arrive at school in highly anxious states. Do all you can to reduce morning stress, which may include earlier bed and waking times; laying out school clothes the previous evening and making minimal demands on their time.
This is the place
Location carries memory so choose carefully the place you say goodbye to your child. If a kiss or hug at the school-gate means a happy child, then you’ve probably found your goodbye place. Experiment with your goodbye location until you find one that works.
It’s your job
If goodbyes continue to cause tears, tantrums or clinginess consider, if possible, saying goodbye to your child at home and allowing another adult – your partner or another parent – to take your child to school.
If separation anxiety continues
If your child’s separation anxiety interferes with their concentration and learning, prevents them from making friends, is excessive and goes longer than a month, consider getting professional support. Separation anxiety left unchecked can lead to school refusal and other anxiety disorders later on. For professional support consult with welfare teacher at your child’s school, your local general practitioner or local council for suitable health care professionals in the area.
Michael Grose
Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, is one of Australia’s leading parenting educators. He’s the author of 12 books for parents including Spoonfed Generation and the best-selling Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change It. His latest release Anxious Kids, was co-authored with Dr Jodi Richardson.
Managing separation anxiety at school drop-offs
Going to school for most children is a positive experience however some children can struggle making the transition from their home environment to school. It’s naturally distressing to see your child upset at school drop-off but there is a great deal you can do to make school drop-offs easier for you and your child.
Breaking the cycle of separation anxiety at school
A child’s clinginess, crying or tantrums at school drop-off can be disturbing for you as a parent. Despite putting on a brave face, you can feel guilty that somehow you’re the cause of this behaviour. Unless something traumatic has occurred then leaving your child at school is a normal part of life, something your child will get used to. The following strategies may help eradicate your child’s tears and fears when you take them to school:
Tell the story
Prepare your child thoroughly each morning for what will happen when you leave your child at school. Repeat the story each morning before school so they can fully prepare for drop-off.
It takes two
Involve your child’s teacher in the drop-off process as they will be the person who must deal with an upset child. In extreme examples, at the start of term or after a long absence, a later starting time may give your child a chance to say goodbye in more relaxed circumstances.
Give me five
Rituals are both personal and reassuring so develop a special goodbye ritual that you consistently use when you leave your child each morning. Your special ritual may be simple such as a special wave or kiss, or fun such as a high five, low five, fist pump bursting into a hand explosion. Then leave quickly without stalling or looking back. Avoid making leaving a bigger deal than it what it is.
Reduce the rush
Is your child a morning star or night owl? Many children are slow starters in the morning, which can mean that they’re frequently rushed and arrive at school in highly anxious states. Do all you can to reduce morning stress, which may include earlier bed and waking times; laying out school clothes the previous evening and making minimal demands on their time.
This is the place
Location carries memory so choose carefully the place you say goodbye to your child. If a kiss or hug at the school-gate means a happy child, then you’ve probably found your goodbye place. Experiment with your goodbye location until you find one that works.
It’s your job
If goodbyes continue to cause tears, tantrums or clinginess consider, if possible, saying goodbye to your child at home and allowing another adult – your partner or another parent – to take your child to school.
If separation anxiety continues
If your child’s separation anxiety interferes with their concentration and learning, prevents them from making friends, is excessive and goes longer than a month, consider getting professional support. Separation anxiety left unchecked can lead to school refusal and other anxiety disorders later on. For professional support consult with welfare teacher at your child’s school, your local general practitioner or local council for suitable health care professionals in the area.
Religious Education News
Ash Wednesday Mass
Parents are invited to attend Ash Wednesday Mass on the 26th of February at 9.15am. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Church’s season of Lent.
During the Mass, we will receive a marking of ash on our foreheads as an expression of our faith and a sign that we are asking God for forgiveness.
Did you know?
The ashes come from the Palm Sunday palms. Parishioners have been asked to bring their palms to this weekend's masses so they can be burnt in readiness for Wednesday’s Mass. Parishioners will then receive new palms on Palm Sunday.
Project Compassion
Lent is a time of prayer, fasting and giving to others. Through prayer we come closer to God so that we are better able to realise our baptismal promise to live justly as Jesus teaches us.
Fasting joins us in solidarity with the poor who often have no choice but to go without basic needs such as food, water and shelter.
Yesterday, families received a Project Compassion box. Giving to the poor or ‘almsgiving’ is a sign of our commitment to justice and our thanks for all that God has given us.
One way we can do so during Lent, is to fill a Project Compassion box. In the last week of the term, as a school, we send the donated money to Caritas, a catholic organisation who help communities in poorer countries.
During Lent, class teachers will show some video clips from Caritas - Project Compassion of communities around the world that we have supported in past years.
To view the Caritas Project Compassion video clips, please refer to the link: https://lent.caritas.org.au/#blank
Ash Wednesday Mass
Parents are invited to attend Ash Wednesday Mass on the 26th of February at 9.15am. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Church’s season of Lent.
During the Mass, we will receive a marking of ash on our foreheads as an expression of our faith and a sign that we are asking God for forgiveness.
Did you know?
The ashes come from the Palm Sunday palms. Parishioners have been asked to bring their palms to this weekend's masses so they can be burnt in readiness for Wednesday’s Mass. Parishioners will then receive new palms on Palm Sunday.
Project Compassion
Lent is a time of prayer, fasting and giving to others. Through prayer we come closer to God so that we are better able to realise our baptismal promise to live justly as Jesus teaches us.
Fasting joins us in solidarity with the poor who often have no choice but to go without basic needs such as food, water and shelter.
Yesterday, families received a Project Compassion box. Giving to the poor or ‘almsgiving’ is a sign of our commitment to justice and our thanks for all that God has given us.
One way we can do so during Lent, is to fill a Project Compassion box. In the last week of the term, as a school, we send the donated money to Caritas, a catholic organisation who help communities in poorer countries.
During Lent, class teachers will show some video clips from Caritas - Project Compassion of communities around the world that we have supported in past years.
To view the Caritas Project Compassion video clips, please refer to the link: https://lent.caritas.org.au/#blank
Religious Education Dates
Religious Education Dates
February
★ 25th - Shrove Tuesday
★ 26th - Ash Wednesday Mass at 9.15am
★ 29th - Prep Welcome Mass at 6pm
March
★ 13th - St Patrick’s Day Mass and Concert for Student Leaders (all day event)
★ 21st - Year 5 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ Easter Tableau (TBC)
★ 26th - Parish/School Carnival 3.30pm-8.30pm
April
★ 10th - Good Friday
★ 12th - Easter Sunday
★ 13th - Easter Monday (holiday)
★ 14th - ‘He is Risen’ Liturgy
★ 18th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 19th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 10am
★ 27th - ANZAC Assembly
May
★ 2nd - Confirmation Masses at 11am or 1.30pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Information Evening at 7pm
★ 30th - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 31st - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 10am
June
★ 6th - Winter Appeal commences
★ 13th - Year 2 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 19th - Sacred Heart Mission Mass at 9.15am
★ 20th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 21st - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am
July
★ 16th - Eucharist Retreat Day (TBC)
★ 25th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am
August
★ 7th - Mary Mackillop Mass at 9.15am
★ 8th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 9th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am
★ 14th - Feast of the Assumption Mass at 9.15am
★ 15th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 16th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am
September
★ 1st - Reconciliation Information Evening at 7pm
★ 5th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 6pm
★ 6th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 10am
October
★ 13th - 3MT Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 17th - Year 1 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 20th - 3JC Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 27th - 3C Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
November
★ 11th - St Martin of Tours Feast Day Mass at 9.15am
December
★ 14th - Graduation Mass at 5pm
★ 15th - End of School Year Mass at 9.15am
Religious Education Dates
February
★ 25th - Shrove Tuesday
★ 26th - Ash Wednesday Mass at 9.15am
★ 29th - Prep Welcome Mass at 6pm
March
★ 13th - St Patrick’s Day Mass and Concert for Student Leaders (all day event)
★ 21st - Year 5 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ Easter Tableau (TBC)
★ 26th - Parish/School Carnival 3.30pm-8.30pm
April
★ 10th - Good Friday
★ 12th - Easter Sunday
★ 13th - Easter Monday (holiday)
★ 14th - ‘He is Risen’ Liturgy
★ 18th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 19th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 10am
★ 27th - ANZAC Assembly
May
★ 2nd - Confirmation Masses at 11am or 1.30pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Information Evening at 7pm
★ 30th - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 31st - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 10am
June
★ 6th - Winter Appeal commences
★ 13th - Year 2 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 19th - Sacred Heart Mission Mass at 9.15am
★ 20th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 21st - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am
July
★ 16th - Eucharist Retreat Day (TBC)
★ 25th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am
August
★ 7th - Mary Mackillop Mass at 9.15am
★ 8th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 9th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am
★ 14th - Feast of the Assumption Mass at 9.15am
★ 15th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 16th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am
September
★ 1st - Reconciliation Information Evening at 7pm
★ 5th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 6pm
★ 6th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 10am
October
★ 13th - 3MT Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 17th - Year 1 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 20th - 3JC Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 27th - 3C Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
November
★ 11th - St Martin of Tours Feast Day Mass at 9.15am
December
★ 14th - Graduation Mass at 5pm
★ 15th - End of School Year Mass at 9.15am
Parent Helper Training Sessions
PARENT HELPER TRAINING SESSIONS
At St Martin’s, we encourage parents to volunteer their time in classes to support student learning.
Parent Helpers’contributions are important and valuable to students’ learning.
If you are interested in becoming a Parent Helper that assists in classes, we ask that you attend one of our Parent Helper Training sessions (approximately one hour).
They are on the following dates:
Tuesday, 10 March at 9:15am
Wednesday, 18 March at 7pm
Please email our Literacy Leader for the Junior School to confirm your attendance. Dinesha Rajasingam - drajasingam@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
**If you are a teacher or if you have attended a training session previously you do not need to attend one of these sessions.**
PARENT HELPER TRAINING SESSIONS
At St Martin’s, we encourage parents to volunteer their time in classes to support student learning.
Parent Helpers’contributions are important and valuable to students’ learning.
If you are interested in becoming a Parent Helper that assists in classes, we ask that you attend one of our Parent Helper Training sessions (approximately one hour).
They are on the following dates:
Tuesday, 10 March at 9:15am
Wednesday, 18 March at 7pm
Please email our Literacy Leader for the Junior School to confirm your attendance. Dinesha Rajasingam - drajasingam@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
**If you are a teacher or if you have attended a training session previously you do not need to attend one of these sessions.**
Student Awards
WEEK 3
PGR Prep GR for being so wonderful starting their full days at school! Woohoo!
PPV Alex for being a fabulous member of Prep PV and participating in class activities.
PVL Clara S for colouring in so neatly and carefully. Well done!!
Fabian M for taking great care when completing his schoolwork!
1B Leo for being such a fabulous listener and a wonderful friend to everyone in 1B!
1F Sofia B for being a respectful member of the class who is always so smiley and willing to teach me Spanish! ‘Muy bien!’
1LB Milana for being a caring and friendly member of our class. She is always willing to help others and sets a fantastic example for her peers. Amazing effort Milana!
2C Chloe S for making my hear happy.
2OC Josh for always following the school rules and being a great role model.
2T Jack N, for his hard work in every lesson and the beautiful reflective prayer he wrote in R.E. Great work Jack!
3C Gabriel for being helpful and offering to assist his teacher and others.
3JC Finn R for using fantastic describing words when retelling, 'The Bear's Lunch'.
3MT Evie for using 'sizzling starts' and adjectives to make her writing come alive.
4C Aiden F for his positive attitude towards his learning and being a role model for others. Well done Aiden!
4T Max S for making good choices and setting an example for others.
5C Isabelle K for starting the year on the right foot by demonstrating how to be a learning champion.
5L Molly P for being so vigilant and looking out for the health and safety of her peers. Well done, Molly!
5V Issy for her persistence during writing tasks. She has really listened to feedback from the teacher and applies this to her writing. Keep up the growth mindset.
6AM Adam D for his huge efforts and application to his class work. You have listened, tried and applied yourself. Well done!
6W Luca has been responsible in catching up on learning tasks when he has been out of the room for leadership duties.
6ZW Liam D for being so helpful and organising Mr. Zac when he needs to be reminded of important events. Also for working hard and climbing out of the learning pit when working on binary coding.
Audrey C for making fantastic choices in class. Audrey has started the year exceptionally well focusing on her work and ignores distractions.
WEEK 4
PGR Maddie for being a great listener and a kind helper to her new friends.
Jesse for playing fairly with his friends and for using the pictures in the classroom to follow directions.
PPV Sienna for being an enthusiastic member of Prep PV. Well done Sienna.
PVL Lewis B for always using his beautiful manners at all times. Well done!!
Genevieve D for being a kind and patient member of Prep VL. Super!!
1B Kayleigh for always trying her best in all learning activities and being a kind and caring 1B class member.
1F Ethan for always putting 100% into his work and being a focussed learner. Awesome stuff!
1LB Jonty for consistently presenting his work at a wonderful standard and striving for his best in every lesson. Fantastic effort Jonty!
2C Olivia F for always staying on task and making good choices with her learning.
2OC Zara for beginning her procedure steps with a verb. Beautiful writing Zara!
2T Loukas for his outstanding enthusiasm and participation throughout our procedure unit this term. Well Done Loukas!
3C Matilda for listening attentively to the speaker and trying her best in class time.
3JC Chloe C for writing a fantastic 'sizzling start' to a story.
3MT Jacob for helping others to log onto the chromebooks and assisting those in need when using them.
4C Sam F for his positive choices in behaviour and encouraging others to meet classroom expectations. Keep it up, Sam!
4T Olivia S for always offering to help others in the classroom.
5C Jhon S for demonstrating how to be a learning champion by always trying his best.
5L Marko S for his efforts seeking out and applying teacher feedback to improve his writing. Well done on such a positive start to the year!
5V Emmy for being a kind and caring member of the classroom, by helping others in need. Thank you for helping your injured classmate during the school day. You really are a kind person.
6AM Adam K for his positive work ethic and strong work habits. His enthusiasm and maturity makes him a leader in our 6AM classroom.
6W Sid is patient and understanding, especially in Maths when he helps other students.
6ZW Lachie B for his positive attitude towards his learning and being a role model for others by always putting in 100% effort in everything he is doing.
Natasha B for going to such great lengths to climb out of the learning pit, always seeking out and applying feedback to improve her writing. Well done on such a positive start to the year!
WEEK 3
PGR Prep GR for being so wonderful starting their full days at school! Woohoo!
PPV Alex for being a fabulous member of Prep PV and participating in class activities.
PVL Clara S for colouring in so neatly and carefully. Well done!!
Fabian M for taking great care when completing his schoolwork!
1B Leo for being such a fabulous listener and a wonderful friend to everyone in 1B!
1F Sofia B for being a respectful member of the class who is always so smiley and willing to teach me Spanish! ‘Muy bien!’
1LB Milana for being a caring and friendly member of our class. She is always willing to help others and sets a fantastic example for her peers. Amazing effort Milana!
2C Chloe S for making my hear happy.
2OC Josh for always following the school rules and being a great role model.
2T Jack N, for his hard work in every lesson and the beautiful reflective prayer he wrote in R.E. Great work Jack!
3C Gabriel for being helpful and offering to assist his teacher and others.
3JC Finn R for using fantastic describing words when retelling, 'The Bear's Lunch'.
3MT Evie for using 'sizzling starts' and adjectives to make her writing come alive.
4C Aiden F for his positive attitude towards his learning and being a role model for others. Well done Aiden!
4T Max S for making good choices and setting an example for others.
5C Isabelle K for starting the year on the right foot by demonstrating how to be a learning champion.
5L Molly P for being so vigilant and looking out for the health and safety of her peers. Well done, Molly!
5V Issy for her persistence during writing tasks. She has really listened to feedback from the teacher and applies this to her writing. Keep up the growth mindset.
6AM Adam D for his huge efforts and application to his class work. You have listened, tried and applied yourself. Well done!
6W Luca has been responsible in catching up on learning tasks when he has been out of the room for leadership duties.
6ZW Liam D for being so helpful and organising Mr. Zac when he needs to be reminded of important events. Also for working hard and climbing out of the learning pit when working on binary coding.
Audrey C for making fantastic choices in class. Audrey has started the year exceptionally well focusing on her work and ignores distractions.
WEEK 4
PGR Maddie for being a great listener and a kind helper to her new friends.
Jesse for playing fairly with his friends and for using the pictures in the classroom to follow directions.
PPV Sienna for being an enthusiastic member of Prep PV. Well done Sienna.
PVL Lewis B for always using his beautiful manners at all times. Well done!!
Genevieve D for being a kind and patient member of Prep VL. Super!!
1B Kayleigh for always trying her best in all learning activities and being a kind and caring 1B class member.
1F Ethan for always putting 100% into his work and being a focussed learner. Awesome stuff!
1LB Jonty for consistently presenting his work at a wonderful standard and striving for his best in every lesson. Fantastic effort Jonty!
2C Olivia F for always staying on task and making good choices with her learning.
2OC Zara for beginning her procedure steps with a verb. Beautiful writing Zara!
2T Loukas for his outstanding enthusiasm and participation throughout our procedure unit this term. Well Done Loukas!
3C Matilda for listening attentively to the speaker and trying her best in class time.
3JC Chloe C for writing a fantastic 'sizzling start' to a story.
3MT Jacob for helping others to log onto the chromebooks and assisting those in need when using them.
4C Sam F for his positive choices in behaviour and encouraging others to meet classroom expectations. Keep it up, Sam!
4T Olivia S for always offering to help others in the classroom.
5C Jhon S for demonstrating how to be a learning champion by always trying his best.
5L Marko S for his efforts seeking out and applying teacher feedback to improve his writing. Well done on such a positive start to the year!
5V Emmy for being a kind and caring member of the classroom, by helping others in need. Thank you for helping your injured classmate during the school day. You really are a kind person.
6AM Adam K for his positive work ethic and strong work habits. His enthusiasm and maturity makes him a leader in our 6AM classroom.
6W Sid is patient and understanding, especially in Maths when he helps other students.
6ZW Lachie B for his positive attitude towards his learning and being a role model for others by always putting in 100% effort in everything he is doing.
Natasha B for going to such great lengths to climb out of the learning pit, always seeking out and applying feedback to improve her writing. Well done on such a positive start to the year!
Parent Information
PARENT INFORMATION 2020 
Welcome to the 2020 school year. We have included some general information that we hope will assist parents throughout the school year. Specific information relating to your child’s year level and class shall be provided by your child’s classroom teacher.
Starting Time
Students are expected to be at school by 8.40am and in the classroom by 8:45am. Punctuality is important as we start meditation at 8:50am on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. On Monday mornings we hold a Community Prayer and Assembly on Top Yard.
If you are late to school, please take your child to the office and sign them in via Compass. Teachers take the roll at 9:00am. Students that arrive after 9:00am will be recorded as late. The overall number of absences and late attendance will be recorded on each student’s report at the end of each semester.
Bell Times: 
8:30am Gates Open
8:40am Students begin to enter the classroom with their belongings when the music plays.
8:45am Students begin morning routine and meditation
9:00am Classes begin
11:00am Eating time
11:10am First Break
11:50am Classes resume
1:50pm Eating time
2:00pm Second Break
2:40pm Classes resume
3:30pm End of school day
School Pick Ups (Year 1-6 Students)
Please ensure you have arranged a safe pick up point with your child and throughout the year you advise your child of any changes in the usual routine for pick up. Students can leave the school grounds via the Top Yard gate around the back of the Mercy building and via the pedestrian gate at Dobson Avenue. Students can also be collected by an adult and must be escorted down the stairs to the car park. NO student is to enter the carpark without an adult. Primary age children do not have enough car awareness to walk through the car park safely.
If your child is to attend OSHClub (After School Care), it is their responsibility to know which nights they go. Please ensure you are registered with OSHClub as students who are not picked up at the end of the school day will be sent to OSHClub.
School Pick Ups (Prep Students)
At the end of the school day Prep students can be picked up from their dots.
Seesaw Digital Portfolio 
This year teachers will continue the use of a digital portfolio in place of the Learning Journals. It is an opportunity for parents to gain greater insight into learning at St. Martin’s. More information will be sent out regarding Seesaw digital portfolios from your child’s classroom teacher.
Home Practice/Learning Requirements 
An expectation of all St. Martin’s students is that they read for at least 20 minutes every night. Classroom teachers will advise parents of specific Home Practice/Learning Requirements for each year level.
Specialist Timetable 
Your classroom teacher will avise you of the days your child has Library, LOTE, STEM, Art, Music and Sport.
Brain Food 
We encourage healthy eating because of the benefits this has to both our mind and body. We ask that students bring a labelled small plastic container with diced or chopped up fruit or vegetables (Nude Food) that can be eaten as a snack during class time.
Communication 
All our school communication is via Compass. Parents can email their child’s classroom teacher via Compass. Due to teaching and meeting commitments it may take up to three working days before a teacher is able to respond to emails. If your matter is urgent, please contact the school office.
Absences
Student absences must be placed on Compass as soon as possible. Failure to place an absence on Compass will result in parents receiving an SMS from the school office. As a courtesy, could you please provide your child’s classroom teacher with an email, so that they are able to monitor your child upon their return to school.
Early Leavers
If you need to pick your child up before 3:30pm, please enter this absence on Compass indicating the time of early release, late arrival or return to school. As a courtesy please send a short note with your child to give to the classroom teacher on the day. If possible avoid collecting your child during first and second break as students can be difficult to find on the yard.
Permission Forms
Permission forms for excursions are sent via Compass. Please check Compass regularly and ensure you approve excursions by the due date. Failure to approve an excursion may result in your child not being able to attend.
Medication
If students require medicine to be administered during school time, you will need to complete a Medical Request Form, (also available at the school office). Please clearly label all medicine as it is kept in the school office. Medication will be given by the office staff and must be returned to an adult.
Allergies
At St. Martin’s we strongly encourage 'no sharing of food' amongst students due to some students having allergies. We also ask parents not to send products containing nuts. Please advise the school office of changes to your child’s medical condition so that our school records are up to date.
Birthdays 
If you wish to send a treat for your child’s birthday, please refrain from sending food, we ask you to consider those students that have food allergies. Instead please consider sending in small items, such as, balloons, bubbles, stickers, pencils etc.
School Visitors/Parent Volunteers 
It is a legal requirement that all parent helpers and visitors assisting in any way in the classroom, sport days or on excursions MUST have a current Working With Children Check (WWCC). You will need to provide your WWCC number to the school office when signing in. Please ensure you check the expiry date of your card.
School Uniform, Hats and Bags
Full school uniform must be worn appropriately at all times, this includes wearing sports uniforms on sports days. If your child is out of uniform please provide your child’s teacher with a note explaining why. Please ensure you label ALL school uniform items. Hats are to be worn in Terms 1 and 4. No hat means No play. Sunscreen is strongly encouraged however it is your child’s responsibility to apply it within school hours.
We also encourage all students to carry their own school bag to and from school and to be responsible for packing and unpacking their own bags.
Canteen 
The canteen is open on Thursdays and Fridays. Students are able to purchase icy poles during first and second break. Lunch order items are listed on the canten menu.
Office Items
If any money is to be sent to the school office, please ensure it is clearly labelled with your child’s name, class, the amount payable and what it is for and given to your child's classroom teacher.
We ask parents to advise the school of any changes to family/student information as they occur e.g. home address, emergency contacts, place of employment and occupation. These changes can be made by completing a Change of Information Form.
Personal Items 
Students are not to bring mobile phones or electronic devices to school. Expensive and sentimental toys/items are also discouraged, as they could be easily damaged or lost. Please label any balls etc. with your child’s name. Lost property is located near the school office.
Please visit our school website for further information.
We wish families a smooth start to the 2020 school year.
PARENT INFORMATION 2020
Welcome to the 2020 school year. We have included some general information that we hope will assist parents throughout the school year. Specific information relating to your child’s year level and class shall be provided by your child’s classroom teacher.
Starting Time
Students are expected to be at school by 8.40am and in the classroom by 8:45am. Punctuality is important as we start meditation at 8:50am on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. On Monday mornings we hold a Community Prayer and Assembly on Top Yard.
If you are late to school, please take your child to the office and sign them in via Compass. Teachers take the roll at 9:00am. Students that arrive after 9:00am will be recorded as late. The overall number of absences and late attendance will be recorded on each student’s report at the end of each semester.
Bell Times:
8:30am Gates Open
8:40am Students begin to enter the classroom with their belongings when the music plays.
8:45am Students begin morning routine and meditation
9:00am Classes begin
11:00am Eating time
11:10am First Break
11:50am Classes resume
1:50pm Eating time
2:00pm Second Break
2:40pm Classes resume
3:30pm End of school day
School Pick Ups (Year 1-6 Students)
Please ensure you have arranged a safe pick up point with your child and throughout the year you advise your child of any changes in the usual routine for pick up. Students can leave the school grounds via the Top Yard gate around the back of the Mercy building and via the pedestrian gate at Dobson Avenue. Students can also be collected by an adult and must be escorted down the stairs to the car park. NO student is to enter the carpark without an adult. Primary age children do not have enough car awareness to walk through the car park safely.
If your child is to attend OSHClub (After School Care), it is their responsibility to know which nights they go. Please ensure you are registered with OSHClub as students who are not picked up at the end of the school day will be sent to OSHClub.
School Pick Ups (Prep Students)
At the end of the school day Prep students can be picked up from their dots.
Seesaw Digital Portfolio
This year teachers will continue the use of a digital portfolio in place of the Learning Journals. It is an opportunity for parents to gain greater insight into learning at St. Martin’s. More information will be sent out regarding Seesaw digital portfolios from your child’s classroom teacher.
Home Practice/Learning Requirements
An expectation of all St. Martin’s students is that they read for at least 20 minutes every night. Classroom teachers will advise parents of specific Home Practice/Learning Requirements for each year level.
Specialist Timetable
Your classroom teacher will avise you of the days your child has Library, LOTE, STEM, Art, Music and Sport.
Brain Food
We encourage healthy eating because of the benefits this has to both our mind and body. We ask that students bring a labelled small plastic container with diced or chopped up fruit or vegetables (Nude Food) that can be eaten as a snack during class time.
Communication
All our school communication is via Compass. Parents can email their child’s classroom teacher via Compass. Due to teaching and meeting commitments it may take up to three working days before a teacher is able to respond to emails. If your matter is urgent, please contact the school office.
Absences
Student absences must be placed on Compass as soon as possible. Failure to place an absence on Compass will result in parents receiving an SMS from the school office. As a courtesy, could you please provide your child’s classroom teacher with an email, so that they are able to monitor your child upon their return to school.
Early Leavers
If you need to pick your child up before 3:30pm, please enter this absence on Compass indicating the time of early release, late arrival or return to school. As a courtesy please send a short note with your child to give to the classroom teacher on the day. If possible avoid collecting your child during first and second break as students can be difficult to find on the yard.
Permission Forms
Permission forms for excursions are sent via Compass. Please check Compass regularly and ensure you approve excursions by the due date. Failure to approve an excursion may result in your child not being able to attend.
Medication
If students require medicine to be administered during school time, you will need to complete a Medical Request Form, (also available at the school office). Please clearly label all medicine as it is kept in the school office. Medication will be given by the office staff and must be returned to an adult.
Allergies
At St. Martin’s we strongly encourage 'no sharing of food' amongst students due to some students having allergies. We also ask parents not to send products containing nuts. Please advise the school office of changes to your child’s medical condition so that our school records are up to date.
Birthdays
If you wish to send a treat for your child’s birthday, please refrain from sending food, we ask you to consider those students that have food allergies. Instead please consider sending in small items, such as, balloons, bubbles, stickers, pencils etc.
School Visitors/Parent Volunteers
It is a legal requirement that all parent helpers and visitors assisting in any way in the classroom, sport days or on excursions MUST have a current Working With Children Check (WWCC). You will need to provide your WWCC number to the school office when signing in. Please ensure you check the expiry date of your card.
School Uniform, Hats and Bags
Full school uniform must be worn appropriately at all times, this includes wearing sports uniforms on sports days. If your child is out of uniform please provide your child’s teacher with a note explaining why. Please ensure you label ALL school uniform items. Hats are to be worn in Terms 1 and 4. No hat means No play. Sunscreen is strongly encouraged however it is your child’s responsibility to apply it within school hours.
We also encourage all students to carry their own school bag to and from school and to be responsible for packing and unpacking their own bags.
Canteen
The canteen is open on Thursdays and Fridays. Students are able to purchase icy poles during first and second break. Lunch order items are listed on the canten menu.
Office Items
If any money is to be sent to the school office, please ensure it is clearly labelled with your child’s name, class, the amount payable and what it is for and given to your child's classroom teacher.
We ask parents to advise the school of any changes to family/student information as they occur e.g. home address, emergency contacts, place of employment and occupation. These changes can be made by completing a Change of Information Form.
Personal Items
Students are not to bring mobile phones or electronic devices to school. Expensive and sentimental toys/items are also discouraged, as they could be easily damaged or lost. Please label any balls etc. with your child’s name. Lost property is located near the school office.
Please visit our school website for further information.
We wish families a smooth start to the 2020 school year.
St Martin's Parish and School Carnival News
The St Martin of Tours School & Parish Carnival is 5 weeks away!! Make sure you have Thursday 26th of March booked in your calendar for a fun afternoon celebrating our School, Parish and Community.
Our Carnival flyer and ride wristband booking details have gone home with students today. They contain lots of information about the Carnival so please take the time to read them. Un-limited ride wristband bookings are now open on Trybooking- https://www.trybooking.com/BIIBH
Wristbands are $30 per child for unlimited rides on the Cha Cha, Bungee Run, Chair-o-plane, Giant slide, Jumping Castle and Activity Centre. Early Bird wristband sales on Trybooking close on Friday 20th March and after that wristbands will be $35.
Requests for Carnival Volunteers on various stalls went out yesterday via different year levels, these formas are also available on the Compass News feed. Please complete the form that was sent home and return it to the office if you are able to volunteer your time on that stall, or email us at carnival@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Many hands make light work, so your help is greatly appreciated!
We are also still looking for people with a current RSA to help out with the bar on a roster basis, no longer than an hour of your time. Please get in touch if you can assist.
Collection of second hand children's books and games (both in good quality) is still ongoing. Collection tubs are outside the GECCO and house points will be received for each item.
Be sure to follow us on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/smotcarnival/ for updated info. Please feel free to invite family, friends and our wonderful community by sharing the page and details of our Carnival.
The St Martin of Tours School & Parish Carnival is 5 weeks away!! Make sure you have Thursday 26th of March booked in your calendar for a fun afternoon celebrating our School, Parish and Community.
Our Carnival flyer and ride wristband booking details have gone home with students today. They contain lots of information about the Carnival so please take the time to read them. Un-limited ride wristband bookings are now open on Trybooking- https://www.trybooking.com/BIIBH
Wristbands are $30 per child for unlimited rides on the Cha Cha, Bungee Run, Chair-o-plane, Giant slide, Jumping Castle and Activity Centre. Early Bird wristband sales on Trybooking close on Friday 20th March and after that wristbands will be $35.
Requests for Carnival Volunteers on various stalls went out yesterday via different year levels, these formas are also available on the Compass News feed. Please complete the form that was sent home and return it to the office if you are able to volunteer your time on that stall, or email us at carnival@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Many hands make light work, so your help is greatly appreciated!
We are also still looking for people with a current RSA to help out with the bar on a roster basis, no longer than an hour of your time. Please get in touch if you can assist.
Collection of second hand children's books and games (both in good quality) is still ongoing. Collection tubs are outside the GECCO and house points will be received for each item.
Be sure to follow us on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/smotcarnival/ for updated info. Please feel free to invite family, friends and our wonderful community by sharing the page and details of our Carnival.
PFA News
The PFA held its first meeting of 2020 last Wednesday evening and we had a productive start to the year with our fundraising planning.
Below are upcoming dates of PFA activities for your calendar.
*Shrove Tuesday Picnic - Tuesday 25th February 5pm
*Snow Cones Day - Wednesday 11th March
*Easter Raffle Drawn - Monday 23rd March
*Next PFA Meeting Term 2 - Tuesday 21st April (week 2)
*Mother's Day Stall - Wednesday 6th May
*Mother's Social Night - Friday 8th May
PFA Community Business Directory
The St Martin of Tours School Parents and Friends’ Association (PFA) have developed a Community Business Directory for the St Martin of Tours School (SMOT), Rosanna, Community. This initiative serves to connect families, staff, alumni, parishioners and supporters of our school throughout our community.
People prefer to use service providers they know, like and trust. Rather than having to search through unknown service-providers, community members can choose from professionals within our school community via the Business Directory. Details on listing your Business in the directory have been sent home today and can be found on the Compass News feed; PFA Community Business Directory.
For a small fee of $20 for the year, the Directory provides a unique opportunity for businesses to promote themselves and provide special offers directly to our SMOT Community, whilst also supporting our school.
If you would like to advertise your business, please visit: http://smotpfa.weebly.com/business-directory-registration-form.html or email smotpfa@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au.
Shrove Tuesday Picnic - Tuesday 25th February 5pm
Our first event for the year is hosting the annual St Martin of Tours Shrove Tuesday Picnic this Tuesday at 5pm.
There will be BBQ sausages, pancakes and drinks for sale. Lawn games and two jumping castles ($2 ticket).
Please bring BYO picnic blankets, chairs etc. It's always a lovely evening to catch up with friends or to meet new ones in our community. If you are able to spare 30 minutes of your time to assist serving food, please visit our Helping Hands register at https://signup.zone/smotpfa-volunteer to sign up.
‘Persuade the Principal’ Student Letter
The PFA are aiming to raise $20,000 this year and we have invited St Martin Students to send a persuasive letter to Mrs Marshall to let her know their ideas on what they would like to see funds allocated towards at our School.
The Persuade the Principal letter was sent out to students on Tuesday and also posted on Compass. We will present all suggestions to Mrs Marshall and let you know in Term 2 what this year’s fundraising activities will be allocated towards.
PFA Administration Note
On an administration note, we would like to remind the community that St Martin of Tours School Parents and Friends' Association is a School Controlled PFA.
In late 2019 we held a Special General Meeting where our Constitution was amended to include the necessary wording to comply with the CECV Financial Compliance Obligations Guide (2016) since becoming a School Controlled PFA in late 2016. There have also been procedural changes during this time to ensure we are following the guide and school audit requirements.
Being a School Controlled PFA means that the income and expenses of the PFA are included in the School's annual financial statements. As funds raised by PFA activities already form part of the School's financial reports, the decision on how fundraising money will be allocated lies with the Principal. The PFA do not have discretion to make decisions on allocating PFA money that is not for fundraising purposes.
The PFA held its first meeting of 2020 last Wednesday evening and we had a productive start to the year with our fundraising planning.
Below are upcoming dates of PFA activities for your calendar.
*Shrove Tuesday Picnic - Tuesday 25th February 5pm
*Snow Cones Day - Wednesday 11th March
*Easter Raffle Drawn - Monday 23rd March
*Next PFA Meeting Term 2 - Tuesday 21st April (week 2)
*Mother's Day Stall - Wednesday 6th May
*Mother's Social Night - Friday 8th May
PFA Community Business Directory
The St Martin of Tours School Parents and Friends’ Association (PFA) have developed a Community Business Directory for the St Martin of Tours School (SMOT), Rosanna, Community. This initiative serves to connect families, staff, alumni, parishioners and supporters of our school throughout our community.
People prefer to use service providers they know, like and trust. Rather than having to search through unknown service-providers, community members can choose from professionals within our school community via the Business Directory. Details on listing your Business in the directory have been sent home today and can be found on the Compass News feed; PFA Community Business Directory.
For a small fee of $20 for the year, the Directory provides a unique opportunity for businesses to promote themselves and provide special offers directly to our SMOT Community, whilst also supporting our school.
If you would like to advertise your business, please visit: http://smotpfa.weebly.com/business-directory-registration-form.html or email smotpfa@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au.
Shrove Tuesday Picnic - Tuesday 25th February 5pm
Our first event for the year is hosting the annual St Martin of Tours Shrove Tuesday Picnic this Tuesday at 5pm.
There will be BBQ sausages, pancakes and drinks for sale. Lawn games and two jumping castles ($2 ticket).
Please bring BYO picnic blankets, chairs etc. It's always a lovely evening to catch up with friends or to meet new ones in our community. If you are able to spare 30 minutes of your time to assist serving food, please visit our Helping Hands register at https://signup.zone/smotpfa-volunteer to sign up.
‘Persuade the Principal’ Student Letter
The PFA are aiming to raise $20,000 this year and we have invited St Martin Students to send a persuasive letter to Mrs Marshall to let her know their ideas on what they would like to see funds allocated towards at our School.
The Persuade the Principal letter was sent out to students on Tuesday and also posted on Compass. We will present all suggestions to Mrs Marshall and let you know in Term 2 what this year’s fundraising activities will be allocated towards.
PFA Administration Note
On an administration note, we would like to remind the community that St Martin of Tours School Parents and Friends' Association is a School Controlled PFA.
In late 2019 we held a Special General Meeting where our Constitution was amended to include the necessary wording to comply with the CECV Financial Compliance Obligations Guide (2016) since becoming a School Controlled PFA in late 2016. There have also been procedural changes during this time to ensure we are following the guide and school audit requirements.
Being a School Controlled PFA means that the income and expenses of the PFA are included in the School's annual financial statements. As funds raised by PFA activities already form part of the School's financial reports, the decision on how fundraising money will be allocated lies with the Principal. The PFA do not have discretion to make decisions on allocating PFA money that is not for fundraising purposes.
Messages, Reminders and Dates
Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information
PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWS FEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS
Tuesday 25th February Shrove Tuesday PFA Picnic 5pm
Wednesday 26th February Ash Wednesday Whole School Mass 9.15am
Saturday 29th February Prep and Year 6 Buddy Family Welcome Mass 6pm
Tuesday 3rd March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am
Thursday 5th March School Photo Day Students to wear Summer Uniform
Monday 9th March Labour Day Public Holiday
Tuesday 10 or Wednesday 11 March Parent / Teacher / Student Learning Conversations Year 1 -6 Students ONLY
Parent Helper Training Session 9.15am
Thursday 12th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am
Sunday 15th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am
Tuesday 17th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am
Wednesday 18th March Parent Helper Training Session 7pm
Thursday 19th March Prep 2021 Enrolment Information Evening
Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm
Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival
Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1
Term Dates 2020
Term 1: 29th January - 27th March
Term 2: 14th April - 26 June
Term 3: 13th July - 18th September
Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)
Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information
PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWS FEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS
Tuesday 25th February Shrove Tuesday PFA Picnic 5pm
Wednesday 26th February Ash Wednesday Whole School Mass 9.15am
Saturday 29th February Prep and Year 6 Buddy Family Welcome Mass 6pm
Tuesday 3rd March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am
Thursday 5th March School Photo Day Students to wear Summer Uniform
Monday 9th March Labour Day Public Holiday
Tuesday 10 or Wednesday 11 March Parent / Teacher / Student Learning Conversations Year 1 -6 Students ONLY
Parent Helper Training Session 9.15am
Thursday 12th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am
Sunday 15th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am
Tuesday 17th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am
Wednesday 18th March Parent Helper Training Session 7pm
Thursday 19th March Prep 2021 Enrolment Information Evening
Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm
Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival
Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1
Term Dates 2020
Term 1: 29th January - 27th March
Term 2: 14th April - 26 June
Term 3: 13th July - 18th September
Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)
OSHClub News
OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm.
Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au
OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm.
Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au
St Martin's Parish News
OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm ) 03 9401 6338
ASH WEDNESDAY 26th February 2020
MASSES - 9.15 AM and 7.30 PM
Project compassion boxes will be available on this day.
LENTEN DISCUSSION GROUP - “LIGHT FROM WITHIN”
Maeve Louise Heaney VDMF.
Tuesday Morning: 25th February 2020, 10.00 - 11.00am
Thursday Evening: 27th February 2020, 7.30 - 8.30pm
Held in the Parish House and continuing up to Holy Week.
Please put your name on the sign up sheets in the foyer to indicate your attendance to the Lenten discussion sessions.
The parish office will order books for you to use during these sessions. If you have any queries please contact the Parish Office.
ALTAR SERVER’S TRAINING:
All students from Year 3 upwards are invited to attend Altar Server’s training on Tuesday 3rd March at 11.45 am in the Church.
BAPTISM TEAM:
Volunteers are invited to join this Team. Those interested in this important role, please contact the Parish Office. Training will be provided.
Children’s Liturgy Program- WE NEED MORE VOLUNTEERS !!
The purpose of this Ministry is to bring the Good News to the younger members of our community, in a safe and age-appropriate environment.
Volunteer parents and helpers take children out to partake in a short lesson based on the readings of the day during 10 am mass.
Suitably trained adults are welcome to join as leaders and helpers of the program. Children aged 4 – 12 are invited forward at every mass during the academic year.
There are currently 10 adults involved in this ministry. Working with Children Checks are required.
Adults may contact the Pastoral Associate, Sr. Maria Bui maria.bui@cam.org.au or the Coordinator: Sarah Gittins at Sarah.Gittins@bigpond.com
OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm ) 03 9401 6338
ASH WEDNESDAY 26th February 2020
MASSES - 9.15 AM and 7.30 PM
Project compassion boxes will be available on this day.
LENTEN DISCUSSION GROUP - “LIGHT FROM WITHIN”
Maeve Louise Heaney VDMF.
Tuesday Morning: 25th February 2020, 10.00 - 11.00am
Thursday Evening: 27th February 2020, 7.30 - 8.30pm
Held in the Parish House and continuing up to Holy Week.
Please put your name on the sign up sheets in the foyer to indicate your attendance to the Lenten discussion sessions.
The parish office will order books for you to use during these sessions. If you have any queries please contact the Parish Office.
ALTAR SERVER’S TRAINING:
All students from Year 3 upwards are invited to attend Altar Server’s training on Tuesday 3rd March at 11.45 am in the Church.
BAPTISM TEAM:
Volunteers are invited to join this Team. Those interested in this important role, please contact the Parish Office. Training will be provided.
Children’s Liturgy Program- WE NEED MORE VOLUNTEERS !!
The purpose of this Ministry is to bring the Good News to the younger members of our community, in a safe and age-appropriate environment.
Volunteer parents and helpers take children out to partake in a short lesson based on the readings of the day during 10 am mass.
Suitably trained adults are welcome to join as leaders and helpers of the program. Children aged 4 – 12 are invited forward at every mass during the academic year.
There are currently 10 adults involved in this ministry. Working with Children Checks are required.
Adults may contact the Pastoral Associate, Sr. Maria Bui maria.bui@cam.org.au or the Coordinator: Sarah Gittins at Sarah.Gittins@bigpond.com
Principal's News
Dear Parents
Our students have settled into their new classes getting to know their teachers and classmates. Yesterday Fr Michael and I walked around the school with our school captains Hanna and Luca and blessed all the learning spaces, children and staff. At the beginning of the school year mass on Tuesday, we gathered together and asked God to bless us all and guide us in all that we do. The choir consisting of students and teachers, sang with joy as we embrace a year of new beginnings.
We welcome many new families to St Martin's this year and look forward to supporting them on their journey. Communication processes are very important in understanding the life of a school so I encourage all families to regularly check Compass and the school events calendar for upcoming events. Our fortnightly school newsletter will provide valuable information as schools are vibrant places that provide many opportunities for celebration of learning, social and community events and enrichment, information and faith formation experiences.
Our prep students are loving school life.
Many of our volunteer groups such as; Parents and Friends Association, Parish Education Board and Carnival Committee are planning their dates for the year which will be included in the calendar shortly.
Community Prayer and Assembly
Every Monday morning at 8.50am, parents are invited to join Fr Michael, the student leaders, teachers and students to participate in our Community Prayer on top yard. Parents are invited to stand next to their own children to listen to the weekly Gospel Reading and announcements about other events which involve the student community. We conclude our Community Prayer and Assembly with the raising of the flags whilst singing our national anthem.
School closure days for 2020
The following days have been set aside for staff professional learning. As we are undergoing a Catholic Education School Review this year additional days are needed to address school improvement and compliance matters. I will outline the review process at a later date. Thank you for your support. Wednesday 17 June, Thursday 23 July, Thursday 15 October, Friday 16 October, Monday 2 November (day before Cup Day) and Monday 30 November.
Parking and student safety reminders
Student safety is very important and the beginning of the year is a time to remind you all of the processes for morning drop off and afternoon pick up.
Morning
Kiss and Drop - each morning at 8.30am the Silk St entrance to bottom yard is opened for a ‘Kiss and Drop’ procedure. Cars enter in a single file and stay in single file and move towards the junior playground equipment. A teacher will be on duty adjacent to the play equipment. Students will be able to exit their car from this point only. No parking on bottom yard. Cars must exit via Dobson Avenue gates.
Afternoon
The bottom yard will be opened at 3.15pm. Cars must enter through the Silk Street gate and exit through Dobson Avenue gate. Parents may park in the yard from this time onwards. Children are to be collected by parents from a designated safe point within the school yard. Children will be under the supervision of the teacher on yard duty. Playgrounds are out of bounds before and after school. Do not wait in your car or call children through the traffic. To avoid traffic congestion it is suggested that where possible, cars are parked away from the school and children walk the remaining distance. Walking promotes physical activity, independence and responsibility in children.
Silk Street Pick-up/Drop-off Zone
This zone is designed for quick movement of cars and is a council enforced standing time of 2 minutes - no parking is permitted. Normal parking restrictions and council signs should be observed when the flags are displayed on the School Crossing. Note that cars may only turn left out of Silk Street and NO cars should attempt to make a U turn and hold up the flow of traffic along the drop-off area. Parents are welcome to use the community centre car park located on the corner of Silk Street and Lower Plenty Road when there is a space available.
Mercy Building car park
Parents are asked not to park in this area for the safety of students. There may be times when community events are happening that it may be open and we will advise this through compass.
Thank you for your support.
School Counsellor
Throughout this term we will be reviewing our school counsellor program. Feedback will be sought from families and staff. During this time all matters related to Student Wellbeing should be directed to your child’s classroom teacher, Jamie Atherton (Student Wellbeing Leader) or Jacqui Marshall (Principal).
Upcoming events
Monday 10 Feb Community Prayer and Assembly - 8:50am
Band Program Information and Recruitment Night - 7pm
Tuesday 11 Feb Confirmation Information Night - 7pm
Wednesday 12 Feb Prep 2020 Information Night - 7pm
PFA Meeting - 7:45pm
Saturday 15 Feb Confirmation commitment mass - 6pm
Sunday 16 Feb Confirmation commitment mass - 10am
Monday 17 Feb Community Prayer and Assembly - 8:50am
Tuesday 25 Feb Shrove Tuesday Picnic - 5pm
2021 Prep Enrolments are NOW OPEN
It is that time again where we ask existing families to drop into the school office to register, collect and complete an enrolment form for their child. It would be appreciated if families could do so as soon as possible so that we can make some projections of how many places we are able to offer new families. Parents are welcome to spread the word to potential new families that our enrolments are now being taken for 2021.
2020 Open Days - Please let your friends know.
School tours will be conducted at 9.30am on each of the following days. Tours will be approximately 30–45 minutes and will be conducted by staff and Year 6 students.
● Tuesday, 3rd March
● Thursday, 12th March
● Sunday 15th March
● Tuesday, 17th March
● Tuesday, 5th May
Prep 2021 Enrolment Information Evening – Thursday 19th March, 7pm.
Families are welcome to contact the school office to arrange a personal tour on other days.
This term we excitedly prepare for the St Martin's Carnival on 26 March. I have been so impressed by how much has already been achieved by the committee and know they are looking for volunteers to support. Your generosity of time is much appreciated.
I will introduce our student school leaders to you in our next newsletter.
Congratulations to Jess McGrath and her husband Johnny on the safe arrival of their beautiful daughter Rosie Merle. We look forward to meeting Rosie when Jess pops in for a visit.
Thank you for the warm words of welcome and I look forward to walking alongside you all to ensure your children meet their potential. St Martins is a wonderful place to be.
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
Dear Parents
Our students have settled into their new classes getting to know their teachers and classmates. Yesterday Fr Michael and I walked around the school with our school captains Hanna and Luca and blessed all the learning spaces, children and staff. At the beginning of the school year mass on Tuesday, we gathered together and asked God to bless us all and guide us in all that we do. The choir consisting of students and teachers, sang with joy as we embrace a year of new beginnings.
We welcome many new families to St Martin's this year and look forward to supporting them on their journey. Communication processes are very important in understanding the life of a school so I encourage all families to regularly check Compass and the school events calendar for upcoming events. Our fortnightly school newsletter will provide valuable information as schools are vibrant places that provide many opportunities for celebration of learning, social and community events and enrichment, information and faith formation experiences.
Our prep students are loving school life.
Many of our volunteer groups such as; Parents and Friends Association, Parish Education Board and Carnival Committee are planning their dates for the year which will be included in the calendar shortly.
Community Prayer and Assembly
Every Monday morning at 8.50am, parents are invited to join Fr Michael, the student leaders, teachers and students to participate in our Community Prayer on top yard. Parents are invited to stand next to their own children to listen to the weekly Gospel Reading and announcements about other events which involve the student community. We conclude our Community Prayer and Assembly with the raising of the flags whilst singing our national anthem.
School closure days for 2020
The following days have been set aside for staff professional learning. As we are undergoing a Catholic Education School Review this year additional days are needed to address school improvement and compliance matters. I will outline the review process at a later date. Thank you for your support. Wednesday 17 June, Thursday 23 July, Thursday 15 October, Friday 16 October, Monday 2 November (day before Cup Day) and Monday 30 November.
Parking and student safety reminders
Student safety is very important and the beginning of the year is a time to remind you all of the processes for morning drop off and afternoon pick up.
Morning
Kiss and Drop - each morning at 8.30am the Silk St entrance to bottom yard is opened for a ‘Kiss and Drop’ procedure. Cars enter in a single file and stay in single file and move towards the junior playground equipment. A teacher will be on duty adjacent to the play equipment. Students will be able to exit their car from this point only. No parking on bottom yard. Cars must exit via Dobson Avenue gates.
Afternoon
The bottom yard will be opened at 3.15pm. Cars must enter through the Silk Street gate and exit through Dobson Avenue gate. Parents may park in the yard from this time onwards. Children are to be collected by parents from a designated safe point within the school yard. Children will be under the supervision of the teacher on yard duty. Playgrounds are out of bounds before and after school. Do not wait in your car or call children through the traffic. To avoid traffic congestion it is suggested that where possible, cars are parked away from the school and children walk the remaining distance. Walking promotes physical activity, independence and responsibility in children.
Silk Street Pick-up/Drop-off Zone
This zone is designed for quick movement of cars and is a council enforced standing time of 2 minutes - no parking is permitted. Normal parking restrictions and council signs should be observed when the flags are displayed on the School Crossing. Note that cars may only turn left out of Silk Street and NO cars should attempt to make a U turn and hold up the flow of traffic along the drop-off area. Parents are welcome to use the community centre car park located on the corner of Silk Street and Lower Plenty Road when there is a space available.
Mercy Building car park
Parents are asked not to park in this area for the safety of students. There may be times when community events are happening that it may be open and we will advise this through compass.
Thank you for your support.
School Counsellor
Throughout this term we will be reviewing our school counsellor program. Feedback will be sought from families and staff. During this time all matters related to Student Wellbeing should be directed to your child’s classroom teacher, Jamie Atherton (Student Wellbeing Leader) or Jacqui Marshall (Principal).
Upcoming events
Monday 10 Feb Community Prayer and Assembly - 8:50am
Band Program Information and Recruitment Night - 7pm
Tuesday 11 Feb Confirmation Information Night - 7pm
Wednesday 12 Feb Prep 2020 Information Night - 7pm
PFA Meeting - 7:45pm
Saturday 15 Feb Confirmation commitment mass - 6pm
Sunday 16 Feb Confirmation commitment mass - 10am
Monday 17 Feb Community Prayer and Assembly - 8:50am
Tuesday 25 Feb Shrove Tuesday Picnic - 5pm
2021 Prep Enrolments are NOW OPEN
It is that time again where we ask existing families to drop into the school office to register, collect and complete an enrolment form for their child. It would be appreciated if families could do so as soon as possible so that we can make some projections of how many places we are able to offer new families. Parents are welcome to spread the word to potential new families that our enrolments are now being taken for 2021.
2020 Open Days - Please let your friends know.
School tours will be conducted at 9.30am on each of the following days. Tours will be approximately 30–45 minutes and will be conducted by staff and Year 6 students.
● Tuesday, 3rd March
● Thursday, 12th March
● Sunday 15th March
● Tuesday, 17th March
● Tuesday, 5th May
Prep 2021 Enrolment Information Evening – Thursday 19th March, 7pm.
Families are welcome to contact the school office to arrange a personal tour on other days.
This term we excitedly prepare for the St Martin's Carnival on 26 March. I have been so impressed by how much has already been achieved by the committee and know they are looking for volunteers to support. Your generosity of time is much appreciated.
I will introduce our student school leaders to you in our next newsletter.
Congratulations to Jess McGrath and her husband Johnny on the safe arrival of their beautiful daughter Rosie Merle. We look forward to meeting Rosie when Jess pops in for a visit.
Thank you for the warm words of welcome and I look forward to walking alongside you all to ensure your children meet their potential. St Martins is a wonderful place to be.
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
Welcome Prep Students and Families
PREP 2020 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
PREP PARENTS INFORMATION EVENING
An information evening for Prep Parents will be held on Wednesday 12 February at 7pm in your child's classroom.
Compass login details have been sent to our new families. Please contact th school office if you have not received your details or if you have any queries.
PREP 2020 SCHOOL DAYS AND TIMES
Monday 10th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Tuesday 11th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Wednesday 12th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students
Thursday 13th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Friday 14th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Monday 17th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Tuesday 18th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Wednesday 19th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students
Thursday 20th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Friday 21st February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Monday 24th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Tuesday 25th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Wednesday 26th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students
Thursday 27th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Friday 28st February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
During the month of February Prep students do not attend classes on Wednesdays as Prep teachers conduct Prep student assessments.
Monday 2nd March - Prep students commence FULL school week days.
PREP 2020 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
PREP PARENTS INFORMATION EVENING
An information evening for Prep Parents will be held on Wednesday 12 February at 7pm in your child's classroom.
Compass login details have been sent to our new families. Please contact th school office if you have not received your details or if you have any queries.
PREP 2020 SCHOOL DAYS AND TIMES
Monday 10th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Tuesday 11th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Wednesday 12th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students
Thursday 13th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Friday 14th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Monday 17th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Tuesday 18th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Wednesday 19th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students
Thursday 20th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Friday 21st February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Monday 24th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Tuesday 25th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Wednesday 26th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students
Thursday 27th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Friday 28st February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
During the month of February Prep students do not attend classes on Wednesdays as Prep teachers conduct Prep student assessments.
Monday 2nd March - Prep students commence FULL school week days.
Religious Education Dates
Religious Education Dates
February
★ 11th - Confirmation Information Evening at 7pm
★ 15th - Confirmation Commitment Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 16th - Confirmation Commitment Mass at 10am
★ 25th - Shrove Tuesday
★ 26th - Ash Wednesday Mass at 9.15am
★ 29th - Prep Welcome Mass at 6pm
March
★ 13th - St Patrick’s Day Mass and Concert for Student Leaders (all day event)
★ 21st - Year 5 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ Easter Tableau (TBC)
★ 26th - Parish/School Carnival 3.30pm-8.30pm
April
★ 10th - Good Friday
★ 12th - Easter Sunday
★ 13th - Easter Monday (holiday)
★ 14th - ‘He is Risen’ Liturgy
★ 18th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 19th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 10am
★ 27th - ANZAC Assembly
May
★ 2nd - Confirmation Masses at 11am or 1.30pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Information Evening at 7pm
★ 30th - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 31st - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 10am
June
★ 6th - Winter Appeal commences
★ 13th - Year 2 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 19th - Sacred Heart Mission Mass at 9.15am
★ 20th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 21st - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am
July
★ 16th - Eucharist Retreat Day (TBC)
★ 25th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am
August
★ 7th - Mary Mackillop Mass at 9.15am
★ 8th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 9th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am
★ 14th - Feast of the Assumption Mass at 9.15am
★ 15th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 16th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am
September
★ 1st - Reconciliation Information Evening at 7pm
★ 5th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 6pm
★ 6th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 10am
October
★ 13th - 3MT Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 17th - Year 1 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 20th - 3JC Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 27th - 3C Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
November
★ 11th - St Martin of Tours Feast Day Mass at 9.15am
December
★ 14th - Graduation Mass at 5pm
★ 15th - End of School Year Mass at 9.15am
Religious Education Dates
February
★ 11th - Confirmation Information Evening at 7pm
★ 15th - Confirmation Commitment Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 16th - Confirmation Commitment Mass at 10am
★ 25th - Shrove Tuesday
★ 26th - Ash Wednesday Mass at 9.15am
★ 29th - Prep Welcome Mass at 6pm
March
★ 13th - St Patrick’s Day Mass and Concert for Student Leaders (all day event)
★ 21st - Year 5 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ Easter Tableau (TBC)
★ 26th - Parish/School Carnival 3.30pm-8.30pm
April
★ 10th - Good Friday
★ 12th - Easter Sunday
★ 13th - Easter Monday (holiday)
★ 14th - ‘He is Risen’ Liturgy
★ 18th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 19th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 10am
★ 27th - ANZAC Assembly
May
★ 2nd - Confirmation Masses at 11am or 1.30pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Information Evening at 7pm
★ 30th - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 31st - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 10am
June
★ 6th - Winter Appeal commences
★ 13th - Year 2 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 19th - Sacred Heart Mission Mass at 9.15am
★ 20th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 21st - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am
July
★ 16th - Eucharist Retreat Day (TBC)
★ 25th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am
August
★ 7th - Mary Mackillop Mass at 9.15am
★ 8th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 9th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am
★ 14th - Feast of the Assumption Mass at 9.15am
★ 15th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 16th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am
September
★ 1st - Reconciliation Information Evening at 7pm
★ 5th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 6pm
★ 6th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 10am
October
★ 13th - 3MT Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 17th - Year 1 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 20th - 3JC Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 27th - 3C Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
November
★ 11th - St Martin of Tours Feast Day Mass at 9.15am
December
★ 14th - Graduation Mass at 5pm
★ 15th - End of School Year Mass at 9.15am
Parent Information
PARENT INFORMATION 2020
Welcome to the 2020 school year. We have included some general information that we hope will assist parents throughout the school year. Specific information relating to your child’s year level and class shall be provided by your child’s classroom teacher.
Starting Time
Students are expected to be at school by 8.40am and in the classroom by 8:45am. Punctuality is important as we start meditation at 8:50am on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. On Monday mornings we hold a Community Prayer and Assembly on Top Yard.
If you are late to school, please take your child to the office and sign them in via Compass. Teachers take the roll at 9:00am. Students that arrive after 9:00am will be recorded as late. The overall number of absences and late attendance will be recorded on each student’s report at the end of each semester.
Bell Times:
8:30am Gates Open
8:40am Students begin to enter the classroom with their belongings when the music plays.
8:45am Students begin morning routine and meditation
9:00am Classes begin
11:00am Eating time
11:10am First Break
11:50am Classes resume
1:50pm Eating time
2:00pm Second Break
2:40pm Classes resume
3:30pm End of school day
School Pick Ups (Year 1-6 Students)
Please ensure you have arranged a safe pick up point with your child and throughout the year you advise your child of any changes in the usual routine for pick up. Students can leave the school grounds via the Top Yard gate around the back of the Mercy building and via the pedestrian gate at Dobson Avenue. Students can also be collected by an adult and must be escorted down the stairs to the car park. NO student is to enter the carpark without an adult. Primary age children do not have enough car awareness to walk through the car park safely.
If your child is to attend OSHClub (After School Care), it is their responsibility to know which nights they go. Please ensure you are registered with OSHClub as students who are not picked up at the end of the school day will be sent to OSHClub.
School Pick Ups (Prep Students)
At the end of the school day Prep students can be picked up from their dots.
Seesaw Digital Portfolio
This year teachers will continue the use of a digital portfolio in place of the Learning Journals. It is an opportunity for parents to gain greater insight into learning at St. Martin’s. More information will be sent out regarding Seesaw digital portfolios from your child’s classroom teacher.
Home Practice/Learning Requirements
An expectation of all St. Martin’s students is that they read for at least 20 minutes every night. Classroom teachers will advise parents of specific Home Practice/Learning Requirements for each year level.
Specialist Timetable
Your classroom teacher will avise you of the days your child has Library, LOTE, STEM, Art, Music and Sport.
Brain Food
We encourage healthy eating because of the benefits this has to both our mind and body. We ask that students bring a labelled small plastic container with diced or chopped up fruit or vegetables (Nude Food) that can be eaten as a snack during class time.
Communication
All our school communication is via Compass. Parents can email their child’s classroom teacher via Compass. Due to teaching and meeting commitments it may take up to three working days before a teacher is able to respond to emails. If your matter is urgent, please contact the school office.
Absences
Student absences must be placed on Compass as soon as possible. Failure to place an absence on Compass will result in parents receiving an SMS from the school office. As a courtesy, could you please provide your child’s classroom teacher with an email, so that they are able to monitor your child upon their return to school.
Early Leavers
If you need to pick your child up before 3:30pm, please enter this absence on Compass indicating the time of early release, late arrival or return to school. As a courtesy please send a short note with your child to give to the classroom teacher on the day. If possible avoid collecting your child during first and second break as students can be difficult to find on the yard.
Permission Forms
Permission forms for excursions are sent via Compass. Please check Compass regularly and ensure you approve excursions by the due date. Failure to approve an excursion may result in your child not being able to attend.
Medication
If students require medicine to be administered during school time, you will need to complete a Medical Request Form, (also available at the school office). Please clearly label all medicine as it is kept in the school office. Medication will be given by the office staff and must be returned to an adult.
Allergies
At St. Martin’s we strongly encourage 'no sharing of food' amongst students due to some students having allergies. We also ask parents not to send products containing nuts. Please advise the school office of changes to your child’s medical condition so that our school records are up to date.
Birthdays
If you wish to send a treat for your child’s birthday, please refrain from sending food, we ask you to consider those students that have food allergies. Instead please consider sending in small items, such as, balloons, bubbles, stickers, pencils etc.
School Visitors/Parent Volunteers
It is a legal requirement that all parent helpers and visitors assisting in any way in the classroom, sport days or on excursions MUST have a current Working With Children Check (WWCC). You will need to provide your WWCC number to the school office when signing in. Please ensure you check the expiry date of your card.
School Uniform, Hats and Bags
Full school uniform must be worn appropriately at all times, this includes wearing sports uniforms on sports days. If your child is out of uniform please provide your child’s teacher with a note explaining why. Please ensure you label ALL school uniform items. Hats are to be worn in Terms 1 and 4. No hat means No play. Sunscreen is strongly encouraged however it is your child’s responsibility to apply it within school hours.
We also encourage all students to carry their own school bag to and from school and to be responsible for packing and unpacking their own bags.
Canteen
The canteen is open on Thursdays and Fridays. Students are able to purchase icy poles during first and second break. Lunch order items are listed on the canten menu.
Office Items
If any money is to be sent to the school office, please ensure it is clearly labelled with your child’s name, class, the amount payable and what it is for and given to your child's classroom teacher.
We ask parents to advise the school of any changes to family/student information as they occur e.g. home address, emergency contacts, place of employment and occupation. These changes can be made by completing a Change of Information Form.
Personal Items
Students are not to bring mobile phones or electronic devices to school. Expensive and sentimental toys/items are also discouraged, as they could be easily damaged or lost. Please label any balls etc. with your child’s name. Lost property is located near the school office.
Please visit our school website for further information.
We wish families a smooth start to the 2020 school year.
PARENT INFORMATION 2020
Welcome to the 2020 school year. We have included some general information that we hope will assist parents throughout the school year. Specific information relating to your child’s year level and class shall be provided by your child’s classroom teacher.
Starting Time
Students are expected to be at school by 8.40am and in the classroom by 8:45am. Punctuality is important as we start meditation at 8:50am on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. On Monday mornings we hold a Community Prayer and Assembly on Top Yard.
If you are late to school, please take your child to the office and sign them in via Compass. Teachers take the roll at 9:00am. Students that arrive after 9:00am will be recorded as late. The overall number of absences and late attendance will be recorded on each student’s report at the end of each semester.
Bell Times:
8:30am Gates Open
8:40am Students begin to enter the classroom with their belongings when the music plays.
8:45am Students begin morning routine and meditation
9:00am Classes begin
11:00am Eating time
11:10am First Break
11:50am Classes resume
1:50pm Eating time
2:00pm Second Break
2:40pm Classes resume
3:30pm End of school day
School Pick Ups (Year 1-6 Students)
Please ensure you have arranged a safe pick up point with your child and throughout the year you advise your child of any changes in the usual routine for pick up. Students can leave the school grounds via the Top Yard gate around the back of the Mercy building and via the pedestrian gate at Dobson Avenue. Students can also be collected by an adult and must be escorted down the stairs to the car park. NO student is to enter the carpark without an adult. Primary age children do not have enough car awareness to walk through the car park safely.
If your child is to attend OSHClub (After School Care), it is their responsibility to know which nights they go. Please ensure you are registered with OSHClub as students who are not picked up at the end of the school day will be sent to OSHClub.
School Pick Ups (Prep Students)
At the end of the school day Prep students can be picked up from their dots.
Seesaw Digital Portfolio
This year teachers will continue the use of a digital portfolio in place of the Learning Journals. It is an opportunity for parents to gain greater insight into learning at St. Martin’s. More information will be sent out regarding Seesaw digital portfolios from your child’s classroom teacher.
Home Practice/Learning Requirements
An expectation of all St. Martin’s students is that they read for at least 20 minutes every night. Classroom teachers will advise parents of specific Home Practice/Learning Requirements for each year level.
Specialist Timetable
Your classroom teacher will avise you of the days your child has Library, LOTE, STEM, Art, Music and Sport.
Brain Food
We encourage healthy eating because of the benefits this has to both our mind and body. We ask that students bring a labelled small plastic container with diced or chopped up fruit or vegetables (Nude Food) that can be eaten as a snack during class time.
Communication
All our school communication is via Compass. Parents can email their child’s classroom teacher via Compass. Due to teaching and meeting commitments it may take up to three working days before a teacher is able to respond to emails. If your matter is urgent, please contact the school office.
Absences
Student absences must be placed on Compass as soon as possible. Failure to place an absence on Compass will result in parents receiving an SMS from the school office. As a courtesy, could you please provide your child’s classroom teacher with an email, so that they are able to monitor your child upon their return to school.
Early Leavers
If you need to pick your child up before 3:30pm, please enter this absence on Compass indicating the time of early release, late arrival or return to school. As a courtesy please send a short note with your child to give to the classroom teacher on the day. If possible avoid collecting your child during first and second break as students can be difficult to find on the yard.
Permission Forms
Permission forms for excursions are sent via Compass. Please check Compass regularly and ensure you approve excursions by the due date. Failure to approve an excursion may result in your child not being able to attend.
Medication
If students require medicine to be administered during school time, you will need to complete a Medical Request Form, (also available at the school office). Please clearly label all medicine as it is kept in the school office. Medication will be given by the office staff and must be returned to an adult.
Allergies
At St. Martin’s we strongly encourage 'no sharing of food' amongst students due to some students having allergies. We also ask parents not to send products containing nuts. Please advise the school office of changes to your child’s medical condition so that our school records are up to date.
Birthdays
If you wish to send a treat for your child’s birthday, please refrain from sending food, we ask you to consider those students that have food allergies. Instead please consider sending in small items, such as, balloons, bubbles, stickers, pencils etc.
School Visitors/Parent Volunteers
It is a legal requirement that all parent helpers and visitors assisting in any way in the classroom, sport days or on excursions MUST have a current Working With Children Check (WWCC). You will need to provide your WWCC number to the school office when signing in. Please ensure you check the expiry date of your card.
School Uniform, Hats and Bags
Full school uniform must be worn appropriately at all times, this includes wearing sports uniforms on sports days. If your child is out of uniform please provide your child’s teacher with a note explaining why. Please ensure you label ALL school uniform items. Hats are to be worn in Terms 1 and 4. No hat means No play. Sunscreen is strongly encouraged however it is your child’s responsibility to apply it within school hours.
We also encourage all students to carry their own school bag to and from school and to be responsible for packing and unpacking their own bags.
Canteen
The canteen is open on Thursdays and Fridays. Students are able to purchase icy poles during first and second break. Lunch order items are listed on the canten menu.
Office Items
If any money is to be sent to the school office, please ensure it is clearly labelled with your child’s name, class, the amount payable and what it is for and given to your child's classroom teacher.
We ask parents to advise the school of any changes to family/student information as they occur e.g. home address, emergency contacts, place of employment and occupation. These changes can be made by completing a Change of Information Form.
Personal Items
Students are not to bring mobile phones or electronic devices to school. Expensive and sentimental toys/items are also discouraged, as they could be easily damaged or lost. Please label any balls etc. with your child’s name. Lost property is located near the school office.
Please visit our school website for further information.
We wish families a smooth start to the 2020 school year.
Religious Education News
Confirmation Information Evening
Next Tuesday evening the Year 6 parents are invited to gather together to listen to Fr Elio Capra speak about Confirmation as a sacrament in today’s world. The Year 6 students, along with the Catechist children, will also attend the evening to work with their teachers on developing their understanding of the Sacrament.
Confirmation Commitment Mass
We invite our school families to pray with our Year 6 students as they begin their preparations for Confirmation. At the weekend Masses (15th/16th February), the Year 6 students will commit to their faith as they prepare to receive the final Sacrament of Initiation.
Confirmation Information Evening
Next Tuesday evening the Year 6 parents are invited to gather together to listen to Fr Elio Capra speak about Confirmation as a sacrament in today’s world. The Year 6 students, along with the Catechist children, will also attend the evening to work with their teachers on developing their understanding of the Sacrament.
Confirmation Commitment Mass
We invite our school families to pray with our Year 6 students as they begin their preparations for Confirmation. At the weekend Masses (15th/16th February), the Year 6 students will commit to their faith as they prepare to receive the final Sacrament of Initiation.
L.R.C News
Welcome back to school! It’s been great to see all of our students return to the library and enthusiastically start borrowing from our collection again this week.
We have some exciting things planned in the library space this year and we know 2020 is going to be a wonderful year for our students where they will continue to develop a lifelong love of reading.
Please CLICK HERE find our library timetable. We remind all families we are open every day from 8.30am, and we LOVE seeing families come in together and take some time out to read a book. We are also open until 3.45pm on Monday, Thursday and Friday afternoons.
Library Team for 2020
Monday: Chloe Jones
Tuesday: Emma Kent
Wednesday: Martine Klaic
Thursday: Chloe Jones
Friday: Emma Kent
Library technician: Wendy Roussety (Monday and Thursday)
Library assistant : Cristina Grande
Story Dogs
We are beyond excited to share with you that we have two new library staff members at SMOT this year.
Please meet………
Ava and Charlie
Ava and Charlie are trained story dogs and they will be working with us in the library to listen to our students read. Please look out for correspondence regarding this program via Compass in the coming week. We hope to have the program beginning in late February.
Ava came for a little visit last Wednesday…….and judging by the response of everyone she met, she is going to be a very welcome member of the SMOT library team.
She definitely got the ok from our new Principal!
Welcome back to school! It’s been great to see all of our students return to the library and enthusiastically start borrowing from our collection again this week.
We have some exciting things planned in the library space this year and we know 2020 is going to be a wonderful year for our students where they will continue to develop a lifelong love of reading.
Please CLICK HERE find our library timetable. We remind all families we are open every day from 8.30am, and we LOVE seeing families come in together and take some time out to read a book. We are also open until 3.45pm on Monday, Thursday and Friday afternoons.
Library Team for 2020
Monday: Chloe Jones
Tuesday: Emma Kent
Wednesday: Martine Klaic
Thursday: Chloe Jones
Friday: Emma Kent
Library technician: Wendy Roussety (Monday and Thursday)
Library assistant : Cristina Grande
Story Dogs
We are beyond excited to share with you that we have two new library staff members at SMOT this year.
Please meet………
Ava and Charlie
Ava and Charlie are trained story dogs and they will be working with us in the library to listen to our students read. Please look out for correspondence regarding this program via Compass in the coming week. We hope to have the program beginning in late February.
Ava came for a little visit last Wednesday…….and judging by the response of everyone she met, she is going to be a very welcome member of the SMOT library team.
She definitely got the ok from our new Principal!
Band Program Info and Try-out Night
Band Program Information and Instrument Try-Out Evening - Mon 10th Feb 7pm GECCO
St Martin of Tours offers your child the opportunity to join the St Martin of Tours Catholic Primary School Band Program.
To find out about this amazing opportunity we would like to invite you to an information evening explaining our program and offering your children a chance to try out instruments and see which one might best suit them.
Instrumental tuition is available for the flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, and percussion.
Students who take up this opportunity will rehearse with the school band weekly on Thursday mornings at 8am. They will also attend a weekly instrumental tuition session. There is a cost involved that covers both tuition and band membership fees. The band will be given opportunities to participate in performances, workshops, festivals as well as visits with other school bands.
Please join us this Monday the 10th Feb at 7pm in the GECCO to find out all the information you need about this program.
Feel free to contact Elliott Westbury - our new band program coordinator and senior school music teacher on band@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au with any questions.
Band Program Information and Instrument Try-Out Evening - Mon 10th Feb 7pm GECCO
St Martin of Tours offers your child the opportunity to join the St Martin of Tours Catholic Primary School Band Program.
To find out about this amazing opportunity we would like to invite you to an information evening explaining our program and offering your children a chance to try out instruments and see which one might best suit them.
Instrumental tuition is available for the flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, and percussion.
Students who take up this opportunity will rehearse with the school band weekly on Thursday mornings at 8am. They will also attend a weekly instrumental tuition session. There is a cost involved that covers both tuition and band membership fees. The band will be given opportunities to participate in performances, workshops, festivals as well as visits with other school bands.
Please join us this Monday the 10th Feb at 7pm in the GECCO to find out all the information you need about this program.
Feel free to contact Elliott Westbury - our new band program coordinator and senior school music teacher on band@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au with any questions.
S.T.E.M
S.T.E.M Partnership with Rosanna library
Rosanna library - After School Activities
Craft Box - Every Monday - 4.00pm–5.00pm
Ages 5–12 Finished primary school for the day and looking for something to do?
Enjoy craft activities, puzzles, technology or games. Contact the branch for information, weekly focuses or themes.
Rosanna Library - LEGO Club
Every Tuesday 4.00pm–5.00pm
Ages 5–12 LEGO helps to build skills in construction and creativity. Imagination meets feats of engineering in this after school club.
Rosanna Library -Doggy Tales
Every Tuesday 4.00pm–5.00pm
Ages 5+ Doggy Tales program is an exciting way for children to practice their reading. It provides children with a non-judgmental, canine audience. No need to book. Just come along and meet our reading dog.
Rosanna Library -STEAM Club
Climbing Firemen Wednesday 19 February 4.00pm–5.00pm - Book Now
All Ages Join us for some wacky experiments, amazing arts and engineering feats as we explore all things STEAM each week.
Rosanna Library -Code Club:
Saturday 8 February 10.00am–11.00am
Scratch for Beginners -Ages 8+ Learn basic coding! Create games, animations and interactive stories with Scratch – a programming language for beginners. Book Now.
S.T.E.M Partnership with Rosanna library
Rosanna library - After School Activities
Craft Box - Every Monday - 4.00pm–5.00pm
Ages 5–12 Finished primary school for the day and looking for something to do?
Enjoy craft activities, puzzles, technology or games. Contact the branch for information, weekly focuses or themes.
Rosanna Library - LEGO Club
Every Tuesday 4.00pm–5.00pm
Ages 5–12 LEGO helps to build skills in construction and creativity. Imagination meets feats of engineering in this after school club.
Rosanna Library -Doggy Tales
Every Tuesday 4.00pm–5.00pm
Ages 5+ Doggy Tales program is an exciting way for children to practice their reading. It provides children with a non-judgmental, canine audience. No need to book. Just come along and meet our reading dog.
Rosanna Library -STEAM Club
Climbing Firemen Wednesday 19 February 4.00pm–5.00pm - Book Now
All Ages Join us for some wacky experiments, amazing arts and engineering feats as we explore all things STEAM each week.
Rosanna Library -Code Club:
Saturday 8 February 10.00am–11.00am
Scratch for Beginners -Ages 8+ Learn basic coding! Create games, animations and interactive stories with Scratch – a programming language for beginners. Book Now.
School Fees
SCHOOL FEES 2020
Families who are paying fees via instalments I have been issued statement of school fees this week.
If you wish to discuss your school fee payments I am in the office on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, alternatively you can email: marym@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Mary Milione
Bursar
SCHOOL FEES 2020
Families who are paying fees via instalments I have been issued statement of school fees this week.
If you wish to discuss your school fee payments I am in the office on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, alternatively you can email: marym@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Mary Milione
Bursar
Student Awards
WEEK 2
PGR Prep GR for being so smiley and happy settling in to school on their first week.
PPV Prep PV for a fabulous start to school life. Looking forward to a big year of fun and learning.
PVL All of Prep VL for having such a settled start to their school journey. Well done!!
1B To all of 1B for their amazing start to Year One!
1F Well done 1F for making a fantastic start to the year. You are all quickly learning to make good choices in and out of the classroom and being respectful people. Awesome!
1LB 1LB for having a fantastic start to Year One. They have settled in so well to their new routine and have a great attitude towards their learning!
2C
2OC All the wonderful students in 20C for being so kind and supportive of each other and settling in so well to Year 2!
2T All of 2T for having such a beautiful and settled start to Year Two.
3C All of 3C for a marvellous start to Year Three!
3JC Vivienne for settling in to your new school so well!
3MT For settling into the 2020 year so well. Great work 3MT.
4C To all the wonderful students in 4C for being kind, safe and fair in all that they do. Well done!
4T Emily H for being a fantastic listener in the classroom.
5C
5L Mietta for providing a very articulate induction into the daily operations of the school.
Gus M for his excellent attitude to his learning and willingness to ask for help when required.
5V Max for settling positively into his new classroom and school. We are so happy to have you as part of our team.
6AM Rochelle for her positive start to her grade 6 year. She has shown initiative and maturity in her attitude and is always willling and keen to share her work with the class.
6W Mia M has contirbuted her thoughts to Class discussions.
6ZW
WEEK 2
PGR Prep GR for being so smiley and happy settling in to school on their first week.
PPV Prep PV for a fabulous start to school life. Looking forward to a big year of fun and learning.
PVL All of Prep VL for having such a settled start to their school journey. Well done!!
1B To all of 1B for their amazing start to Year One!
1F Well done 1F for making a fantastic start to the year. You are all quickly learning to make good choices in and out of the classroom and being respectful people. Awesome!
1LB 1LB for having a fantastic start to Year One. They have settled in so well to their new routine and have a great attitude towards their learning!
2C
2OC All the wonderful students in 20C for being so kind and supportive of each other and settling in so well to Year 2!
2T All of 2T for having such a beautiful and settled start to Year Two.
3C All of 3C for a marvellous start to Year Three!
3JC Vivienne for settling in to your new school so well!
3MT For settling into the 2020 year so well. Great work 3MT.
4C To all the wonderful students in 4C for being kind, safe and fair in all that they do. Well done!
4T Emily H for being a fantastic listener in the classroom.
5C
5L Mietta for providing a very articulate induction into the daily operations of the school.
Gus M for his excellent attitude to his learning and willingness to ask for help when required.
5V Max for settling positively into his new classroom and school. We are so happy to have you as part of our team.
6AM Rochelle for her positive start to her grade 6 year. She has shown initiative and maturity in her attitude and is always willling and keen to share her work with the class.
6W Mia M has contirbuted her thoughts to Class discussions.
6ZW
St Martin's Parish and School Carnival News
THURSDAY 26TH MARCH 2020 3:30PM – 8:30PM
St. Martin of Tours is hosting an amazing parish/ school carnival as its major fundraiser, next month!
The Carnival is a celebration of our school, parish and community.
We are very excited for this occasion, which vows to be a fun afternoon / evening comprised of:
• Food trucks
• Bar
• Market stalls
• Entertainment
• Children’s rides
• Activities (Bubble Soccer, Petting Zoo)
• Silent Auctions / Raffles
We would love your support / involvement in the form of sponsorship, donations, or even assisting with running of the stalls / activities.
We are particularly looking for people who could coordinate:
• Cake Stall
• Games / Books Stall
• Chuck-a-choc stall
• Set up and Packing up of Eating Areas
This role would involve liasing with the committee, setting up on the day and organising a roster for someone to be present in your area at all times.
We are also looking for some volunteers with a current RSA to help out with the bar on a roster basis so no longer than an hour of your time would be greatly apreciated.
Wanted: talented face painters and / or hair sprayers who could volunteer their time on the evening of the carnival please.
If you are able to assist in any way, please email carnival@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Also,
• Mystery Bottles are back! Bottles will be sent home with each child on Tuesday. Instructions to follow.
• Collection of second hand children’s books and games (both in good quality) is ongoing. Collection tubs are outside the GECCO. House points will be received for each item.
• A couple of our wonderful Year 6 students are making hair accessories out of school dresses and boys and girls blue shirts, to sell at the carnival. If you have any of these items that are no longer required, please forward on to Declan L in 6AM via the office.
Be sure to follow us on our Facebook page 'St Martin of Tours Carnival' for updated info. Please feel free to invite family, friends and our wonderful community by sharing the page.
We would love to hear from you.
The Carnival Committee
carnival@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
THURSDAY 26TH MARCH 2020 3:30PM – 8:30PM
St. Martin of Tours is hosting an amazing parish/ school carnival as its major fundraiser, next month!
The Carnival is a celebration of our school, parish and community.
We are very excited for this occasion, which vows to be a fun afternoon / evening comprised of:
• Food trucks
• Bar
• Market stalls
• Entertainment
• Children’s rides
• Activities (Bubble Soccer, Petting Zoo)
• Silent Auctions / Raffles
We would love your support / involvement in the form of sponsorship, donations, or even assisting with running of the stalls / activities.
We are particularly looking for people who could coordinate:
• Cake Stall
• Games / Books Stall
• Chuck-a-choc stall
• Set up and Packing up of Eating Areas
This role would involve liasing with the committee, setting up on the day and organising a roster for someone to be present in your area at all times.
We are also looking for some volunteers with a current RSA to help out with the bar on a roster basis so no longer than an hour of your time would be greatly apreciated.
Wanted: talented face painters and / or hair sprayers who could volunteer their time on the evening of the carnival please.
If you are able to assist in any way, please email carnival@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Also,
• Mystery Bottles are back! Bottles will be sent home with each child on Tuesday. Instructions to follow.
• Collection of second hand children’s books and games (both in good quality) is ongoing. Collection tubs are outside the GECCO. House points will be received for each item.
• A couple of our wonderful Year 6 students are making hair accessories out of school dresses and boys and girls blue shirts, to sell at the carnival. If you have any of these items that are no longer required, please forward on to Declan L in 6AM via the office.
Be sure to follow us on our Facebook page 'St Martin of Tours Carnival' for updated info. Please feel free to invite family, friends and our wonderful community by sharing the page.
We would love to hear from you.
The Carnival Committee
carnival@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
PFA News
Firstly, we wish to welcome all our new Prep families to St Martin of Tours Primary School. The Parents and Friends Association (PFA) hosted 'Tea and Tissues' morning tea on Monday 3rd February and it was pleasing to see so many parents, grandparents and carers come for a cuppa and a chat in the GECCO. We hope all the Preppies are settling in well!
We also extend a very warm welcome to our new Principal Jacqui Marshall.
The first PFA Meeting for 2020 will be held next Wednesday 12th February at 7.45pm in the Seminar Room (new building). All parents and carers are welcome to attend our meetings and we encourage new members to join us this year. The PFA meeting on Wednesday will be following the Prep information evening, so if you are a new parent to the school and are interested in getting involved with the PFA, please come and say 'hi'.
If you'd still like to be involved with the PFA's activities but can't attend meetings, please visit our Helping Hands register to view and volunteer for upcoming events. Sign up as a volunteer at: https://signup.zone/smotpfa-volunteer
Our first event for the year is the traditional St Martin of Tours Shrove Tuesday Picnic on Tuesday 25th February at 5pm. Please save this date, it's a wonderful evening for families to catch up and meet new faces. More information on the Shrove Tuesday Picnic will be coming out next week.
A reminder you can also keep up to date with our PFA activities on our Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/SMOTPFA and our Website: http://smotpfa.weebly.com
Our Executive Committee for 2020 is:
Co-Presidents: Kate Kelly and Belinda Pryse; Secretary: Michelle Don Paul; Treasurer: Carla Ting.
We look forward to a wonderful 2020 school year.
Firstly, we wish to welcome all our new Prep families to St Martin of Tours Primary School. The Parents and Friends Association (PFA) hosted 'Tea and Tissues' morning tea on Monday 3rd February and it was pleasing to see so many parents, grandparents and carers come for a cuppa and a chat in the GECCO. We hope all the Preppies are settling in well!
We also extend a very warm welcome to our new Principal Jacqui Marshall.
The first PFA Meeting for 2020 will be held next Wednesday 12th February at 7.45pm in the Seminar Room (new building). All parents and carers are welcome to attend our meetings and we encourage new members to join us this year. The PFA meeting on Wednesday will be following the Prep information evening, so if you are a new parent to the school and are interested in getting involved with the PFA, please come and say 'hi'.
If you'd still like to be involved with the PFA's activities but can't attend meetings, please visit our Helping Hands register to view and volunteer for upcoming events. Sign up as a volunteer at: https://signup.zone/smotpfa-volunteer
Our first event for the year is the traditional St Martin of Tours Shrove Tuesday Picnic on Tuesday 25th February at 5pm. Please save this date, it's a wonderful evening for families to catch up and meet new faces. More information on the Shrove Tuesday Picnic will be coming out next week.
A reminder you can also keep up to date with our PFA activities on our Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/SMOTPFA and our Website: http://smotpfa.weebly.com
Our Executive Committee for 2020 is:
Co-Presidents: Kate Kelly and Belinda Pryse; Secretary: Michelle Don Paul; Treasurer: Carla Ting.
We look forward to a wonderful 2020 school year.
Messages, Reminders and Dates
Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information
PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWSFEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS
Tuesday 11th February Confirmation Information Evening 7pm GECCO
Wednesday 12th February Prep Parents Information Evening 7pm in your child's classroom
Saturday 15th February or Sunday 16th February Confirmation Commitment Mass
Tuesday 25th February Shrove Tuesday
Wednesday 26th February Ash Wednesday Whole School Mass 9.15am
Saturday 29th February Prep and Year 6 Buddy Family Welcome Mass 6pm
Thursday 5th March School Photo day Students to wear Summer Uniform
Monday 9th March Labour Day Public Holiday
Tuesday 10 or Wednesday 11 March Parent / Teacher / Student Learning Conversations Year 1 -6 Students ONLY
Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm
Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival
Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1
Term Dates 2020
Term 1: 29th January - 27th March
Term 2: 14th April - 26 June
Term 3: 13th July - 18th September
Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)
Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information
PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWSFEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS
Tuesday 11th February Confirmation Information Evening 7pm GECCO
Wednesday 12th February Prep Parents Information Evening 7pm in your child's classroom
Saturday 15th February or Sunday 16th February Confirmation Commitment Mass
Tuesday 25th February Shrove Tuesday
Wednesday 26th February Ash Wednesday Whole School Mass 9.15am
Saturday 29th February Prep and Year 6 Buddy Family Welcome Mass 6pm
Thursday 5th March School Photo day Students to wear Summer Uniform
Monday 9th March Labour Day Public Holiday
Tuesday 10 or Wednesday 11 March Parent / Teacher / Student Learning Conversations Year 1 -6 Students ONLY
Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm
Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival
Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1
Term Dates 2020
Term 1: 29th January - 27th March
Term 2: 14th April - 26 June
Term 3: 13th July - 18th September
Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)
OSHClub News
OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm.
Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au
OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm.
Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au
St Martin's Parish News
OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm ) 03 9458 4275
WEEKEND MASSES
Saturday Vigil: 6.00 pm
Dawn Mass: 7.30 am
Italian Mass: 8.30 am
Family Mass: 10.00 am
WEEKLY MASSES
Mon 9/2, Tues 10/2, Thurs 12/2, Fri 13/2- 9:15am Mass
Wed 11/2 Liturgy of the Word & Communion 9:15am
Saturday 8:30 am Mass. Reconciliation 10am
Vigil Mass 6pm Saturday
OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm ) 03 9458 4275
WEEKEND MASSES
Saturday Vigil: 6.00 pm
Dawn Mass: 7.30 am
Italian Mass: 8.30 am
Family Mass: 10.00 am
WEEKLY MASSES
Mon 9/2, Tues 10/2, Thurs 12/2, Fri 13/2- 9:15am Mass
Wed 11/2 Liturgy of the Word & Communion 9:15am
Saturday 8:30 am Mass. Reconciliation 10am
Vigil Mass 6pm Saturday
Welcome to the 2020 School Year
Welcome to the 2020 school year.
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you all. Firstly I would like to sincerely thank Fr Michael and the panel for appointing me as your principal and look forward to meeting all in the community.
I have been working in Catholic Education for 30 years having had a range of experiences as a teacher and leader. As an educational leader my focus is always on continuous improvement. I want to see learning environments that reflect personalised learning, developing creativity and curiosity. My aim is to ensure there is always a focus on engagement, achievement and wellbeing, where everyone’s voice is valued. I want to ensure a whole school vision that promotes trust, optimism, resilience and respect.
Family is very important to me and I am fortunate to be a mother to two adult boys, Jacob and Liam and wife to Gary. We enjoy travelling as a family with Hawaii being our happy place. I follow Richmond in the AFL and our gorgeous groodle is named Dusty after my favourite player.
My initial observations are that St Martin’s is a warm and vibrant community. I have felt so welcomed by the staff, students and parents this week. I took the opportunity to go around to all the classrooms today and share a little about myself with the students and they were just delightful. I feel blessed to have been given this opportunity and look forward to meeting everyone.
The staff is looking forward to a great year, ensuring every student meets their potential. Thank you for supporting the student assessments over the last few days. This allows teachers to have accurate starting points to ensure they can personalise the learning for all students. I feel confident that 2020 will be a great year, full of hope, celebration and new beginnings.
A Prayer for the New School Year
Blessed are you, Lord God.
As we begin this new school year,
we ask for your blessings on our community.
Open our minds as we learn more about one another,
grant us courage as we accept new challenges and help us to cherish and protect our environment.
Bless every family and open our hearts to the love of your Spirit.
Amen
Today’s newsletter is a short one, we will begin our fortnightly newsletters next week.
2020 Staffing Line Up
Principal: Jacqui Marshall
Deputy Principal: Marita Anderson
Literacy Leader / Coach (P-3) : Dinesha Rajasingam
Learning & Teaching, Literacy Leader / Coach (4-6) Martine Klaic
Learning & Teaching (P-3), Maths (P-3) Leader / Coach: Sandra Tieppo
Maths (4-6) Leader / Coach: Terry Zacharakis
Religious Education Leader: Marita Anderson
Learning Diversity Leader: Teresa Michelangeli
Student Wellbeing Leader: Jamie Atherton
Literacy Intervention 4-6: Carmel Chubb
Prep PV: Lisa Philp / Donna Vincent
Prep GR: Andrea Getson / Dinesha Rajasingam
Prep VL: Leslie van Loggerenberg
Year 1B: Laura Bumpstead
Year 1LB: Laura Butler
Year 1F: Claire Forbes
Year 2C: Michelle Cameron
Year 2OC: Emma O’Malley / Karen Crimmins
Year 2T: Melanie Thierjung
Year 3C: Melissa Campbell
Year 3JC: Kris Jordan / Joanne Collier
Year 3MT: Lilia Mosbauer / Sandra Tieppo
Year 4C: Tess Cosgrave
Year 4T: Adele Truefeldt
Year 5C: Aaron Connolly
Year 5L: Stephanie Laws
Year 5V: Neesha Valvo
Year 6AM: Jamie Atherton / Jo Maloney
Year 6W: Gareth Wells
Year 6ZW: Terry Zacharakis / David Witchell
ART: Lisa Cherubin / Emma Kent
STEM: Brendan Ooi
PE: David Witchell
LOTE: Maria Mandarano / Steve Domini
MUSIC: Elliott Westbury / Maryanne Kos
LIBRARY: Martine Klaic / Chloe Jones / Wendy Roussety / Emma Kent
Administration:
Wendy O’Keefe, Mary Milione, Karen Livingstone, Patsy Lynch, Veronica Castles.
Learning Support Officers:
Patsy Lynch, Ida Fruci, Gayle Carrazza, Jessica Casamento, Cristina Grande, Kate Sanford, Carmel Malignaggi, Tomasina Lagos, Niki Potenza.
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
Welcome to the 2020 school year.
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you all. Firstly I would like to sincerely thank Fr Michael and the panel for appointing me as your principal and look forward to meeting all in the community.
I have been working in Catholic Education for 30 years having had a range of experiences as a teacher and leader. As an educational leader my focus is always on continuous improvement. I want to see learning environments that reflect personalised learning, developing creativity and curiosity. My aim is to ensure there is always a focus on engagement, achievement and wellbeing, where everyone’s voice is valued. I want to ensure a whole school vision that promotes trust, optimism, resilience and respect.
Family is very important to me and I am fortunate to be a mother to two adult boys, Jacob and Liam and wife to Gary. We enjoy travelling as a family with Hawaii being our happy place. I follow Richmond in the AFL and our gorgeous groodle is named Dusty after my favourite player.
My initial observations are that St Martin’s is a warm and vibrant community. I have felt so welcomed by the staff, students and parents this week. I took the opportunity to go around to all the classrooms today and share a little about myself with the students and they were just delightful. I feel blessed to have been given this opportunity and look forward to meeting everyone.
The staff is looking forward to a great year, ensuring every student meets their potential. Thank you for supporting the student assessments over the last few days. This allows teachers to have accurate starting points to ensure they can personalise the learning for all students. I feel confident that 2020 will be a great year, full of hope, celebration and new beginnings.
A Prayer for the New School Year
Blessed are you, Lord God.
As we begin this new school year,
we ask for your blessings on our community.
Open our minds as we learn more about one another,
grant us courage as we accept new challenges and help us to cherish and protect our environment.
Bless every family and open our hearts to the love of your Spirit.
Amen
Today’s newsletter is a short one, we will begin our fortnightly newsletters next week.
2020 Staffing Line Up
Principal: Jacqui Marshall
Deputy Principal: Marita Anderson
Literacy Leader / Coach (P-3) : Dinesha Rajasingam
Learning & Teaching, Literacy Leader / Coach (4-6) Martine Klaic
Learning & Teaching (P-3), Maths (P-3) Leader / Coach: Sandra Tieppo
Maths (4-6) Leader / Coach: Terry Zacharakis
Religious Education Leader: Marita Anderson
Learning Diversity Leader: Teresa Michelangeli
Student Wellbeing Leader: Jamie Atherton
Literacy Intervention 4-6: Carmel Chubb
Prep PV: Lisa Philp / Donna Vincent
Prep GR: Andrea Getson / Dinesha Rajasingam
Prep VL: Leslie van Loggerenberg
Year 1B: Laura Bumpstead
Year 1LB: Laura Butler
Year 1F: Claire Forbes
Year 2C: Michelle Cameron
Year 2OC: Emma O’Malley / Karen Crimmins
Year 2T: Melanie Thierjung
Year 3C: Melissa Campbell
Year 3JC: Kris Jordan / Joanne Collier
Year 3MT: Lilia Mosbauer / Sandra Tieppo
Year 4C: Tess Cosgrave
Year 4T: Adele Truefeldt
Year 5C: Aaron Connolly
Year 5L: Stephanie Laws
Year 5V: Neesha Valvo
Year 6AM: Jamie Atherton / Jo Maloney
Year 6W: Gareth Wells
Year 6ZW: Terry Zacharakis / David Witchell
ART: Lisa Cherubin / Emma Kent
STEM: Brendan Ooi
PE: David Witchell
LOTE: Maria Mandarano / Steve Domini
MUSIC: Elliott Westbury / Maryanne Kos
LIBRARY: Martine Klaic / Chloe Jones / Wendy Roussety / Emma Kent
Administration:
Wendy O’Keefe, Mary Milione, Karen Livingstone, Patsy Lynch, Veronica Castles.
Learning Support Officers:
Patsy Lynch, Ida Fruci, Gayle Carrazza, Jessica Casamento, Cristina Grande, Kate Sanford, Carmel Malignaggi, Tomasina Lagos, Niki Potenza.
Jacqui Marshall
Principal
Prep 2020 News
PREP 2020 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Prep Parents 'Tea and Tissues' morning tea 8.45am - 9.30am
PREP PARENTS INFORMATION EVENING
An information evening for Prep Parents will be held on Wednesday 12 February at 7pm in your child's classroom.
PREP 2020 SCHOOL DAYS AND TIMES
Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Tuesday 4th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Wednesday 5th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students.
Thursday 6th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Friday 7th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Monday 10th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm, except for Wednesdays.
During the month of February Prep students do not attend classes on Wednesdays ie 5th February, 12th February, 19th February and 26th February, as Prep teachers conduct Prep student assessments.
Monday 2nd March - Prep students commence FULL school week days.
PREP 2020 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Prep Parents 'Tea and Tissues' morning tea 8.45am - 9.30am
PREP PARENTS INFORMATION EVENING
An information evening for Prep Parents will be held on Wednesday 12 February at 7pm in your child's classroom.
PREP 2020 SCHOOL DAYS AND TIMES
Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Tuesday 4th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Wednesday 5th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students.
Thursday 6th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Friday 7th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Monday 10th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm, except for Wednesdays.
During the month of February Prep students do not attend classes on Wednesdays ie 5th February, 12th February, 19th February and 26th February, as Prep teachers conduct Prep student assessments.
Monday 2nd March - Prep students commence FULL school week days.
Messages, Reminders and Dates
Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information
PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWSFEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS
Friday 31st January Years 1-6 students commence formal classes
Monday 3rd February Prep students start school on 8.45am-1.00pm (half days only this week). Please click here for further information regarding Prep 2020 students
Prep Parents 'Tea and Tissues' Morning Tea 8.45am - 9.30am GECCO
Tuesday 11th February Confirmation Information Evening 7pm GECCO
Wednesday 12th February Prep Parents Information Evening 7pm in your child's classroom
Saturday 15th February or Sunday 16th February Confirmation Commitment Mass
Tuesday 25th February Shrove Tuesday
Wednesday 26th February Ash Wednesday Whole School Mass 9.15am
Saturday 29th February Prep and Year 6 Buddy Family Welcome Mass 6pm
Thursday 5th March School Photo day Students to wear Summer Uniform
Monday 9th March Labour Day Public Holiday
Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm
Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival
Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1
Term Dates 2020
Term 1: 29th January - 27th March
Term 2: 14th April - 26 June
Term 3: 13th July - 18th September
Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)
Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information
PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWSFEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS
Friday 31st January Years 1-6 students commence formal classes
Monday 3rd February Prep students start school on 8.45am-1.00pm (half days only this week). Please click here for further information regarding Prep 2020 students
Prep Parents 'Tea and Tissues' Morning Tea 8.45am - 9.30am GECCO
Tuesday 11th February Confirmation Information Evening 7pm GECCO
Wednesday 12th February Prep Parents Information Evening 7pm in your child's classroom
Saturday 15th February or Sunday 16th February Confirmation Commitment Mass
Tuesday 25th February Shrove Tuesday
Wednesday 26th February Ash Wednesday Whole School Mass 9.15am
Saturday 29th February Prep and Year 6 Buddy Family Welcome Mass 6pm
Thursday 5th March School Photo day Students to wear Summer Uniform
Monday 9th March Labour Day Public Holiday
Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm
Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival
Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1
Term Dates 2020
Term 1: 29th January - 27th March
Term 2: 14th April - 26 June
Term 3: 13th July - 18th September
Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)
A Final Note From Meg
Dear Parents and Carers,
It’s hard to believe that school has now finished for the 2019 school year!
At the end of the school year, I can’t help but look back at the year that was and I’m always surprised by what we’ve been able to achieve, but none more so than this year. 2019 has been a school year like I’ve never experienced before and never hope to again. But if there is any silver lining to our annus horribilis, it’s that when it was needed, more than it has ever been needed before, the community that is St Martin’s showed what it was truly made of. Everyone put the needs of the students above their own. Everyone worked together to support each other. Everyone took time to step back and remember what is truly important. I will forever be grateful and proud, that during such a difficult time, we all banded together as the great community that we truly are.
I’ve thought a lot about our school and my connection with it over the last few weeks. I’ve realised that my family has had a direct connection with the school continuously for the last 50 years! My (very much older!) brother Peter started prep in 1970 followed by my sister Sally a year later. When Sally was in Year 5, I started in prep and when I was in Year 6 my aunt, Rosemary Sandham, started teaching here. Rosie had many roles including a long stint as Religious Education Leader and Deputy Principal. My first year of teaching at St Martin’s was in 2012 which was Rosie’s last year of teaching before she retired. I was teaching in the current PPV and Rosie was in the current PGR. It was pretty awesome having my favourite auntie teaching in the room next door! I don’t think there would ever have been a family gathering in that time that our wonderful school wasn’t brought up in discussions. Even during all those years between my leaving primary school and starting teaching here, I was always kept up-to-date with who was teaching here and what was going on. I guess the ‘force is strong’ when it comes to St Martin’s!
STAFFING UPDATE
A lot has happened with regard to our staff since the last newsletter!
David Portelli, our wonderful year 6 teacher of many years, has decided it’s time for a new adventure and will be leaving us at the end of the year. Our loss is Ruyton Girls School’s gain. We will miss Dave but wish him all the best in his next teaching chapter.
Gareth Voigt, our amazing senior music teacher, band teacher and coordinator and instrumental teacher has also decided it’s time for a new adventure. Gareth and his new wife, Emily, will be moving to London in the new year. Everyone will miss Gareth but we know this is an adventure that he and Emily cannot pass up and we wish them both well as they start their expat life.
Excitingly for us, Stephanie Laws and Elliot Westbury will be joining the St Martin’s staff in 2020. Stephanie will be replacing Dave as a classroom teacher and Elliot will be replacing Gareth in his many roles. Students will have met Elliot last week and Stephanie’s class met her on Monday during change-over afternoon.
I’m not leaving St Martin’s but I am taking leave in 2020. 2019 has been a very big year, to say the least, and I’ve decided to take 2020 as a year to focus on completing my MBA (thanks to Dane, who convinced me to start it this year and then called me an idiot for listening to him!) and to give me some time just to breathe. I plan to be back refreshed and raring to go in 2021. Marita Anderson will continue as Deputy Principal and Religious Education Leader. Marita has been an outstanding support for me this year and I know she will offer both continuity and support for Jacqui next year. Brendan Ooi will also continue in his role as Digital Technology Leader next year. He has also taken up the challenge of his new role this year with much vigour and success and will continue to do so next year.
STAFF LINE UP FOR 2020
Our staff line up for 2020 is as follows:
Principal: Jacqui Marshall
Deputy Principal & REL: Marita Anderson
Prep Team:
PGR: Andrea Getson & Dinesha Rajasingam
PPV: Lisa Philp & Donna Vincent
PVL: Leslie Van Loggerenberg
Year 1 Team:
1B: Laura Bumpstead
1F: Claire Forbes
1LB: Laura Butler
Year 2 Team:
2C: Michelle Cameron
2OC: Emma O’Malley & Karen Crimmins
2T: Melanie Theirjung
Year 3 Team:
3C: Melissa Campbell
3JC: Kris Jordan & Jo Collier
3MT: Lilia Mosbauer & Sandra Tieppo
Year 4 Team:
4T: Adele Truefeldt
4TC: Tess Cosgrave
Year 5 Team:
5C: Aaron Connolly
5L: Stephanie Laws
5V: Neesha Valvo
Year 6 Team:
6AM: Jamie Atherton & Jo Maloney
6W: Gareth Wells
6ZW: Terry Zacharakis & David Witchell
Specialist Teachers:
Library: Chloe Jones, Emma Kent & Martine Klaic
PE: David Witchell
Italian: Maria Mandarano & Steve Domini
Music: Mary-Anne Kos & Elliot Westbury
STEM: Brendan Ooi
Art: Lisa Cherubin & Emma Kent
Literacy Intervention: Dinesha Rajasingam & Carmel Chubb
Maths Intervention: Sandra Tieppo
CLASS LISTS 2020
We have worked extremely hard on the class lists and whilst we know we can’t please everyone, we believe we have done our very best. Students have had an orientation session with their teacher for 2020. I know the teachers were excited about meeting their new students on Monday, I hope the students were too.
2020 STUDENT ASSESSMENT SESSIONS
Year 1 - 6 Assessment Sessions (students attend ONLY ONE 3 hour session)
● Wednesday, 29th January (either 9am-12noon or 12.30pm-3.30pm);
OR
● Thursday, 30th January (either 9am-12noon or 12.30pm-3.30pm)
Notification of your child’s session time has been placed on COMPASS, please provide consent to confirm your child's attendance.
2020 SCHOOL START DATES
● Years 1-6 students commence formal classes on Friday, 31st January
● Prep students start school on Monday, 3rd February 8.45am-1.00pm (half days only this week). Please click here for further information regarding Prep 2020 students.
BOOK LISTS 2020
Click here for items that students will require for next year, please note this information has also been placed on the Compass Newsfeed.
STUDENT REPORTS
Student reports were published on Compass last Friday. Thankfully this was a relatively smooth upload, although we have had one class receive their reports in two parts. Parents of students leaving the school will have until 20th December to ensure they have downloaded their child’s reports. I am uncertain when rollover will officially occur, but once it has, you will no longer have access to your child’s compass data. Please ensure you print your reports using a laptop or desktop computer.
CAROL’S NIGHT
Last Thursday we held our bi-annual Carol’s Night. Thanks to Mrs Mary-Anne Kos and Mr Gareth Voigt (our Music Teachers) along with Sandra Tieppo and classroom teachers for organising the night. It was a fun night that everyone enjoyed immensely.
GRADUATION MASS and GRADUATION DINNER
On Monday we said goodbye to our Year 6 students. It was a big day for the students as they celebrated their Graduation Mass in the morning with their families, had a rousing farewell on the top yard at 1pm and then partied the night away at the Graduation Dinner. Thanks to Marita Anderson for organising the Mass and Veronica Castles and the Year 6 Parent Reps for organising the dinner. I was not able to attend but I’ve heard a lot of comments from parents about how wonderful the night was.
END OF YEAR WHOLE SCHOOL MASS
Yesterday we celebrated our End of Year Mass. It’s always a special Mass where we get to celebrate the year that was and look to the future. During the Mass, our 2020 School Captains, Vice-Captains and RE Captains were announced.
2020 School Captains: Hannah W & Luca F
2020 Vice-Captains: Maya K & Zach A
2020 RE Captains: Lily A & Connor Mc
Congratulations to our new Captains.
Our House Captains, Band Captains and Choir Captain will be announced during the Beginning of Year Mass next year.
I hope over the festive season and during the long summer break that everyone has a chance to relax and recharge. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year.
And for the last time in 2019, "How fortunate are we to belong to such a great community!"
Take care,
Megan Williams
Acting Principal
Dear Parents and Carers,
It’s hard to believe that school has now finished for the 2019 school year!
At the end of the school year, I can’t help but look back at the year that was and I’m always surprised by what we’ve been able to achieve, but none more so than this year. 2019 has been a school year like I’ve never experienced before and never hope to again. But if there is any silver lining to our annus horribilis, it’s that when it was needed, more than it has ever been needed before, the community that is St Martin’s showed what it was truly made of. Everyone put the needs of the students above their own. Everyone worked together to support each other. Everyone took time to step back and remember what is truly important. I will forever be grateful and proud, that during such a difficult time, we all banded together as the great community that we truly are.
I’ve thought a lot about our school and my connection with it over the last few weeks. I’ve realised that my family has had a direct connection with the school continuously for the last 50 years! My (very much older!) brother Peter started prep in 1970 followed by my sister Sally a year later. When Sally was in Year 5, I started in prep and when I was in Year 6 my aunt, Rosemary Sandham, started teaching here. Rosie had many roles including a long stint as Religious Education Leader and Deputy Principal. My first year of teaching at St Martin’s was in 2012 which was Rosie’s last year of teaching before she retired. I was teaching in the current PPV and Rosie was in the current PGR. It was pretty awesome having my favourite auntie teaching in the room next door! I don’t think there would ever have been a family gathering in that time that our wonderful school wasn’t brought up in discussions. Even during all those years between my leaving primary school and starting teaching here, I was always kept up-to-date with who was teaching here and what was going on. I guess the ‘force is strong’ when it comes to St Martin’s!
STAFFING UPDATE
A lot has happened with regard to our staff since the last newsletter!
David Portelli, our wonderful year 6 teacher of many years, has decided it’s time for a new adventure and will be leaving us at the end of the year. Our loss is Ruyton Girls School’s gain. We will miss Dave but wish him all the best in his next teaching chapter.
Gareth Voigt, our amazing senior music teacher, band teacher and coordinator and instrumental teacher has also decided it’s time for a new adventure. Gareth and his new wife, Emily, will be moving to London in the new year. Everyone will miss Gareth but we know this is an adventure that he and Emily cannot pass up and we wish them both well as they start their expat life.
Excitingly for us, Stephanie Laws and Elliot Westbury will be joining the St Martin’s staff in 2020. Stephanie will be replacing Dave as a classroom teacher and Elliot will be replacing Gareth in his many roles. Students will have met Elliot last week and Stephanie’s class met her on Monday during change-over afternoon.
I’m not leaving St Martin’s but I am taking leave in 2020. 2019 has been a very big year, to say the least, and I’ve decided to take 2020 as a year to focus on completing my MBA (thanks to Dane, who convinced me to start it this year and then called me an idiot for listening to him!) and to give me some time just to breathe. I plan to be back refreshed and raring to go in 2021. Marita Anderson will continue as Deputy Principal and Religious Education Leader. Marita has been an outstanding support for me this year and I know she will offer both continuity and support for Jacqui next year. Brendan Ooi will also continue in his role as Digital Technology Leader next year. He has also taken up the challenge of his new role this year with much vigour and success and will continue to do so next year.
STAFF LINE UP FOR 2020
Our staff line up for 2020 is as follows:
Principal: Jacqui Marshall
Deputy Principal & REL: Marita Anderson
Prep Team:
PGR: Andrea Getson & Dinesha Rajasingam
PPV: Lisa Philp & Donna Vincent
PVL: Leslie Van Loggerenberg
Year 1 Team:
1B: Laura Bumpstead
1F: Claire Forbes
1LB: Laura Butler
Year 2 Team:
2C: Michelle Cameron
2OC: Emma O’Malley & Karen Crimmins
2T: Melanie Theirjung
Year 3 Team:
3C: Melissa Campbell
3JC: Kris Jordan & Jo Collier
3MT: Lilia Mosbauer & Sandra Tieppo
Year 4 Team:
4T: Adele Truefeldt
4TC: Tess Cosgrave
Year 5 Team:
5C: Aaron Connolly
5L: Stephanie Laws
5V: Neesha Valvo
Year 6 Team:
6AM: Jamie Atherton & Jo Maloney
6W: Gareth Wells
6ZW: Terry Zacharakis & David Witchell
Specialist Teachers:
Library: Chloe Jones, Emma Kent & Martine Klaic
PE: David Witchell
Italian: Maria Mandarano & Steve Domini
Music: Mary-Anne Kos & Elliot Westbury
STEM: Brendan Ooi
Art: Lisa Cherubin & Emma Kent
Literacy Intervention: Dinesha Rajasingam & Carmel Chubb
Maths Intervention: Sandra Tieppo
CLASS LISTS 2020
We have worked extremely hard on the class lists and whilst we know we can’t please everyone, we believe we have done our very best. Students have had an orientation session with their teacher for 2020. I know the teachers were excited about meeting their new students on Monday, I hope the students were too.
2020 STUDENT ASSESSMENT SESSIONS
Year 1 - 6 Assessment Sessions (students attend ONLY ONE 3 hour session)
● Wednesday, 29th January (either 9am-12noon or 12.30pm-3.30pm);
OR
● Thursday, 30th January (either 9am-12noon or 12.30pm-3.30pm)
Notification of your child’s session time has been placed on COMPASS, please provide consent to confirm your child's attendance.
2020 SCHOOL START DATES
● Years 1-6 students commence formal classes on Friday, 31st January
● Prep students start school on Monday, 3rd February 8.45am-1.00pm (half days only this week). Please click here for further information regarding Prep 2020 students.
BOOK LISTS 2020
Click here for items that students will require for next year, please note this information has also been placed on the Compass Newsfeed.
STUDENT REPORTS
Student reports were published on Compass last Friday. Thankfully this was a relatively smooth upload, although we have had one class receive their reports in two parts. Parents of students leaving the school will have until 20th December to ensure they have downloaded their child’s reports. I am uncertain when rollover will officially occur, but once it has, you will no longer have access to your child’s compass data. Please ensure you print your reports using a laptop or desktop computer.
CAROL’S NIGHT
Last Thursday we held our bi-annual Carol’s Night. Thanks to Mrs Mary-Anne Kos and Mr Gareth Voigt (our Music Teachers) along with Sandra Tieppo and classroom teachers for organising the night. It was a fun night that everyone enjoyed immensely.
GRADUATION MASS and GRADUATION DINNER
On Monday we said goodbye to our Year 6 students. It was a big day for the students as they celebrated their Graduation Mass in the morning with their families, had a rousing farewell on the top yard at 1pm and then partied the night away at the Graduation Dinner. Thanks to Marita Anderson for organising the Mass and Veronica Castles and the Year 6 Parent Reps for organising the dinner. I was not able to attend but I’ve heard a lot of comments from parents about how wonderful the night was.
END OF YEAR WHOLE SCHOOL MASS
Yesterday we celebrated our End of Year Mass. It’s always a special Mass where we get to celebrate the year that was and look to the future. During the Mass, our 2020 School Captains, Vice-Captains and RE Captains were announced.
2020 School Captains: Hannah W & Luca F
2020 Vice-Captains: Maya K & Zach A
2020 RE Captains: Lily A & Connor Mc
Congratulations to our new Captains.
Our House Captains, Band Captains and Choir Captain will be announced during the Beginning of Year Mass next year.
I hope over the festive season and during the long summer break that everyone has a chance to relax and recharge. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year.
And for the last time in 2019, "How fortunate are we to belong to such a great community!"
Take care,
Megan Williams
Acting Principal
Advent Week
Advent has two parts. The first portion the First Sunday of Advent until 16th December is preparation for the second coming of Christ. The second portion from 17th to 24th December directly prepares us for the commemoration of the first coming of Christ, Christmas.
On the third Sunday of Advent, called Gaudete Sunday, we light the rose-colored candle, and Fr Michael will preach about joy and blessings. This is a time for us to pray and reflect on the things for which we are grateful. On Sunday, all three purple candles along with the pink candle will be lit.
On Christmas Day all five candles are lit. We light the white candle as a celebration of Jesus’ birth.
Advent has two parts. The first portion the First Sunday of Advent until 16th December is preparation for the second coming of Christ. The second portion from 17th to 24th December directly prepares us for the commemoration of the first coming of Christ, Christmas.
On the third Sunday of Advent, called Gaudete Sunday, we light the rose-colored candle, and Fr Michael will preach about joy and blessings. This is a time for us to pray and reflect on the things for which we are grateful. On Sunday, all three purple candles along with the pink candle will be lit.
On Christmas Day all five candles are lit. We light the white candle as a celebration of Jesus’ birth.
Year 2 Excursion
Year 2 students go to LegoLand
Thursday 5th December was a day to remember in Year 2! We went to LegoLand in Chadstone. We visited as a part of our Forces unit in Inquiry to explore how you can use Lego to create moving objects. We went on rides, participated in a 4D cinema, raced lego cars and had some workshops to learn how gears work. Seeing forces in real life made us think about how they are all around us.
Thank you to all the staff and parents who helped us on the day. What a great ending to the year!
Claire Forbes
Year 2 Teacher
Year 2 students go to LegoLand
Thursday 5th December was a day to remember in Year 2! We went to LegoLand in Chadstone. We visited as a part of our Forces unit in Inquiry to explore how you can use Lego to create moving objects. We went on rides, participated in a 4D cinema, raced lego cars and had some workshops to learn how gears work. Seeing forces in real life made us think about how they are all around us.
Thank you to all the staff and parents who helped us on the day. What a great ending to the year!
Claire Forbes
Year 2 Teacher
Choir News
Congratulations and Thank You to the amazing Choir for their magnificent singing this year! We finished the year with 40 members which was fabulous. We have shared a year of lunch times of laughter, jokes, tears and hard work and it was beautiful to see the results of this in all performances.
They have shown dedication and maturity in attending all rehearsals, learning new songs and developing a spirit of service and giving, getting along with different age groups and using their beautiful gifts of singing to serve the people of the whole parish school community and in leading the congregation in many Masses throughout the year, special Feast Day celebrations and concerts.
It was a privilege for us to perform beautiful songs when the Archbishop Peter Comensoli came to bless the new Mercy Building. He commented on how wonderful the choir sounded, particularly the Taize chant “Bless the Lord My Soul”.
The Choir enjoyed singing Christmas Carols at the Rosanna Views Aged Care and spreading Christmas cheer with a spirit of giving for the residents who are our neighbors, even to those who were not able to come out of their beds. The students gave out little gifts of Christmas baubles and candy canes to the residents and the air was buzzing with joy.
We have had a wonderful year learning new songs and also exploring new repertoire such as “What a Wonderful World” and “Singing in the Rain”, ABBA songs, The Greatest Showman and other classics.
I thank the Choir, in particular the Choir Captain Gabriella (6AM), and senior students, for helping the younger choir members and for their encouragement, organization and enthusiasm.
I thank Gayle Carazza and parents Kim Yarwood and Meg Nicholls for all their support and supervision on our carols excursion.
Thank you to Thomas (6AM) for his gift of helping with church slides and music on lap top, Mr David Portelli for accompaniment on his guitar, and also to Ariel (6P) for enhancing Masses with her delightful Cello playing.
Thank you to Fr Michael, parishioners, and staff for your ongoing support of the important work the choir does in bringing untold blessings to the community.
We look forward to hearing the choir singing at the Year 6 Graduation Mass and End of Year Mass next week.
Enjoy a relaxing holiday ready for a new year of singing!
Rosanna Views Aged Care Choir and Band Carols
Archbishop Peter Comensoli Blessing of the Mercy Building
Congratulations and Thank You to the amazing Choir for their magnificent singing this year! We finished the year with 40 members which was fabulous. We have shared a year of lunch times of laughter, jokes, tears and hard work and it was beautiful to see the results of this in all performances.
They have shown dedication and maturity in attending all rehearsals, learning new songs and developing a spirit of service and giving, getting along with different age groups and using their beautiful gifts of singing to serve the people of the whole parish school community and in leading the congregation in many Masses throughout the year, special Feast Day celebrations and concerts.
It was a privilege for us to perform beautiful songs when the Archbishop Peter Comensoli came to bless the new Mercy Building. He commented on how wonderful the choir sounded, particularly the Taize chant “Bless the Lord My Soul”.
The Choir enjoyed singing Christmas Carols at the Rosanna Views Aged Care and spreading Christmas cheer with a spirit of giving for the residents who are our neighbors, even to those who were not able to come out of their beds. The students gave out little gifts of Christmas baubles and candy canes to the residents and the air was buzzing with joy.
We have had a wonderful year learning new songs and also exploring new repertoire such as “What a Wonderful World” and “Singing in the Rain”, ABBA songs, The Greatest Showman and other classics.
I thank the Choir, in particular the Choir Captain Gabriella (6AM), and senior students, for helping the younger choir members and for their encouragement, organization and enthusiasm.
I thank Gayle Carazza and parents Kim Yarwood and Meg Nicholls for all their support and supervision on our carols excursion.
Thank you to Thomas (6AM) for his gift of helping with church slides and music on lap top, Mr David Portelli for accompaniment on his guitar, and also to Ariel (6P) for enhancing Masses with her delightful Cello playing.
Thank you to Fr Michael, parishioners, and staff for your ongoing support of the important work the choir does in bringing untold blessings to the community.
We look forward to hearing the choir singing at the Year 6 Graduation Mass and End of Year Mass next week.
Enjoy a relaxing holiday ready for a new year of singing!
Rosanna Views Aged Care Choir and Band Carols
Archbishop Peter Comensoli Blessing of the Mercy Building
PFA News
The Parents and Friends Association would sincerely like to thank our fabulous St. Martin families for their support throughout the year. This support may have been in various ways such as contributing funds to fundraising activities including snow cones days, sausage sizzles, and donut day, or attending PFA events including the Shrove Tuesday Picnic, Mother’s and Father’s Night and Gala Ball. Thank you also to those that generously gave up their time to help with the Mother’s and Father’s Day stalls, Disco and Colour Fun Run. We appreciate your ongoing support and volunteering of your time to help provide these events for our children and families.
We would like to express a big thank you to the following people for their contributions during the year:
- Sam R & Lianna S for co-ordinating our Easter Raffle
- David H & Cam W for organising a wonderful night for our Father’s Night
- Ruth S & Lisa J for the fantastic service they provide our families with the second hand uniforms
- Meg & Marita for their ongoing support and guidance over the year
- Veronica, Patsy, Mary, and Karen for their assistance. We really do appreciate all the extra work you do to help behind the scenes with our fundraising activities
- Gary & Matt for their help setting up with the Stalls, Disco and Colour Run.
- Bianca & Anna for supporting our Parent Class Representatives throughout the year and hosting the Prep Welcome Dinner in November
- A big thank you to all our Parent Class Representatives as well, your hard work in keeping classes informed, organising year level social events and gifts is much appreciated
- Ambra, Mel and Dale for organising the Mother’s Social Night and the spectacular Gala Ball
- Michelle for being our Secretary and also being involved with just about every PFA event during the year
- Carla our wonderful Treasurer
- All of our current and outgoing PFA members during the year; Michelle, Carla, Bianca, Anna, Chris, Jamile, Ambra, Mel, Dale, Sally, Liz, Louise, Kate and Belinda
- Dane, who was always supportive and who’s vision for the school was to foster community, which we have tried to carry on
- Finally we would also like to thank the community of St. Martin of Tours. In the week following Dane’s death it was our hope to support the teachers who were phenomenal in supporting the children despite their grief. We were overwhelmed by the quantity of food that was prepared with love and delivered each morning to the GECCO. The quantity was so great that we were able to package it up for the staff to take home and feed their families. Underlying Dane’s vision for the school was the opportunity to foster community. That sense of a supportive community was truly evident that week.
The Colour Run was a highlight event of the year. It was an idea suggested by Dane in November last year. We received so much positive feedback about how much fun the kids (and parents) had, and we also raised over $7,000, which is an amazing result. This puts our fundraising total for the year at over $28,000!
Fundraising money this year was used to purchase Fountas and Pinnell literacy sets to support guided reading and new furniture for the Mercy building. Funds raised from the Colour Run will be used to purchase storage facilities and equipment for the Play Pods in the new year, we look forward to this addition to the playground in both the junior and senior play spaces.
We would love to see some new members join us in 2020, if you are interested in joining the PFA or being on our Happy Helpers list, please get in touch: pfa@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Wishing all families, staff and the St Martin of Tours community a very Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year.
Kate Kelly and Belinda Pryse
Co-Presidents
St Martin of Tours School Parents and Friends Association
The Parents and Friends Association would sincerely like to thank our fabulous St. Martin families for their support throughout the year. This support may have been in various ways such as contributing funds to fundraising activities including snow cones days, sausage sizzles, and donut day, or attending PFA events including the Shrove Tuesday Picnic, Mother’s and Father’s Night and Gala Ball. Thank you also to those that generously gave up their time to help with the Mother’s and Father’s Day stalls, Disco and Colour Fun Run. We appreciate your ongoing support and volunteering of your time to help provide these events for our children and families.
We would like to express a big thank you to the following people for their contributions during the year:
- Sam R & Lianna S for co-ordinating our Easter Raffle
- David H & Cam W for organising a wonderful night for our Father’s Night
- Ruth S & Lisa J for the fantastic service they provide our families with the second hand uniforms
- Meg & Marita for their ongoing support and guidance over the year
- Veronica, Patsy, Mary, and Karen for their assistance. We really do appreciate all the extra work you do to help behind the scenes with our fundraising activities
- Gary & Matt for their help setting up with the Stalls, Disco and Colour Run.
- Bianca & Anna for supporting our Parent Class Representatives throughout the year and hosting the Prep Welcome Dinner in November
- A big thank you to all our Parent Class Representatives as well, your hard work in keeping classes informed, organising year level social events and gifts is much appreciated
- Ambra, Mel and Dale for organising the Mother’s Social Night and the spectacular Gala Ball
- Michelle for being our Secretary and also being involved with just about every PFA event during the year
- Carla our wonderful Treasurer
- All of our current and outgoing PFA members during the year; Michelle, Carla, Bianca, Anna, Chris, Jamile, Ambra, Mel, Dale, Sally, Liz, Louise, Kate and Belinda
- Dane, who was always supportive and who’s vision for the school was to foster community, which we have tried to carry on
- Finally we would also like to thank the community of St. Martin of Tours. In the week following Dane’s death it was our hope to support the teachers who were phenomenal in supporting the children despite their grief. We were overwhelmed by the quantity of food that was prepared with love and delivered each morning to the GECCO. The quantity was so great that we were able to package it up for the staff to take home and feed their families. Underlying Dane’s vision for the school was the opportunity to foster community. That sense of a supportive community was truly evident that week.
The Colour Run was a highlight event of the year. It was an idea suggested by Dane in November last year. We received so much positive feedback about how much fun the kids (and parents) had, and we also raised over $7,000, which is an amazing result. This puts our fundraising total for the year at over $28,000!
Fundraising money this year was used to purchase Fountas and Pinnell literacy sets to support guided reading and new furniture for the Mercy building. Funds raised from the Colour Run will be used to purchase storage facilities and equipment for the Play Pods in the new year, we look forward to this addition to the playground in both the junior and senior play spaces.
We would love to see some new members join us in 2020, if you are interested in joining the PFA or being on our Happy Helpers list, please get in touch: pfa@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Wishing all families, staff and the St Martin of Tours community a very Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year.
Kate Kelly and Belinda Pryse
Co-Presidents
St Martin of Tours School Parents and Friends Association
Book Lists 2019
The items on the book list must be supplied by parents.
Please ensure each item is clearly named and ready for students to bring on the first day of school, Friday 31st January.
The items on the book list must be supplied by parents.
Please ensure each item is clearly named and ready for students to bring on the first day of school, Friday 31st January.
STEM
Rosanna Library partnership with St Martin's
Monday 2 December– Friday 31 January During Opening Hours
Banyule Storyline Treasure Hunt. Jump on the train during the summer holidays and discover our rooms full of stories! Visit Ivanhoe, Rosanna and Watsonia Libraries by train and join in the Treasure Hunt at each branch. Ages 7+ Ivanhoe, Rosanna and Watsonia Libraries
Rosanna Library Tuesday 7 January 6.00pm–7.00pm
House of Stories: The Bedroom Bring a stuffed animal friend to listen to bedtime stories and leave them to have a toy sleep over at the library. Collect them next day to hear all about their adventures.
Rosanna Library Friday 10 January 10.30am–11.30am BOOKINGS REQUIRED.
House of Stories: Floor Plan Create a floor plan then code the Spheros to zoom around it. Bookings essential. Ages 7+
Rosanna Library Monday 13 January 2.00pm–3.00pm
House of Stories: Lounge Room Make and decorate a lounge chair from a box and relax! Enjoy some stories from the Storybox Library – an online collection of fantastic books read aloud by celebrities. Parents can even find out how they can access Storybox for free from home! BYO cardboard box big enough to sit in.
Rosanna Library Wednesday 15 January 2.00pm–4.00pm BOOKING REQUIRED
House of Stories: The Second Bedroom Experience the wonder of dreamtime stories in 3D through the magic of VR and craft. Ages 7+
Rosanna Library Tuesday 21 January 2.00pm–4.00pm
NGV Kids on Tour 2020 Supported by the NGV Kids Summer Festival. NGV Kids on Tour is a National Gallery of Victoria initiative that offers children and families throughout regional and metropolitan Victoria the opportunity to engage with art through a range of free hands-on activities and workshops.
Each of our library branches has different activities from the NGV Kids on Tour including KAWS, Alexander Calder, art games and more.
Rosanna Library partnership with St Martin's
Monday 2 December– Friday 31 January During Opening Hours
Banyule Storyline Treasure Hunt. Jump on the train during the summer holidays and discover our rooms full of stories! Visit Ivanhoe, Rosanna and Watsonia Libraries by train and join in the Treasure Hunt at each branch. Ages 7+ Ivanhoe, Rosanna and Watsonia Libraries
Rosanna Library Tuesday 7 January 6.00pm–7.00pm
House of Stories: The Bedroom Bring a stuffed animal friend to listen to bedtime stories and leave them to have a toy sleep over at the library. Collect them next day to hear all about their adventures.
Rosanna Library Friday 10 January 10.30am–11.30am BOOKINGS REQUIRED.
House of Stories: Floor Plan Create a floor plan then code the Spheros to zoom around it. Bookings essential. Ages 7+
Rosanna Library Monday 13 January 2.00pm–3.00pm
House of Stories: Lounge Room Make and decorate a lounge chair from a box and relax! Enjoy some stories from the Storybox Library – an online collection of fantastic books read aloud by celebrities. Parents can even find out how they can access Storybox for free from home! BYO cardboard box big enough to sit in.
Rosanna Library Wednesday 15 January 2.00pm–4.00pm BOOKING REQUIRED
House of Stories: The Second Bedroom Experience the wonder of dreamtime stories in 3D through the magic of VR and craft. Ages 7+
Rosanna Library Tuesday 21 January 2.00pm–4.00pm
NGV Kids on Tour 2020 Supported by the NGV Kids Summer Festival. NGV Kids on Tour is a National Gallery of Victoria initiative that offers children and families throughout regional and metropolitan Victoria the opportunity to engage with art through a range of free hands-on activities and workshops.
Each of our library branches has different activities from the NGV Kids on Tour including KAWS, Alexander Calder, art games and more.
THANK YOU -Parish St Vincent De Paul Conference
A huge “Thank you” to all who have contributed to our St Vincent de Paul conference over the past year. Your response to the Winter Appeal and the current, wonderful generosity of the donations to the hampers are just so heart-warming.
We deliver toys and hampers to many families. Your gifts will be treasured by these people as most of those we visit do not have sufficient income to buy special food and Christmas presents. Be assured, we see many excited little faces when we make our deliveries and the parents really welcome the hampers. This brings home the true meaning of Christmas to us all.
Thank you for enabling this to occur and may the blessings of Christmas be with you all.
A huge “Thank you” to all who have contributed to our St Vincent de Paul conference over the past year. Your response to the Winter Appeal and the current, wonderful generosity of the donations to the hampers are just so heart-warming.
We deliver toys and hampers to many families. Your gifts will be treasured by these people as most of those we visit do not have sufficient income to buy special food and Christmas presents. Be assured, we see many excited little faces when we make our deliveries and the parents really welcome the hampers. This brings home the true meaning of Christmas to us all.
Thank you for enabling this to occur and may the blessings of Christmas be with you all.
Prep 2020 News
PREP 2020 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Prep parents Tea and Tissues morning 9am -10am
PREP 2020 SCHOOL DAYS AND TIMES
Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Tuesday 4th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Wednesday 5th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students.
Thursday 6th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Friday 7th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Monday 10th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm, except for Wednesdays.
During the month of February Prep students do not attend classes on Wednesdays ie 5th February, 12th February, 19th February and 26th February, as Prep teachers conduct Prep student assessments.
Monday 2nd March - Prep students commence FULL school week days.
PREP 2020 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Prep parents Tea and Tissues morning 9am -10am
PREP 2020 SCHOOL DAYS AND TIMES
Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Tuesday 4th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Wednesday 5th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students.
Thursday 6th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Friday 7th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Monday 10th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm, except for Wednesdays.
During the month of February Prep students do not attend classes on Wednesdays ie 5th February, 12th February, 19th February and 26th February, as Prep teachers conduct Prep student assessments.
Monday 2nd March - Prep students commence FULL school week days.
Messages, Reminders and Dates
Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information
PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWSFEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS
Year 1 - 6 Assessment Sessions (students attend ONLY ONE 3 hour session)
Notification of your child’s session time has been placed on COMPASS, please provide consent to confirm your child's attendance.
Wednesday 29th January (either 9am-12noon or 12.30pm-3.30pm);
OR
Thursday 30th January (either 9am-12noon or 12.30pm-3.30pm)
Friday 31st January Years 1-6 students commence formal classes
Monday 3rd February Prep students start school on 8.45am-1.00pm (half days only this week). Please click here for further information regarding Prep 2020 students
Prep Parents Tea and Tissues Morning 9am
Tuesday 11th February Confirmation Information Evening 7pm GECCO
Saturday 15th February or Sunday 16th February Confirmation Commitment Mass
Tuesday 25th February Shrove Tuesday
Wednesday 26th February Ash Wednesday Whole School Mass 9.15am
Saturday 29th February Prep and Year 6 Buddy Family Welcome Mass 6pm
Thursday 5th March School Photo day Students to wear Summer Uniform
Monday 9th March Labour Day Public Holiday
Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm
Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival
Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1
Term Dates 2020
Term 1: 29th January - 27th March
Term 2: 14th April - 26 June
Term 3: 13th July - 18th September
Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)
Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information
PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWSFEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS
Year 1 - 6 Assessment Sessions (students attend ONLY ONE 3 hour session)
Notification of your child’s session time has been placed on COMPASS, please provide consent to confirm your child's attendance.
Wednesday 29th January (either 9am-12noon or 12.30pm-3.30pm);
OR
Thursday 30th January (either 9am-12noon or 12.30pm-3.30pm)
Friday 31st January Years 1-6 students commence formal classes
Monday 3rd February Prep students start school on 8.45am-1.00pm (half days only this week). Please click here for further information regarding Prep 2020 students
Prep Parents Tea and Tissues Morning 9am
Tuesday 11th February Confirmation Information Evening 7pm GECCO
Saturday 15th February or Sunday 16th February Confirmation Commitment Mass
Tuesday 25th February Shrove Tuesday
Wednesday 26th February Ash Wednesday Whole School Mass 9.15am
Saturday 29th February Prep and Year 6 Buddy Family Welcome Mass 6pm
Thursday 5th March School Photo day Students to wear Summer Uniform
Monday 9th March Labour Day Public Holiday
Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm
Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival
Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1
Term Dates 2020
Term 1: 29th January - 27th March
Term 2: 14th April - 26 June
Term 3: 13th July - 18th September
Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)
Student Awards
WEEK 9
PGR Olivia for her fabulous attempts at writing all of the letters she can hear in her writing and for being a friendly classmate.
Braxton for always being so happy and enthusiastic in all of his learning at School and for always trying his best.
PPV Kayleigh for enthusiastically sharing her surfing and gymnastics news.
PVL Evan for making great progress with his high frequency words.
Jack for excellent progress with his reading this semester. Well done!!
1B Scarlett W for always showing an enthusiasm for learning and being a kind and respectful classmate.
1LB Rafferty for being a respectful and considerate student who is always eager to help others. Fantastic effort Rafferty!
1Mc Neve for making wonderful progress on her reading this year. She has worked hard to improve her decoding and comprehension and is reading aloud clearly and confidently. Well done Neve!
2C
2CB
2F
3JT
3MT Christie for being a wonderful and supportive team member. We have loved working with you and so have the students.
4C
4TC
4ZM Noah B Greatest students of 2019
5AO Mia for being creative in writing tasks and using up-levelled vocabulary. You have listened carefully to feedback from your teachers and applied it to your writing. Keep up the super work.
5CW
5T
6AM Meg - for the creative flair she brings to designing her Graduation crest. You are amazing!
6P To everyone in 6P - for finishing up your final year at SMOT so well!
WEEK 10
PGR Thomas for always trying his best to be the best learner that he can be. Super effort!
James for giving things a go when they are challenging and for being such a happy and friendly classmate.
PPV Henry for his positive attitude towards school work and work habits.
PVL Sofia for making great progress with her letter formation and sentence structure this semester. Well done!
Lucas for always 'having a go' with a smile on his face. Great attitude, Lucas!
1B All of 1B for an amazing year of fun and learning!
1LB 1LB for such an incredible year with the most amazing class! I am so proud of each and every one of you and the effort you all put in to your learning! It has been an absolute pleasure teaching you all. Best wishes for Year Two!!
1Mc Blake: for making great fantastic progress with his presentations and participation in class this year. He has learned how to respond to questions from classmates and has really grown in his confidence. Well done Blake!
2C
2CB To all the fantastic children in 2CB who have been so friendly, caring, sharing and supportive of each other throughout the year. It has made our role as teachers a delight to be part of your lives and to watch you grow and blossom into the beautiful children you are. Continue to work hard and achieve your goals and remain good friends throughout your school life.
2F 2F if I could write a book about how wonderful you have all been this year, I wouldn't stop writing. You have been a pleasure to teach and get to know this year. You are all unique and important. The respect you show others is admirable and your eagerness to learn more keeps growing. All the best for Year 3, you are all champions!
3JT
3MT 3MT for all your hard work with your learning this year. You should be proud of your achievements. Thank you for sharing your stories, the laughter and funny moments. All the best in Year 4.
4C
4TC
4ZM 4ZMV Class for a fantastic year!
5AO
5CW
5T
6AM Fleur and Lara - for their original and unique Inquiry Presentations on Solar Power. It was very entertaining!
6P
6W
WEEK 9
PGR Olivia for her fabulous attempts at writing all of the letters she can hear in her writing and for being a friendly classmate.
Braxton for always being so happy and enthusiastic in all of his learning at School and for always trying his best.
PPV Kayleigh for enthusiastically sharing her surfing and gymnastics news.
PVL Evan for making great progress with his high frequency words.
Jack for excellent progress with his reading this semester. Well done!!
1B Scarlett W for always showing an enthusiasm for learning and being a kind and respectful classmate.
1LB Rafferty for being a respectful and considerate student who is always eager to help others. Fantastic effort Rafferty!
1Mc Neve for making wonderful progress on her reading this year. She has worked hard to improve her decoding and comprehension and is reading aloud clearly and confidently. Well done Neve!
2C
2CB
2F
3JT
3MT Christie for being a wonderful and supportive team member. We have loved working with you and so have the students.
4C
4TC
4ZM Noah B Greatest students of 2019
5AO Mia for being creative in writing tasks and using up-levelled vocabulary. You have listened carefully to feedback from your teachers and applied it to your writing. Keep up the super work.
5CW
5T
6AM Meg - for the creative flair she brings to designing her Graduation crest. You are amazing!
6P To everyone in 6P - for finishing up your final year at SMOT so well!
WEEK 10
PGR Thomas for always trying his best to be the best learner that he can be. Super effort!
James for giving things a go when they are challenging and for being such a happy and friendly classmate.
PPV Henry for his positive attitude towards school work and work habits.
PVL Sofia for making great progress with her letter formation and sentence structure this semester. Well done!
Lucas for always 'having a go' with a smile on his face. Great attitude, Lucas!
1B All of 1B for an amazing year of fun and learning!
1LB 1LB for such an incredible year with the most amazing class! I am so proud of each and every one of you and the effort you all put in to your learning! It has been an absolute pleasure teaching you all. Best wishes for Year Two!!
1Mc Blake: for making great fantastic progress with his presentations and participation in class this year. He has learned how to respond to questions from classmates and has really grown in his confidence. Well done Blake!
2C
2CB To all the fantastic children in 2CB who have been so friendly, caring, sharing and supportive of each other throughout the year. It has made our role as teachers a delight to be part of your lives and to watch you grow and blossom into the beautiful children you are. Continue to work hard and achieve your goals and remain good friends throughout your school life.
2F 2F if I could write a book about how wonderful you have all been this year, I wouldn't stop writing. You have been a pleasure to teach and get to know this year. You are all unique and important. The respect you show others is admirable and your eagerness to learn more keeps growing. All the best for Year 3, you are all champions!
3JT
3MT 3MT for all your hard work with your learning this year. You should be proud of your achievements. Thank you for sharing your stories, the laughter and funny moments. All the best in Year 4.
4C
4TC
4ZM 4ZMV Class for a fantastic year!
5AO
5CW
5T
6AM Fleur and Lara - for their original and unique Inquiry Presentations on Solar Power. It was very entertaining!
6P
6W
OSHClub News
OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm.
Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au
Please read the newsletter for information regarding next year.
OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm.
Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au
Please read the newsletter for information regarding next year.
Parish News
Message regarding Church maintenance works
During January we will be starting on the work required to fix and paint the leaking turret on the church roof and also to sand back and paint the spire of our church. And while we have the scaffolding erected within the church to tackle these jobs we will also renew the lighting on the wagon wheel as well as the spotlight to highlight our crucifix and the table of the Lord. Due to this work, the celebration of the Eucharist will be in the GECCO (our parish school hall) on the weekends of the 18th 19th and 25th 26th January.
CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS MASS 2019
Rehearsal times below:
Thursday 19th Dec at 4pm
Monday 23rd Dec 10am
Tuesday 24th Dec at 10am.
For any queries contact the Parish office 9457 4275 or email Sr. Maria Bui: Maria.Bui@cam.org.au
CARITAS AUSTRALIA ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CARD CAMPAIGN
This year you can help bring the gift of Water, Food and Sustainable livelihoods to families fighting poverty around the world. Be and angel of hope to vulnerable families around the world: buy a Global Gift this Christmas. No matter what Global gift you choose, you will be the angel the most vulnerable people in the world need to walk with them and transform their lives Order Global Gift cards online at www.globalgifts.org.au or call us on 1800 024 413
Volunteer to help Asylum Seeker with formal English
A mature asylum seeker with functional oral English needs help with formal written and spoken English. Anyone able to help especially someone with formal English would be appreciated. For further information Robyn 9459 4843
Message regarding Church maintenance works
During January we will be starting on the work required to fix and paint the leaking turret on the church roof and also to sand back and paint the spire of our church. And while we have the scaffolding erected within the church to tackle these jobs we will also renew the lighting on the wagon wheel as well as the spotlight to highlight our crucifix and the table of the Lord. Due to this work, the celebration of the Eucharist will be in the GECCO (our parish school hall) on the weekends of the 18th 19th and 25th 26th January.
CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS MASS 2019
Rehearsal times below:
Thursday 19th Dec at 4pm
Monday 23rd Dec 10am
Tuesday 24th Dec at 10am.
For any queries contact the Parish office 9457 4275 or email Sr. Maria Bui: Maria.Bui@cam.org.au
CARITAS AUSTRALIA ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CARD CAMPAIGN
This year you can help bring the gift of Water, Food and Sustainable livelihoods to families fighting poverty around the world. Be and angel of hope to vulnerable families around the world: buy a Global Gift this Christmas. No matter what Global gift you choose, you will be the angel the most vulnerable people in the world need to walk with them and transform their lives Order Global Gift cards online at www.globalgifts.org.au or call us on 1800 024 413
Volunteer to help Asylum Seeker with formal English
A mature asylum seeker with functional oral English needs help with formal written and spoken English. Anyone able to help especially someone with formal English would be appreciated. For further information Robyn 9459 4843
A Note From Meg
Dear Parents and Carers,
As we head into the last few weeks of school it is wonderful to see the Year 6 students enjoying the last few days with some of their school mates and soaking up the last of their primary school days. In the coming weeks the Year 6s will enjoy their ‘Big Day Out’, Graduation Mass and Graduation Dinner.
LEADERSHIP SPEECHES
As one group of leaders prepare to move on from our school, the next cohort looks to step up and be the leaders for 2020. Last week the Year 5 students delivered speeches to their level and teachers to highlight the qualities they would bring to a school leadership position. The School Captains, Vice Captains and RE Captains will formally be announced at the whole school End of Year Mass at 9.15am on Tuesday, December 17th. House Captains, Band Captains and Choir Captains will be announced at our first school Mass on Tuesday 4th February.
STAFFING UPDATE
Last week we wished Jess McGrath, our wonderful Year 1 teacher, best wishes as she started maternity leave. I’m sure you all remember, as well as I do, how exciting it is awaiting the arrival of your first child. Last week also saw Gareth Voigt, our fabulous senior music and band teacher, marry his partner Emily. Along with this happy news, we will also be saying goodbye to a number of staff members this year.
STAFF WHO WILL BE LEAVING US THIS YEAR
Marie Boland
Marie first worked at St Martin’s as a young teacher prior to having her own children. She returned to St Martin’s in 1981 and for almost 40 years! Marie has been on long service leave since the end of Term 2 and has decided that as much as she loves teaching and being with the students, living a life of leisure over the last five months has been quite enjoyable and she has decided to retire. It will certainly feel like a different school without Mrs Boland here next year.
Elisabeth Viola
Elisabeth first started working at St Martin’s in 1996. In the 23 years that she has worked here, Lis has taught multiple year levels and has most recently been our Italian teacher. She isn’t retiring but is interested in travelling and exploring other options.
Eda Conte
Signora first started teaching at St Martin’s in 2001. During her time here she has been both an Italian teacher and classroom teacher. Eda has been on leave this year and, like Marie, has decided to continue living the good life away from the pressures of work!
Heather Hobbs
Heather first started teaching at St Martin’s in 2004 as our Music Teacher. Heather has always been passionate about literacy and trained as a Reading Recovery Teacher and Teacher Intervention, a role that she loved. Heather has taken leave this year. During this time Heather has established a tutoring business named Expert Reading Tuition (http://www.expertreadingtuition.com.au/). Heather has decided to continue to focus on her tutoring business and will not be returning to St Martin’s.
I know I speak for everyone when I wish them all the best in their next adventures. However my experience is that St Martin’s is one of those places that’s a bit like the Hotel California, you may be able to check out, but you can’t ever really leave! So while we’re sad that our four fabulous teachers have decided to seek greener pastures, I know that they’ll be seen around our school again, even if it’s just to pop in and have a chat. We hope that Marie, Lis, Eda and Heather will be able to join us during our end of year whole school Mass.
AN ARTIST AMONGST US
At our Community Prayer Service on Monday, Tarah from Year 4 was selected as a finalist in the 2019 Young Australian Art Awards. Her art works titled “Burst of Colour” and “Australian Bird Life” were selected as a finalist in the 2019 Young Australian Art Awards and were then chosen to receive the Gold Medal Award for being the runner-up in their respective sections.
END OF YEAR BAND PERFORMANCE
On Monday, Marita Anderson and I were serenaded by our wonderful band during their End of Year Concert. The Brass Ensemble played Rudolf, the Red-Nosed Reindeer, the Combined Band played Suo Gan, Battle of the Androids (an all time St Martin’s band favourite) and A Royal Christmas. We also have some very brave and talented musicians who gave solo or small group performances. Well done Gareth Voigt and all our instrumental teachers. You and the students should be proud!
CLASS LISTS 2020
We have worked extremely hard on the class lists and whilst we know we can’t please everyone, we believe we have done our very best. On December 16th all students will have an orientation session with their teacher for 2020.
STUDENT REPORTS
Student reports will be published on Compass on Friday 13th December at 5pm. I am sure it will be a smooth upload and I’m certainly not reading anything into the ominous date! Parents of students leaving the school must ensure they have downloaded their child’s reports before 19th December, as they will no longer have access to their child/children's information on Compass.
END OF YEAR WHOLE SCHOOL MASS
Parents are warmly invited to join us for our final whole school Mass which will be on Tuesday, 17th December at 9.15am. The school year officially finishes for Prep - Year 5 students at 1pm on Tuesday 17th December.
With all the happenings around our school, parents and carers are reminded to regularly check their Compass Newsfeed for updates and information.
We are St Martin's, and how fortunate are we to belong to such a great community!
Megan Williams
Acting Principal
Dear Parents and Carers,
As we head into the last few weeks of school it is wonderful to see the Year 6 students enjoying the last few days with some of their school mates and soaking up the last of their primary school days. In the coming weeks the Year 6s will enjoy their ‘Big Day Out’, Graduation Mass and Graduation Dinner.
LEADERSHIP SPEECHES
As one group of leaders prepare to move on from our school, the next cohort looks to step up and be the leaders for 2020. Last week the Year 5 students delivered speeches to their level and teachers to highlight the qualities they would bring to a school leadership position. The School Captains, Vice Captains and RE Captains will formally be announced at the whole school End of Year Mass at 9.15am on Tuesday, December 17th. House Captains, Band Captains and Choir Captains will be announced at our first school Mass on Tuesday 4th February.
STAFFING UPDATE
Last week we wished Jess McGrath, our wonderful Year 1 teacher, best wishes as she started maternity leave. I’m sure you all remember, as well as I do, how exciting it is awaiting the arrival of your first child. Last week also saw Gareth Voigt, our fabulous senior music and band teacher, marry his partner Emily. Along with this happy news, we will also be saying goodbye to a number of staff members this year.
STAFF WHO WILL BE LEAVING US THIS YEAR
Marie Boland
Marie first worked at St Martin’s as a young teacher prior to having her own children. She returned to St Martin’s in 1981 and for almost 40 years! Marie has been on long service leave since the end of Term 2 and has decided that as much as she loves teaching and being with the students, living a life of leisure over the last five months has been quite enjoyable and she has decided to retire. It will certainly feel like a different school without Mrs Boland here next year.
Elisabeth Viola
Elisabeth first started working at St Martin’s in 1996. In the 23 years that she has worked here, Lis has taught multiple year levels and has most recently been our Italian teacher. She isn’t retiring but is interested in travelling and exploring other options.
Eda Conte
Signora first started teaching at St Martin’s in 2001. During her time here she has been both an Italian teacher and classroom teacher. Eda has been on leave this year and, like Marie, has decided to continue living the good life away from the pressures of work!
Heather Hobbs
Heather first started teaching at St Martin’s in 2004 as our Music Teacher. Heather has always been passionate about literacy and trained as a Reading Recovery Teacher and Teacher Intervention, a role that she loved. Heather has taken leave this year. During this time Heather has established a tutoring business named Expert Reading Tuition (http://www.expertreadingtuition.com.au/). Heather has decided to continue to focus on her tutoring business and will not be returning to St Martin’s.
I know I speak for everyone when I wish them all the best in their next adventures. However my experience is that St Martin’s is one of those places that’s a bit like the Hotel California, you may be able to check out, but you can’t ever really leave! So while we’re sad that our four fabulous teachers have decided to seek greener pastures, I know that they’ll be seen around our school again, even if it’s just to pop in and have a chat. We hope that Marie, Lis, Eda and Heather will be able to join us during our end of year whole school Mass.
AN ARTIST AMONGST US
At our Community Prayer Service on Monday, Tarah from Year 4 was selected as a finalist in the 2019 Young Australian Art Awards. Her art works titled “Burst of Colour” and “Australian Bird Life” were selected as a finalist in the 2019 Young Australian Art Awards and were then chosen to receive the Gold Medal Award for being the runner-up in their respective sections.
END OF YEAR BAND PERFORMANCE
On Monday, Marita Anderson and I were serenaded by our wonderful band during their End of Year Concert. The Brass Ensemble played Rudolf, the Red-Nosed Reindeer, the Combined Band played Suo Gan, Battle of the Androids (an all time St Martin’s band favourite) and A Royal Christmas. We also have some very brave and talented musicians who gave solo or small group performances. Well done Gareth Voigt and all our instrumental teachers. You and the students should be proud!
CLASS LISTS 2020
We have worked extremely hard on the class lists and whilst we know we can’t please everyone, we believe we have done our very best. On December 16th all students will have an orientation session with their teacher for 2020.
STUDENT REPORTS
Student reports will be published on Compass on Friday 13th December at 5pm. I am sure it will be a smooth upload and I’m certainly not reading anything into the ominous date! Parents of students leaving the school must ensure they have downloaded their child’s reports before 19th December, as they will no longer have access to their child/children's information on Compass.
END OF YEAR WHOLE SCHOOL MASS
Parents are warmly invited to join us for our final whole school Mass which will be on Tuesday, 17th December at 9.15am. The school year officially finishes for Prep - Year 5 students at 1pm on Tuesday 17th December.
With all the happenings around our school, parents and carers are reminded to regularly check their Compass Newsfeed for updates and information.
We are St Martin's, and how fortunate are we to belong to such a great community!
Megan Williams
Acting Principal
St Martin's Annual Sports Carnival
What a fantastic day to hold our Annual Sports Carnival!
It was great to see the children go home with a ribbon and a big smile on their face.
Thank you to the parent volunteers who helped with the various activities and also the parents who came to support the students.
I would like to thank David Witchell and all our staff for their support today.
Congratulations to Sophie S and Lucas C who won the Boland Bolt.
House winners will be announced at the Community Prayer on Monday morning.
What a fantastic day to hold our Annual Sports Carnival!
It was great to see the children go home with a ribbon and a big smile on their face.
Thank you to the parent volunteers who helped with the various activities and also the parents who came to support the students.
I would like to thank David Witchell and all our staff for their support today.
Congratulations to Sophie S and Lucas C who won the Boland Bolt.
House winners will be announced at the Community Prayer on Monday morning.
First Week of Advent
Advent begins this Sunday, four weeks before Christmas Day and is the season of waiting. Many of the words we pray and sing are full of desire, hope and expectation. We wait as the days get warmer and the school year draws to a close. The ‘waiting’ can help us to celebrate Advent too.
Fun Facts:
★ The origins of Advent can be traced back to the Church in France. In the 4th Century, the Church in France used the period before Epiphany as a time of preparation for baptism. It was called “St. Martin’s Lent” for the 40 days that started on November 11, the feast of St. Martin of Tours.
★ Advent as we know today was developed in Rome. Pope Gregory I in the late 6th or early 7th Century composed many of the prayers, antiphons and psalm responses. Many themes and ideas we now know can be traced to the Roman Advent season.
Representing hope and everlasting light, candles have been traditional symbols of Advent for centuries. On the four Sundays prior to Christmas, we light an Advent candle, with each candle corresponding to a story from the Bible. Advent candles may be placed in evergreen wreaths, called Advent wreaths. We light the white candle inside the wreath on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day to represent the birth of Christ.
Advent is a time of expectation and preparation for the birth of the Lord. The word “Advent” derives from the Latin word “adventus,” which means “coming,” and is associated with the four weeks of preparation for Christmas.
On the seven days before Christmas Eve the church prays special prayers of longing called “O Antiphons”. They call Jesus by seven titles and all begin with “O”.
The first Antiphon: O Wisdom, O Holy Word of God!
Advent begins this Sunday, four weeks before Christmas Day and is the season of waiting. Many of the words we pray and sing are full of desire, hope and expectation. We wait as the days get warmer and the school year draws to a close. The ‘waiting’ can help us to celebrate Advent too.
Fun Facts:
★ The origins of Advent can be traced back to the Church in France. In the 4th Century, the Church in France used the period before Epiphany as a time of preparation for baptism. It was called “St. Martin’s Lent” for the 40 days that started on November 11, the feast of St. Martin of Tours.
★ Advent as we know today was developed in Rome. Pope Gregory I in the late 6th or early 7th Century composed many of the prayers, antiphons and psalm responses. Many themes and ideas we now know can be traced to the Roman Advent season.
Representing hope and everlasting light, candles have been traditional symbols of Advent for centuries. On the four Sundays prior to Christmas, we light an Advent candle, with each candle corresponding to a story from the Bible. Advent candles may be placed in evergreen wreaths, called Advent wreaths. We light the white candle inside the wreath on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day to represent the birth of Christ.
Advent is a time of expectation and preparation for the birth of the Lord. The word “Advent” derives from the Latin word “adventus,” which means “coming,” and is associated with the four weeks of preparation for Christmas.
On the seven days before Christmas Eve the church prays special prayers of longing called “O Antiphons”. They call Jesus by seven titles and all begin with “O”.
The first Antiphon: O Wisdom, O Holy Word of God!
Library News
Dear Parents
As your child may have advised you, this is the last week of library classes. Students will need to return all books during their library lesson this week or by FRIDAY 29th November.
For those students in Years 1 - 6, books from their book box will also need to be returned on Friday. To ensure students keep up their classroom stamina reading we have encouraged them to bring along books from home, swap or share a book with a friend or make a visit to one of the fantastic libraries we have in our local area.
If you have any questions or are unsure of which books your child may have at home please feel free to pop in and see us.
Many thanks
Martine Klaic and Emma Kent
HELP NEEDED PLEASE!
Do you have an hour to spare to help us clean books in the library?
Fun fact: This year, we have loaned 33,865 books from our library to our school community. There are not many primary school libraries who could boast numbers like this and we hope to continue this fabulous engagement next year. Our students are reading more than ever and this can only be a great thing!
With so many books changing hands so frequently, we have found that some of the books are getting a little bit grubby and need a simple wipe to help them continue to be attractive to students for borrowing.
Therefore we are inviting any book lovers in to help us with the enormous task of wiping down all the books.
We will be holding two working bees and would love to see any parents/grandparents/community members who would be able to help us wipe down our collection.
Please join us on Wednesday 11th of December or Thursday 12th of December between 9am and 12pm. Come and go as you please!
Many hands make light work……...and it’s a great way to enjoy a chat with some other parents whilst helping out our school!
Thanks so much in advance,
Emma, Wendy and Martine
Dear Parents
As your child may have advised you, this is the last week of library classes. Students will need to return all books during their library lesson this week or by FRIDAY 29th November.
For those students in Years 1 - 6, books from their book box will also need to be returned on Friday. To ensure students keep up their classroom stamina reading we have encouraged them to bring along books from home, swap or share a book with a friend or make a visit to one of the fantastic libraries we have in our local area.
If you have any questions or are unsure of which books your child may have at home please feel free to pop in and see us.
Many thanks
Martine Klaic and Emma Kent
HELP NEEDED PLEASE!
Do you have an hour to spare to help us clean books in the library?
Fun fact: This year, we have loaned 33,865 books from our library to our school community. There are not many primary school libraries who could boast numbers like this and we hope to continue this fabulous engagement next year. Our students are reading more than ever and this can only be a great thing!
With so many books changing hands so frequently, we have found that some of the books are getting a little bit grubby and need a simple wipe to help them continue to be attractive to students for borrowing.
Therefore we are inviting any book lovers in to help us with the enormous task of wiping down all the books.
We will be holding two working bees and would love to see any parents/grandparents/community members who would be able to help us wipe down our collection.
Please join us on Wednesday 11th of December or Thursday 12th of December between 9am and 12pm. Come and go as you please!
Many hands make light work……...and it’s a great way to enjoy a chat with some other parents whilst helping out our school!
Thanks so much in advance,
Emma, Wendy and Martine
What is the 'Bike Hut'
WHAT IS THE BIKE HUT? 
The Bike Hut operates out of Malahang Reserve West Heidelberg in a purpose built shed by the Banyule Council for local park users to fix their bikes, scooters and skate-boards. Bikes are also donated and given out to local residents to ride to school, work or for recreation. Young people are encouraged to learn bike mechanics and safe riding skills as they help fix their bikes.
The Bike Hut is run by committed volunteers with a keen interest in biking and supporting the community and is open on Thursdays from 3:30 - 5:00pm.
What can we do as a community?
If you have any unwanted bikes that you no longer need, St Martin’s school is collecting bikes to donate to the BIKE HUT. If you would like to donate a bike to this great service, please bring the bike to school on Friday 13th of December. The bikes will then be collected by the Bike Hut volunteers.
WHAT IS THE BIKE HUT?
The Bike Hut operates out of Malahang Reserve West Heidelberg in a purpose built shed by the Banyule Council for local park users to fix their bikes, scooters and skate-boards. Bikes are also donated and given out to local residents to ride to school, work or for recreation. Young people are encouraged to learn bike mechanics and safe riding skills as they help fix their bikes.
The Bike Hut is run by committed volunteers with a keen interest in biking and supporting the community and is open on Thursdays from 3:30 - 5:00pm.
What can we do as a community?
If you have any unwanted bikes that you no longer need, St Martin’s school is collecting bikes to donate to the BIKE HUT. If you would like to donate a bike to this great service, please bring the bike to school on Friday 13th of December. The bikes will then be collected by the Bike Hut volunteers.
The St Martin's Wardrobe
Dear families,
The St Martin’s Uniform Committee is excited to announce additional items will be available for order in 2020.
The committee, made up of parents and carers from our school, conducted a review of the current wardrobe options with the intention of:
- encouraging all students to be active and move freely without restriction throughout the school day
- allowing students to choose wardrobe options which they feel comfortable wearing
- maintaining an overall ‘St Martin’s look’
The additions to the uniform are welcome options, enabling students to be active and confident while respecting, acknowledging and celebrating our togetherness through our wardrobe.
All current wardrobe options will remain with the exception of a few items (detailed below). These will be phased out over a three year transition period ending in 2022.
With this in mind, the following options have been added to the SMOT wardrobe:
Short Sleeve Blouse (Peter Pan collar)
Navy Skort
Navy Tailored Shorts
Navy Elastic Shorts (to replace grey shorts over a 3-year transition period)
Navy Long Pants with reinforced knee (to replace grey trouser over a 3-year transition period)
Blue socks with red stripe (to replace grey socks) and worn with all wardrobe options, however; white socks will remain for the short sleeve dress sports socks will remain on sports days.
Rain jacket with inner fleece
Red and Navy Long Sleeve Sports Polo (to replace long sleeve red sports polo)
We trust new and existing families will welcome this wardrobe update and will embrace our new look!
Please click here for the Academy Uniforms price list.
Dear families,
The St Martin’s Uniform Committee is excited to announce additional items will be available for order in 2020.
The committee, made up of parents and carers from our school, conducted a review of the current wardrobe options with the intention of:
- encouraging all students to be active and move freely without restriction throughout the school day
- allowing students to choose wardrobe options which they feel comfortable wearing
- maintaining an overall ‘St Martin’s look’
The additions to the uniform are welcome options, enabling students to be active and confident while respecting, acknowledging and celebrating our togetherness through our wardrobe.
All current wardrobe options will remain with the exception of a few items (detailed below). These will be phased out over a three year transition period ending in 2022.
With this in mind, the following options have been added to the SMOT wardrobe:
Short Sleeve Blouse (Peter Pan collar)
Navy Skort
Navy Tailored Shorts
Navy Elastic Shorts (to replace grey shorts over a 3-year transition period)
Navy Long Pants with reinforced knee (to replace grey trouser over a 3-year transition period)
Blue socks with red stripe (to replace grey socks) and worn with all wardrobe options, however; white socks will remain for the short sleeve dress sports socks will remain on sports days.
Rain jacket with inner fleece
Red and Navy Long Sleeve Sports Polo (to replace long sleeve red sports polo)
We trust new and existing families will welcome this wardrobe update and will embrace our new look!
Please click here for the Academy Uniforms price list.
R.E. News
Term 4 Religious Education Dates
December
★ 16th - Year 6 Graduation Mass at 11am
★ 17th - End of Year Mass at 9.15am
SACRAMENTAL DATES 2020
Please note further information regarding the Sacrament Program will be provided in 2020.
Confirmation
★Saturday 2nd May (11:00am and 1:30pm)
First Eucharist
★Saturday 8th August
★Sunday 9th August
★Saturday 15th August
★Sunday 16th August
First Reconciliation
★Tuesday 13th October
★Tuesday 20th October
★Tuesday 27th October
Term 4 Religious Education Dates
December
★ 16th - Year 6 Graduation Mass at 11am
★ 17th - End of Year Mass at 9.15am
SACRAMENTAL DATES 2020
Please note further information regarding the Sacrament Program will be provided in 2020.
Confirmation
★Saturday 2nd May (11:00am and 1:30pm)
First Eucharist
★Saturday 8th August
★Sunday 9th August
★Saturday 15th August
★Sunday 16th August
First Reconciliation
★Tuesday 13th October
★Tuesday 20th October
★Tuesday 27th October
Prep 2020 News
PREP 2020 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Prep parents Tea and Tissues morning 9am -10am
PREP 2020 SCHOOL DAYS AND TIMES
Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Tuesday 4th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Wednesday 5th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students.
Thursday 6th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Friday 7th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Monday 10th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm, except for Wednesdays.
During the month of February Prep students do not attend classes on Wednesdays ie 5th February, 12th February, 19th February and 26th February, as Prep teachers conduct Prep student assessments.
Monday 2nd March - Prep students commence FULL school week days.
PREP 2020 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Prep parents Tea and Tissues morning 9am -10am
PREP 2020 SCHOOL DAYS AND TIMES
Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Tuesday 4th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Wednesday 5th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students.
Thursday 6th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Friday 7th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Monday 10th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm, except for Wednesdays.
During the month of February Prep students do not attend classes on Wednesdays ie 5th February, 12th February, 19th February and 26th February, as Prep teachers conduct Prep student assessments.
Monday 2nd March - Prep students commence FULL school week days.
School Fees
Thank you to the families who have returned their payment plans.
Payment plans must be completed each year.
The options are fortnightly (20 payments) or monthly (10 payments) for direct debit from a bank account.
For credit cards, monthly payments are the only option.
The amounts on the table for payment plans do not include camp.
On receipt of the payment plans, if camps are to be included, the amount for camp will be added to the base amounts shown in the table.
Please supply email address and your mobile number. You will receive an email with confirmation of payment details.
Completed forms must be sent to the office in the envelope provided as soon as possible.
If you have any queries please email me marym@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Mary Milione
Bursar
Thank you to the families who have returned their payment plans.
Payment plans must be completed each year.
The options are fortnightly (20 payments) or monthly (10 payments) for direct debit from a bank account.
For credit cards, monthly payments are the only option.
The amounts on the table for payment plans do not include camp.
On receipt of the payment plans, if camps are to be included, the amount for camp will be added to the base amounts shown in the table.
Please supply email address and your mobile number. You will receive an email with confirmation of payment details.
Completed forms must be sent to the office in the envelope provided as soon as possible.
If you have any queries please email me marym@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Mary Milione
Bursar
Student Awards
WEEK 7
PGR Micah for being enthusiastic towards his learning and for always trying his best.
Mia for sharing her interesting ideas and thoughts during discussions and for accepting new challenges in her learning.
Jack for having a go at stretching out new words in his reading and writing and for making good choices when working in the classroom.
PPV Harry for working so hard on his reading and writing this year. Well done Harry!
PVL Sachin for being a pleasant and caring classmate in Prep VL.
Ethan for being a kind and respectful member of Prep VL.
1B Ava for always being focused and using expression when reading aloud.
1LB Mikaela S for showing fabulous improvement in both Reading and Writing. Mikaela has grown in confidence in her learning ability and consistently tries her best in each learning task. Amazing work Mikaela!
1Mc Madeleine for making wonderful progress on her reading strategies this year. Well done Madeleine! You should be very proud of yourself.
2C
2CB Edie for the positive approach she displays in class and the continued improvement she has shown in her school work. Also the friendly and caring attitude she demonstrates towards others in our class.
2F Joshua H for always bringing a smile to the faces of your peers. You always know how to help people enjoy their day. Keep smiling!
3JT Lachlan for an engaging comic strip of the Wedding at Cana.
3MT Anika for all her efforts and hard work in Reading and Mathematics as she has made amazing gains to her learning this semester.
4C 4C for getting into the spirit of Spirit Week!
4TC
4ZM Jamie S greatest students of 2019!
5AO Maya K for her persistence during challenging Math tasks. Maya you have shown you have a growth mindset towards Math and have pushed yourself when faced with challenges.
5CW
5T
6AM Kayla for her amazing efforts in Maths converting between Fractions, decimals and percentages. You are a champion! 6P Madison for showing great progress in her presentation skills.
6W
WEEK 8
PGR Ana for her fabulous efforts in her reading this term and for being a kind and friendly classmate.
Blake for working hard at trying to remember to use spaces in his writing and for always being a super listener.
Daisy for using lots of detail in her writing to make it interesting for the reader to enjoy and for being so enthusiastic towards her learning.
PPV Grace for always working to the best of her ability and completing neat and well presented work.
PVL Jonty for always being respectful and using his beautiful manners at all times.
Valentina for making great progress with her writing and hearing sounds in words. Well done!
1B Leo for always being encouraging toward others and for working hard to be a great listener during class time.
1LB Mia for working hard to improve the standard of her writing by adding more detail and presenting her work in a neat and clear manner. Fantastic effort Mia and keep up the hard work!
1Mc Jemima for working so hard on improving her handwriting and numbers this year. She has made amazing progress with her writing. She should be very proud of her achievements. Congratulations Jem!
2C
2CB Lucas for always applying himself well in maths to complete challenges. Also for the correct choices he has made in class and the positive effect this has had on himself and others. Well done Lucas!
2F
3JT Tommy for his effort with the drawing for his comic strip on the Annunciation.
3MT Ms. Tieppo for being an important member of 3MT and for sharing her knowledge, stories and sense of humour with the class.
4C
4TC
4ZM Xavier C Greatest students of 2019
5AO
5CW
5T
6AM Thomas and Alessia for their amazing explanations on renewable energy sources for their Inquiry Research Projects. It was informative and well written. Well done!
6P Jessica for her engaging Inquiry presentation!
6W
WEEK 7
PGR Micah for being enthusiastic towards his learning and for always trying his best.
Mia for sharing her interesting ideas and thoughts during discussions and for accepting new challenges in her learning.
Jack for having a go at stretching out new words in his reading and writing and for making good choices when working in the classroom.
PPV Harry for working so hard on his reading and writing this year. Well done Harry!
PVL Sachin for being a pleasant and caring classmate in Prep VL.
Ethan for being a kind and respectful member of Prep VL.
1B Ava for always being focused and using expression when reading aloud.
1LB Mikaela S for showing fabulous improvement in both Reading and Writing. Mikaela has grown in confidence in her learning ability and consistently tries her best in each learning task. Amazing work Mikaela!
1Mc Madeleine for making wonderful progress on her reading strategies this year. Well done Madeleine! You should be very proud of yourself.
2C
2CB Edie for the positive approach she displays in class and the continued improvement she has shown in her school work. Also the friendly and caring attitude she demonstrates towards others in our class.
2F Joshua H for always bringing a smile to the faces of your peers. You always know how to help people enjoy their day. Keep smiling!
3JT Lachlan for an engaging comic strip of the Wedding at Cana.
3MT Anika for all her efforts and hard work in Reading and Mathematics as she has made amazing gains to her learning this semester.
4C 4C for getting into the spirit of Spirit Week!
4TC
4ZM Jamie S greatest students of 2019!
5AO Maya K for her persistence during challenging Math tasks. Maya you have shown you have a growth mindset towards Math and have pushed yourself when faced with challenges.
5CW
5T
6AM Kayla for her amazing efforts in Maths converting between Fractions, decimals and percentages. You are a champion! 6P Madison for showing great progress in her presentation skills.
6W
WEEK 8
PGR Ana for her fabulous efforts in her reading this term and for being a kind and friendly classmate.
Blake for working hard at trying to remember to use spaces in his writing and for always being a super listener.
Daisy for using lots of detail in her writing to make it interesting for the reader to enjoy and for being so enthusiastic towards her learning.
PPV Grace for always working to the best of her ability and completing neat and well presented work.
PVL Jonty for always being respectful and using his beautiful manners at all times.
Valentina for making great progress with her writing and hearing sounds in words. Well done!
1B Leo for always being encouraging toward others and for working hard to be a great listener during class time.
1LB Mia for working hard to improve the standard of her writing by adding more detail and presenting her work in a neat and clear manner. Fantastic effort Mia and keep up the hard work!
1Mc Jemima for working so hard on improving her handwriting and numbers this year. She has made amazing progress with her writing. She should be very proud of her achievements. Congratulations Jem!
2C
2CB Lucas for always applying himself well in maths to complete challenges. Also for the correct choices he has made in class and the positive effect this has had on himself and others. Well done Lucas!
2F
3JT Tommy for his effort with the drawing for his comic strip on the Annunciation.
3MT Ms. Tieppo for being an important member of 3MT and for sharing her knowledge, stories and sense of humour with the class.
4C
4TC
4ZM Xavier C Greatest students of 2019
5AO
5CW
5T
6AM Thomas and Alessia for their amazing explanations on renewable energy sources for their Inquiry Research Projects. It was informative and well written. Well done!
6P Jessica for her engaging Inquiry presentation!
6W
Messages, Reminders and Dates
Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information
Friday 29th November
★ St Martin's Carnival Sports Day
Monday 2nd December
★ PGR and PPV Class Mass
Thursday 5th December
★ Year 2 Excursion
Friday 6th December
★ Year 6 BIG DAY OUT
Monday 9th December
★ Parent Helper Morning Tea GECCO 11.10am-11.50am
Thursday 12th December
★ Carols Night
Monday 16th December
★ Year 6 Graduation Mass 11am
★ Year 6 Students only Finish at 1pm
★ Change Over Day Prep - Year 5 students at 2pm
★ Year 6 Graduation Dinner 6.30pm
Tuesday 17th December
★ Last day of Term 4
★ End of Year Whole School Mass 9.15am
★ Students (Prep-Year 5) Dismissed at 1pm
PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWSFEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS
Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information
Friday 29th November
★ St Martin's Carnival Sports Day
Monday 2nd December
★ PGR and PPV Class Mass
Thursday 5th December
★ Year 2 Excursion
Friday 6th December
★ Year 6 BIG DAY OUT
Monday 9th December
★ Parent Helper Morning Tea GECCO 11.10am-11.50am
Thursday 12th December
★ Carols Night
Monday 16th December
★ Year 6 Graduation Mass 11am
★ Year 6 Students only Finish at 1pm
★ Change Over Day Prep - Year 5 students at 2pm
★ Year 6 Graduation Dinner 6.30pm
Tuesday 17th December
★ Last day of Term 4
★ End of Year Whole School Mass 9.15am
★ Students (Prep-Year 5) Dismissed at 1pm
PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWSFEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS
OSHClub News
OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm.
Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au
Please read the newsletter for activity information.
OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm.
Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au
Please read the newsletter for activity information.
Parish News
Message from Fr. Michael
Reflection on the Official Opening/Blessing of the Mercy Building.
It went well...and we named most of the people who contributed to this great learning facility. It was also fitting that the architects, builders and overseers of the building project could come and see how the Mercy Building is now being utilized. And they were visibly touched. “This is why we do our job,” said the 2 architects, “so that children can benefit from such a great building for the next 40 or 50 years!”
Reflecting on the day I felt that we appropriately honoured Mr Dane Malone, our former Principal, who put so much of his energy and drive into the project. However, it’s also important to say a big thanks, a huge thanks to Megan Williams our Acting Principal, Marita Anderson our Deputy Principal and the Leadership Team of our Parish School for how they have CONTINUED to operate the Mercy Building and indeed our whole Parish School in the spirit of Mr Dane Malone.
St Martin of Tours Youth Group - ACYF Fundraiser
1st of December we will be holding a Bake Sale after 10am Mass to raise funds for our trip to Perth for the ACYF in December.
If any members of St Martin’s school community would like to aid in our bake sale, any donations of desserts and baked goods for the fundraiser with a list of their ingredients would be greatly appreciated.
PARISH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING—SUNDAY 8th DECEMBER 2019 11.15 am in the GECCO.
Please note this date. Our Annual General Meeting will be held in the GECCO (school hall) on Sunday 8th December. All parishioners are encouraged to attend. All parish groups are invited to present a report at the AGM. This report can be a written or oral presentation on your group’s activities. Written reports should be no more than 250 words (half a page) while any presentation at the AGM should be 5 minutes or less. If you wish to present a report on the activities of a parish group, please contact or send your report to the Parish office by Wednesday 4th December 2019.
CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS MASS 2019
SMOT Liturgy Team is calling for children to perform in the Christmas gospel play at 5pm during the Christmas Eve Mass on 24th December 2019 here at St Martin of Tours Church.
We need shepherds, wise men, a drummer boy, angels, singers from the school choir, speaker for prayers of faithful and more...All costumes provided. Parent helpers are also required to assist with rehearsals and at the 5pm. This is a great opportunity for parents and children to be involved in their school parish and help bring the Christmas story to life! Please email Sr Maria at Maria.Bui@cam.org.au or call the Parish Office on 9457 4275
Catholic Theological College 2020 Study Options Now Available!
Graduate Certificate in Teaching Meditation:
Meditation in the Christian Tradition; Applied Meditation; Meditation and Wholeness Audit and Credit options available Contact the Academic Records Office for enrolment information and appointments. 03 9412 3309 – AssistantDean@ctc.edu.au – 278 Vitoria Parade, East Melbourne ctc@ctc.edu.au
Message from Fr. Michael
Reflection on the Official Opening/Blessing of the Mercy Building.
It went well...and we named most of the people who contributed to this great learning facility. It was also fitting that the architects, builders and overseers of the building project could come and see how the Mercy Building is now being utilized. And they were visibly touched. “This is why we do our job,” said the 2 architects, “so that children can benefit from such a great building for the next 40 or 50 years!”
Reflecting on the day I felt that we appropriately honoured Mr Dane Malone, our former Principal, who put so much of his energy and drive into the project. However, it’s also important to say a big thanks, a huge thanks to Megan Williams our Acting Principal, Marita Anderson our Deputy Principal and the Leadership Team of our Parish School for how they have CONTINUED to operate the Mercy Building and indeed our whole Parish School in the spirit of Mr Dane Malone.
St Martin of Tours Youth Group - ACYF Fundraiser
1st of December we will be holding a Bake Sale after 10am Mass to raise funds for our trip to Perth for the ACYF in December.
If any members of St Martin’s school community would like to aid in our bake sale, any donations of desserts and baked goods for the fundraiser with a list of their ingredients would be greatly appreciated.
PARISH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING—SUNDAY 8th DECEMBER 2019 11.15 am in the GECCO.
Please note this date. Our Annual General Meeting will be held in the GECCO (school hall) on Sunday 8th December. All parishioners are encouraged to attend. All parish groups are invited to present a report at the AGM. This report can be a written or oral presentation on your group’s activities. Written reports should be no more than 250 words (half a page) while any presentation at the AGM should be 5 minutes or less. If you wish to present a report on the activities of a parish group, please contact or send your report to the Parish office by Wednesday 4th December 2019.
CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS MASS 2019
SMOT Liturgy Team is calling for children to perform in the Christmas gospel play at 5pm during the Christmas Eve Mass on 24th December 2019 here at St Martin of Tours Church.
We need shepherds, wise men, a drummer boy, angels, singers from the school choir, speaker for prayers of faithful and more...All costumes provided. Parent helpers are also required to assist with rehearsals and at the 5pm. This is a great opportunity for parents and children to be involved in their school parish and help bring the Christmas story to life! Please email Sr Maria at Maria.Bui@cam.org.au or call the Parish Office on 9457 4275
Catholic Theological College 2020 Study Options Now Available!
Graduate Certificate in Teaching Meditation:
Meditation in the Christian Tradition; Applied Meditation; Meditation and Wholeness Audit and Credit options available Contact the Academic Records Office for enrolment information and appointments. 03 9412 3309 – AssistantDean@ctc.edu.au – 278 Vitoria Parade, East Melbourne ctc@ctc.edu.au
A Note From Meg
Dear Parents and Carers,
What a great two weeks we’ve had!
I think we all enjoyed the long weekend. Term 4 is a crazy term and that four days gives everyone’s batteries a bit of a charge.
Spirit of St Martin’s Week
The short Melbourne Cup week was followed by our inaugural Spirit of St Martin’s Week. This is the third school I’ve taught at that held a Spirit Week and we definitely embraced it. It is a great circuit breaker for everyone at what is often a hectic time of the year. A time to remember why we love our school and how lucky we all are to have such a great community around us. It’s a time to celebrate and have a bit of fun! Our student leaders were excited about the concept and came up with some great ideas to add to the fun of the week.
We started Spirit of St Martin’s Week with our annual Feast Day Mass on Monday morning. Marita Anderson put together a beautiful celebration in honour of St Martin and our choir sang beautifully. We also took this time to remember our veterans, our fallen soldiers and the wars that have gone before us and to pray they will never happen again. Gabby (4TC) was exceptional as she played The Last Post and Rouse on her trumpet to finish off our moving Remembrance Day reflection.
The day continued with an enthusiastic sing-along in the GECCO at lunchtime. Not sure I’d say it was up to our choir’s standard but there certainly was a lot of enthusiasm! Tuesday saw lots of famous characters around the school along with some wacky races on the oval. Wednesday brought some interesting hair styles and a students vs teachers Netball game and by Thursday everyone was ready for a pyjama day!
Which brings us to the day to beat all days, Friday and the inaugural St Martin’s Colour Run! I’m not sure who had the most fun. Along with a lot of very happy children, seemed to be a lot of ‘older’ kids having just as much fun! A HUGE thank you to Michelle, Kate and Belinda for organising such a fantastic day for our students and also a big thank you to our parent volunteers on the day. The day couldn’t have happened without all your hard work.
Another HUGE thank you goes to Bianca and Anna for organising the Prep Welcome Dinner on Friday night. I’m sure you all remember your welcome dinners fondly. I was unable to attend but Marita Anderson tells me everyone had a great night and our new families were given a wonderful welcome to our great school community.
What’s been happening?
Even with two weeks as big as these, we also had other events on around the school:
● The preps went to the Preston Market
● 5CW celebrated their Class Mass
● 2020 preps had their 1st and 2nd transition days to school
● Year 6 parents and students were invited to a talk on ‘Puberty and Adolescence’
● 5T celebrated their Class Mass
● Combined Band performed at the Victorian School Music Festival
● Year 6 had an incursion from Metro trains’
● The Mercy building Blessing and Official Opening
Year 6 Puberty and Adolescence Night
Jamie Atherton, our Wellbeing Leader, organised for an opportunity for our year 6 parents to bring their children to an information evening about puberty and adolescence. Kate Wilde was our presenter and she had the crowd in fits of laughter, removing any discomfort surrounding the potentially awkward discussion. I think we agreed by the end of the night that everybody smells, teenagers need to shower, wear deodorant and change their clothes regularly and that both boys’ and girls’ bodies do things which are natural but they can’t control! Next year we are planning on puberty and adolescence being incorporated into parts of the curriculum for year 5 and 6 with Kate returning to run an information session for parents prior to the units, take the students for some more in-depth lessons and having a student-parent session at the conclusion. More information regarding this will be provided next year.
Yes, it has been another big fortnight at St Martin’s!
With only a month of school left this year and lots of events planned, parents and carers are reminded to regularly check their Compass Newsfeed for updates and information.
We are St Martin's, and how fortunate are we to belong to such a great community!
Megan Williams
Acting Principal
Dear Parents and Carers,
What a great two weeks we’ve had!
I think we all enjoyed the long weekend. Term 4 is a crazy term and that four days gives everyone’s batteries a bit of a charge.
Spirit of St Martin’s Week
The short Melbourne Cup week was followed by our inaugural Spirit of St Martin’s Week. This is the third school I’ve taught at that held a Spirit Week and we definitely embraced it. It is a great circuit breaker for everyone at what is often a hectic time of the year. A time to remember why we love our school and how lucky we all are to have such a great community around us. It’s a time to celebrate and have a bit of fun! Our student leaders were excited about the concept and came up with some great ideas to add to the fun of the week.
We started Spirit of St Martin’s Week with our annual Feast Day Mass on Monday morning. Marita Anderson put together a beautiful celebration in honour of St Martin and our choir sang beautifully. We also took this time to remember our veterans, our fallen soldiers and the wars that have gone before us and to pray they will never happen again. Gabby (4TC) was exceptional as she played The Last Post and Rouse on her trumpet to finish off our moving Remembrance Day reflection.
The day continued with an enthusiastic sing-along in the GECCO at lunchtime. Not sure I’d say it was up to our choir’s standard but there certainly was a lot of enthusiasm! Tuesday saw lots of famous characters around the school along with some wacky races on the oval. Wednesday brought some interesting hair styles and a students vs teachers Netball game and by Thursday everyone was ready for a pyjama day!
Which brings us to the day to beat all days, Friday and the inaugural St Martin’s Colour Run! I’m not sure who had the most fun. Along with a lot of very happy children, seemed to be a lot of ‘older’ kids having just as much fun! A HUGE thank you to Michelle, Kate and Belinda for organising such a fantastic day for our students and also a big thank you to our parent volunteers on the day. The day couldn’t have happened without all your hard work.
Another HUGE thank you goes to Bianca and Anna for organising the Prep Welcome Dinner on Friday night. I’m sure you all remember your welcome dinners fondly. I was unable to attend but Marita Anderson tells me everyone had a great night and our new families were given a wonderful welcome to our great school community.
What’s been happening?
Even with two weeks as big as these, we also had other events on around the school:
● The preps went to the Preston Market
● 5CW celebrated their Class Mass
● 2020 preps had their 1st and 2nd transition days to school
● Year 6 parents and students were invited to a talk on ‘Puberty and Adolescence’
● 5T celebrated their Class Mass
● Combined Band performed at the Victorian School Music Festival
● Year 6 had an incursion from Metro trains’
● The Mercy building Blessing and Official Opening
Year 6 Puberty and Adolescence Night
Jamie Atherton, our Wellbeing Leader, organised for an opportunity for our year 6 parents to bring their children to an information evening about puberty and adolescence. Kate Wilde was our presenter and she had the crowd in fits of laughter, removing any discomfort surrounding the potentially awkward discussion. I think we agreed by the end of the night that everybody smells, teenagers need to shower, wear deodorant and change their clothes regularly and that both boys’ and girls’ bodies do things which are natural but they can’t control! Next year we are planning on puberty and adolescence being incorporated into parts of the curriculum for year 5 and 6 with Kate returning to run an information session for parents prior to the units, take the students for some more in-depth lessons and having a student-parent session at the conclusion. More information regarding this will be provided next year.
Yes, it has been another big fortnight at St Martin’s!
With only a month of school left this year and lots of events planned, parents and carers are reminded to regularly check their Compass Newsfeed for updates and information.
We are St Martin's, and how fortunate are we to belong to such a great community!
Megan Williams
Acting Principal
The Mercy Building -Blessing and Official Opening
Today we were joined by Archbishop Peter Comensoli, Sherry Balcombe (Aboriginal Catholic Ministry Victoria), Anthony Carbines MP (MLA for Ivanhoe), Tom Melican (Banyule City Councilor) along with Maureen Malone, Dane’s wife, our architects from Smith and Tracey, representatives from Rayset, our builders, parishioners, parents and many others to officially open and bless our new Mercy Building.
Archbishop Peter lead the ceremony, walking with everyone through the building blessing each room and commenting on what a great learning space we have.
The Mercy Building is officially dedicated to the memory of Mr Dane Malone, and his vision for our new learning space. In true Dane style, however, I think he wanted to have a bit of a laugh with us as his plaque was lost in the mail and we had to create a temporary one for the day. Australia Post assures us they know where it is and it will be here in the next few days!
Both plaques will be mounted onto the new building near the main doors leading into the building.
Today we were joined by Archbishop Peter Comensoli, Sherry Balcombe (Aboriginal Catholic Ministry Victoria), Anthony Carbines MP (MLA for Ivanhoe), Tom Melican (Banyule City Councilor) along with Maureen Malone, Dane’s wife, our architects from Smith and Tracey, representatives from Rayset, our builders, parishioners, parents and many others to officially open and bless our new Mercy Building.
Archbishop Peter lead the ceremony, walking with everyone through the building blessing each room and commenting on what a great learning space we have.
The Mercy Building is officially dedicated to the memory of Mr Dane Malone, and his vision for our new learning space. In true Dane style, however, I think he wanted to have a bit of a laugh with us as his plaque was lost in the mail and we had to create a temporary one for the day. Australia Post assures us they know where it is and it will be here in the next few days!
Both plaques will be mounted onto the new building near the main doors leading into the building.
Spirit of St Martin's Week
A time to remember why we love our school and how lucky we all are to have such a great community around us!
A time to remember why we love our school and how lucky we all are to have such a great community around us!
Prep Excursion
On Wednesday the Preps visited the Preston Market. They had a wonderful day seeing all the many different plants and animals that we can buy from the market and eat as food on our table. They also enjoyed a pizza lunch at the local pizza shop. Yum! Yum!
On Wednesday the Preps visited the Preston Market. They had a wonderful day seeing all the many different plants and animals that we can buy from the market and eat as food on our table. They also enjoyed a pizza lunch at the local pizza shop. Yum! Yum!
Combined Band Performance -Victorian School Music Festival
On Thursday 7th of November, our Combined Band performed at the Victorian School Music Festival held at Hawthorn Arts Centre.
The VSMF invites school bands and orchestras to perform in some of Victoria’s premier performing spaces and the opportunity to work with leading music educators.
This was the first time a St Martin of Tours group has participated and were given very positive feedback from the adjudicators.
A huge congratulations to our Combined Band for their wonderful performance! We are all so proud of the work you have put in over the weeks and how well you played. Also, a big thank you to the parents who came to be part of the audience and support the band.
We welcome the St Martin of Tours community to our annual End of Year Music Concert on the 25th November, held at Marcellin College theatre at 7pm. For more details, contact band@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
On Thursday 7th of November, our Combined Band performed at the Victorian School Music Festival held at Hawthorn Arts Centre.
The VSMF invites school bands and orchestras to perform in some of Victoria’s premier performing spaces and the opportunity to work with leading music educators.
This was the first time a St Martin of Tours group has participated and were given very positive feedback from the adjudicators.
A huge congratulations to our Combined Band for their wonderful performance! We are all so proud of the work you have put in over the weeks and how well you played. Also, a big thank you to the parents who came to be part of the audience and support the band.
We welcome the St Martin of Tours community to our annual End of Year Music Concert on the 25th November, held at Marcellin College theatre at 7pm. For more details, contact band@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
The St Martin's Wardrobe
Dear families,
The St Martin’s Uniform Committee is excited to announce additional items will be available for order in 2020.
The committee, made up of parents and carers from our school, conducted a review of the current wardrobe options with the intention of:
- encouraging all students to be active and move freely without restriction throughout the school day
- allowing students to choose wardrobe options which they feel comfortable wearing
- maintaining an overall ‘St Martin’s look’
The additions to the uniform are welcome options, enabling students to be active and confident while respecting, acknowledging and celebrating our togetherness through our wardrobe.
All current wardrobe options will remain with the exception of a few items (detailed below). These will be phased out over a three year transition period ending in 2022.
With this in mind, the following options have been added to the SMOT wardrobe and are available for viewing in the GECCO:
Short Sleeve Blouse (Peter Pan collar)
Navy Skort
Navy Tailored Shorts
Navy Elastic Shorts (to replace grey shorts over a 3-year transition period)
Navy Long Pants with reinforced knee (to replace grey trouser over a 3-year transition period)
Blue socks with red stripe (to replace grey socks) and worn with all wardrobe options, however; white socks will remain for the short sleeve dress sports socks will remain on sports days.
Rain jacket with inner fleece
Red and Navy Long Sleeve Sports Polo (to replace long sleeve red sports polo)
We trust new and existing families will welcome this wardrobe update and will embrace our new look!
Please click here for the Academy Uniforms price list.
Dear families,
The St Martin’s Uniform Committee is excited to announce additional items will be available for order in 2020.
The committee, made up of parents and carers from our school, conducted a review of the current wardrobe options with the intention of:
- encouraging all students to be active and move freely without restriction throughout the school day
- allowing students to choose wardrobe options which they feel comfortable wearing
- maintaining an overall ‘St Martin’s look’
The additions to the uniform are welcome options, enabling students to be active and confident while respecting, acknowledging and celebrating our togetherness through our wardrobe.
All current wardrobe options will remain with the exception of a few items (detailed below). These will be phased out over a three year transition period ending in 2022.
With this in mind, the following options have been added to the SMOT wardrobe and are available for viewing in the GECCO:
Short Sleeve Blouse (Peter Pan collar)
Navy Skort
Navy Tailored Shorts
Navy Elastic Shorts (to replace grey shorts over a 3-year transition period)
Navy Long Pants with reinforced knee (to replace grey trouser over a 3-year transition period)
Blue socks with red stripe (to replace grey socks) and worn with all wardrobe options, however; white socks will remain for the short sleeve dress sports socks will remain on sports days.
Rain jacket with inner fleece
Red and Navy Long Sleeve Sports Polo (to replace long sleeve red sports polo)
We trust new and existing families will welcome this wardrobe update and will embrace our new look!
Please click here for the Academy Uniforms price list.
Premiers’ Reading Challenge
We are so proud to announce that the Premiers’ Reading Challenge was another amazing success again this year.
125 Students completed the challenge.
A huge thank you to all the families who encouraged and supported their children to read so many wonderful books. It is a great achievement and will definitely have opened a magical window into the beautiful books we have in our library and beyond.
To celebrate this achievement, students were be presented with their certificates on Tuesday 19th November. The Member for Ivanhoe, Anthony Carbines congratulated them and read a special story to the students in the library.
Congratulations to all of our Premiers’ Reading Challenge Participants, we are so proud of you!
We are so proud to announce that the Premiers’ Reading Challenge was another amazing success again this year.
125 Students completed the challenge.
A huge thank you to all the families who encouraged and supported their children to read so many wonderful books. It is a great achievement and will definitely have opened a magical window into the beautiful books we have in our library and beyond.
To celebrate this achievement, students were be presented with their certificates on Tuesday 19th November. The Member for Ivanhoe, Anthony Carbines congratulated them and read a special story to the students in the library.
Congratulations to all of our Premiers’ Reading Challenge Participants, we are so proud of you!
S.T.E.M
Thank you all so much for your contributions to the Woolworths Earn and Learn program for 2019. We were very successful with our collection and were able to buy fantastic sets of Science and Digital Technology equipment which will be used in the classrooms as well as in S.T.E.M lessons.
This has truly been a great opportunity for our school as we are able to be exposed to resources that we may not have known existed. I thank you for contributing to this fantastic program and look forward to showcasing some of the wonderful work students will be doing with these newfound technologies and resources.
Brendan Ooi
S.T.E.M Teacher
Thank you all so much for your contributions to the Woolworths Earn and Learn program for 2019. We were very successful with our collection and were able to buy fantastic sets of Science and Digital Technology equipment which will be used in the classrooms as well as in S.T.E.M lessons.
This has truly been a great opportunity for our school as we are able to be exposed to resources that we may not have known existed. I thank you for contributing to this fantastic program and look forward to showcasing some of the wonderful work students will be doing with these newfound technologies and resources.
Brendan Ooi
S.T.E.M Teacher
R.E. News
Term 4 Religious Education Dates
December
★ 16th - Year 6 Graduation Mass at 11am
★ 17th - End of Year Mass at 9.15am
SACRAMENTAL DATES 2020
Please note further information regarding the Sacrament Program will be provided in 2020.
Confirmation
★Saturday 2nd May (11:00am and 1:30pm)
First Eucharist
★Saturday 8th August
★Sunday 9th August
★Saturday 15th August
★Sunday 16th August
First Reconciliation
★Tuesday 13th October
★Tuesday 20th October
★Tuesday 27th October
Term 4 Religious Education Dates
December
★ 16th - Year 6 Graduation Mass at 11am
★ 17th - End of Year Mass at 9.15am
SACRAMENTAL DATES 2020
Please note further information regarding the Sacrament Program will be provided in 2020.
Confirmation
★Saturday 2nd May (11:00am and 1:30pm)
First Eucharist
★Saturday 8th August
★Sunday 9th August
★Saturday 15th August
★Sunday 16th August
First Reconciliation
★Tuesday 13th October
★Tuesday 20th October
★Tuesday 27th October
Prep 2020 News
PREP 2020 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Prep parents Tea and Tissues morning 9am -10am
PREP 2020 SCHOOL DAYS AND TIMES
Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Tuesday 4th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Wednesday 5th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students.
Thursday 6th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Friday 7th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Monday 10th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm, except for Wednesdays.
During the month of February Prep students do not attend classes on Wednesdays ie 5th February, 12th February, 19th February and 26th February, as Prep teachers conduct Prep student assessments.
Monday 2nd March - Prep students commence FULL school week days.
PREP 2020 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Prep parents Tea and Tissues morning 9am -10am
PREP 2020 SCHOOL DAYS AND TIMES
Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Tuesday 4th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Wednesday 5th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students.
Thursday 6th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Friday 7th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Monday 10th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm, except for Wednesdays.
During the month of February Prep students do not attend classes on Wednesdays ie 5th February, 12th February, 19th February and 26th February, as Prep teachers conduct Prep student assessments.
Monday 2nd March - Prep students commence FULL school week days.
School Fees
Thank you to the families who have returned their payment plans.
Payment plans must be completed each year.
The options are fortnightly (20 payments) or monthly (10 payments) for direct debit from a bank account.
For credit cards, monthly payments are the only option.
The amounts on the table for payment plans do not include camp.
On receipt of the payment plans, if camps are to be included, the amount for camp will be added to the base amounts shown in the table.
Please supply email address and your mobile number. You will receive an email with confirmation of payment details.
Completed forms must be sent to the office in the envelope provided as soon as possible.
If you have any queries please email me marym@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Mary Milione
Bursar
Thank you to the families who have returned their payment plans.
Payment plans must be completed each year.
The options are fortnightly (20 payments) or monthly (10 payments) for direct debit from a bank account.
For credit cards, monthly payments are the only option.
The amounts on the table for payment plans do not include camp.
On receipt of the payment plans, if camps are to be included, the amount for camp will be added to the base amounts shown in the table.
Please supply email address and your mobile number. You will receive an email with confirmation of payment details.
Completed forms must be sent to the office in the envelope provided as soon as possible.
If you have any queries please email me marym@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Mary Milione
Bursar
Student Awards
WEEK 5
PGR
PPV Jack for being a great independent worker. Keep it up Jack!
PVL Jonah for always using his beautiful manners in the classroom. Well done, Jonah!
Xavier for always remembering his manners in the classroom and on the yard. Well done, Xavier!
1B Jack D for always being a respectful and responsible student, and for always trying his best when completing tasks
1LB Sophie G for moving outside of her comfort zone in Maths by challenging herself and applying new strategies to her learning. Keep up the great work Sophie!
1Mc Loukas for being such a sweet and caring member of 1Mc. Loukas looks after his classmates and prays for them during our class prayer time. Thank you Loukas!
2C
2CB Evie for the great effort she puts into all subject areas and further improvement she has shown throughout the semester. Also for the respect she shows to others.
2F Ollie L for working hard in writing this year and making a huge improvement! What a star!
Maisie F for being a respectful learner who works so well with others and is constantly trying to improve in writing. Fantastic.
3JT Asha P for her detailed poster on 'Liquids' when learning about The States of Matter.
3MT Chloe for working hard in reading and writing and making some amazing improvements this year. You should be very proud!
4C
4TC
4ZM Greatest students of 2019. This award is presented to Lena for developing such productive work habits and always showing a positive demeanour in class as this demonstrates good modelling for other students.
5AO
5CW
5T
6AM 6AM for all the efforts, persistence and determination you bring to your school work. What an exciting term this is - your final term of Primary School!
6P Antonio for his focus and effort in maths problem-solving sessions.
6W
WEEK 6
PGR
PPV Zoe for being a fabulous class member who is hard working and interested in her learning.
PVL Chiara for always being a kind and caring member of Prep VL.
Juliet for being a good friend to others in Prep VL.
1B Amelia for working so hard to use expression when reading, and for always demonstrating respectful and responsible behaviour
1LB Emma for showing persistence and determination with her personal learning goal to improve the overall standard of her writing by regularly seeking feedback and applying it. Amazing effort Emma!
1Mc Harley for thinking outside of the box. Harley's ideas and perspectives are original and unique, which helps to make our learning time even more fun!
2C
2CB Felix for his enjoyment in his learning in all areas of the curriculum. Also for being a great friend to others in the class and assisting anyone who needs help, particularly with technology.
2F Nicholas C for his hard work both at home and school to continue improving his learning with a smile on his face! You are doing amazing things!
Lillian M for your kindness and care for others. You always pray for those around you during prayer and are always wanting to share love around you. What a great role model you are for others!
3JT Maxwell S for his detailed poster on 'Gases' when learning about The States of Matter.
3MT Nahla for always wanting to learn and do work at home and at school. Outstanding attitude to her learning.
4C
4TC
4ZM
5AO
5CW
5T
6AM Michael for an amazing week of applying himself to all set tasks. You have worked with such focus and dedication and managed your time to complete tasks. Keep it up!
6P Sienna for the excellent effort she always puts into her book club work
6W
WEEK 5
PGR
PPV Jack for being a great independent worker. Keep it up Jack!
PVL Jonah for always using his beautiful manners in the classroom. Well done, Jonah!
Xavier for always remembering his manners in the classroom and on the yard. Well done, Xavier!
1B Jack D for always being a respectful and responsible student, and for always trying his best when completing tasks
1LB Sophie G for moving outside of her comfort zone in Maths by challenging herself and applying new strategies to her learning. Keep up the great work Sophie!
1Mc Loukas for being such a sweet and caring member of 1Mc. Loukas looks after his classmates and prays for them during our class prayer time. Thank you Loukas!
2C
2CB Evie for the great effort she puts into all subject areas and further improvement she has shown throughout the semester. Also for the respect she shows to others.
2F Ollie L for working hard in writing this year and making a huge improvement! What a star!
Maisie F for being a respectful learner who works so well with others and is constantly trying to improve in writing. Fantastic.
3JT Asha P for her detailed poster on 'Liquids' when learning about The States of Matter.
3MT Chloe for working hard in reading and writing and making some amazing improvements this year. You should be very proud!
4C
4TC
4ZM Greatest students of 2019. This award is presented to Lena for developing such productive work habits and always showing a positive demeanour in class as this demonstrates good modelling for other students.
5AO
5CW
5T
6AM 6AM for all the efforts, persistence and determination you bring to your school work. What an exciting term this is - your final term of Primary School!
6P Antonio for his focus and effort in maths problem-solving sessions.
6W
WEEK 6
PGR
PPV Zoe for being a fabulous class member who is hard working and interested in her learning.
PVL Chiara for always being a kind and caring member of Prep VL.
Juliet for being a good friend to others in Prep VL.
1B Amelia for working so hard to use expression when reading, and for always demonstrating respectful and responsible behaviour
1LB Emma for showing persistence and determination with her personal learning goal to improve the overall standard of her writing by regularly seeking feedback and applying it. Amazing effort Emma!
1Mc Harley for thinking outside of the box. Harley's ideas and perspectives are original and unique, which helps to make our learning time even more fun!
2C
2CB Felix for his enjoyment in his learning in all areas of the curriculum. Also for being a great friend to others in the class and assisting anyone who needs help, particularly with technology.
2F Nicholas C for his hard work both at home and school to continue improving his learning with a smile on his face! You are doing amazing things!
Lillian M for your kindness and care for others. You always pray for those around you during prayer and are always wanting to share love around you. What a great role model you are for others!
3JT Maxwell S for his detailed poster on 'Gases' when learning about The States of Matter.
3MT Nahla for always wanting to learn and do work at home and at school. Outstanding attitude to her learning.
4C
4TC
4ZM
5AO
5CW
5T
6AM Michael for an amazing week of applying himself to all set tasks. You have worked with such focus and dedication and managed your time to complete tasks. Keep it up!
6P Sienna for the excellent effort she always puts into her book club work
6W
Messages, Reminders and Dates
Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information
Tuesday 19th November
★ Blessing of the Mercy Building
Thursday 21st November
★ Prep 2020 Transition Morning (3 of 3)
Monday 25th November
★ Band End of Year Music Concert -Marcellin College 7pm
Thursday 28th November
★ Choir and selected Band students- Christmas Concert at Rosanna Views Aged Care
Friday 29th November
★ St Martin's Carnival Sports Day
Monday 2nd December
★ PGR and PPV Class Mass
Thursday 5th December*
★ Year 2 Excursion
Friday 6th December
★ Year 6 BIG DAY OUT
Monday 9th December
★ Parent Helper Morning Tea GECCO 11.10am-11.50am
Thursday 12th December
★ Carols Night
Monday 16th December
★ Year 6 Graduation Mass 11am
★ Year 6 Students only Finish at 1pm
★ Change Over Day Prep - Year 5 students at 2pm
★ Year 6 Graduation Dinner 6.30pm
Tuesday 17th December
★ Last day of Term 4
★ End of Year Whole School Mass 9.15am
★ Students Dismissed at 1pm
*Change of date
PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWSFEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS
Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information
Tuesday 19th November
★ Blessing of the Mercy Building
Thursday 21st November
★ Prep 2020 Transition Morning (3 of 3)
Monday 25th November
★ Band End of Year Music Concert -Marcellin College 7pm
Thursday 28th November
★ Choir and selected Band students- Christmas Concert at Rosanna Views Aged Care
Friday 29th November
★ St Martin's Carnival Sports Day
Monday 2nd December
★ PGR and PPV Class Mass
Thursday 5th December*
★ Year 2 Excursion
Friday 6th December
★ Year 6 BIG DAY OUT
Monday 9th December
★ Parent Helper Morning Tea GECCO 11.10am-11.50am
Thursday 12th December
★ Carols Night
Monday 16th December
★ Year 6 Graduation Mass 11am
★ Year 6 Students only Finish at 1pm
★ Change Over Day Prep - Year 5 students at 2pm
★ Year 6 Graduation Dinner 6.30pm
Tuesday 17th December
★ Last day of Term 4
★ End of Year Whole School Mass 9.15am
★ Students Dismissed at 1pm
*Change of date
PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWSFEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS
OSHClub News
OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm.
Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au
Please read the newsletter for activity information.
OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm.
Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au
Please read the newsletter for activity information.
Parish News
St Martin of Tours Youth Group - ACYF Fundraiser
Over the next 3 weeks the Youth will be holding a Sausage sizzle and Bake Sale to help raise money for our trip to the ACYF in Perth. We will be holding a Sausage Sizzle on the 24th of November after 10am Mass on Sunday just outside the Church, and on the Sunday following on the 1st of December we will be holding a Bake Sale after 10am Mass as well. If any members of St Martin’s school community would like to aid in our bake sale, any donations of desserts and baked goods for the fundraiser with a list of their ingredients would be greatly appreciated.
Dear Friends,
You are warmly invited to attend Mass next Wednesday – 20th November 2019 at 12 noon in the St. Mary MacKillop of the Cross Chapel at Australian Catholic University, 8 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
This Mass is to pray for Persecuted Christians around the world.
There is a flyer in the front foyer of the church for further information.
RSVP not essential but gratefully received.
Message from the Archbishop
St Vincent de Paul are on the ground throughout our communities providing support in those life-giving ways that people need in times of disaster and tragedy. May I encourage our people of Melbourne and beyond to support the Vinnies Bushfire Appeal through www.vinnies.org.au
PARISH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING—SUNDAY 8th DECEMBER 2019 11.15 am in the GECCO.
Please note this date. Our Annual General Meeting will be held in the GECCO (school hall) on Sunday 8th December. All parishioners are encouraged to attend. All parish groups are invited to present a report at the AGM. This report can be a written or oral presentation on your group’s activities. Written reports should be no more than 250 words (half a page) while any presentation at the AGM should be 5 minutes or less. If you wish to present a report on the activities of a parish group, please contact or send your report to the Parish office by Wednesday 4th December 2019.
St Martin of Tours Youth Group - ACYF Fundraiser
Over the next 3 weeks the Youth will be holding a Sausage sizzle and Bake Sale to help raise money for our trip to the ACYF in Perth. We will be holding a Sausage Sizzle on the 24th of November after 10am Mass on Sunday just outside the Church, and on the Sunday following on the 1st of December we will be holding a Bake Sale after 10am Mass as well. If any members of St Martin’s school community would like to aid in our bake sale, any donations of desserts and baked goods for the fundraiser with a list of their ingredients would be greatly appreciated.
Dear Friends,
You are warmly invited to attend Mass next Wednesday – 20th November 2019 at 12 noon in the St. Mary MacKillop of the Cross Chapel at Australian Catholic University, 8 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
This Mass is to pray for Persecuted Christians around the world.
There is a flyer in the front foyer of the church for further information.
RSVP not essential but gratefully received.
Message from the Archbishop
St Vincent de Paul are on the ground throughout our communities providing support in those life-giving ways that people need in times of disaster and tragedy. May I encourage our people of Melbourne and beyond to support the Vinnies Bushfire Appeal through www.vinnies.org.au
PARISH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING—SUNDAY 8th DECEMBER 2019 11.15 am in the GECCO.
Please note this date. Our Annual General Meeting will be held in the GECCO (school hall) on Sunday 8th December. All parishioners are encouraged to attend. All parish groups are invited to present a report at the AGM. This report can be a written or oral presentation on your group’s activities. Written reports should be no more than 250 words (half a page) while any presentation at the AGM should be 5 minutes or less. If you wish to present a report on the activities of a parish group, please contact or send your report to the Parish office by Wednesday 4th December 2019.
A Note From Meg
Dear Parents and Carers, Term 4 has always been my favourite term. I think there’s something about the frantic nature of the finishing up of one year and beginning to plan for the new one that has always appealed to me. This year is proving no different!
Here’s a summary of what we’ve been up to over the last two weeks.
● 5AO Class Mass
● 3JT received the Sacrament of Reconciliation
● Year 4 excursion to Western Treatment Plant
● Prep students celebrated Grandparents Day
● 33 Lucky students attended the YABBA awards
● 6AM Class Mass
● Dental Health Van visited the school
● PVL Class Mass
● Tours Students celebrated their Term 3 win with a Casual Clothes Day
● St Martin’s hosted a Junior Chess Tournament
● All Saints Day Years 3-6 School Mass
And here’s a summary of what we’ve got coming up between now and the final bell! Please remember to check Compass regularly to make sure you keep up-to-date with all the events coming up. There certainly is a lot and I’m sure you don’t miss out on anything!
SPIRIT OF ST MARTIN’S WEEK
We will start our Spirit of St Martin’s Week with our Feast Day Whole School Mass on Monday 11th November at 9:15am. Our week will finish with our PFA organised Whole School Colour Run on the afternoon of Friday 15th November. Our school leaders are busy organising other events for the week to make it a fun week for everyone. More details will follow.
BLESSING AND OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE MERCY BUILDING
On Tuesday 19th November, our whole community is invited to attend the Blessing and Official Opening of The Mercy Building. Archbishop Peter Comensoli will be performing the Blessing and together he, and Anthony Carbines, MLA for Ivanhoe, will formally open the building. We ask everyone planning on attending to be on bottom yard by 9:45am for a 10am start. Please click here for invite details.
ST MARTIN’S ANNUAL SPORTS CARNIVAL
On Friday 29th November we will be holding our Annual Sports Carnival. This year it will be held at the Beverley Road Oval, Beverley Road, Heidelberg. Activities will take place between 12pm and 3.30pm. Please note students will be dismissed from Beverley Road Oval. If you are unable to collect your child/ children please notify the school via the Compass event.
CAROLS NIGHT - SAVE THE DATE
This year’s Carols Night will be on Thursday 12th December. More details will follow.
PARENTS & FRIENDS ASSOCIATION
I would like to acknowledge the efforts of all members of the PFA this year. Please note the PFA will hold a SGM (Special General Meeting) on 19th November at 7pm followed by their AGM at 7.30pm. Information has been placed on Compass and can be accessed via the PFA website
KEY DATES FOR YEAR 6 STUDENTS
4th December - All Chromebooks, chargers and cases to be returned to school for inspection
6th December - Year 6 Big Day Out
10th December - All Chromebooks, chargers and cases collected
16th December - Year 6 Graduation Mass 11am
Year 6 students farewelled by the school 1pm
Year 6 Graduation Dinner
PREP 2020
Prep Teachers for 2020 will again be Lisa Philp and Donna Vincent, Leslie van Loggerenberg, and Andrea Getson and Dinesha Rajasingam. During the month of November, we shall be conducting our Prep Transition (Orientation) sessions and on Friday 15th November we will have the Prep 2020 Parent Welcome Dinner in the COMMUNITY CENTRE. This will be a great opportunity for parents to get to know one another in readiness for the next 7 years that they will share.
Prep 2020 information letters have been sent home to all our Prep families. Please read Prep 2020 News for a brief summary of dates to mark on your calendar.
2020 KEY DATES
Important School Dates for Term 1
29th and 30th January Year 1-6 Testing Days: students will be allocated a 3 hour block on one of these days
Please note further information regarding testing dates and times will be provided later in the term.
31st January Year 1-6 Classes commence
3rd February Prep students start (half days)
4th February Beginning of the Year Whole School Mass 9:15am
26th February Ash Wednesday Whole School Mass 9:15am
29th February Prep and Year 6 Buddy Family Mass 6pm
5th March School Photos (all students to wear summer uniform)
26th March Parish/School Carnival
27th March End of Term 1
SACRAMENTAL DATES
Please note further information regarding the Sacrament Program will be provided in 2020.
Confirmation
Saturday 2nd May (11:00am and 1:30pm)
First Eucharist
Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th August
Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th August
First Reconciliation
Tuesday 13th October
Tuesday 20th October
Tuesday 27th October
SCHOOL CAMPS
Please note further information regarding the school camps will be provided in 2020.
Year 6 Camp - 27th - 29th July
Year 5 Camp - 29th - 31st July
Year 4 Camp - City Experience - 13th - 14th October
With all the happenings around our school, parents and carers are reminded to regularly check their Compass Newsfeed for updates and information.
We are St Martin's, and how fortunate are we to belong to such a great community!
Megan Williams
Acting Principal
Dear Parents and Carers, Term 4 has always been my favourite term. I think there’s something about the frantic nature of the finishing up of one year and beginning to plan for the new one that has always appealed to me. This year is proving no different!
Here’s a summary of what we’ve been up to over the last two weeks.
● 5AO Class Mass
● 3JT received the Sacrament of Reconciliation
● Year 4 excursion to Western Treatment Plant
● Prep students celebrated Grandparents Day
● 33 Lucky students attended the YABBA awards
● 6AM Class Mass
● Dental Health Van visited the school
● PVL Class Mass
● Tours Students celebrated their Term 3 win with a Casual Clothes Day
● St Martin’s hosted a Junior Chess Tournament
● All Saints Day Years 3-6 School Mass
And here’s a summary of what we’ve got coming up between now and the final bell! Please remember to check Compass regularly to make sure you keep up-to-date with all the events coming up. There certainly is a lot and I’m sure you don’t miss out on anything!
SPIRIT OF ST MARTIN’S WEEK
We will start our Spirit of St Martin’s Week with our Feast Day Whole School Mass on Monday 11th November at 9:15am. Our week will finish with our PFA organised Whole School Colour Run on the afternoon of Friday 15th November. Our school leaders are busy organising other events for the week to make it a fun week for everyone. More details will follow.
BLESSING AND OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE MERCY BUILDING
On Tuesday 19th November, our whole community is invited to attend the Blessing and Official Opening of The Mercy Building. Archbishop Peter Comensoli will be performing the Blessing and together he, and Anthony Carbines, MLA for Ivanhoe, will formally open the building. We ask everyone planning on attending to be on bottom yard by 9:45am for a 10am start. Please click here for invite details.
ST MARTIN’S ANNUAL SPORTS CARNIVAL
On Friday 29th November we will be holding our Annual Sports Carnival. This year it will be held at the Beverley Road Oval, Beverley Road, Heidelberg. Activities will take place between 12pm and 3.30pm. Please note students will be dismissed from Beverley Road Oval. If you are unable to collect your child/ children please notify the school via the Compass event.
CAROLS NIGHT - SAVE THE DATE
This year’s Carols Night will be on Thursday 12th December. More details will follow.
PARENTS & FRIENDS ASSOCIATION
I would like to acknowledge the efforts of all members of the PFA this year. Please note the PFA will hold a SGM (Special General Meeting) on 19th November at 7pm followed by their AGM at 7.30pm. Information has been placed on Compass and can be accessed via the PFA website
KEY DATES FOR YEAR 6 STUDENTS
4th December - All Chromebooks, chargers and cases to be returned to school for inspection
6th December - Year 6 Big Day Out
10th December - All Chromebooks, chargers and cases collected
16th December - Year 6 Graduation Mass 11am
Year 6 students farewelled by the school 1pm
Year 6 Graduation Dinner
PREP 2020
Prep Teachers for 2020 will again be Lisa Philp and Donna Vincent, Leslie van Loggerenberg, and Andrea Getson and Dinesha Rajasingam. During the month of November, we shall be conducting our Prep Transition (Orientation) sessions and on Friday 15th November we will have the Prep 2020 Parent Welcome Dinner in the COMMUNITY CENTRE. This will be a great opportunity for parents to get to know one another in readiness for the next 7 years that they will share.
Prep 2020 information letters have been sent home to all our Prep families. Please read Prep 2020 News for a brief summary of dates to mark on your calendar.
2020 KEY DATES
Important School Dates for Term 1
29th and 30th January Year 1-6 Testing Days: students will be allocated a 3 hour block on one of these days
Please note further information regarding testing dates and times will be provided later in the term.
31st January Year 1-6 Classes commence
3rd February Prep students start (half days)
4th February Beginning of the Year Whole School Mass 9:15am
26th February Ash Wednesday Whole School Mass 9:15am
29th February Prep and Year 6 Buddy Family Mass 6pm
5th March School Photos (all students to wear summer uniform)
26th March Parish/School Carnival
27th March End of Term 1
SACRAMENTAL DATES
Please note further information regarding the Sacrament Program will be provided in 2020.
Confirmation
Saturday 2nd May (11:00am and 1:30pm)
First Eucharist
Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th August
Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th August
First Reconciliation
Tuesday 13th October
Tuesday 20th October
Tuesday 27th October
SCHOOL CAMPS
Please note further information regarding the school camps will be provided in 2020.
Year 6 Camp - 27th - 29th July
Year 5 Camp - 29th - 31st July
Year 4 Camp - City Experience - 13th - 14th October
With all the happenings around our school, parents and carers are reminded to regularly check their Compass Newsfeed for updates and information.
We are St Martin's, and how fortunate are we to belong to such a great community!
Megan Williams
Acting Principal
The Mercy Building -Blessing and Official Opening
On Tuesday 19th November, our whole community is invited to attend the Blessing and Official Opening of The Mercy Building. Archbishop Peter Comensoli will be performing the Blessing and together he, and Anthony Carbines, MLA for Ivanhoe, will formally open the building. We ask everyone planning on attending to be on bottom yard by 9:45am for a 10am start.
On Tuesday 19th November, our whole community is invited to attend the Blessing and Official Opening of The Mercy Building. Archbishop Peter Comensoli will be performing the Blessing and together he, and Anthony Carbines, MLA for Ivanhoe, will formally open the building. We ask everyone planning on attending to be on bottom yard by 9:45am for a 10am start.
Year 3 Reconciliation
3JT Reconciliation
On Tuesday 22nd October, the 3JT students celebrated their First Reconciliation. The beautiful service was celebrated with the help of Father Michael and Father Lenin. We thank them both for their patient and kind manner with the students.
The service was linked closely to the scripture story of The Lost Coin. The students responded enthusiastically to this gospel story through an ‘echo mime’.
The parents and families were also very supportive and made the night special for their children.
The Year 3 teachers would like to thank Marita Anderson and the many staff members that came along to support the students too.
3JT Reconciliation
On Tuesday 22nd October, the 3JT students celebrated their First Reconciliation. The beautiful service was celebrated with the help of Father Michael and Father Lenin. We thank them both for their patient and kind manner with the students.
The service was linked closely to the scripture story of The Lost Coin. The students responded enthusiastically to this gospel story through an ‘echo mime’.
The parents and families were also very supportive and made the night special for their children.
The Year 3 teachers would like to thank Marita Anderson and the many staff members that came along to support the students too.
Wellbeing Wednesday in the Library
We have had two fantastic lunchtime wellbeing sessions in the library. Last week we talked about having an attitude of GRATITUDE. Actively practicing gratitude for both children and adults can have a huge positive impact on both our brain and our lives. Gratitude has the power to shift our focus from what is lacking in our life or what is going wrong to the abundance that is already present. We have so much to be thankful for if we take time to notice, and it’s often the little things! Do you practice gratitude? There are so many ways we can do this. Sharing something everyone is grateful for around the dinner table, starting a gratitude journal or jar as well as many apps to record or photograph things you are grateful for. If you are stuck for ideas here is a great prompt for you and your family…
What are you grateful for that your body can do?
Who are you grateful for in your life and why?
What are you grateful for about school?
What part of your day are you grateful for?
What sounds are you grateful for?
What talent do you have that you are grateful for?
What beautiful things that you can see are you grateful for?
What are you grateful for about Spring?
What lesson are you grateful for?
SPRINKLING SOME KINDNESS
This week we spread some kindness and students wrote kindness/thank you notes to others. When we do this it not only fills up the receivers bucket but ours too! We also did the 10 mindful movements, which focuses on breath and movement in a fun way. Perhaps there is someone you could reach out and thank, it’s the little things that often mean so much!
We have had two fantastic lunchtime wellbeing sessions in the library. Last week we talked about having an attitude of GRATITUDE. Actively practicing gratitude for both children and adults can have a huge positive impact on both our brain and our lives. Gratitude has the power to shift our focus from what is lacking in our life or what is going wrong to the abundance that is already present. We have so much to be thankful for if we take time to notice, and it’s often the little things! Do you practice gratitude? There are so many ways we can do this. Sharing something everyone is grateful for around the dinner table, starting a gratitude journal or jar as well as many apps to record or photograph things you are grateful for. If you are stuck for ideas here is a great prompt for you and your family…
What are you grateful for that your body can do?
Who are you grateful for in your life and why?
What are you grateful for about school?
What part of your day are you grateful for?
What sounds are you grateful for?
What talent do you have that you are grateful for?
What beautiful things that you can see are you grateful for?
What are you grateful for about Spring?
What lesson are you grateful for?
SPRINKLING SOME KINDNESS
This week we spread some kindness and students wrote kindness/thank you notes to others. When we do this it not only fills up the receivers bucket but ours too! We also did the 10 mindful movements, which focuses on breath and movement in a fun way. Perhaps there is someone you could reach out and thank, it’s the little things that often mean so much!
Prep Grandparents Day
On Wednesday, the 23rd of October there was great excitement at school because it was Grandparents Day! The Preps invited their grandparents to visit them at school and they were very proud to introduce their grandparents to their teachers and to show them around the school. We told them why we loved them so much, sang songs and ate lots of party food. It was a great day!!!
On Wednesday, the 23rd of October there was great excitement at school because it was Grandparents Day! The Preps invited their grandparents to visit them at school and they were very proud to introduce their grandparents to their teachers and to show them around the school. We told them why we loved them so much, sang songs and ate lots of party food. It was a great day!!!
YABBA Awards
When we began studying the Young Australian Best Book Awards way back in Term 1, the vision was to culminate this learning with an opportunity to win a Golden Ticket to the award ceremony at Camberwell Girls Grammar. On Tuesday 33 lucky ticket holders went with Mrs Kent and myself to enjoy this wonderful celebration of reading. We had the most special day watching the ceremony and meeting many famous authors and illustrators. We even ran into Miss Yoemans and the students very much enjoyed seeing her again. Thanks so much to Kate Kelly and Sarah McDougall for accompanying us on the day. We all had a really fabulous time.
The winning books for each category were:
Picture Book: Seriously, Do Not Open This Book by Andy Lee and Heath McKenzie
Fiction for Younger Readers: The Bad Guys Do-You-Think-He-Saurus by Andy Blaby
Fiction for Older Readers: The 104 Storey Treehouse by Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton
Fiction for Years 7-9: Maybe by Morris Gleitzman
Yabba Awards Recollection -By Natasha B
It was finally the day of the Yabba award ceremony. Thirty three lucky students got to leave school and go to Camberwell Girls Grammar. When we arrived we were welcomed and seated in the auditorium. We started the award ceremony with a good laugh and got to know a thing or two about the authors and illustrators. We played a few games and Noah J was lucky enough to be chosen to participate in an illustrating activity on the stage.
Eventually we went out and had some morning tea and a little run around. When we were finished we entered the Camberwell Girls Grammar gymnasium and received a card that we could use to be signed by some of our favourite authors. We were also allowed to bring some books and get them signed as well. There were raffles and giveaways. Lily A and some other SMOT students won a book.
I would like to say thank you to all of the organisers, parents and especially Mrs Klaic and Mrs Kent for making this day happen.
When we began studying the Young Australian Best Book Awards way back in Term 1, the vision was to culminate this learning with an opportunity to win a Golden Ticket to the award ceremony at Camberwell Girls Grammar. On Tuesday 33 lucky ticket holders went with Mrs Kent and myself to enjoy this wonderful celebration of reading. We had the most special day watching the ceremony and meeting many famous authors and illustrators. We even ran into Miss Yoemans and the students very much enjoyed seeing her again. Thanks so much to Kate Kelly and Sarah McDougall for accompanying us on the day. We all had a really fabulous time.
The winning books for each category were:
Picture Book: Seriously, Do Not Open This Book by Andy Lee and Heath McKenzie
Fiction for Younger Readers: The Bad Guys Do-You-Think-He-Saurus by Andy Blaby
Fiction for Older Readers: The 104 Storey Treehouse by Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton
Fiction for Years 7-9: Maybe by Morris Gleitzman
Yabba Awards Recollection -By Natasha B
It was finally the day of the Yabba award ceremony. Thirty three lucky students got to leave school and go to Camberwell Girls Grammar. When we arrived we were welcomed and seated in the auditorium. We started the award ceremony with a good laugh and got to know a thing or two about the authors and illustrators. We played a few games and Noah J was lucky enough to be chosen to participate in an illustrating activity on the stage.
Eventually we went out and had some morning tea and a little run around. When we were finished we entered the Camberwell Girls Grammar gymnasium and received a card that we could use to be signed by some of our favourite authors. We were also allowed to bring some books and get them signed as well. There were raffles and giveaways. Lily A and some other SMOT students won a book.
I would like to say thank you to all of the organisers, parents and especially Mrs Klaic and Mrs Kent for making this day happen.