Newsletter 25 October 2023
Principal's Message
After more than forty years of service to schools and parishes in both the Sandhurst and Sale Dioceses, Mr Phil Rebbechi is looking for a change of pace. Having had the privilege of working with Phil both at a Diocesan and school level, I know that he leaves with many accomplishments.
Earlier in his career, Phil was instrumental in the rollout of technology as this became a 'new area of learning'. He supported systems, trained staff and built curriculum knowledge across the schools in the Diocese. But perhaps even more than this, Phil has exemplified his deep sense of faith and his adherence to the Principles of Catholic Social Teaching.
Phil is a highly regarded and deeply respected educator who has made many friends in his professional journey. We will miss Phil's quick wit, knowledge, wisdom, passion for education and kindness. We thank Phil for his unending willingness to go above and beyond in the true spirit of service to our communities and the impact he has had on so many generations of children.
We wish Phil a happy retirement with lots of adventures along the way with his family, particularly little Louie, his grandson.
Bec Kollaris, Principal
Religious Education News
St James Community like other Catholic institutions is guided by the 'Principles of Catholic Social Teaching' which in turn have come from the values of Jesus' teachings within the Gospels and the thousands of years of practical community life within the Tradition of the church. One important principle is that of Subsidiarity.
The Catholic aid organisation Caritas defines subsidiarity in this way:
Empowering Communities: Taking account of subsidiarity means ensuring decision-making happens at the most appropriate level, so all those affected can contribute. Larger organisations such as governments or international agencies should not abandon their responsibilities but must work in partnership with local communities and groups with an attitude of humility. Local groups have important insights into what is best for their communities. They need to have a say and to influence the outcome.
With all people including our children, we do not assume responsibilities that are within the just and fair capability of those people., but give them the room and support to make those decisions.
Lord God, we ask for all people to be encouraged to participate fully in society and to help each other be accountable for our actions. Empower your one human family to join hands on our journey of faith. Send us your spirit so we strive to foster charity and justice in our world.
Amen
Parenting Matters
Parenting can be tricky and there is no rule book! To support each other in this space, we are introducing a new section in the newsletter with a focus on resourcing parents with up to date, relevant and reputable resources. In addition to this, there is also a small parent library in the school foyer. We have endeavored to source a range of books and picture story books. Please feel free to drop past and have a look. Just let us know if you'd like to borrow one of these resources.
As the conflict overseas continues, we are being responsive in our support of families. The following SCHOOL TV clip and information sheet may be useful, along with the archived clips and articles which are available to you.
If you think that we can support parents around other topics, please do not hesitate to email Bec at principal@stjamesnng.catholic.
Emergency Management
With the predication of a long hot summer, it is important that we inform our community of our Emergency Management Procedures should we need to enact our Emergency Management Plan at any time.
Our onsite evacuation point is the Red Roof on the south side of the school. Our offiste evacuation point is the Nar Nar Goon Hotel. As a part of our Management Procedures we will be conducting drills to ensure that all students have an understanding of the Plan. Further details on our Emergency Mangement will be shared with our community in the coming weeks.
Car Park Safety and Management
To ensure the safety of all students and families, at the beginning and end of each day we will be implementing the following over the coming days:
- Bollards will be put up to close off access to the staff carpark between 8.30am - 9.00am and 3.15pm - 3.45pm
We ask that parents follow the path when walking with their children and to encourage students to walk whilst moving around the car park.
Fun Food Friday
NO Fun Food Friday this week!
Grade 6 Wrap Up
Parents & Friends News
From the Office
School Fees
Final Fee Statements for 2023 have been issued to all families for Term 4. Thankyou to those who have made payment towards their school fees.
As we are approaching the end of the school year, please ensure finalising your fee account is a matter of priority. Any unpaid fees will be carried over and added to your 2024 fee account.
Payment of fees can be made directly into the school account, via EFTPOS in the office, or via Direct Debit. Direct Debit arrangements can be set up at any time and include options for fortnightly, monthly or per term payments. Please contact the office to obtain a Direct Debit form.
If you are experiencing financial hardship please contact rkollaris@stjamesnng.catholic.edu.au to have a confidential discussion.
If you hold a Pension or Health Care card, please contact the office to obtain the relevant paperwork to be completed and returned. Eligibility will then be assessed and an application for assistance to reduce your school fees will be applied for.
Updating Details
Please ensure your contact details are current and up to date. This includes contact numbers, email address, home/postal addresses and emergency contact details. If you need to update your information, please email office@stjamesnng.catholic.edu.au
Schoolzine App
This is an app that you have on your phone and allows for easy reading of the newsletter, as it customises to the screen and translates into many languages if required.
Please click the link below for the instructions on installing the app on your phone.
https://www.schoolzine.com/
As part of the installation, you will be required to enter the following 4 digit passcode -
3675
Please do not hesitate to contact the school office if you have any questions or queries.
DS Sports
DS Sports has a new contact phone number! Please call 0466 733 407 if you need to contact the service.