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- PRINCIPAL'S REFLECTION
- NEWS FROM THE PRINCIPAL'S DESK
- NEWS FROM THE ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL'S DESK
- NEWS FROM THE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION COORDINATOR'S DESK
- WEEKLY AWARD RECIPIENTS
- PRINCIPAL'S AWARD
- ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL'S AWARD
- HAPPY BIRTHDAY
- RESPIRATORY ILLNESS REPORTING FORM
- NEWS FROM THE OFFICE
- NEWS FROM THE PARENTS & FRIEND'S ASSOCIATION
- NEWS FROM THE PARISH
- COMMUNITY NEWS
Dear Parents and friends,
To Live Life to the Full-Mental Health in Australia Today
Social Justice Sunday August 30 2020
In a tradition reaching back to 1940, the Australian Catholic Bishops release major social justice statements each year, in time for Social Justice Sunday. Through this tradition they contribute to the development of local Catholic Social Teaching. The statements encourage the Catholic community to reflect and act on social, economic and ecological issues. This year, they remind us of the social dimension of the mission of the Church and encourage faith communities, governments and each one of us, to make mental health a priority. It is a timely message in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic which is affecting many members of our schools, parishes, and communities.
St Brigid’s Catholic Primary School, as a strong faith community comprising students, parents and staff, is challenged at this time to recognise the ongoing and growing importance of mental health issues. Those members of our community and families who depend on us for support and understanding, demand increasing care and knowledge in this area. We are called to reach out to those people in our lives, young and old, with acceptance, care and healing.
This Sunday, as parents and teachers, responsible for the wellbeing of our children, students, and others in our care, we might reflect on the words of the Bishop of Australia:
'Our society tends to draw away from, or to push away, those who confront us with frailties and limitations. This is completely at odds with the story of Jesus who takes on the frailty of the human condition and "draws near to those who are sick or who have disabilities, those who are marginalised or despised”. We should be reminded that those living with mental ill-health are part of the Body of Christ, and share equally in Jesus’ promise of the fullness of life (John 10:10).'
Yours in Faith, Justice and Learning
PLAYGROUND PROJECT - COMPLETED
A huge thank you to the P&F who donated $15,000 towards the construction of an additional outdoor learning and brain break space. This space now features a play hut, twista, two large outdoor all weather tables, soft-fall and synthetic grass.
The play hut allows students to play inside, sit on it and climb to the peak of the roof. The ropes and beads add sensory and tactile activities. Students have the opportunity to develop balance, strength, coordination and social play.
The twista encourages students to use centrifugal force by leaning out from the centre. Spinning strengthens their limbs and sense of balance.
The two large outdoor learning tables are fantastic for collaborative learning, explicit group instruction, critical and creative thinking and social interaction.
This space was definitely the place to be this week!
RAINBOW MUFTI DAY FOR ST VINCENT de PAUL
Such an explosion of colour descended on St Brigid's on Tuesday. Thank you to the SRC, Hudson and Mrs Arthur-Worsop for coordinating this mission effort. We raised $487.40 for St Vincent de Paul.
Congratulations to the best dressed in each class:
| Kindergarten | Sparsha |
| Year 1 | Hugh |
| Year 2 | Isabella |
| Year 3 | Hamilton |
| Year 4 | Sam S |
| Year 5 | Dalton |
| Year 6G | Ava |
| Year 6W | Leki |
SCHOOL ATTENDANCE – DIOCESAN POLICY
It is a condition of enrolment that you send your child to school every day. A small number of absences may be justified if your child has to:
- go to a special religious ceremony;
- is required to attend a serious and/or urgent family situation (e.g. a funeral); and
- is too sick to go to school or has an infectious illness.
If your child is absent for any of the reasons not mentioned above, then it may be deemed an unjustified absence not approved by the school.
Students are expected to attend all regular school activities, including sport. Do not keep your child away from school for the following:
- birthdays;
- shopping;
- minding other children;
- routine check-ups or care such as haircuts;
- minor family events; and
- sleeping in.
Parents and carers are encouraged not to withdraw their children from school for family holidays. Families should try to arrange holidays during school vacations. If the family holiday is planned during school time, the family need to speak with the Principal in advance and complete an Application for Extended Leave.
Medical and other health appointments for your child should be made either before or after school or during the school holidays.
VINNIES EARN AND RETURN HOUSE COLOUR COMPETITION
The final Vinnies earn and return drive for Term 2 will take place on Tuesday 8 September 2020. Please ensure you send to school the correct containers to avoid extra recycling and contamination of the containers. Most eligible containers between 150ml and 3 litres are accepted but they must be in good condition (not be crushed or broken), empty and have the label attached.
| GOOD TO GO | NO GO |
| Water bottles | Wine and spirit bottles |
| Glass bottles - soft drink, beer | Milk bottles |
| Cans - soft drink, beer | Detergent bottles |
| Juice boxes or poppers | Yoghurt containers |
| Juice bottles over 1 litre | |
| Cordial bottles | |
| Food waste |
Is your container eligible? It can be confusing to know what’s eligible, which is why Vinnies has a container database. Visit the website below.
HOW TO FILL OUT THE COVID-19 REPORTING GOOGLE FORM
PREMIER'S READING CHALLENGE
RAINBOW MUFTI DAY for our LOCAL ST VINCENT de PAUL CONFERENCE
Thank you to everyone for getting into the spirit of the Rainbow Mufti Day and for giving so generously to a wortthwhile cause - The St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal. There will be many people benefitting from our fundraiser.
| CLASS | Amount Raised |
| Kindergarten | $110.00 |
| Year 1 | $55.00 |
| Year 2 | $44.00 |
| Year 3 | $35.20 |
| Year4 | $63.20 |
| Year 5 | $34.00 |
| Year 6G | $63.00 |
| Year 6W | $29.00 |
| Sale of drinks on pizza day | $54.00 |
| TOTAL | $487.40 |
SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM - CONFIRMATION 2020
Confirmation sessions 6 pm at St John Vianney Co-Cathedral, Fairy Meadow
Session 1: Wednesday 2/9/2020 or Thursday 3/9/2020
Session 2: Wednesday 9/9/2020 or Thursday 10/9/2020
Session 3: Wednesday 16/9/2020 or Thursday 17/9/2020
Session 4: Wednesday 23/9/2020 or Thursday 24/9/2020
Due to COVID-19 regulations the Confirmation ceremonies will look different this year. COnfirmation will be celebrated with a Liturgy of the Word. The ceremonies will be held in the first week of November. The final dates will be presented to you early in the Confirmation Programme.
I RECOMMEND:
The Revolution of Tenderness - A Podcast on Anchor
By the Office for Social Justice, Australia
AND SO WE PRAY:
Jesus, you invite us all into the fullness of life.
May we support one another to flourish in body, mind and spirit. Strengthen our commitment to ensure that nobody falls through gaps in our systems of care.
People call you mad!
Help us to recognise you in those who suffer mental ill-health today.
Show us how to eliminate stigmatisation of mental ill-health from our parishes, schools, communities and organisations.
You drew near to those who were suffering in body and mind.
May we too feel your nearness when we struggle with mental health challenges.
May we be one as members of Your Body.
You invite us to share in your ministry of love and true compassion.
May we be empowered by your Spirit to reach out to all people in need. May we build communities of welcome and inclusion. Amen
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR THE CARE OF CREATION AND SEASON OF CREATION
The World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation is held each year on 1 September. This day marks the beginning of the Season of Creation, an annual event that encourages prayer and action for our common home which runs from 1 September through to 4 October. The celebration of the Season of Creation is especially relevant this year, in light of the coronovirus pandemic.
The Dicastery for Integral Human Development is currently engaged in work to develop a comprehensive response to the pandemic, addressing both the immediate needs of those who suffer today and the long-term need to create more just societies. As Pope Francis said during his General Audience of 22 April 2020, on the 50th Earth Day: "As the tragic coronovirus pandemic has taught us, we can overcome global challenges only by showing solidarity with one another and embracing the most vulnerable in our midst."
AND SO WE PRAY:
SUNDAY REFLECTION:
| Sunday 30 August 2020 |
22 SUNDAY in ORDINARY TIME Take Up Your Cross Jesus told his Disciples that he would suffer and die and then be raised to life. But Peter said, "This must never happen to you." Jesus said to him, "If any of you want to come with me, you must forget yourself, carry your cross and follow me." |
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| Sunday 6 September 2020 |
23 SUNDAY in ORDINARY TIME The Cost of Discipleship Jesus said, "If your brother offends you, go to him alone and talk about it. If he listens to you, you have won back your brother. If he does not listen, take one or two others to speak with him. If he still refuses to listen, ask the community to speak with him." |
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SAVE THE DATE
| Tuesday 8 September | Sausage Sizzle and house colour Vinnies container competition |
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| Monday 21 - Friday 25 September | Vinnies Van Food Appeal |
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PODCAST SERIES - RIPPLES
Ripples is a PODCAST developed for staff and parent's on-going spiritual formation. It seeks to offer a space where people can draw on the wisdom of a series of guest speakers and can experience some treasured stillness through meditation.
Practices like these create a ripple effect. They have the potential to impact the way we respond to family, friends, colleagues, to creation and to our loving God. Come and enjoy some Inspired Voices and Treasured Stillness.
The Ripples Podcast is now available
Congratulations to the following students on receiving their awards during the last fortnight.
Week 5- Term 3
| CLASS | LEARNING AWARD | LEADER OF THE WEEK |
| Kindergarten | Flynn D | Abigail B |
| Year 1 | Charlie E | Lachlan C |
| Year 2 | Rhiley A | Emma L |
| Year 3 | Hamilton Y | Lachlan E |
| Year 4 | Emily V | Oliver E |
| Year 5 | Thomas S | Edwina J |
| Year 6G | Kip P | Max H |
| Year 6W | Sebastian S | Max D |
Week 6 - Term 3
| CLASS | CATHOLIC VALUES AWARD | LEADER OF THE WEEK |
| Kindergarten | Sparsha V | Luna-Belle G |
| Year 1 | Rafael S | Arthur R |
| Year 2 | Briella I | Theo D B |
| Year 3 | Anthony St A | Rafael M |
| Year 4 | Flynn S | Tully D |
| Year 5 | Addison W | Starrsi D |
| Year 6G | Mia A | Tilly B |
| Year 6W | Atticus C | Alina L |
PRINCIPAL'S AWARD FOR WEEK 6
Considered an honour of the highest order, the Principal's Award celebrates outstanding achievement by a student in faith, learning and other contributions to school life. Congratulations to:
| CLASS | STUDENT |
| Year 2 | Bethany M |
| Year 5 | Charlotte W |
Congratulations to the following student who received an Assistant Principal's Award. Well done!
| CLASS | STUDENT |
| Year 1 | Charlie E-B |
| Year 1 | Hugh S |
| Year 4 | Oliver E |
| Year 5 | Luca D-B |
| Year 5 | Addison W |
Happy Birthday to the following students.
We hope you have a great birthday!
| Year 3 | Year 5 |
| Anthony S-A | Addison W |
GOOGLE FORM
Your support in ensuring the health and safety of the St Brigid’s Community during this global pandemic is evident in the growing number of students who are either staying home with respiratory illness and/or being tested for COVID-19. We really appreciate your vigilance with this.
It is compulsory for us to keep a detailed register of the process from symptoms to medical clearance, and so, it is crucial we know when your child develops symptoms BEFORE they are tested for COVID-19. To make this easier for you to communicate all the information that we need, we have developed a google form that will only take 30 seconds to complete and submit.
This google form can be found on the St Brigid’s website, as a link in the Brigid Bulletin and by clicking the link in the COMPASS newsfeed.
Please complete it any day or time of the week, including weekends. The information will automatically come to me and Mrs Benoit.
EXPLAINING STUDENT ABSENCES IN COMPASS
A reminder to please log into your parent portal and provide a detailed explanation for any full day absences for your child/children. If you have completed the Respiratory Illness google form, you will still be required to enter an explanation into Compass.
Please do not email the school office with your absence explanation as a detailed explanation in your Child's Compass portal will be sufficient.
You do not need to enter partial absences in Compass as this will be done from the school office when the student arrives or departs.
LATE ARRIVALS - if your child arrives after 8:50am the partial absence will be entered as unexplained. As parents are not coming on site of a morning you will need to send an email or phone the office to explain the late arrival.
If you have any questions regarding any of this information please contact the school office.
Australian Parents Council
Please find below a link to the online newsletter for the Australian Parents Council.
Get your family together, children and adults and start practising for the Zoom Trivia night on Friday 18 September 2020. More details to come.
2020 YEAR BOOK COVER COMPETITION
As the saying goes, 'you've got to be in it, to win it'. So why not turn your creative hand and submit an entry into our annual Year Book Cover competition. Details are below in the flyer.
A huge thank you to the parents who volunteer to keep our grass mowed and the outside of the school tidy. Your efforts not only add to the overall presentation of St Brigid's but saves the school lots of money, which is diverted back into the purchasing of learning resources.
UPCOMING DATES FOR THE MOWING GROUP
| UPCOMING DATES | MOWER ONE |
MOWER TWO |
| 12 September 2020 | Anthony Petre | Paul Rustomji |
| 10 October 2020 | Jason Shoebridge | Fabrizio Curcio |
| 24 October 2020 | Mark Eckermann | Darrell Mitchell |
| 14 November 2020 | Gary Humphrey | Mick Zanella |
| 28 November 2020 | Brett Shrimpton | Neo Arian |
| 12 December 2020 | Daniel St Archangel | Paul Brogan |
| 19 December 2020 | Jeremy Crook | TBC |
CANTEEN NEWS
The canteen will remain closed until further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
WANT TO BECOME MORE INVOLVED IN THE LIFE OF THE SCHOOL?
Are you interested in volunteering for P&F events? Would you like to help out the wonderful St Brigid’s Community but don’t know where to start? We’d love to have you on board.
Drop the P&F a line and we’d be very happy to get you involved in events or as a coordinator. We can also team you up with an existing volunteer to help share the work and learn the ropes. Email us at pandf@sbgdow.catholic.edu.au
ST BRIGID'S PARISH GWYNNEVILLE
WEEKLY PARISH BULLETIN
ST BRIGID'S MASS TIMES
| Saturday | 5:30pm Vigil - Please ring the Parish Office to register |
| Sunday | 9:00am - Please ring the Parish Office to register |
| Thursday | 9:30am - Please ring the Parish Office to register |
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