Dear Parents and Carers,

One of our School Improvement Goals for this year has been the development and introduction of formation days from Years 3 – 6. Formation is such an important part of our Catholic Education, and it is through these days that our children can focus on development of their personal faith and relationship with God.

Recently our Year 3 students participated in their formation morning led by Mr Buchtmann. The day focused on being a Witness, which means being able to share the word of the Gospel through our words, actions, and deeds, even if it is hard sometimes.

I asked a few Year 3 students what they learnt on the day and here are their thoughts.

Austyn – I learnt that other people can be witnesses and it is hard being a witness.

Foxx – I learnt how to be a witness.

Susannah – I learnt that being a witness is telling the truth about Jesus.

Regional Public Speaking

Last week our four of our students travelled to Taree to participate in the Regional Public Speaking Finals.  Congratulations to Miranda, Max, Susannah and Tiana who represented our school brilliantly.  Susannah and Miranda achieved Runners Up and Tiana was the Stage 3 winner.  Tiana will now represent the Manning Region in the Diocesan Public Speaking Finals in Term 4.

Polding Athletics

Congratulations to Eleanor who recently competed at the Polding Athletics Trials, representing the Diocese. Eleanor raced in the 1500 meters and ran a Personal Best. Well done, Eleanor.

ICAS Assessments

Earlier this term several of our students participated in the ICAS assessments. Congratulations to the following students who received certificates for their efforts.

 Digital Technologies

 Participation – Ben Raison

 English

 Participation – Ashlea Linehan and Kaii MacMillan

Credit – Ben Raison and Eleanor Healy

Distinction – Susannah Healy

Mel Hunt

RE News

First Holy Communion – Sunday 15th September.

Last Sunday was a special occasion for 6 members of our school community who celebrated their First Holy Communion at mass. These students have been a part of the Sacraments of Initiation program in 2024, organised through the Taree / Wingham Parish but led by Mr Buchtmann and Mrs Lapi – An.

Throughout the year Ben, Max, Isaac, Jye, Susannah, Eleanor (and Sam who completed his confirmation this year having already made his first communion) have participated in lessons for the Sacraments of Reconciliation, Confirmation and Holy Communion and celebrated these sacraments as part of the OLPH Wingham parish community.

As a school, we are very proud of these 7 students and the time and dedication they have put into becoming now full members of the Catholic Church.

This program will run again in 2025 and is available for any students who are turning 8 or older in 2025 and have been baptised in the Catholic Church. Information regarding this program in 2025 will be available via the school newsletter early next year.

More information is also available on the sacrament of Baptism for anyone who is interested, either by contacting the OLOR Taree Parish office or by speaking with Mr Buchtmann. This program can be run at any time throughout the year.

Prime Minister Award

‘Being a steward of creation’, ‘Trying your best’, ‘Speaking with kindness’ and ‘Being a responsible learner’ are some of the qualities that teachers consider when awarding ‘Prime Minister’ at our weekly assembly. It is an acknowledgement of the student’s efforts and they have the privilege of wearing the badge with honour, of suggesting a focus the school can work on, award Gotchas to other students at lunch time as well as earning Gotchas for themselves. Congratulations goes to Ava Buchannan (Week 9) and Breanna Swierczynski (Week 10). 

Mary MacKillop Award - Term 3

This award is presented to one student each term that consistently goes above and beyond to put the needs of others first. This award is founded on one of the most motivating and known sayings of Saint Mary MacKillop “never see a need without doing something about it” (1871). We present this award to someone who follows in Saint Mary’s footsteps by reaching out to the most needy and vulnerable in our school community. Congratulations goes to Matilda Robinson.

What's been happening in Year 2

Year 2 are having a busy third term. In English we have been learning all about narrative including how to structure this text type and hook the reading in the opening paragraph. Our focus in Math has been around multiplication and division and learning to problem solve by looking for key words and numbers. In Religion we are learning about the New Testament and stories and lessons of Jesus. 
The students are enjoying Music in Creative Arts and have been learning some classic tunes on the glockenspiel such as Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Ode to Joy and Hedwig's Theme. 

Mr Knoke and Mrs Wheeler 

ICAS results

Congratulations to the following students who recently particicpated in the ICAS (International Competitions and Assessments for Schools).