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Upcoming Dates
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- 3rd March: Assembly 8.30 am led by Room 6
- 4th March: Sacramental Program Parent Information Session
- 10th March: Assembly 8.30 am led by Room 14
- 15th March to 24th March: Naplan Testing Year 3 & 5
- 16th March: School Board AGM
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Event details will be updated on SchoolStream closer to the event date.
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Please check the EVENTS tab regularly and add event details directly to your calendar!
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Principal's News
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Week 4, Term 1, 2023
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This week we begin our journey into the Season of Lent and this is significant for us here at St Mary’s as it represents a time of 40 days that has fasting, special prayer and almsgiving in preparation for Easter. Discussions will happen at school with students about ‘what they can do’ during Lent in one of these areas. We hope that this message resonates that the Season of Lent encourages us to go outside of ourselves to serve others and learn what it truly means to live out the love of Jesus. What can you do as a family together during Lent?
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During the Parent Information Sessions a few weeks ago, teachers shared the classroom expectations and positive behaviours and rewards across our school for keeping the 4 R’s of The St Mary’s Way - Respect, Responsible, Resilient and Ready to Learn. Shared below is The 4 I’s Of Good Parenting an excerpt from Children Aren’t Made Of China by Wilson McCaskill.
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Interest – Invest – Identify – Inspired
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- INTEREST – We must show and action our deep interest in children. It is important to be observant of them and to notice their successes, failures, strengths, weaknesses, problems, concerns and improvements. Being interested in them helps them to be interested in themselves. Often the hardest thing is to listen. To listen to more than the things they say, but to the things they don’t say, won’t say, or can’t say. Make your children your subject of greatest interest. Be informed about them through all the different stages of their lives.
- INVEST – We must invest time in our children. They mustn’t rule the timetable of our lives and they must learn to wait and be patient. However, our lives must have sufficient time for them and their needs. There must be the time to sit with them, either at the table, in the garden, the car, or end of the bed at night and just enjoy their company. They need to feel that we have the power to stop the world and give them our undivided attention. Be it to look at a picture they’ve painted, or to listen to a story streaming out of their imagination, or a lengthy explanation of why they think ants would make good pets, giving them the time is giving them the message that they are important to us.
- IDENTIFY – We must see things from their point of view. To empathise and connect with them can be difficult. Often we are too busy trying to convert and control them and have no time to look at the world through their eyes. Shifting their perceptions and attitudes is often easier if we can first see why they have them in the first place. Using, “When I was a kid etc…” as a way of changing their thinking only creates resentment. They want us to understand what it’s like to be a kid now, in this place, at this school, at this time. Respect their point of view and work with them to create beneficial changes.
- INSPIRED – We must be inspired by them. Their actions, ideas, outcomes and above all, effort, must inspire us. Children need to know that their existence and example as children inspire us to be better adults. This does not mean we need to act out great exuberance and enthusiasm for everything they try or achieve. To do so, would only weaken them by removing their self- motivation. What it means is that we should be on the lookout for those things, large or small, that happened because of a special effort, awareness or concern. Such as getting 4 out of 10 for spelling after trying very hard, or helping a friend who was being teased, or quietly playing when you had a lot on your mind, or winning the race and congratulating those who didn’t etc. Being inspired by these things is to do more than just mention them to the child. It’s to convey a sense of pride and to let the child see how your spirits have been elevated. In other words, for them to see they have helped to make your day.
Uniform: A reminder to all families of correct Uniform to be worn at school, especially footwear. A number of children have arrived at school this week wearing coloured shoes or joggers. Plain black shoes and plain black joggers are the only accepted footwear with our school uniform. Whilst coloured stripes and white soles may be very fashionable - they are not part of our school uniform.
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Invitation to be part of our School Board and the P&F: In the coming weeks our first meetings of our school Board and the P&F will occur. I encourage all parents to consider becoming a part of these vital parent bodies. Nomination information is available on School Stream.
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Have a great weekend ahead, enjoying the lovely wet season rain.
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Prayer
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Blessed are You O Lord
who gives us life and all things.
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Lead us into repentance and
renew our lives with your grace.
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May the crosses of ashes that mark our
foreheads be a reminder that we belong to your Son.
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May our worship and prayer be sustained
throughout these days of Lent.
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I ask this through Christ our Lord.
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Religious Education News
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First Week of Lent
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Week beginning Monday 27th February
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We begin our annual Lenten Project Compassion journey by learning about Laxmi, a 16-year-old girl living in Jajarkot, a remote district in Nepal where almost half of the population live below the poverty line. Tragedy struck when Laxmi was 10 years old and her father passed away. Her father worked hard to pay for his children's education and, after losing him, Laxmi was at risk of falling further into extreme poverty.
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With the support of our partner Caritas Nepal, Laxmi joined a child's club at her school where she was encouraged to resume her education. Through the child’s club, Laxmi developed the skills and confidence to become a leader, advocating for clean water taps at her school.
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Laxmi is now excelling in her studies and working towards her dream of becoming a civil engineer. She continues to be involved in the child's club, serving as an advisor and mentoring the next generation of young leaders at her old school.
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Watch a short film about Laxmi’s story here.
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Sacramental Program
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This year, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School students will be offered the opportunity to participate in a school-based Sacramental Preparation Program, run in collaboration with St Mary’s parish. Children from Years 3 and above are able to receive the sacrament of First Communion and Reconciliation. Those who have made these sacraments in previous years can receive Confirmation. There will be a parent and student information session for the Sacramental Program on Saturday March 4th at 3pm - 4pm in the Mary MacKillop Hall.
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The Sacramental Program will run during Term 2 with lessons being held after school from 3pm-4pm on a Thursday. Key dates will be sent out for these.
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Holy Week Liturgy - 31st March
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Sacramental Program Parent Session - 4th March
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Clare Nolan Religious Education Co-ordinator
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Bombing of Darwin Ceremony
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Last Sunday, a solemn ceremony was held to mark the 81st anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin. This event is one of significance in Australia's history. On February 19, 1942 Japanese planes attacked Darwin, causing extensive damage and loss of life. The bombing of Darwin is often described as Australia's Pearl Harbor and was the largest attack ever mounted on Australian soil.
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The ceremony was held at the Cenotaph in Bicentennial Park, which stands as a memorial to those who died during the bombing. The ceremony included a minute's silence, re-enactment, laying of wreaths and speeches from dignitaries. It was a moving event and our students were honored to be a part of it.
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We would like to thank our Captains for representing St Mary's Catholic Primary School at the ceremony and for demonstrating the values of respect and remembrance that are so important to us.
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Classroom News from Room 14
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This term in Room 14 we have been as busy as bees!
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We have been getting to know each other, learning new things and setting SMART goals.
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In Grade 3/4 we have been learning about addition and subtraction. We have been learning how to partition numbers to solve addition and subtraction problems using the split strategy. We are going to continue learning other strategies over the next few weeks.
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Lent began this week on Ash Wednesday. We have been learning the significance of Ash Wednesday and reflecting on ways that we can grow closer to God during this Lenten Season. Together we set up our class prayer space for the Season of Lent.
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We have been learning how to write persuasive text. One of the texts was about whether students should or should not have to do homework. We did not all have the same opinion and we had to think of quality reasons in order to persuade others.
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Parents and Friends News
Sadly, for reasons beyond our control, we needed to postpone our first gathering for this year which was scheduled for today! We will let you know the new date and time once confirmed.
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We would love to hear from you!
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We are already planning for our upcoming Mother's Day Stall in Term 2 and other exciting events!
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Sun Safety Reminder
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As the temperature rises, it's important to remember to take proper precautions to protect ourselves from the harmful effects of the sun. Sun safety is especially important during this particularly hot time of year, and we want to remind everyone in our school community to be mindful of their exposure to the sun.
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Here are some tips to help you stay safe in the sun:
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Wear protective clothing: When spending time outdoors, try to wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat. This will help shield your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
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Use sunscreen: Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 can help protect your skin from sunburn and skin damage. Remember to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
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Seek shade: When possible, stay in the shade during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
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Stay hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and cool.
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By following these simple steps, you can help protect your skin and stay safe while enjoying the great outdoors. Let's all do our part to stay sun smart and have a fun and safe summer!
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Spirit of St Mary's
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At St Mary’s Catholic Primary we are focused on developing and educating the whole person within safe, supportive and respectful environments. Student learning and well-being is centred around quality evidence-based pastoral care and well-being practices that are modelled on the life and teaching of Jesus Christ and ensure students gain essential social and emotional skills for life. One of the ways that we promote student well-being and positive behaviour is through the ‘Spirit of St Mary’s. The Spirit of St Mary’s encompasses our Making Jesus Real philosophy, Gospel values and the Four Rs;
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At St Mary’s we are expected to be:
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We adapt a Positive Behaviour For Learning whole school approach to teaching and managing behaviours. It is designed to increase academic performance, improve safety, decrease problem behaviour and establish a positive school culture. It teaches these behaviours by consistent and frequent acknowledgment of appropriate behaviour and constructively and specifically addressing negative behaviour.
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We use digital Spirit Cup Tokens to celebrate and reinforce positive behaviours and the Spirit of St Mary’s. Students will receive points when they show the Four Rs or they ‘Make Jesus Real’. Each term, the school works towards a Spirit Cup Fun day where students take part in various fun activities such as waterslides, free dress, movies and popcorn, robotics.
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Our Term 1 Goal is 25,000 Points
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Week 3 points check is 6233 Points!
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Shout out to Room 7 for having the most points on 1323 points!
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We asked for student input and suggestions for how we could celebrate our Spirit Cup Fun Days throughout the year.
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At our assembly last week we announced that our Term 1 Spirit Cup Fun day would be a "Dress like the Teacher" free dress and bring your toys and games to school day! The date for this will be announced once the students reach their goal for 25,000 points. Watch this space each week for updates!
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BYODD Program 2023
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PORTAL IS STILL TAKING ORDERS FOR BYODD
In 2023, we have expanded the BYODD program to students in Years 3 to 6 and it is a requirement that students in these year groups have their own designated device for school use.
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Please find linked below the documents and information for BYODD. These documents contain all the information that you need to know regarding our 2023 BYODD program:
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Ordering your child's device is quick and easy through our supplier Edunet. You can learn more about our supplier Edunet by watching this video.
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We know of a previous St Mary's family seeking to sell their existing BYODD device as they have needed to upgrade for Middle School.
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Collection Notice - 2023 Student Residential Address and Other Information
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Please find linked below to a notice from the Australian Government Department of Education regarding student and parent/guardian residential address collection. As a parent/guardian you do not need to provide any information directly to the department. The only thing you need to do is ensure your address details are up-to-date with our School. If you need to update your or your child’s/children’s residential address details, please update via the Change of Details Form on the SchoolStream App. The notice below contains further information regarding exactly what information is collected.
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Music News
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New School and Library Bags
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We are very excited to share that in 2023 we will be introducing a St Mary’s school bag! We will have two sizes available to accommodate our younger and older students. The new school bag is made of a lightweight yet durable fabric. We will also have waterproof library bags available for purchase in the new year as well.
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Cost of the school back packs will be $45 and $10 for the library bags, both will be available for purchase at the start of the school year.
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2023 School Terms
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Term 1, 2023 Monday, 30 January 2023 - staff return
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Wednesday, 1 February 2023 - students return
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Thursday, 6 April 2023 - last day term one
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Term 2, 2023 Monday, 17 April to Friday, 23 June 2023
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Term 3, 2023 Monday, 17 July 2023 - staff return
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Tuesday, 18 July 2023 - students return
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Friday, 22 September 2023 - last day term three
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Term 4, 2023 Monday, 9 October 2023
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Thursday, 14 December 2023 - last day for students
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Friday, 15 December 2023 - last day for staff
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2023 School Fees
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Early Bird Discount!
Pay your school fees in full before the end of
Term 1 for a 5% discount!
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Payments can be made at the Front Office or via Direct Deposit:
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Name of Account: St Mary's Catholic Primary School
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Account Number: 39 686 0268
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Please quote your Family Ref (at the bottom of the invoice) as the reference when processing your payment.
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Outside School Hours Care and Early Learning Centre Fees
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Download School Stream
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Why download the App?
- Receive instant notifications for important news and classroom updates.
- Complete permission and absentee forms.
- Keep up to date with events and save event details directly to your own calendar.
- Order from our school canteen.
Don’t forget to turn your notifications on – so you don’t miss any important notices!
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Want to avoid fees when topping up your Flexischools account?
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Click below to download a step-by-step guide on how to top up your Flexischools account without a surcharge via Electronic Bank Transfer
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To streamline processes across the school, in 2023 we are only accepting online orders for lunches.
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All families need to set up an account for online ordering through Flexischools, which is linked directly in the School Stream App. Details on how to set up an account can be found in the “CANTEEN” tab of School Stream. There is no need to download the Flexischools App, it can all be accessed from the School Stream App.
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You can find the Canteen menu in School Stream. Please note daily orders close at 8.40am. Any orders received after this time, will be fulfilled subject to availability of stock and may be substituted for a basic sandwich.
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Cyclone Season
As we are now in the cyclone season in the Top End, families are reminded of our school procedures in the event of a cyclone.
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School closures are announced by the Department of Education and are broadcast to the public on the local TV and radio stations. In the event that government schools are closed, Catholic schools will also be closed.
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Please listen to the radio or TV for updates in relation to school closures and reopening.
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We will endeavour to keep families informed via school stream, but this will be dependent on the availability of power and personnel.
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Visit www.securent.nt.gov.au for more information.
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For up to date weather alerts please refer to www.bom.gov.au . (http://www.bom.gov.au/)
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What is happening in Darwin
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On Sunday, 14 May, walk or run at one of 70 events held nationwide or participate whenever and wherever with MDC Anywhere.
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Start your Mother’s Day with purpose by getting active for life-saving breast cancer research.
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Sign up in February to save up to 36% off your entry fee and receive up to 2 FREE Child tickets (age 12 & under) with every Adult or Concession ticket purchased in one transaction.
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