St Matthew’s Primary School

Dear Parents and Carers

Building Renovations
Our school had that “end of year” feeling this week as we relocated the children in our Years 4, 5 and 6 classes to their new temporary learning spaces. We anticipate that the first blows will be struck very early in Term Two, so it seemed logical to begin this new adventure after the holiday break. As I mentioned in last week’s newsletter our senior classes will be relocated during this period.

Amongst many temporary changes our Bike Shed will be moved to the Junior Playground to avoid the building site. I will endeavour to keep you abreast of other developments and changes as they are passed onto me.

I thought you might be interested in the new floorplan for Stage One. The significant changes are:

the rationalisation of some unoccupied areas such as the former toilet block and oversized non-teaching spaces
equalisation of the classroom floor space,
carpeting, heating, and air conditioning of the corridor space to enable greater group work.
improved visibility and access to outdoor areas and learning spaces.

Pupil Free Day
Just a reminder that the Catholic Education Office has stipulated that Tuesday April 26^th is a Pupil Free Day to allow staff further opportunities to undertake Professional Learning concerning the Catalyst Program.

Our Out of School Care Provider, OshClub has indicated that they will provide childcare on this day.

Winter Uniform
A reminder that all children are required to wear their Winter Uniform from the beginning of Term Two. A description of this uniform can be found in our Parent Handbook. https://stmattsps.act.edu.au/information-book-2020-2021

COVID Update

Our advice from Catholic Education and ACT Health is that regulations will largely remain unchanged for the start of Term Two.

We are therefore required to continue to place children in cohorts and restrict parent access to our building for the foreseeable future.

I realise that this is particularly frustrating for parents as they attempt to engage in their child’s learning. I am confident though, that our strict adherence to the regulations has assisted in our low infection rates this term.

Tomorrow
Our friend, Jess Bibby will have her Coffee Cart on our school grounds tomorrow. Treat yourself to a coffee as a celebration for the end of term.

We are also anticipating a visit from a large, white, furry creature who will be distributing chocolates tomorrow afternoon.

Thank you and Happy Easter Holidays
Thank you once again for your support this term in what has once again been a challenging period for everyone.

I hope that you have a have an opportunity to rest and enjoy your child’s company for some time this break.

May the peace of Christ touch your friends and family during this holy season.

Graham Pollard

Principal

Family Connection
Palm Sunday, also called Passion Sunday, marks the beginning of Holy Week. During this week, we prepare ourselves for Easter by prayerful reflection upon the events of Jesus' passion and death. During this week, your family might display a crucifix in a prominent place as a reminder of salvation Christ won for us. This can also serve as the focal point for family prayer during Holy Week.

Because of the length and complexity of the passion narrative, it is difficult for children to remain attentive when it is proclaimed in its entirety. Families can make it a tradition to read a portion of this Sunday's Gospel each day of Holy Week, providing ample opportunity for children to ask questions and respond to the events described there. In this way, the entire week can become a “way of the cross.”

Holy Week
This week, students and staff celebrated the events of Holy Week, the most important week in the Catholic Church's calendar.

Throughout the week, classes participated in a cohort liturgy focusing on Palm Sunday and Holy Thursday.

Tomorrow, classes will be led by their teachers through the Stations of the Cross, Jesus' journey to his crucifixion.

Vinnies Knock On Effect
Vinnies changes lives every day, but they need our help. During the month of March Vinnies is running the ‘Knock On Effect’ campaign to highlight the knock on effects that donations, fundraising and awareness raising can have. The Knock On Effect appeal will replace the previous Doorknock Appeal to educate people about the work of the St Vincent de Paul Society, recruit more members and volunteers, and raise funds for the society’s good works. Like a ripple effect, one $5 donation may not seem like much, but it can significantly assist in continuing Vinnies’ services and programs. With over 2 million people living below the poverty line in Australia, including over half a million children, your contribution allows the St Vincent de Paul Society to provide more than immediate help, it provides something much more valuable - the opportunity of a better life. Please join us in supporting those who need a hand up in challenging times. For more information head and to donate, head to https://donate.vinnies.org.au/event/knock-on-effect

Thank you
Finally, a massive thank you for your support this last term. It’s been a wonderful privilege to guide our school community through Prayer and faith formation. Next term, we welcome back Louisa Mitchell from maternity leave to continue the role as Religious Education Coordinator.

Have a safe, relaxing and enjoyable break with your families.

Daniel Hunt
Acting Religious Education Coordinator

Happy birthday wishes to Elena-Grace O, Amelia-Page C, Heavenly U, Ava M, Izak V, Ruby M, Levi M, Claudia L, Oliver S, Cecilia J, Sarah B, Olivia C, Indiana S, Asees Kaur S and Maya R, who recently celebrated birthdays.

Dear Parents

Sora_holiday_borrowing_002_.pdf

Sora_holiday_borrowing_002 pdf 212.54 KB

Thank you!

Sincerely,

Sally Judd

Teacher Librarian

Lola Reardon attended the National Championships for Taekwondo last Friday and Saturday in Brisbane. She competed in two fights, the second of which came down to a golden point. Lola emerged victorious, taking home the gold medal in her weight category. Lola has been competing for 8 years.

Free Webnair - Next Tuesday evening

Encouraging better behaviour in children | Raising Children Network

All families have received their log in details via email for our new Compass Parent Portal. The Compass Parent Portal is an online portal that allows you to interact with the school and access up-to-date information. Once you have your log-in credentials and download the app, you’ll be able to: