St Paul's Bulletin Term 3 Week 1 2025
Principal's Message
God of love,
We thank you for our wonderful grandparents.
They bring such joy and happiness into our lives.
Thank you for all the special times that we have with them.
Please watch over them, protect them and care for them now.
May they know your goodness and love always.
- Author Unknown
Dear Parents and Carers,
Welcome back for Term 3! This Saturday, we celebrate the feast day of St Anne and St. Joachim, the grandparents of Jesus. This feast day reminds us of the importance of grandparents and the role they play in our lives. These days, more so than ever, grandparents are taking on more parenting roles. May God bless all grandparents with His love and strength! Grandparents are especially invited to our Book Week Parade on August 18. On this day, we will also hold school tours for anyone interested.
After every holiday, I visit classrooms and ask about the children’s holiday reading. I ask this question because of the importance of reading to future success. A recent article in the Sydney Morning Herald said, “parents exert the single most powerful influence on their kids’ reading habits…if children see adults around them reading for their enjoyment, they’ll learn that reading is valued and will mimic that behaviour.” I encourage you to read to your children every day until they are confident to read themselves. Even our older children love being read to! If you're wondering about great children’s books to read, talk to your child’s teacher or our Teacher Librarian.
Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews will be held next week and will focus on setting learning goals for the rest of the year. This is an essential part of your child’s learning progress and the partnership between home and school. I expect that every family is involved in this process. By meeting your child’s teacher in this process, you are demonstrating to your child the importance you place on your child’s education. Bookings for interviews are now open; just go to the ‘Conference’ section in Compass.
NAPLAN results for Years 3 & 5 were delivered to the school and sent out to parents this week. We have some amazing results across the school, as well as some challenges. We were pleased to see that St Paul’s is in the ‘strong’ area (The students’ average result meets challenging but reasonable expectations at the time of testing) for all areas and above the national average for most areas. If you have any concerns about these results or wish to ask any questions, do not hesitate to contact your child’s teacher. Please note that NAPLAN is just one form of assessment completed in one week back in March. Teachers have many other assessments that often paint a more complete picture of your child’s progress. Also, we must remember that NAPLAN does not assess children’s perseverance, resilience, empathy, creativity, manners, sportsmanship, faith, or many of the other traits we believe are important in our children.
On Monday, August 4, we will be holding our school public speaking competition. Children are currently giving speeches in their classrooms so teacher can determine their class representative in the school competition. Parents are most welcome to join us for the school competition.
It is so lovely to see all the children back in their winter uniforms. They look so smart! Wearing the uniform correctly shows pride in oneself, one’s family and one’s school! Our school uniform policy (in the Parent Handbook on the school webpage) includes hair and jewellery. Please ensure your children comply with the following: “Students are asked not to wear items of jewellery, other than a watch or one set of plain sleeper or stud earrings. Hair ribbons are to be gold or navy in colour. Hair below the shoulder must be tied back (boys and girls). Hair must be the child’s natural colour and extreme styles must be avoided.”
This term, we welcome Mr Richard (Roo) Faulkner each Friday as an extra Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Educator working with Mrs Dannielle Peachey. Roo is a proud Aboriginal man from the Gommeroi nation. He was born and raised in Awabakal country, has a strong connection to the history and culture of this community and also works part-time at St Mary’s Catholic College. We also welcome Mrs Lisa Burdon to her extra role of teaching Year 5B each Thursday and Year 4B each Friday. Lisa will continue her class share position with Mrs Alex Walsh on Kinder Blue.
At the end of last term, we were told that we would have two classes of Kinder for 2026. This means we still have space next year. If you know of a family seeking a Kindergarten space for 2026, please let them know we still have a limited number of spaces.
With every blessing,
Greg Cumming
Principal
Important Dates
July 30: ASPIRE Excursion Yrs 3-6
Aug 1: Kinder 100 Days of School
Aug 4: School Public Speaking Comp 9.30 am
Aug 6: Dio Athletics Carnival
Aug 6: FACE Forum
Aug 7: Stage 2 Touch Football Gala Day
Aug 8: Feast of Mary Mackillop (no Assembly)
Aug 14: Author Visit
Aug 14: Stage 3 Touch Football Gala Day
Aug 14: U10's Knights Gala Day
Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption (no Assembly)
Aug 18: Book Parade - Grandparents Day
Aug 18-22: Book Week - Book Fair
Aug 27: School Band Performance 10 am
Sep 2: Yr6 RE Test
Sep 3: School Musical 11.45 am & 6 pm
Sep 4: Father's Day Stall
Sep 5: Father's Day Liturgy & Breakfast
Sep 11: Kinder Yaama 1
Sep 19: K-2 Athletics Carnival
Sep 26: Last Day of Term
For more details and dates, check the Compass Calendar.
2025 School Dates
Term | Start Date | End Date |
Term 1 | 31/01/2025 | 11/04/2025 |
Term 2 | 28/04/2025 | 4/07/2025 |
Term 3 | 21/07/2025 | 26/09/2025 |
Term 4 | 13/10/2025 | 19/12/2025 |
Assistant Principal's Message
Student-Led Conferences: Empowering Students, Engaging Families
Next week, we begin our 2nd cycle of Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences. This year, we are encouraging our Year 4 to Year 6 students to engage with the Student-Led Conference process.
Student-Led Conferences are a meaningful opportunity for students to take the lead in sharing their learning journey. Rather than a traditional parent-teacher interview, these conferences place students at the centre, encouraging them to reflect on their progress, set goals, and celebrate achievements.
The Student’s Role
Students prepare by selecting work samples, reflecting on their growth, and identifying areas for improvement. They practise speaking confidently and honestly about their learning, guided by their teacher. This process builds ownership, pride, and communication skills.
The Teacher’s Role
Teachers support students in preparing for the conference, helping them reflect meaningfully and structure their presentation. During the conference, teachers may facilitate or clarify, but the focus remains on the student’s voice.
The Parent’s Role
Parents are encouraged to actively listen, affirm their child’s efforts, and ask open-ended questions like, “What are you most proud of?” or “How can I support you at home?” Your presence and encouragement show your child that their learning matters and that you are a partner in their growth.
We invite all families to engage wholeheartedly in this special moment of connection and celebration. Bookings will close on Monday morning (28th July).
Father's Day Stall
Continuing from our success of our Mother's Day Stall, our Father's Day stall will be pre-ordered via the Spriggy App. Families will have until Thursday, 7th August, 3 pm to order their gifts on the Events Tab of Spriggy School App. No late orders or IOUs wll be accepted. We will have NO CASH sales on the day.
Jessica Moulder
Assistant Principal
Catholic Culture at St Paul's
Vinnies Winter Appeal – Milo Mornings at St Paul's!
Warm up your heart and your hands this winter with our Milo Mornings, running every Friday during Term 2 and 3 at St Paul’s. For just $2 per cup, you can enjoy a delicious hot milo served in your own travel mug, while supporting the Vinnies Winter Appeal.
All funds raised will go directly to helping those in need stay warm and cared for this winter. Let’s come together as a community to make a difference—one cup at a time!
Milo Mornings start Friday 20 June!! The same day as our Winter Woolies Day... warm up inside and out!
Aboriginal Education
At the end of Term 2, St Paul's Primary School celebrated NAIDOC week. Our celebrations kicked off with a heartfelt opening ceremony. Students, staff and community members gathered to honour Indigenous culture through dance, song, and a smoking ceremony. The atmosphere was filled with respect and joy as we embraced the rich heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and celebrated 50 years of NAIDOC.
The festivities continued with students donning the vibrant colours of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags. During a lunchtime break, our Undi Booran dancers captivated everyone by teaching traditional dance moves that replicate the movements of kangaroos, emus, goannas, and eagles, as well as a rain dance. The students were thrilled to learn and participate in these cultural expressions.
Library time was dedicated to reading "A Circle of Life" by Greg Dreise, immersing students in stories that celebrate Indigenous culture and traditions. Inspired by the book, students painted their own circles of life, each practicing the tradition of showing gratitude for family, country, and the children of the future.
On the last day of term, our students and teachers embarked on an incredible journey of learning and discovery with a bush tucker tasting event! Children and teachers alike engaged in exploring the traditional uses and flavours of Australian native plants and animals. They had the unique opportunity to taste emu, wallaby, and crocodile, experiencing the rich culinary heritage of our land.
The tasting adventure didn't stop there! Students compared the distinct flavours of European honey and native honey, discovering the unique qualities of each. They also savoured the zesty burst of finger lime and enjoyed the refreshing taste of rosella flower-infused cordial.
It was a day filled with learning, engagement, and a deep appreciation for the diverse flavors and traditions of Australian bush foods. A huge thank you to Auntie Steff from Numa Ngarra Aboriginal Culture and Tucker and everyone who made this event possible! It was a week filled with learning, cultural appreciation, and creative expression.
Last term's wet weather prevented us from extending this year's NAIDOC mural. We're excited to begin work on it in the coming days. Additionally, Aunty Hilary's Aboriginal Dance Workshops were postponed and are now scheduled to take place early this term.
Sports News
Event Reminders
Under 10s Rugby League Gala- Thursday 14th August at John Balcomb Field, Dudley.
Diocesan Athletics- 6th August Glendale Sports Centre
Stage 2 Touch Football Gala Day- 7th August- Broadmeadow
Stage 3 Touch Football Gala Day- 14th August- Broadmeadow
Touch Football Gala Day
Thank you to those parents who have already given consent for their child to attend the Touch Football Gala. If you have not yet given consent, please do so ASAP so that teams can be finalised. Thank you to those parents who have volunteered to assist on the day. If there are any Stage 3 parents who are available to assist on the day, we would be grateful for another 2-3 helpers.
AFL After-school Clinics
The AFL are offering students at our school the opportunity to be involved in after-school AusKick and SuperKick programs. Please see the flyer below if your child is interested in participating, or contact matt.haines@afl.com.au
Library News
We’ve hit the ground running this term, with plenty of excitement building in the Library as we prepare for the fun and festivities of Book Week.
Important library dates for your diaries:
Thursday 31st July- Sales for the books to be signed at school by Sue Whiting close.
Monday 11th August- Book Club orders close.
Thursday 14th August - Sue Whiting -Author Visit
Monday 18th August (Week 5)- Book Parade, Book Fair and Grandparents/Grandfriends Day
Author Visit and Book Purchase Information
We are thrilled to announce that Sue Whiting, esteemed Australian author, will be visiting St Paul’s as part of our Book Week celebrations! This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to meet a real-life author and be inspired by her love of storytelling.
To make the most of this visit, families can purchase Sue Whiting’s books, which she will personally sign during her time at school. Book sales close on Thursday 31st July, so don’t miss out!
To order, simply follow this link: https://www.lamontauthors.com.au/buy-authors-book/
Book Week and Grandparents’ Day – Monday 18th August at 9am
Join us at St Paul’s on Monday 18th August at 9am as we launch Book Week and celebrate our cherished Grandparents and Grand Friends.
The morning will feature a colourful parade and a Book Fair in the library. All students are encouraged to come dressed as their favourite book character. It’s a wonderful opportunity to share the joy of reading and honour the important people in our lives.
We warmly welcome all families, especially our Grandparents and Grandfriends, to be part of this memorable event. Everyone is welcome – we hope to see you there!
Book Raffle
As part of our Book Week celebrations, we’re holding a Book Raffle with 20 fantastic books up for grabs! Tickets will be sold outside the library in the mornings from Week 2 until the end of Week 4 at 50c each or 3 for $1.
Books in the raffle include titles by Sue Whiting, The Bad Guys, Truck Cat, Roblox, Minecraft adventures, and a selection of bedtime and nursery rhymes. There is something for every reader!
All money raised will go towards purchasing new books for our school library.
The raffle will be drawn during Week 5’s morning assemblies!
Book Fair
The Book Fair will be held in the library after the Book Parade on Monday 18th August. It will also be open Tuesday to Friday mornings from 8:20–8:45, and Monday to Thursday afternoons from 2:45–3:00.
On Friday 15th August, children will have the opportunity to browse the Book Fair and create wish lists to take home. Families can then purchase books through the online platform.
Books start at just $2, and card payment is preferred. Come support our school and celebrate the joy of reading!
Belinda Mayall
Teacher Librarian
St Paul's Gateshead
Parent News
Year 6 Graduation and End of Year Events
St Paul's School based Year 6 Graduation will take place on Tuesday, 16th December, 6 pm-7:30 pm.
Year 6 Beach Day is Thursday, 11th December.
Year 6 Clap Out Tuesday 16th December, 2:15 pm.
More details to come closer to the date.
Volunteering at St Paul's
Please see the below link if you would like to register to volunteer at St Paul’s. Our school is always in need of volunteers for many school activities. We will let you know once we receive your clearance from your registration; this must be received before you volunteer.
Year 6 Canberra Excursion
Year 6 students from our school attended an education tour of the national capital as part of their Canberra excursion last term. Students participated in a variety of educational programs with a focus on Australia’s history, culture, heritage, and democracy.
The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion, the Australian Government contributed funding to our school in the amount of $30 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs. We are appreciative to the Australian Government for their contribution to this excursion. This rebate was considered when calculating the cost of the excursion for our families.
Upcoming information sessions and webinars for parents and carers
Parents and carers are the most important educators in their child’s life. As well as partnering directly with our school to support your child’s learning and wellbeing, there are a range of webinars and information sessions provided each month by reputable providers specifically for parents and carers- free of charge. To view a list of upcoming webinars and information sessions that may be of interest to you, click the link below at any time. The list will be updated weekly throughout the school term, so be sure to check the page regularly.
Another useful resource for parents and carers to access timely information on a range of topics including cyber safety, mental health, positive parenting, school survival, diversity and inclusion and healthy bodies is via School TV. Our school invested in this online platform so that our parents and carers can conveniently access reliable information from credible sources all in one place - when you need it most - not just at a specified webinar time. It includes videos, fact sheets and podcasts all delivered by leading psychologists and experts.
To access our school’s SchoolTV site visit https://gatesheadsp.catholic.schooltv.me/
Creative Arts News
Calling all Rock n’ Rollers!! Learn Guitar at school with Ricky’s Music Tuition
Open to Years K to 6, students will learn everything from Billy Eilish to Post Malone, to Imagine Dragons, to AC/DC. Students will learn in small groups at school, and have the opportunity to perform as part of an ensemble, enjoying the excitement and experience of being a real musician with skills that will last a lifetime. If you are interested in your child being involved, please email enrol@rickysmusictuition.com.au
Office Messages
IMPORTANT - School Fees
We would like to kindly remind all families that fee payments should have started now, as per the school’s payment schedule. For families who have already started making payments, we sincerely thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. Your continued support is deeply appreciated.
For those who have not yet started payments, we kindly ask that you start making regular payments moving forward. The Catholic Schools Office requires a steady payment schedule, and timely payments are essential for maintaining the smooth running of the school.
If you have any questions or need assistance with the payment process, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
Thank you once again for your support.
Volunteering
Throughout the year, we invite parents/carers to volunteer at the school. To volunteer, you must complete the volunteer's induction.
Complaints, Resolution and Feedback
St Paul’s Primary School, The Catholic Schools Office (CSO) and Schools in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle are committed to providing a positive, safe environment for all staff and students. There are occasions, however, when members of our schools and wider community are concerned about something happening at a school that appears to be unsatisfactory or unreasonable.
If you have a complaint, please follow this procedure.
Car Park Rules
All parents are required to follow the car park rules:
- No Parking in the Kiss’n’drop zone
- “Kiss‘n’drop” only operates in the morning, NOT in the afternoon
- Children should get out on the left side of the car. Parents should stay in the car.
- In the afternoon parents must park and walk to the gate to collect their children
- No parking in the OOSH Staff parking area
- No parking adjacent to the church, which is a walkway
- Avoid reversing when possible
- Drive at a walking pace only
- Do not enter the staff parking section unless you have a ‘disabled’ sticker
- School zones remain in place for the safety of our children and families. School zones operate on all gazetted school days, Which are all days the school is open, even pupil-free days.
- Give way to all traffic as you exit the car park.
Please keep our car park safe for the sake of all our children.
Parish News
Children’s Liturgy is held every Sunday at 9:30am during Holy Mass. WE ARE NOW BACK IN ST PAUL'S CHURCH! We have a beautiful, dedicated room at St Paul’s Gateshead where we hear and discuss the Gospel each week, working our way through the Liturgical Calendar.
There’s always lots of friendship and fun activities.
Safeguarding is our highest priority. Children’s Liturgy will only go ahead if there are two volunteers with current Working With Children Checks.
All are welcome! We look forward to meeting some new friends!
Jacqui Wilson (school mum at St Paul’s Primary) and the Children’s Liturgy Team.