OLOG eNewsletter Term 3 Week 6
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
It is with immense joy and pride that I reflect on our recent Catholic Schools Open Week. This event is not just a moment in our calendar; it is an opportunity for us to open our doors and hearts to the wider community, showcasing the unparalleled value of a Catholic education.
What makes a Catholic education distinct? At the heart of our pedagogy lies the holistic development of each child – academically, spiritually, emotionally, and morally. Our educational approach stems from our foundational Catholic values: prayer, community, service and study. Here, students do not just receive an education; they embark on a journey of self-discovery, faith formation, and service to others. Our mission is to foster leaders of tomorrow, grounded in faith and driven by a sense of purpose to make a difference in the world. We place a special emphasis on integrating faith with learning. This means that in addition to striving for academic excellence, our students explore deep moral questions, develop a strong sense of ethics, and learn the value of compassion and community. They are taught to see God’s hand in every aspect of the world around them.
Our Open Week showcased precisely this. The overwhelming response we received, evident from the full tours, is a testament to the community’s growing interest and appreciation for what a Catholic Education offers. I was especially heartened to see so many new faces during our 'Pop-up Playgroup.' It’s always a joy to watch young minds interact, play, and explore in a space that radiates love, care, and faith.
To all the families who joined us, thank you for allowing us to share our passion for Catholic Education with you. And to our staff and students who worked tirelessly to make this event a success, your dedication shines brightly as always.
As we move forward, let’s remember that the strength of our school lies in our commitment to our faith, our dedication to academic excellence, and our unwavering belief in the potential of every child. Let’s continue to celebrate and champion the unique benefits and blessings of a Catholic Education.
Father's Day 2023
Father's Day is a special occasion that provides us with the opportunity to express our gratitude and appreciation for the important male figures and role models in our lives. Beyond just fathers, this day serves as a time to celebrate the uncles, grandfathers, mentors, and other influential men who have made a positive impact on our journey. It's a moment to reflect on the incredible things they do and the profound connections they bring into our lives.
In a world where relationships and connections play a pivotal role in shaping who we become, it's essential to recognise and honour the impactful men who contribute significantly to our growth and development. These individuals offer guidance, support, and love that extend far beyond mere words. They show us the importance of compassion, strength, and resilience through their actions. They offer a sense of security and belonging that becomes a cornerstone of our identity. Through their presence, we understand the importance of strong relationships and the power of a supportive community. These connections teach us to value the people who uplift us and stand by our side, regardless of the challenges we face.
Father's Day is an opportunity to celebrate these important male figures and role models in our lives. Their contributions, guidance, and unwavering support shape our paths and help us become the best versions of ourselves. As we honour them on this special day, let us also carry forward the lessons they've taught us, nurturing connections and making a positive impact on the lives of others.
Our Unsung Heros
As we celebrate National Teacher Aide Week, it's only fitting that we take a moment to acknowledge the wonderful teaching support staff who help make our school a place where every child has the opportunity to succeed.
From assisting in the classroom to supporting individualised education plans, from helping with school events to providing the emotional and academic support that our students need, our teaching support staff are the backbone of Our Lady of Grace School. Their dedication goes far beyond their job descriptions, and the impact of their work resonates through every classroom, every hallway, and every student’s life.
While our teachers are often the ones in the spotlight, it's important to remember that teaching and learning are collaborative efforts. Our teaching support staff—teacher aides, educational assistants, and others—provide the kind of specialised attention that enables all students to flourish. They make learning accessible to the students with diverse needs. They offer targeted help to students who are struggling, thereby making it possible for the teacher to focus on delivering lessons that cater to a broad audience. The contributions of our teaching support staff extend beyond academics; they are instrumental in building a nurturing environment. They are often the first to notice if a student is going through a challenging time emotionally or socially. Their keen observations and prompt actions contribute to the overall well-being of our students, making our school a safer and happier place for all.
So, this week, let’s all take a moment to extend our heartfelt thanks to these amazing professionals. If you see a member of our teaching support staff this week, I encourage you to thank them personally for their contributions. Let's make them feel the appreciation they so richly deserve.
On behalf of the entire OLOG community, thank you to our outstanding teaching support staff. Your tireless dedication, enthusiasm, and love for our students does not go unnoticed or unappreciated. You are the unsung heroes who help us write success stories every day, and for that, we are eternally grateful.
Book Week 2023
Last week we celebrated one of the most treasured traditions in our school community Book Week—I wanted to take a moment to delve into the rich history of this celebrated event, and to reflect upon the irreplaceable value of reading. This is not only a week of fun-filled activities and events; it is also a vital initiative that carries the profound message of the importance of reading and the impact it can have on our children's future.
Inaugurated over 75 years ago, Book Week has its roots deeply embedded in the belief that literacy and reading are the cornerstones of an empowered society. Initially organised by the Children’s Book Council of Australia, this event has evolved into an international phenomenon, celebrated in schools, libraries, and homes across the globe.
The essence of Book Week lies in the recognition that books are not just pages filled with words, but rather windows to new worlds, ideas, and perspectives. Every year, the event is symbolized by a theme that encourages children to engage with reading in a way that stretches their imagination and curiosity. This year’s theme, "Read, Grow, Inspire encourages us to immerse ourselves in the pages of books, fostering a deeper understanding that allows us to grow and become a source of inspiration for others.
As parents, it is crucial to remember that we are our children's first teachers. Our behaviours, interests, and values are often mirrored by them. When we read, not as a chore but as a fun and enriching activity, our children are more likely to adopt the same attitude. Let's use Book Week as an opportunity to consciously spend time reading together, discuss books at mealtimes, or even make a family trip to the local library. The experience of watching a parent engrossed in a book sends a powerful message that reading is worthwhile and enjoyable. We can even extend this learning environment by creating a 'reading corner' at home, equipped with a variety of books suitable for all family members.
In today’s fast-paced world, the benefits of reading extend far beyond academic performance. Reading improves focus and concentration, expands vocabulary, enhances empathy through the understanding of different cultures and viewpoints, and offers us tools for critical thinking. Beyond that, in a world bursting with information, the ability to quickly absorb and analyse text is more crucial than ever. Reading is not a skill confined to the realms of childhood or academia; it is a lifelong competency with significant implications for personal and professional success. Whether it's following a complex set of instructions, staying updated on current events, or understanding the subtleties of human interaction in a novel, reading is an essential skill that underpins various aspects of our life.
This Book Week, our school has organised a plethora of activities—incursions, book stalls, reading challenges, parades, and a range of lunchtime craft activities —to further cultivate a love for reading. As we celebrate the joy of reading, let us remind ourselves that every book opened is a door to a new world, waiting to be explored. By fostering a love of reading, we are not just enhancing our children's academic prospects but enriching their lives in a myriad of ways that will continue to benefit them long into adulthood.
Thank you for your commitment to your children’s education and your continued support for our school's initiatives.
National Child Protection Week
As the Acting Principal, I'm committed to the safety, well-being, and holistic development of all children in our care. I wanted to take this opportunity to talk about something incredibly important—National Child Protection Week, which runs from 3rd to 9th September 2023, and Safeguarding Sunday, which follows on 10th September 2023.
This year's theme, "Where We Start Matters," holds significant weight. It is not just about what we do to protect children but also where and how we initiate these protective measures. Focusing on creating safe environments for children is not just a social obligation but a moral one. Safeguarding Sunday will be observed in all Australian Catholic Dioceses on 10th September 2023. As part of this, children and young people attending mass will receive a highlighter bearing the words 'Highlight your voice,' a thoughtful initiative from the Archdiocesan Child Protection Unit.
The message is profound: Ensuring that we hear the voices of children and young people is a significant protective strategy and we are working in partnership with the parish to incorporate messages about Safeguarding Sunday in communications to our extended community.
How You Can Help
Be Informed: Familiarise yourself with our school's policies on child protection and safeguarding.
Open Dialogue: Speak with your children about the importance of safety and let them know they are always heard.
Community Watch: If you see something, say something. Vigilance from our entire community is essential for safeguarding our children.
Participate: Join us in any community or school events focused on safeguarding children, and let's make a collective impact.
Let us use National Child Protection Week and Safeguarding Sunday as catalysts to review, reinforce, and initiate measures that protect our young ones today and into the future.
Student Safety Reminder
Students and families are reminded to be wary of approaches from strangers, especially when they are unaccompanied or travelling to and from school. If they are approached students should not respond and should not accept offers of rides or gifts.
Students should seek the assistance of other nearby adults if they feel unsafe and should report the event to a trusted adult (parent or school staff member) as soon as possible.
SAPOL advises that taking out a mobile phone and calling police can deter the offender and they recommend the student making a formal report to their closest police station.
With thanks,
Emma Fowler
Acting Principal
Social Justice Liturgy
On Thursday 24th August the Year 2/3’s led a Social Justice Liturgy to coincide with Catholic Education Week.
We were reminded that our faith calls us to love God and to love our neighbours in every situation especially poverty, and that we can follow in the footsteps of Jesus to make present the justice, love and peace of God in our world.
The children enjoyed singing “One Faith, One Hope, One Love” and “Rainbow” both by Andrew Chinn.
Father’s Day Breakfast and Liturgy
Looking forward to the annual Father’s Day Breakfast tomorrow, beginning at 8.00am-9.00am. Thank you to all those who have registered their attendance. A special Liturgy to honour the special men in the children’s lives will follow in the Church.
There will be a coffee van for those who wish to purchase a hot drink.
Back Packs 4 SA Kids
We reached out to Back Packs 4 SA Kids and asked what they would like us to ask our OLOG Community to donate, and they replied that they are in urgent need for stationery items.
The Year 6 Student Voice Leaders were keen to help out and launched our Back Packs 4 SA Kids initiative this week.
Families will have the opportunity to donate stationery items from Weeks 6-8.
Please see Audiri post for class allocations. Each year level team will have a basket to put donations in and at the end of Week 8 students will collate the stationery items and donate them to Back Packs 4 SA Kids.
Last year we donated 74, we are hoping to reach 100 this year.
Thank you in advance for your support.
Premier’s Reading Challenge
We are rapidly approaching the last day for the Premier’s Reading Challenge.
If your child is participating in the Premier’s Reading Challenge this year, please forward your child’s completed form to their classroom teacher ASAP.
The last day to submit student forms is Friday 8th September.
Please ensure that your child’s form is submitted by the date above in order for them to receive a medal or certificate.
Joy and blessings,
Debbie Scuteri
APRIM/Leader of Learning
Gold Australia SA 12&Under School Golf
On Monday 14th August Levi Cook participated in the Gold Australia SA 12&Under School Golf Event at West Beach Golf Club.
40 students competed and Levi finished a very commendable 23rd with a score of 69. Well done Levi!
SAPSASA Athletics
On Thursday the 24th of August, on a lovely late Winter's day, 28 students from Our Lady of Grace attended the South-West District Athletics Day at Henley Athletics Club. Students competed in the 100, 200, 800, 1500 and 4 x 100 metre relay events as well as Shot Put, Discus, Long Jump and High Jump.
We had a number of students finish in the top 3 and lots more featuring in the finals of the running events which were a highlight of the day. Overall OLOG finished 4th in the Small Schools division (maximum of 151 students enrolled in years 4-6. OLOG have 96) and were very well represented across the day. Special thanks to parent volunteers Jessica Floreani and Vicky Black for helping manage our athletes on the day.
Clinton Alleway & Sara Cox
Thank you to everyone who helped out and supported Mini Vinnies during Book Week.
The raffle was a huge success. Winners were Iyla 1st prize, Florence 2nd prize and Isabella 3rd prize.
Total raised this term: $350
Important Dates
Father's Day Breakfast & Liturgy
ReLAT Practise Week
Parent Information Session: Anxiety and Worry in Children
SACPPSA Touch Football Carnival- Yr 5 & 6
School Disco
ReLAT Test Week
Swimming Week Yr 2,3 & 4
Finance Meeting @ 3:30pm
P&F Meeting @ 7:00PM
School Board Meeting @ 7:00pm
School Photos
P&F Bunnings Sausage Sizzle
School Photos Catch-Up Day
Pupil Free Day
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
We are excited to announce that on Tuesday 5 September, Madhavi Nawana Parker from Positive Minds Australia will be hosting a parent session focusing on Anxiety and Worry in Children.
Bookings for the session can be made via the link below.
St Mary's Memorial would like to extend an invite to their Parent Information Session presented by Cybersafe Families. The session will cover topics such as cyberbullying, offensive content, illegal content, harmful content, grooming, privacy and personal information, digital reputation and respectful online relationships.
Please find flyer attached for more information.
Bookings can be made by scanning the QR code on the flyer.
Catholic Schools Parents SA will be hosting a workshop presented by Madhavi Nawana Parker, Director of Positive Minds Australia.
The workshop will help parents and carers identify the difference between bullying and social clumsiness, whilst also providing practical and constructive ways for young people to cope with confidence and resilience.
Register via the CESA Registration Centre.
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
Please save the date for the P&F Marion Bunnings BBQ on Saturday 23 September.
Volunteers will be required to assist with this event. The registration link will be shared closer to the date.
Thank you in advance for your support.
On Thursdays we encourage students to bring a game to school which they can play with a friend/friends in the Library at lunch time.
Games day is a lovely social interaction for our children and will continue to run on Thursday's next term.
Games are to be packed in a container/bag clearly labelled with student's name and class.
Please note no Pokémon Cards or trading cards allowed.
Social