St. Michael's Primary School ~ Term 4 Week 2

IMPORTANT DATES

Principal's Message

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

As we embark on Term 4, I want to extend a warm welcome back to our St Michael's community. This term holds many special times for our community as our Year 6 students begin their final term of primary school - along with some families that will be saying goodbye to St Michael’s, our Foundation students finishing their first year of school and all of our other students completing their current year level. I pray this is a life-giving, joyful and enriching experience for all in our community. 

This term, our Sacramental Candidates have begun their preparation for the Sacraments of Confirmation and First Eucharist. Thank you to Mrs Moffat for facilitating the Sacramental Program at school. The children made their commitment, at Sunday Mass at St Michael's, to their Sacramental journey and their families and Parishioners committed their support to them as they prepare for the Sacraments. The students will attend Mass at St Michael's on 27 October to receive the Lord's Prayer and the Creed. We invite our community to the Sacramental Mass, Sunday 10 November at 11am, when the candidates will be Confirmed and receive their First Eucharist. 

Please pray for Macey, Luke, Ebony and Tom as they continue their Sacramental Journey and for their families as they support them in their preparation.

Next week, we will celebrate St Michael's Feast Day and our Grandparents and Special Friend’s Mass, which are very meaningful events in our school.

St Michael's Feast Day celebrated on September 29th, is a time for us to reflect on the values of courage, service, and faith that St Michael embodies. As our students prepare for the Feast Day they will explore how these values can guide us in our daily lives. 

As a part of our Feast Day celebration, we are excited to invite our grandparents - including great-grandparents -  and those special friends in our students’ lives who are like grandparents to them, to join us for a special Grandparents Mass on Tuesday 22 October at 1 pm at the Church, afternoon tea at 2 pm and a games afternoon at 2:30 pm. This event is a beautiful opportunity for us to celebrate these special people, and to express our gratitude for the love and wisdom our grandparents and great-grandparents bring into our lives. We hope to see many of you there, as we celebrate the vital role grandparents play in our school community.

As always, thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school. Let us make this term memorable as we grow together in faith and community. 

St Michael’s School Prayer 

Loving God,

We at St Michael’s Primary School believe that life is your gift to us and that every person is worthy of our greatest respect, care and support.

May St Mary of the Cross MacKillop inspire us to love the Good News, follow the Gospel message of Jesus Christ and be lifelong learners who are voices for justice, generous in service, gracious givers and grateful recipients. May we strive to be the best we can be. 

We ask this through Christ our Lord, Amen

Peace and blessings,

Lisa Hitchcock 

Principal 

Thank you

Thank you to Mrs Ardern for all of her work as Acting Principal at the end of Term 3 whilst I was on Long Service Leave. I appreciate her and all the staff for their dedication and care of the students and support of St Michael's. 

Class Newsletters

All classroom teachers will send out their Class Newsletter next week. This is an opportunity for families to know about the learning happening at school and to support their child/ren with this learning. The Class Newsletters are an essential part of the reporting of student learning at St Michael's and will complement the Semester 2 2024 Student Report. 

Term 4 - HATS! 

Please support your child/ren to bring their hats and sunscreen to ensure they are safe in the sun. As the UV Levels begin to increase this term.

Reminder: Change of Pupil-free Day

The pupil-free day has changed from Monday 28 October to Monday 25 November for our 2025 Planning Day. This date change will allow for Magnify Sandhurst Professional Learning to be utilised effectively in our 2025 planning.

2025 Magnify CES Ltd Pupil Free Days

Term 1
28-29 January Staff Professional Learning Days

Term 2
22-24 April Staff Professional Learning Days (The Neuroscience of Learning)

Term 3
13  August CESL Staff Spirituality Day

Term 4
17 - 19 December Staff Professional Learning Day & TIL Days

Foundation Students School Nurse Visit

The school nurse will visit St Michael's on Thursday, 24 October to do the Foundation health, wellbeing and development checks. Foundation Families -  please ensure you have completed the online form or returned your form to school. Contact the school if you have any questions. 

St. Michael’s Primary School is committed to child safety and the inclusion of all children.

New email address - Office Staff 

With the change in office days for staff, a new email address has been created for all office related school communications at:

office@smtallangatta.catholic.edu.au

Principal and teacher emails are still to be addressed directly to the staff member.

Teachers & Staff Response to Emails and Messages

To ensure our teachers and staff have a healthy work life balance I wanted to communicate to our community the following: 

• Teachers and staff will respond to emails and messages within 48 hours and will be monitoring these during the hours of 8am-5:30pm. 
• If you have an urgent message please call the school on (02) 6071 2386 or the school mobile number on 0418 105 060. 

Thank you for your understanding and care of our teachers and staff. 

Foundation Happenings

Welcome Back to Term 4 from the Foundation room!

Welcome back to what promises to be an exciting and engaging final term of the year! We hope everyone had a restful break and is ready to dive into the activities we have planned.

This term, we are thrilled to introduce a new addition to our learning environment: a Tinkering Area! This space is designed to encourage curiosity, creativity, and hands-on learning. Tinkering allows students to explore, experiment, and build, all while developing important problem-solving skills. By taking apart and reassembling everyday objects, students gain a deeper understanding of how things work and develop a mindset of perseverance and innovation.

To make this space even more enriching, we are calling on our school community for donations! We are looking for items like old printers, tape players, DVD players, and other small electronic devices that students can safely tinker with. These donations will allow students to take apart and explore the inner workings of these devices, sparking interest in engineering, technology, and design.

If you have any of these items gathering dust at home, please consider donating them to our Tinkering Area! Your contributions will help us create a dynamic and engaging learning experience for all our students.

We look forward to seeing what Term 4 brings and the wonderful creations that come from our Tinkering Area! Thank you for your continued support.

Grade 1/2 Happenings

We had an eventful term in Term 3! We had a Potato Olympics, held in conjunction with the Year 3/4 class. This was a fantastic opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and teamwork. We also had a visit from the local police, where the children learned important lessons about safety and the role of police in our community.

To celebrate the Foundation students' 100th day of primary school, we dressed up as "oldies" for a fun and memorable day. We were also fortunate to have a wonderful volunteer come in to listen to the children read, and we truly appreciate the time and effort given. And, of course, we celebrated Book Week with enthusiasm, amazing costumes and lots of reading!

In literacy, our students have been dove into the world of information reports. They were busy selecting their own topics of interest and crafting their very own poster reports. This process not only helps them improve their research skills but also encourages independence and autonomy in their writing. It’s wonderful to see them so engaged and excited about exploring their chosen subjects!

In maths, we focused on foundational concepts such as skip counting, grouping, and sharing (division), as well as multiples (multiplication). These skills are essential building blocks for more complex mathematical understanding, and the students are making great progress. Their confidence in handling numbers is always growing, and they're becoming more adept at identifying patterns and solving problems. We also ventured into the world of symmetry, where the children explored symmetrical shapes, patterns, and designs, helping them understand balance and proportion in both mathematics and the world around them.

A class newsletter will be out soon outlining the exciting term to come, our final one for the year!

District Athletic Sports

Congratulations to the following students who represented St Michael's School and NERSSA (North East Region Small Schools Association) last Friday in Albury for the Divisional Athletic Sports;

Lily Colclough, Oscar Wilson, Leon Turnbull and Ebony Furze. 

Congratulations to Leon on his third place in 9/10 Discuss and Oscar and Leon for third in the NERSSA Team 9/10 relay. 

Wodonga Catholic Parish News

Hello WCP Community,

Please find attached our latest Parish news, just a few things coming up. 

• Catholic Women's League of Victoria and Wagga Wagga have a Retreat All Welcome.
• Frs. Andrew, JP & Adi invite all parishioners to join them in praying the Rosary in the gardens of the Presbytery THIS SUNDAY.
• We also have a Commemoration of All the Faithfully departed Mass happening on All Souls Day at the Wodonga Cemetery. More info on page 2....
• St Augustine's Primary School - Annual Art Show - info on page 4.
  

I hope you all have a wonderful week and get to enjoy the sunshine... I am loving the garden at the moment; and hope you all have a chance to dig in the soil and nurture something that grows.

Kind regards

Sonni 

What's On

Trivia Night - Tallangatta Guides - Saturaday 26 October 

Our Tallangatta Galaxy Guides are organising a Trivia Night on the 26^th October at the Anglican Church Hall in Tallangatta. We are asking if you would like to put a team of 6-8 people together to compete in our trivia.

All information about team costing is on the document attached as well as information about the night. All funds raised at the trivia night will be donated to the Lakeview Sensory Garden. Thank you for your time and we hope to see you there.

From Layla, Eloise, Maeve, Charlie, Charli, Kayleigh, Isabel and Chloe

Art Show - Wodonga Catholic College

 Art Show - The 25th St Augustine’s Art Show.  

The Opening Night will be held on Friday 25th October with the Art Exhibition & Sale on Saturday 26th through Sunday 27th October 2024.

Tickets available via the link Https://events.humanitix.com/staugustines25artshow-opening-night-2024  

The Art Show Opening Night is well supported by art and party lovers alike so come along and enjoy if you're free!  

Kiewa Tennis Club - New Members Welcome

George's Creek Tennis Club - Coaching

Coaching will begin on Friday 11 th October, for juniors of ALL levels.

Please register with Sharon  on 0428 195 990 or email mckimmie@activ8.net.au ASAP. 

Section 2, 3 and 4 players for the upcoming season will need to register their interest with
Sam Reynolds, 0434 314 352 ASAP

Tallandoon Tennis - Junior Coaching 

Tallangatta Cricket Club

Tallangatta Cricket Club welcomes new and existing members to join for Junior Cricket and Cricket Blast. 

Junior training starts second week of holidays and the Blast program early November.

NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE ACTIVITIES

#stuff4teens – Halloween Movie Night

Make your Friday freaky and get spooked at our FREE Halloween Movie Night on Friday 25 October at 6pm.  Hang out for a few hours, watch a movie and grab some grub.  Hotdogs, popcorn, lollies and drinks are on the menu.  Its set to be a killer night!  Scary movie + Free food = a spooktacular time! For teens aged 13-17.  Fully supervised by adult TNH staff volunteers.  This is a FREE event, but you still need to book your spot!  See How to Book below.

Tallangatta Trick or Treat

Don’t be alarmed if on Halloween you see some creepy characters wandering the streets of Tallangatta! Halloween trick or treating is a great opportunity for the community to get outdoors and connect and for the children to have some fun!  We will put together a list of addresses so you know where trick or treating is welcome and the list will be posted on Facebook on the day. Participating households will be provided with orange ribbons and a ‘Trick or Treat Welcome Here’ sign to display.  Trick or treaters don’t need register – just the houses who will be giving out treats.  The event will be held on Thursday 31 October from 6pm to 8pm.   To register your household address reply to this email, phone or text us on 0408 573 474 or drop in and see us at 5a Banool Rd.   

Needle Felting Teddy Bears - Back by Popular Demand!

Join us at the House on Friday 1 November from 10am to 12pm to learn the addictive craft of needle felting - the process of sculpting and shaping wool into objects. A special felting needle is used to bind the fibres together, creating a solid form.  You will learn how to use a foam inner core and needle felting techniques to create a cute little teddy bear.  This is a simple but effective craft using very few materials and a relaxing hobby for many.  Why not come and give it a go?  It will be a lovely afternoon with plenty of chatting and laughter and we will have the kettle on.  See How to Book below.

Games Night

No more boring Friday nights!  Get yourself up off the couch, out of your pjs and join us at the House for Games Night on Friday 1 November from 6.30pm!  If you love cards and board games, having a laugh and a bit of friendly competition then this should be right up your alley! There is no need to book, just come along with a couple of your favourite games and some nibbles if you wish. This social night is free and all ages are welcome.  (Children must have an accompanying adult.) Games Night is held on the first Friday of every month!

 Mastering Patterns

Take your sewing skills to the next level and learn how to use patterns and sew your own garments with confidence.  The classes will run over four weeks on Sundays 3, 10, 24/11 & 1/12 from 1pm to 3pm.  Participants will receive hands-on individual support and leave with the skills and passion to be sewing outfits for years to come!   The cost of $50 covers all four sessions.  See How to Book below.  **Only 1 spot left – first in best dressed, pardon the pun!

Save the Date – Christmas is Coming!

The Tallangatta Christmas Celebration will be held in the Triangles on Friday 13 December.  The event includes the Christmas Party with free activities and food for the children, a visit from Santa and Christmas Carols.  More details to come soon but for now pop the date in your diaries!

We are here to help

Did you know that we have community volunteers here at Neighbourhood House from Monday to Friday between 9.30am to 2.30pm to help you however you may need?  If you have a tricky form to fill in or need help using the internet to research or apply for something online we can help.  If you have something happening in your life that you need support with and you are not sure who to go to, start with us and we will endeavour to point you in the right direction.  Or if you are at a loose end and feel like a cuppa and chat we are here for that too.  No need to book, just drop-in. Please help us spread the word to your family and friends!

 HOW TO BOOK!

Book in for all Neighbourhood House activities on Eventbrite https://tallangattaneighbourhoodhouse.eventbrite.com.au.  For help with bookings or more information: reply to this email, call us on 0408 573 474 or visit us at 5a Banool Rd from Monday to Friday between 9.30am and 2.30pm. 

COMMUNITY INFORMATION

Tallangatta Carer Connections – free lunch and workshop

Are you a carer for a person that needs extra support in day-to-day living? This may be a disability, illness or a chronic condition. Are you looking to connect with other carers in our local area and learn more about carer supports available?  Tallangatta Carer Connections is voluntary and run by carers for carers.   The next group gathering will be celebrating National Carers Week supported by Carers Victoria.  Connect with other carers and enjoy a free lunch and practical workshop designed to discover and focus on your goals and empower carers to care for themselves to be able to better care for loved ones.  The gathering will be held in the meeting room opposite the Library on Thursday 17 October with a cuppa from 9.30am and the workshop from 10am to 2pm including a free lunch.   Registrations are essential to Linda Goddard, Counsellor & Life Coach on 0438 577 212 or linda@ldconsulting.com.au.  All welcome.

Trivia Night

Tallangatta Girl Guides are hosting a Trivia Night on Saturday 26 October at 7pm at the Tallangatta Anglican Church Hall.  Head along for a fun-filled night of fantastic family trivia! All proceeds will go to the Lakeview Sensory Garden at Tallangatta Health Service.  This event is organised and presented by Layla, Isabel, Charli, Chloe, Charlie, Maeve, Kayleigh and Eloise from Tallangatta Girl Guides.  Bring a group along or just come along yourself and be added to a table.  Contact Maree Peters on 0438 710 272 or pmpeters@activ8.net.au to book.   

Junior Cricket @ Tallangatta Cricket Club

Junior training has started and is held on Thursday nights from 4pm for kids aged 10-16 years.   Woolworths Junior Cricket Blasters will be held on Thursdays from 3.45pm to 5pm commencing Thursday 7 November.  Cricket Blasters is for kids aged 5-10 years and is loads of fun with movement, cricket skills and games.  All sessions are held at Rowen Park, Tallangatta.   To register for Cricket Blasters click here playhq.com/cricket-australia/register  For more Junior cricket info contact Bess Kearney, Junior Co-ordinator on 0409 200 977.

Violet Town Markets Bus Trip

Hop on the bus for a road trip to Violet Town Markets on Saturday 9 November. These monthly markets have been running since 1978 and with over 200 stalls there is something for everyone including fresh produce, baked goods, arts, crafts, jewellery, wine and beer tastings, plants, tools, furniture and more!  After the markets you will call in for lunch at the Benalla Bowling Club and a couple of quick tourist stops at the Weary Dunlop Memorial and Benalla Rose Garden.  Bus cost is $35 and departs at 8am and returns at 4.30pm.  This event is hosted by Tallangatta & District Senior Citizens and everyone is welcome. Book your seat on the bus with Jenny at Crisps Newsagency or call Karla on 0407 078 825 for more info.

Promote your Community group or event

As your Neighbourhood House we see it as our role to share information about all activities happening in Tallangatta that might be of interest or benefit to our community.  If you are involved in a local community group or organisation and want to let your community know about your groups regular activities or upcoming event, please email us the information.  There are currently around 650 individual subscribers receiving this email and we have 1.2k followers on Facebook, so it is a great way to spread the word!

 Katherine