Term 1 Newsletter, 4th April 2025
Principal's Message
Did you survive?
Being the last newsletter for the term I would like to extend a very sincere thank you for a wonderful start to the year. Short in time, but big in achievements. It is only through the genuine positive partnerships that exist here at St Francis de Sales that we continue to provide a quality learning environment for your children.
I am so thankful for the continued efforts of our great staff. This Term, has seen the continuation of our strategic plan, including our St Francis de Sales values, continuation of our writing, reading and spelling improvement strategies, our visible learning qualities (in and outside the classroom), engaging / fun lessons (check out the Facebook page), cross country and many sporting events, various liturgies and religious celebrations, PEN discussions, parent information nights, tuck shop on Fridays, parent teacher interviews, the list goes on!!! All of this just doesn’t happen. Behind the scenes, our amazing staff (and parents) go to great lengths in organising these initiatives, and for that, I sincerely commend them for their time and effort.
The feedback I have received from both teachers and parents following recent parent teacher interviews is most rewarding. There is a real feeling that each and every person wants the best for the children who attend and want the school to continue providing its unique brand of service, care and quality education.
Being a parent is a hard job, a complicated job, and sometimes a lonely job. Probably, it’s the most important job people will ever have because as their child’s first teacher, they will make a difference one way or another. Parents here at St Francis de Sales have the opportunity to form a viable partnership with their child’s teacher, because together they have a common goal: a successful school year for each child.
It’s important to remember that parents and teachers are partners in helping each child achieve a successful transition to adulthood. This combined support is essential if the transition is to be a positive developmental experience for your child. A good relationship with your child’s teacher will make it easier for you to stay informed about your child’s progress across all areas of schooling and to work together if problems arise during the year.
On occasion, you might find that your teacher has constructive criticism about your child; it’s important to keep an open mind to the teacher’s comments. Neither the child nor the teacher is perfect – nor parents for that matter – so, if a problem arises, it’s important to consider both sides of the story. The outcome should be the one that helps your child succeed at school. There needs to be sensitivity that respects the teacher as a well-trained professional and consideration that respects the parents who have special knowledge of their child.
Our teachers and support staff are dedicated and caring and want to excel in their teaching and guidance of young people. Everyone likes to be appreciated, and teachers are no exception. If we continue with the “We” attitude and work with our child’s teacher, then our child will have a great school year.
The Hard Work Pays Off
About this time, kids begin to show the tell-tale signs of weariness. Friendships are tested and resilience and persistence start to drop. It is not only the students who start to feel the strain of a busy school term, parents do as well.
We know the amount of effort which goes into parenting. From the preparedness of each school day and school events to the after school and weekend extra-curricular activities, parents are pushed to the limit. It is at times like these that everyone, especially the significant adults in the lives of children, make a concerted effort to keep going. Don’t forget, your child’s teacher is your ally. The continuation of open communication and support is vital for the ongoing emotional health of your children.
It is vital that parents and teachers continue to promote persistence by encouraging children to keep going and not give in at the slightest hurdle or difficulty. The ability to persist at a task and see it through to the end is one of the most import success attributes that you can develop in a child. There are numerous times in the school year where children must persist rather than give in. A young child learning to tie their shoelace must persist. Students need determination to complete set tasks. Children need to be able to persist when work gets tough, life seems hard, or relationships are not so positive. It is vital that they learn to work through difficulties and hang in their when things don’t go their way. Some children are naturally more predisposed to persist than others. They have a determined, even competitive, streak in their temperament that doesn’t allow them to give in.
Research has shown that persistence is one temperamental factor that can be improved over time. Parents and teachers can develop persistence in children and also impede its development by making life too easy for children so that they don’t have opportunities to persist or hang in there.
Parents can be sounding boards for their children’s gripes, but they should show confidence in their ability to cope and get through periods of difficulty. “You Can Do It” is far more powerful in terms of promoting an attitude or persistence than “if it’s a little too hard, then try something else.”
Let children know that there is a direct link between effort and success. In fact, they need to learn that by giving effort they will more than likely experience more success. The ability to persist in the face of difficulties maybe an old-fashioned quality but it is one of the best success attributes that children will ever develop. If you detect a drop in persistence, try these practical strategies to rejuvenate effort levels: -
Use and display a vocabulary for persistence. For example, “Hang Tough”, “Work Hard”, “Hang in There”.
Catch them out when they stick at a task. Similar to the effectiveness in catching them out and acknowledging when they make good choices in behaviour. Let them know when they have been persistent and remind them their efforts will pay off. Remind children when they experienced success by hanging in there. Let them know if that their persistence has paid off before and it will happen again.
Talk about hard work with your children. Tell them about family members who work hard. They need to understand that to be successful they need to do things that are not always fun and easy. While it would be good if all work and learning was fun, in reality, this is not always the case.
Keeping It Screen-Savvy: Choosing Appropriate Streaming Content for Kids This Season of Easter
The Easter break is upon us—a time for relaxation, joy, and a little extra screen time for the kids while families celebrate or unwind. With an abundance of streaming platforms and countless shows and movies at our fingertips, it’s never been easier—or harder —to find wholesome, age-appropriate content for our children. Here are some tips and recommendations to help ensure that what’s on their screens is as delightful and enriching as the holidays themselves.
- Check Ratings and Descriptions:
Streaming platforms often provide age ratings and short descriptions of their content. Use these as your first guide to assess if a show or movie aligns with your family’s values and your child’s maturity level. Look out for content labelled as "Family" or "Kids" for a safer starting point.
2. Preview Before They View:
If time allows, preview shows or movies before your kids watch them. Alternatively, read trusted reviews from sources like Common Sense Media, which offer insights on language, themes, and educational value.
3. Explore Educational and Holiday-Themed Options:
The holidays are a great opportunity to blend entertainment with learning. Platforms like Netflix, Disney+, or YouTube Kids often have curated holiday sections featuring heartwarming, family-friendly specials. Don’t overlook the power of documentaries or series that teach about history, science, or other cultures—they can spark curiosity and meaningful conversations.
4. Set Screen Time Limits:
While it’s tempting to let kids binge during the holidays, balance is key. Set clear limits for screen time and encourage breaks for outdoor play or creative activities.
5. Watch Together:
Whenever possible, share the screen experience with your child. Not only can this ensure the content is appropriate, but it also creates cherished bonding moments. Plus, you’ll be there to answer any questions or discuss important them.
My best wishes for a safe and Holy Easter season to you and your families. Take the time to be peaceful and prayerful as we approach the holiday period and enjoy ‘down-time’ with family and loved ones. Intentions such as peace and harmony will focus us as we attend Easter Masses and worship services. Let’s enjoy the Easter break and look forward to renewing the positive relationships that exist across our school community in Term 2.
Calendar Events:
The list of school events is located on the school’s webpage – https://sfdssclifton.schoolzineplus.com/calendar
This is a great way of keeping up to date with upcoming events. Emails, notifications and Facebook posts will also occur throughout the year to inform and remind you of upcoming events etc. Please see the next couple of events happening very soon: -
Week 1 – Holy Week and ANZAC Day Celebrations
21 Apr – EASTER MONDAY
22 Apr – Pupil Free Day – no students
23 Apr – School Resumes, Tennis Southern Downs, Holy Week Preparations
24 Apr – ANZAC Liturgy at 10:30am
25 Apr – ANZAC DAY – St Francis de Sales Staff and Community attend March at 10:30am
27 Apr – 9:30 Sunday Mass with Morning Tea
Week 2
28 Apr – Line Marking on Oval
29 Apr – RL DD trials, Staff Attending PD in Allora – 3:30pm
30 Apr – RL DD trials – CD Cross Country Trials in Pilton
1 May
2 May – Pie drive forms due back
Week 3
5 May – LABOUR DAY Holiday
6 May –
7 May –
8 May –
9 May – Mother’s Day Liturgy; Meals on Wheels, Cross Country DD (multiclass) and SD
11 May – Mother’s Day
Week 4
12 May -
13 May –
14 May –
15 May –
16 May – Gala Day at Allora – Year 3-6.
Week 5 –
19 May –
20 May – DD Cross Country
21 May –
22 May –
23 May – Meals on Wheel, Pick up Pie Orders
25 May – Family Sunday Mass – 9:30am
Thanks for reading.
Regards,
Mr. Red
Middle Leader News
I would like to take a moment to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your active participation in our recent Parent-Teacher Interviews. Your presence and engagement during these sessions are greatly appreciated, and I believe they are an essential element in fostering a strong partnership between our school and your homes.
As we navigate through another exciting academic year here at St Francis, I wanted to take a moment to delve into a concept that lies at the heart of our educational philosophy: "The Learning Pit." This metaphorical pit is where our students encounter challenges, grapple with new concepts, and ultimately emerge stronger, wiser, and more capable.
What is the Learning Pit?
Imagine a deep, dark pit, shrouded in mystery and uncertainty. At its entrance lies the comfort zone, a place where tasks and concepts are well within our grasp. However, just beyond the entrance, the ground begins to slope downward, leading us into unfamiliar territory. This is where the learning pit begins.
The Learning Pit is a representation of the discomfort and struggle that often accompanies true learning. It's where students confront difficult problems, face setbacks, and grapple with complex ideas. It's a place of challenge and discomfort, but it's also the crucible of growth and development.
Embracing Challenge and Growth
Our goal at St Francis is not merely to impart knowledge but to nurture learners who are resilient, resourceful, and ready to face the ever-changing world. The Learning Pit is a powerful tool in achieving this goal. When students find themselves in the Learning Pit, it's essential to understand that this is a normal and valuable part of the learning process. It's a place where students are pushed to think critically, seek solutions, and develop problem-solving skills. It's where they confront their limitations, push past them, and emerge stronger.
The Role of Teachers and Parents
As educators and parents, we play a crucial role in guiding our students through the Learning Pit. Here's how we can support them:
- Create a Safe Environment: Encourage students to take risks and embrace challenges without fear of failure. Let them know that mistakes are an integral part of the learning process.
2. Foster a Growth Mindset: Teach students that their abilities are not fixed but can be developed through dedication and hard work. Encourage a positive attitude towards learning and growth.
3. Provide Guidance: Offer guidance and support when students encounter difficulties. Help them break down complex problems into manageable steps.
4. Celebrate Progress: Celebrate both the small and big achievements along the learning journey. Recognize the effort and perseverance that go into overcoming challenges.
The Path to Success
In embracing the Learning Pit, we equip our students with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. They learn not only how to overcome obstacles but also how to approach new challenges with confidence and determination.
So, the next time your child faces a daunting assignment or grapples with a complex concept, remind them that they are in the Learning Pit—a place of growth and transformation. With your support and encouragement, they will emerge from it stronger, more knowledgeable, and better prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.
Mrs. Busiko
Prep/1/2 News
As we reach the end of Term One, it's a perfect time to reflect on the incredible journey we've all been on. This term has been filled with numerous learning opportunities, personal growth, and memorable moments that have shaped our school community.
Our friends would like to share their reflections of the term:
Hain- I love everything we do. The knowledge time to get more thinking to our brain. To go to high school you work a lot harder.
Grayson- I like that we have created lots of things.
Zeke- I love all the learning we've been doing. I love learning because it keeps me focus and keeps new information in my long term memory.
Nell- I love that we are kind. There is no bullying. We just have all the friends we love. I enjoyed making Tiddalick and learning numbers to 1000.
Cody- I like learning all about reading and writing.
Jack- I like cutting, drawing and writing the letters.
Kiansh- I like learning the letters and how to write the letter r.
Hudson- I like learning letters and keeping up with my friends.
Oscar- I love our mad minute championships. I really enjoy PE lessons. I love reading routine and kitty cat. We made Tiddalick which was messy and fun.
Zarah- I love the mad minute, writing and having my teacher.
Vance- I loved learning about sound and vibrations. I like the noise.
Billy- I like when we had the Jesus picnic. That was my favourite day. I liked finding the main idea in the Shark text.
Olivia- I liked meeting Mrs. Wren and doing our activities with her. I liked doing the Jesus praying in the garden of Gethsemane painting. I liked finding the main idea in texts.
Mrs. Skillington
Yr. 3/4 News
Cinquain Poetry by the students of Class 3/4.
After a unit of work on Poetry, students were asked to write a cinquain poem about a family member or special friend.
Evie
Cute, lovely
Playing, bossing, supporting
Best little girl ever
Kind
Holly
Curious, bossy
Scratching, sleeping, comforting
Best sister for life
Mischievous
Leanne
Intelligent, cheerful
Amazing, loving, working
Teaching me life lessons
Beautiful
Becky
Crazy, cheerful
Caring, comforting, laughing
Never ever giving up
Everything!
Mrs Malbon
Lovely, intelligent
Guiding, supporting, comforting
Best teacher for life
Beautiful
Ben
Strong, kind
Caring, loving, helping
Always makes me smile
Dad
Sally
Lovely, cheerful,
Guiding, trusting, caring
Best mum for life
Beautiful
Donne
Intelligent, cute
Loving, amazing, laughing
Best friend for life
Mischievous
Mrs Malbon
Lovely, beautiful
Caring, loving. persisting
Always my favourite person
Teacher
Andrew
Humorous, strong
Supporting, comforting, loving
Always there for me
Coaching
Cody
Crazy, curious
Laughing, comforting, scratching
Best friend for life
Mischievous
Jess
Intelligent, beautiful
Amazing, coaching, comforting
Supporting me through life
Caring
Summer
Cheerful, curious
Playing, crying, sleeping
Making me not bored
Mischievious
Mrs. Malbon
Yr. 3/4/5/6 Fridays
Fridays have been very busy in 3/4/5/6 this term as students navigate a whole new classroom, with different students and a different teacher. This has gone very smoothly, which is a credit to all children. Organisation has been the key! Children are expected to bring their belongings (pencil cases/stamina reading book) into the middle classroom on Thursday afternoon so that they are prepared and ready to learn as soon as we enter the classroom, Friday morning.
We start the day with a number of facts speed sheet, which the children love and in fact it was requested by Year 6 this year, following on from our Friday practice last year. It is wonderful to see the progression of all children in this time. The emphasis is on doing your best and improving your score, not on what others are doing. In week 8 we celebrated the success of a number of our students who went up a level for the very first time – these students have worked every bit as hard as the students who have gone up a level every week – we are very proud of all of their efforts! Ask your children to demonstrate “clapping” in Auslan, you might be surprised. We cheered on our successful students that week, in Auslan as not everybody in our class likes the noise made by 28 people enthusiastically clapping!
In Science we are learning about properties of different materials. We have considered the best materials to use for a number of different items based on what we require of these objects, and we have looked at the functional, manufacturing and economical properties of different materials. Last week we considered what materials we might use if we were building a tiny house. We were given a budget and had to consider a number of possible materials we could use for different things in our house (flooring/heating/cooling/walls/windows). We had to choose why we might choose one material over another, what was important to us and what we might need to consider so that we stayed within our budget. This week our unit culminates with our egg drop experiment – we have already designed our machine but need to build and test it this week.
In Health we are learning about interacting with others in a respectful and thoughtful way and learning to regulate our emotions.
In Visual Arts we have looked at artwork from a number of famous artists from Asia and Australia. It was interesting to see the way that Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama uses spots and dots in her artwork compared to our First Nations Australian artists. We also looked at the artwork of Sidney Nolan and were inspired with a directed drawing based on one of his Ned Kelly paintings. Currently we are learning about different brushstrokes to use in our paintings to add variety and interest. We will use these techniques in our final masterpiece! We can’t wait to share it with you!
Mrs. Groombridge
Yr. 5/6 News
In Religion, we have been studying prophets in the Bible, the Easter story and Jewish festivals. We learnt all about Passover and the Passover festival. Passover, in Judaism, holiday commemorating the Hebrews’ liberation from slavery in Egypt and the “passing over” of the forces of destruction, or the sparing of the firstborn of the Israelites, when the Lord “smote the land of Egypt” on the eve of the exodus. I am sure they will let you know what they have discovered! As a class, we made some unleavened bread and had some ‘wine’ (apple juice) and linked the prophet Miriam and the story of baby Moses with Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt.
During Mathematics, we have calculated perimeter and area, percentages of numbers and rounded decimal numbers to the nearest… everything! We are so much more confident now than we were at the start on this learning concept.
Mrs. Busiko
O'Donnell's Pie Drive
O'Donnell's Pie Drive fundraiser is happening again this year thanks to the PEN. Extra forms are available from the office if required.
Orders to be returned by Tuesday 29th April.
Money to be paid via transfer to school bank account. Please ensure reference of family name and PIE DRIVE on the deposit please.
Account Details: St Francis de Sales
BSB: 064786
Account: 100 023 789