Term 1 - Week 6 (1st March, 2024)

From The Principal

Dear Families, 

Challenge and Learning - James Nottingham, an educator, is the mastermind behind the concept of the ‘Learning Pit’. This metaphorical pit fosters a culture of challenge, curiosity, reflection, and resilience in our children. It’s a space intentionally created by teachers and parents to facilitate learning. We’ve all found ourselves in this metaphorical pit at some point. 

Now, let’s consider problem-solving strategies—like buying a new car. As adults, we don’t typically call our mothers for help or break down in the service station. Instead, we follow a series of steps: 

• Selling our old car to the local wrecking yard.
• Asking friends about their car preferences.  
• Researching available cars in the local area. 
• Investigating fuel-efficient models. 
  

When we persevere and successfully solve the problem, we experience feelings of relief and triumph. But here’s the crucial point: if our only strategy were to “get someone else to do it,” we wouldn’t be challenged, and we wouldn’t truly learn. 

Challenge is essential for learning and overall well-being. When children possess effective strategies for success, we feel encouraged to invest in new learning opportunities. Moreover, being “in the pit” isn’t so bad; with perseverance and confidence, we can climb out and feel accomplished. 

NAPLAN Online - During weeks 8, 9 and 10 of this term, our Year 3 and 5 students will engage in the National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN). This program, once conducted on paper, has now transitioned to an online format. In addition to classroom preparation, our Year 3 and 5 students will participate in a practice test where they can familiarise themselves with the assessment’s online structure. These practice tests can be found on the public demonstration site if you would like to have a look. 

The assessment window runs from the 13th to the 25th of March. Children will participate in writing, reading, Mathematics, and language conventions (i.e. grammar and spelling) assessments. These assessments provide a snapshot of a child’s performance on a specific day. The data collected from these tests complements other evidence that teachers use to identify student needs. Armed with this information, teachers can tailor their teaching to address those needs effectively. 

God bless, 

Mr Tyronne Maher

From The APRE

I cannot believe that it is over half way through Term 1! 

Teachers and students have well and truly settled into the routines of Term 1 and are working hard with their learning. I have had the pleasure of walking around and witnessing the teaching and learning that is happening throughout the school. Over the last week, each class has had a session at ‘Life Education’, where Natalie and Harold have shared their knowledge of being safe and healthy. I also had the opportunity to watch students engage in a variety of reading and math activities. Year 5R was delighted to share that their new laptops have arrived and the Prep students shared stories about what they love about being at Sacred Heart. 

On Monday our Mini Vinnies group of volunteers met to discuss what we can do as a school community to help those in our community and the world. Throughout the year we will be holding a few fundraisers including free-dress days, fun days and the end of year Christmas Appeal. All money raised will be donated to St Vincent DePaul to support all the work that they do to support families in our local community. Thank you to all families for your ongoing support. 

This week we also finalised our Student Representative Council (SRC) committee. Each class voted for two representatives that they believe are approachable and confident to share student voice. We meet and discussed what we started last year, and where to go from here. The SRC committee have some fantastic ideas of how we can improve and share our school values, learning and wellbeing.

Congratulations to our SRC Committee for 2024: 

Year 3 -  Slaina Hagin (2/3C) 

           - Arsheyah Isidto & Lachie Hadley (3C) 

Year 4 - Brydee Nelson & Charli Quinlann 

Year 5 - Makenzie Gwynne & Vincent Slape 

Year 6 - Alia Fraser & Noah Van Giersbergen  

Anita Juac & Ben Barron (School Captains) 

 Mrs Katie Horne

Student Protection Contacts

School Student Protection Contacts (SSPC) 
Our school has five School Student Protection Contacts. Mr Maher, Mrs Jackman, Mrs Horne, Mrs Barrett and Ms Campbell. These are nominated staff members to whom students, staff and parents can raise concerns related to student safety. Although School Student Protection Contacts receive additional training, all school staff receive regular training and information to enable them to respond to student protection concerns. 

Prayer of the Week

From the Learning Support Teacher

Free Hearing Screeners for Prep Students 

The hearing health of your child is vital in their access to educational, social and emotional development. Even a mild hearing loss can mean that your child may be missing 25% of the speech that occurs in the classroom – that is one in four words! Hearing loss (whether permanent or fluctuating) can also be linked to fatigue, disengagement in school and social skills development. 

What can cause hearing loss? 

Hearing loss can be permanent, caused by hereditary or genetic conditions, diseases, or trauma from loud noises or injuries. 

Temporary (or conductive) hearing loss can result from wax build up, excess mucus or fluid in the eustachian tube caused by colds and runny noses, and otitis media from middle ear infections. 

Fluctuating conductive hearing loss, caused by fluid and otitis media is the most common cause of hearing loss in young children.  Otitis media can exist for weeks and even months, without any symptoms of pain and fever.  Regular hearing screening is important in detecting hearing concerns to provide our students with the best chance of success at school. 

This year we are fortunate to be able to offer hearing screening to our students through Sound Scouts.  This is an app that has been created in conjunction with Hearing Australia.   

Hearing screening will be conducted for Prep students later this term. Permission forms will be sent home this week.  Please complete these and return to school as soon as possible.   

We strongly encourage all Prep students to be included in this free screening program. 

Mrs Genny McNair

From The Middle Leader/Curriculum Co-ordinator

NUMERACY  

Numeracy is a vital learning area because it is a fundamental skill that empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of the modern world. Numeracy goes beyond basic arithmetic; it involves understanding and interpreting numerical information, making informed decisions based on data, and solving real-world problems. Proficiency in numeracy enhances critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and quantitative reasoning, essential for success in various academic and professional domains. Moreover, in an era dominated by technology and data, numeracy is a key component in fostering a workforce capable of contributing to innovation and economic development. By incorporating numeracy into our curriculum, we equip individuals with the tools needed to analyse information, make sound judgments, and participate actively in an increasingly quantitative society. 

The foundation laid in the early years is crucial, and in our Prep classes, the focus is on cultivating a love for numbers through interactive activities. From counting games to simple problem-solving, our youngest learners are gently introduced to the magical world of numeracy, setting the stage for a lifelong appreciation of mathematics. 

Throughout this journey, the cultivation of a growth mindset is an integral part of our approach. We believe that every student has the potential to develop and excel in numeracy, and embracing challenges is a pathway to growth. At Sacred Heart, students are encouraged to view mistakes as opportunities to learn, fostering resilience and perseverance in the face of mathematical puzzles. As they progress, the application of a growth mindset becomes even more pronounced. Complex problem-solving and advanced mathematical concepts are met with enthusiasm, as students understand that their abilities can be developed through dedication and effort. 

In upper years, we focus on preparing students for advanced mathematical concepts through diverse learning approaches. Students develop fluency in concepts, procedures, and problem-solving, fostering proficiency to make informed decisions in various situations. By Year 6, students graduate with a well-rounded numeracy skill set and a growth mindset, poised for mathematical challenges in secondary education and beyond. Our holistic approach aims to instil proficiency and genuine enthusiasm for the beauty and logic of numbers in understanding the world. 

Mrs Charlie Barrett

From the Guidance Counsellor

Time Online 

How much is too much? There is no magic figure. The right amount of screen time can depend on a range of factors like your child’s age and maturity, the kind of content they are consuming, their learning needs and your family routine. It can be easy to focus only on the clock, but the quality and nature of what they are doing online, and your involvement, are just as important. 

Here are some tips to help your child manage their online time from Esafety.gov.au   

• Stay engaged and encourage balance — keep an eye on the games, apps and devices your child uses by sharing screen time with them. Help them stay aware of their important offline activities, like hobbies and sports. 
• Create a plan — involve your child in creating a family plan that balances time spent sitting in front of screens, with a variety of offline activities. 
• Use the available technologies — parental controls and tools to monitor online time which allows you to measure and set time limits on device use or internet access. Be honest and open with your children about why you want to use these technologies. 
• For more advice and resources to help support your child to look after their mental wellbeing on social media and apps, or understand parental controls, watch the video on the safety website on digital technologies and mental health or our 6-minute video on parental controls. 

Signs to watch for:  

• less interest in social activities like meeting friends or playing sport 
• not doing so well at school 
• tiredness, sleep disturbance, headaches, eye strain 
• changes in eating patterns 
• reduced personal hygiene 
• obsession with particular websites or games 
• extreme anger when being asked to take a break from online activity 
• appearing anxious or irritable when away from the computer 
• becoming withdrawn from friends and family

Further tips and advice can be found from the Esafety website (link below):

Mrs Sarah Jackman

The Arts

SAVE THE DATE: 

Easter Pageant 
Friday 22nd March, 9am (School Hall) 

This event showcases each class with an item and whole school singing. This year the Year 6 students will be bringing the story to life through drama, with each class enhancing the performance with their song. 

I am looking for some help in building/creating some props. I need 12 palm leaves made or sourced and costumes 12 disciples, Jesus and 4 guards. If this is something that you would be able to help with, please contact me asap. cherie.runciman@twb.catholic.edu.au  

The whole school will be wearing their school uniform for the performance, except for 6B who will need costumes. Their requirements will be sent through weekly words and through Parent Sentral notices. 

Choir 

Open to students in Grades: 3-6 
Thursday after school 2.55 – 3.30pm (Music Room)   
2024 Performances: Easter Pageant, Toowoomba Eisteddfod, Sacred Heart Idol, Christmas Concert, School Masses. 

Dance Club 

Junior Dance Club (Year 3 and 4) – Thursday during lunch 1 – 1.40pm (Music Room)   
Senior Dance Club (Year 5 and 6) -  Friday during lunch 1 – 1.40pm (Music Room)   
2024 Performances: Easter Pageant, Toowoomba Eisteddfod, Sacred Heart Idol, Christmas Concert 

Sacred Heart Band 

Open to students in Grades: by invitation by Miss Jessie Joy 
Wednesday during lunch 1 – 1.40pm (Music Room)   
2024 Performances: Easier Pageant, Sacred Heart Idol, Christmas Concert 

Instrumental Program 

We have been running the instrumental program here at Sacred Heart School for 2 years and currently have over 10% of the school population learning an instrument with our wonderful music tutor, Miss Jessie Joy. 

Thank you to all the parents who are supporting their child/ren in their music education and have enrolled them already in the 2024 program. There is wonderful research that shows that learning an instrument can help a child’s education and well being.  

“Music enhances the education of our children by helping them to make connections and broadening the depth with which they think and feel. If we are to hope for a society of culturally literate people, music must be a vital part of our children’s education.”  – Yo-Yo Ma 

There are still spots available for this year. If you would like to enrol your child, please fill in the online form below or contact me directly via email. Cherie.Runciman@twb.catholic.edu.au  

Course Outline for ‘The Arts’ 

Prep N and Prep C 

Students will develop body awareness (body bases, parts and zones), explore elements of dance (space, time, dynamics and relationships), create dance sequences (locomotor and non-locomotor movement) and experiment with simple technical skills and expressive skills.  

Students will discover how to communicate feelings, explore elements of drama (role, situation, language, place), accept and participate in fictional situations and reflect on their own drama experiences and contributions.  

 1R and 1T 

Students will continue to develop body awareness (body bases, parts and zones), explore elements of dance (space, time, dynamics and relationships), create dance sequences (locomotor and non-locomotor movement) and experiment with simple technical skills and expressive skills. They will explore the different types of dances used in cultures, using “A Hundred Thousand Welcomes” book as a learning tool.  

Students will continue to discover how to communicate feelings, explore elements of drama (role, situation, language, place), accept and participate in fictional situations and reflect on their own drama experiences and contributions. They will explore the different types of drama used in cultures, using “A Hundred Thousand Welcomes” book as a learning tool for this. This learning will be done through different classroom games, songs and dances.  

 2J and 2/3C 

Students will continue to develop body awareness (body bases, parts and zones), explore elements of dance (space, time, dynamics and relationships), create dance sequences (locomotor and non-locomotor movement) and experiment with simple technical skills and expressive skills, with a focus on African style dance. They will explore dances used in First Nation Culture, using “My Grandmother’s Lingo” interactive app as a learning tool. Students will demonstrate improvised and structured dance routines through class activities.  

Students will continue to discover how to communicate feelings, explore elements of drama (role, situation, language, place), accept and participate in fictional situations and reflect on their own drama experiences and contributions. They will explore and create a drama piece using “My Grandmother’s Lingo” interactive app as inspiration. Students will also participate in group and individual Speech and enunciation activities focusing on diction, projection and changes of emotions. 

 3C 

Students will develop body awareness and explore elements of dance (space, time, dynamics and relationships), create dance sequences (locomotor and non-locomotor movement) and experiment with simple technical skills and expressive skills. Students will discover how to communicate feelings, explore elements of drama (role, situation, language, place), accept and participate in fictional situations and reflect on their own drama experiences and contributions. They will explore dances used in First Nation Culture, using animal tracks as inspiration. Students will demonstrate improvised and structured dance routines and drama improvisation through class activities. 

Students will perform their class item at the Easter Pageant, Week 10, Term 1, Poem in Pairs, Term 2 Week 3 and 4 during class time with the top 3 pairs performing at the Week 6 Drama/Dance concert in Term 2. 

 4M 

Students will develop body awareness and explore elements of dance (space, time, dynamics, and relationships), create dance sequences (locomotor and non-locomotor movement) and experiment with simple technical skills and expressive skills. They will explore dances used in First Nation Culture, using Song Cycles as inspiration.  

Students will discover how to communicate feelings, explore elements of drama (role, situation, language, place), accept and participate in fictional situations and reflect on their own drama experiences and contributions through classroom activities. 

Students will perform their class item at the Easter Pageant, Week 10, Term 1, Poem in Pairs, Term 2 Week 3 and 4 during class time with the top 3 pairs performing at the Week 6 Drama/Dance concert in Term 2. 

 5R 

Students will be exploring the Elements of Dance and Drama throughout this semester with a focus on First Nation examples. The Elements of Dance include space, time, dynamics and relationships, locomotor and non-locomotor movement and expressive techniques. The Elements of Drama are role, situation, language, and place. As a class we will use dreamtime stories as our inspiration and create a whole class dance routine and a play. These will be performed during the Drama/Dance Concert, Week 6, Term 2. 

During the semester students will have the opportunity to demonstrate improvised and structured pieces of dance/drama during classroom games, songs and other activities. 

Students will also perform their class item at the Easter Pageant, Week 10, Term 1. 

6B 

Students will be exploring the Elements of Dance and Drama throughout this semester using Fractured Fairy tales as our inspiration. The Elements of Dance include space, time, dynamics and relationships, locomotor and non-locomotor movement and expressive techniques. The Elements of Drama are role, situation, language, and place. As a class we will use different fairy tales that the students know and create a whole class dance routine and a play. These will be performed during the Drama/Dance Concert, Week 6, Term 2. 

During the semester students will have the opportunity to demonstrate improvised and structured pieces of dance/drama during classroom games, songs, and other activities. 

Students will be heavily involved in the Easter Pageant performance this year. They will be able to participate in either a spoken role or acting, plus the whole school singing. The Easter Pageant is Thursday, Week 10, Term 1. 

Ms Cherie Runciman

Welcome to the Scholastic Book Club

Please take the catalogues home and have a look at the great books!!!!

You need to place your completed order online by
3pm, Monday 18th March 2024

“Book Club Loop” is the ONLY method for ordering and payment.

Please do not send any orders or cash to school.

All orders will be delivered to school for distribution to your child’s classroom.

Please refer to the list below for your child’s class name:

HAPPY READING!!!!!

Follow the steps for ordering by referring to the information below:

School Photos 2024 - Thursday, 14th March

Student Late Arrival / Early Departure

Please note that our sign in/out system has changed for students arriving late or departing early.  Parents are asked to please come to the Student Services Entrance and use our electronic system.  Administration staff will assist you with this if required.  Thank you for your support.

Meal Deals for Term 1

MEAL DEAL for Term 1 

Funds raised support the 2024 Seniors and their end of year Grad Mag publication 

 Weeks 9 of Term 1 

Wednesday: 20th March 2024 

 $5 meal deal – sausage in bread & snow cone 

Gluten free option available 

Orders on Flexischools - See the link below to register

2024 Fee Schedule

Term 1 School Fees have been charged to family accounts and sent via email.   The School accepts payment as a Bank Transfer, Direct Debit or Centrepay.  To set up an automatic payment please complete the Direct Debit Form below.  If you need assistance please contact the School Office.

The Uniform Shop

Uniform Shop hours:
Mondays (THIS INCLUDES PUPIL FREE DAYS) & Thursdays 8.00am - 10:30am 
If Monday is a PUBLIC holiday, the Uniform Shop will open on the following Tuesday.

PLEASE NOTE: WE CAN NO LONGER ACCEPT DONATIONS OF PRE-LOVED ITEMS
Thank you for your understanding in this regard.

*We accept EFTPOS only - NO CASH OR LAYBY*  

SCHOOL BAGS: School Bags are COMPULSORY to the WHOLE SCHOOL.
Do you have the correct bag?  These are available from the Uniform Shop for $39.50 

SCHOOL PULLOVERS - This is a compulsory uniform item for Years 1 to 6.

SPRAY JACKETS are compulsory for students in Years 1-6 only.
PREP STUDENTS DO NOT REQUIRE SPRAY JACKETS!

FREE BUTTONS available for boys’ red shirt, girls’ red and white blouse & Prep red polo.

Thank you for your continued support of the school’s uniform shop.

 Mrs Fay Rhodes
Uniform Shop Convenor

St Ursula's College Scholarships and Open Day

2025 Scholarship Applications are now OPEN

Available for girls who are:

• Entering Years 7, 8, 9 & 10 in 2025
• Entering Year 7 in 2026

Academic Scholarship Registration is open NOW

Sport and Cultural Scholarships will be offered in Term 2

Applications and all supporting documents must be received by 3:30pm, Friday 15 March 2024

Our Academic Scholarship Examination will be held on Saturday 23 March 2024 from 8:30am – 11:30am, at St Ursula’s College B Block Rome Street.

For further information, please click here  Scholarship | St Ursula's College Toowoomba (st-ursula.qld.edu.au)

Tarzan the Stage Musical

This is a brilliant (FREE) opportunity to come and learn what the musical is all about, how to put together your audition information and an opportunity to learn from some very talented creatives who volunteer for TCSYC Productions. 

 Please email to register your interest in attending as we need to know numbers for the day to flow smoothly. 

 ⏰ WHEN - Sunday 24th March. 8:45am for a  9am start and ending at 12pm. 
🗺️ WHERE - Choral Hall – located at the corner of Raff & Bridge Streets, Toowoomba 
🫵🏼WHO - The workshop is open to anyone interested in Youth Choir and the Production. 

You don’t have to join the Youth Choir to be part of the Production 

🎭 WHAT - Opportunities to find out more, meet the team and get valuable tips on singing, dancing and acting for an audition 
📧 HOW - SIGN UP NOW!! Email your interest to choralyouthholidayproduction@gmail.com or sign up through the Holiday 

Sacred Heart Parish

EMFIT Bootcamp

Tennis Coaching 2024