Term 3 - Week 4 (2nd August, 2024)

From The Principal

Dear Families, 

Reaching all children, the shift in teaching- Our parents of children in years Prep to 3 will have noticed a change in how we are teaching reading. This is not just a change that you will see at Sacred Heart. This will be a change witnessed nationally and internationally. However, while other schools in Queensland are slowly phasing in this new way of doing things in teaching our children to be literate, our teachers are leading the way with these practices being implemented immediately for our children. Why the change? 

Since the 1930’s, there has been something referred to as ‘The Reading Wars’. These ‘wars’ were debates over which method of literacy instruction was best for teaching a child to read. Researchers and educators went from supporting the ‘whole language approach’, to supporting the ‘balanced literacy approach’ before finally moving to where we are now, a ‘research-based approach’ or what you will see and hear referred to as ‘The Science of Reading’.  

The ‘whole language approach’, taught from about the 1930s to the 1980s, relied on children having to memorise words and use strategies to predict unknown words. While many researchers, due to poor reading progress in children, began to swing back to teaching phonics (letter sounds) and phonological awareness (letter sound combinations), teachers were not doing this explicitly enough, and were still teaching prediction strategies to read unknown words. Children who managed to learn how to read well under these approaches, relied heavily on a language rich home and not having any reading challenges (e.g. Dyslexia). Both approaches required a person to rely heavily on their ability to memorise words, something that children with language challenges already have difficulty with. These ways of teaching saw the ‘rich getting richer, and the poor getting poorer’. 

The science is now conclusive and supports the ‘Simple View of Reading’. This view of reading is that teaching word recognition (i.e. teaching letter sounds to identify words), and language comprehension skills (i.e. vocabulary, word origins etc.) together, produces skilled readers. The science also supports the idea of explicit instruction in these skills because it supports the way our brains learn – through a structured approach of building up knowledge, not hoping we’ll ‘pick it up’. 

Even though the main trigger for this change is the latest version of the Australian Curriculum (Version 9), our teachers are responding with urgency because they believe in the capacity for this science proven way of teaching to reach all children. We are excited by the impact we are already seeing this have on our children. 

If you would like to learn more about the ‘Science of Reading’, the first 5 minutes of this video gives an outline of the ‘what’ and the ‘why’ of this approach - Science of Reading

God bless, 

Mr Tyronne Maher

From The APRE

I hope you are all keeping warm! Winter has certainly been showing it’s head around the school. Please ensure all clothing is clearly named to ensure we can return it to your child. 

Catholic Education Week 
Last week we celebrated 175 years of Catholic Education in Queensland during Catholic Education Week. The theme for this year was Communities of 'Faith, Hope and Love', with a focus on love.  

There was a lot going on around the school to celebrate- we had mass on Monday, a Sausage Sizzle and open classrooms on Tuesday, a colouring-in competition and some senior students participated in the annual Netball and Touch carnivals on Thursday. Staff had the opportunity to gather with other catholic schools to network and listen to Graeme Connors share his story through song. 

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 13

Next

Winter Woollies Free Dress 

On Wednesday (31st July), the Mini Vinnies group organised a winter free dress day to raise money for St Vincent De Paul. Thank you to everyone who came in dressed up and donated a gold coin to this charity. We raised just under $290! 

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 10

Next

Father's Day Afternoon Tea 

In Week 8 (Monday 26th August), we will be celebrating Father's Day. We invite all Dads, Pops, Pas and father figures to attend our afternoon. Classrooms will be open from 1:45 followed by Year 2/3C leading a liturgy in the hall and concluding with a shared afternoon tea for our visiting Father Figures. 

 Mrs Katie Horne

Prayer of the Week

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. 

From The Middle Leader/Curriculum Co-ordinator

Whole Body Listening and Being Ready to Learn 

In the classrooms at Sacred Heart Primary School, teachers talk to the children about the importance of whole body listening and being ready to learn in our primary school environment. These valuable skills play a significant role in shaping our students' educational journey and personal development. 

Whole body listening is an essential aspect of effective communication and active engagement. It encourages students to use their senses and body language to demonstrate attentiveness. By maintaining eye contact, sitting up straight, and keeping their hands and feet still, students show respect to their teachers and peers. This practice fosters better understanding, enhances concentration, and promotes a positive classroom environment where everyone's contributions are valued. 

Equally important is being ready to learn. When students arrive at school prepared and mentally focused, they maximize their learning potential. Being ready to learn involves having breakfast, wearing the correct uniform, being punctual to school and approaching each lesson with enthusiasm and a positive attitude. It empowers students to actively participate, ask questions, and contribute to class discussions, fostering a collaborative and engaging learning environment. 

By cultivating whole body listening and readiness to learn, we equip our primary students with essential skills that extend beyond the classroom. These skills enhance their communication abilities, build resilience, and set them on a path to success both academically and personally. 

We encourage families to reinforce these principles at home by promoting active listening during family conversations and creating a supportive environment that encourages curiosity and a love for learning. 

Together, we can continue to nurture an atmosphere where whole body listening and readiness to learn are celebrated and cherished, empowering our young learners to reach their full potential. 

Mrs Charlie Barrett

From the Learning Support Teacher

The Role of the TCS Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) 

Within our Toowoomba Catholic School’s (TCS) we have a number of specialist support staff in the areas of Speech Language Pathology, Occupational Therapy and Physical and Sensory Impairment. 

Currently we only have 3 Speech Pathologists for all the schools in our Diocese.  They are, therefore, only available to work in a consultancy capacity, rather than provide speech therapy to students. 

In Term 1, the Speech Pathologist does an observation of the Prep classes to identify any students who may require support through private speech pathology. The Learning Support Teacher works closely with the SLP to conduct speech screeners throughout the year to monitor student progress. 

Support from the TCS Speech Pathologist may be requested through the Student Support Committee Process for students who are not progressing as expected and where possible developmental language problems (ie listening, speaking, reading, and writing) may exist.  The TCS Speech pathologist may, in specific cases, conduct a full language assessment of a student.  As the Speech Pathologist is only available for one visit each term, they are not able to conduct many assessments, so priority must be given to those students with the greatest need.   

Speech difficulties including incorrect pronunciation and stuttering are best supported by a private Speech Pathologist.  Many students come into our school already receiving speech services through NDIS Early Childhood funding.  It is preferred, if parents do have concerns with their child’s development, that this support is received prior to entering school, as early intervention can be most effective in resolving problems.   NDIS funding is also more accessible for below school age children. 

The school is happy to communicate with private Speech Pathologists, so we can provide reinforcement and support of the student’s speech goals within daily class activities. 

Mrs Genny McNair

Classroom Awards

Prep Enrolment

The Arts

CHOIR:

Every Thursday afternoon 2.55-3.30pm in the Music Room.  

The choir is available for all students in Year 3 to 6. We are currently working towards preparing new songs for Sacred Heart Idol in Week 8. 

If you would like your child to be involved in the choir, please contact Cherie Runciman, cherie.runciman@twb.catholic.edu.au  or send them along next Thursday after school.   

SACRED HEART IDOL:

FINALS will be on Thursday 29th August. 

 Students need to be in Years 3-6 to enter this talent competition.  

Auditions will be held during Week 5 at breaktime. A timetable with names for the auditions will be posted on the student's office window and The Arts window. Parents and members of the community are welcome to attend auditions and the Sacred Heart School Idol Final. 

It is the students’ responsibility to organise all props, costumes, music or any other materials they require for their performance. A student who is not prepared for their audition may not be rescheduled due to time restraints. If a student is absent on the day of audition, an alternative audition date will be given.  

 Finalists for the competition will be announced after each audition day. 

DANCE CLUB:

The Senior and Junior Dance Club participated in the Toowoomba Eisteddfod Thursday 1st August. The two groups represented the school with great pride and achieved outstanding results for our first Dance Eisteddfod. 

Junior Dance Club: Jazz Group (Highly Commended), Music Theatre Group (1st Place) 

Senior Dance Club: Jazz Group (Very High Commended), Hip Hop (1st Place) 

INSTRUMENTAL PROGRAM:
Lessons will continue on Wednesday with Miss Joy for Term 3.

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 

Ms Cherie Runciman

Library News

BOOK WEEK: 19th – 23rd August, 2024 
Our Book Week activities will be held this year in Week 7 (Aug 19th - 23rd).
The theme for Book Week this year is “Reading is Magic”.
There will be the usual favourites:

 - Book Week Dress Up Parade – Thursday 22nd August at 8:30am in the school hall. 
Students are invited to come dressed as their  favourite book character or dress up around this year's theme.  

 - Short Listed Titles: Reading of shortlisted titles & follow up activities.  

 - Reader’s Cup Competition: Wednesday 21st until Friday 23rd August  

- Book Fair opening times:  
*Monday 19th August: CLOSED
* Tuesday 20th and Wednesday 21st August - 8:00am to 8:30am, 3:00pm to 3:30pm   
*Thursday 22nd August – 8:00am to 8:30am, 9:30 – 10:00am (Parents only), 3:00pm to 3.30pm 
* Friday 23rd August - 8.00am to 8.30am ONLY  

We will be holding our annual Book Warehouse Book Fair during this week. There will be a large variety of books for sale at prices to suit everyone. This is a wonderful opportunity to buy some great books and help the library gain new resources as the school receives 30% of the total sales as our Commission.  

 We are looking for volunteers to assist with the running of the book fair. Our busiest times are during the first two days. Please contact the library if you can help during Book Fair Opening times. 

Mrs Jan Watkins

Meal Deal - Term 3

MEAL DEAL for Term 3 

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

 Week 8 of Term 3  -  Wednesday 28th August, 2024 

 $5 meal deal – Sausage in Bread & Snow Cone 

Gluten free option available 

Orders on Flexischools - Link below

Sport

West Zone Schools Track and Field Carnival 
Next Tuesday (6th August) 22 qualifying students will be representing our school at the West Zone Track and Field Carnival at O’Quinn Street Oval. We wish them all the best as they run, jump and throw their best. 

Rangers Tee-Ball Visit 
Next Wednesday, a representative from Rangers Tee-Ball will be coming along to share the skills of Tee-Ball with some classes during HPE.  

Sporting Success 
Congratulations to Lillie Gilbert (Year 6B), for being chosen for the Darling Downs Rugby League team. Lillie will be playing at the State Championships at the end of the term. We wish her all the best! 

 Mrs Katie Horne and Miss Elley Pinnuck

St Saviour's College - Principal's Tour

2024 Fee Schedule

Term 3 School Fees have been billed to family accounts and fall due on Wednesday 31st July 2024. 

The School accepts a Bank Transfer, Direct Debit or Centrepay as payment of fees.  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 a Public Holiday falls on a Uniform Shop day, the Uniform Shop will be closed.

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

Sacred Heart Parish

Tennis Coaching 2024