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- Principal's Corner
- FROM THE APA
- APRE News
- Mini Fete
- Swimming Lessons
- Eisteddfod Results
- Group Photos
- HSCS Swimming Carnival
- Student Travel Rebate
- Year 7 Orientation Day
- Tuckshop News
- Breakfast Program
- Pastoral Chaplain's Chat
- Date Claimers
- Defence
- Term Dates 2021
- Uniform Supplies
- Assembly and Bell Times
- Absent from School
- Our Mission Statement
Recently a grandparent emailed me regarding climate change, certainly a newsworthy topic at the moment.
It is not always evident what we are doing throughout the school to be good stewards of our amazing planet. As catholics, caring for planet earth is a key responsibility for us. There are many Champions, with a capital ‘C’ but we need the small ‘c’ champions, who are in our families, our schools, our neighbourhood to make a significant difference in our world.
Pope Francis is one of the Champions, he wrote an encyclical Laudato Si which guides us to make sometimes small changes which can have a significant impact.
I am sure you have seen the installation of the solar panels. I doubt I will see the change in the school electricity bills, but I know our community will reap the benefits in the not too distant future. Holy Spirit Catholic School has a great history of using solar power.
When i4architecture designed our new Admin Block, thought was given to energy saving features. I am sure the words of my father (turn off those lights) will resonate with many - movement detectors ensure lighting is not used unnecessarily and LED lighting is another key feature.
This year, Year 4 students won an eco challenge through the Reef Guardian Program. The signs around our drains are daily reminders to care for our magnificent reef on our front doorstep!
There are many champions amongst the ranks of our students. The students in 5D are champions at recycling and modelling this important action for our younger students. At lunchtimes, they recognise those students in the early years who put items in the containers for recycling.
Small actions such as our ‘Trash n Treasure’ Stalls at the Fete and Mini Fete help to avoid landfill and provide a new home for pre-loved objects (expect some of these items to arrive at your home Friday afternoon!)
It is in our everyday actions that we can all be champions for the environment. The way we model driving a car (economise on fuel), minimise the use of air conditioning, save water and recycle is a powerful and effective way to create champions caring for our planet.
Don’t forget to place those used batteries in our recycling bin located near the library, you might even like to borrow a pre-loved book, yes we offer them to parents and grandparents! So many opportunities for our students to see ‘care for creation’ in action.
God bless!
Geraldine
At Holy Spirit, we have been working hard to teach our students what it means to be a 'Spirit kid'. From this, the term, The Spirit Way, was born. Thanks to our friends Mala, Isabel and Emily ( pictured), our logo is now in every classroom showing the Holy Spirit Culture we live and breathe. The values of Safe, Persistence, Inclusion, Respect, Inspiring and Thankful come from many discussions with parents, students, school board and even input from Father John. We are very thankful for the work these students have done to bring the Spirit Way to life.
Congratulations to Atai, Eli and Mia for the recent efforts in the State Championships for Rugby League. The boys taking the bronze medal in the U11 competition and Mia part of the team to claim silver. We are very proud of our students.
Get in the Spirit
Paul Martin
The disciples, James and John, wanted Jesus to promise them a special place beside Him in Heaven in Sunday’s Gospel. This caused the disciples to argue about which one of them was the greatest and therefore deserved the best place. Jesus reminded them that God the Father decides who deserves a place in heaven and they would be measured by their goodness and willingness to think of others before themselves. Conflicts are inevitable in the playground. Children have different ideas, different solutions and different ways to approach problems. Because of this, it’s important that they learn how to resolve differences peacefully (without giving in) and how to get along well with others.
This week at Holy Spirit we value mercy. Mercy is all about a combination of compassion and forgiveness. In fact, being merciful involves being compassionate and forgiving when someone else does not deserve it. It is very important to discuss with children what mercy is so they can show it to those around them. This week we pray our students be merciful towards other by encouraging them to show compassion and take the time to show kindness to others.
This Friday, our Mini Fete will be held. In the month of October, we as a Catholic Church in Australia focus on supporting missions throughout the world. In our school community we will raise funds to support the Missions with our MINI FETE. Children are encouraged to bring a small amount of money (preferably in change) to participate, have fun and support the Missions. This year, Thailand and the work of the Good Shepherd Sisters are the focus. Class teachers are organising stalls. If you are able to assist, contact your child’s teachers. Thank you all in advance for supporting such a worthy cause.
God bless.
Caroline Fuller
The mini fete is this Friday!
Students are asked to bring loose change to spend at the stalls. A maximum of $5.
Swimming Lessons Prep, Year 1 and 2
In Term 4 our Prep to Year 2 children have swimming lessons. This year we are going to continue with our intensive 30-minute lessons over five days. The lessons will be in Weeks 6, 7 and 8, with each Year Level having five consecutive days of lessons across the week. There will be no cost for parents as this is included in your school fees.
Classes will be transported via bus to and from the Paul Saddler Swimland, Douglas. Qualified instructors will run the program throughout the week. Teachers will also accompany the students to the Swimming Pool.
To participate each day, children are required to have:
- Togs (one piece for girls)
- Sun safe swim shirt
- Slip on shoes
- Towel
- Water bottle
On Tuesday 26th October we will have our group photos taken. This will include, Year 6, Choir, Sporting and Nalgaray groups.
More information to come.
HSCS Swimming Carnival Years 3 to 6
When: Week 8: Friday, 26 November
Where: Long Tan Memorial Pool
It is an expectation that students in Years 3-6 attend and participate. We will have plenty of events to cheer for and some entertaining races to get involved in that are jam packed full of fun. We aim to cater for the wide range of swimming ability on the day. There will be an event for all swimming abilities.
Yours faithfully, and in sport
Mr Brenton Place
P-6 HPE Specialist
Holy Spirit Catholic School uses Flexischools ordering system. To register, login or to place orders, please click this link:
ROSTER |
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14.10.21 |
Helpers wanted |
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15.10.21 |
Sue Viviers, Tim Marrinan, Virginia Novinetz | ||
18.10.21 |
Nicole Boon | ||
19.10.21 |
Anne Fisher, Leigh Robertson, Sue Viviers, Tina McDonough |
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CAKE (We are kindly accepting donations of packet cakes only at this time) | |||
14.10.21 |
Cathy Duvel | ||
15.10.21 |
Mayleen Nona | ||
FRUIT |
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18.10.21 |
Emily Lyons, Martina Mylrea | ||
19.10.21 |
Bernadette Bryant | ||
20.10.21 |
Kat Harrington, Taane Morris |
We are open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8am in the Hall.
Your support with donations of bread, spreads, vegemite, jam etc. (excluding peanut based spreads) would be appreciated.
There are several factors that we need to consider when we are raising and educating girls. It is part nature and part nurture. From biological differences, such as brain development and hormones to societal differences such as gender stereotypes and expectations, raising girls presents different challenges, and equally as many rewards.
Collett Smart presents: Teach girls to build each other up
This webinar shows parents how to help girls create positive peer relationships. It explores emotional intelligence, how to equip girls to recognise their own worth and the worth of others, what girls need from parents and carers when things go wrong in friendships and relationships, when parents need to hold back and when to step in, and strategies for developing both assertiveness and kindness in our girls.
Online course: Parenting girls
Our Parenting girls online course explores the big issues facing girls. Hear and learn from a number of parenting experts on a variety of topics like self-esteem, positive body image, friendship and conflict, emotional intelligence, digital dramas, mental health and sexuality.
Each of the 12 sessions contains a video with an interview or short presentation, some written resources, and an accompanying summary with a short learning activity to help you embed your learning.
Date |
Event |
October |
15.10.21 |
CCC Meeting |
15.10.21 |
Mini Fete |
20.10.21 |
Whole School Assembly |
26.10.21 |
Group Photos |
Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS)
With Telstra upgrades to our old phone lines, our local office phone number has changed, so please update your records J
Our new phone number is 07 4430 3879.
The Townsville office email address is dmfs.townsville@defence.gov.au
Married with Dependents (Unacccompanied) - MWD(U) Information session – face-to-face - Wednesday October 20
Learn more about the benefits, challenges, opportunities and strategies to manage MWD (U) plus understand the supports available.
Hear real-life stories and examples from people who have gone through it.
Register: DMFS Eventbrite MWD(U) Sessions
The (almost) Amazing Race 2021 – Friday October 22
Grab some mates and register a team for our (almost) Amazing Race. Townsville ADF members, singles, couples, and families are invited to team up in this year’s (almost) Amazing Race! Solve riddles, deduce clues and complete challenges as you navigate your way around Norman Park beside Jezzine Barracks on The Strand.
There’s prizes up for grabs including one for “Best Dressed Team”, so have some fun and dress up for the occasion! Join us for a free sausage sizzle afterwards, or bring your own picnic to enjoy.
Numbers are limited, so register your team now!
Where: Norman Park, Jezzine Barracks
When: 4.30pm – 6pm, Friday October 22
Register: The (Almost) Amazing Race – DMFS Townsville
Dogs Day Out – Sunday October 24
ADF members and families are invited to join us for a free morning tea along with their dog/s. Townsville District Police and Neighbourhood Watch will be joining us and providing free "Dogs on Patrol" engraved dog tags. Enjoy a light morning tea and catch up whilst your fur babies enjoy lots of playtime and chewie treats.
This is a free event and light refreshments will be provided.
Where: Riverside Green Park, 18 Freshwater Dr, Douglas
When: 9.00am – 11.00am, Sunday October 24
Eventbrite ticket registration details will be sent out in an e-Newsflash in the next couple of weeks!
My Dad & Me: Creepy Critter Craft – Saturday October 30
ADF dads and their kids are invited to a morning that's all for Dad and the kids. Each month offers different themed activities that allow dads and their kids to connect through fun. This month our theme will be creepy critter crafts!
Keep an eye out on DMFS social media for details and remember, this is a mum free zone, so let her enjoy the morning off!
Where: Geckos Family Centre, Lavarack Barracks
When: 9.30am - 11.00am, Saturday October 30
Eventbrite ticket registration details will be sent in an e-Newsflash in the next few weeks!
RSL QLD Scholarships – 2022 Applications now open
Defence Member and Family Helpline
For advice, support or local community information, contact our all-hours Defence Member and Family Helpline. Run by Defence Member and Family Support, the Helpline is the best way to access the programs and services that we offer to help Defence families manage the military way of life.
The helpline is available 24/7 and is staffed by qualified human services professionals including social workers and psychologists.
Phone 1800 624 608, or email memberandfamilyhelpline@
Term Dates 2021 |
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Term 4 |
Tuesday 5 October 2021 |
Friday 3 December 2021 |
Term Dates 2022 |
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Term 1 |
Monday 24 January 2022 |
Friday 1 April 2022 |
Term 2 |
Tuesday 19 April 2022 |
Friday 24 June 2022 |
Term 3 |
Monday 11 July 2022 |
Friday 16 September 2022 |
Term 4 |
Tuesday 4 October 2022 |
Friday 2 December 2022 |
Pupil Free Day: Friday 2 September 2022 |
All uniform supplies are available at The School Locker, Domain Central (close to Bunnings).
Phone 1800 826 155
Uniform days for students:
Monday and Wednesday - Formal uniform
Tuesday and Thursday - Sports uniform
Friday - own choice
Senior shirts may be worn on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.
Wednesday Assemblies |
|
Prep – Year 2 |
8.40am |
Years 3 – 6 |
2.10pm |
Whole School Assemblies |
8.45am |
Daily Bell Times |
|
8.15 am |
Students are allowed to move to class |
8.30 am |
School day commences |
10.30 am |
Morning tea bell |
10.55 am |
Five minute warning bell |
11.00 am |
School day resumes |
1.00 pm |
Lunch bell |
1.30 pm |
Five minute warning bell |
1.35 pm |
School day resumes. |
2.50 pm |
School day concludes |
If your child is going to be absent, please enter the details through Compass, as this is the most efficient way to inform the school.