28 October 2024

Term 4-Week 3

• Monday 28th October 2024
  
  • Cuppa before Assembly from 8:30am in the Hall
  • Assembly led by 2I @ 9:00am 
  • 2nd Kindergarten Orientation 9.15am -10.45am -Library
• Tuesday 29th October 2024
  • PR Committee Meeting @ Recess
• Wednesday 30th October 2024
  
  • Musica Viva 11am-3pm
• Thursday 31st October 2024

  • Instrument Testing Day-Yr 2

  • Prayer Gathering-The Rosary @9am in Hall (All welcome to join us in prayer)
• Friday 1st November 2024
  • Kindergarten Frozen Excursion-BMEC - 10am-12pm
  • Solemnity of All Saints Mass- Cathedral Church -  10am - All Welcome
  • Stage 3 Gymnastics - Weeks 1-4

Term 4-Week 4

• Monday 4th November 2024
  
  • Cuppa before Assembly from 8:30am in the Hall
  • Assembly led by 1M @ 9:00am 
  • 3rd Kindergarten Orientation 9.15am -10.45am -Library
    
  • U12 Girls League Tag Gala
  • Yr 5 Leadership Day
• Tuesday 5th November 2024
  • Crazy Hat Day (Gold Coin Doation)
  • PR Committee Meeting @ Recess
• Wednesday 6th November 2024
  
  • P&F Meeting @ 5.30pm in Library
• Thursday 7th November 2024

  • 'Voices of Grace' Liturgical Music Day
    

• Friday 8th November 2024
  • Cathedral Fete
    
  • Stage 3 Gymnastics - Weeks 1-4 
    

2024 Important Dates

More important dates listed here 

For those with a Google Account the calendar can be added to your Google calendars
for easy access on your phone or device

From the Principal

This week is an important week in our church as we celebrate the solemnity of All Saints Day. Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis has reminded us that although at times we  feel that we may be falling short, just like the Saints that have come before us, Jesus continually calls us back. We are all called to be Saints.

We also have many families in our school celebrating Diwali - Festival of Lights this week. Diwali celebrates the winning of light over darkness. We wish all of our Cathedral families a Happy Diwali!

 We  pray that in the spirit of interfaith unity that we may all lead our children to be shining lamps;  honouring and respecting the beliefs and traditions of those with whom  we share this beautiful land.

Camille da Silva Tavares   | Principal

2025 Classes and Transition

Our teachers have worked hard to create balanced class lists for 2025. This has included the balance of students requiring support, extension and acknowledgement. Students will be notified of these classes on Friday 13th December right before their transition visits to their new classrooms and where possible with their new teachers. 

With the large number of staff on leave our arrangement of staff on classes will probably look quite different in 2025 and will not be finalised until later in the term. 

Please refrain from contacting teachers or the leadership team around class placements as we are unable to accommodate individual requests for teachers or placement of students with other students.

Afternoon Pick Up

In an effort to keep our students safe at pick up time, please read the following reminders: 

Walkers - Only students walking to a workplace or home should join the walkers. If you are picking your child up and you are parked across any nearby road, then you need to walk over to school to collect your child from the William St or George St collection point.

Teachers only escort students across the crossings on William, Keppel and George Sts. Students are then left to make their way home. Please ensure that your child has the knowledge of and ability to walk the safest route home before allowing them to cross busy streets. Please note that not all streets around the school have pedestrian crossings and our teachers do not escort students across these streets.

George St - If collecting students on the Geroge St exit, please walk to students who will be seated on the pavers for collection. Students are not allowed to meet you on the street. If parked on the opposite side of the road, please use the pedestrian crossing and do not cross in front of or behind buses.

William St - If collecting students on the William St exit, please collect students from the gate. If parked on the opposite side of the road please use the pedestrian crossing on William St.

Please hold your child’s hand when exiting the school grounds.

We thank you for supporting these procedures and for modelling safe and calm behaviours at pick up time.

Teaching and Learning

Civics & Citizenship Excursion

Our enthusiastic student leaders from Cathedral School Bathurst embarked on an action-packed civics and citizenship excursion to Canberra! Last week it was my pleasure to coordinate and attend the annual education tour of the national capital. Students were given the opportunity to participate in a variety of educational programs with a focus on Australia’s history, culture, heritage, and democracy.  

The adventure began at the National Capital Exhibition, setting the stage for an inspiring journey through our nation's capital. Our whirlwind tour continued with what one student described as an ‘inspirational’  guided walk along ANZAC Parade, where students were deeply moved by the significance of the service monuments. Their visit to the Australian War Memorial was particularly poignant, as Year 6 paid their respects with solemnity and reflection. They look forward to sharing their insights and experiences with classmates as we approach Remembrance Day.

The excitement continued at the Australian Institute of Sport, where Year 6 participated in a behind-the-scenes tour and engaged in athletic challenges. After a delicious dinner at Coffers Cafe, the students enjoyed fun and games at iPlay Australia! 

On day two we commenced  with a hearty breakfast (or two), followed by a visit to Mount Ainslie and a tour of various embassies. The day culminated in an engaging experience at Questacon and a visit to Parliament House, reinforcing the importance of our democracy.

A heartfelt thank you to all the students and staff involved in making this journey a memorable and enriching experience. We look forward to sharing more about our adventures in the coming weeks!

For some highlight pictures of our excursion please visit the school’s facebook page.

The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education.  To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government is contributing funding of $30 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs. The rebate is paid directly to the school upon completion of the excursion.

Learning Snapshot | Mathematics

Engaging with your child about their learning can greatly enhance their understanding. Here are some exciting topics our classes are covering in Weeks 3, 4, and 5 of the term. We hope this information sparks meaningful mathematical conversations and fun challenges at home!

Ashley Boylan   | Acting Assistant Principal

Religious Education & Catholic Life

“Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you!” Luke 1:28

THE ROSARY

This Thursday 31st October at 9.00am is our final prayer gathering for The Rosary. We will be meditating on the Glorious Mysteries as we pray The Rosary. You are most welcome to join us in prayer.

SACRAMENTAL PROGRAMME 

LAST OPPORTUNITIES to register for 2024 - Registrations for the Sacraments of First Penance and First Holy Communion. Please contact the Parish Office this week if possible if you wish for your child to receive one of the above mentioned Sacraments. NOTE: Confirmation enrolments have now concluded for 2024 - students will have the opportunity to enrol in Confirmation for 2025.

PARISH RETREAT

Attached is to the newsletter is a flyer for the Parish Retreat Week that commences today. 

You are invited to participate in any and/or all of the events as members of our Parish. 

Parish Retreat Week : 28th October-2nd November

The retreat is being led by Fr Hugh Thomas, a Redemptorist priest, with close to 40 years involvement in the healing ministry will be giving talks across the whole week. There will also be Adoration in the Presbytery Chapel from 6am-10pm each day during Oct 28-Nov 2.  Please sign up: https://signup.com/go/JKUkNKO

IN OUR PARISH
We are proud to be an important part of the Cathedral Parish of Ss Michael & John.   For information about our parish please click here. This includes Mass Times, Ministries, Sacraments and current edition and archived stories from the Catholic Observer and Parish Bulletin. 

Coming Up: School Events

Julia Baird  | Acting Religious Education Coordinator

Student Representative Council

Thanks to our successful Catch a Duck Competition we have now placed a deposit on a school mascot outfit!

We encourage you to visit the Catch a Duck Stall at the Fete so we can raise the money to pay for the rest of the outfit.

Awards

Library

Please help your child remember their Library bag and books on their Library day.

Merryn Sadler   | Teacher Librarian

SPB4L - School Wide Positive Behaviours for Learning

‘We are respectful and inclusive during play’

Last week, our students made wonderful strides in self-reflection, taking time each afternoon to reflect on their personal learning experiences and their efforts toward being a Cathedral School Super Learner. Teachers observed high engagement in this process, with students consistently striving to bring their best to each learning task. Well done, everyone!

Our next focus shifts outdoors to our play areas, where we’ll be concentrating on respectful and inclusive interactions. The playground is a space where small misunderstandings or conflicts can arise as children navigate these times more independently. Over the next three weeks, our focus will be on continuing to devlope social skills, encouraging students to handle these situations respectfully, responsibly, and kindly.

We also remind students that three staff members are always on playground duty to support them, and they are encouraged to seek help whenever needed.

Parents can reinforce this school-wide focus by discussing topics such as turn-taking, sharing equipment, including others in games, letting others choose activities, speaking positively, using assertive (but respectful) language, seeking help, walking away from situations they find uncomfortable, and being an “upstander.”

Julia Baird  | SPB4L Committee

Wellbeing

Cathedral School was able to show their appreciation to the Lions Club of Mount Panorama for their donation to our Breakfast Club program at Assembly last week. Thank you to the Lions Club and President Sally Coopes for attending our Assembly.

HATS

There are still many children that do not have a school hat to wear. Parents, could you please help your child find their hat or purchase them a new one. If there are any issues in this area, please just reach out and we can assist. 

Merryn Sadler   | Wellbeing Coordinator

Class in Focus- 5A

Curiosity and Commitment to Learn! 

5A have engaged in self-directed learning by collecting data about the Early Catholic Church in Australia and creating a timeline to key events. Similarly, they researched the Black Cockatoo and explored the significance of totems in Aboriginal culture. They have independently explored diverse cultures and histories!

 Mathematical games and problem-solving tasks have challenged and developed their knowledge about decimal fractions as they worked cooperatively in pairs and groups to solve problems and provide reasoning for solutions. 

 5A particularly enjoy participating in Gymnastics where they have shown skill and talent.  Their enthusiasm for gymnastics highlights their physical skills and teamwork. A big thank you to Aspire Gymnastics for supporting their development in this area!

Mrs Antoinette Angelucci   | Year 5 Teacher

Sports

Under 12’s Girls League Tag Gala Day (Year 6)

Congratulations to the following students, Pipa, Charlotte, Emmerie, Ruby M, Peppa, Georgie, Caitlyn, Lily, Willow,  Minh Minh and Poppie who have nominated to represent Cathedral School at the 2024 Roads to Regions Jillaroos Under 12’s Girls League Tag Gala Day in  Bathurst 2024 on Monday 4th November 2024.

Consent will be required at a school level through the Compass Event Notification.

Community Sport Site
Our Diocesan sports coordinator Mr Steve Maguire has created a Community Sport Site (has reports from events) for parents, families & teachers which can be accessed to assist with Diocesan Sports pathways. You may like to bookmark this site for reference: https://sites.google.com/bth.catholic.edu.au/cedbsportcommunity/home

Louise Condon   | Sports Coordinator

School Student Travel

School student travel information for parents and students

School Travel Passes

Applications are now open for 2025 School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS) travel. 

Students in the Opal network applying for an Opal card (including a Term Bus Pass) for the first time will receive their School Opal card at their nominated postal address from mid-January 2025.

Students who require a School Opal card or travel pass but have not yet applied need to apply or update their details as soon as possible.

In the Opal network, students should travel with a Child/Youth Opal card until they receive their valid School Opal card. If outside Greater Sydney, parents should contact their local bus operator to discuss their travel needs.

Students living in rural and regional areas will receive their travel pass from their nominated transport operator. It may be issued via their school or be sent directly to them at home. Note: some rural and regional operators do not issue travel passes. Students/parents should confirm with their nominated operator if they do not receive a pass.

Terms of Use

Students using School Opal cards must tap on and tap off in line with the Opal terms of use.

This includes travel within the approved times between 6.30am and 7.00pm from Monday to Friday on school days only. Students must use their Child/Youth Opal card for any travel outside these times.

All students are required to comply with the Student code of conduct. The code of conduct aims to ensure the safety and well-being of school children and other passengers. It is important that parents ensure their child is aware of this, as failure to comply with the code of conduct can result in a suspension from travel.

Further information can be found at transportnsw.info/school-travel
Enquiries can be submitted at transportnsw.info/passes-concessions-feedback

Cathedral School Fleecy Sports Tops

Marietta’s now stock the new Cathedral School fleecy sports top. 
Price is $40.

Parents and Friends

 Cathedral School Parents & Friends 

Next P&F Meeting: Wednesday 6th November 5:30pm - School Library
Everyone is invited to attend our monthly P&F meetings, which are held on the first Wednesday of each school month at 5:30pm in the Library.

There is NO PRESSURE to attend every meeting or volunteer bucketloads of time - the P&F is a great resource to keep track of what’s happening at school and connect with other parents, caregivers and school staff.   

For those who cannot attend in person, we have a zoom link, if you would like to join from home!

 https://bthcatholic.zoom.us/j62675200979?pwd=duYyV3M2MvdoTVVjclRKZE5jdnlMdzo9

ID:62675200979@zmau.us 

Password: 106688

School Fete 8th November 5pm- 8pm

If you would like to be part of the Fete Committee please reach out to 

Courtney- 0404 378 971 or Jodie 0417 656 452 

Keep an eye out for the Fete newsletter on a Thursday via compass to see how you can help

OPTIONAL SCHOOL JACKETS

 The Cathedral School logo is embroidered on the chest, the jackets are lightweight, windproof and water-resistant perfect for the cold weather. These optional school jackets are available to try on at the school office and ready to order via Flexischools under shop.

Please note: The optional jacket is NOT compulsory - All maroon/navy/black school jackets are also acceptable.

If you have any enquiries about our projects or would like to get involved, please email us at cathedralpandf@gmail.com

Melissa Bray   | P & F Publicity

Music

Instrument Try Out Day 

Year 2 will get the great opportunity to try out the band and guitar group instruments on Thursday this week.

We want to thank the Mit Con, BAM & CDM for giving up their time and music tutors to make the instrument try out day a success.

If your child is in year 1 and really wants to try out for the band or guitar group please contact myself, Mr Dove. 

Bands & Ensembles School Fete

Our Annual Cathedral Fete will be held on Friday 8th of November. Fete rides and activities begin at 5pm. 

We invite you to join our school bands and ensembles for the opening ceremony at 4:45pm in the Mother Ignatius Croke Hall. 

The following students will be required to arrive at the school hall at 4.15pm with their instruments for a rehearsal before the performance. 

-Students in the Didgeridoo group

-Students in the Guitar group

-Students in the Junior Band

-Students in the Concert Band

As students will want to participate in the fete after the performance, we ask that they wear appropriate casual clothes for the performance. Students may leave their instruments in the hall at the conclusion of the opening ceremony. 

All students in our musical enrichment program are invited to perform either individually or as a duo throughout the Fete. We ask that students please give their name to Mrs Baird if they would like to be included in the ‘busking’ roster for the evening.

If your child is interested in participating in any of these groups please feel free to contact me chris_dove_trumpet@hotmail.com

Chris Dove   | Band Director

Absences

Full Day Absence
Full Day absences (the Compass default time is 8:00am-5:00pm, please do not change this) are entered via the Compass App and Compass allows 7 days to add this.

Part Day Absences - Arriving Late or Early Departures
Complete this absence via the Compass Portal located in the School Office, when you bring your child to school late or collect your child early.
This information is recorded against your child’s attendance records and sent to your child’s teacher.

So that we can have your child ready for an early departure from school, please email your child’s teacher
(via Compass) the departure details.

School Calendar Handy Hints

For those who are not familiar with Google Calendar an easy way to keep up to date with the school calendar is to check the school website. Here is the link that will take you straight to the Calendar section of the site where the calendar can be displayed by month. If you click on the event more details (if confirmed) will be available for the event. 

Most end of year events and special celebrations have already been added to the calendar and all other events appear as soon as we can confirm the details.  Website Calendar Link

For those with a Google Account the calendar can be added to your Google calendars for easy access
on your phone or device. Google School Calendar Link

Update your Details

Update your email, phone number, address, your child’s medical details or emergency contacts by emailing the information to cathedral@bth.catholic.edu.au

Canteen

The Canteen is open on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

We are in need of helpers in the Canteen on Wednesday, Thursday & Friday. 
For the canteen to run smoothly 3 volunteers are essential.

Please contact Alana Watson on 0417 044 116 if you would like to be included in the canteen roster,
any time offered is welcomed.

Thank you to all our friends and family for all your ongoing support of the Cathedral Canteen.

Volunteer for the Fete

As you know, fundraisers are not a success without volunteers. And here is where you come into help us on the night !!! We have several stalls that require volunteers from our community to help. It’s not all night (unless you want to) but we do have time slots to suit everyone.Grab your friends, Click on this link or use this QR code and volunteer for a time slot that suits you. All stalls are easy to run and come with everything you need.https://signup.com/client/invitation2/secure/5610932860105/false#/invitation

Cathedral School Fete 2024SignUp.com makes it easy to coordinate school events & classroom activities, fundraisers, snack schedules, potlucks & more!signup.com

Council of Catholic School Parents NSW/ACT

Council of Catholic School Parents NSW/ACT

What works for your child and your family around wellbeing and learning?

Do you have a few minutes to share what works for your child around wellbeing and learning? A positive school experience shared is something we would like to hear. CSPA is listening so go ahead and tell us.

Scan the QR code or click on the survey link: https://bit.ly/3MQTXM4

Thank you from CSPA!

Community Notices

Bathurst Bus Lines - School Bus Tracking App
The school bus tracking app is available for parents to download on their phone and track their child's bus in real time.  This might alleviate some of the anxiety related to putting students on the bus. Please see instructions below.

Parents requiring any bus pass or general bus travel information are welcome to contact our office and we will be able to discuss their needs accordingly.

If you have any queries please contact us on 6331 2744

Kind regards,

Carolyn
Bathurst Bus Lines