In this issue
• From the Chaplain
• Welcome to Term 4
• ‘The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940’ Production
• East Timor Fundraiser
Traralgon Junior School
From the Head of Traralgon Junior School, Ms Tracey King. Welcome back to Term 4 everyone! It has been lovely to hear about holiday adventures and to see so many smiling faces back at school. We have welcomed Ms Lara Gibbons, who is replacing Ms Cotterrell while she is on …
Traralgon Junior School
From the Head of Traralgon Junior School,
Ms Tracey King.
Welcome back to Term 4 everyone! It has been lovely to hear about holiday adventures and to see so many smiling faces back at school. We have welcomed Ms Lara Gibbons, who is replacing Ms Cotterrell while she is on leave, to our teaching team and she has enjoyed her first week teaching the delightful Year 4 class. We have started our first week with swimming for Years 1 to 6 which has been busy and exciting. Well done to our students for being organised and for managing themselves and their belongings well in the change rooms each day. With our swimming program happening there have been a few minor changes to our specialist timetable and the addition of a two-hour art workshop for each class.
We also acknowledged Dyslexia awareness month on Friday with our Code Read paper plane challenge and splashes of red across the Junior School. There was much competition in all classes about designing the best paper plane for distance and quite a lot of learning about flight, thrust, lift, drag and gravity.
Code Read is a national not-for-profit organisation that has been created to raise awareness, support and empower Australians affected by Dyslexia. The work of this volunteer group is focused on the vision for all people with dyslexia to be understood, acknowledged, empowered and to have equal access to opportunity. Code Read Dyslexia Network provides dyslexia support and evidence-based information for those living in Australia who are affected by Dyslexia including families, individuals, educators and other allied professionals. The group members have all been impacted by dyslexia in some way and are Australian parents, carers, educators, health professionals and people with dyslexia.
To access Code Read go to https://codereadnetwork.org. Other support groups for families and teachers include: Learning Difficulties Australia, Five from Five, RANZCO, Auspeld (SPELD associations), Australian Dyslexia Association and the International Dyslexia Association.
The Australian Dyslexia Association (ADA) conservatively estimates that dyslexia affects 10 to 20 per cent of our population. Jamie Oliver, Richard Branson, Whoopi Goldberg and Steven Spielberg are some of the many famous people diagnosed with dyslexia. Dyslexia is described as a persistent challenge with acquiring and using written language and is often found to be hereditary.
The dyslexic brain is actually hardwired differently. Because the dyslexic brain is structurally different, the areas of the brain that activate during reading are different from those areas in a neurotypical reader’s brain! The structural differences in a dyslexic’s brain are neurobiological in nature and affect the organisation in the brain that controls the ability to process the way language is heard, spoken, read or spelled. In the dyslexic brain, the areas of the brain that activate when reading fire differently from a neurotypical reader’s brain. If we think of this process like a map, it is like the dyslexic brain has lost the map and is taking the scenic route. While children with dyslexia can still learn to read, the process in which the task is carried out is less efficient. Although children with dyslexia may struggle to acquire skills with the written language they often have been shown to have talented and productive minds and are capable of great learning and achievement.
Dyslexia is most commonly diagnosed in school-age children and early childhood educators and primary school teachers are vital in providing early learning pathways for children.
Our Term 4 calendar is jam-packed full of learning and special events. Please make sure you are aware of the upcoming events and lock the important dates into your diaries. Here is a brief look at the big whole school events which you do not want to miss!
Wednesday 19 October special Parent Information Evening about ‘Play Is The Way’, 7:00 to 8:30 pm
Wilson and Julie McCaskill, founders of Play Is The Way, will be travelling to Gippsland to work with our teaching team and will be providing a very special information session for parents. Although we have provided much information over the past few years about Play Is The Way, Wilson is particularly insightful, inspiring and knowledgeable. The opportunity to hear him speak in person will be worthwhile for all families and I cannot recommend this evening highly enough. All parents are strongly encouraged to attend. In order to assist families with attendance, children are welcome to come along and will be supervised and cared for in the library whilst parents attend the session with Wilson. There will be a movie, popcorn and drinks and a range of activities for students to enjoy.
Play Is The Way assists primary schools to achieve the personal and social capabilities required by the Australian National Curriculum. Those capabilities, as described in the curriculum, are divided into four inter-related elements of:
• Self-awareness
• Self-management
• Social awareness
• Social management
Play Is The Way is a methodology for social and emotional learning (SEL) consisting of:
• Physically interactive games that embed self-awareness, consideration and cooperation.
• A specific language that develops self-reflection and self-management.
• Five principles that guide personal behaviour and nurture social awareness and social management.
The Play Is The Way process of social and emotional learning (SEL) helps children to “develop the fundamental skills for life effectiveness.” It teaches the skills, “we all need to handle ourselves, our relationships and our work effectively and ethically.” CASEL (Collaborative for Social and Emotional Learning)
The parent information session will give participants a hands-on experience of the Play Is The Way methodology. Parents will participate in activities that illustrate the benefit of the guiding concepts and reflective language. Through their own reactions, parents and carers will discover why the games make a powerful tool for social and emotional development. PLEASE NOTE: The session is not a workshop on parenting and does not give advice on parenting within the home and family setting. It does however illustrate how the Play Is The Way methodology works in schools and ways in which parents and carers can support the social and emotional development of their children.
Further details and registration for this important parent session have been emailed to families. Please RSVP for catering and for child care prior to Monday 17 October.
Thursday 27 October is our ARTS Showcase
The evening will begin with a gallery viewing of student visual art at 5:45 pm and will include Poets of Parade and musical items starting at 6:15 pm. The evening will be a celebration of both Visual and Performing Arts at St Paul’s Junior School. All students are involved in performances and expected to attend.
Tuesday 15 November will see our students present Madagascar Junior Musical
Students have been busy preparing and rehearsing and as the date gets closer the excitement is building. All students are involved in performances and expected to attend. There will be matinee and evening performances. Details regarding ticketing will be sent home shortly.
Friday 2 December will be our Christmas Celebration Evening
All families are invited to join us for a picnic and gathering in the gardens of the Junior School. Each class will sing Christmas Carols, there will be some musical performances and we will enjoy an opportunity to finish the year together.
We are looking forward to enjoying these events with you and celebrating your child’s learning and achievements throughout the term and do hope you can clear your calendars to ensure you can attend.
This month on SchoolTV – Online Gaming
Many parents and carers still struggle to come to terms with understanding the amount of time young people spend participating in this pastime and often raise concerns about its addictive nature. But it is not all bad. There are many positive aspects to gaming also. Families need to find the right balance between their young person’s online world and real life.
Games are an integral part of human behaviour. It is normal and healthy for young people to engage in play as a part of their daily lives, including playing games online. And like most activities, online gaming can have both positive and negative outcomes. It can be intimidating and confusing for carers trying to understand a young person’s online experiences with many considering that staring at a screen is an unhealthy habit. However, the World Health Organisation does believe that as well as the risks, there are also many positive benefits associated with online gaming and these could be key in nurturing bonds with others.
During the pandemic, there was an explosive growth of gaming as people sought much-needed connection during isolation. In the media, gaming often gets bad publicity because most coverage tends to concentrate on the minority of gamers who play to such an extent that it compromises all other areas of their life. However, online gaming can teach young people many skills including teamwork, concentration, communication and problem-solving. It requires a level of interaction and skill from the player; unlike watching television, which is more passive.
Online communities provide opportunities for young people to feel socially connected and have a sense of belonging. At healthy levels, gaming can increase their self-esteem and social acceptance. However, any behaviour, when taken to the extreme, can also have a negative impact on a young person’s everyday life. Understanding what your young person experiences online and knowing the warning signs if they are at risk, will help nurture a more positive relationship with online gaming and help your family find the right balance.
If you are concerned about your young person’s online gaming habits, it is important to consider a number of factors. This edition will provide strategies on how to deal with any issues you may be experiencing. We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this month’s edition and we always welcome your feedback.
If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.
Here is the link to this month’s edition https://stpaulsags.vic.schooltv.me/newsletter/online-gaming
A few reminders:
• Students should not be arriving at school prior to 8:30 am. Teachers are on duty from 8:30 am and classrooms are open from 8:45 am. Club House Bootcamp is available for families requiring care for their children prior to 8:30 am in the morning. Register here https://www.clubhousebootcamp.com.au/
• Please take a few minutes each week to access our school’s MyStPauls portal and read the information which is posted on the Traralgon Junior School pages and your child’s classroom parent page. MyStPauls contains important information about special events, classroom programs and learning and assessment.
• Our carpark is very busy and I would like to remind parents to be extra careful when parking and driving through the school grounds. Where possible please back into car parking spaces and follow the reduced speed limit. Please also note that when accessing the school and Ford Swim Centre, right-hand turns are not permissible to the side road. Please drive carefully through the Junior School carpark and be mindful of our precious children at drop off and pick up times. Your cooperation in keeping our community safe is appreciated.
“Attitude is a choice. Happiness is a choice. Optimism is a choice. Kindness is a choice.
Giving is a choice. Respect is a choice. Whatever choice you make makes you. Choose wisely.” Roy T Bennett
Tracey King
Head of Traralgon Junior School
WHAT’S ON
OCTOBER
3 October Swimming Years 1 to 6 begins (Mon to Thurs)
7 October Dyslexia Awareness Day
10 October Swimming Years 1 to 6 (Mon to Thurs)
11 October Regional Athletics
12 October Flying Bookworm ELC and Prep
14 October Cricket Blast
Hot Shot Tennis
Year 10 Market Day
Academy of Music Kapelle Konzert Traralgon Little Theatre, 7:00 pm
17 October Swimming Prep begins (Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri)
19 October Prep 2023 Parent Information Evening
‘Play Is The Way’ Parent Evening, 7:00 pm
20 October Regional Hot Shot Tennis
21 October Year 6 Relay for Life
24 October Swimming Prep (Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri)
27 October Arts Showcase
28 October Day for Daniel
31 October Mid-term break
NOVEMBER
1 November Melbourne Cup Day
4 November Purple Day
Year 2 Sleepover
7 November Book Fair week begins
11 November Remembrance Day Service
15 November Madagascar Junior Musical
16 November Regional Cricket Blast
18 November Student Free Day
21 November State Hot Shot Tennis
23 November Division Bowls
24 November Years 5 and 6 Endeavour Program EXPO
25 November Market Day
Friends of St Paul’s (FOSP) Shopping Night
DECEMBER
1 December Whole School Swimming Carnival
2 December Christmas Celebration Evening
5 December Year 6 Excursion
6 December Year 6 Graduation
P-5 Activity Day
7 December Presentation Assembly
Dismissal 3:20 pm
* Please note that all events/excursions are dependent on COVID-19 restrictions.
* TBC – to be confirmed.
DOBSONS TRADING HOURS
Please note that some COVIDSafe procedures may still apply. We thank you for your cooperation.
Order online or click and collect: Please ensure that you only attend the store to collect your items once you have received notification that your order is ready, order here.
Class Updates
Prep
The Prep students have returned to school with enthusiasm, a bit more height and fewer teeth! This week students have learnt the new sound ‘ar’ as in car and have enjoyed constructing their own sentences using known words from our Let’s Decode sessions. They are learning the new concept of sharing things evenly into groups during our maths sessions and rehearsing different ways to count by using a pattern. In our Humanities learning students have been classifying different objects by using criteria to decide if it is a living or non-living thing.
Year 1
It has been a busy start to the term in Year 1 with students very excited to get involved in our swimming program. We have also begun our Waste Warriors unit where students will be learning about how to reduce, reuse and recycle their waste, both at home and at school. This week students have learnt what waste is, discussed the waste they have at home and drawn examples, which we will refer to throughout the term.
Year 2
We have had a fabulous start to the term here in Year 2! Swimming has begun as well as our new integrated unit, ‘Water, water everywhere!’ The Year 2 students have started to explore fractions, synonyms and antonyms and have compared and contrasted narratives and their plots. We have so many great things to look forward to in Term 4 such as the water incursion, Year 2 sleepover, as well as our whole school events.
Year 4
It has been a great start to the term for all Year 4 students. We welcome Mrs Gibbons to the classroom while Ms Cotterrell is on leave. So far, students have enjoyed swimming lessons and getting back into the routines of the classroom. We have been busily preparing for our poetry piece for the Arts Showcase and we are hopeful all students will be in attendance. Our Humanities unit of work is ‘War on Waste’ where students will be investigating ways in which we can manage rubbish and the impact this will have on our future. We look forward to sharing our learning with you throughout the term.
Year 5
What an amazing start to Term 4! We have an action-packed term ahead of us and all students have come back to school ready and eager to learn. We have been revising factors and multiples of whole numbers while using this knowledge to solve problems. We explored different factors and multiples using number sequences and simple divisibility tests. Many students took on the challenge to extend their learning by identifying and describing the properties of prime, composite and triangular numbers. During writing lessons, we have been learning about parts of sentences and different types of sentences. This new learning will help us when we write paragraphs and it will also help our punctuation, spelling and vocabulary.
Year 6
Students in Year 6 have returned for their final term of primary school! Students began the term bubbling with excitement to share their holiday adventures, big and small with their peers and teachers. Students have commenced their Swimming Program; each impressing their teachers and themselves with their willingness to try new things and participate to progress … all with a smile on their faces! Year 6 students have also begun excitedly preparing for our upcoming Purple Day activities to raise money and awareness for Cancer and Cancer research. Students are developing their consumer and financial literacy knowledge in Maths. In Literacy, all Writing Challenge stories have now been proudly submitted to a publisher, with students eagerly awaiting to see their hard work in book form!
FRIENDS OF ST PAUL’S (FOSP)
Supporting Traralgon Secondary School’s ‘The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940’
FOSP will be selling tea, coffee, cold drinks and some sweet treats in the foyer on Friday and Saturday evenings before the show and during the interval.
Come by before the show and purchase some snacks. Enjoy the show!
2022 St Paul’s Walking Shopping Tour – SAVE THE DATE
Friday 25 November, Traralgon CBD, 5:00 to 9:00 pm
Ticket sales and more info coming soon.
Be sure to save the date for this fun night. Support our school and the local businesses that will be offering discounts, specials and prizes.
Next FOSP Meeting
Tuesday 11 October, 7:00 pm, Traralgon Campus Library
ALL WELCOME
For info and queries, call or message Myra on 0413 933 902.
Become involved
FOSP is always seeking support from friends and parents in our school community. Small tasks, ideas, resources and fun!
We would love you to join us. If you would like to be part of this dedicated and passionate group please reach out to see how you can become involved. We are currently seeking interest from people who would like to help with the walking shopping tour. Call or message Myra on 0413 955 902.
MARKET WEEK
As part of their studies, Year 10 Commerce students are setting up small businesses for Market Week on Friday 14 October. All profits will go to charities chosen by the students. This is a valuable hands-on learning opportunity for planning and operating a small business. Junior school students are welcome to attend. Pre-order forms will be handed to students who show interest from their teachers or available from the Junior School office and online in the MyStPauls Portal Newsfeed. The school canteen will still be operating as normal.
Ash and Paige running a Market Week stall in 2019.
The businesses available will be:
Picture Palace and Popcorn – Photo booth and popcorn stall. Profits are going to The Orangutan Project. Pre-order forms are available, or students can attend on the day.
Waffle World – A waffle stall with various toppings, with profits going to the Royal Children’s Hospital. Pre-orders needed. Products will contain dairy and gluten. Traces of nuts may be present in some toppings.
Bucket Pong – A game with prizes, with profits going to the Smith Family. Pre-order forms are available, or students can attend on the day. Some food prizes may contain gluten or traces of nuts. Other prizes will be available.
Ice-cream Fairies – Ice creams and fairy bread with profits going to Men’s Line. Pre-orders needed. Products contain dairy and gluten.
Shake Shack – Milkshakes and spiders with profits going to the Cancer Council. Pre-orders needed. Pre-orders needed. Products contain dairy.
Banger Bros. Sausages – Burgers, and veggie burgers with profits going to the Australian and New Zealand Sarcoma Association. Pre-orders needed. Products contain gluten.
Allergy warnings and ingredient lists will be displayed and food-handling considerations have been discussed in depth with students. Pre-orders need to be completed and paid to the Senior School office by recess on Tuesday 10 October for Wednesday and by recess on Thursday 13 October for Friday.
Kirsten Enders
Humanities and Commerce Teacher, Traralgon Campus
LIBRARY NEWS
This term will be a busy one at the Traralgon Campus library. Students in Prep will be comparing a text to their own lives, while Year 1 students will be identifying similarities between different cultural texts. In Year 2, students are focusing on identifying different aspects of a text, while Year 3 students are developing the criteria to assess their reading preferences across different genres. Years 4 to 6 will consolidate their knowledge of school databases before researching text features of various novel formats.
The library itself will be busy also, celebrating International School Library Month in October before we celebrate Children’s week later in the term. Very exciting is the Lamont Book Fair that will take place in early November, just in time for some early Christmas shopping. Who doesn’t love new books? I know I do, and I already have a wish list ready.
Jannet Taylor
Head of Libraries
HIGH TEA FOR TIMOR
Team Timor is planning an exciting new fundraiser, High Tea for Timor, to help fund the new English Language Centre being built in Malimea Village.
Students at Malimea Village on the site where the future Early Learning Centre will be built.
Guests will be able to enjoy a gourmet afternoon tea with unlimited tea and coffee, some light entertainment and good company, all for a wonderful cause.
The event will take place from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Traralgon Tennis Club on Sunday 6 November, with tickets being $25 a head for adults and $15 for students. Bookings can be made at https://www.trybooking.com/CDIAZ.
If you are interested in donating to our raffle or silent auction to be held on the day, please contact Kirsten Enders at kenders@stpaulsags.vic.edu.au or ring 5175 9222.
Thanks for supporting Timor.
Kirsten Enders and Sophia Hastie
Traralgon Team Timor Leader and Team Timor Captain
ALUMNI REUNIONS
Spread the word! Register here to join in what is sure to be a fabulous afternoon of reminiscing and celebrating!
Traralgon Secondary School
From the Head of Traralgon Secondary School, Mrs Leonie Clark A historic immersion in Melbourne Prior to the holidays, I was able to join our …
Traralgon Secondary School
From the Head of Traralgon Secondary School,
Mrs Leonie Clark
A historic immersion in Melbourne
Prior to the holidays, I was able to join our Year 9 students and staff on their City Experience camp and was able to enjoy not only their excellent company for a day, but I was also able to partake in some of the fabulous learning activities on offer. I met the Year 9 team at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) where we could not help but find ourselves suddenly immersed in footy finals fever. We were treated to a tour of the entire venue, including the very depths of the building and team preparation rooms.
On the day we visited, we were able to see the players’ rooms ‘dressed’ in red and blue as preparations were underway for their big game. Our students loved the opportunity to soak in the atmosphere, where gladiators of many sports and events have and continue to exceed both personal and combined team challenges.
A quiet and reflective moment of respect.
Whenever I visit the MCG I am reminded of the below image from the State Library of Victoria in which the local Melbourne community of 1862 gathers around the edges of what we now know as the Melbourne Cricket Ground, for the very first international cricket match. It is a scene dominated and generously framed by towering gum trees, elongated and ever so slightly distorted in their depiction. In some small way, through this and other artworks from this event, we are able to travel back to a different time, to a place with which we are all familiar and enjoyed collective significant community events. I wonder what the folk in their formal attire and carriages would have thought of the current MCG facilities or Robbie Williams in his spectacular performance at the Grand Final, for that matter!
Our students were in awe of their surroundings at the MCG and embraced the opportunity to offer some coaching advice to the players.
Shared wisdom in a post-match debrief.
Post our tour of the MCG the day continued as students made their way in small groups from the MCG to the Old Melbourne Watchhouse and Courtroom experience. Students participated in a mock trial and some of us found ourselves arrested in the watchhouse for being somewhat ‘disorderly’. A number of students found themselves with key roles and I am very pleased to report that our students were most compliant with authorities.
Many new friendships were sparked at the camp as students mixed for longer periods and learnt more about each other. There is no doubt that the Year 9 students have become a closer cohort as a result of spending extended time and shared experiences together for a week.
I cannot thank the staff enough for their generous care of our students during the five days and four nights, as well as the many, many kilometres they covered on foot throughout the week away from their families. I additionally wish to thank our students for the outstanding way in which they conducted themselves in the city and on public transport throughout the week. How exciting it is to have camps as well as grateful students and families, as we are once again able to offer these lifelong memories and real-world learning experiences to our students again.
Prime position – Year 9 students enjoying the ‘very best’ seats in the house.
Student Supervision Before/After School
This is a reminder to families that supervision of students commences at 8:30 am each day at our Traralgon Secondary School. Staff may be present and preparing for the day ahead, but there is no ‘formal supervision’ of students who may have been dropped at school prior to 8:30 am or after 4:35 pm each day. Pre-arranged and supervised co-curricular activities are an exception to the above. We thank our families for their kind understanding and support.
The Parents Website – An Independent Schools Victoria (ISV) Initiative
Watch Dr Jared Cooney Horvath’s webinar: A tour through the teenage brain.
I recently watched the below webinar presented by ISV over the holidays and thought it was well worth sharing with our community. Our Year 7 students are very quickly becoming Year 8 students and the pushback may be a little less of a shock to parents and guardians if you are prepared for the possible responses and behaviours that could be on the horizon in your house.
Dr Jared Cooney Horvath presents ‘What’s going on with your teenager?’ A tour through the teenage brain.
Sometimes they’re bored, disengaged, and unmotivated. Other times they’re risky, unpredictable, and emotionally volatile.
During this webinar, Dr Jared Cooney Horvath will explore the brain, how it develops, and how things change during adolescence and early adulthood. Through fun, interactive activities, parents, carers (and even their young people!) can learn how (and why) teenagers think differently from adults and consider ways we can support them academically, emotionally, and cognitively. (ISV Parents Website)
School TV Understanding Adolescence
School TV has a section dedicated to understanding adolescence with 23 short interviews with leading experts on the topic of adolescence.
‘Adolescence is a significant developmental stage marking the transition from childhood to adulthood. It is characterised by an emerging sense of self-identity, exploration of personal interests, beliefs, values and goals, increased independence and autonomy beyond the family, growing responsibility, increased engagement in risk behaviours, emerging sexuality, amplified significance of peers, intensification of gender stereotypes, and shifting relationships with parents and caregivers. Adolescents seek increased independence and autonomy, which requires ongoing negotiation and compromise within the parent-child relationship.’ (School TV)
https://stpaulsags.vic.schooltv.me/newsletter/understanding-adolescence
Leonie Clark
Head of Traralgon Secondary School
WHAT’S ON
OCTOBER
7 October Edutest Catch Up
Production: ‘The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940’ (Performance 1), Traralgon Secondary School Gymnasium, 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm
8 October Production: ‘The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940’ (Performance 2), Traralgon Secondary School Gymnasium, 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm
10 to 14 October Health and PE Week
12 October Commerce Market Week, 12:45 pm to 1:30 pm
13 October SEISA Summer Junior Round 1 – BYE
Academy of Music Rehearsal (Kapelle Konzert), 12:45 pm to 4:30 pm
14 October St Paul’s Academy of Music – Kapelle Konzert Rehearsal, Little Theatre Traralgon, 12:00 noon to 4:30 pm
St Paul’s Academy of Music – Kapelle Konzert, Gipplsand Performing Arts Centre Traralgon, 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm
17 October DAV Debating Playoff Final, C-Grade Only, 3:15 pm to 7:00 pm
20 October SEISA Summer Junior Round 2
Year 9 Exhibition Night, 7:00 pm
* Please note that all events/excursions are dependent on COVID-19 restrictions.
* TBC – to be confirmed.
DOBSONS TRADING HOURS
Please note that some COVIDSafe procedures may still apply. We thank you for your cooperation.
Order online or click and collect: Please ensure that you only attend the store to collect your items once you have received notification that your order is ready, order here.
FRIENDS OF ST PAUL’S (FOSP)
Supporting Traralgon Secondary School’s ‘The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940’
FOSP will be selling tea, coffee, cold drinks and some sweet treats in the foyer on Friday and Saturday evenings before the show and during the interval.
Come by before the show and purchase some snacks. Enjoy the show!
2022 St Paul’s Walking Shopping Tour – SAVE THE DATE
Friday 25 November, Traralgon CBD, 5:00 to 9:00 pm
Ticket sales and more info coming soon.
Be sure to save the date for this fun night. Support our school and the local businesses that will be offering discounts, specials and prizes.
Next FOSP Meeting
Tuesday 11 October, 7:00 pm, Traralgon Campus Library
ALL WELCOME
For info and queries, call or message Myra on 0413 933 902.
Become involved
FOSP is always seeking support from friends and parents in our school community. Small tasks, ideas, resources and fun!
We would love you to join us. If you would like to be part of this dedicated and passionate group please reach out to see how you can become involved. We are currently seeking interest from people who would like to help with the walking shopping tour. Call or message Myra on 0413 955 902.
WHAT’S ON SPORT
| Event | Logistics | Key Information |
| SEISA Junior Competition | Round 1: Thursday 13 October (BYE)
Round 2: Thursday 20 October Round 3: Thursday 27 October Round 4: Thursday 3 November Round 5: Thursday 10 November Finals: Thursday 17 November |
Selection process: Trials completed on Thursday 6 October.
Weekly logistics (travel arrangements) will be published on the MyStPauls Sport page each Friday. Training information, fixtures and results will also be published regularly on the MyStPauls sport page. Event and consent information will be distributed to families via Consent2Go after trials. This will need to be approved by Tuesday 11 October.
|
| 2022 Alpine Stars Schools Mountain Bike Series – Victoria | Saturday 29 October
Spring Gully, Bendigo Round 5 Final |
Selection process: Students expressed interest in joining the mountain bike team in Term 2. Student’s have competed in events already at Lysterfield, Haunted Hills and the Yoy Yangs.
The Alpinestars Schools Mountain Bike Series – Victoria is a great way for kids to get involved in racing their mountain bikes for their school in a fun and supportive environment. New and experienced riders are encouraged to participate. Team information: Consent2Go information has already been approved by families in Term 2. Please check emails for regular communication. |
| Victorian All School Track and Field Championships | Weekend 1: Saturday 29 – Sunday 30 October
Weekend 2: Saturday 5 – Sunday 6 November |
Selection process: All students who were members of the SEISA Athletics team have received an email outlining the nomination process. Emails were sent to students and parents/guardians. An announcement has also been placed on the MyStPauls Sport Page
Team information: Consent2Go information will be sent to families in Term 4. Please check emails for regular communication. This event will require parents to provide transport and supervision at the competition. |
| Other Term 4 Sport Information
All key sporting event information is published regularly on the MyStPauls Sport page. Students and families must be checking this page to keep informed. Further information on the St Paul’s Equestrian teams will be published on the MyStPauls page throughout the term. Term 1 SEISA signs ups for 2023 will occur in Early Commencement. |
||
Sandra Timmer-Arends
Head of Sport, Traralgon
‘THE MUSICAL COMEDY MURDERS OF 1940’
This is your final reminder to get your tickets to see our students performing in this hilarious production. We have two performances: Friday 7 October at 7:00 pm and Saturday 8 October at 7:00 pm. Both performances are held in our Traralgon Campus Gymnasium.
Tickets can be found at the following link: The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 – St Paul’s Anglican GS Tickets, St Paul’s AGS Traralgon Campus GYMNASIUM, Traralgon | TryBooking Australia
It is so incredibly exciting to be back on stage performing once again after our two-year hiatus which, for many, has felt like much longer! For many of our students at St Paul’s Traralgon, their last production to be involved in was our 2019 Musical Production ‘The Addams Family’. For others, their introduction to performing on stage was through preparing for ‘Mary Poppins JR’ in 2021 (despite this not going ahead in the final weeks). In a way, it has been the collective spirit of the entire performing arts community around the world pushing many of us to get ‘back on stage’ after the events of the last few years. This collective spirit and preparedness to ‘try new things’ have allowed our campus to embark on our newest project – our very first dramatic production: ‘The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940’.
It has been such an enjoyable experience this year seeing this play come to life – especially as, for some students, this is the first time they have performed in a play. For others, it is the excitement of the return to the stage. For many of our students, theatre is an escape from the daily grind. It is an important outlet, be it creative or personal. For some, it is much more than a past-time or hobby – it is what fills their soul and recharges their batteries.
The maid.
A ‘backer’s audition’.
…But who is the killer?
The cast of ‘The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940’.
Synopsis
The creative team responsible for a recent Broadway flop (in which three chorus girls were murdered by the mysterious “Stage Door Slasher”) assemble for a backer’s audition of their new show at the Westchester estate of a wealthy “angel.” The house is replete with sliding panels, secret passageways, and a German maid who is apparently four different people—all of which figure diabolically in the comic mayhem which follows when the infamous “Slasher” makes his reappearance and strikes again—and again. As they prepare their performance, a blizzard cuts off any possible retreat, bodies start to drop in plain sight, knives spring out of nowhere, masked figures drag their victims behind swivelling bookcases, and accusing fingers point in all directions. However…the mystery is solved in the nick of time and the “Slasher” unmasked—but not before the audience has been treated to a sidesplitting good time and a generous serving of the author’s biting, satiric, and refreshingly irreverent wit.
Nathan Byrne
Head of Performing Arts – Events
Production Coordinator (Traralgon)
MARKET WEEK
As part of their studies, Year 10 Commerce students are setting up small businesses for Market Week on Wednesday 12 October and Friday 14 October. All profits will go to charities chosen by the students. This is a valuable hands-on learning opportunity for planning and operating a small business. Junior school students can also attend on Friday. Pre-order forms will be handed to students who show interest from their teachers or are available from the Secondary School office and online in the MyStPauls Portal Newsfeed. The school canteen will still be operating as normal.
Ash and Paige running a Market Week stall in 2019.
The businesses available will be:
Picture Palace and Popcorn – Photo booth and popcorn stall. Profits are going to The Orangutan Project. Pre-order forms are available, or students can attend on the day.
Waffle World – A waffle stall with various toppings, with profits going to the Royal Children’s Hospital. Pre-orders needed. Products will contain dairy and gluten. Traces of nuts may be present in some toppings.
Bucket Pong – A game with prizes, with profits going to the Smith Family. Pre-order forms are available, or students can attend on the day. Some food prizes may contain gluten or traces of nuts. Other prizes will be available.
Ice-cream Fairies – Ice creams and fairy bread with profits going to Men’s Line. Pre-orders needed. Products contain dairy and gluten.
Shake Shack – Milkshakes and spiders with profits going to the Cancer Council. Pre-orders needed. Products contain dairy.
Banger Bros. Sausages – Burgers, and veggie burgers with profits going to the Australian and New Zealand Sarcoma Association. Pre-orders needed. Products contain gluten.
Allergy warnings and ingredient lists will be displayed and food-handling considerations have been discussed in depth with students. Pre-orders need to be completed and paid to the Senior School office by recess on Tuesday 10 October for Wednesday and by recess on Thursday 13 October for Friday.
Kirsten Enders
Humanities and Commerce Teacher, Traralgon Campus
EXHIBITION NIGHT THURSDAY 20 OCTOBER
To celebrate our students’ learning throughout the year, we are showcasing some of their many achievements in an Exhibition Night on Thursday 20 October from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm. We would like to invite all students and families to attend.
Alex Beaton with a past Personal Project, a custom-made surfboard.
There will be displays of Year 9 Personal Projects, Visual Arts, and other core subject work. We will also have live music, supper, and an East Timor Fair Trade Stall.
We look forward to seeing you all there to celebrate our students’ achievements.
Kirsten Enders and Sandra Timmer-Arends
Thinking and Learning Teachers
SHADOW JUDGES CELEBRATE
During Term 3 a small number of secondary students at both Warragul and Traralgon Campuses participated in the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s (CBCA) Shadow Judging. These seven students read through all six books in the younger years category before judging the books according to set credentials. The voting process took place online via Zoom and produced a heated debate.
Hayley Collins, Elizabeth Schembri and Layla Graham with their Shadow Judging prizes.
Finally, a winner was chosen from the six … Rabbit, Soldier, Angel, Thief by Katrina Nannestad. The book went on to win the overall Shadow Judges award and was given an honouree win for Book of the Year. As a small gift of appreciation, the seven judges were presented with a limited-edition CBCA pen and a block of chocolate.
Jannet Taylor
Head of Libraries
HIGH TEA FOR TIMOR
Team Timor is planning an exciting new fundraiser, High Tea for Timor, to help fund the new English Language Centre being built in Malimea Village.
Students at Malimea Village on the site where the future Early Learning Centre will be built.
Guests will be able to enjoy a gourmet afternoon tea with unlimited tea and coffee, some light entertainment and good company, all for a wonderful cause.
The event will take place from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Traralgon Tennis Club on Sunday 6 November, with tickets being $25 a head for adults and $15 for students. Bookings can be made at https://www.trybooking.com/CDIAZ.
If you are interested in donating to our raffle or silent auction to be held on the day, please contact Kirsten Enders at kenders@stpaulsags.vic.edu.au or ring 5175 9222.
Thanks for supporting Timor.
Kirsten Enders and Sophia Hastie
Traralgon Team Timor Leader and Team Timor Captain
ALUMNI REUNIONS
Spread the word! Register here to join in what is sure to be a fabulous afternoon of reminiscing and celebrating!
Click the poster for ticket sales.
Warragul Junior School
From the Head of Warragul Junior School, Mr Rowan van Raay. Welcome to Term 4. I hope families were able to enjoy a break over …
Warragul Junior School
From the Head of Warragul Junior School,
Mr Rowan van Raay.
Welcome to Term 4. I hope families were able to enjoy a break over the recent school holidays. It is always nice to have a change of pace, that is for sure.
We welcome new students, Indiana Bersey (1W1), Miles Benac (3W1), Isabelle Scott (5W1) and Jack Stoll (5W3), and their families to our Junior School. We also welcome Richelle Harris who joins our Early Learning Centre as our new Director.
Tournament of Minds
We congratulate our Tournament of Minds STEM team (from Year 6: Emily P-T, Eve S, Annabella D, Edi C, Indi R and Year 4: Jimmy J-B and Luke B) who competed at the Victorian State Final at Latrobe University late last term. The team should feel proud of their efforts and received Honours.
Lions Club Public Speaking Regional Final
Congratulations to Mitch Green (Year 4) and Joe McInerney (Year 5) who competed at the Lions Club Public Speaking Regional Final at the Warragul Country Club recently. Both Mitch and Joe spoke very well, and I thank Mrs Smethurst, Mrs Gorton and Miss Begg for also attending in support. Mitch will now compete in the Zone final this Sunday.
Early Learning Centre – Assessment and Rating
Late last term, The Department of Education and Training – Early Childhood Education conducted an Assessment and Rating of our Service. The purpose of the assessment and rating is to determine the rating level of our service against the National Quality standards, and the National Law and National Regulations. An authorised officer visited our service to conduct a comprehensive desktop review and assessment of all relevant documentation. The visit also focused on:
• observing educator practice and interactions
• assessing compliance with the National Quality Framework
• discussions relating to the program and practice.
I am pleased to report that our Early Learning Centre received an overall rating of EXCEEDING National Quality Standard.
This result is the reward for our hard-working staff who provide the highest level of care and support for our youngest learners and their families. Well done everyone!
Year 12 students come back to Junior School and their Last Day
Next Thursday, we will hold a special morning tea for the students in Year 12 who attended the Junior School. It is a wonderful time for the students to catch up with staff and reminisce about their time in our Junior School. On Wednesday 19 October, our Year 12 students will have their last day of school. Please be aware that there will most likely be some traffic congestion on this day, so please be patient. I take this opportunity to wish all Year 12 students well as they enter their final weeks of school and during their exam period.
Hats
For Term 4, students should have their school hat with them each day to wear during recess, lunchtimes and all other outdoor activities.
Drop-off and Pick-up times
This is a reminder that staff commence yard duty at 8:30 am each morning, so students should not be left unattended on campus prior to this time. Students who are not collected by 3:45 pm will be taken to the office and parents will be called. Students may be sent to After School Care if required. I ask that parents contact the office if they are running late so we can reassure students and keep them updated.
Junior School Musical
Preparations are coming along nicely for our upcoming Junior School Musical, Moana. All families should have received information from our Performing Arts team, and I ask that you direct any questions to them if you need anything clarified. Tickets can be purchased online at www.wgac.com.au Select ‘What’s On’ and choose the St Paul’s – Disney’s Moana Jr. As we are holding the two shows, 5:30 pm and 7:30 pm, please ensure you double check which show/s your child/ren are in. There will be lots of seats available for family and friends to attend.
Grandparents/Special Friends Day – Save the Date
We are delighted to be able to hold our Grandparents/Special Friends Day once again. This year we will be inviting Grandparents/Special Friends to join us on campus to visit the Art Show, classrooms and tour around our school with their host/s any time between 9:00 am to 11:00 am on Thursday 3 November. More details to follow next week.
This month on SchoolTV – Online Gaming
Games are an integral part of human behaviour. It is normal and healthy for young people to engage in play as a part of their daily lives, including playing games online. And like most activities, online gaming can have both positive and negative outcomes. It can be intimidating and confusing for carers trying to understand a young person’s online experiences with many considering that staring at a screen is an unhealthy habit. However, the World Health Organisation does believe that as well as the risks, there are also many positive benefits associated with online gaming and these could be key in nurturing bonds with others.
During the pandemic, there was an explosive growth of gaming as people sought much-needed connection during isolation. In the media, gaming often gets bad publicity because most coverage tends to concentrate on the minority of gamers who play to such an extent that it compromises all other areas of their life. However, online gaming can teach young people many skills including teamwork, concentration, communication and problem-solving. It requires a level of interaction and skill from the player; unlike watching television, which is more passive.
Online communities provide opportunities for young people to feel socially connected and have a sense of belonging. At healthy levels, gaming can increase their self-esteem and social acceptance. However, any behaviour, when taken to the extreme, can also have a negative impact on a young person’s everyday life. Understanding what your young person experiences online and knowing the warning signs if they are at risk, will help nurture a more positive relationship with online gaming and help your family find the right balance.
If you are concerned about your young person’s online gaming habits, it’s important to consider a number of factors. This edition will provide strategies on how to deal with any issues you may be experiencing. We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this month’s edition, and we always welcome your feedback.
If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.
Here is the link to this month’s edition https://stpaulsags.vic.schooltv.me/newsletter/online-gaming
Rowan van Raay
Head of Warragul Junior School
WHAT’S ON
OCTOBER
11 October Regional Athletics
12 October Prep 2023 Information Evening, 7:00 pm
14 October Year 2 Sleepover
17 October Years 5 and 6 Hoop Time
19 October 2023 Prep Play Afternoon
20 October Warragul Junior School Musical, 5:30 pm and 7:30 pm
25 October Art Show Opening, 7:00 pm
26 October Years 3 and 4 Hoop Time
2023 Prep Play Afternoon
28 October Years 2 and 5 Excursions
31 October Mid-term Break
NOVEMBER
1 November Melbourne Cup Day
3 November Grandparents Day, 9:00 am to 11:00 am
* Please note that all events/excursions are dependent on COVID-19 restrictions.
* TBC – to be confirmed.
DOBSONS TRADING HOURS
Please note that some COVIDSafe procedures may still apply. We thank you for your cooperation.
Order online or click and collect: Please ensure that you only attend the store to collect your items once you have received notification that your order is ready, order here.
ST PAUL’S PARENT PRAYER GROUP
“Where two or three people gather in my name, I am there with them.” Matthew 18:20
The St Paul’s parent prayer group meets on the first Monday of each month during school terms. We try to keep the meeting brief (we are usually done by 9:45 am) and casual (younger children are most welcome). The group encompasses people both very comfortable with praying, as well as those newer to praying with others. Feel free to get in touch with any questions beforehand or just attend when you are able during the year.
Our next gathering is Monday 7 November, 9:00 am in the Prideaux Centre, Warragul Junior School
Contact: Sheryn Cutler 0417 158 937 or sheryn.cutler@gmail.com
HIGH TEA FOR TIMOR
Team Timor is planning an exciting new fundraiser, High Tea for Timor, to help fund the new English Language Centre being built in Malimea Village.
Students at Malimea Village on the site where the future Early Learning Centre will be built.
Guests will be able to enjoy a gourmet afternoon tea with unlimited tea and coffee, some light entertainment and good company, all for a wonderful cause.
The event will take place from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Traralgon Tennis Club on Sunday 6 November, with tickets being $25 a head for adults and $15 for students. Bookings can be made at https://www.trybooking.com/CDIAZ.
If you are interested in donating to our raffle or silent auction to be held on the day, please contact Kirsten Enders at kenders@stpaulsags.vic.edu.au or ring 5175 9222.
Thanks for supporting Timor.
Kirsten Enders and Sophia Hastie
Traralgon Team Timor Leader and Team Timor Captain
ALUMNI REUNIONS
Spread the word! Register here to join in what is sure to be a fabulous afternoon of reminiscing and celebrating!
Warragul Secondary School
From the Head of Warragul Secondary School, Mrs Laura Butterworth. Welcome to Term 4 We hope that all of our families enjoyed some rest over …
Warragul Secondary School
From the Head of Warragul Secondary School,
Mrs Laura Butterworth.
Welcome to Term 4
We hope that all of our families enjoyed some rest over the holidays. It was lovely to see our students return on Monday and the sun poked through the clouds for most of the day which was a welcome sight. Term 4 is a very busy one and we encourage families to please check the “What’s On” dates regularly to ensure you are aware of all the key dates and events that will be happening for your child or children. I have included a list of key dates for Years 7 to 11 below for families new to the school and those who need their knowledge refreshed after two interrupted years. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list but does cover key events and dates that parents do need to be mindful of.
Year 7
| Mid-term Break | Monday 31 October |
| Melbourne Cup Day | Tuesday 1 November |
| Curriculum and Assessment Day – Student Free | Friday 18 November |
| Year 8 Early Commencement Our current Year 7 cohort will transition to Year 8 |
Monday 21 November – Wednesday 7 December |
| 2023 Student Leadership Day Only applicable for elected student leaders, all other students attend normal classes |
Monday 5 December |
| Prideaux Gallop Themed fun run in support of a local charity.Presentation Assembly Rehearsal Selected performers, award winners and assisting students |
Tuesday 6 December |
| Presentation Assembly Students are dismissed at 3:30 pm for the summer break |
Wednesday 7 December, 1:30 pm
|
| Attendance is compulsory for all Year 7 students up until Wednesday 7 December |
Year 8
| Mid-term Break | Monday 31 October |
| Melbourne Cup Day | Tuesday 1 November |
| Curriculum and Assessment Day – Student Free | Friday 18 November |
| Year 9 Early Commencement Our current Year 8 cohort will transition to Year 9 |
Monday 21 November – Wednesday 7 December |
| 2023 Student Leadership Day Only applicable for elected student leaders, all other students attend normal classes |
Monday 5 December |
| Prideaux Gallop Themed fun run in support of a local charity.Presentation Assembly Rehearsal Selected performers, award winners and assisting students |
Tuesday 6 December |
| Presentation Assembly Students are dismissed at 3:30 pm for the summer break |
Wednesday 7 December, 1:30 pm |
| Attendance is compulsory for all Year 8 students up until Wednesday 7 December |
Year 9
| Outdoor Education Camp | Monday 24 October – Friday 28 October |
| Mid-term Break | Monday 31 October |
| Melbourne Cup Day | Tuesday 1 November |
| Year 9 Examinations | Wednesday 16 November and Thursday 17 November |
| Curriculum and Assessment Day – Student Free | Friday 18 November |
| Year 10 Early Commencement Our current Year 9 cohort will transition to Year 10 |
Monday 21 November – Wednesday 7 December |
| 2023 Student Leadership Day Only applicable for elected student leaders, all other students attend normal classes |
Monday 5 December |
| Prideaux Gallop Themed fun run in support of a local charity. Presentation Assembly Rehearsal |
Tuesday 6 December |
| Presentation Assembly Students are dismissed at 3:30 pm for the summer break |
Wednesday 7 December, 1:30 pm |
| Attendance is compulsory for all students up until Wednesday 7 December |
Year 10
| Mid-term Break | Monday 31 October |
| Melbourne Cup Day | Tuesday 1 November |
| Year 10 Examinations | Wednesday 16 November and Thursday 17 November |
| Curriculum and Assessment Day – Student Free | Friday 18 November |
| Year 11 Early Commencement Our current Year 10 cohort will transition to Year 11 |
Monday 21 November – Friday 2 December |
| 2023 Student Leadership Day Only applicable for elected student leaders |
Monday 5 December |
| Prideaux Gallop Themed fun run in support of a local charity. All students welcome. Presentation Assembly Rehearsal |
Tuesday 6 December |
| Presentation Assembly Students are dismissed at 3:30 pm for the summer break |
Wednesday 7 December, 1:30 pm
|
| Attendance for our 2023 Year 11 cohort is compulsory until Friday 2 December. They are also required at the Presentation Assembly on Wednesday 7 December in full summer uniform including their blazer.
They are all welcome and encouraged to attend the Prideaux Gallop on Tuesday 6 December. |
|
Year 11
| Mid-term Break | Monday 31 October |
| Melbourne Cup Day | Tuesday 1 November |
| Year 11 Examinations | Thursday 10 November through to Wednesday 16 November |
| Curriculum and Assessment Day – Student Free | Friday 18 November |
| Year 12 Early Commencement Our current Year 11 cohort will transition to Year 12 |
Monday 21 November – Friday 2 December |
| 2023 Student Leadership Day Only applicable for elected student leaders |
Monday 5 December |
| Prideaux Gallop Themed fun run in support of a local charity. All students welcome. Presentation Assembly Rehearsal |
Tuesday 6 December |
| Presentation Assembly Students are dismissed at 3:30 pm for the summer break |
Wednesday 7 December, 1:30 pm
|
| Attendance for our 2023 Year 12 cohort is compulsory until Friday 2 December. They are also required at the Presentation Assembly on Wednesday 7 December in full summer uniform including their blazer.
They are all welcome and encouraged to attend the Prideaux Gallop on Tuesday 6 December. |
|
Year 12
Our current Year 12 families were emailed a letter on Monday 3 October outlining their key dates and other important information regarding their final weeks at school.
Student Supervision Before and After School
We have been experiencing an increase in the number of students arriving at school quite early in the mornings. Staff are not required on campus until 8:30 am and active student supervision begins at 8:35 am. It is important that parents know that their children will not necessarily be actively or passively supervised prior to 8:30 am.
Active supervision in the afternoons ends at 3:55 pm but our Library is open until 4:45 pm and students are welcome to complete homework, access the library’s resources or wait in the Library for a parent or guardian to collect them.
Class of 2022 Celebration Day
On Wednesday 19 October we will be celebrating our Year 12 cohort and their final day of official classes. This day really is a celebration and an opportunity to recognise their achievements as a cohort and their contribution to our school. On this day traffic conditions are often slower than on a normal school day and we wanted to warn parents and guardians of potential delays on this day.
Our Celebration Day includes students arriving in costume and celebrating their final morning together. They then move to their Principal’s Morning Tea, hosted by Mr Herbert, their Final Year 12 Assembly and then enjoy a barbeque lunch and activities on the oval to end their day.
Parents and Guardians are invited to join us for the Year 12 Final Assembly commencing at 12:00 noon in the gymnasium.
This month on SchoolTV – Online Gaming
Games are an integral part of human behaviour. It is normal and healthy for young people to engage in play as a part of their daily lives, including playing games online. And like most activities, online gaming can have both positive and negative outcomes. It can be intimidating and confusing for carers trying to understand a young person’s online experiences with many considering that staring at a screen is an unhealthy habit. However, the World Health Organisation does believe that as well as the risks, there are also many positive benefits associated with online gaming and these could be key in nurturing bonds with others.
During the pandemic, there was an explosive growth of gaming as people sought much-needed connection during isolation. In the media, gaming often gets bad publicity because most coverage tends to concentrate on the minority of gamers who play to such an extent that it compromises all other areas of their life. However, online gaming can teach young people many skills including teamwork, concentration, communication and problem-solving. It requires a level of interaction and skill from the player; unlike watching television, which is more passive.
Online communities provide opportunities for young people to feel socially connected and have a sense of belonging. At healthy levels, gaming can increase their self-esteem and social acceptance. However, any behaviour, when taken to the extreme, can also have a negative impact on a young person’s everyday life. Understanding what your young person experiences online and knowing the warning signs if they are at risk, will help nurture a more positive relationship with online gaming and help your family find the right balance.
If you are concerned about your young person’s online gaming habits, it is important to consider a number of factors. This edition will provide strategies on how to deal with any issues you may be experiencing.
If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the appropriate Head of Year for further information or seek medical or professional help.
Here is the link to this month’s edition https://stpaulsags.vic.schooltv.me/newsletter/online-gaming
Laura Butterworth
Head of Warragul Secondary School
WHAT’S ON
OCTOBER
13 October SEISA Summer Junior Round 1 – BYE
12 Angry Men, Eagle Nest Theatre, Year 11 students, Warragul Secondary School Science Centre Lecture Theatre, 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm
14 October St Paul’s Academy of Music – Kapelle Konzert Rehearsal, Little Theatre, Gippsland Performing Arts Centre, Traralgon, 12:00 noon to 4:30 pm
St Paul’s Academy of Music – Kapelle Konzert, Little Theatre, Gippsland Performing Arts Centre, Traralgon, 7:00 pm
19 October Year 12 Celebration Day, 8:55 am to 3:30 pm
Year 12 Final Assembly, Warragul Secondary School Gymnasium, 12:00 noon
20 October SEISA Summer Junior Round 2
24 to 26 October Year 11 VET Surf Camp, Wilsons Promontory
24 to 28 October Year 9 Outdoor Education Camp
27 October SEISA Summer Junior Round 3
29 October AusCycling Schools Mountain Bike Series – Final, Spring Gully, Bendigo
31 October Mid-term Break
NOVEMBER
1 November Melbourne Cup Day
3 November SEISA Summer Junior Round 4
* Please note that all events/excursions are dependent on COVID-19 restrictions.
* TBC – to be confirmed.
DOBSONS TRADING HOURS
Please note that some COVIDSafe procedures may still apply. We thank you for your cooperation.
Order online or click and collect: Please ensure that you only attend the store to collect your items once you have received notification that your order is ready, order here.
ST PAUL’S PARENT PRAYER GROUP
“Where two or three people gather in my name, I am there with them.” Matthew 18:20
The St Paul’s parent prayer group meets on the first Monday of each month during school terms. We try to keep the meeting brief (we are usually done by 9:45 am) and casual (younger children are most welcome). The group encompasses people both very comfortable with praying, as well as those newer to praying with others. Feel free to get in touch with any questions beforehand or just attend when you are able during the year.
Our next gathering is Monday 7 November, 9:00 am in the Prideaux Centre, Warragul Junior School
Contact: Sheryn Cutler 0417 158 937 or sheryn.cutler@gmail.com
YEAR 8 TEEN MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID COURSE
The Year 8 cohort enjoyed an opportunity to attend the Live4Life launch day at Lardner Park last term with Year 8 students from other schools.
The next stage of the community, school and global effort to help young people manage and support their own wellbeing and the wellbeing of their peers is for students to undertake a Teen Mental Health First Aid course.
Earlier in the year, a number of staff were involved in discussions with Andrew Fuller, a prominent adolescent psychologist. We asked about key shifts he has seen in schools following the pandemic and, in particular, about approaches to wellbeing. Dr Fuller noted that he felt research was indicating that wholesale wellbeing programs were not having the desired effect and that the best approach was to equip young people with strategies to use themselves or as a confidant for their peers, and to ensure that they understood how to seek assistance from adults.
The Teen Mental Health First Aid course takes place across four sessions this term, with an external presenter delivering the information to students. Alongside the course, we also remind students of the support structures in place at St Paul’s, to ensure that they are aware of how young people can seek help.
We are also pleased to be helping the University of Melbourne with its research attached to the course. Our Year 8 students will complete a pre-survey and post-survey to help them measure the effectiveness of the material.
Gordon Oldham
Deputy Head of Secondary, Warragul Secondary School
WHAT’S ON SPORT
| Event | Logistics | Key Information |
| SEISA Junior Competition | Round 1: Thursday 13 October (BYE)
Round 2: Thursday 20 October Round 3: Thursday 27 October Round 4: Thursday 3 November Round 5: Thursday 10 November Finals: Thursday 17 November |
Selection process: Trials completed on Thursday 6 October.
Weekly logistics (travel arrangements): Will be published on the MyStPauls Sport page each Friday. Training information, fixtures and results: Will also be published regularly on the MyStPauls sport page. Event and consent information: Will be distributed to families via Consent2Go after trials. This will need to be approved by Tuesday 11 October.
|
| 2022 Alpinestars Schools Mountain Bike Series – Victoria | Saturday 29 October
Spring Gully, Bendigo Round 5 Final |
Selection process: Students expressed interest in joining the mountain bike team in Term 2. Students have competed in events already at Lysterfield, Haunted Hills and the You Yangs.
The Alpinestars Schools Mountain Bike Series – Victoria is a great way for kids to get involved in racing their mountain bikes for their school in a fun and supportive environment. New and experienced riders are encouraged to participate. Team information: Consent2Go information has already been approved by families in Term 2. Please check emails for regular communication. |
| Victorian All School Track and Field Championships | Weekend 1: Saturday 29 – Sunday 30 October
Weekend 2: Saturday 5 – Sunday 6 November |
Selection process: All students who were members of the SEISA Athletics team have received an email outlining the nomination process. Emails were sent to students and parents/guardians. An announcement has also been placed on the MyStPauls Sport Page
Team information: Consent2Go information will be sent to families in Term 4. Please check emails for regular communication. This event will require parents to provide transport and supervision at the competition. |
| Other Term 4 Sport Information
All key sporting event information is published regularly on the MyStPauls Sport page. Students and families must be checking this page to keep informed. Further information on the St Paul’s Equestrian teams will be published on the MyStPauls page throughout the term. Term 1 SEISA sign ups for 2023 will occur in Early Commencement. |
||
Melissa Hoskings
Head of Sport, Warragul
HOUSE TUG OF WAR – CHISHOLM HOUSE 2022 CHAMPIONS
Throughout Term 2 and Term 3, students across all year levels competed in the House Tug of War competition.
With some close battles, it was again the final Years 11 and 12 events that determined the overall results. It was great to see the House Spirit at its best!
Congratulations to Chisholm House for winning the 2022 event on a countback from Lalor House.
| House | Place |
| Chisholm | 1 |
| Lalor | 2 |
| Paterson | 3 |
| Gilmore | 4 |
| Monash | 5 |
| Franklin | 6 |
Melissa Hoskings
Head of Sport, Warragul
STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN SEISA DANCE AND THEATRESPORTS DAY
On Tuesday 13 September, St Paul’s students from both Warragul and Traralgon Campuses travelled to Beaconhills College, Berwick, to compete in the 2022 SEISA Dance and Theatresports Day. COVID-19 has restricted the running of this much-loved event since 2019, so it was a great opportunity to attend and reconnect with Performing Arts students from other independent schools in our region.
Our Dance students attended either a Hip-Hop or Musical Theatre workshop with guest choreographers from Jason Coleman’s Ministry of Dance. We began with a technical warmup focusing on techniques setting a fun and energetic tone for the day. Groups then learnt a routine that included elements of the warmup. We were given a chance to rotate positions on the stage and dance in smaller groups showcasing individual talents. Finally, we were given the opportunity to perform our routine in a dance concert. Overall, it was a wonderful experience to be able to mix with other students with the same passion and served as an inspiration for dancers within our school
The company, Impro Melbourne, joined the Drama students to run an exciting workshop, where we were taught many fun improvisation games including, ‘One Minute Death’ and ‘Space Jump’. After a lunch break, both the Junior and Senior teams competed in a fast-paced Theatresports competition. Both teams made a fantastic effort, with our Senior team placing first in the final scoring. Overall, it was an amazing day and involved lots of fun and helped us to improve our Dramatic skills. Thanks to Mrs Brown, Mr Byrne, Mr Oldham and Ms Sinclair for accompanying us on the day, and Mrs Mason for organising the event.
Ashleigh Kubale, Caleb McKenna, Natasha Murcott, Olivia Nardino and Ruby Hansen
HIGH TEA FOR TIMOR
Team Timor is planning an exciting new fundraiser, High Tea for Timor, to help fund the new English Language Centre being built in Malimea Village.
Students at Malimea Village on the site where the future Early Learning Centre will be built.
Guests will be able to enjoy a gourmet afternoon tea with unlimited tea and coffee, some light entertainment and good company, all for a wonderful cause.
The event will take place from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Traralgon Tennis Club on Sunday 6 November, with tickets being $25 a head for adults and $15 for students. Bookings can be made at https://www.trybooking.com/CDIAZ.
If you are interested in donating to our raffle or silent auction to be held on the day, please contact Kirsten Enders at kenders@stpaulsags.vic.edu.au or ring 5175 9222.
Thanks for supporting Timor.
Kirsten Enders and Sophia Hastie
Traralgon Team Timor Leader and Team Timor Captain
ALUMNI REUNIONS
Spread the word! Register here to join in what is sure to be a fabulous afternoon of reminiscing and celebrating!
Click the poster for ticket sales.
From the Chaplain
WHEN MAGPIES SWOOP IN AN ANXIOUS WORLD It’s like something from a horror movie. The clacking of the beak, the whoosh and thump of the …
From the Chaplain
WHEN MAGPIES SWOOP IN AN ANXIOUS WORLD
It’s like something from a horror movie. The clacking of the beak, the whoosh and thump of the wings, the screeching…! That’s right, it is magpie swooping season. An annual occurrence that strikes fear into the hearts of many walkers, runners, and cyclists. Suddenly the streets and the paths are no longer safe. It seems like everywhere you go there is a tilted head and an evil eye watching you from the branches. Where will the next attack come from?
Magpie swooping season can be a time of high anxiety for many people and it is fascinating to see how different people respond. Some simply refuse to leave the house on foot or bike. “The risk is too great,” they say. They are overcome by a kind of paralyzing anxiety. Others see it as a declaration of war. They gear up with zip ties in their helmets, sticks in hand and march out of the house with a mix of fear and determination, like a soldier entering enemy territory. You could call it a kind of functional anxiety. And finally, there are those who are in denial. They parade around under trees declaring that it is all a conspiracy. Things don’t usually end well for these people!
Magpie swooping season makes a pretty good metaphor for the culture we live in. Except that instead of swooping magpies we are dealing with political wars, culture wars, global pandemics and environmental disasters. Author and church leader Mark Sayers describes it this way: “If there is one word that captures the emotional mood of our day, it is anxiety. This atmosphere is thickened by the news, which presents us with a constant stream of worrying trends, unprecedented events and cascading crises. We absorb this terrifying torrent of information through our digital devices; nodes connected to the internet in a kind of global electronic nervous system. A feedback loop which thrives on anger, conflict and outrage.” (https://www.premierchristianity.com/finding-peace-in-the-age-of-anxiety/13368.article)
And just like the magpie swooping scenario, people respond in different ways. Some are paralyzed by anxiety, some gear up and go to war every day and others attempt to deny that anything is happening. None of these responses are particularly helpful.
So, what is the answer? How do we parent and teach in a culture of anxiety? Perhaps the same way we might respond to someone who is freaked out by magpies – with a calm, non-anxious response. Magpies only defend an area within 50 metres of their nest. Only the male magpies defend the nest and only about 10 per cent of breeding males actually swoop humans. So not all magpies are out to get you. The best thing to do is simply change your route for a few weeks, wear a hat (and even use an umbrella), stay calm, move slowly and don’t wave your arms around. Remind the anxious person calmly of these facts and you might just get them out the door and walking again.
The late rabbi and family therapist Edwin Friedman argued that the critical factor in an anxious human environment was a non-anxious presence. Quoting Mark Sayers again, “According to Friedman, within an emotionally unhealthy social system, someone displaying a non-anxious presence plays a similar role to that of white blood cells in the human body, fighting infection and bringing health. Just as anxiety can multiply throughout a system, Friedman argued that non-anxiousness can reset it. This is our role as parents and teachers – to be a non-anxious presence for our children.
But what does a non-anxious presence look like and how do we achieve it? I will leave you with an abridged version of Mark Sayer’s thoughts on this:
“As we turn to scripture we find an example and an answer in the life of King David. David faced betrayal, emotional sabotage and a rebellion by his loved ones. He led in an anxious environment undergoing tremendous cultural change. He faced a revolt from those closest to him. Yet David is recognised in scripture as one of the most outstanding leaders the world has ever seen. David wasn’t king because he possessed deep natural reserves of grit and resolve. David was a non-anxious presence because he had the presence of God … David was a shepherd. In the shepherd, we find a biblical model of leadership, of a non-anxious presence, which is not dependent on reserves of personal power but on the presence of God – encountered in the isolation of the wilderness. David the shepherd – the man after God’s heart – was formed in this remote environment … Without God’s presence, the wilderness offers only isolation. With his presence however, it can offer us insulation from the deception of the crowd. Separate from the noise and alone in the wilderness, David found – and was formed by – the voice of God … We can only be a non-anxious presence when filled with God’s peaceful presence. Those who persist in this truth, who live and press into the presence of God, will find themselves being transformed into healing agents in our streets, workplaces, families and churches.”
May your journeys be free of avian attack and may you know “the peace of God, which transcends all understanding” (Philippians 4:7) as you seek to be a non-anxious presence for those around you.
Reverend Daniel Lowe
Senior Chaplain
From the Principal
Commencement of Term 4 The final term of 2022 is now well underway, with both campuses full of activity. Term 4 is, of course, a …
From the Principal
Commencement of Term 4
The final term of 2022 is now well underway, with both campuses full of activity. Term 4 is, of course, a very special term for our most senior students, with the Year 12s readying themselves for their final weeks of secondary education. While the Year 12s are heavily in our focus at this time, we wish everyone in our school community a successful and fulfilling final term.
Official Opening of Warragul Junior School Learning and Administration and ELC
This afternoon we are pleased to celebrate the Official Opening of the new Warragul Junior School Learning and Administration and the expansion of the Warragul Early Learning Centre. We have been delighted to have these facilities in full use since Day 1 of Term 1 this year and it is now satisfying to officially open the buildings and acknowledge the state Government’s financial contribution to the project.
Renewed Commitment to Improving Recycling Habits
Student leaders, Heads of School and I have taken the opportunity to launch a new recycling program at St Paul’s from the start of this term. At the first student assembly of Term 4 at each of our four sub-schools, we committed to improving our recycling habits and providing superior recycling facilities. New recycling/rubbish units have been installed and the plan is for the number of these to increase over time.
2022 John Leaver Award
One of the most prestigious awards presented each year at St Paul’s is the John Leaver Award. The recipient must be a Year 11 student who exemplifies characteristics typified by Reverend John Leaver himself, namely:
• A demonstrated spirit of compassion;
• Resilience – a sturdy resolve in the face of obstacles;
• Ability to connect with others, including those of other generations; and
• Broad-mindedness, like that which brings together people of different denominations and different faiths.
Previous winners have been James Gourley (2019), Annabelle Rajasingham (2020) and Natasha Murcott (2021).
I am delighted to announce that the 2022 winner of the award is Gopika Menon. Congratulations, Gopika!
Cameron Herbert
Principal
