Dear Parents and Carers

It’s been lovely to be back for a full week at school and reconnecting with the St Bernard’s community. Thank you for attending our Parent/Teacher Introductory Meetings this term. These meetings provide a valuable opportunity for teachers to connect with families, discuss students' progress, and set goals for the remainder of the year. We appreciate your active participation in this important process, as it plays a crucial role in supporting each student's learning journey.

I would also like to extend my thanks to our dedicated staff for the additional hours they put in to ensure these meetings run smoothly and effectively. Please remember that communication between parents and teachers is key to supporting student success. You are welcome to contact your child’s teacher at any time throughout the year to discuss progress or address any concerns you may have.

Additionally, we send out weekly emails outlining important information for the upcoming week. Please don't hesitate to reply to these emails if you have any questions or require further clarification on any matter.

Principals System Day and Retreat

Last week, I attended the Principals’ Retreat in Bowral with Director, Ross Fox, Leaders from Catholic Education and Principals from across our Archdiocese. Fr Timothy Radcliffe led us in the retreat. He led the following 4 sessions over the two days:

• Session One: Encounter: understanding of how moments of encounter can reinvigorate Catholic Education.
• Session Two: Discipleship: reflections on the movement of the Spirit during times of challenge and change in the Church broadly and Catholic Education specifically through a call to discipleship.
• Session 3: Mission: Discerning how Principals are called to Mission in work of Catholic Education.
• Session Four: Leadership: Catholic school principals developing a greater openness to the Holy Spirit in their leadership of Catholic Schools that inspires and builds Catholic community.

Fr Tim Radcliffe, particularly focused on discipleship and education. He emphasised discipleship as the process of learning and following the teachings of Jesus Christ. This involves being creative, spontaneous, and engaged in deep thinking and conversation. Teachers play a crucial role in forming young people to actively engage with their faith and the world around them. They guide students in understanding their identity and the purpose or meaning of life. Our schools are Sacraments of Hope. Through education, students are meant to discover their potential and purpose, thus contributing positively to society.

Overall, Fr Tim Radcliffe's perspective underscores the importance of education not only in imparting knowledge but also in nurturing individuals spiritually and intellectually. It emphasises the role of teachers in guiding students towards a deeper understanding of themselves, their faith, and their place in the world. My hope is that St Bernard’s is this place for our families.

The Principals' System Day began with an overview of Catalyst and its impact on schools. Here are some of the key improvements discussed:

• Students are experiencing notable improvements in reading, which indicates that they are receiving excellent instruction from high-performing teams.
• The NAPLAN achievement data supports the positive work happening in schools, suggesting that students are making progress and achieving desired outcomes.
• Schools have implemented intervention programs across the board, ensuring that students receive additional support when needed.
• There is a strong emphasis on assessment schedules, indicating that schools are actively monitoring student progress and adjusting instruction accordingly. Assessment data is being effectively utilised to identify students who require additional support and to tailor intervention programs to their needs.
• High-impact teaching practices are observable across classrooms, implying that teachers are employing effective strategies to facilitate student learning.
• There is emerging evidence of a coordinated whole-school approach to developing a low variance curriculum. This suggests that schools are working together to ensure consistency and quality in curriculum delivery.

These improvements indicate a commitment to student success and continuous improvement within the school system.

Supervision at School
Class learning commences each morning at 8.42am and concludes at 2:40pm Mondays to Fridays. The school grounds are open to students from 8:10am each morning and remain open to 3:00pm each school day. No supervision is provided, or responsibility taken by the school outside these hours. Please be mindful that students should not be arriving at school before 8.10am. Before School and After School Care is provided through OOSH if you require your child/ren to be at school earlier or later than school supervision times. Thank you for your support.

Welcome Barbeque and Disco
We would like to invite all our St Bernard’s families to a Welcome Barbeque and Disco on Wednesday 27 March from 5.00pm – 6.30pm. This will be held in the Lean To and on the bottom oval at St Bernard’s. There is no cost for the sausages and some of our Community Council members will be selling sweet treats. Don’t forget to RSVP by clicking on the following link by Friday 22 March. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/STBBQ2024

School Assemblies
School assemblies are held on Fridays throughout the term at 8:45 am, with different grades taking turns to lead them throughout the term. These assemblies serve as a platform to acknowledge and celebrate the learning occurring in the classroom. Additionally, they provide an opportunity to present awards to students who demonstrate readiness to learn and exemplify the values of St Bernard's school. The names of the award winners are published in the school newsletter, ensuring recognition of their achievements. Parents, grandparents, and members of the community are encouraged to attend these assemblies. Upcoming assembly dates can be found on the parent Compass calendar or the school's Google Calendar. This regular assembly tradition not only fosters a sense of community and pride within the school but also reinforces the importance of academic excellence and positive behavior among students. 

Cross Country
The annual St Bernard’s Cross Country Carnival will be held next Friday 22 March. All children from Kindergarten to Year 6 will be participating and we invite you to come along and share the day with us. We will begin our races at 9:10am. The start and finish positions for each race will be on the bottom oval. Students in Years 3-6 will compete in their age group category from 8-13 years. This is the age they are turning or have turned this year.  Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 students will participate in races in their class groups. Special treats will be sold on the day. We are looking forward to a great carnival.

Claim the date!
Our official enrolment period starts at the beginning of Term 2, from Monday 6 May - 1 June. Please encourage any families with Kindergarten students starting in 2025 to attend Open Day. This will provide a snapshot of St Bernard’s, capturing life at ‘Big School’. Open Day will be held Term 2 Week 2, Tuesday 7 May.

Thank you once again for your ongoing support and involvement in your child's education. Together, we can work towards helping every student reach their full potential.

Kind regards
Jo

Johanna Wain
Principal

NOW THE HOUR HAS COME…

Whilst the end of our Lenten journey is close, the readings of this fifth Sunday of Lent further explain our journey, what we may encounter and the benefits awaiting us as the “hour” is fast approaching.

As we read and reflect on the Gospel according to John, we become aware that it is filled with symbolism. We also get an understanding of the humanity of Jesus- this aspect of Jesus is sometimes overlooked. These points, as well as a reflection on Jeremiah’s reading and the one from Hebrews may further highlight our taking more time to think of our own Lenten  journey thus far, and the consequences of the coming of the “hour” for us.

The Gospel tells us that among those going to Jerusalem for Passover were some Greeks. Veronica Lawson RSM suggests that these people in the early church were known as “God fearers” and suggests that they were a bit like RCIA candidates in the Catholic tradition, showing an active interest in and being well informed about traditions. There is also some thought that they may have been the first Gentiles to join the early Christian Jewish movement. There was some animosity between Jesus and some Jews who were referred to as unbelieving Jews. These Jews and the Pharisees could symbolise  a more ritualistic religion which did not necessarily acknowledge a personal relationship with Jesus, a relationship Jesus worked hard to achieve. The arrival of these people signal to Jesus that His “hour” has come.

It is in this Gospel that we can see the human side of Jesus. He is troubled and calls to his Father for help and indeed save Him. Jesus then talks about a grain of wheat falling to the ground and dying before yielding a rich harvest. The grain of wheat analogy suggests “community” and “discipleship” which in turn translates into Christianity - allowing the Gospel to work: healing relationships, forming relationships and demonstrating trust in God. A symbol of how big a community can grow if we believe and “follow Him” and be rewarded by the Father.

Jeremiah tells us about a new covenant that will be written, this one written on hearts symbolising an unbreakable relationship with God, transforming our hearts and lives. We are to become His people and He our God.

The reading from Hebrews highlights that even Jesus “ learned to obey through suffering”. Is this a gentle reminder that our life may not always be easy or without pain & worry?

As Lent comes to an end we still have time to reflect on our personal “hour”

What is my personal covenant/ relationship with God and how does it play out in my daily life?

Like Jesus, we also experience difficulties. He forewarned us that to follow Him would require sacrifice. Our sacrifice , however small/slight is still important-  giving some time to help someone , putting the needs of others before our own.

Most importantly, we can cry out, ask for help. Our cries may not result in the answer we want but with trust there will a greater sense of calm.

Whilst our Lenten journey is coming to an end we should remember, that from a grain of wheat a rich harvest can be yielded. We, as a community are part of that harvest and as a member of that genuine community we should have an awareness/ understanding of discipleship and how we as participants play a vital role.

LET US TAKE TIME THIS WEEK TO PREPARE FOR THE HOUR.

Ken and Carolyn Evenden

 A Catholic Guide to Holy Week 2024

 Dear Parents and Carers,

Holy Week is the most significant week in Catholicism. Spanning from Palm Sunday to Holy Saturday, it marks the final stretch before Easter Sunday, the celebration of Jesus' Resurrection.

This year, Holy Week begins on Sunday, March 24, 2024.

During this sacred week Catholics pray and reflect on the profound journey of Jesus’ suffering, sacrifice, and victory over death.

It starts on Palm Sunday, a day that commemorates Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. Holy Thursday celebrates the Last Supper and the institution of the Eucharist while Good Friday reflects on Jesus’ death by crucifixion.

Throughout this week, Catholics reflect on the emotional intensity of Jesus' Passion, contemplate His boundless love and mercy, and anticipate the joyous hope of His Resurrection. An intentional Holy Week can serve as a spiritual pilgrimage that deepens our faith.

Palm Sunday Mass

Palm Sunday Mass will be celebrated in St Bernard’s church on the 24 March at 9.00am.

Families and children are invited to attend this special mass welcoming in Holy Week.

Children can come dressed in Holy Week costume and are encouraged to be a part of the entry procession - waving palms to welcome the king!

More information can be located as a News-feed on Compass.

CSYMA Journey With Jesus Retreat

On Wednesday 20 March Luke Maher, Nathan Galea and members of their Youth Ministry team (CSYMA) will be at St Bernard’s. They will be leading the Journey With Jesus Retreat for our K-12 Pathway schools.

The retreat is based on the underlying Gospel message of love, salvation, and forgiveness. It also provides students with the opportunity to develop their leadership skills and share their gifts and talents with others.

Lunch will be provided and students are asked to wear their Sport’s Uniform for comfort.

Parents and their children who are preparing for the sacrament of Reconciliation are invited to attend a special Catch Up meeting next Wednesday 20 March.

The meeting will be held in the church Meeting room. It will begin at 3.30 with prayer, followed by pizza and information.

Please bring along your Family Preparation book if it is completed.

Fr Loi, Year 3 teachers and myself are looking forward to seeing you next week.

A Bedtime Prayer for Children

Jesus, You know me.

You understand my thoughts.

You protect me when I am scared.

You encourage me when I’m nervous.

You comfort me when I’m hurt.

You jump with me when I’m excited.

You smile with me when I’m happy.

You watch over me as I sleep. 

     Thank you.       

Blessings on your weekend,                                                                                                                                             

Sharon Beashel

Religious Education Coordinator

Learning in Year 4

Learning Snapshot

Year 4 started the new year keen to share a little about ourselves and expand our friendships. We read the story called Who am I? by Phillip Bunting. It explored the idea that we are all from the same place, and made of the same stuff, but we each see ourselves as individuals. Through a thoughtful exploration of that idea, we asked ourselves who we really are, once all of the external stuff is stripped away. These 3D self portraits allowed us to express a little about ourselves!

During Religious Education we have reviewed different prayer types and have explored new prayer types such as prayers of blessing and meditation. We have really enjoyed contributing to our class prayer blessing book.

Our Mathematical learning has been rich and diverse. We have explored addition and subtraction up to four digits, and started to use formal algorithms for division and multiplication. We have also consolidated our understanding around place value.

Year 4 is a wonderful age group to focus on what action we can do as individuals, as a class and as a school to support our environment. Our Guided Inquiry has been carefully linked with our Geography unit. We have been drawing, writing and creating in order to learn about Australia and its various habitats. Our central focus has been on our local area, and specifically on the habitat of The Little Penguin. Students have created various art works to compliment this unit of learning. We have explored Australian Artists and used their art as the inspiration for our own floral paintings and animal drawings. We’re sure you will agree that the students have created outstanding pieces!

Our PE lessons with Mrs Holmes have allowed students to prepare for the Cross Country event! We are grateful to Mrs Holmes for all of her encouragement and support.

Girls Representative AFL

Congratulations to Ruby P and Indiana A who competed at the PSSA Girls AFL trials in Moruya last week. A fantastic experience for these ladies and it is wonderful that there are so many pathways for girls being made available in representative sport.

Archdiocesan Swimming Carnival

On Monday March 4 our amazing St Bernard’s Swimming team travelled to Boorowa to compete.

Annabelle T, Astrid B, Yana K, Arlo W, Hudson A, Jacob B, Lebron C, Raph C, George S-D, Harlo P, Addison G,  Lucy B, Beatrix F, Charlie M, Taj P, Charlotte F, Arthur S-D & Annie F.

Our relay teams were outstanding.

Junior Girls 50m Relay Team - Charlie M, Annabelle T, Addison G & Beatrix F.

Junior Boys 50m Relay Team - Arlo W, George S-D, Raph C & Harlo P.

At Archdiocesan level the students compete against all other Catholic schools in the Archdiocese as far west as Lake Cargelligo and West Wyalong and as far north as Goulburn and all the way down to the Victorian boarder. We are amazingly proud of these students for reaching this level of competition their skills and personal best times have improved so much since we started with our first carnival in February. Also the students displayed the most important quality of good sportsmanship. For some of our students this was their first time competing at Archdiocesan level and the competition and atmosphere was inspiring even though there were a few nervous butterflies.

The top two competitors in every event were selected to compete at the NSWCPS Swimming Championships to be held at Sydney Olympic Park on Wednesday 3 April. One of our awesome relay teams were selected. Congratulations to Charlie M, Annabelle T, Addison G & Beatrix F who were first in the Junior Girls 4x50m Freestyle. It was a fantastic finish, we were all jumping and cheering them on. The following students were also selected in individual events:

Arlo W - 50m Freestyle

Hudson A -  50m Freestyle

Annabelle T -  50m Freestyle

Beatrix F 50m Freestyle, Backstroke, Breaststroke, Butterfly and Individual Medley

Beatrix F was awarded Junior Girl Champion for Canberra Goulburn after a fantastic day of swimming. She now swims in all six events, an immense achievement.

We wish them well in their training and congratulate them on their wonderful swimming.

Netball Gala Day

Last week we had 13 teams of students play at the Eurobodalla Netball Cup. It was a fantastic day with our Year 6 students leading the way playing in the most amazing spirit giving their all and encouraging one another throughout the day. Year 3 developed their court play and learnt passing and positions. Year 4 were passing, shooting and scoring with students, really building on their knowledge from previous sessions to play a full game. Year 5 were outstanding they played full court positioning and really improved their footwork and knowledge of contact and obstruction. Congratulations to Year 6 who were runners up to Bateman's Bay Primary.

Most importantly, thank you to our amazing coaches Mrs Hopman, Mrs Briggs, Mr Lowe, Mrs Coulter, Mrs Coggan and Mr Maynard. We also had the most wonderful students from Carroll College who were skilled coaches and umpires, so caring, always encouraging the students throughout the day. Nothing was a trouble and their mentoring of the students was invaluable. Thank you to Brooklyn Briggs, Will McAteer, Alexis Leth, Chelsea Wood, Jake Attree, Milly Harding, Adam Klekner and Maya Barnes for umpiring. We could not have had such a successful day without our amazing staff and sports coaches.

Representative Sport Trials

Good Luck to Annie F and Beatrix F who compete at the Canberra Goulburn Netball trials this week.

Taj P, Jace T and Beau C will compete at the 11yr Rugby League and Campbell R and Tyler M the Senior Boys Ruby League. We hope you enjoy a fantastic experience.

St Bernard’s Cross Country

Our students have begun training for our annual Cross Country to be held on Friday 22 March. They have been so impressive in developing their fitness and stamina. A note has been sent home to all families with details about the events and times as well as what colour clothes to wear. It will be fantastic to have parents and families supporting our students.

Upcoming Sport Dates

Monday 18 March - K-2 AFL Skills Day at school

Friday 22 March -  St Bernard’s Cross Country

Wednesday 03 April - NSWCPS Swimming Homebush

Tuesday 09 April -  Canberra Goulburn Soccer trials

 Have a wonderful week,

 Angela Holmes

Term 1

Week 6 Class Awards

Presented: Thursday 8 March 2024.

Congratulations to the following children who received a class award last week. It is great to see so many children working hard and receiving acknowledgment for their efforts.

Well done to all!