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- Message from the Principal
- Mission & Learning at Joey's
- Sports News
- Student Awards
- Student News
- News from the Enviro Team
- Canteen News
- eSafety Parent Webinars - Term 2
- NSW Premier's Reading Challenge 2024
- What is the NCCD?
- St Joseph's OOSH & Vacation Care
- School Fees
- How to Purchase your child's School Uniform
- How to Apply for a Bus Pass
- Learn more about COMPASS- School Communication Platform APP
- Child Safety Handbook
- BILLBOARD
Dear Parents, Caregivers and Families,
While Term 2 is now well underway, it was once again great to see our students return to school last week. Faces were full of smiles and many students ran into school to see their friends and teachers. How lucky am I to work in such a rewarding environment. It was also great to see the turn out from both our Macleay Valley Catholic Schools at the ANZAC Day March in town on ANZAC Day.
Over the break, we painted our Primary COLA, added storage cupboards in the Hall to tidy it up, and neatened up the Year 1 stairwell. Which were all scheduled maintenance and upgrade jobs.
We have much to celebrate in the upcoming weeks, which begun with our Mother’s Day Mass today. The students will have plenty of representative opportunities this term within both sporting and academic fields, all of which will see this term fly by.
Our Kindergarten 2025 numbers are looking very healthy, with enrolments interviews occurring this term.
Finally, I remind all families about our uniform expectations. As the weather gets colder and wetter, we usually see a few non uniform items beginning to creep in such as jumpers and jackets. St Joseph’s has several colder weather uniform items for your children to wear to stay warm and dry.
All student’s not wearing the correct uniform must have a note explaining why and when the issue will be rectified. Uniform infringement notes will be sent home if incorrect uniform continues.
As always, I thank you for your support in regards to your child’s ongoing learning and growth.
Guy Campbell
Driving Excellence in the Macleay
GOSPEL REFLECTION - It Doesn't Stop Here
Anyone who has ever lost anybody and experienced loss and 
deep grief may look at this week’s Gospel and this moment in
Christianity and think... this is a lot. I wonder what the disciples
might be feeling – they had already lost Jesus, on Good Friday,
they were mourning, they were grieving and their hearts were
sad, lost. And then they experienced His resurrection, spending
time with the resurrected Christ. And now, He leaves them
again.
However, it doesn’t stop there. It was never meant to stop there.
This is not about losing somebody, “letting them go” and finding peace that they are in heaven. What He actually says to His disciples is that you are going to be empowered, you are going to be able to do things in this world that you never thought possible, and you do this in my name, and I am always going to be near. Jesus sends His Holy Spirit to be with us. Next week, Sunday the 19th, is Pentecost Sunday.
Jesus, urges His disciples in this moment, to go into the world and tell everyone about this love and this way of life.
So, it was their time then, and it is our time now to fully understand that we can do things we never thought possible in the name of love. With this backing of heaven, and the knowledge that all things are possible, we really do have the ability to give deeply of our time and our talents to serve those seeking our support.
Can you recall a time when you did something you initially thought was impossible?
Reflection by Corinne Lindsell
“Are you resolved to be faithful stewards of the mysteries of God”
Chrism Mass Renewal of Promises
Prayer
Lord, hear the desires of our hearts, hear the whispers in the night, Grant us peace.
Amen
Sourced from:
https://cms.vinnies.org.au/media/aeudns1a/srg_may_sept_2024_web.pdf?folder=nsw__spiritual-reflection-guides&path=aeudns1a%2Fsrg_may_sept_2024_web.pdf
With Mrs Krystal Brady, Assistant Principal, Learning & Teaching and Mrs Erin McGovern, Assistant Principal, MissionMOTHER'S DAY MASS 2024
TELL THEM FROM ME - PARENT SURVEY
In the next three weeks we will be inviting students, teachers and parents to provide feedback on their experience of our school using an online survey. The surveys are an important part of our whole school evaluation and planning process.
We would like to invite you to complete the Tell Them From Me (TTFM) Partners in Learning survey. As we value the role of parents and carers within our school community we would greatly appreciate your feedback. The information you provide will be used to maintain our commitment to working together in partnership to further improve student learning and wellbeing at St Joseph's Kempsey.
The survey is anonymous and will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. You are able to access the parent survey on your computer or mobile device by using the URL below:
PROFESSIONAL LEARNING
On Monday 29th April the entire staff of St Joseph’s participated in some wonderful professional learning presented by psychologist Karen Young. Karen is the author of several books and has her own website, HeySigmund. Karen is a highly sought after speaker and presents at conferences nationally on the topics of neuroscience and anxiety. Her books ‘Hey Warrior’ are fabulous and accessible ways to support any child experiencing feelings of anxiety. Her website also has an array of information with many practical tools and strategies to support children and teens going through anxiety.
Here is a link to the HeySigmund website.
Our staff session was extremely beneficial in learning about the physical symptoms of anxiety, the science and neurobiology of the brain, in particular our ‘amygdala’ and the role it plays to keep us safe and we looked at many practical ways we can support children in dealing with and managing these feelings. We are looking forward to having Karen back in our community later in the year to do some parent and student workshops.
PENTECOST MASS
ANZAC DAY
WHAT IS BULLYING?
Bullying refers to the unwanted, repeated and intentional use of words or actions against a student or a group of students to cause distress and risk to their wellbeing.
Watch What is bullying?
Bullying means behaviour that has three (3) key features:
1. It involves the intentional misuse of power in a relationship;
2. It is ongoing and repeated; and
3. It involves behaviours that can cause harm.
A student can acquire power through advantage, such as social status, popularity, an
advantage in size and strength, number of allies, age, skill, or membership in a socially defined dominant group, which could be based, for example, on wealth or gender.
Behaviours that do not constitute bullying include:
1. Mutual arguments and disagreements;
2. Not liking someone or a single act of social rejection;
3. A single episode of hurtful words or actions
4. Isolated incidents of aggression, intimidation and/or violence
Indirect bullying (also known as covert bullying) is not always immediately observable and acknowledged as bullying. Indirect bullying can be discreet and anonymous, and the person experiencing the bullying behaviour may not realise it until after it has occurred.
Examples of indirect bullying include:
● Spreading rumours: Sharing false or harmful information about someone to
tarnish their reputation.
● Gossiping: Engaging in negative discussions about a person without their
knowledge.
● Social manipulation: Encouraging others to exclude or reject a person from social
groups.
● Cyberbullying: Using digital platforms to harass, intimidate, or spread harmful
content about a person.
● Stealing: Discreetly and repeatedly stealing personal belongings.
When parents understand what bullying entails, they can effectively communicate with their child about their experiences at school, in the community and online. By using the correct terminology and understanding the dynamics of bullying, parents can encourage open dialogue and provide the necessary support.
Watch Bullying and Conflict with your child.
BOOK FAIR COMING TO JOEY'S
BIGGEST MORNING TEA 2024
This year, Year 4 will be organising and hosting 'Cupcakes for Cancer' on Wednesday 22nd May 2024. The students will take charge of promoting the event and selling delicious cupcakes. Children and staff are invited to bring in a gold coin for a cupcake.
Thank you for supporting our students in making this event a success.
MOTHER'S DAY FLOWERS FOR VINCENT COURT
2H TOWERING ABOVE THE REST
BUILD A HABIT OF GOOD ATTENDANCE
Expect your child to be at school every day. 
Setting the expectation for your child to be at school every day is a fundamental aspect of fostering a positive attitude toward education and establishing good attendance habits.
Clearly communicate to your child that attending school regularly is a top priority. If your child faces challenges related to attendance, such as reluctance or anxiety about going to school, address these issues promptly. Open communication with the school can help identify and resolve any underlying concerns.
You can seek advice free from NSW ParentLine 1300 1300 52.
With Mr Watts
RUGBY 7s & ZONE CROSS COUNTRY
ZONE CROSS COUNTRY
Due to wet weather - Zone Cross Country will be held on Wednesday 15th May at the Verge Street Ovals. Please attend to consent and payment where applicable, as soon as possible.
There will be a canteen available on the day. Hot dogs, limited assorted sandwiches, chips, lollies, muffins, drinks and water will be for sale.
NO PRE ORDERED COMPASS LUNCHES will be available.
EFTPOS on the day.
Program of Events
RUGBY 7s
Please note, Rugby 7s Carnival in Port Macquarie has been cancelled due to wet weather and the conditions of the sporting fields.
Term 2 - Weeks 1 & 2
Awards will be presented on
Friday 10th May at 1.20pm
Parents/Carers Welcome
|
CLASS |
MARY MACKILLOP AWARD Recognises Catholic attitude, behaviours & helping those in need |
ST JOSEPH Recognises positive actions witnessed within our school community |
CATHERINE McAULEY Recognises a growth mindset & effort in learning |
THE VALUES AWARD
Courage |
|
KHonour |
Alice Forrest | Amelia Simpson | Logan Griggs | Angus Mitchell |
|
KSpirit |
Reef Lainey | Gabriel Anto | Evie Beecham | Carter Dallas-Morgan |
|
KTruth |
Sage Davies | Edie Battle | Tommy Woods | Hallie McMurray |
|
1Honour |
Isabella Manuel | Toby Jackson | Archer Kerr | Casey Smee |
|
1Truth |
Noah Malcolm | Oaklyn Lyttle | Nickolah Dallas-Morgan |
Brydie Churchin |
|
2Honour |
Fern Green | Dustin Buck | Scarlett Toms | Richard Tian |
|
2Truth |
Scarlett Drew | Rory McGovern | Jack Jones | Alaynah Moor |
|
3Honour |
Hughe Lyttle | Archi Sutton | Tate Buckley | Ayva Battle |
|
3Truth |
Jay Toomey | Peyton McConnell | Thomas Simpson | Sartaj Taggar |
|
3/4 Spirit |
Wyatt Workman | Macie Jones | Bella Dallas-Morgan |
Daisy Abigall |
|
4Truth |
Max Delforce | Ava Beecham | Amailia Brandt | Liam Fulford |
|
5Honour |
Brylee Romer | Kieran Tolman | Madeline Battle | Claire Meehan |
|
5Truth |
Quinn Swan | Lillyan Moore | Isabel Toms | Brax Matheson |
|
6Honour |
Gemma Rayward | Indy Hawtin | Lacey Drew | Joshua Delaney |
|
6Truth |
Cheyanne Matheson | Olivia Rutledge | Amy Read | Hunter McIver |
LIAM'S TOUCH WITH FAME
Liam was lucky enough to be invited back stage to watch the performance for the last half hour. Liam also got to meet each of the cover band members and was given personal items from some of the band members that were used during the show's evening performance - drum sticks, glasses and guitar pic.
10c RETURN AND EARN RECYCLING
All proceeds are used to beautify our school grounds and assist with lunchtime gardening activities. Collection bags are available in the canteen foyer. Children who bring in a full bag receive a prize from the Enviro Prize Box (see Mrs Hagger in the Canteen).SUSTAINABILITY HUB
old phones, batteries, used stamps, prescription glasses, toothpaste tubes/brushes and plastic writing implements.
Please feel free to drop these into the bins located in the canteen foyer.
If you have other items that you think the school may be able to use for art/craft etc please contact us.
With Mrs Hagger and Mrs Crowe2024 CANTEEN MENU
OFFSITE BAGGED LUNCH
This special lunch bag will be an option for any offsite events that are held locally (no hot lunches will be delivered offsite).
The Offsite Lunch Bag consists of chicken & salad wrap or sandwich, bottle of water, muesli bar, pkt plain chips and a piece of seasonal fruit for $15. Select "Offsite Bagged Lunch" from the Compass Canteen Menus.
STUDENT BIRTHDAY BUNDLES
Should you have any queries please contact our Canteen ladies, Mrs Hagger & Mrs Crowe.
eSafety 101: How eSafety Can Help
This webinar provides an overview of the eSafety Commissioner and supporting programs and resources for parents and carers, children and young people.
Suitable for parents and carers of children and young people in primary and secondary school.
Tuesday, 14 May: 12:30 pm
Thursday, 6 June: 12:30 pm
Register here for eSafety 101
Wellbeing and Digital Technologies
An overview of strategies to protect, respond to and support your child online. This webinar will focus on the digital skills to protect and support young people’s mental health and wellbeing online.
Suitable for parents and carers of young people in secondary school.
Thursday, 16 May: 12:30 pm
Tuesday, 4 June: 2:00 pm
Register here for Wellbeing and Digital Technologies
Consent and Online Boundaries
As children begin to navigate the online world, they need to know how to make decisions around consent and boundaries. This webinar will outline strategies for parents and carers, as well as support those hard-to-have conversations.
It is suitable for parents and carers of children in primary school.
Tuesday, 28 May: 12:30 pm
Tuesday, 18 June: 12:30 pm
Register here for Consent and Online Boundaries
Setting your Child up for Success Online
An overview of having conversations about tech and online interaction, putting boundaries and rules in place, using parental controls, and monitoring your child online.
It's suitable for parents and carers of children primary school.
Thursday, 30 May: 12:30 pm
Thursday, 20 June: 12:30 pm
The NSW Premier's Reading Challenge (PRC) is an initiative of the NSW State government. It aims to encourage in students a love of reading for leisure and pleasure and to enable them to experience quality literature. It is not a competition but a challenge to each student - to read, to read more and to read more widely.
This is an optional challenge that can be done at home. Students are welcome to borrow challenge books from the library during their class lessons, which our teacher librarians will identify for them. Throughout the year your child’s teacher may also log books for your child that have been read in class. Students can include any books read from the end of the 2023 challenge on their 2024 reading record. Key dates for the 2024 challenge are:
- 26 February 2024 - challenge opens for student entries
- Friday 23 August 2024 - challenge closes for student entries
- Friday 6 September 2024 - final date for coordinator validations of completed reading records.
Term 2 PRC booklists are now live - 158 new books have been added (please click booklist update to view).
In order to complete the Challenge, students must read the following number of books based on their Challenge Level:
|
Challenge Level |
Number of books you must read |
Minimum number of PRC books |
Maximum number of Personal Choice books |
PRC book lists you can read from |
|
K-2 |
30 |
20 |
10 |
K-2, 3-4, 5-6 |
|
3-4 |
20 |
10 |
10 |
3-4, 5-6, 7-9 |
|
5-6 |
20 |
10 |
10 |
5-6, 7-9 |
|
7-9 |
20 |
10 |
10 |
5-6, 7-9, 9plus |
|
3-9 (see rules on PRC site) |
20 |
10 |
10 |
All booklists |
Book lists can be found when your child logs into their account via this link; using their unique username and password. Each child has a unique username and password, if you would like this please contact your classroom teacher. Please take the time to explore the site.
If you are having trouble logging your own books online, please download the online PRC Reading Log, once complete return to school ensuring your child’s name is on the top, and we will upload the information for you. If you have any questions feel free to contact us for more information.
Happy Reading!
WHY JOEY'S OUT OF SCHOOL HOURS CARE?
We have two dedicated classrooms on the St Joseph's Catholic Primary School campus in Kemp Street, West Kempsey. The classrooms are filled with resources and games to suit children from Kinder to Year 6.
Students from all schools in the Macleay Valley and surrounds are welcome at Joey's OOSHC.
Joey's OOSHC has a proud history of providing high quality out of school hours care for than ten years. Joey's dedicated and experienced staff plan and manage programs that offer both fun and educational opportunities.
To find out more and to explore the enrolment process visit our website at https://www.joeyskempsey.org.au/
To learn more about the COMPASS Platform please click here
About the Compass Platform
The Compass platform is a web-based system that is accessible on any modern web browser (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome & Safari) or by using the Compass School Manager iOS or Android App.
Parents have the ability to;
- Receive notifications about school events, news and information
- Enter an explanation for absences
- Communicate with your child’s teachers,
- Update your family contact details (mobile phone & email)
- View your child’s timetable and the school calendar
- Download and view your child’s academic reports
- Book parent-teacher conferences (parent/teacher interviews)
- Pay and provide digital consent for events (No more permission slips)
- Order lunches from the Canteen
- Pay school fees
NORTH COAST HEALTH CONNECT
North Coast Health Connect is a free new service providing health support and advice from registered nurses 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including public holidays. If you are a resident or visitor to the North Coast, you can speak or live chat with a nurse. The nurse will ask some questions to understand what’s troubling you and then provide advice on what your next step should be.
This may include self-care advice to help you to manage your health (or that of a loved one) from home, or the nurse may recommend a GP appointment or a consultation with a pharmacist. The nurses are able to book an appointment for you directly with a local general practice or pharmacy or if appropriate, can transfer you to a 24/7 GP telehealth service. If the nurse believes you need to attend an emergency department or see a different health service, they will let you know.
Visit https://northcoasthealthconnect.org.au/ for more info and save as a contact for when you need it by visiting https://qrco.de/bdkiJm or by scanning the QR code below.
