12 October 2017

Newsletter Articles

From the Principal

Dear Parents / Carers,

Welcome to Term 4. With only seven and a half weeks remaining until the end of the 2017 academic year, and still SO much to achieve, staff and students ‘hit the ground running’ upon returning to school last Tuesday.

As much as I am reluctant to start thinking too much about 2018 as we have not completed our 2017 leg yet, planning for next year is well and truly underway, with the 2018 School Annual Improvement Plan (SAIP) already in draft form. Following our internal school review, NAPLAN analysis, internal data analysis, and the results of our recent School Satisfaction Surveys, we have selected the following as our 2018 ‘rocks’:

• Differentiated Teaching and Learning
• Home School Community Partnerships

Both these areas complement our work to date beautifully, so we are very excited about the road ahead. The completed plan will be ready for publication by the end of the 2017 academic year.

To commence our final term in such a fast-paced manner, the arrival of Queensland Mental Health Week seemed fitting. With families constantly trying to ‘squish’ so much into daily living, and increased pressure from society to obtain ‘perfection’ in all that we do and all that we are, the provision of a moment to take stock and reflect on the gifts that surround us was magnificent.

In the lead up to this week, I undertook a little research, and was horrified to discover that, according to the Child and adolescent Component of the National Survey of Mental Health, 14% of young people aged between 4 and 17 have a mental health problem (Australian Bureau of Statistics). I also discovered that depression is recorded as being one of the most common health problems in children, while adolescents with mental health problems report a high rate of suicidal thoughts and other health-risk behaviours including drug use.

Supporting mental health in children is not something to which I, as the parent of two school-aged children, have given much consideration to, and it truly made me question my priorities. But, the more I read and pondered, the more I realised that it is the simple things that parents do that has the biggest impact on our children’s wellbeing.

For example, when we make our children feel connected to and welcome in our family, we are supporting their positive adjustment, their self-identification, and their sense of trust in others and themselves, all of which are important in promoting mental health.

When we support our children to achieve reasonable levels of academic success and help them to develop their talents and interests, we are helping them to feel competent and more able to deal with any stress they may experience. Helping them to be socially competent, having friends and staying connected to them, enhances mental wellness.

Our children need to know that they can make a positive contribution to the lives of other people and, if we promote positive behaviours such as respect, responsibility and kindness towards others, it will give them a lead into the wider community and broaden their social adjustment.

When we encourage good physical health, we support good mental health. Healthy eating habits, regular exercise and participation in sporting activities with peers, together with adequate sleep, protect our children against anxiety, anger, stress and depression.

Besides promoting participation in activities that encourage a good attitude and healthy participation, there are many activities which we should discourage our children from accessing too frequently. These areas include television, movie and video game activities, all recommended to be situated out of bedrooms and in a common family area. Parental control of these technologies, as well as the Internet, is vital if we, as parents, are to be the leading influence in the development of our children.

Most parents have a high expectation of how their family should be and how each member should develop. Most parents would, however, realise that there is no such thing as perfect children or perfect parents. All children misbehave sometimes and all parents make mistakes. Our children need to be accepted for who they are, and loved and encouraged to grow up at their own pace in order to develop good self-esteem and confidence.

With loving care and concern for each member, family relationships build up over time. Doing things together, being appreciative of one another, complimenting each other and finding solutions to problems as a team, all help to develop positive attitudes, a positive and hopeful outlook on life, and ensure good mental health.

So please enjoy this week together, and find a moment to celebrate the little things with your family, because it’s these moments that pave the way for a bright and happy future for our students.

Wishing you God’s every blessing,

Sarah Hamilton
Principal

APA News

2017 EXITING STUDENT ENROLMENTS

As we are beginning class preparations for our 2018 year levels we kindly ask that families who are aware that they are relocating or will be attending another school to please notify the school office on 4057 6920 or via email to mthorpe@cns.catholic.edu.au. We understand families may be unsure at this stage but ask that when you have received notification that you advise the school as quickly as possible.

As we currently have a waitlist for most year levels for 2018, we would like to confirm our existing enrolments for next year before making offers to new families. Your prompt attention to this matter is greatly appreciated.

Please note a formal exit notification form is required to be completed and an exit interview organised with the School Principal in order to finalise student enrolments.

Should you require an Exit form, they are available for collection from the school office, via email upon request, or click on the link below to download a copy.

2018 CLASS PREPARATIONS

As we commence the preparations for student placement for 2018, parents are requested to trust the staff at Holy Cross with the process of class allocation. Our practice at Holy Cross is very transparent – we invite every child to trace around their hand and, after some helpful tips from their teacher, the children write the names of friends they work well with inside each of the five fingers. Staff then work through these lists and endeavour to place the children with at least one of their selection. This first draft is then shared with previous teachers and specialist staff to ensure that past experiences can be taken into consideration. Mrs Hamilton, Mrs Roberts and I then cross reference these lists with any other information we might have, and the lists continue to be circulated until we are satisfied with the combination.

Parents are welcome to contribute to this conversation, but please do NOT request a specific teacher for your child. Requests such as these cannot be met. If you do have any concerns or queries, please book a time for a chat with your child’s current class teacher who will be more than happy to put your mind at rest, or put your request in writing to the Principal. And don’t forget, positive conversations at home about the inevitable changes ahead ensure a happy transition.

HOLY CROSS SWIMMING TIMETABLE – Term 4, 2017

Dear Parent/Guardian,

Swimming is a recognised part of the curriculum offered at Holy Cross. It is expected that all students will participate in this program. We have worked closely with the Smithfield Pool Swimming Instructors to create a course which includes essential ‘Swim and Survive’ skills. It is not simply swimming laps. Those students who are not well enough to walk over to the pool probably aren’t well enough to be at school either.

• Students must wear hats and shoes when walking to the pool, and they must wear a shirt/rashie with sleeves whilst at the pool and when swimming. Girls are asked to wear a one-piece swim suit. It would be great if students had sun-block at school so that they could apply it before walking to the pool.
• Students are expected to be in school uniform for the commencement of the day and completion, except the first class timetabled.
• Long hair must be tied back as per school policy.
• The instructors have asked that each child wears goggles for their lessons. These are available for $10 from the pool, as a ‘school special’.
• Lesson will be primarily in the undercover heated pool to assist with sun safety.

Parent helpers are required to walk to and from the pool with EVERY CLASS. If you’re available for a particular day, could you please contact your child’s class teacher as soon as possible. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated!

Should you have any questions about the Holy Cross swimming program please speak with your classroom teacher or contact myself.

POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR FOCUS

Holy Cross Heroes

Congratulations to Term 3, Week 9 and 10 Holy Cross Heroes:

Below are a number of key dates for Term 4 2017 to consider:

Many blessings for the week

Brad Henry
Assistant Principal - Administration

APRE News

Welcome back for the final term of the year. I hope all families enjoyed a break, or at least a change in routine. It is great to see the children back showing their skills of organisation (from last week’s behaviour focus) and being ready for learning. Amelia B in Prep is just one of the students awarded a super power ‘Organisation’ card, in recognition of her efforts in the classroom. Well done to Amelia and all those students really highlighting that SEL key in the way they go about their day.

LITURGICAL LIFE OF THE SCHOOL

Upcoming liturgies and Masses:

• Class Masses and Liturgies
       - Tuesday 17th October 9:30am Year 3
       - Tuesday 24th October Prep time TBC
       - Tuesday 31st October Year 1 time TBC
       - Wednesday 8th November 9:00am Year 2
       - Tuesday 14th November 9:30am Year 4
       - Tuesday 21st November 9:30am Year 5

SOCK IT TO POVERTY

Yes…we are in “Socktober” now, which means it is time for Crazy Sock Day. This is one of our annual fundraisers for Catholic Mission, as it is World Mission Month. It is so easy to get involved, whilst making a bold statement in support of those in our world who are in need. Students, parents and staff are encouraged to bring along a gold coin donation and wear mismatched, brightly coloured, or unusual socks to school. For students, these will be in addition to their normal school uniform.

The Catholic Mission website, available via the link below, explains beautifully the purpose of taking part in Crazy Sock Day, and also the call to ‘mission’ as Christians.

“World Mission Day (part of World Mission Month here in Australia) is celebrated every year in every country wherever there are Christians committed to building a better world for all of God's people, a world where everyone has all they need to live a dignified and fulfilling life. It is the day on which we reflect on the urgency to proclaim the Gospel in our times. This year, World Mission Sunday is 22nd October 2017.

Missionary activity is, fundamentally, a going out of oneself in love, a reaching out to see God in everyone and to share God’s love with each person we meet – especially our poor and marginalised. Catholic Mission around the world has the responsibility of promoting a dignified and fruitful celebration of World Mission Day.

Jesus’ mission of creating a world where all can live a fully dignified life is still far from completion. Therefore, the whole month of October has been dedicated to reflecting on the central mission of the Church to help all Christians in their commitment to Christ’s mission of love, mercy, forgiveness, peace and justice for the world.”

A big focus of Catholic Mission’s fundraising and awareness campaign this year relates to children in Uganda. Sr Mary Goretti and an order of religious sisters help to run St Luke’s Health Centre, in a small village west of the Ugandan capital. They need assistance with funds to fix a leaky roof, to provide an ambulance for those who cannot travel to the health centre, and for a range of other items that we are lucky enough to be able to access here in Cairns. Not only do they need financial support, but also our prayers.

A new initiative of Catholic Mission here in Cairns, in conjunction with Catholic Education Services and NorthPoint Photography, is professional portrait sitting for families in Cairns, for only $20. Proceeds from these portraits will go to the work of Catholic Mission. Attached is a form to fill in if families are interested in taking up this offer. The photos will be taken at either Catholic Education Services in Cairns, or in the Earlville Parish Meeting Room in November and early December. If you are interested in taking up this opportunity, please fill in the attached form and submit it with your payment by 27th October.

WONDER OF LIVING

By now you should have received an email about a Personal Development Program based on the “Wonder of Living” series, that will be running during Weeks 4 and 5 of this term, for Years 2 to 6 students. It is an age appropriate sexuality program that runs throughout the Diocese of Cairns, facilitated by Natural Fertility Services. It links well with the HPE curriculum. Parents are invited to one the information sessions on Monday 23rd October. This will give you a chance to see the content of the movies that will be shown, to meet with one of the presenters and to ask any questions you might have. If you do not wish for your child to participate in the program, please return the attached note.

REFLECTION AND PRAYER FOCUS FOR THE WEEK

Found or found out?

My niece brought home, mid-term, a sheet that both her parents had to sign. It stated that she was falling behind in chemistry. A free and frank response was given by both parents – then the family set down to work. Her older brother stated that the text book she was using was ‘useless’. The one he had used three years previously was much clearer so that was brought out. Her father sat down and went through her subject to find out just where she had gotten lost and later that afternoon her older sister was teaching her just how the periodic table worked. The body language of my niece spoke of sheer relief: she knew she was in trouble but, like most adolescents, and indeed all of us for that matter, she had trouble putting her hand up and saying, ‘Help!’ She feared being found out but discovered herself found instead. When we are ‘found out’ we think we will be humiliated even more but when we are ‘found’ we are given the hope of change. We discover there is a way out of the mess.

Often we can fear approaching God because of messes in our lives. We think we have to clean up our act before we are worthy. Nothing could be further from the truth. God knows utterly what is out of kilter, even wrong with our lives…and is waiting to help. That is the point of the parables of the Lost Sheep, Lost Coin and the Prodigal Son. We do not have to find our way out of the mess…which we probably couldn’t anyway. We just have to stop, put aside our fear of being found out and let ourselves be found instead. Go on, sit down in one of your messes and say, ‘God, please find me!’

Loving God, you know my life – my joys and successes as well as my griefs and disasters. Come find me in the midst of my mess. Let your good Spirit give me the courage to trust what you could do. I ask this in Jesus’ name confident that you will hear me.

Sr Kym Harris osb

Jacinta Roberts
APRE Holy Cross

Holy Cross Mentoring Programme

Our Mentoring Program for Term 3 2017 concluded with a fantastic Celebration. A HUGE thank you is owed to a number of stakeholders including: our P&F Association for their generous financial support; Jane and Chris Healy of Silver Cup Trophies for their donation of highly cherished medallions; Mrs Hamilton; Mr Henry; Mrs Roberts; our highly passionate mentors Ms Dee Cois, and Mrs Jenni Rigby; the parents and teachers of the students involved in the program for their strong support; and to the students involved for their cooperation and dedication to becoming the best people they can be.

If you believe your child would benefit through participating in an individualised program developing any one or more of the following: confidence, persistence, emotional resilience, organisation and/or getting along, please talk to your child’s teacher.

Natalie Martin
Mentoring Coordinator

Administration News

2017 Fee Concessions

Tuition Fee Discount Scheme for eligible Means-Tested Health Care Cards/Pension Cards

If you are a holder of an eligible Means-Tested Health Care Card or Pension Concession Card, please present your card to the school office for verification. The school will make a copy of your card and provide a Health Care Card Tuition Fee Discount Scheme Form for you to complete. The fee discount will then be applied to tuition fees on future term invoices.

The discount arrangement will expire on the expiry date of the card or at the end of the school year. Parents and carers receiving the discount have a duty to inform the school of any renewal or change in eligibility for the card.

Unfortunately, due to system requirements we are unable to backdate concession card discounts, so all applications and cards must be presented to the school office prior to the fees being issued for the discount to apply to that term.

School Dental Van Service

Cairns and Hinterland Oral Health Services wishes to advise families that our District is able to continue to offer FREE dental treatment to all children and young people from 0 – 17 years old.

Appointments will need to be arranged by contacting our Central Booking Service on 1300 300 850. Appointments for examination can also be made at the Smithfield clinic.

Please note that ALL students will need to have a parent or legal guardian present at the time of the appointment. (Additionally, we are also happy to see high school siblings from Smithfield High School due to the close proximity)

Further treatment required will be carried out at the Smithfield Community Centre, Danbulan Street, Smithfield.

Regards,

Oral Health Services
Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service

Look What’s Been Going On…

30th Anniversary Celebrations

Holy Cross Day

Colour Run

Swimming Programme

GOTCHA Points

The total number of GOTCHA Points collected for Week 1 is 1656 points.

It was very close between the classes this week with many classes gathering a lot of GOTCHA points. It was particularly close between Prep 0H, 2S, and 4C. Congratulations to Prep OH who gathered the most overall and to DILLON the House with the most points for the week.

P and F News

2017 Holy Cross Christmas Fair – Saturday 18th November

Dear Parents, Teachers & Friends

It is that time of year again, where the Holy Cross community spirit is called upon to give generously in the lead up to our main fundraising event of the year – The Christmas Fair.

Time for a change: The P&F committee voted not to re-new our contract with Wonder Fair this year deciding it was an opportunity to bring some much needed change to the event, allowing us to organise rides and ticket sales ourselves, and hopefully raise more money in the process. Also, rather than allocating class helpers to a particular stall, we are trialling an online sign up for volunteers this year.

“All things FAIR” booth: A P&F delegate and myself will be pitching up outside the Tuck-shop each Friday before assembly from 7.45 – 8.45am. Here you can return and collect raffle books, donate bric-a-brac for the white elephant stall, enquire about sponsorship opportunities, give monetary donations or vouchers from your business, plus someone will be there to answer any questions or queries you may have regarding the Fair.

Ticket Sales: Early Bird Ride Tickets are currently on sale through Flexi-schools which allows $10 discount. This offer closes on 10th November at 5pm after which tickets will only be available for purchase at full value on the day of the fair (4pm - 7pm.) You may collect your ride tickets at the “All things Fair” booth each Friday morning as stated above. Please note we will not send tickets home with students unless confirmed arrangement with parents have been made. Once your tickets have been collected and signed for, please ensure you keep them safe until fair day as they are non-refundable. Contact pandf@holycross.qld.edu.au or Susie Dobson (0414 801 412) if you are unable to collect tickets on Friday mornings.

Volunteer sign up: You will shortly receive an e-mail invitation from SignUpGenius. Every volunteer is needed and valued as our Fair can't happen without you. Even if you can commit to just one thing, it will make a huge difference to the success of this year’s event.

Key Date: On Friday 3rd November pupils are invited to participate in a ‘Christmas Clobber’ Dress Day. On this day we ask pupils to bring a bottle for the Bottle Tombola and a chocolate bar for the Choc Lotto stall. Prizes for the most creative dress ups will be given out on the day (more information to follow nearer the date.)

For more information please join our P&F Facebook Group and stay tuned for more exciting announcements. I look forward to seeing you over the coming weeks. Thank you in advance for your support and generosity.

Kind regards

Mel Emmerick
P&F President – Holy Cross School

P & F Meeting

The next P & F Meeting will be held on Wednesday 8th November at 6.30pm in the school library. We look forward to seeing you there. If you have any items that you wish to discuss at a P & F meeting, please complete the Agenda Item Request form and email to the P & F President or Secretary indicated on the form, or leave at the school office at least two days prior to the meeting.

Tuckshop News

Monday Tuckshop Operating Hours

A reminder that the Tuckshop now offers a meal service and over the counter snack purchases for first break only on Mondays. Regular meal services will continue as per normal Tuesday to Friday.

EFTPOS Available

Eftpos is now available for the convenience of families and staff to utilise for purchases/payments of $10 and above.

Flexischools

Many thanks to the families and staff utilising the Flexischools Online Ordering Service. Flexischools can be accessed by clicking on the link at the bottom of the School Website or directly via the link below:

Note: In regards to student absences and orders – If your student is absent or going home unwell, it is necessary to inform the office staff or the Tuckshop directly ASAP so the order can be cancelled and credited back to your online account. In the event that we are not advised, or advised too late and the order has already been prepared – the credit will be forfeited or partially forfeited for the items that must be disposed of. Please advise of order cancellations by contacting the office on 40576920 or directly to the Tuckshop via mobile 0422 712 461.

Volunteers required

As always I am on the lookout for extra hands in the Tuckshop. If you can offer some of your time to help out, please contact me on 0422 712 461.

Also if anyone is a keen baker and would be willing to help out with baking some menu items (can be baked at home, ingredients supplied or reimbursed) please contact me on the mobile number supplied above.

Tuckshop Menu

Please click on the link below for the Term 3 Tuckshop Menu.

Many thanks,

Belinda Patmore
Convenor - Holy Cross Tuckshop

Music News

Instrumental Lessons

Do you want to join the Holy Cross Band? We have Trumpets, Trombones, Saxophones, Flutes and Clarinets waiting for some keen young musicians. If you are interested in learning to play one of these instruments and to join the Holy Cross Band, then collect a green “Instrumental Lesson Request” form from the main school office and we can start the ball rolling with your enrolment. If you are unsure which instrument is for you, come and see us on Friday mornings in the French room and we can help.

Mr Hurdley and Mrs Mcintyre

Sports News

Basketball

A School Hoops Basketball Program is being offered at Holy Cross before school on Wednesday mornings from 7.15am to 8.15am for the next 5 weeks commencing 18/10/17. For more information and registration form please click on the link below.

Netball

Term 4 NetFun Program

Cairns Netball’s School based NetFun program is designed for boys and girls aged 5-10 years. The program offers an opportunity for children to increase their social and motor skills in a friendly and fun environment. The program creates a positive and fun experience of netball for each participant and builds a pathway into the Cairns Netball Association to encourage continued involvement in the sport.

This program will be offered again after school in Term 4 from 3.05pm to 4.05pm at the Multipurpose Court. Sessions commence on this Thursday 12th October through to Thursday 23rd November 2017.

Please click on the link below for further information and registration form. Registration forms may also be collected from the school office.

Netball Coaching Clinic

The Marlin Coast Netball Region is inviting netball players aged 7 – 10 years to a free netball clinic with netball legend and former Diamonds Captain, Vicki Wilson on Sunday 12th November from 10.00am – 11.15am. As spaces are limited, please click on the link to register your interest and RSVP to president.marlincoast@gmail.com as soon as possible. Please note players do not need to have any experience in the sport.

Marlin Coast Swimming Club

Community Notices

St Francis Xavier’s Cent Sale

MacKillop Catholic College Cent Sale

Drama Classes

TYC Drama Classes for 5yrs+ (Every Monday from 330pm – 430pm at Trinity Beach State School, New Enrolments Welcome)

Looking for engaging, creative and educational after-school activities? Then come and tread the boards at The Young Company Theatre this term! Your young performer will discover their electrifying creative abilities, super charged social confidence and magnetic idea generation skills as they are nurtured through our powerful youth theatre framework. For more information phone 40414066, email admin@theyoungcompany.com.au, visit our website via the link below, visit us at 169 Bunda St, Cairns City. Classes across the Cairns region.