Sport - Jess Stefanish-Smith & Melinda Walls

Kinder to Year 3 had a touch-y start to the term with our Touch NSW football clinic. Thank you to Mrs Walls for re-scheduling our clinics after the rain in Term 3.  

We have another term, jam packed full of sport!  

 Basketball 

Thank you to all parents who expressed their child’s interest via the form in Term 3. We had an overwhelming response and such limited places for the tournament team. It was a difficult selection and we empathise with students who unfortunately missed out. It is quite exciting to know how popular basketball is within our school community and we will explore further opportunities.  

We had a girls and boys team represent St Paul’s at the Basketball NSW tournament on Tuesday. These passionate basketballers came together and displayed some amazing talent. Thank you for your sportsmanship throughout the day.  

Many thanks to Mrs Mullin and Mrs Shipard who attended alongside the students. It was an early start to the day and we appreciate your efforts in providing this opportunity to our students.  

 Hockey Gala Day 

There is still time to register for the Hockey “come and try day”. Students do not need to be currently playing. Part of this day is to learn the rules and skills of hockey. Students will need to purchase a mouth guard in order to participate. All other equipment is supplied.  

 Swimming Carnival 

2026 Swimming Carnival – Early Notice  

We will be holding our 2026 Swimming Carnival on Thursday 4 December at East Maitland Pool. SAVE THE DATE! Students will be attending from years 2 – 6 with activities for all students to be included in the day. We will be seeking parental/guardian assistance for the day with timing and other roles with the infant's activities for smooth running. If this is something you will be able to assist with, please make sure you have registered your Working with Children Check details with the school through the office. 

Nominations for events will be opening in Week 4! 

NSW State Athletics – Ivy McMahon 

On Wednesday 22 October Ivy (Year 6) competed in the Senior Girls Discus and Shot Put events in Canberra. Ivy finished 6th in the state with a throw of 28.3 meters, which is an amazing result. Well done Ivy! Everyone at St Paul's is very proud of you.

Swap it 

Do you have a fussy eater at home? Try this SWAP IT tip. For more fussy eating ideas visit: 

www.swapit.net.au/fussyeating 

Primary Coordinator & Gifted Educatior Mentor - Mrs Amanda King

Safeguarding at St Paul’s

At St Paul’s, the safety and wellbeing of every child is our highest priority. We are committed to creating a school where all students feel safe, respected, and cared for.

Safeguarding means making sure our students are protected from harm and know there are trusted adults they can talk to if they ever feel worried or unsafe.

How Parents Can Support Safeguarding at Home

Families play an important role in helping children understand how to stay safe and speak up when something doesn’t feel right. Here are a few ways parents can help:

• Talk regularly: Have open, calm conversations about safety and feelings. Let your child know they can talk to you about anything, even if it feels hard.
• Identify trusted adults: Help your child name three to five trusted people they can talk to if they ever feel unsafe.
• Use everyday examples: Talk about safe and unsafe situations when watching TV, reading, or at the park.
• Encourage body confidence: Teach children that their body belongs to them and it’s okay to say no if something makes them uncomfortable.
• Set healthy boundaries online: Talk about staying safe on the internet, using privacy settings, and asking for help if something online doesn’t feel right.
• Model respectful relationships: Show your child what kindness, respect, and trust look like in everyday interactions.

By working together, we can help every child feel safe, valued, and heard both at school and at home.

Library News - Katrina Howard

Borrowing Days for Term 4 will stay the same as Term 3

Odd Weeks 

Monday Year 6 & 3W 

Tuesday Kinder & Year 1 

Even Weeks 

Monday Year 4 

Tuesday Kinder & Year 2 

Wednesday Year 5 & 3M 

Thank you for continuing to support your children to remember their library bags and library books on the correct days. It is great to see borrowing percentages continuing to be high across most classes. We endeavor at St Paul’s to promote free choice reading for pleasure and enjoyment.

Library Borrowing Cup 

Congratulations to 5W and KM on winning the Library Cup for week 10 term 4 and week 1 term 3. The cup is presented to the class who has the highest percentage of borrowers for the week. 

Overdue Notices

Final overdue notices have been sent out this week for overdue books from Term 3. If books are not found and returned, please pay the overdue fee on Qkr! Please contact the library if you feel this book has been returned already.  

Book Club  

Book Club catalogues for issue 7 have been sent home this week. Please have all orders in by Monday 3rd of November. Orders can be placed online via the Scholastic Website then by clicking on the LOOP parent portal. Thank you to all those families that order through Book Club as all orders ensure the school receives reward points to buy books and resources for our school.

Please don’t hesitate to contact the library staff for any issues or enquiries via email at Katrina.howard@mn.ctholic.edu.au   penny.sneddon@mn.catholic.edu.au

Religious Coordinator - Mr Robert Temesvary

WELCOME TO TERM 4 

Welcome back everyone to Term 4. I pray you had a restful holiday. Looking forward we have a very busy term ahead!  

SOCKTOBER MISSION DAY

Another successful mission day complete! Mini Vinnies managed to raise over $400 for the Socktober Foundation. This year the funds went to supporting children in Zambia to have access to education and basic human needs. Thank you to the wonderful Mini Vinnies team who ran the activities.

SACRAMENTS OF INITIATION 2026

The sacramental team is currently in discussions to finalise the dates for Sacraments of Initiation 2026. Keep an eye out for a post on Compass (and here) once we know for sure. I can say the meetings will be around early December.

An introduction to Catholicism

The Catholic Council of Schools Parents NSW/ACT has developed a guide, ‘Our Catholic Faith.’ This guide is intended for parents and carers and is an introduction to Catholicism, with easy-to-understand explanations of Catholic beliefs and traditions. We will be using this in our enrolment packs, but as this is a ‘new’ resource, I am sharing this with our existing school community for you to access if you wish!

GOSPEL REFLECTION

THIRTIETH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR C

Luke 18:9-14

Those who humble themselves will be exalted.

Assistant Principal - Mrs Sharna Taranto

PB4L (Positive Behaviours for Learning)

Each fortnight we focus as a whole school, on one specific positive behaviour. During our Monday morning assembly our Year 6 leaders introduce the positive behaviour focus and share examples with the school.

Students who are observed to be following our behaviour focuses receive a PB4L/ ‘Gotcha’ tokens. These tokens are placed in our grade ‘letterboxes’.

At the conclusion of each term, the tokens are tallied. The students from the winning grade receive a special reward.

The Term 3 winning grade is: Year 1!

Congratulations to these students! Their reward will be a visit from the ice-cream van!

Student BYOD Devices important message: Windows 10 is reaching end of life

Action is required for students with BYOD Windows 10 devices as Windows 10 will soon no longer be supported by Microsoft.

To ensure your student device security you should upgrade to Windows 11 as soon as possible.

Microsoft has announced that support for Windows 10 will end on 14 October 2025, meaning it will no longer receive critical security updates.

To stay protected and ensure optimal performance, it is strongly recommended that all students with BYOD Windows 10 devices follow Microsoft’s instructions and upgrade to Windows 11 as soon as possible. There is no charge for this upgrade.

• We ask that all families with Student Windows 10 computers complete this process before 15 October 2025 so that students do not experience disruptions to their learning.
• Most newer devices will support Windows 11.
• If the device is too old, you may need to consider an alternative supported device (where possible).
• If you need assistance or have questions about upgrading, please reach out to the IT support team in our school.

Why this matters:

• Microsoft will stop supporting Windows 10 from 15 October 2025.
• Upgrading to Windows 11 ensures your child’s device remains secure and supported.
• Student Work Protection: Staying current helps safeguard assignments, projects, and personal data.

Ways to install Windows 11 - Microsoft Support

Upgrade to Windows 11: FAQ - Microsoft Support

Read our FAQs for more support:

How do I check what version of Windows am I running?

• Select Start > Settings > System, then select About. You then see Edition, Version, and OS Build information.

What if my device can’t upgrade?

If a Student’s BYOD laptop is running Windows 10 and can’t be upgraded to Windows 11 (usually due to older hardware), Microsoft is offering a free security update program to help keep the device safe for one more year.

The Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is designed to keep your current Windows 10 PC protected after support ends, helping you stay secure during the transition.

How to Join Microsoft’s ESU Program

Microsoft has made it easy to enrol directly from the laptop:

• On eligible computers, a setup wizard will appear in Settings > Windows Update.
• There are three ways to enrol:

1. Free – Sync your settings to the cloud using Windows Backup. You must be logged in as administrator and with a Microsoft account.
2. Free – Use 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
3. Paid – Buy a one-year license for $30 USD (families cover this cost).

Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 | Microsoft Learn

Student Awards Week - 10 & Week 1 Term 4

Calendar Dates - Week

From the Principals Desk - Stacey Mullin

Returning Term 4

Thank you all for the love and support you have shown over the sudden loss of my dad. Our staff have been especially busy keeping everything going at school and I am eternally grateful for the extra work that has come from everyone. A huge thank you to Ms Taranto, who stepped into my shoes and my exec team of Mr Temesvary and Mrs King.

As my family continues to grieve, there will be times that I will be unavailable as I support my mum, my children, my brother, and sister, while taking time for myself. I ask for your understanding and patience.

Much love Stacey

Aussie BUSH and CANBERRA Complete

All our senior students have had an amazing time at camp and in Canberra. I can only expect they will sleep a lot over the weekend – the teachers especially. While being away from home is a big step for all students, our staff being away from their own families and children overnight has the same impact. Thank you to our teachers for the time they have given to camp and Canberra.

Yr5 Great Aussie Bush Camp 2025

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Yr6 Canberra 2025

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Classes 2026

Our school is beginning the complex process of organising class structures for 2026. Our staff spend many hours looking at structures and student needs when creating classes. They use their professional judgement and personal knowledge of your children based on academics, social and emotional wellbeing, classroom engagement and dynamics to create the classes. In order to ensure that the needs of students are met, parents are also invited to forward information that you believe should be considered in regard to the formation of classes for next year. Parents are asked to forward considerations to the class teacher and me, via email or in writing by Friday 31st October to ensure your child’s needs have been accounted for. Please note that consideration for placement with specific teachers and or students are unable to be considered due to the size and complexity of our school.

Staffing News 2026

I am both sad and excited to let you know that Susan Campbell has accepted a permanent position at St Patrick's Wallsend beginning in 2026. Susan has been a long-standing member of staff at St Paul's, providing leadership in early years learning as Lead Teacher and taking on the Primary Coordinator role for 2 years. She has been a wonderful mentor for any new staff (including myself) and student teachers who have worked in her classroom. Susan has a special gift for connecting with all children and families through her love and compassion. She will be greatly missed but we know that God has other things in mind for our Susan and we wish her every happiness. We will plan a formal farewell for Susan closer to the end of the year.

Are you moving????????

We have had word from a few families that they are in the process of moving. Please update your details on COMPASS as soon as possible. If you are planning for your child not to be at St Paul’s in 2026, please contact the office.

BLAST FROM THE PAST

During the holidays I met a large group of ex-students from St Paul’s as the graduating Year 6 class of 1993. They had lost a class member and decided on a reunion get together and asked to see the school and the changes since leaving. They had also planted a time capsule that unfortunately we have not yet been able to locate. It was a wonderful afternoon of laughs and listening to how proud they are to have been at St Paul’s and the effect their teachers had in their lives.

Basketball

This week I had the pleasure of taking 2 teams to the basketball tournament in Maitland. Both the girls and boys were fantastic sports and gelled cohesively as teams. While they made the grand finals very convincingly for their division, the pressure was too much and both teams were defeated. I was especially impressed with the development of their game after I had attended with them last year. A huge thank you to the parents who were there to support and coach the teams – basketball is not in my wheelhouse. A very special mention to Mandy Shipard who spent the day scoring for us –which is highly technical and a focused skill that I cannot do.

Basketball

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Parents and Friends Update.

As 2025 draws to a close our Parents and Friends committee will be moving a motion to dissolve the committee and reform as Family and Community Engagement (FACE). There will be more information coming. The group will be spending the fundraising money on basketball jerseys that can also be worn for netball, new signage for our values – LEARN, LOVE and SERVE and updating artworks around the school. I want to thank this group for their high energy in supporting our school with stalls, raffles, discos and in many other ways.

2025 School Fees Reminder

We extend our sincere thanks to all families for your continued support of Catholic Education through timely school fee payments. Your dedication is genuinely appreciated.School fees should be well and truly on their way to being fully paid for the 2025 school year.  With only 9 payment weeks remaining, we kindly remind families that all school fees are due in full by 30th November 2025. 

If something has changed in your family situation or you are unable to have fees cleared by the due date please reach out for assistance. We may be able to extend the due date for you. If you have any questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact our friendly school office team.

Health Care Cards

If you haven’t submitted your Health Care Card yet, please use the following link to do so:https://cefmsmn.t1cloud.com/T1Default/CiAnywhere/Web/CEFMSMN/Forms/FillOut?formDef=542f8b0a36f27c118b055b26d933c4fe&suite=CES

Spring Holidays at the Wetlands

SPRING FESTIVAL on Sunday 28 September. With markets, food, music, tours and fun stuff for kids. Entry is FREE!

Ponds Scavenger Hunt - look in, on and around our ponds as you complete our scavenger hunt.  Drop your completed sheet at reception and you could be a winner $FREE with Entry.

After Dark Tours - as the sun goes down many nocturnal critters come out. Our expert guide will take us on a torchlight tour of our grounds. Tues 30 Sept & Thurs 2 Oct at 6pm. $7.50 Kids $15 Adults. Buy your tickets online. https://www.wetlands.org.au/upcoming-events

Reptile Encounter - get 'hands on' with nature and learn about our fascinating reptiles, even pat them - if you dare.  Sat, Sun and Wednesdays (during school holidays) at 11am. $5pp + entry.

Wetlands Wednesdays are for Water Science as we explore how wetlands work and the cool ways water works. Experiment with water filtration, what to flush down the toilet, make a boat that floats and discover what underwater in our pond. $Free with Entry

Canoes - Spring weather means its time for families to get out and see the wetlands from the water! Canoe hire is just $30 for 2 hrs, lifejackets included. Enquire at Reception. (Kids 5yrs+ please!)

Bird Feeding-  every day at 10.30am Free with entry.

More Information https://www.wetlands.org.au/upcoming-events 

Sport Coordinators - Melinda Walls & Jess Stefanish-Smith

Jump Rope For Heart 

We had an incredible time on Wednesday afternoon at Jump Rope for Heart!  The students did an incredible job showing off their skipping skills, and it was wonderful to see just how much progress they’ve made throughout the term. Their excitement, confidence, teamwork, and persistence really shone through — well done to everyone who took part!  

Infants Athletics Carnival 

Our Infants’ Athletics Carnival was such a joyful session! Kindergarten and Year 1 students took part in a variety of track and field activities including relays, sprints, hurdles, discus, shot put and javelin, giving their best effort while having so much fun. It was wonderful to see them enjoying themselves, cheering each other on, and building their skills in a supportive and positive environment. 

Many thanks to Year 6 and their teachers who joined their kindergarten buddies. It was so special seeing our Year 6 students encourage and support their buddy and share this experience. Moments like these really highlight the strong sense of community in our school. 

 Basketball Tournament 

Thank you to the families that have registered their child’s interest in representing St Paul’s in basketball. We will organise teams and the Compass event, ready for Week 1, Term 4.  

Please note that Years 5 & 6 will be at camp on the second day of the tournament.  

https://forms.office.com/r/z0MGWwnrUL  to register.  

Hockey Gala Day 

Thank you to the families that have registered their child’s interest! This is a “come and try” day where students will learn the rules and skills of hockey!  

Year 6 families, please note this is the same day as the St Joseph’s orientation day and Rugby 7’s tournament.  

Date 14th November 2025 

https://forms.office.com/r/wwQzzjsQCt to register.  

 Stage 1 League Tag 

Stage 1(Year 1 and 2) have been invited to an NRL League Tag day. This will be held on the 19th November 2025 at Sommerset Park in Thornton.  Please check Compass for the form to register your child’s interest. https://forms.office.com/r/747xk0nVtN 

The game will have 6 players on field at a time and up to 6 players on the bench.  

Swimming Carnival 

We have been made aware of Maitland Council’s announcement on social media about the outdoor pool at Maitland Aquatic centre. Alternate arrangements have been made. The date of the carnival remains the same.  

SwapIt 

Do you have a fussy eater at home?  

Try this SWAP IT tip. For more fussy eating ideas visit: 

www.swapit.net.au/fussyeating 

Primary Coordinator & Gifted Educator Mentor - Mrs Amanda King

Everyday Learning These Holidays

The school holidays are the perfect time for children to relax and recharge, but they also provide plenty of opportunities to keep learning happening in natural, everyday ways. Parents and carers don’t need to run formal lessons, often it’s the small moments that make the biggest difference.

Here are some simple ideas to try at home:

Read Every Day: Encourage your child to enjoy a book, comic, recipe, or even movie subtitles. Reading together or talking about what they’ve read helps build understanding and vocabulary.

Make Maths Practical: Cooking, shopping, board games, or planning a trip are all fun ways to use maths in real life.

Talk and Share: Ask open-ended questions about their interests, current events, or favourite school activities. Conversations help children express themselves and build confidence.

Get Creative: Drawing, writing, building, or crafting supports imagination and problem-solving.Most importantly, enjoy the time together. When children feel supported and curious, learning happens naturally. We look forward to hearing about their holiday adventures when they return next term! 

Becoming a Volunteer at St Paul's

Volunteers play a vital role in supporting the learning and wellbeing of our students. Whether it’s helping in the classroom, assisting with events, or sharing special skills, your time and talents make a real difference. Volunteering is also a wonderful way to connect with our school community and be part of your child’s educational journey. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please follow the link below

https://www.mn.catholic.edu.au/our-community/volunteers/ 

Library - Katrina Howard

End of term brings a big call out for overdue books to be returned please. If these cannot be found payments are due via Qkr! App. Don’t forget to read over the holidays! It is a great opportunity to dive into a family chapter book or listen to an audiobook. The St Paul’s Street library, located near the church, is regularly being topped up with fresh used books.

Library Borrowing Cup 

Congratulations to 4W and 6W on winning the Library Cup this fortnight. It is great to still see some classes with regular borrowers and so many students remembering to return their books.

Premiers Reading Challenge (PRC) 

Congratulations to the following students who have completed the challenge this fortnight-

Alexander KW, Isaiah KW, Jasper KW, Madison 2W, Josef 3M, Ella 4W, Arie 6M and Sara 6M.

The end of term concludes the PRC for 2025! The 16 students from 3M who completed the challenge will be awarded a class party in term 4. Date TBC! Well done and thank you to the 56 students who have participated this year.

Book Club

All Book Club orders for issue 6 have now been sent home. Thank you to those families who continue to buy books through Book Club. The reward points we receive mean we can purchase new resources for our school. Thank you!

Holiday Activities

Lots of fun free events happening at Maitland City Libraries these school holidays. Including workshops with illustrators Jenni Goodman and Sami Bayly, Hindi Storytime and a reptile show! Click on the link to find out more and secure your tickets. Upcoming events | Maitland Library

School holiday events also happening at Maitland Art Gallery including recycled monster art and still life drawing art classes. Some events are free others require paid tickets. Calendar • MRAG

Religious Coordinator - Mr Robert Temesvary

Formation – Year 4

Last week, our Year 4 students participated in a truly meaningful Formation Day centred around our school value of 'serve'. The day was filled with rich discussions and engaging activities that encouraged students to reflect on their personal gifts and explore how they can use these to serve others in their families, classrooms, and wider community.

It was inspiring to witness the students’ thoughtful contributions and growing awareness of the unique ways they can make a difference. From creative group work to quiet moments of reflection, the spirit of service was alive throughout the day.

A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful Formation team for their ongoing support and leadership. A special thanks to Sister Joseph and Mrs Wilson whose presence and guidance helped shape the day into something truly special. We also extend our gratitude to Mrs Purdon, who helped to organise a delicious sausage sizzle and Mrs Marr for her amazing support of the students.

An introduction to Catholicism

The Catholic Council of Schools Parents NSW/ACT has developed a guide, ‘Our Catholic Faith.’ This guide is intended for parents and carers and is an introduction to Catholicism, with easy-to-understand explanations of Catholic beliefs and traditions. We will be using this in our enrolment packs, but as this is a ‘new’ resource, I am sharing this with our existing school community for you to access if you wish!

Sacraments of Initiation

A reminder that next year’s program will start mid-Term 4. If your child is ready to begin their Sacramental journey, or if you’d simply like to learn more, please feel free to reach out to me directly. I’m proud to be part of the Sacramental team for the Chisholm region on a parishioner level and am happy to support you and your children in this journey. Now is a great time to express your interest so please reach out for any information.

End of Term 3

As we come to the close of another busy and rewarding term, I want to take a moment to thank all our families for your continued support and partnership in your children’s learning journey. It has been a term filled with growth, achievement, and community spirit.

As we head into the holiday break, I wish each of you a restful and blessed time with loved ones. May the holidays bring peace, joy, and renewal to your homes. We look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed and ready for the new term ahead.

Take care and enjoy the break!

GOSPEL REFLECTION

TWENTY-SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR C

Luke 16:19-31

Parable of the rich man and Lazarus.

Student Awards - Week 8 & 9

Calendar Dates - Term 4 Week 1 & Week 2

Acting Assistant Principal - Ms Sharna Taranto

PB4L (Positive Behaviours for Learning)

This fortnight, our PB4Lfocus is Be Honest — a value that underpins strong relationships, the SEL competency of self-awareness, and personal growth.

This week each morning at assembly and in class, we have been highlighting with the students why honesty matters. Honesty isn’t just about telling the truth- it’s about being true to ourselves. When children learn to reflect honestly on their actions, they begin to understand their choices, take responsibility, and grow from their experiences. This kind of self-reflection is a powerful tool for emotional development and resilience.

Being honest also builds trust.

Home Link Activity: “Truth Tree” Create a simple “Truth Tree” together at home.

• Draw or cut out a tree shape and place it somewhere visible.
• Each day, invite your child to add a leaf (paper cut-out) with a moment they were honest — even if it was hard.
• Celebrate these moments together and talk about how honesty made them feel.

Thank you for supporting us in reenforcing this important value at home. Together, we help our children grow into thoughtful, trustworthy individuals.

Antibullying

At times it can be difficult for our students to differentiate between a situation where someone is unkind or if in fact, there is bullying behaviour involved. The image below from the Kids Helpline website explains the difference using simple language and images.

You may also find the link below- focusing on the strategy of humour, useful in supporting discussions with your child/ren.

https://youtu.be/hZqx0TewVP4

Staffing

We welcome back to St Paul’s Miss Teagan Ross for Term 4. Teagan has been appointed as 4M teacher, 4 days per week, working alongside Mrs Erin Tobin who will teach 1 day per week. The students are already familiar with Miss Ross who has previously worked with us as Learning Support Teacher as well as working casually at the school.

Mr Jacob Adams will continue in his full time position for the remainder of the year, covering the roles of; ICT RFF, PE and 5M class teacher.

I invite you to join me in welcoming Mrs Brooke Nelson to St Paul’s. Brooke will be joining the team in the Beyond The Gates (BTG) caseworker role. The BTG program works alongside the schools’ wellbeing, learning support, and counselling teams to support families in need through case management or case coordination.

Uniforms

A reminder that Term 4 sees all students wearing full summer uniform for the remainder of the year. If you are looking for secondhand options, please stop by our uniform shop and see Christa.

I ask for the support of families in reminding older students of the correct uniform options. Lately, we are seeing some mixing and matching of uniforms. It is important that we uphold the same uniform standards for all students. Students who repeatedly wear incorrect uniform (including jewelry and nail polish) will receive a consequence of time out. I thank you for your continued support in this.

Kindergarten Transitions

This week concludes the third session of our Kindergarten 2026 transition sessions. These sessions are an invaluable step in our enrolment process. Kindergarten transition sessions help our incoming students to feel confident and excited about starting primary school.

It was wonderful to connect with all of our new families and provide the opportunity for them to connect with the school community. A huge thank you to Mrs Cooper and Mrs Campbell for their organisation of these sessions along with our school supports- Mrs Wilson (ATSI), Mrs Warby (EALD) & Mrs Collingwood (LST)!

End of Term

It has been a very busy term, enriched with learning across a spectrum of areas; faith, academics, social and emotional development and sport.

I would like to thank our dedicated teachers who have worked tirelessly to support all students in their care. It brings me great joy to witness the daily interactions between staff and students. Moments filled with genuine connection and encounter, where the face of God is reflected in every child.

As we enter into the holiday period, I wish all staff, students and families a safe, restful and rejuvenating break. We look forward to seeing everyone back in Term 4!

2M Assembly

2025 School Fees Reminder

A heartfelt thank you to all our families who continue to support Catholic Education by keeping up with their school fee payments. Your commitment is truly appreciated.

With just 11 payment weeks left, we kindly remind families to ensure all fees are paid in full by 30th November 2025. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly school office team.

Health Care Cards

If you haven’t yet submitted your Health Care Card, please use the link below to do so:

https://cefmsmn.t1cloud.com/T1Default/CiAnywhere/Web/CEFMSMN/Forms/FillOut?formDef=542f8b0a36f27c118b055b26d933c4fe&suite=CES

Financial Support

We understand that some families may be going through challenging times. If you're experiencing financial difficulties, we encourage you to reach out to the school to arrange a private and confidential conversation. We're here to support you.

Sport Coordinators - Jess Stefanish-Smith & Melinda Walls

Hockey

In Term 4, Friday 14th November, there is a combined stage 2 and stage 3 Hockey Gala Day. This is an opportunity to promote the sport and allow children to have a go, therefore they do not have to be registered players. All gear (except mouthguard which are compulsory) is provided. 
Plan for the day:

 - Drills - 4 stations, dibbling, passing & receiving, tackling and shooting

 - Snack Break and time to organise teams

 - Games - 16 teams 8 aside (10 per team with 2 subs) playing ¼ field = 4 games at once 10-15min games no halftime 

Equipment: Mouthguards compulsory - shin guards and sticks provided. 
If your child would be interested in participating in the hockey gala day, please keep your eye out for the gala day form that will be sent out next week.

Stage 3 Soccer Gala Day

Last Thursday, our Stage 3 students took part in an exciting Soccer Gala Day held at Speers Point. The event was a fantastic opportunity for students to showcase their skills, teamwork, and love for the game. Throughout the day, they demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship, resilience, and school spirit. We are incredibly proud of their efforts and the way they represented our school with enthusiasm and respect. Well done to all involved!

Netball NSW Schools Cup Competitive Team

Stay tuned for the date in the next newsletter as we are at the Maitland Netball courts competing today!

NSW Touch Football Clinics

On Thursday this week, Kindy Year 1, 2 and 3 were to receive their clinic. Unfortunately, this was postponed due to the weather. This has been rescheduled to Monday, 13 October. Students listed above are asked to wear their uniforms on this day. A reminder will be shared on Compass. 

On Monday 22 September year 4, 5 and 6 are asked to wear their sports uniform for the day as they will be receiving their clinic on this day.

Sporting Schools gymnastics

All classes have now completed 2 weeks of basic gymnastics skills. Students have been working on balance, rolling, positioning, and tucking. It has been wonderful to observe how much the students are enjoying their activities and approaching each week with enthusiasm.

Basketball NSW Schools Tournament

We are thrilled to announce that we have entered a boy and a girls basketball team in the Basketball NSW schools tournament. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to showcase their skills, teamwork, and school spirit.

Students who are 8 years or older are now invited to nominate themselves to participate. Students who currently play basketball will be given first preference.

The tournament will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday of Week 2, Term 4 (21^st & 22^nd October) at Maitland Basketball Stadium.

Year 5 and 6 students need to be aware that they go away on camp on the second day of this tournament.

If your child is interested in playing in the team, please contact Mrs Stefanish-Smith at j.stefanish-smith@mn.catholic.edu.au

Swap It

Packing a healthy lunchbox doesn't have to be complicated! Find more easy ideas on healthy lunchboxes: www.swapit.net.au/packing-an-everyday-lunchbox

Jump Rope for Heart

Fundraising information for Jump Rope for Heart went home earlier this week. Fundraising is not compulsory but encouraged for those who can. Skipping is a wonderful way to assist our cardiovascular health and raise awareness for the Heart Foundation.