With this newsletter marking the (almost) end of Week 6, it is difficult to believe that we are so close to the end of the term, with only 20 school days remaining until the holiday break.

It has been wonderful to see the children working hard and delving deeply into their class tasks, discovering new concepts and ideas and consolidating them with follow up activities. It is also lovely to see everyone enjoying and sharing our beautiful playground.

We are all so proud of all of the students at OLV.

A COVID update from the CSO Director

‘NSW Health has updated its advice to schools across NSW/ACT to ensure that students and staff do not attend school if they are unwell. Further, and this is a clear elevation of protocols, students absent or sent home due to flu-like symptoms (such as coughing, sore throat, fatigue and shortness of breath) need to be tested. Evidence of a negative result should be provided prior to allowing students and staff to return to school. This measure is ensuring we maintain a stringent and measured approach across all of our schools to maintain the health of students and staff.’
Gerard Mowbray.
Director of Catholic Schools.

Kinder 2021 interviews

Over the last two weeks, I have had the great honour and privilege to meet and interview our 2021 Kindergarten students. During the interviews, some by Zoom, some by phone and others face to face, we talked about things they like, favourite colours, we did some counting and those who came in to school drew a picture of their family. We also discussed the buddy system and how their big buddies will help support each new Kindy during their first few weeks of ‘big school’.

Places are still available, so if you know someone with a child entering Kindergarten in 2021, please let them know about our beautiful school.

National Child Protection Week
This year, National Child Protection Week occurs across Australia from 6–12 September.

This is the 30th year celebration with the theme “Putting Children First”. In order to thrive, children need to be loved, feel safe, have access to the essentials such as food, shelter, medical and mental health. Putting children first means prioritising their safety, welfare and wellbeing.

The COVID-19 pandemic means there is added pressure on families and communities so more than ever, we all need to play our part in protecting children.

We can all play a part by creating stronger, happier communities. This can be achieved by checking in and helping your neighbours and friends, being a good role model, supporting and being kind to parents rather than judging or being competitive and speaking up if you see something that is unsafe.

It is important that we listen to, and value, what children have to say. Where possible, include their voices in decision making and be advocates for their best interest.

The Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle has an abiding commitment to promote the safety, welfare and wellbeing of children. The Office of Safeguarding (OoSG) is the structural expression of the Diocese’s commitment to demonstrate the highest standards of recognising and upholding the dignity and rights of all children.

Below are links to some resources you may wish to view.

https://padlet.com/OfficeofSafeguarding/K_2

https://padlet.com/officeofsafeguardingmn/years3_6

https://padlet.com/officeofsafeguardingmn/parents

Liturgies

This week we did not have a liturgy due to the Pupil Free Day. Next week we will be lead in our liturgy by Year 3. It will be shared on Facebook for you all to see.

Book Week

This year, due to Covid 19, Book Week has been moved to October. The theme this year is 'Curious Creatures, Wild Minds'. OLV will celebrate Book Week on Friday 23 October with an amended parade and some shared reading activities in the afternoon. Stay tuned for more information in future newsletters.

Newcastle Permanent Maths Comp

On Friday 21 August, Years 5 and 6, participated in this competition, as we do every year.  There were lots of ‘crinkly foreheads’ as they worked through 35 questions within the 45 minute timeframe. We look forward to receiving the results.

Update on Mr V

Mr V continues to be on the mend and we wish him a speedy recovery.