St Paul's Bulletin Term 3 Week 7 2025

Principal's Message

WHAT MAKES A DAD 
"God took the strength of a mountain, 
The majesty of a tree, 
The warmth of a summer sun, 
The calm of a quiet sea, 
The generous soul of nature, 
The comforting arm of night, 
The wisdom of the ages, 
The power of Eagle's flight, 
The joy of a morning in spring, 
The faith of a mustard seed, 
The patience of eternity, 
The depth of a family need, 
Then God combined these qualities, 
When there was nothing more to add, 
He knew his masterpiece was complete, 
And so he called it....Dad" 

                                                                                                  Author Unknown 

Dear Parents and Carers,  

This Sunday we celebrate the gift of fathers on Father’s Day. Being a parent is a hard task, but a most rewarding one. Those of us who are fathers or father figures do the best we can in our role, modelling ourselves on our own father figures if appropriate, and other good men that we know. 

As a father figure, you may think about what the best gift is you can give to a child. I believe that the gift of your time is the best gift you can give to children. When they are adults, they may not remember a toy that you gave them, but hopefully they remember an activity you shared together, or a holiday together, or just spending time reading or playing a board game. 

How good was our school concert, Other Worlds, yesterday! The children did an amazing job! Many thanks to Mrs Tantos, Mrs Davison, Mrs Moulder and all the teachers for the many hours of preparation to get to yesterday’s performance. We are very proud of the children. Thank you to all our parents who help preparing costumes and for coming to enjoy the show! 

As you know St Paul’s does not have traditional homework, other than projects in Years 5 & 6. Our school policy is that we encourage Home Activities, which include home reading, sporting and cultural activities, helping in the home and playing. We see home reading as being imperative to a child being a successful reader and learner. We send home readers, or similar, in the early years. In the older grades we expect children to be reading novels or other books that interest them. As a guide, children should be reading for at least 15-20 minutes every day. If your child is not reading at home every day, we encourage you to start supporting this important skill immediately. If they are a reluctant reader, then parents should read to their child every day. There is no age limit on reading to your child. Do it as long as your child enjoys it. If you have any questions regarding reading, please contact your child's teacher. 

As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, each year our school identifies a list of priorities. These priorities are carefully considered to ensure St Paul's is using its resources wisely and to best support student learning, wellbeing and school operations. Examples of school expenditure priority areas that have made a significant impact in our school community in recent years include the installation of smart interactive screens in each classroom to support contemporary learning; purchase of new decodable readers in K-2 to support reading instruction, and the introduction of Zones of Regulation to support student wellbeing and establishing a yarning circle and native garden to foster greater cultural understanding and connection amongst the entire school community. 

As valued partners in our school community, I would like to invite you to complete a short survey, which will inform how our school will work towards its 2026 priorities. The survey also provides an opportunity for you to have your say on aspects of our school you think should be prioritised to ensure it operates at a high standard now, and into the future. Please click here to complete the survey. I thank you in advance for completing this survey. Your feedback will provide valued insights into the wants and needs of our school community and strengthen decision-making. 

You may have noticed builders working in Nangara and the area behind Year 1, 1/2 and 5. Thanks to your building levy and the support of the Catholic Schools, timber decks are built outside these classrooms. These will provide wonderful ‘break out’ spaces for those classes. The work should be finished in time for the beginning of next term. 

Our first Kinder Yaama Day is next week! On this day the children will have activities in the Kinder classrooms while the parents will spend time with Mrs Jessica Moulder, who will talk about how to support your child's numeracy development. Even if you don’t have a child coming in Kinder next year, you are most welcome to come to learn more about numeracy development in children.  If you know of a family looking to enrol in Kinder next year, please let them know that enrolments are still open. Can’t wait to have our newest enrolments at school! 

In staffing news, I can announce that Mrs Elise Tantos has commenced her maternity leave as she and husband Nic await the birth of their first child. We wish them all the best. For the rest of the term, music will be taught by Mrs Lucy Warner and then in term 4 Miss Sarah Bernasconi will step into the role. We thank them both as they take on this important role of developing the musical skills of our children. 

With every blessing, 

Greg Cumming 

Principal 

Important Dates

2025 School Dates 

Assistant Principal's Message

SchoolTV - Celebrating Father's Day

For many years now, the role of fathers has changed and evolved. During the industrial revolution, fathers were often considered detached and distant due to working long hours in factories. However, today things have changed dramatically with many dads being celebrated for being sensitive, caring and more hands-on.

Recent studies have shown that children benefit greatly from having fathers who are present and interacting in everyday activities. This has transformed the understanding of how fathers shape children’s lives from the start, challenging conventional ideas of parenthood and gender.

Research also suggests that fathers influence their sons and daughters in different ways, which is especially true during their transition to adolescence. Engaging in regular physical activities can play a key role in influencing children to learn self-control, face challenges, regulate emotions and take manageable risks.

In this Special Report, fathers will learn about the positive impact they can have on their child’s mental health and wellbeing, whilst also ensuring they indulge in a little self-care.

Father's Day Volunteers

A heartfelt thank you to all the parents and carers who generously gave their time this week to help make our Father’s Day celebrations such a success. Your support, enthusiasm, and willingness to lend are truly appreciated. 

It is always wonderful to see our school community come together. When parents are partners in learning and celebration, great things happen!

Jessica Moulder

Assistant Principal 

Catholic Culture at St Paul's

Vinnies Winter Appeal 2025 - Milo Mornings! 

Thank you for your Support!

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed our Winter Appeal Milo Mornings! Your support has been a powerful expression of our mission in action: living out our call to serve with compassion. We’re proud to share that all funds raised will go directly to supporting the work of our local St Vincent de Paul chapter, helping those in need right here in our community. Your support brings warmth, comfort, and hope to those who were doing it tough this winter. 

Together, we’ve shown what it means to be a community of faith, hope, and action. Thank you for making a difference.

Our Tiny Forest Turns One!
We’re celebrating one year of growth, learning, and wonder in our Tiny Forest! From curious observations to quiet moments of reflection, this special space has become a living classroom and a symbol of our care for creation. 

To mark the occasion, students are invited to wear green on Friday 19 September and bring a gold coin donation. All funds raised will go to the Bishops’ Flood Appeal, supporting communities affected by recent flooding.

Let’s come together in gratitude, solidarity, and action, celebrating the life of our forest and extending care to those in need.

Year 5 Pilot - New Religious Education Curriculum

We’ve begun our Year 5 Pilot in RE. We are sharing a helpful question and answer guide designed to support learning at home. This resource encourages families to ask and answer meaningful questions, helping students reflect, explain, and deepen their understanding beyond the classroom.

It’s been a positive step in strengthening the partnership between home and school, and we’re grateful for the thoughtful engagement from our parent community.

Stage 3 Religious Literacy

Between musical rehearsals and performances, our Year 6 students showed remarkable focus and maturity as they completed the Year 6 Religious Literacy Assessment. Their application and dedication were truly noteworthy, reflecting a deep respect for their learning and a growing understanding of their faith.

This assessment is a key part of our commitment to nurturing faith, knowledge, and understanding in every learner. It’s not about comparison, but about recognising where each student is on their journey - developing the ability to articulate Catholic beliefs, think critically in religious contexts, and live out their faith in everyday actions.

Even for those who may not identify with a particular faith, this experience fosters curiosity, respect, and engagement with diverse religious traditions, enriching their worldview and sense of community.

We are incredibly proud of our Year 6 students for embracing this opportunity with such maturity and thoughtfulness. Well done!

Socktober - We're kicking goals for good in 2025!

We're participating in Socktober for Mission Month to make a difference for children in need in Zambia. This year, we are raising funds to help a community overcome a severe hunger crisis by creating a vital Maize Mill. Thank you for supporting our team as we strive to make a difference!

You can donate now via the link below.

Stay tuned for our fun filled Socktober activities 'kicking off' in Term 4!

Early Bird Alert – Mission Mondays Are Coming! 
Our amazing Mini Vinnies team has a cool plan for Term 4! 

They’ll be selling Zooper Doopers every Monday at lunchtime for just $1 each. All money raised will go directly to support the vital work of Catholic Missions, helping communities in need around the world. 

This is a fun and refreshing way to live out our mission of solidarity, showing that even small acts can make a big difference. So, bring your gold coin and your generous spirit!

Creative Arts News

Other Worlds: That's A Wrap!

There’s nothing quite like the bittersweet feeling that follows the final curtain of a school production. After all the preparation, rehearsals, and striving for perfection… it’s suddenly over. But what remains is the pride, joy, and sense of community that made it all possible.

The recent show was a huge success, and that’s thanks to the incredible team effort from our St Paul’s community!

A heartfelt thank you to:

• Elise Tantos, for her outstanding organisation of the ASPIRE team and for guiding the writing and creation of the production.
• Mary Davison, whose technical support ensured everything ran smoothly behind the scenes.
• Our wonderful parents, who went above and beyond to organise costumes and support their children.
• A special shout-out to Sr Pat, whose creativity and care brought the Kinder costumes to life so beautifully.
• Our amazing students, whose enthusiasm, energy and talent lit up the stage and brought each performance to life.
• And to our dedicated staff, who gave their time, creativity and care to make each class’s performance truly magical.

Your effort, time, and commitment made this production truly shine. What a team we have at St Paul’s! These kids are so lucky to be surrounded by such a caring and passionate community.

Thank you all for making magic happen on and off the stage!

Calling all Rock n’ Rollers!! Learn Guitar at school with Ricky’s Music Tuition

Open to Years K to 6, students will learn everything from Billy Eilish to Post Malone, to Imagine Dragons, to AC/DC. Students will learn in small groups at school, and have the opportunity to perform as part of an ensemble, enjoying the excitement and experience of being a real musician with skills that will last a lifetime. If you are interested in your child being involved, please email enrol@rickysmusictuition.com.au

Aboriginal Education

2025 NAIDOC Mural News

We are excited to share that the mural “Next Generation” at St Paul’s has now been completed! Last Wednesday and Thursday, students sat in the sunshine and created journey stones decorated with Aboriginal signs and symbols using Posca paint pens. Everyone who joined in also added a few special dots to the wall, helping to place the final touches on our mural. A heartfelt thank you goes to Alanna and the team from Bunnings Bennetts Green for joining us at one of our sessions. Their generosity in donating the resources and paint made this project possible, and we are so grateful for their support in helping our students create something truly special for our school community.

This project celebrates children not only as the artists of today, but as guides of their own culture’s tomorrow carrying forward stories, traditions, and the spiritual connections that shape community identity. Their involvement ensures that culture continues to live and evolve through their generation.

Equally integral to the mural’s meaning are the Aboriginal Elders. As custodians of knowledge, they are guardians of ceremony, storytelling, and tradition ensuring cultural continuity across generations. Elders bring wisdom, language, and ceremony to life mentoring young people and grounding the mural in shared heritage and respect for Country. 

Lastly, the footprints incorporated into the design bridge our religious connections to the pilgrims’ footsteps symbolising that our journey of faith follows a path walked by those before us. In spiritual tradition, footprints often represent guidance, presence, and connection to a lineage of beliefs. 

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Minimbah Local AECG News

On Tuesday 26th August, St Paul’s Primary proudly hosted the Local Minimbah AECG General Meeting, which was a great success. Representatives from both Catholic Schools and Department of Education schools within the Minimbah AECG footprint came together for the gathering. It was wonderful to also see members of our school community joining in, making the evening a truly collaborative occasion.

The meeting provided a valuable opportunity for parents, carers, Elders, and community members both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal to share their voices and contribute to meaningful discussions about Aboriginal education. Together, we celebrated the strength of community partnership and worked towards shaping positive outcomes for all students in a culturally inclusive and supportive environment.

Sports News

Lakes Region Netball Gala Day

Next Thursday, 11th September, students in Years 4 to 6 will be participating in the Lakes Region Netball Gala Day, held at the Charlestown Netball Courts. We extend our sincere thanks to the parents who have kindly volunteered to assist with team supervision on the day. Relevant information has been shared via email with those volunteers.

We are excited to have 110 students representing our school across 14 teams. If you have not yet provided consent for your child to attend, we kindly ask that you do so as soon as possible to allow finalisation of team arrangements.

We look forward to a fantastic day filled with teamwork, sportsmanship, and fun!

Summer Sports Trials- Pathways Program- Tennis, Basketball, Cricket

The Summer Sports Regional Trials are scheduled to be conducted early next term for Tennis, Basketball and Cricket. These trials are for students in Years 4 and 5 currently (as these sports go over to next year). The process involves students trialling at several levels (school, region, Diocese, Polding) in an attempt to be selected in Polding (Northern NSW Catholic School) representative teams which attend PSSA State Carnivals. 

If interested and you consider your child to have exceptional talent in one of the above sports, you may nominate your child for the trials via a written nomination form. Important information includes present club, outstanding achievements and current representative honours. Your child must be currently registered for their chosen sport. Please ask your child to see Mrs Edwards if they require a form or email me at abbey-jane.edwards@mn.catholic.edu.au

Completed forms are due to me by next Friday 12th September.

PLEASE NOTE: These are not gala days- this is a pathways program for students with representative experience. We may need to hold a school level trial prior to the Regional trials if we receive a certain amount of nominations. 

Touch Football Gala Days

The washed-out Touch Football Gala Days have been rescheduled for students in Years 3-6. These new dates have been updated in the Compass Events. The new dates are as follows:

Stage 2 (Years 3 and 4) Tuesday 21st October (Term 4 Week 2)

Stage 3 (Years 5 and 6) Wednesday 29th October (Term 4 Week 3)

I will be in touch soon with parents who had previously indicated they could assist with a team on the day to see if you are still available. If you're unsure if your child was attending, please check Compass Events. 

Polding Athletics

Next Friday, Maeva Clifford, Abby Rice, and Logan Svensk will be representing us at the Polding Athletics Carnival. Best of luck to our amazing athletes — we’re cheering you on all the way!

Sports Rep Shout-Out 

Congratulations to Issy Roberts who has been selected in the Lakeside’s U12 development squad for netball, and also for the U11 Hunter Miners Oz Tag team. What a wonderful achievement! Well done, Issy!

Library News

Please remember to return our 'Boomerang Bags' which have been kindly donated to our Library. The children can use them if  they forget to bring along their own bags on Library day.

Gifted and High Potential Learning

BLOG: Seeing the World Like Leonardo, Einstein, and Aristotle – Three Ways to Nurture Genius Thinking in Your Child

https://www.mn.catholic.edu.au/news/seeing-the-world-like-leonardo-einstein-and-aristotle/

Parent News

Year 6 Graduation and End of Year Events 

St Paul's School based Year 6 Graduation will take place on Tuesday, 16th December, 6 pm-7:30 pm.

Year 6 Beach Day is Thursday, 11th December. 

Year 6 Clap Out Tuesday 16th December, 2:15 pm.

 More details to come closer to the date. 

Volunteering at St Paul's

Please see the below link if you would like to register to volunteer at St Paul’s. Our school is always in need of volunteers for many school activities. We will let you know once we receive your clearance from your registration; this must be received before you volunteer. 

Upcoming information sessions and webinars for parents and carers

Parents and carers are the most important educators in their child’s life. As well as partnering directly with our school to support your child’s learning and wellbeing, there are a range of webinars and information sessions provided each month by reputable providers specifically for parents and carers- free of charge. To view a list of upcoming webinars and information sessions that may be of interest to you, click the link below at any time. The list will be updated weekly throughout the school term, so be sure to check the page regularly.

www.mn.catholic.edu.au/our-community/supporting-parents-and-carers/upcoming-parent-and-carer-information-sessions/

Another useful resource for parents and carers to access timely information on a range of topics including cyber safety, mental health, positive parenting, school survival, diversity and inclusion and healthy bodies is via School TV. Our school invested in this online platform so that our parents and carers can conveniently access reliable information from credible sources all in one place - when you need it most - not just at a specified webinar time.  It includes videos, fact sheets and podcasts all delivered by leading psychologists and experts.

To access our school’s SchoolTV site visit https://gatesheadsp.catholic.schooltv.me/ 

Office Messages

IMPORTANT - School Fees

We would like to kindly remind all families that fee payments should have started now, as per the school’s payment schedule. For families who have already started making payments, we sincerely thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. Your continued support is deeply appreciated.

For those who have not yet started payments, we kindly ask that you start making regular payments moving forward. The Catholic Schools Office requires a steady payment schedule, and timely payments are essential for maintaining the smooth running of the school.

If you have any questions or need assistance with the payment process, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

Thank you once again for your support.

Volunteering
Throughout the year, we invite parents/carers to volunteer at the school. To volunteer, you must complete the volunteer's induction. 

Complaints, Resolution and Feedback

St Paul’s Primary School, The Catholic Schools Office (CSO) and Schools in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle are committed to providing a positive, safe environment for all staff and students. There are occasions, however, when members of our schools and wider community are concerned about something happening at a school that appears to be unsatisfactory or unreasonable.

If you have a complaint, please follow this procedure. 

Parish News

Children’s Liturgy is held every Sunday at 9:30am during Holy Mass. We have a beautiful, dedicated room at St Paul’s Gateshead where we hear and discuss the Gospel each week, working our way through the Liturgical Calendar.

There’s always lots of friendship and fun activities.

Safeguarding is our highest priority. Children’s Liturgy will only go ahead if there are two volunteers with current Working With Children Checks.

All are welcome! We look forward to meeting some new friends!

Jacqui Wilson (school mum at St Paul’s Primary) and the Children’s Liturgy Team.