2024 - Term 2, Week 6

Greetings from the beautiful and picturesque Camino de Santiago trail!

I miss seeing your smiling faces and hearing about your daily adventures, but I carry your spirit with me on this trail. Know that even from Spain, I am cheering you on and looking forward to sharing stories when I return.

I am stepping out of my comfort zone and i want you to as well! Remember to post your stories of triumphs and challenges into the box in the front office and I look forward to reading them all when I return.

Buen Camino!

Mrs Budd

The last few weeks at Emmaus have been nothing short of bustling and vibrant, reflecting the energetic spirit of our community. Opportunities abound for our students, with a wide array of lunchtime clubs sparking joy and creativity. From dancing and bracelet making to Minecraft sessions, there's something for everyone. As we embrace the first week of Winter, there's a wonderful buzz around the school, filled with excitement and anticipation for the activities and adventures ahead. Emmaus continues to be a place where curiosity thrives, and every student finds a way to shine.

Science of Reading Parent Workshops
Our Early Years Pedagogical Coach, Kieren Gulpers, ran two Science of Reading parent workshops. These sessions covered explicit instruction methods and the implementation of the Orton-Gillingham (OG) approach in our classrooms. The emphasis is on the importance of explicit instruction in phonics, decoding, and other foundational reading skills and is designed to help students develop the language processes needed for reading and writing. Thank you to the families who attended and learned how they can support their child's reading journey at home, as well as understand the techniques our teachers are using to enhance literacy.

Exciting Excursions
We have had a fantastic lineup of excursions planned to enrich our students' learning experiences! Reception students enjoyed a delightful excursion inspired by the beloved character Grug. Meanwhile, our Year 2 students explored marine life at the Marine Discovery Centre, broadening their understanding of the natural world. These excursions provided hands-on learning opportunities that were both fun and educational. Our Reception, Year 1, and Year 2 students will dive into swimming lessons coming up in Week 8, which will foster physical skills and water safety.

School-Wide Behaviour Curriculum
Following our whole school professional development on Bill Hansberry’s behaviour curriculum, we have implemented this throughout our school. This approach focuses on explicitly teaching rules and routines whilst maintaining high expectations for all students, from Reception to Year 6. Consistency and persistence are key to fostering a positive and productive learning environment. As educational psychologist Lee Canter said, "Consistent routines reduce cognitive load, allowing students to focus on learning." By setting clear expectations and reinforcing them consistently, we aim to create a supportive atmosphere where every student can thrive.

Kate Thompson

Acting Principal

MINI VINNIES WINTER SLEEPOUT

To raise awareness of the issue of homeless people in our community our Mini Vinnie’s Emmaus team are having a Winter Sleep-Out in the Emmaus Hall. We will be joining with the Antonio Mini Vinnies Social Justice team. Together, our teams will spend the night of Friday, 21st June, in the hall, "sleeping rough" to better understand and empathise with the challenges faced by homeless individuals during the winter months.

BAPTISM   

God calls each of us to a closer relationship with God where we can gain clarity, fulfillment and true happiness. It can be hard to hear this call and there is certainly enough noise to distract us. But when the time is right, something opens us to a deeper understanding and we are transformed. May we each take time to listen more closely to God’s call. What awesome things has God got planned for you?  
There have been a number of parents and families asking about Baptism in the parish and seeking baptism for their children. The parish is certainly here to support families on this very important stage on their faith journey. If there are any other families interested in baptism, please contact the parish office on 8326 1555 or visit the website: http://www.morphettvalecatholic.com/ . I may also be able to answer any of your questions.  

RCIA (RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION FOR ADULTS)  
Adults who are interested in Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion prepare and celebrate through the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA.) In the Morphett Vale Catholic Community, the program begins in the second half of the year and the sacrament is celebrated on Easter Saturday the following year. If anyone is interested or just wants to find out more about the program, please contact the parish office on 8326 1555 or visit the website: http://www.morphettvalecatholic.com/ . I may also be able to answer any of your questions.  
 
Justine Raponi 
Acting APRIM (Assistant Principal –Religious Identity and Mission)   
Jraponi@emmaus.catholic.edu.au

Reminder that School Fees should now be paid in full unless your have a Direct Debit in place or a Payment Plan organised.

If you haven’t set this up already you will be receiving communication to advise that this must be paid as a matter of urgency as we are now half way through Term 2.

Our School Board Policy is for fees to be paid in full at the beginning of the year, or a Direct Debit is to be set up for regular payments which will pay your account in full by 31st December.

Please contact Vickie Richardson to set up other arrangements if needed.

We understand some families have financial difficulties and we are here to assist families but we do need communication from you so we can understand your individual situation. Please make an appointment with Vickie Richardson and all information is kept completely confidential.

If no contact is made with us after contacting you by way of a phone call or letter, unfortunately we have no alternative to put your account with our CEO Debt Management in line with our guidelines for payment of fees.

Thank you

A reminder to OSHC families that fees are due to be paid in full at the end of each fortnight. 

OSHC statements are generated fortnightly and notifications are emailed to families with a link to your Fullybooked accounts where you can view your latest statement. If you do not receive a notification, it is still your responsibility to check your account to view your latest statement.

Please ensure you stay on top of your OSHC payments as accounts not paid in full may be suspended and OSHC bookings may be cancelled.

Payment can be made via QKR! or via direct deposit BSB 085005 A/C 456083799.

We thank you for your ongoing support in keeping our OSHC service running.

Meet Lois Watson!

Main instrument: Piano, and other keyboard instruments such as harpsichord and organ (even a pipe organ!).

When did you start learning?  According to my Mum, I was 9 years old when I started piano lessons.

Do you play other instruments? I learned the clarinet at high school so I could play in the band and orchestra. I continued with clarinet lessons while at university, but eventually ran out of puff (that’s a music joke!).

How long have you been teaching for?  I have been teaching at Emmaus since (wait for it…) 1998! Before this I occasionally taught at other schools, but worked mainly as a private teacher (which I don’t do now).

What is the best part of teaching an instrument? There is nothing better than finding the ‘spark’ in a student, so that they learn to love playing, listening and enjoying music. Each student has their own way of learning, and it is wonderful to work with them to find that path.
 
Apart from teaching, what else do you do in the Adelaide music scene (eg bands/choirs etc)?  I used to do a lot of accompanying (choirs, orchestras, ballet classes, instrumentalists) but now I have just one choir to accompany. I also used to do concerts as a soloist, but I really don’t enjoy being the main focus (even I get nervous at performing) so now much prefer being the background musician.

Favourite music experience (either as a musician or as an audience member)? I love going to orchestra concerts, especially if there is a big orchestra with plenty for them all to do. I also love to hear a pipe organ in a cathedral with plenty of echo. Sometimes you can have a concert with pipe organ and orchestra, and that’s really something.

Favourite musical style? I love classical music, particularly English composers (you may not have heard of any of them - try Tallis, Bennett, Purcell, Vaughn Williams, Walton), but also most musical styles of the early 20th century. I listen to lots of different music with no particular top favourite.

Meet Wynn Hearne!

Main instrument: Drums
 
How long have you been playing for? 
25 years

Do you play other instruments? 
Percussion, bass, piano, vocals.

How long have you been teaching for? 
5 years

What is the best part of teaching an instrument?
Seeing the students' progression over time is great, week to week, and year to year!
 
Apart from teaching, what else do you do in the Adelaide music scene (eg bands/choirs etc)?
I have played and recorded in about 15 different bands over the years, as well as playing in the symphony and wind orchestras at the Elder Conservatorium of Music. I have really enjoyed working with friends to facilitate music festivals and gigs. 

Favourite music experience (either as a musician or as an audience member)?
When I got to support Gang of Four at the Lion Arts Centre in 2019, and when I got to play at Womadelaide in 2018! 

Favourite band/singer/soloist and why? 
All my friends in Adelaide and Australia who I've had the privilege of playing with and/or seeing their musical journey.

Favourite musical style?
Anything that makes me want to play more music!

Emmaus Catholic School students selected in the 2024 SA Refugee Week Youth Poster Awards! 

At Emmaus, we strive to foster inclusivity, enhance diversity, and promote respect for all individuals which is why we offered students from years 4 to 6 to create a poster for the 2024 SA Refugee Week Youth Poster Exhibition. 

We cannot be prouder of the students who utilised the opportunity to celebrate multiculturalism, human rights, cultural diversity, anti-racism, and raise awareness regarding the welcoming of refugees into Australia which is why this Friday the 7th of June students will be awarded a certificate of participation in the assembly as they deserve to be celebrated for their exceptional work. 

Excitingly, we are in the works of arranging an excursion to the exhibition on Friday the 21st of June for the students who participated. Students will then be able to view the work of 89 students from 55 schools whose poster was selected including two of our students, Lucy and Mirabel. A big congratulations to Lucy and Mirabel for their hard work, creativity, and awareness regarding individuals of refugee backgrounds. Both posters will be displayed in the new Children’s Artspace at Adelaide Festival Centre from Friday 21st of June to Sunday 21st of July.

Well done to all the students who participated and enhanced the notion that Emmaus is a place where everyone belongs!

Emily Simunsen

Wellbeing Officer

At Emmaus, we believe that all students have the right to learn and develop socially and emotionally in a safe environment. We offer a variety of ways to ensure this happens for our students.

The Resilience Project

The Resilience Project is a dedicated program that focusses on positive health strategies aimed at preventing mental health issues and enhancing children’s ability to manage challenges. Rooted in the principles of gratitude, empathy, and mindfulness, this evidence-based program includes content tailored for students, staff, and parents/carers. Through the school partnership program, we aim to promote mental health awareness and support in classrooms, staff environments, and in family settings.

Good Beginnings

The Good Beginnings program offers an engaging program to begin the school year, nurturing positive relationships and laying the framework for a successful year.  Through a range of lessons and activities, students engage not only with their classmates but also with peers across different grade levels, their assigned buddy class, and their house team, fostering connections and collaboration.

Wellbeing Officer

At Emmaus we have a dedicated Wellbeing Officer available two days a week to support children in developing their social-emotional skills, building confidence, and fostering resilience. Our officer runs programs such as "Cool, Calm, and Confident Kids" and "What's Buzz," which are designed to enhance students' abilities to manage emotions, build self-assurance, and develop resilience.

Miss Molly

At Emmaus, we have Miss Molly, our Groodle, who plays a special role in supporting the wellbeing of our students, staff, and families. Miss Molly helps to create a positive and comforting atmosphere, offering companionship and emotional support to everyone in our school community.

Oasis

In the bustling environment of a school, filled with activity and noise, it can sometimes become overwhelming for certain learners. The Emmaus Oasis is a tranquil place to support the wellbeing of our children and can be accessed when they need time to gain control of their emotions. The Oasis has calm music and activities to promote regulation so they can reset and return to their learning.

Lunch Time Clubs

At Emmaus we have lunchtime clubs running in terms 2, 3 and 4 as part of our ongoing commitment in supporting our students and fostering a positive school environment. Offering a structured play option during lunch breaks can greatly benefit students, particularly those who may find play challenging or need a quiet space to relax and recharge. These include:

• Dance Club
• Book Club
• Lego Club
• Gardening Club
• Minecraft Club
• Making Club
• Let’s Be Active

Ensuring the safety and well-being of our students is a top priority here at Emmaus. As such, we would like to remind all parents and guardians of the multiple avenues available to report student absences or late arrivals.

To report your child's absence or late arrival, please use one of the following methods:

Reply Text to 0417 038 063. Please note that direct messages to this number will not be received.

Phone (08) 83227211: Speak to our friendly staff or leave a message on our answering machine if calling before 8:30am.

Email: Send an email to absent@emmaus.catholic.edu.au or information@emmaus.catholic.edu.au.

We kindly ask that you contact the front office for any absenteeism notifications. Due to the morning activities in classrooms, it may not always be possible for teachers to relay messages to the office before 9 am.

For extended leave requests of 5 days or more, please complete the absenteeism form at the front office.

Late Arrivals and Early Departures:

If your child arrives late to school or needs to leave early, they must be signed in/out via the iPad at the front office by a parent or guardian.

It's important to note that if a student is late to class and the arrival hasn't been reported to the front office, they will be marked as absent, and a text will be sent to parents from 0417 038 063.

Thank you for your cooperation and support in ensuring the safety and well-being of all our students.

The Kiss and Drop zone is the yellow marked area as you enter the carpark from Todd Street, that enables you to drop off and pick up your children safely and quickly.

The intention is that drivers do not wait in these zones and that you stay in the vehicle to ensure traffic is streamlined and traffic queues are minimized.

In reality, it only takes one or two inconsiderate drivers to overstay in the zone and the system breaks down, leading to frustration and delays.

Please familiarise yourself with our Kiss and Drop guidelines:

• Kiss and Drop zone is a NO PARKING zone. If your child is not ready and waiting for you, please continue to lap the carpark. Alternatively, park your vehicle in a carpark and wait. Please do not park in the kiss and drop zone to wait for your child as this builds up traffic on Todd Street where accidents have occurred. The aim of Kiss and Drop is for free flowing traffic.
• It is an expectation that drivers continue to the end of the kiss and drop zone, to allow room for others.
• For safety, it is recommended that students exit and enter the vehicle kerbside only. Children should have their schoolbags on their lap to ensure the driver does not need to exit the vehicle.
• Do not get out of your car.
• If you are required to get out of your vehicle to assist your child with their bag or seatbelt, please do not use Kiss and Drop. Park your vehicle so you can assist your child safely. 
• Staff will be on Kiss and Drop duty to assist with free flow of traffic and child safety from 8.30am - 8.45am and 3.05pm - 3.25pm. Please ensure your child is collected by 3.25pm.
• Please use the pedestrian crossing when walking between the carpark and the Kiss and drop area.
• Please ensure you remain under the speed limit of 10km/h at all times.

Staff have been advised to remind all families to use the crossing correctly. If you choose not to use the crossing, you will be redirected by staff on duty. Please do not take this personally; it is their job to keep everyone safe.

Please visit the link to the Emmaus Catholic School Uniform Policy - about-us/uniform

In line with our SunSmart policy, students are required to wear the Emmaus bucket hat during Terms 1, 3 and 4. 

Students without a hat will be required to play under the shelter only at recess and lunch times. 

Emmaus hats are available for purchase at Lowes, Colonnades. A small number of hats are available for sale in the Front Office for $21. Sizes small or medium.

Catholic School Parents SA - CSPSA welcomes all parents and carers of children in Catholic schools to attend a FREE workshop on how we as families can work together with our children to be Cybersafe Families.
The event will have online and in person attendance options on Wednesday June 19, 6pm-8pm (in person at St Martin de Porres School, Sheidow Park).
Todd Murfitt has a unique perspective on the importance of technology and education, following nearly twenty years as an educator, with the past ten years being a primary principal in South Australia.
To register, please visit https://registrationcentre.cesa.catholic.edu.au/event-5732346