2024 - Term 3, Week 9

Dear Families and Caregivers

End of Term Reflections

As the end of Term 3 approaches and the holidays are just around the corner, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been a vibrant and exciting term. The coming break provides a well-earned rest for both students and staff, but before we switch off, let's celebrate some of the fantastic achievements over the past few weeks.

Last Thursday night, our instrumental concert was a shining example of the incredible talent at Emmaus. Our students took to the stage and performed with confidence and passion. The three choirs were simply amazing, and we are eager to see our Festival Choir perform next week at the Festival Theatre - what a special moment that will be! The percussion ensemble and rock band also delivered stellar performances, their timing and rhythm were impeccable, setting a high bar for future performances. A huge thank you to Cindy Buckley for her tireless work in leading this space, and to Wynn for his exceptional support of Cindy and his encouragement of our budding drummers.

The previous week, our staff participated in a special retreat. It was a time for reflection and for the leadership team to fully embrace servant leadership, with the leadership group preparing and serving a meal for the rest of the staff. A special thank you to Nicola Gill and Justine Raponi for their organisation and leadership of this day, and to the entire staff for their participation with such joy and camaraderie. It was truly a memorable and meaningful experience!

The P&F (Parents and Friends) group has also been hard at work, hosting wonderful events such as the Father’s Day stall and the school disco. Their dedication continues to enrich our community, and we are so grateful for all they do.

Looking ahead, we still have several exciting events to come as we close out the year. Grandparents Day (Friday 18th October – Week 1 next term) and Carols Night (Wednesday 4th December – Week 8) are always standout occasions, and this year we have a new format for both of these events so stay tuned. Additionally, this year we’ve taken extra steps to avoid disappointment due to inclement weather. We’ve scheduled a backup date for Carols Night should it be needed. However, if both dates are affected by storms or lightning, we will cancel the event for safety reasons. We also want to give our families forewarning of two Pupil Free Days next term, Monday 18th November and Monday 2nd December. Our staff will be undertaking professional development on both of these days with Playberry Laser Literacy, allowing us to create further consistency across our school in literacy to better support our learners. Term 4 finishes on Thursday 12th December with a 3.05pm dismissal time.  OSHC will be available, if needed. Our Term 4 Calendar will be out soon!

Resilience in Children

As many of you know, we are deeply committed to fostering resilience in our students through The Resilience Project, led by Kate Thompson and her dedicated team. Next year, we are excited to welcome Martin Heppell to Adelaide to speak with parents about how they can support their children in developing resilience, practicing gratitude, managing anxiety, and becoming confident problem solvers. Research shows that when adults frequently intervene in children’s challenges, they miss out on vital opportunities to build problem-solving skills. Without these skills, children may feel more anxious when they face difficulties alone. So one of our jobs is to give children a voice, to listen and support students in solving everyday issues as they arise.

We would like to thank the many parents who already encourage their children to speak up, solve problems independently, and practice kindness, compassion, and resilience. These qualities are at the heart of The Resilience Project and are values we continually strive for as a community.

Gratitude, in particular, plays a crucial role in resilience. It’s about focusing on what we have in the present moment rather than worrying about what we don’t. This practice helps us recognise and appreciate the positive aspects of our lives every day.

Just a reminder that a Gratitude Newsletter was sent to families last week. This contained insights and tips on how to incorporate gratitude into our daily lives.

Building Update

The construction of our new library, classrooms, and early learning space is well underway, and it’s exciting to see the progress. At Emmaus, we are committed to directing our resources toward what will best benefit our students, and these new facilities are a perfect example of that. We look forward to seeing how these spaces will enhance learning and growth in the years ahead.

Like all schools, we have areas for improvement and must often balance competing priorities. To guide our decisions, we always ask, "How will this benefit the students?" For instance, when deciding between new parking facilities or additional courts for the children to play on, we will always prioritise spaces that directly enhance student engagement and well-being. While aesthetic upgrades are important, they take a back seat until the more pressing needs that impact our students are addressed.

Wishing you all a restful and joyful Term 3 break, and we look forward to seeing everyone back in Term 4, ready to embrace new challenges and continue our journey together!

Warm regards,

Suzanne Budd

THE ALTAR SERVING TEAM – YOUTH SERVICE FOR THE EMMAUS COMMUNITY 

We warmly invite our year 3-6 students who have completed their Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Reconciliation, Confirmation and first Holy Communion) to join our Altar Serving Team. The team will be trained over a few training sessions led by a parent volunteer, then will take turns Altar Serving at our Thursday morning Masses. Being an Altar Server is a wonderful way to learn more about Holy Mass, to participate more deeply, to serve God and our school community and be an example of Discipleship. If parents or students wish to know more or become involved, please speak or email Mrs Gill.   

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.     

Nicola Gill     

Assistant Principal 
Religious Identity and Mission 

ngill@emmaus.catholic.edu.au    

Week 10 Friday 27th September!

Wear your favourite sports team colours or uniform.

Remember your gold coin donation for Catholic Charities!

Exciting News 

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our new Virtual Tour on our website! Now, families can explore our beautiful grounds, see our classrooms and facilities, and learn about our vibrant community - all from the comfort of their home.

Check it out on our website under the enrolment tab: www.emmaus.catholic.edu.au

We can’t wait to share our lovely school with the community!

Launch of SEQTA Engage

We are pleased to announce the launch of SEQTA Engage, our new platform designed to strengthen communication between families and the school. SEQTA Engage is widely used in Catholic schools across South Australia and will provide easy access to important school information.

To get started, please check your inbox for a welcome email from SEQTA. This email will include instructions on how to set up your login details. We recommend completing the setup process online before downloading the SEQTA Engage app to your devices.

This is an exciting step for our school community, and we appreciate your support as we implement the platform. Please refer to the email, as well as the additional resources provided, for guidance.

Assessment: A Learning Journey, Not Just a Grade

As a school, we are focusing on changing the conversation around assessment with students. Rather than viewing each assessment as a final judgement, we encourage everyone to see it as part of a larger learning journey. Each task is just one moment in time – a snapshot of where your child is on their educational path.

The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA), states that "assessment is an ongoing process aimed at understanding and improving student learning." This perspective shifts the focus away from simply achieving a grade and instead emphasises what can be learned from each task and how students can grow.

When discussing assessments with your child, ask questions like:

What was your biggest learning about this topic?
What can you improve on next time?
How would you use your learning in the real world?

These conversations will help foster a growth mindset, where the emphasis is not necessarily on achieving an "A" but on the skills and knowledge gained along the way. As ACARA highlights, "effective assessment empowers students to reflect on their learning, identify strengths, and target areas for improvement."

Together, we can help students see assessments not as an endpoint, but as an opportunity to reflect, grow, and set new goals.

By focusing on progress, not perfection, we help students develop resilience and a love of learning!

Bucket Hats can be purchased from Lowes at Colonnades or there is a small supply available in the front office that can be purchased for $21.

Hats are now to be worn during recess and lunch breaks when outside.

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.

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

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 066-782 A/C 100002617.

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

QKR is a convenient app that simplifies and speeds up the process of paying for school-related items.

Emmaus Catholic School utilises QKR to make it easier for parents to pay for various expenses, including School Fees, OSHC Fees, Enrolment Fees, Instrumental Hire, P&F Events, Special Lunches, Excursions and Camps, and more.

To help you get started with the app, we've provided the QKR Guide, which you can download here!

Download QKR for Apple here

Download QKR for Android here

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.

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.