The primary campus has continued to be a hive of activity in recent weeks in relation to learning as well as social events.  Last week, during Book Week, we extended the usual activities to include an opportunity for primary and secondary students to work together, firstly reading and then creating our own story about reading.  The ability to be lost in a book - whether it is enchanting, spell-binding or engrossing because of the relevance of the content - is something that should not be underestimated.  With the increase of technological devices and the busyness of life, it can sometimes be hard to find the time to read, but it is so important.  Reading, or being read to, has the capacity to extend a child's vocabulary significantly as well as helping to develop their writing skills and ideas.  Further benefits can be seen here:

Next year, we will be implementing a new approach to reading and comprehension across P - 6 which is being developed by Toowoomba Catholic Schools.  This will allow us to build on the successes we have seen with the previous Reading Improvement Strategy, as well as utilise new research into how children learn to read more effectively.  Further details of this initiative will be shared with parents in Term 4 but in the meantime, we are pleased to be able to develop our practices as educators in line with current research so that our learners can continue to thrive.

Last week, Year 6 students interviewed members of the school and wider communities about their time at St Joseph's and how their experiences whilst they were here influenced the person they have become.  This is a wonderful opportunity for our young people to understand that all our experiences impact our lives in some way and that we can always learn something from every situation.  

In recent weeks we have welcomed Year 11 student, Olivia Page to the primary campus on a Tuesday lunchtime to host a drama club at lunchtime. It is lovely to be able to support such an initiative from a secondary student and to see the delight of the primary students as they engage with the activities that Olivia has planned.  

Another successful disco was held at the end of Week 6, thanks to the help of a significant number of staff members and parents as well as Year 5 and 6 students.  Thanks to all those who supported the event which was held in aid of the primary netball team who will be travelling to a weekend competition at the end of this this term.  The money will help with costs incurred during the weekend.

Finally, we have welcomed three new students to our community in recent weeks - Ella (Year 4), Serafina (Year 3) and Evelyn (Year 2).  I know that they have already been made to feel very welcome by their peers.  That is just one of the things that we do well at St Joseph's.

With God's blessings