Students on the Primary Campus have been engaged in many activities over the last few weeks.  In terms of the curriculum, students in Years 4 – 6 have started Japanese lessons with Ms Kendall.  As a non-Japanese speaker, I have been in awe of the way in which they have embraced the language and cultural learning thus far and the level of concentration they have shown in their lessons.  With the whole lesson being conducted in Japanese, they have had to focus intently.  I hope that these students have been sharing their new learning at home. All students on the campus have started to create their art work for the Crisp’s Art Show under the guidance of Mrs McLucas. Mary Findlay from the Stanthorpe Art Gallery will join us on Friday to provide some added encouragement to the students.  Last week, some students in Years 5 and 6 competed in the local round of the QAMT Maths Quiz and this week, 34 students from across a number of classes have completed the Australian Maths Competition.  This is not an easy competition but all the students applied themselves well. The athletics carnival, which was held last week, was another success of Term 3.  Despite the fact that parents were unable to attend, the students enjoyed themselves on the day. 

More generally in the classrooms, our Visible Learning journey has continued as the teachers have undertaken further learning of their own in order to improve their own skills.  In our desire to develop learners who are thoughtful and reflective and have a desire to improve their skills, we encourage learners to be able to explain what they are learning, where they are going, how they are doing and how they will know they have been successful.  Have you asked your child these questions recently?  These are much better questions than ‘how was your day?’. 

This week we welcomed prospective parents of Prep students for 2021 to view our school. We shared with them our reasons why we believe St Joseph’s is the best choice for their child next year and into the future. Joining us were some parents of current Prep students as well as students from Year 6 and Year 12 who all spoke confidently about our school and the benefits of an education that has core values of forgiveness, compassion, mercy and dignity at it centre, a commitment to being of service in the community and a nurturing atmosphere which appreciates each individual. Over the next few months we will work with the parents of the new students to ensure their transition to full time education is a successful one. 

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge those teachers who were recognised as part of Catholic Education Week.  Mrs Charlton and Mrs Campbell both received long service awards and Mrs McLucas was nominated for a Spirit of Catholic Education award.  Congratulations ladies!

With God's blessings.

Sarah Yates
Assistant to the Principal Primary