Principal's Post

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

I do continue to be amazed by how many good humans there are in the world. I know there is much that is not good and I get the sadness and hurt that comes with this. It is something that shows the other side of humanity, a side I cannot understand or try to reconcile with any logic. I get life can be like this, humans not being kind to other humans, not giving out the good stuff. But, what I continue to discover when in conversations with our kids, with our staff and with you, our parents and grandparents, is that I am blessed, we are blessed.

I have had the privilege of speaking with so many parents and grandparents recently, especially at the swimming carnival last week, but also in Kiss and Drive. You really do get who I am as a human. What I discovered in these conversations is that I got who you were as a human, a good human, a human with gratitude and a joy to share. You may not know this, but I hope you sensed it, you brought so much to me in those conversations. Yep, you are good humans. We have you in an abundance of blessings here. I especially want to thank a grandmother, Rhonda, for her generosity and her kindness. I was meant to go see my mum that arvo to tell her about Rhonda, but I never got to it. I need to do that this week.

The world is a small place hey. As you know I am Basso boy. The other week I had one of our great little humans tell me about her grandmother, Lorna, having an afternoon with my mum, Violet. Hard to explain the moment of one of our beautiful kids, a beautiful soul, telling me this. Man, I have it so good. Now that was joy and reminded me again of how even though I leave at the end of the year, there are still so many human connections out there that will continue to bind me to you. It is funny, but the closer I get to the end of my time with you, the more I feel connected as a human to each of you. Quite something that sort of makes it feel okay.

The Dalai Lama understands this concept of being a good human. It is the foundation of everything. I know we can get caught up in the other stuff. I get we can be hard on others at times, not show them care. I get it. I mean, I have done it. But it is not my fundamental belief that being hard on others, not showing care and compassion for others. How could this be something that brings any sense of joy or peace to our lives? It cannot bring us inner peace, only a struggle, a turmoil. It is not good for our wellbeing. But it is okay, by the way, to be in moments like this. We can pull ourselves out of this when our foundational belief is that of the Dalai Lama. Be a good human who is warm hearted and affectionate. Just take a moment this week to think about how many good humans you get to meet in your day. You will already know, so it will not be a surprise, but there will be many who add something to who you are. They do not take away from you as a person, but add to your wellness and sense of self. Like I said, I get that abundantly.

It is just like Gandhi says, this selflessness, this service for others. Just think about how many parents stood up to come and be timekeepers at the swimming carnival last week. The number of parents who came to Mercy Mission Day to look after kids. I mean, you have to put yourself out to help, to serve others selflessly. This service allows us to do what we do. I think of Ingrid, one of our mums, who gave so much time to coordinate the swimming club. Just a wonderful gift for the kids. Ingrid could not do this alone, so others stepped up to help with training and breakfast. It always takes one, then one to follow, then the rush comes with others hopping on board. It is seriously something special, this momentum. It is the same with Columba Runner’s with Tanya and Louise. One or two lead, then the next follower brings momentum. The first follower theory is rampant at St Col’s.

You know, from your selfless service, that this is the best way to find yourself. Losing yourself in the service of others. We do it with our families. We are selfless for our kids. You will recall from many of my Posts, it is okay to sometimes be selfish as well, but for the purpose of this Post, we are 100% in on being of service to others. Just wait and see the next time you are selfless in your service to those around you. I mean it was obvious again yesterday at the Interschool ‘A Division’ Athletics. Our kids, parents and staff, 100% there for others. I just think there is something about us at St Col’s. It is like what we see continually in our Pastoral Care Committee. It sets an amazing example for our kids and for us a people. Serve selflessly and see what happens. I really do think there is so much goodness in the world right now. I could tell you a bucket full of things already from my week. Just ask me, and I will tell you a story or ten. Just like when I went into a class the other day checking out some literacy work the kids were doing, and one of the kids said she will miss me next year and did not want me to go. Just out of the blue. And people wonder why I think I am the luckiest principal on the planet. I mean, really, to get that, what more do I need. Zip!!! Zero!!! Niente!!!

Funny, but it leads me into my next quote. I cannot explain the calmness that I felt at that moment. Like you, my brain has a hundred things running through it constantly. Yes, you know what I mean. Yours does too. You have so much going on. So much happening with school, your kids, work, home and that is only the start, so you know what I mean. The notion of calmness, you have to be kidding me. But the quote does say it all. Probs does not need me repeating it, but I will anyway.

Calmness is a human superpower. The ability to not overreact or take things personally keeps your mind clear and your heart at peace. What a wonderful world we would live in, if we were able to bring this to our day. I know there will be days where I find this easy, but I also know there are days that finding calm is just not going to happen. I have found recently, because as you know I did drift away from attending mass a bit in 2021, that popping into the church for 15 minutes during times of stress or a little too much heat in the kitchen, has allowed me to find a calmness again. I had lost this connection, but have it back in a way like never before. Like it does, it just fills our hearts with peace. I hope you are getting times to be, and to feel this calmness that will allow you to feel a peacefulness even in the turbulent moments of the day and week.

I am continuing to learn more and more about the benefits of feeling a sense of peace that comes with remaining calm. I reckon it is because I have this underlying belief that everyone here at St Col’s gets that things are not always going to be perfect or go according to plan. This is quite unique in a world that expects perfection from all of us. It fosters acceptance. Once we have an acceptance that while we are giving our all to be the best we can be, that there will be ebbs and flows. This allows us to remain calm and not be reactive, but rather keep our mind clear and our heart at peace.

Interschool Athletics Carnival ‘A’ Division

Having won ‘B’ Division back in 2020, we entered ‘A’ Division in 2021, to finish 2^nd by 12 points. Like it was an outstanding effort by all our team in 2021. We came from the clouds in 2021 to prepare for another crack at the Division title this year in 2022. Our kids were committed to training in the early mornings, a big effort for the teachers, Mr Banks and Miss Kirwan-Ward, who attended the sessions, but also for parents. The thing is, it was another example of selfless service by everyone.

So we went into 2022 thinking we may be a chance of matching 2021, but also being realistic that we were up against the big guns of Ursula Frayne, OLG North Beach, Mel Maria, St Peter’s, Holy Rosary and others. Well, let’s just say, we finished with a rush and were named the A Division Champions for 2022. It came down to the relays where our kids stood up to the pressure of baton changes and a crowd that was fully invested in the kids efforts. Our St Col’s Kids displayed an attitude that if bottled, would be a best seller. Their care and concern for others and self was quite remarkable. It was something pretty special today for our kids, but also for all of us present for the day. You could see their efforts on their faces. The effort was something else. It lit up the track, quite literally.

I wish to congratulate our students for being such an exceptional group. The collective team spirit was at the highest of levels. It is all about our kids and they deserve this time to celebrate. When you give so much, and persist and have a determination to give your best, you end up getting what you get. Everyone should be so proud of how our kids lead us with their humility and passion about being a St Columba’s Kid. I could not have asked for more from everyone involved.

A special thank you to Mr Banks and Miss Kirwan-Ward for their investment in our kids and preparing them over the last month. It has been a big effort, but one that I know they have done out of care and love for the kids. That was so obvious today.

Staffing News Update

As with every year, schools have staff changes take place as opportunities open up for growth. At the end of this year, Caroline Brewer will be taking an opportunity for a secondment to Holy Rosary School, Derby. Caroline’s passion for the Kimberley is something that is pretty special. We thank Caroline for her commitment to St Columba’s and wish her well over the next couple of years. St Columba’s School looks forward to seeing Caroline back with us in 2025.

Fran DaRui will also be taking up an opportunity to teach at St Luke’s School in Woodvale. Fran was a student here during her primary school years, and returned to be with us when she first started teaching. Fran has contributed much to our kids, their families and St Col’s. Fran will be an asset to St Luke’s next year and into the future. We wish Fran all the best as she takes up her new teaching position.

We look forward to welcoming Tammy Mostamandi back in 2023, along with Madison Kirwan-Ward to our staff. It is an exciting time for our staff who are appointed to a position for next year. We also have Andrea Middleton returning to St Columba’s next year to teach in our Kindergarten. We look forward to the continued positive impact that Andrea, Tammy and Madison will bring to our St Columba’s community and to our kids in their learning. Other staffing updates will be communicated through the Donegal as they take place.

Sacramental Programs in 2023 and Opportunities

As we continue to work with our Parish and Fr Andrew, please note that sacraments can be arranged for families wanting to do so in 2023. This is something new for 2023. For more information, please refer to the attachment to this newsletter.

School Advisory Council and CSPWA Nominations

If you are wishing to nominate for the School Advisory Council or CSWPA Executive positions for 2023, please make an appointment to meet with Art. Make this appointment through the front office.

Italian Night This Friday Evening 4 November

Thank you to everyone involved in organising this event through the CSPWA. It is an opportunity to come together and enjoy a chilled out couple of hours on the oval. I am looking forward to my pasta, but when am I not looking forward to pasta. We get how busy everyone is so if you have been able to find time to be here tomorrow evening, we look forward to seeing you.

Faction Swimming Carnival Results

Champion Swimmers

The Spirit Award for 2022 goes to COLUMBANUS.

Thanks again for another great couple of weeks. Cannot believe we are heading into Week 5. Wish time would slow down a little so we get an opportunity to breathe a little. Enjoy your next few days and the weekend. Look after yourself and be gentle with self and others.

Good things your way!

Art

School Counsellor News

The Article ‘Love bridges: Why micro-moments of connection matter’ is a wonderful thought provoking piece as it brings to light how important connection matters in building strong relationships with our children. In our busy society and life styles, parents often feel like there are not enough hours in the day, let alone how to find enough time to spend quality time with their children.  It is important to realise that quality time does not mean you need to put aside hours of time but it can be as simple as leaving a note in your child’s lunch box or giving them a cuddle. These micro-moments of connection all add up and help a child to feel loved and appreciated giving them confidence and a strong self-esteem.

Nicole Leach
School Counsellor

P & F News

Tommy Sugo Fundraiser

The CSPWA is running a Tommy Sugo fundraiser to help with the cost of new playground equipment. Some Year 4 students have put together a proposal for some new playground climbing equipment and have asked the CSPWA to help fund it.

With each purchase of the yummy pastas, sauces and ready-made meals Tommy Sugo will donate 20% of the sales. So check out the flyer attached to the newsletter, pass it around to family and friends and help the CSPWA by making a purchase.

Not keen to order online, no problem, Tommy Sugo will have a pop-up shop at school this Thursday 20^th October from 2:30pm. Come and purchase your dinner for the evening or purchase a few and freeze them for quick easy delicious mid-week meals.

Entertainment Memberships

Online memberships are available again this year.  Memberships can be purchased online

https://www.entertainment.com.au/orderbooks/83589g

We have had queries from families who would like to make a contribution to the CSPWA without being involved in purchasing items. This is incredibly generous, and we are always grateful for any donations in whatever form they take.

The CSPWA bank details are below and can be used at anytime to pay online for fundraisers or for contributions. We ask that you include a family name in the description so that we can allocate funds coming into the account

Name – The Roman Catholic Archbishop of Perth, St Columba’s P&F Association

BSB – 086 006

ACC – 679360271

Any questions or queries, I can be contacted via email gtarmstrong@iinet.net.au

Tanya Armstrong

President CSPWA

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Together we’re making a difference

At Pharmacy 777, your support makes a difference to your school.
We understand how much your school means to you, that’s why at Pharmacy 777, we’re passionate about making a difference. Our Community Spirit Program makes giving back to your school easier. As a Community Spirit member, for every transaction you make at Pharmacy 777 Bayswater and Maylands, they will give part proceeds back to the school. This contribution accumulates over time and funds raised support causes at the heart of your school. We would encourage all school community members to visit Pharmacy 777 Bayswater and Maylands and join up.

Library News

Library 2022

A warm invitiation is extended to ALL families to visit the library from 8:15am in the mornings Monday – Friday.  

(If Mrs Cuthbert is unavailable, the library will be closed) 

Pre-primary, Kindy & Pre-Kindy families take advantage and come and read all our fabulous picture books with your little ones till 8:45am. 

The library is a calming and quiet place, making it the perfect spot for students to have a smooth and calming transition in the morning.

Students may like to return and borrow books before school.

Looking forward to seeing you the library.

Reading and activities in the LIBRARY

At LUNCHTIMES

Students may also use this time to exchange their library book.

Thank you everyone!

Rita Cuthbert – Library Officer – Library - the original search engine

Pastoral Care

Religious Education and Curriculum News

From our Year 2 Class

In Year 2 we have learnt that Jesus began a special family, the ‘family of God’, called the Church, to teach his followers about God and God’s love for all people.

We learnt that Jesus invites all people to be part of God’s family and they do this when they: believe in God, live as Jesus taught, show love to others and join the community of his Church through Baptism.

From our Year 3 Class

The Year Three classes have been learning about the Beatitudes in Religious Education. We celebrated Mass on All Saints Day and listened to Father Andrew as he read ‘The Beatitudes’. These are a set of teachings by Jesus. They are intended to help guide us to show kindness in everything we do. We especially liked ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.’

From our Year 4 Class

Last week the Year 4s attended Kings Park Botanic Garden and took part in two fun filled sessions.

Orienteering – Navigating nature: This was a great introduction to navigation skills; plant uses and adaptations. The students used map reading, spatial awareness, and problem-solving skills to navigate a series of control points, discovering interesting plants and completing activities along the way.

Child vs Wild – Bush skills for kids:  The students were introduced to bush skills, with activities such as shelter building, finding drinking water and making energy snacks.

Community Notices

Enrolments are now open for VacSwim swimming lessons during the summer school holidays. VacSwim offers fun lessons at beach or pool locations. They are a great school holiday activity and they teach valuable safety skills to help keep your child safe in the water.

Enrol at education.wa.edu.au/vacswim

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Mercedes College | A College for every girl in the heart of your city!

We have limited places available in Year 7 for 2023.  Interest welcome in other year levels for 2023.

If you are considering enrolling your daughter at Mercedes College, please visit our website at www.mercedes.wa.edu.au to request a prospectus, to enrol online or to book a tour of our campus. Please contact our Enrolments Officer, Mrs Nicole Kirk on 9323 1323 if you require further information.

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Now taking enrolments for 2024 and 2025

La Salle College is an innovative Catholic co-education secondary school guided by our Lasallian principles.

We embrace the uniqueness of every individual at our College and our safe, inclusive and welcoming environment enables everyone to learn and flourish in their own distinctive way.

At La Salle College we offer a range of learning programs and academic pathways to inspire our students, as well as opportunities in a multitude of areas such as skill-based and work-based learning, music, arts, sport and extracurricular activities.

Our wonderful facilities and generous outdoor spaces provide an innovative and modern learning environment. We believe that success is more than just academic achievement, but the strive for personal excellence.

Through our faith, culture of excellence, values and systems, we equip our students with the tools they need to become life-long learners and positive contributors, voices and leaders in the community beyond their College days.

A Lasallian school is more than just a curriculum, it is a united community connected in values, in spirit and a common experience. Our vision for learning is centred on Transforming tomorrow’s hearts, minds and lives.

To learn more about a La Salle College education visit our website at www.lasalle.wa.edu.au.

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