Assistant Head of Primary P-4 and Gifted Education Coordinator P-6
PASTORAL UPDATE
BULLYING NO WAY WEEK: SMALL ACTS. BIG IMPACT.
This week, we joined schools across Australia in recognising Bullying No Way Week, promoting safe, respectful and inclusive communities where every child feels a sense of belonging. Inspired by this year’s theme, “Small Acts. Big Impact,” students took part in activities including creating origami kindness cranes, as symbols of hope and inclusion, and making guest appearances in our “Be the I in K_ND” photo wall. Guided by our Dominican values and the example of St Martin de Porres, these experiences encouraged students to recognise that even the smallest acts of kindness and compassion can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
“Encourage one another and build each other up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
SUPPORTING ONE ANOTHER THROUGH CONVERSATION
R U OK? Day is fast approaching, providing an opportunity for our school community to join thousands of others across Australia in promoting meaningful conversations, connection and a sense of belonging. Grounded in our Dominican values of compassion, community and care for the dignity of every person, this day reminds us of the importance of noticing, listening and supporting one another.
R U OK? Day promotes a simple but powerful message: taking the time to check in with family, friends, and colleagues can make a significant difference. A genuine conversation can help someone feel seen, heard, valued and supported. By reaching out to others with kindness and empathy, we strengthen the relationships that help individuals and communities flourish.
To celebrate R U OK? Day, on Thursday 10 September, students are invited to wear a yellow accessory to school, such as a yellow ribbon, bracelet, hat, hair accessory, or socks. Throughout the day, students on the P-4 campus will participate in a range of age-appropriate activities designed to foster kindness, empathy, connection, help-seeking, and a sense of belonging.
Parents and caregivers play a vital role in supporting children’s wellbeing. We encourage families to use R U OK? Day as an opportunity to check in with their children and create space for open and honest conversations about feelings, friendships and mental health. Simple questions such as, “How are you?”, “How are you travelling?”, or “You don’t seem yourself lately. Would you like to talk?” can open the door to meaningful discussion.
Listening with curiosity and an open mind, asking questions to better understand your child’s experiences, and reassuring them that support is available can help them feel safe, valued and understood. Letting children know that they can return to the conversation whenever they need, and encouraging them to seek help from trusted adults when required, builds confidence, resilience and a strong sense of connection with others.
GIFTED EDUCATION UPDATE
YOUNG VOICES, BIG STORIES
Students in Years K-6 are invited to participate in ABC Education’s News in My Neighbourhood competition this term. This exciting opportunity encourages students to become young journalists and storytellers by sharing a story about a community or culture that is important to them. Students may submit a short video, written piece or an artwork that highlights a newsworthy event, achievement, issue or celebration they believe others should know about. The competition is a wonderful way for students to develop their creativity, communication skills and understanding of the world around them. Submissions are due in Week 10. Further information can be found in the Term 3 Flyer, the Competition Rules and on the ABC News in My Neighborhood website.
FINAL MATHEMATICS COMPETITION PAPERS
Students participating in the Maths Explorer, Maths Games and Maths Olympiad programs will complete their final assessments during Week 8. Competition days and times are summarised in the table below. We wish all participating students every success as they apply their mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills in these challenging competitions.
| Competition | Date | Time |
| Maths Explorer | Wednesday 9 September | This Paper will be held during normal school hours |
| Maths Games (Year 5-6) | Wednesday 9 September | 7:55am (before school) |
| Maths Olympiad (Years 5-6) | Friday 11 September | 7:55am (before school) |
Ms Lauren Petroni
Assistant Head of Primary P-4 and Gifted Education Coordinator P-6