Newsletter 19 2023

Welcome, students, staff, and parents,

Today’s theme for the Mass is the important and heartfelt emotion of joyful thanks. It is important for us to regularly stop and reflect on those things that bring us joyful thanks. It is good for our own wellbeing.

I am grateful for my time at St Raphael’s School. I am grateful for the community I have got to know, the hard-working staff, the caring parents, and the good humour of the students that I have got to know. I know St Raphael's School as a strong community where everyone knows and cares for each other. A strong community can fill us with joyful thanks, and I would like to thank the parents and caregivers for their contribution to St Raphael's School. Particularly, I reflect upon the daily interactions at the kiss and drop at the beginning and end of each day, Coffee with the Principal, the variety night concert, grandparents’ day, the inaugural intercol, and the Board and the Parents and Friends committee.

For a small school, we provide lots of opportunities and it is great to see the way that students demonstrate joyful thanks by the way they participate, and they make the most of these opportunities. In most schools, when there is an event like for instance the Catholic Schools Music festival that instead of a small number of students participating-all students participate. They do this naturally because they feel know each other and they feel supported. There will be opportunities for the St Raphael's School community next year in the new building and it was great for students and staff to see how that will look. There will be opportunities that come with new students and new staff joining the community.

Let’s consider the power of joyful thanks. It is related to gratitude. Gratitude is the recognition of the good things in our lives. Even when things are tough, there are things that bring warmth and light to our lives. Thinking about everything you are grateful for—from the friends and family in your life to the clothes on your back to the food on your table—puts challenges in perspective and brings us a sense of joyful thanks. Sometimes it can be tough to be thankful for the unimportant things, especially in tough times. But once we begin counting our blessings, we often discover that we have many things to be thankful for and it brings joy. It’s simply the change in perspective from thinking about what we lack to focusing on what we have. There are countless reasons to be thankful – supportive friends, dedicated teachers, the opportunity to learn and grow, and the reassurance that God loves us and accepts us as we are.

Joyful thanks is more than just acknowledgment of blessings; they are a celebration of the connections between family, teachers, church, and community. Take a moment to think about the people who have supported you this year – family, teachers, friends. It allows us to appreciate that others care for us, and by expressing thanks, we not only uplift our own spirits but also contribute to a positive and supportive community where everyone feels valued and acknowledged. I feel joyful thanks for the staff that I have worked with in my time at St Raphael's School. The sentiments of Lyn Sharratt are present at St Raphael's School – the staff know the faces, know that everyone matters, and we all know that all students can learn. I’m not going to name any individual students because that would be unfair but there are numerous examples of students whose learning this year has been an inspiration.

A big thanks to the teaching staff whose daily care for their students is the most important part of the school. At the beginning of my time here we identified the changes we would like to make to our daily interactions, to the way pastoral care was delivered and wellbeing is practiced in the interactions between students and staff. I feel that we should stop and consider the considerable progress that we have made here, and this should be a source of joyful thanks. People are complex and I would like to thank the staff for their openness and their willingness to embrace some changes. I was taught early on by a mentor of mine that nothing changes by accident. It is important to acknowledge also our wonderful ESOs for the work that they do in supporting students and staff. I don’t think that we could manage without them.

Special thanks to the leadership team who I have worked closely with every day. Sometimes we were faced with challenges, but it wouldn’t be difficult to describe our feeling as one of joyful thanks. Special thanks to Corey-Lee Lewis, Helena Card, Anthony Sicari, Wendy Davey, Denise D'Alessandro, Damian Emery, Katrina Tucker. And a special thanks to Anne O’Connell for looking after the OSHC.

Joy is contagious, when you experience joy, it radiates to those around you. In a world that can sometimes feel hectic and demanding, our collective expressions of joyful thanks become a beacon of positivity, reminding us of the strength that lies in unity- a kind gesture, a supportive word, or a genuine smile has the power to brighten someone else's day. Share your joys with others and be a source of inspiration for those who may be facing difficulties.

So, as we conclude the year, let us embrace the spirit of joyful thanks. Take the time to reflect on the countless blessings that surround you, express your gratitude to those who have played a role in your journey, let the joy of God’s love be your guiding light, illuminating the path to success and fulfillment.

Mark Simpson
Acting Principal

Swimming Week

Thanks to all for you work to support our swimming students last week. For most it is a highlight and for others a source of trepidation.

Arch D Podcasting Awards

Recently, I had the absolute pleasure of attending the Arch D Podcasting awards ceremony at Sacred Heart College that recognised the highest performers from all the Catholic Schools that take part in this opportunity. I am delighted to share the acknowledgements below:

In addition, I note that the only team to prepare a few words of thanks was ours.

PODCAST EPISODE OF THE YEAR (PRIMARY) WINNERS
Recognising the most engaging episode that consistently and effectively use the techniques taught within the Arch D courses in the creation of their podcast. 

LLL Capability: Literate, numerate and effective communicators
“Incredible Jokes More Laughs” – Jess, Ivy, Mia and Luella (St Raphael’s School)

STUDENT VOICE (PRIMARY)
An award recognizing students who stepped out of their comfort zone, and made a big positive impact on their group’s podcast.

LLL Capability: Self-Aware, Collaborative & Socially Adept
Maxim (St Raphael’s School)

Well done to Anthony and the team!

Toasted Sandwich Fundraiser

Thanks to Mrs Purdie and her Maths Extension class who planned and organised the toasted sandwiches activity today. It was a great way to engage students in how Mathematics is part of our life-long learnin .

Thanks also to our parent/grandparent helpers who prepared and cooked the sandwiches, Lindy Hood, Anastasia Dixon and Aleksandra Gill.

2024 Staffing

I am pleased to announce the following staff members and their roles at St Raphael's School for 2024:

Principal:                         Emma Fowler
Assistant Principal:         Anthony Sicari
APRIM:                           Tanya Stott
Finance Officer:              Damian Emery

Reception:                       Tia Della Pace
Year 1:                             Meeiying Lee
Year 2:                             Janelle Scrivener
Year 3/4:                          Chris Uzzell
Year 5/6:                          Jodie Hamilton (Term 1)
Year 5/6:                          Tom Baxter

Physical Education:        Corey Tucker (Term 1 and 2)
Performing Arts:              Mandy Flynn
Numeracy Intervention:   Julie Purdie
EALD Coordinator           Anna Terminello
Language (Italian)           Lucia Mitchell 

Education Support Officers for 2024
Wendy Davey
Denise D'Alessandro
Katrina Tucker (Marketing)
Verity Arthur
Jacinta Nye
Deb Parker
Amy Pellegrini
Charlotte Robinson 

Departing staff:
Mark Simpson
Helena Card
Corey-Lee Lewis
David Monti
Leeanne McAloney
Oriana Radman
Anne O'Çonnell
Susan Moir

Staff on leave:
Clare Deverson (Term 1, 2024)
Louise Rowson (2024)
Kelly Davies (2024)
Denise D'Alessandro (Term 1, 2024)

I am in the process of appointing our new OSHC Director, and I will keep you updated on this appointment. We remain committed to providing OSHC for St Raphael's School families. 

Mark Simpson
Acting Principal

The season of Advent in preparation for Christmas is upon us now. We are waiting in joyful hope for the message of Christmas. The Season of Advent offers us each year, an opportunity to seek God within the boundaries of our souls while living outwardly amidst the noise and activity of the world around us. Hopefully, you can take some time to reflect on your busy lives at the moment and how you are travelling at this very busy and hectic time of the year.

"Advent: Re-Sowing the Seeds of Faith and Hope” 

"The four weeks of Advent allow us time to ponder how Jesus came into this world in such a stunningly humble way. As we contemplate His birth in a bed of straw in a messy stable, perhaps, we see our own life as being a little messy too. Our life is often distracted, self-centred and sometimes leaves us wishing we were better people. But if we can slow down and refocus our attention, we might realise that God is there, waiting to love us even though we have so many unfulfilled good intentions and so many unfulfilled desires about our spirituality." 

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the community of St Raphael’s School.  The children, parents and the staff have welcomed me this year into a very caring and nurturing environment. There will be treasured memories that I will take with me and the pleasure of being part of this dynamic community. I wish all of you a wonderful Christmas and may you stay safe and celebrate the joyfulness that this time of the year brings.

May we be people of joy and full of hope.

God Bless,
Helena Card
APRIM (Assistant Principal Religious Identity and Mission)

I would like to extend a sincere thank you to all the families and students at St Raphael’s School for their welcoming and support since the beginning of the year. I have thoroughly enjoyed working at St Raphael’s School and I have loved having the opportunity to know every student and will miss the incidental chats we have throughout the day. It is amazing to see the growth in the students throughout the year.

In addition to this I would like to say a huge thank you to Mia Harms, Mark Simpson, Helena Card and all the staff at St Raphael’s School. I feel incredibly blessed to have had the opportunity to work with you and I wish you all the very best and you will be missed.

Have a wonderful Christmas break and enjoy time with your family and friends.

Corey-Lee Lewis
Assistant Principal - Leader of Learning

Ukulele Club

In the past three weeks, the students in the Ukulele Club have been actively learning and practicing popular Christmas songs like 'Jingle Bells', 'Silent Night', and 'Joy to the World'.

For numerous club members, this has marked their initial experience of consistently mastering a musical instrument over an extended period, and it has been truly remarkable to observe the progress of our young student musicians and witness the growth of their self-confidence.

Interested in Joining?

Participating in the Ukulele Club offers Year 3 and 4 students the opportunity to accelerate their music studies and live performance skills with their peers.

The club meets once a week for a 45 minute lesson during school hours and lessons are free of charge, although all children will need to have access to a Ukulele at home for independent practice (usually priced between $40 - $100 at most Music retailers).

2024 Instrumental Program

New Students in 2024
Is your child interested in learning a musical instrument in 2024? If so, St Raphael's School currently offers one-on-one 30-minute lessons once a week during school and after school hours. We provide lessons for Piano, Guitar, Drumming/Percussion, and Voice/Singing.

As a member of our Instrumental Program, your child will also have the opportunity to participate in our mid-year student showcase, which is exclusive to families involved in the Instrumental Music Program.

Please note that our Music Tutors are independent contractors, and private tuition lessons come at an additional cost.

Is your child planning to continue instrumental lessons in 2024?
As limited spots are available in our Instrumental Program, students and families sometimes need to be waitlisted until a spot is made available.

Please contact your child’s Music Tutor to let them know:
- If your child will be continuing instrumental lessons in Term 1, 2024.
- If your child will be finishing instrumental lessons at the end of 2023.

Alternatively, please contact me, Mandy Flynn, Performing Arts Teacher aflynn@raph.catholic.edu.au if:
- Your child is interested in pursuing a different instrument in 2024.
- If you have any timetable requests for 2024? (i.e. after school lessons only, would prefer an afternoon time, etc).
- Your child is interested in learning an instrument that is not mentioned above.

Choir Ensemble 2024 (Year 5/6)

As many know, St Raphael’s School had 17 participating Year 5 and 6 choral singers this year, who delivered an exceptional performance at the Adelaide Festival Centre during the last week of Term 3.

In light of this success, we are thrilled to announce that St Raphael's School will once again be participating in the Catholic Schools Music Festival at the Adelaide Festival Centre in 2024. We extend a warm invitation to all Year 5 and 6 students to join our choir. We especially encourage our current Year 5 students to consider re-applying as ensemble leaders for the upcoming year.

This is a fantastic opportunity for our students to showcase their musical talents and be part of a vibrant and enriching experience. We look forward to another outstanding performance at the prestigious Adelaide Festival Centre.

Mrs Amanda Flynn
Performing Arts Coordinator

After a busy yet exciting Term 4, we concluded this year’s sports calendar. On Friday I had the privilege of presenting our young athletes with certificates to recognise their achievements. This assembly truly highlighted the wonderful efforts of our students this year, competing in a plethora of different events. I’m hoping that assemblies like this can inspire our JP years to continue our school’s high number of participations in SACPSSA and sporting events as they progress through their schooling.

I would like to firstly thank Hannah Reid for all the amazing work she put into Physical Education and Sports Coordination for most of this year. Her passion for sports and developing this passion for our students is an integral component of the school. I would also like to thank all the teachers and staff for assisting in each of our sporting events, bringing energy and enthusiasm to our aspiring athletes.

Finally, and most importantly I need to thank all of you. The parents/carers that sacrifice time and energy to help foster this love of physical activity in your children. Whether its volunteering to help with excursions, coaching teams, or even just being your child’s number 1 supporter in the crowd. This year's INTERCOL truly demonstrated this, where I was fortunate enough to witness just how excited our students were to have a crowd of family and friends supporting them as they took to the field/court. Without your support none of this is possible, and I look forward to continuing this journey in promoting sports and physical activity alongside you all next year!

Corey Tucker
P.E. Teacher and Sports Coordinator

Belgravia uniform store and website are both live now, and orders and fittings can be booked through the following link:

https://www.belgraviaapparelschools.com/pages/book-a-fitting

Belgravia are taking pre-orders instore and online until the stock arrives and all orders will be filled in January.

Yesterday, we had a successful Toasted Sandwich Fundraiser for Catholic Charities. Not only did we raise funds for a good cause, but we also had a term-long math teaching experience. Our students learned how to calculate the exact amount of each ingredient needed to create the perfect toasted sandwich, and how to make the correct amount of sandwiches. Bringing learning into practical, real-world contexts allows our students to stretch, grow, and deeply learn the curriculum while applying it to useful real-world tasks they can reproduce at home.
We would like to express our gratitude to Mrs Purdie for her leadership in making this fundraiser a success. Her guidance and dedication to our students' education have been invaluable.
Thank you for your support, and we look forward to more opportunities to engage our students in meaningful learning experiences.
 

As Christmas break approaches, it is important to take some time to relax and de-stress. With the holiday season comes a flurry of activities, from work to family commitments, social events, and taking care of children. Amidst this hustle and bustle, it is also a great opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones. Taking a moment to simply sit together, watch your children play, or engage in meaningful conversation can be incredibly beneficial.

Moreover, the holiday season is a time for reflection and personal growth. It is a time to process all the learning and experiences of the past year, and to focus on personal development. This applies to both children and adults, as we all have the opportunity to learn and grow from our experiences. It is also a great time to take a moment to appreciate the small things in life, such as the scent of flowers or the aroma of your first cup of coffee for the day. By doing so, you can help alleviate stress and find balance during this busy time of year.

With our blessing, St Raphael's School wishes you a joyous Christmas period and looks forward to a productive and fulfilling 2024.

We will be selling our cookbook in Term 1 and can't wait to welcome all our new families into our vibrant Parents and Friends Committee next year.

Katrina Tucker
Marketing and Communications Coordinator

Our friends at Kids In Adelaide have once again published their Christmas Lights Map. So if you want to drive/bus/walk around a few houses with excessive lights and feel a little Christmas cheer then take a look.

Also if you want your brightly lit house to be included on the map you are welcome to contact them.

This is the Christmas Lights page link: https://kidsinadelaide.com.au/best-christmas-lights-adelaide/