Newsletter
Thursday
Term 4 Week 6
13th November
2014
Principal’s Message
Staffing 2015
The allocation of teachers to classes for 2015 has now been finalised:
 Prep G Mrs Helen Myers
 Prep Y Mrs Sue Hayes
 Prep R Ms Halena Wilkinson
 1G Mrs Liane Buckland
 1Y Miss Ally Shipp
 2G Ms Rachel Miles
 2Y Mrs Sharnee Heibloem / Mrs Rebecca Dalton (Job Share)
 3G Miss Amy Mills
 3Y Mrs Melissa Lucas
 4G Mr Brendan Costin
 4Y Mrs Anita Maher
 5G Mrs Kaye Carr / Mr David Stewart (Job Share)
 6G Mr Michael O’Rourke
The vast majority of these teachers are well known to our community. Joining or re-joining our teaching staff in
2015 are:
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Mrs Sharnee Heibloem and Mrs Rebecca Dalton both returning from Maternity Leave
Mr David Stewart – David is new to our staff. He is a very experienced teacher with significant leadership
experience in schools including various roles as Principal. We look forward to welcoming David, who will be
a tremendous addition to our staff.
As per last week’s newsletter:
Given my experience in a variety of school settings and based on feedback from BCE Education Officers, I can assure you that the quality of our staff is exceptional. Appointing teaching teams to the various year levels is quite a
complex task. Of greater complexity is the allocation of students to classes for each year. Many hours of deliberation goes towards finalising groupings. Teachers use their extensive knowledge of each individual to create the
best learning environment for all. If there are any specific educational issues you would like a teacher to consider
in these deliberations, these should be put in writing to the class teacher (or the Principal).
Whilst no promises can be made I can assure you they will be considered. I have had the experience previously
when one parent requested their child be placed with a particular student and the other parent requested they be
separated. Not everything is possible and we were not able to give a full explanation to the parent as to why their
request was not accommodated as this would have affected a family friendship. We ask you to trust us through this
process. “Teacher shopping” is not appropriate.
We have amazing teachers across our year levels, all with different strengths and styles. Students will experience
teachers of all different personalities and styles across the time of their schooling. Pigeonholing teachers or listening to rumour may stifle the rich variety of teaching methodology that your child should experience.
Classes will be finalised within the next two weeks, ready for announcement on Thursday Dec 4.
Continued …….
Address: Apperley Street, Banyo Qld 4014
Phone: 07 3267 7306
Fax: 07 3267 1217
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.stpiusbanyo.qld.edu.au
Banyo-Nundah Catholic Parish: Ph: 3266 1444 Fax: 3266 4088 Office: 20 Donkin Street, Nundah
Principal’s Message
Volunteers Morning Tea
This morning we paid tribute to the amazing volunteers we are fortunate
to have within our school. A small group represented the huge numbers
of generous parents and friends of our community who give selflessly of
their time so that our students have additional opportunities. For me it is
the special relationship that exits between parents, students and staff
that makes St Pius the incredible place it is. Thanks to all who have helped
us out in the multitude of ways this year. For some it marks the end of an
era as they move on to high school next year. St Pius is richer for your
kindness and support.
Thanks to Natalie Grech who provided the beautiful catering for the morning and to
the choir and instrumental students who provided the entertainment.
Parking and Pick Up
Thanks to the parents who have complied with the parking and pick up protocols following concerns outlined in recent newsletters. Please be reminded that the driveway
to the library (from Apperley St) is not a safe place to pick up students. Please refrain from picking up students in
this driveway.
Reminders
Booklists:
These were due to be returned to Banyo Newsagency two weeks ago. If orders are not placed by the end of next
week, the books will not be available for the beginning of next year.
Medical Action Plans:
Any student who has medication stored in the school office should collect this medication prior to the end of school.
Any medication still in the office on the last day will be placed in a bag and sent home with the student. A reminder
that medical action plans need to be reviewed and provided to the school annually.
Accounts:
Term 4 accounts are now significantly overdue. Please finalise these accounts as soon as possible.
Term 4
Upcoming events:
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Music performance night (18th Nov)
P&F meeting (19th Nov)
Yr 5 Camp (20/21st Nov)
Yr 1 (2015) 1-1 Parent information evening (Week 8)
Pastoral Care meeting (25th Nov)
Board / P&F Exec dinner (26th Nov)
Family Christmas Picnic (29th Nov 4pm-6pm)
Christmas Concert (3rd Dec – 9:15am)
Reports sent home (3rd Dec )
Yr 6/7 Grad (3rd Dec)
2015 Classes announced (4th Dec)
School Concludes (5th Dec at12pm)
Best Wishes for the long weekend and the rest of the term.
Peter
APRE’s Message
A Prayer for our Volunteers
God of generosity, bless our volunteers with abundance
and joy.
Holy Spirit of energy, bless our volunteers with enthusiasm
and motivation.
Jesus, loving Son, bless our volunteers with strong hearts
of love.
Volunteers’ Morning Tea
Today we acknowledged and thanked our very special, generous
volunteers. These parents, grandparents and community members
selflessly give of their time to assist with the various activities that
make our school run efficiently. Our lovely volunteers were treated
to a delicious morning tea catered by Natalie and entertained by
our choir and instrumental ensemble.
To our many volunteers, thank you from the bottom of our hearts
for your contribution to our great school. God bless you all!
St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal
Next Monday, on assembly, we will launch our annual St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal.
Each child is asked to bring in a gold coin, or more, to add to their class’ collection gift box. All
monies must be in by Friday, 28th November (week 8).
We will present a cheque to a representative from the Banyo St Vincent de Paul
Chapter during our final liturgy on Friday, 5 th December. Remember to dig deep to
help a local family enjoy the Christmas season.
Music Concert
Next Tuesday evening, 18th November at 6pm, St Pius will hold its Annual Music Performance Night in the hall. This evening is a show case of
our very talented instrumental students who learn an instrument through
the Joy Dawson music company. We thank Mrs Dawson and her instrumental music teachers Louise Fossa, Matthew Hobbs and Bryn Samuel
for the expertise and time they put into each lesson.
NB Parents are welcomed to enrol their child from Year 2 into the instrumental program
run by Joy Dawson’s company, JD Music. From 2015 students new to the program can
only enrol in instrumental lessons from Year 2.
Blessing Kim
Choir News
Thank you to all the choir students and the Instrumental students who performed at the Volunteers’ Morning
Tea this morning. You were amazing.
Performing Arts Night
Performing Arts Night is next Tuesday, 18th November in the School Hall starting at 6pm. Instrumental teachers have given out notes this week letting you know the piece your child is playing for the concert. Please fill
in the form and return it to the front office.
I am looking forward to hearing some beautiful music.
Band News
The school band will be going to the Band Spectacular next Wednesday, 19th November at St. Joseph's,
Bracken Ridge. Performance is at 1.15pm if you would like to come along.
Instrumental News
All school instruments are to be returned to the Music Department by Tuesday, 2nd December.
Joy Dawson
Music Teacher, Instrumental Coordinator
Sports News
Water Polo Queensland
Yesterday, Heather came out from Water Polo Queensland to our school to teach us some water polo
skills. We learnt how to catch and throw a ball with one hand, shoot goals and play mini games. Water polo is a fun and interactive sport to play.
Thank you Mr B for organising a great water polo session for all of us.
We had so much fun!!!
Classroom News
3Y have been very busy over the past couple of weeks following procedures. We
have just completed sewing our beautiful Christmas decorations, filled with lots of
fluff and love. We have also made and tested our Gluten Free Rocky Road, filled
with gluten free snakes, mini marshmallows, popping candy and HEAPS of chocolate. Yummy!
Yr 1 and Yr 2
SPLASH & SWIM
On Friday, 28th November
8.40am to 10.30am
at St Pius School Pool
Parents are welcome to come and watch the
races and pool games at the splash and swim morning.
P&F Message
Final P&F Meeting for 2014
Wednesday, 19th November
7pm
The AGM
will be held in February 2015
date TBA
If you are interested in getting involved in
the school’s P&F, please nominate for the
positions of:
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President
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Vice president,
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Secretary
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Treasurer
Nomination forms for P&F positions are
available at the school office.
School Uniforms
All St Pius School uniforms including hats
and bags are sold at Lowes Toombul
Please name ALL of your child’s items
Please check Lost Property regularly
for forgotten and lost items.
St Pius Swimming Caps are available from
the school office for $8 each
(COMPUSLORY)
Tuckshop
No tuckshop this week
Helpers are always needed and welcome if
you can spare some time on Fridays.
Please order by THURSDAY
unless you are away sick.
If ordering Friday we ask that you only order cold
food at first break (no toasted or hot rolls).
Annual St Pius
Christmas Picnic
on the oval
Saturday
29th November
4pm to 6pm
BYO
nibbles, drinks,
blanket and
picnic chairs
Yoghurts $1, banana, strawberry, vanilla.
Cheerios - hot or cold, 4 for $2.50
Volunteers needed
please call Theresa Appelton on 0407 115 662
Free Lunch Competition
Have your lunch order in on Thursday and
your name will go into a draw each week.
2 winners will be drawn each Thursday to
enjoy tuckshop lunch for free on Friday.
Free Lunch Competition
Winners announced on awards
page No 7 next week
STUDENT
AWARDS
Prep G - Akshara Ganesh
Prep Y - Ayla Hill
Year 1G - All Yr 1G
Year 1Y - Oliver Handford
Year 2G - Ava Parry & Thomas Deakin
Year 2Y - Maya Floyd & Rhys Jenkins
Year 3G - Max Vanden Bergh & Theresa Do-Dam
Year 3Y - Chayce Bailey
Year 4G - Cooper Groves
Year 4Y - Oscar Govenlock
Awards will be
present at
Year 5G - Samuel Waugh
assembly on
Year 6/7G - Lara Madden
17th November
Monday
PE Class - Yr 3Y
Art Class - Yr 5G
Music Class - Yr 4Y
All Welcome
No tuckshop awards this week
Helpful Parent Reminders
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We are a NO NUT school as we have children with all different types of nut allergies.
2015 Booklists - forms due into the Banyo Newsagency now.
School Fees for Term 4 are due to be paid.
School Swimming classes Friday for Years 3, 2, 1 and Preps (reminder to wear sunscreen).
School Swimming classes Monday for Years 4, 5 and 6/7 (reminder to wear sunscreen).
Students to bring for swimming lessons: costume, swimming cap, goggles, towel, rash shirt, thongs/sandals
(to walk to and from the pool) sunscreen (this could be applied before school).
All Yr 1 to Yr7 competent swimmers only, free swimming is at Monday lunch time 1.20pm to 1.40pm - parent volunteers are required.
St Pius swimming caps available for sale in the office for $8 each (compulsory).
Qualified Swimming contact - Rae 0411 862 441 (for swimming lessons).
Banyo Community Swimming Club contact Gary Kehl 0401 820 231 (flyer on page 7).
All St Pius School uniforms are sold at LOWES Toombul including hats and bags.
If you are not receiving the weekly newsletter or the school fees each term please notify the school office
ASAP to have your email address updated.
All phone number address email changes please notify the school office by email to update ASAP on
[email protected].
No hat no play policy.
Please send spoons with snacks and lunches when required.
When your child receives sacraments in Reconciliation, Eucharist and Confirmation in the Catholic Faith
please send a copy to the school office to update information.
Direct Deposit forms for school fees are to be completed each year, available now for 2015
Volunteer forms for parent and grandparent helpers are to be completed each year.
Upcoming Dates...
Friday 14th November
G20 Public Holiday
Monday 17th November
Baby Blessing Assembly
Swimming classes Yr 4 to 6/7 (apply sunscreen at home)
Yr 1-7 free swimming at lunch 1.20pm (parent volunteers needed)
Tuesday 18th November
Performing Arts Night from 6pm in the school hall
Wednesday 19th November
Mass Yr 4
Year 4 excursion to Ripleys, Gold Coast
Band Spectacular at St Josephs Bracken Ridge 9am to 2pm
(performance at 1.15pm)
P&F meeting 7pm
Thursday 20th—Friday 21st Nov Yr 5 Camp Warawee, Joyner
Friday 21st November
Swimming classes Yr 4 to Yr 6/7 (apply sunscreen at home)
Monday 24th November
Assembly Yr 5
Swimming classes Prep to Yr 3 (apply sunscreen at home)
Yr 1-7 free swimming at lunch 1.20pm (parent volunteers needed)
Tuesday 25th November
Pastoral Care Meeting
Wednesday 26th November
Mass Yr 6/7
Prep excursion Twelfth night theatre- An Australian Bush Christmas
Board and Exec P&F Dinner
Thursday 27th November
2015 Book packs arrive into students current classrooms
Parish Finance meeting
BANYO COMMUNITY SWIM CLUB
St Pius School Pool Redhill Road entrance
Come along and see how much fun it is. We are a friendly, relaxed swim club the whole
family can enjoy.
You don’t need to be a super fast swimmer. Points are based on improving your own
times.
We offer half length races and the not so confident competitors have a competent swimmer
in the lane with them at all times. All ages and standards are welcome.
Cost is $35 per swimmer or $70 per family for the season.
More information please contact Gary Kehl on 0401 820 231
St Pius Playgroup
Under 5s
Every Friday
during school term
8.30am to 10.30am
in the school hall,
$1 per week,
including tea & coffee
Final program for
2014! Limited
places available.
Resilience Skills for a
Happy Life!
Confident Kids ® + teens is a fun and innovative coaching program for kids 5-14yrs
that aims to boost
confidence, emotional resilience, social
skills and brain power. Students discover
their strengths, and develop resilient thinking skills to reduce stress, anxiety, worry, or
negative thinking.
Essential tools to navigate the teen years!
Our team of experienced Psychologists will
coach, encourage and support your child to
be all they can be! Medicare and private
health fund rebates apply.
Register and book online today at confidentkidsandteens.com.au Or contact us at
[email protected] for more details. Groups held at our Kelvin Grove clinic.
Co-ordinator:
Angela Wilcox
Mobile
0432 835 536
PRECISION PILATES
PILATES - Pilates strengthens the stabilizers of the spine, pelvis and shoulders through mat based abdominal
exercises to improve coordination, posture and rehabilitate injuries. The breathing techniques will help improve stamina and promote relaxation.
Benefits:
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Improve posture and coordination
Increase flexibility, tone and strengthen
Increase lung capacity
Core stability and balance
Reduce stress and fatigue
Reduce low back pain
Helps to flatten abdominals
Less time off work due to injury/illness
When: Thursday 7.30 – 8.30am @ Nudgee Beach Rev, meeting on basketball court
Friday 6 – 7am @ Banyo Memorial Park, meeting at Rotunda
Come and give it a go!
YEAR 1 STUDENTS WANTED
These classes are provided FREE by Brisbane City
to take part in an exciting research project
Council
investigating the early development of
literacy and numeracy skills
Sharon Shepherd
Advanced Pilates Instructor, Diploma Fitness,
M: 0439 996 049 E: [email protected]
Do you have a child between
2 and 10 years old?
If “Yes”, share your parenting experiences
Researchers at the University of Queensland
invite you to participate in a cross-cultural
parenting study involving parents residing in
Australia and Indonesia. Share your parenting
experiences by completing an online survey at
the website: http://psy.uq.edu.au/par
For further information, please check the
website or contact Agnes Sumargi at (07)
33656207,
e-mail: [email protected].
A team of researchers at The University of Queensland is
seeking Year 1 students to participate in a study that aims to
investigate how early literacy learners process sounds and
numbers. Each student will be asked to complete some
listening, speaking, and reading activities that are similar to
tasks the students will have performed at school and two
simple computerized tasks involving deciding whether two
words rhyme and which of two numbers is the larger. The
computerized tasks will be completed while the student is in
a MRI scanner so that we can record how the student’s brain
processes the information. This is a very safe procedure with
all students being carefully screened beforehand to ensure
their suitability. All assessments can be undertaken outside
of school hours either at the student’s home or at The University of Queensland. At the completion of testing, each
student will receive a $20 book voucher and a picture of their
brain. Their parents will receive a brief written report of their
child’s test results and $50 to reimburse them for any travelling expenses. The children may not benefit directly from the
results of this study, however, the study will contribute to
our understanding of the language processing difficulties that
result in reading and numeracy problems. Your child’s participation in this study is totally voluntary and
he/she may withdraw at any time. If you
would like further information, please
contact the principal researcher, Dr Wendy
Arnott, on (07) 3365 9725, or email
[email protected].
Do you have a daughter who is due to
commence Year 7 in 2018?
Mount Alvernia College is currently accepting Applications for Enrolment for this
year level. Closing date for Applications is 8 February 2015.
It is important that you lodge your application by the due
date to be considered in first round offers. Second
round offers are made subject to availability.
Enrolment Forms are available via email request from
the Mount Alvernia College website www.mta.qld.edu.au
or can be collected from the School Office. Please contact our Enrolments Officer Jodi Walsh on Ph: 3632
8508 for any further information.