It Takes a Village to Raise a Child

There’s truth in the saying, “It takes a village to raise a child.” At St Stephen’s School, we know that respect is the foundation of a positive learning environment and a thriving community. Teaching respect is more than just setting classroom rules; it’s about modelling it in everyday interactions, both at school and at home.

Respect goes beyond good manners. It’s about valuing others, understanding boundaries, and appreciating differences. For our Primary School students, it means listening when others speak, showing kindness even when it’s hard, and understanding that every voice matters. It also includes treating teachers, staff, and adults with courtesy and consideration.

We understand this can be challenging, especially when children are exposed to disrespectful behaviour in media and public settings. When prominent figures display unkindness, it can send mixed messages to children still learning right from wrong. This is why it’s so important for us, as a community, to work together to instil strong values in our children.

Let’s continue to work together as a community to instil the values of respect and accountability in our young people. They are the leaders of the future, and the habits they form today will shape the world of tomorrow. Together, we can help them grow into compassionate, respectful individuals who understand the importance of valuing others.

Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership. Together, we are raising a community of kind, respectful, and responsible young people.

Madame Pilote            Mrs Langley               Mr Andrews

Disco

Children’s University

Complete the following mindful colouring page.  When you are finished, turn it over and write down five things you can do to be kind to yourself.

Bring it to me on Thursday morning before school in the Primary Forum and get 30 minutes stamped into your passport.

Dr Janelle Morris
Teacher – Science & Timetabler

Clubs Reminder and CFC Club Change of Day

A reminder that our after school clubs are starting this week. Please note that the Cards For Charity Club will now take place on Thursdays as many upper years students are already involved in our Peter Pan after school rehearsals and debating on Tuesdays. Please use the following link to book https://portal.ststephens.wa.edu.au/parent-and-student/plan-the-day/after-school-clubs.html

Sonshine FM – Heart for the Homeless Campaign

Items can be dropped into the Heart for the Homeless box in the Primary Forum between 8.00am and 4.00pm, Monday to Friday from Wednesday 30 April to Friday 23 May.

Wreath Making

2025 St Stephen’s School Foundation Event

The 2025 St Stephen’s School Foundation Event is here, Dancing at the Drill Hall. Enjoy a three-course meal, a five-hour drinks package and dance the night away while supporting a great cause.
Book now at https://events.humanitix.com/datdh

Cross Country Presentation Assembly

The Presentation Assembly (Yr2-12) will be held on Wednesday 14 May at 10.15am in the Sports Centre.

Miss Kaliah Nicol – Primary Physical Education Teacher

Term 2 After School Clubs

We are offering 4 after school clubs during Term 2. Bookings will open at 6.00pm this evening.

When booking, please remember to only register your child for activities available to their year group and only one club per child so that all students have an opportunity to join a club. 

CFC Club (Cards For Charity) (Year 4 to 6 students) – Tuesday

Scrappy Sculptures (Year 3 to 6 students) – Tuesday

After School Sports (Pre-Primary to Year 2 students) – Thursday

Drawing Club (Year 1 to 2 students) – Thursday

We are grateful to be able to offer after school clubs, recognising them as a privilege that enriches our students’ development and fosters a sense of community. Please be reminded that any negative behaviour may result in students being withdrawn from clubs to ensure a positive and respectful environment for all.

Use the following link to book https://portal.ststephens.wa.edu.au/parent-and-student/plan-the-day/after-school-clubs.html

From the Heart; a Leadership Reflection

Teaching kindness in a world that doesn’t always reward it

As parents and educators, we often remind our kids to “be kind.” It’s one of the first lessons we teach, right alongside saying “please,” “thank you,” and sharing toys. But as our children grow, they begin to notice that kindness isn’t always modelled or rewarded the way we hope.

It’s easy to fear or judge those who are different; whether in appearance, belief, or behaviour, especially when society often encourages dominance over empathy. In many spaces, aggression is mistaken for strength, and compassion is seen as weakness.

What are we telling our kids when we allow these values to take hold? That it’s better to win than to care. That tearing others down is a path to success. That kindness is optional, or naive. But we know differently. We see the quiet power of kindness every day: when a child includes someone who’s left out, comforts a friend in need, or speaks up for what’s right. These small acts grow into deep-rooted courage and character.

Kindness isn’t about avoiding conflict, it’s about choosing compassion, even when it’s difficult. It’s about staying true to our values without stepping on others.

And our kids are watching us. How we speak to others, how we treat people we disagree with, and how we respond in challenging moments matters. If we want our children to value kindness, we need to show them what it looks like, especially when it’s hard.

Let’s raise children who understand that true strength lies in empathy. Because in a world that doesn’t always reward kindness, choosing it anyway is the boldest thing we can do.

Thank you to our wonderful Mother’s Day Stall volunteers!

A heartfelt thank you to our amazing parent representatives and all the volunteers who helped make this year’s Mother’s Day Stall such a HUGE success! Thanks to their time, effort, and generous spirit, we raised approximately $2,000, which will go directly towards supporting next year’s Evening on The Green. What an incredible achievement!

More than the dollars raised, though, was the joy on our children’s faces. Watching them proudly choose a special gift for their mum was truly priceless. Their smiles said it all, what a beautiful memory they’ve made.

We hope all the mums feel the love and care wrapped up in those little gifts. You deserve every bit of it!

We are so lucky to be part of such a kind, generous, and supportive community. Thank you again for making this event so special. 

Our Mother’s Day raffle winners!

Congratulations to Matias Kopti (Pre-Primary) and Troy Hughes (Year 5) for winning lovely gifts for their mums in this year’s Mother’s Day raffle! We hope your mums enjoy these special surprises!

Term 2 After School Clubs

There will be a Special Edition Blog with details about Term 2 After School Clubs this Friday.

Icy Poles

A friendly reminder that icy poles will not be available for sale this week as our Captains are away on Camp.

Interhouse Cross Country Update – Tuesday 13 May

Would all Year 2 to 6 students please arrive at your class ready for the Interhouse Cross Country Carnival by 8.15am next Tuesday 13 May as we will be on a tight schedule.

Children’s University

I hope everyone enjoyed their holiday break and that there was some time to earn some hours towards the 2025 graduation event.

A reminder than passport stamping sessions are Thursday before school in the Primary Forum.

The following activity is from the CU portal – 150 second talent show challenge.

“Theatre artists are keen, creative and collaborative people who act, sing and dance whilst working hard to bring stories to life and entertain audiences. If this sounds like you, did you know you can study a Bachelor of Music Theatre?

Now it’s time to showcase your unique talents with a 150 second burst of creativity and fun. Think playing an instrument, sketching, karaoke, singing and dancing, magic moments or anything else that comes to mind.”

Record or write down the details of your talent show, let me know if 150 seconds longer or shorter than you imaged it would be? And design a flyer advertising your talent show to earn 1 hour towards your graduation.

2025 St Stephen’s School Foundation Event

The 2025 St Stephen’s School Foundation Event is here, Dancing at the Drill Hall. Enjoy a three-course meal, a five-hour drinks package and dance the night away while supporting a great cause.
Book now at https://events.humanitix.com/datdh

Welcome to Term 2! 

Dear Families

We hope you all enjoyed a wonderful Easter and a restful school holiday, filled with plenty of special family time. It’s hard to believe that Term 2 is already here, and we are so excited to welcome everyone back!

This term promises to be packed with fantastic learning opportunities and a host of special activities for our students. Highlights include the much-anticipated Camps for our Year 2, Year 4 and Year 6 students, Mother’s Day celebrations, our annual Cross-Country, the always popular Primary Disco, and of course, our incredible Arts & Academic Festival. Just to name a few!

Speaking of Mother’s Day, we are thrilled to share that our wonderful Mother’s Day Stall begins tomorrow! We would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the amazing parents who have volunteered their time and energy to organise this much-loved tradition once again. Your efforts mean so much to our school community, and we are so grateful.

We look forward to a successful, joyful, and enriching Term 2 for all our students and families. As always, our door is open if you need anything, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Wishing you all a wonderful start to the new term!

Madame Pilote                                  Mrs Langley                                         Mr Andrews

Mother’s Day Stall

After-School Clubs – Starting Week 3 

We’d like to let families know that After-School Clubs will begin in Week 3 this term. With some of our upper years students heading off to camp and preparations in full swing for the early years Mother’s Day celebrations, we’re giving a little extra time before launching our club sessions. Details about the available clubs and how to register will be shared in next week’s blog. We look forward to another great term of after-school activities!

Icy Poles are back this Friday! 

We’re pleased to let you know that icy poles will be on sale this Friday for $1 each, with all proceeds going to charity. Our School Captains are excited to kick off this fundraiser and support a great cause.

Please note that due to Year 6 Camp, there will be no icy pole sales on Friday 9 May, but they will return on Friday 16 May.

Thank you for your continued support!

CFC Club Raises $134 for Perth Children’s Hospital! 

We are thrilled to share that our CFC (Cards For Charity) After-School Club raised an incredible $134 last term through the sale of beautiful handmade cards, lovingly created by our talented students. Every dollar raised was donated to Perth Children’s Hospital, supporting children and families in need.

We can’t wait to get creative again this term when the club resumes, with more card-making, more fun, and more funds raised for a great cause. It’s a win-win: being artistic, enjoying time together, supporting charity, and living out our school’s core value of Service.

A huge congratulations to our young entrepreneurs with hearts of gold. Your kindness and creativity are truly inspiring!

Running Club

Welcome to Term 2!

All students in Kindy to Year 6 and their families are encouraged to join Miss Nicol, Mrs Bartels and Mr Simms on the Primary Green every Thursday morning to run as many laps around the Green as you can! First run club will start week 3 (Thursday the 15 May). No matter what your ability is, come on down to earn House points, improve your fitness, build your confidence and run your way towards a healthier lifestyle. Each participating individual will be given their own Running Club lapathon card to count their laps every week. Runners will earn 1 Running Club House Point for every lap they complete around the Primary Green. Running Club lapathon cards must be put into the “finish bin” after each session.

We will meet on the Primary Green every THURSDAY morning from 8.00am – 8.25am. Everyone is welcome – you do not need to sign up to participate in this club. Run at your own pace and come and go as you please. Parents/guardians and younger siblings are encouraged to join in too.

Students – come dressed in your sport uniform or normal school uniform and running shoes. Students who do not have PE on a Thursday will need to change into their formal school uniform/shoes after running club.

OSH CLUB RUNNERS
Students who attend OSH Club on Thursday morning are welcome to come along to Running Club too. Please advise the OSH staff if your child would like to attend running club and a staff member will walk them to our club on the green. Thank you.

Any questions please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Miss Kaliah Nicol – Primary Physical Education Teacher

Primary Interhouse Cross Country Carnival

The St Stephen’s Carramar K – 12 Interhouse Cross Country Carnival will be taking place on Tuesday 13 May (Week 3, Term 2). The event will run from 8.40am – 10.45am on the school oval. Classes will resume as normal after recess time. Students in Kindy – Year 1 will participate in a Lapathon run in a special sectioned off boundary area on the oval. Students in Year 2 – 6 will participate in different Cross Country distances, along with some fun, non-competitive team games on the oval. Please see the details below: 

Date: Tuesday the 13 May (Week 3, Term 2)

Time: 8.30am – 10.45am
Students in Year 2 – 6 need to arrive at school no later than 8.25am.  

Location: St Stephen’s School Carramar – Oval

What to Wear/Bring: 

• House Uniform
• Appropriate sports shoes
• Clearly labelled St Stephen’s School hat

• Clearly labelled water bottle
• Asthma inhaler if required

K – 1 LAPATHON:

Our Kindy, Pre-Primary and Year 1 students will be involved in a lapathon in their own sectioned off area on the oval. The lapathon will commence at approximately 9.15am.

Year 2 – 12 CROSS COUNTRY:

Spectators

Families are welcome and encouraged to spectate this event but must not interfere with any of the races and activities on the oval. We look forward to seeing you all at this exciting carnival!

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS… 

Can I spectate this event? 

Parents/guardians and family members are welcome and encouraged to spectate the K-12 Cross Country Carnival. There will be a designated spectating areas on the oval for families. We kindly ask that spectators do not interfere with students and staff on the finish line or in their activities on the oval. Please remain behind the flags in the designated spectating areas.  

Can I take photos/videos at the Cross Country Carnival? 

Parents/guardians may take photo or video recordings of their own child/children (provided other students are not identifiable and the images are not shared on social media). No photo or video recording is to be used as evidence for results or appeal. Disputing with officials sets a poor example for children and undermines the spirit of fair play.  

When is the Interschool Cross Country Carnival?  

The Year 2 – 6 NIPSSA Interschool Cross Country Carnival will take place on Friday the 20 June. The Interschool Cross Country Team will be selected from the results at our Interhouse Carnival. More information about the carnival will be sent out via Consent2Go once the team has been selected.

When is the Presentation Assembly?

The Presentation Assembly (Yr2-12) will be held on Wednesday 14 May at 10.15am in the Sports Centre.

If you have any further questions about the upcoming Primary Interhouse Cross Country Carnival, please don’t hesitate to contact me via email at kaliah.nicol@ststephens.wa.edu.au. We thank you for your support and look forward to seeing your children run at our Primary Interhouse Cross Country Carnival!

Miss Kaliah Nicol – Primary Physical Education Teacher

Scholastic Book Club Orders

The last day for Issue 3 Book Club ordering is Tuesday 13 May.

Primary Disco – Friday 23 May

Sonshine FM – Heart for the Homeless Campaign

Items can be dropped into the Heart for the Homeless box in the Primary Forum between 8.00am and 4.00pm, Monday to Friday from Wednesday 30 April to Friday 23 May.

Arts & Academic Festival 2025

From the Heart; a Leadership Reflection

Navigating Friendship Ups and Downs 

Friendships are a vital part of a child’s school experience, offering joy, companionship and social growth. However, they also come with ups and downs; disagreements, misunderstandings and feelings of exclusion are all part of learning how to navigate relationships.

When your child comes home upset about a friendship issue, it’s important to remember that they are sharing their perception of the situation. As with any conflict, there are always two sides to the story. Encouraging your child to consider different perspectives helps them develop empathy, problem-solving skills, and resilience.

In today’s culture, the idea of having a “Best Friend Forever” (BFF) is celebrated. While close friendships are special, this mindset can sometimes lead to exclusivity, jealousy and possessiveness. At school, we consistently reinforce the message that friendships should be open and inclusive. No one “belongs” to anyone and while it’s natural to have closer friends, it’s equally important to be friendly with everyone.

Friendship issues are a normal part of growing up. By staying objective and guiding children through these moments, we help them build the resilience and kindness needed for lifelong healthy relationships. Let’s work together to support positive, inclusive friendships!

Easter Meal Deal

Children University

Children’s University

I was looking on the CU portal at what online activities they had under the Food and Cooking tab and found an activity on National Hot Chocolate Day!  I didn’t even know there was a National Hot Chocolate Day but there is and it was on 31 January.  Two months late, but not too late to participate in the CU activity and earn yourself one hour towards graduation.  Below is the activity that CU posted on the portal.

National Hot Chocolate Day @ CU

Ok so it may be hot chocolate day all over the world but over this side of the world we need it a bit more chill. Let’s have a cold chocolate milkshake instead!

Try this activity – your goal is to create a delicious chocolate milkshake and name your creation.

Ingredients

Milk, ice-cream, chocolate or whatever you like really – you get to decide quantities!

You might use a blender, or you could combine and froth by hand (well, with a whisk), your choice. Remember to write down the steps and ingredients you use. If you make the best milkshake ever you’ll definitely want to recreate it!

You can then try different toppings – sprinkles, chocolate, cherries, whatever you want to experiment with.

When you have finished take a photo of your creation and give your drink a name.  Bring the photo in to show me at one of our passport stamping sessions – Thursday mornings in the Primary Forum.

Dr Janelle Morris

Mother’s Day Stall

Cards for Charity Sale!

This term, our talented students in the Cards for Charity (CFC) after-school club have been hard at work, using their creativity and dedication to make a difference. They have spent countless hours designing and crafting beautiful handmade cards, all in support of Perth Children’s Hospital.

We are excited to announce that these heartfelt creations will be on sale on Tuesday and Wednesday, 8 and 9 April, during Recess in the Primary Forum. Each card is just $2 and every dollar raised will go directly to Perth Children’s Hospital.

By purchasing a card, students not only support our students’ hard work but also contribute to a meaningful cause. So come along, pick up a card (or a few!) and spread kindness while making a real impact.

Let’s show our support for our young changemakers and their incredible efforts!

Easter Raffle – FINAL REMINDER!

The Primary Captains are hosting an Easter Raffle and you have the chance to win a basket full of delicious Easter treats, kindly donated by Mrs Sabine Winton!

It’s super easy to enter:

1. Visit the Primary Forum before school TOMORROW (final day!) between 8:15am and 8:30am to grab your $2 ticket.
2. Keep your fingers crossed for a chance to win!

All funds raised will be donated to the Melanoma Institute Australia. The winner will be drawn at the Year 2 Assembly this Friday 4 April. Good luck!

WEEK 9 Running Club

House Points: (drum roll please…)

Congratulations to PARRESIA for running the most laps in Week 9!

100 Laps Running Club

Congratulations to Caileigh Van Deventer (Year 3) for completing 300 laps on her running club card. Congratulations to Louise Hughes (parent) for completing 200 laps on her running club card. Well done!

REMINDER: There will be no running club this week (Week 10) due to teachers being on camp. Looking forward to seeing everyone in Week 11 for our last running club of the term!

Art Competition

Creative Kids Art Club

From the Heart; a Leadership Reflection

Celebrating Harmony Day 

Harmony Day is a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from embracing diversity and fostering inclusivity. It is a day to celebrate the many cultures that make up our community and to reflect on the importance of respect, belonging, and understanding.

Our students engaged in meaningful activities throughout the day last Friday. Through thoughtful discussions and group activities, they reflected on what it means to be inclusive, kind, and accepting of others. The connections formed during our buddy session at the end of the day reinforced the value of unity, reminding us that, regardless of our backgrounds, we all belong. It was heartwarming to witness students’ enthusiasm and deep appreciation for the diversity around them.

Thank you to our staff and students for embracing the spirit of Harmony Day with such enthusiasm and care. Let’s continue to celebrate and practise these values every day!

Madame Pilote           Mrs Langley                Mr Andrews

Children’s University

All students should now have their passports.  Thank you for your patience while they arrived.  I hope everyone has managed to log on to the portal and find some interesting things to learn.  Now might be a good time to explore what else is on the portal and find a learning destination to visit during the upcoming holiday break.

Here is an activity I found from the Australian Sports Museum on the portal that I thought was interesting.  Feel free to give this one a try and bring your booklet and evidence in for me see – 1 hour for each activity you do!

Australian Sports Museum

STEPS:

1. Download this booklet or see the attachment.
2. Read the instructions for each activity and complete those that you like.
3. Receive a 1 hour stamp for each activity you complete (possible 5 hours if you complete all the activities).
4. Submit completed booklet/activities to your coordinator.

I hope you all find the joy in learning 😊

Easter Meal Deal

Mother’s Day Stall

Crazy Hair Day

Cards for Charity Sale!

This term, our talented students in the Cards for Charity (CFC) after-school club have been working hard, using their creativity and dedication to make a difference. They have spent countless hours designing and crafting beautiful handmade cards, all in support of a great cause!

We are excited to announce that these heartfelt creations will be on sale on Tuesday and Wednesday, 8 & 9 April, during Recess in the Primary Forum. Each card is just $2, and every dollar raised will go directly to charity.

By purchasing a card, students not only support our students’ hard work but also contribute to a meaningful cause. So, come along, pick up a card (or a few!), and spread kindness while making a real impact.

Let’s show our support for our young changemakers and their incredible efforts! 

Easter Raffle – Win a Basket of Treats!

 The Primary Captains are hosting an Easter Raffle and you have the chance to win a basket full of delicious Easter treats, kindly donated by Mrs Sabine Winton!

It’s super easy to enter:

1) ‎Visit the Primary Forum any morning before school (between 8:15am and 8:30am) from Thursday 27 March to Wednesday 2 April inclusive to

grab your $2 ticket.

2) Keep your fingers crossed for a chance to win!

All the money raised will go towards the Semester 1 Captains chosen charity. The winner will be drawn at the Year 2 Assembly on Friday 4 April. Good luck!

Running Club

Week 8 House Points – (drum roll please…)

Congratulations to PARRESIA for running the

most laps in Week 8!

100 LAPS RUNNING CLUB

Congratulations to Evan Sutcliffe (Year 2) and Naisha Kasad (Year 2) for completing 100 laps on their running club card! Congratulations Aiden Kilian (Year 6) for completing 500 laps on his running club card! Well done everyone!

Please note, there will be no Running Club Thursday Week 10 due to staff members being on camp. Looking forward to seeing everyone running week 11 for our last running club of the term!

Art Competition

Parent Series – Hot Topics

Carramar Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/cht2025-t1

Duncraig Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/dht2025-t1

A message from our Primary captains

From the Heart; a Leadership Reflection

Service in action; Year 6 students shine at Regents Garden 

In last week’s blog, we explored “Service” as one of our school’s core values. This week, our Year 6 students brought this value to life through a meaningful service learning experience at Regents Garden.

During their visit, students connected with residents through word games, demonstrating kindness, patience and a genuine desire to engage. Their thoughtful approach created a warm and joyful atmosphere, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved.

This opportunity allowed students to put teamwork and empathy into practice. They supported each other, adapted to the needs of the residents and built connections that deepened their understanding of what it truly means to serve others.

We couldn’t be prouder of our Year 6 students. Their impeccable manners, respect and attentiveness embodied the very essence of our school’s values. The smiles they brought to the residents and staff were a testament to their compassionate hearts and willingness to give back to the community.

Inspired by their experience, many of our students have expressed a desire to return and continue their service. We encourage families to find ways to engage in volunteering together. Whether big or small, these acts of kindness help build empathy, strengthen family bonds and create a culture of care within our broader community.

Yours in service

Madame Pilote       Mrs Langley             Mr Andrews

Harmony Day

We will be celebrating Harmony Day on Friday 21 March. Students are encouraged to wear an orange t-shirt on the day. This is not a fundraising event, it’s a day where we are reminded of the importance of cultural diversity. A very special buddy session will be held in the afternoon and we look forward to sharing some pictures of the event with our community soon.

Congratulations to our swimmers!

A huge congratulations to all Year 3 to 6 swimmers for their outstanding efforts and contribution to the success of our 2025 Swimming Carnival! Your dedication, sportsmanship, and team spirit were truly commendable.

A special congratulations to Parresia, this year’s champion, who proudly received the Swimming Shield at our Assembly last Friday.

Running Club

WEEK 7 Running Club House Points: (drum roll please…)

Congratulations to PARRESIA for running the most laps in Week 7!

100 LAPS RUNNING CLUB

Congratulations to Kobie Georgel (year 3) Ekam Mahal (year 1) for completing 100 laps on their running club card! Congratulations to Elsie Shaw (year 5) for completing 400 laps on her running club card! Outstanding effort and commitment to Bernard Streeter (year 2) for completing 600 laps on his running club card! Well done everyone

Children’s University

We have another full program this year with no more available spots for 2025.  It is great to see so many keen learners in our community.

I hope to have the passports to new students this week.

Please see below one of the online learning activities from the CU portal.  This one is inspired by Harmony Day.

Complete these Harmony Day Activities.

Each Activity is worth 30mins.

1. Learn to say hello in 7 different languages

Write down the language and how they say hello.  Bring it in to show me.

1. Bake a cake

Cake is the harmonious result of mixing different ingredients together.
Create your harmony day cake and bring me a photo.

1. Aussie Art

Choose and Australian artist, what techniques do they use from different cultures eg. dot painting, batik, mosaics, origami. Write down your findings.

1. Create a Harmony Day Poster

Maybe you could use one of the art techniques you learned about in the Art activity.  Bring in your poster to show me.

1. Dinner Time

Plan a menu for your household. What dishes would you serve? Are they from your cultural background or a different one? Write down your menu to show me.

1. Take a walk

Note down how many local buildings have design features that have been inspired by different cultures. Which feature is your favourite? Why?  Take a photo to show me.