From the Heart; a Leadership Reflection

The importance of developing empathy in young people

At St Stephen’s School, we believe that fostering empathy in our students is essential in shaping them into compassionate, respectful and responsible individuals. Empathy is a skill that not only strengthens relationships but also builds a sense of community and belonging.

One of our core school values, Service, is deeply connected to this concept. When students engage in acts of service, whether within the school or in the wider community, they learn to step into someone else’s shoes, recognise different perspectives and develop a genuine desire to help others. Through service, empathy becomes more than just an idea, it transforms into action.

Developing empathy is a shared responsibility between home and school. Parents play a vital role in nurturing this quality by encouraging kindness, modelling respectful behaviour and discussing real-world issues with their children in an age-appropriate way. Simple daily interactions, such as asking a child how their friend might feel in a certain situation or encouraging them to help a sibling, lay the foundation for empathy to grow.

Together, as educators and parents, we have the privilege and responsibility of shaping young people into well-rounded, caring citizens of the future. By reinforcing the value of service and encouraging empathy in all aspects of life, we can create a generation that not only understands the importance of compassion but also actively contributes to making the world a better place.

Thank you for your continued support in helping our students develop into kind-hearted, socially responsible individuals.

Madame Pilote      Mrs Langley       Mr Andrews

Early Years Worship next week (Week 8)

Please be advised that due to NAPLAN testing, Early Years Worship will not take place next Monday morning. Our Year 3 and 5 students will be completing a portion of their NAPLAN assessments at that time, and maintaining silence in the Primary Forum area is essential to ensure optimal examination conditions. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

WEEK 6 Running Club

House Points: (drum roll please…)

Congratulations to PARRESIA for running the most laps in Week 6!

100 LAPS RUNNING CLUB

Congratulations to Tanya Kasad (year 5), Yashni Hirani (year 3) Harper Bryne (year 4) Rowan Couto (year 4) for completing 100 laps on their running club card! Congratulations to Daniel Wei (year 3) and Jamie Muir (year 2) for completing 200 laps on their running club cards! Outstanding effort and commitment to Caleigh Schoeman (year 3) for completing 700 laps on her running club card! Well done everyone!

Children’s University

Welcome to all the existing and new students to the program for 2025.  Now that the registration process for this year should be complete, I am hoping the passports will arrive for new students in the next few weeks.  In the meantime, here is an idea posted on the CU portal to get you started.

International Polar Bear Day

Create your own fluffy polar bear face! On a paper plate, use cotton balls, black and white paper, and textas to make a cute polar bear. Glue the cotton balls to the plate for the bear’s fur, and use the paper and textas, or any other items you have to add eyes, nose, and mouth.

Remember to bring your final creation to me at a passport stamping session to earn yourself 1 hour.  Stamping sessions are every Thursday morning in the primary forum.

Harmony Day 2025

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.

Lost Property

The below items are looking for their owner.

Makaria polo top – size 8c

Parresia polo top – size 12c

School shorts – size 6c

Pink jacket – size 7

A reminder to please remember to put your child’s name on ALL items that they bring to school.

Lost property is located just inside the Reception Office entrance (from the Primary Forum).

Auskick

Developing teamwork and collaboration in children

As our senior students are preparing for the Interhouse Swimming Carnival tomorrow, we would like to take a moment to reflect on the essential life skills of teamwork and collaboration.

Learning to work well with others teaches kids communication, empathy, problem-solving, and leadership skills. Here are some ways we can encourage teamwork and collaboration in children, both at school and at home.

1. Encourage group activities

One of the best ways for children to develop teamwork is by engaging in group activities. Sports teams, drama clubs, and group projects at school all require children to work together toward a common goal. At home, board games, puzzles, and family projects can provide similar opportunities.

2. Teach effective communication

Good teamwork starts with clear and respectful communication. Encourage children to express their thoughts, listen to others, and ask for help when needed. Practising “I” statements (e.g., “I feel happy when we work together”) can help children learn how to communicate effectively without conflict.

3. Promote problem-solving together

Encourage children to solve problems collaboratively rather than individually. When challenges arise (whether it’s a disagreement with a friend or a tough homework) guide them to work together to find a solution rather than jumping in to fix the issue for them.

4. Model teamwork as adults

Children learn by example, so it’s important for parents and educators to model collaboration in their own actions. When they see adults working together (whether at school, in the community, or within the family) they begin to understand the value of teamwork.

5. Encourage a growth mindset

Collaboration is not always easy, and conflicts can arise. Teaching children that mistakes and disagreements are learning opportunities helps them build resilience and the ability to work through challenges with others.

At our school, we continuously foster teamwork in students through collaborative learning experiences, buddy programs, and leadership opportunities. We encourage parents to support these efforts at home by providing children with opportunities to work together, communicate effectively, and develop empathy.

Together, we can help raise children who not only work well with others but also lead with kindness and cooperation.

The Primary Leadership Team

Year 3 – 6 Interhouse Swimming Carnival – Important

Students must arrive at School no later than 8.10am tomorrow to meet their teacher outside their classroom.

Year 3 – 6 Interhouse Swimming Carnival Presentation

Please note that our 2025 Interhouse Swimming Carnival medals’ presentation will be held at our next Assembly on Friday 14 March.

Week 5 Running Club House Points: (drum roll please…) 

Congratulations to MAKARIA for running the most laps in Week 5!

Reminder: Canteen Order Deadlines

Dear Parents

A friendly reminder that canteen orders must be placed no later than 7:30am if ordering online. If you prefer to place an order in person, morning orders at the canteen close at 9:00am.

Thank you for your cooperation in helping us ensure a smooth and efficient service for all students.

The Canteen Team

Harmony Day 2025

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.

Wanneroo Library – The Boost Program

Wanneroo Public Library – 3 Rocca Way Wanneroo

Friday 28 March 9:30am – 12:30pm for Part 1 and then return on Friday 4 April for Part 2

Cost: FREE – bookings essential as places are limited

Participants will receive a pack of information and activities to support you in helping your child on their ‘learning to read’ journey.

Registration is by email natasha.stoiche@wanneroo.wa.gov.au or call 9405 5954. If you are interested in the program, but not available on those dates, please email Natasha and she will advise when the next round is offered.

Helping our children take ownership of their learning

At St Stephen’s School, we believe that fostering a sense of responsibility and ownership in a child’s learning journey is essential for their growth and success. Encouraging students to take initiative, set goals, and reflect on their progress not only builds confidence but also helps develop essential life skills such as perseverance, independence, and accountability.

As parents, you play a vital role in this process. Small, age-appropriate actions at home can reinforce these values:

• For younger children: encourage them to pack their own school bag, take responsibility for their belongings, and complete small tasks like setting the table or tidying up their toys.

• For older children:support them in setting a simple homework routine, ask open-ended questions about their day, encourage them to problem-solve before stepping in to help and support them to learn from their mistakes.

By guiding our children in these small but impactful ways, we empower them to become independent learners who take pride in their efforts.

A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful parent community for your continued support in helping us raise responsible students. We also extend our gratitude to all parents who attended our “Meet and Greet” appointments last week. Your presence and engagement are a testament to the strong home-school partnership we cherish so much at our school.

As we approach the halfway mark of Term 1, we take a moment to reflect on the amazing work achieved so far and look forward to keep working together to support our students in becoming responsible, motivated, and lifelong learners.

With gratitude

The Primary Leadership Team

Running Club

WEEK 4 Running Club House Points: (drum roll please…)

100 LAPS CLUB

Congratulations to James Finkelstein (year 1) for completing 200 laps on his running club card!

Congratulations to PARRESIA for running the most laps in Week 4!

Swimming Carnival

FRIENDLY REMINDERS…   

Can I take photos/videos at the Swimming 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. The judge’s decision is final. Disputing with officials sets a poor example for children and undermines the spirit of fair play.

Can I purchase food/drink for my child from the Café? 

Spectators are welcome to purchase food/drink from the indoor café throughout the day, however we kindly request that you do not purchase food/drink for your child. Students will need to bring a packed lunch with all food/drink they require for the day. Water fountains will be available to fill up water bottles throughout the day.

Does my child have to wear a swimming cap? 

No, the House coloured swimming caps are optional for students to borrow on the day if they wish. We recommend you equip your child with an appropriate pair of goggles for the day however.

What if my child has not yet learnt Breaststroke or frog kick? 

We understand that some swim schools teach the frog kick and breaststroke techniques at a later stage in their swimming program. Children who are confident swimming 25m freestyle and 25m backstroke are welcome and encouraged to participate in the 25m deep end events, however they will have the option of using a kickboard or noodle under their arms for the 25m breaststroke event in the deep end. If your child has not yet learnt the frog kick technique, they will have the option of using a kickboard and doing freestyle kick.

Does my child have to dive into the pool? 

No. Students in shallow end events will start in the water (in the middle of the pool with the assistance of our secondary student helpers). Students in the 25m deep end events and 50m events will have the option of starting in the water, diving off the edge of the pool (next to the blocks) or diving off the blocks.

How does the House Point and ribbon system work at the swimming carnival? 

• All students who participate in a 25m shallow end event will receive 4 house points.
• All students who participate in a 25m deep end event will receive 6 house points.
• All students who participate in a 25m shallow end or deep end event will receive a participation ribbon (if they wish) to recognise and celebrate their efforts in the water.
• Students who participate in the 50m events and Butterfly events will receive house points and individual points based on their overall placing and time.
  (1^stplace: 20 points, 2^nd place: 18 points, 3^rd place: 16 points, 4^th place: 14 points, 5^th place: 12 points, 6^th place: 10 points, 7^th and 8^thplace: 8 points).
• It is important to note and explain to your child that some year groups will have multiple heats for each 50m event. House points and place ribbons will be allocated and handed out to students after all 50m heats for that category have been swum. For example– there may be three 50m heats for the Year 6 boys category. If a student in Heat 3 swims the fastest time overall out of all swimmers in Heat 1, 2 and 3, then the student from Heat 3 will be awarded with 20 house points and the 1^st place ribbon.
• We recognise that it is a huge effort and achievement to swim in a 50m event regardless of the result, so students who swim in the 50m events will be rewarded with more house points than the 25m categories. Students who do not receive a place ribbon in a 50m event will be offered a participation ribbon for their efforts as well.

Why are place ribbons not handed out in the 25m events? 
Students participating in the 25m events are in a wide range of different swimming levels and abilities. Most children in these events are still in the process of developing the correct and efficient technique for freestyle, backstroke and breaststroke. Hence, children in these events should not be encouraged to ‘race’. The 25m events provide students with an opportunity to build their confidence in the water and participate to the best of their ability. The 25m events are also a non-competitive option for students who do not wish to participate in the 50m events.

Departing the venue and signing your child out:

If wanting to take your child home from the venue, please ensure you find your child’s classroom teacher to sign your child out. Each classroom teacher will have a sign out sheet. Once your child is signed out with the classroom teacher, you can then take them home from the venue.

When is the Interschool Swimming Carnival? 

The Year 3 – 6 NIPSSA Interschool Swimming Carnival will take place on Friday the 4^th of April. The Interschool Swimming Team will be selected from the overall 50m results at our Interhouse Swimming Carnival. More information about the carnival will be sent out via Consent2Go once the team has been selected.

First Parent Series event for 2025 – one not to miss!

We are pleased to welcome Kirra Pendergast, founder of Safe on Social to share practical, valuable knowledge and advice on how to keep ourselves and our children safe from online dangers. Kirra will focus on sexting, deep fakes, fraud prevention, cyber-bullying and online hate as well as how we as parents can coach and guide our young people to manage themselves safely online.

​Kirra Pendergast is a leading international expert in online safety, with a career spanning over three decades. Her extensive experience includes leading groundbreaking projects such as whole-of-Queensland government cybersecurity initiatives and post-9/11 counter-terrorism strategies. Kirra’s pioneering work in cybersecurity since 1995, social media risk management since 2008, and her development of industry-first policies and training programs highlight her deep expertise and innovative approach. You can read more about Kirra on the Safe on Social website or on her own website 

This event is recommended to parents with children in Years 6 – 9. Tickets are $5 and are strictly limited so please book early to secure your place. Book online here https://events.humanitix.com/ps2025-t1

Our new Dove Award 

At our school, we understand the importance of fostering intrinsic motivation – the internal drive that encourages students to take pride in their learning, behaviour, and achievements. When young people develop this sense of self-motivation, they are more likely to persevere through challenges, take ownership of their progress, and find joy in personal growth.

Our staff consistently strive to positively affirm students, reinforcing their achievements through verbal praise and encouragement. While words of affirmation are powerful, we also recognise that students appreciate visual forms of recognition that acknowledge their hard work and perseverance.

This year, we are introducing the Dove Award, a special recognition for students who:
✅ Consistently put effort into their work
✅ Consistently demonstrate good manners and respect for others
✅ Consistently uphold our school values in their daily actions
✅ Consistently show remarkable improvement in a particular area

The Dove Award is not given easily; it is reserved for students who have consistently worked hard and shown real progress in one or more of these areas. Rather than a traditional certificate or trophy, this recognition will come in the form of a sticker placed in the student’s school diary, serving as a lasting reminder of their achievement.

By reinforcing positive behaviours and celebrating genuine growth, our staff continue to nurture motivated, confident, and responsible learners who take pride in their own success.

The Primary Leadership Team

Student Photos

A reminder to place your order for school photos. Follow the instructions below to place your order through Photo Hendriks, using the all-in-one Access Key to view package options and pay online. Please note that the below all-in-one Access Key is for Primary student photo orders only. There is a separate all-in-one Access Key for Secondary student photo orders, which has been emailed to all families.

Secondary Captains Fundraising Event – Pancake Day

Running Club

WEEK 3 Running Club House Points: (drum roll please…)

Congratulations to MAKARIA for running the most laps in Week 3!

Children’s University 2025 – Want to know more?

I will be running an information session in the Primary forum on Thursday 20 February from 8.10am.  Any interested students in Year 3 and above and/or parents are welcome and encouraged to attend to get their questions answered.  If you are interested but unable to attend, please let me know via email (janelle.morris@ststephens.wa.edu.au)

Students currently enrolled are welcome to come and drop their passports off to me for stamping.

Lost Property

The below items have made their way to lost property. If you recognise any of the below items, please collect them from lost property in the Reception Office. Please ensure your child’s name is on all their belongings so they can be reunited.

First Parent Series Event For 2025 – one not to miss!

We are pleased to welcome Kirra Pendergast, founder of Safe on Social to share practical, valuable knowledge and advice on how to keep ourselves and our children safe from online dangers. Kirra will focus on sexting, deep fakes, fraud prevention, cyber-bullying and online hate as well as how we as parents can coach and guide our young people to manage themselves safely online.

​Kirra Pendergast is a leading international expert in online safety, with a career spanning over three decades. Her extensive experience includes leading groundbreaking projects such as whole-of-Queensland government cybersecurity initiatives and post-9/11 counter-terrorism strategies. Kirra’s pioneering work in cybersecurity since 1995, social media risk management since 2008, and her development of industry-first policies and training programs highlight her deep expertise and innovative approach. You can read more about Kirra on the Safe on Social website or on her own website 

This event is recommended to parents with children in Years 6 – 9. Tickets are $5 and are strictly limited so please book early to secure your place. Book online here https://events.humanitix.com/ps2025-t1

Australian Girls Choir Open Day

Look no further than the Australian Girls Choir (AGC) because we encourage, challenge and inspire girls as they learn to sing, dance and perform. School aged girls are invited to come along to our February Open Day to try our fun and inclusive classes and learn more about being part of the AGC! Please visit our website to register to attend our free Open Day: ausgirlschoir.com.au/joinagc

Week 3

Week 3 already! It has been wonderful to see our students continuing to settle in so well this term. The school is buzzing with energy, and we are well and truly on our way to a successful year ahead!

Last week, we kicked off our Buddy Program, an initiative that brings younger and older students together to build friendships, foster leadership, and create a strong sense of community. It has been heartwarming to see students connecting, supporting one another, and learning valuable social skills in the process and we look forward to our second session this Friday.

As a school, we have been reflecting on the importance of “connectivity” this year. In today’s fast-paced world, technology keeps us connected like never before. However, studies show that too much screen time can negatively impact mental health, sleep, and face-to-face communication. Research from the American Psychological Association highlights that frequent use of digital devices can lead to increased stress and reduced emotional well-being.

For both students and parents, taking intentional breaks from technology can strengthen relationships, improve focus, and promote overall well-being. Simple habits like device-free family meals, outdoor activities, and mindful conversations can help us reconnect with each other and create a healthier balance.

Let’s encourage one another to disconnect from screens and reconnect with life. After all, the best connections happen beyond the screen!

The Primary Leadership Team

2025 Class Parents’ Committee

We are pleased to announce the names of the 2025 Class Parent Representatives. We know they will introduce themselves via their respective Year group Facebook pages once permissions have been transferred over from the previous “owners”, but in this forum, we would personally like to offer our sincere thanks to them for their willingness to be involved this year.

We held our first meeting of the year last week and will be able to confirm with our community a little later this term the 2025 fundraising events which will be organised by the committee.

Student Photos

Primary student photos were taken today! Follow the instructions below to place your order through Photo Hendriks, using the all-in-one Access Key to view package options and pay online. Please note that the below all-in-one Access Key is for Primary student photo orders only. There is a separate all-in-one Access Key for Secondary student photo orders, which has been emailed to all families.

Running Club

WEEK 2 Running Club House Points: (drum roll please…)

Congratulations to PARRESIA for running the most laps in Week 2!

100 LAPS CLUB 

Congratulations to Jennamary Joby (year 3) who completed 100 laps on her running club card! Congratulations to Brayden Kilian (year 3) and Jayden Drew (year 6) for completing 200 laps on their running club cards! Outstanding effort and commitment to Neil Schoeman for completing 900 laps on his running club card! Well done everyone!

Parent Teacher ‘Meet and Greet’ – Kindergarten to Year 6

Dear Parents

It has been wonderful to welcome our community back to school for 2025. The children are well settled and are enjoying their learning. As we walk round the classes every day, this is very evident when we see the walls becoming filled with their work, questions and ideas. As part of our ‘welcome back’ process, we are offering a time for parents to ‘meet and greet’ your child’s teacher on a one-to-one basis. This is offered as a 10 minute individual meeting time during Week 4. Bookings are essential and can be made through the link below.

Please note that the purpose of this meeting is to chat about how your child has settled into their new class. It is not about results and academic progress at this stage as our teachers take much more time to gather a range of evidence to address these areas.

Please go to the Parent & Student Portal via the link below:

https://portal.ststephens.wa.edu.au/parent-and-student/index.html

Go to:

Plan the Term then proceed to Interview Bookings.

Log in to EdInfo to book an interview. Please note that bookings for interviews will close on Friday 14 February.

Should you have any concerns logging in to your account please contact the IT Parent helpline on 9243 2160 between the hours of 8.30am and 4.00pm.

We look forward to seeing you.

Kind regards

The Primary Leadership Team

Scholastic Book Club

Orders for issue 1 are due by Tuesday 18 February

Secondary Captains Fundraising Event – Pancake Day

Children’s University 2025

It is that time of year again where we look for students who love to learn and want to drive their own learning adventure outside the classroom.  This will be the fifth year we have run Children’s University at St Stephens School Carramar and some students have been enrolled since the beginning 😊.  There is a wonderful graduation event held at the end of November for students who achieve set milestones.  We had 10 graduates last year and it was wonderful to see their efforts acknowledged.

Please see the flyers attached for more information on this great opportunity to partner with ECU in fostering a love of learning in your child.  If your child is interested in participating, please email your expression of interest to Janelle.morris@ststephens.wa.edu.au for more information on how to sign up.  There are a limited number of places in the program and last year we did fill up.

First Parent Series event for 2025 – one not to miss!

We are pleased to welcome Kirra Pendergast, founder of Safe on Social to share practical, valuable knowledge and advice on how to keep ourselves and our children safe from online dangers. Kirra will focus on sexting, deep fakes, fraud prevention, cyber-bullying and online hate as well as how we as parents can coach and guide our young people to manage themselves safely online.

​Kirra Pendergast is a leading international expert in online safety, with a career spanning over three decades. Her extensive experience includes leading groundbreaking projects such as whole-of-Queensland government cybersecurity initiatives and post-9/11 counter-terrorism strategies. Kirra’s pioneering work in cybersecurity since 1995, social media risk management since 2008, and her development of industry-first policies and training programs highlight her deep expertise and innovative approach. You can read more about Kirra on the Safe on Social website or on her own website 

This event is recommended to parents with children in Years 6 – 9. Tickets are $5 and are strictly limited so please book early to secure your place. Book online here https://events.humanitix.com/ps2025-t1

Photo Day Reminder

• Kindy students: Monday 10 February

• Pre-Primary to Year 6 students: Tuesday 11 February (children need to be wearing their white school shirt (3-6) and striped shirt (K-2). NO SPORTS SHIRTS FOR THIS DAY – FORMAL UNIFORM REQUIRED

• Pre-Kindy students: Wednesday 19 February

A Wonderful Start to the School Year!

We are delighted to share that the school year has begun on a very positive note! It has been wonderful to see students settling in, building connections and embracing new learning opportunities.

A heartfelt thank you to all parents and caregivers who attended our Parent Information Evenings over the last two weeks. Your presence and support mean so much to us and we value the strong partnership between home and school.

As always, we have an open-door policy and welcome you to reach out to us if you have any concerns. Parents are encouraged to make appointments with teachers to discuss any matters regarding their child’s learning. If reaching out via email, please allow 24 to 48 hours for a response, as our staff are dedicated to caring for and teaching the students in their care.

We look forward to a fantastic year ahead and appreciate your continued support!

The Primary Leadership Team

Early Years Worship in Week 3

Please note that our Early Years’ Worship will exceptionally take place at 2:50pm on Monday 10/2 due to our Kindy photos scheduled in the morning.

School Photo Day Reminder

Please see below schedule for our school photos this year:

• Kindy students: Monday 10 February
• Pre-Primary to Year 6 students: Tuesday 11 February (children need to be wearing their white school shirt (3-6) and striped shirt (K-2). NO SPORTS SHIRTS FOR THIS DAY – FORMAL UNIFORM REQUIRED.
• Pre-Kindy students: Wednesday 19 February

Canteen

A reminder to parents when ordering school lunches that the School’s preferred options are:

1.  Online via Quickcliq

2. Placed in class lunch baskets in your student’s classrooms

Many thanks, Canteen staff

Icy Poles are back!

Our Captains will start selling icy poles at Recess this Friday for $1 each. Please note that all proceeds will be given to a charity organisation to be chosen by our Semester 1 Captains later this term.

2025 Classroom Parents’ Committee

I would like to thank all parents who have already nominated to be part our 2025 Classroom Parents’ Committee. Their contribution to our school community is truly appreciated. Please note that we are still missing parents in the following year levels:

• Kindy
• Pre-Primary
• Year 4

If you are interested in being part of this important committee, please email Mrs Streeter or Mrs Milne @ EAcarramar@StStephens.wa.edu.au no later than Wednesday 5 February. Our termly meeting will be held this Thursday, 6 February, in the Boardroom (or via TEAMs) from 9am to 10:30am.

 After School Clubs

After School Clubs are starting this week. Please note that registrations for the CFC (Cards for Charity) Club is now open for Year 4 to 6 students.

Running Club

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 next Thursday the 6 February. 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 left in our year group bags at the end of 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 Nicol

Term 1 After School Clubs

We are offering 8 clubs this term and bookings open this evening at 6.00pm.

Boardgames Club (Year 3 and 4 students)

CFC Club (Cards For Charity) (Year 5 and 6 students)

Mindful Me Club (Year 2 and 3 students)

Money, Money, Money! (Year 5 and 6 students)

CRU Club (Year 5 and 6 students) – lunchtime club

After School Sports (Year 1 and 2 students)

Early Years Nature Club (Students in Year 1 to 3)

Read and Draw Club (Pre-Primary students)

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. 

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

Welcome to a New School Year!

Day one of the school year was filled with joy, excitement and a true sense of renewal as we welcomed students, families, and staff back to our vibrant community. It was wonderful to see familiar faces and meet our new families joining us in 2025.

This morning at our Assembly, we thought about how a pencil can teach us five key things to inspire and guide us throughout the year:

1. Put yourself in the hands of those who care about you – Whether it’s God, your teachers, or your parents, trust them to guide you along the way.
2. In life, you will undergo “uncomfortable sharpening” – The challenges you face will shape and strengthen you.
3. Everything you do will always leave a mark – Make it a positive one.
4. You can always correct your mistakes – Growth comes through learning and reflection.
5. What is inside you is the most important part – Your character and heart define who you are.

As we embark on this new chapter, we look forward to what 2025 will bring—a year filled with learning, growth and meaningful moments together.

Here’s to a wonderful year ahead!

The Primary Leadership Team

Parent Information Evenings

It was lovely to welcome our Pre-Kindy, Kindy and Pre-Primary families to their Parent Information Evenings last week and we look forward to welcoming our Yr1 to Yr6 families for theirs this week. As per the information letter sent out earlier this year, please see below details for the week:

Year 1 (in the Primary Forum) & Year 2 (in the Library): Tuesday 28 January 2025, 6.45pm –7.45pm

Year 3 (in the Library): Wednesday 29 January 2025, 6.45pm –7.45pm

Year 5 (Primary Forum) & Year 6 (in the Library): Thursday 30 January 2025, 6.45pm –7.45pm

Year 4 (Primary Forum): Wednesday 5 February 2025, 6:00pm – 6:45pm

Icy Poles will be back next week!

Captains will be ready to start selling icy poles for $1.00 each, next Friday, 7 February at Recess. Please note that the proceeds sales will be donated to a non-profit organisation, to be chosen by students later this term.

Class Representatives

As per earlier correspondence, if you are interested in becoming a Class Representative this year, please submit your expression of interest with your classroom teacher. Leadership will be in touch with candidates in the coming weeks with more information and date for our first meeting.

Photo Day

Please see below schedule for our school photos this year:

• Kindy students: Monday 10 February
• Pre-Primary to Year 6 students: Tuesday 11 February (children need to be wearing their white school shirt (3-6) and striped shirt (K-2). NO SPORTS SHIRTS FOR THIS DAY – FORMAL UNIFORM REQUIRED.
• Pre-Kindy students: Wednesday 19 February

Term 1 After School Clubs

Term 1 After School Clubs will be starting next week! More information in relation to Clubs on offer will be sent later this week. Bookings will be available from 6.00pm this Friday 31 January. 

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.

Reminder

Please note that the designated staff car park (including the turning circle) is not to be used by parents. We appreciate your cooperation in this matter.

The Primary Leadership Team

YEAR 3 – 6 INTERHOUSE SWIMMING CARNIVAL

Dear Parents/Guardians

Welcome back to Term 1! With this year’s Interhouse Swimming Carnival just around the corner, we are currently in the process of planning our event. In order for us to place your child into the correct events for the day, we need to be informed of your child’s current swimming level (as we are aware some students may have participated in swimming lessons over the school holidays). Due to the closure of HBF Arena Joondalup, we have been fortunate enough to secure a booking at an alternate venue (Terry Tyzack Aquatic Centre – Inglewood) for 2025.

Please complete the Swimming Information form (going home with students Wednesday 29 January) and return to Reception or your child’s classroom teacher no later than Tuesday 4 February.

Date:                                     Wednesday 5 March 2025 (Week 6, Term 1)

Venue:                                   Terry Tyzack Aquatic Centre- 62 Alexander Drive Inglewood WA 6052

Time:                                     Bus departing school at 8.20am – bus returning to school by 3.10pm

What to bring/wear:

• Students must bring all food and drink they require for the day – the Café is not accessible to students.
• House Uniform, towel, thongs/sandals and bathers. Students will need to arrive at school wearing their bathers underneath their House uniform. No bikini style two-piece bathers please.
• Labelled school bag or alternative backpack
• Swimming caps and goggles are highly recommended. We will be providing House coloured swimming caps for students to borrow on the day if they wish.
• Sun protection – as our carnival will be conducted in the 50m outdoor pool at Terry Tyzack Aquatic Centre this year, all students must be prepared with the appropriate sun protection including:

• Labelled hat (this can be the school hat or a House coloured hat)
• Sunscreen (we will provide sunscreen in the House bays but students are also encouraged to bring their own)
• Short-sleeved OR long-sleeved rash vest/rashie. Students are not required to wear a rash vest/rashie during their swimming races/events, however we strongly recommend wearing rashies in the bays for sun protection. 

Volunteers

We will require a number of parent/guardian volunteers to assist us on the day. We would love your involvement in making this event a huge success for our students. If you would like to help at the Primary Swimming Carnival and you are available from 9.00am until 2.30pm on Wednesday the 5^th of March, please contact me via email at kaliah.nicol@ststephens.wa.edu.au.

If you have any questions about the upcoming Primary Interhouse Swimming Carnival or the Swimming Information Form, please don’t hesitate to contact me via email at at kaliah.nicol@ststephens.wa.edu.au

We thank you for your support and look forward to seeing your children swim at our Interhouse Swimming Carnival!

Yours sincerely

Miss Kaliah Nicol

Primary Physical Education Teacher

Welcome back – 2025 is here!

We are thrilled to welcome all our families back to school for what promises to be an exciting year ahead. We hope you had a restful break filled with special moments spent with loved ones.

As we begin this new chapter, we look forward to all that 2025 will bring for our students, families, and school community. A reminder that students from Pre-Primary to Year 6 will commence on Tuesday 28 January. Upon arrival, students are invited to head straight to their classrooms to meet their teacher and learning assistant, setting the tone for a positive and productive start.

We are also delighted to invite parents to join us for our “Welcome Assembly” at 9.00am, held in our beautifully refurbished Primary Forum. This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the beginning of the school year together as a community.

Finally, we wish you a joyful and relaxing Australia Day long weekend and look forward to seeing everyone on Tuesday, refreshed and ready for the year ahead!

Warm regards

The Primary Leadership Team