St Anthony's School Term 4 Week 8 2023

Principal's Report

Well here we are reading the final newsletter of the 2023 school year!

It has been a journey that started with tentative steps perhaps, but one that has taken us to remarkable heights. We have encountered some trials and tribulations along the way...soldiered on and come out the stronger for them. We have experienced exceptional moments, magical moments and created memories that will be fondly remembered in the years ahead.

Henry Ford wisely said, "Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress and working together is success." As we look back over this last year, certainly there was a beginning, and thankfully there was also progress and yes - undeniably we have been successful.

Academic success is not possible without you, the parents. We know that children thrive when home and school work together in a close partnership. As parents, you teach more to your children through their day to day dealings than we ever could in the short time they are exposed to us. 

I would like to thank the 2023 teaching staff. The teachers provide the learning opportunities  into which our children get submerged. They are the glue really that holds it all together.
All teachers have been able to provide something outside their classroom delivery that has added to the fabric of this school community. These individuals come to school today with a positive mindset and with the best interests of their students at heart.  Teaching is not an easy profession and I often say, it’s not a job you could come and do every day unless you loved it and I witness the highs and lows that these individuals tackle with the utmost professionalism on the daily.

They are involved in the parish, sports organisation, school musical,  curriculum development, ICT and providing many cultural opportunities. All areas of the curriculum and beyond are covered.

Our teachers work extremely hard for your children all 239 of them. These professionals work long hours to plan and implement the best learning opportunities.
They are teachers ,mentors ,first aiders, coaches, computer whizzes , counsellers ,peace negotiators,  advocates and friends. 
Their job is huge ,it is ever changing, it is dynamic and most of the time thankless.
I would like to thank the team we have here at St Anthony’s for all the work they have provided for all students this year.
We are constantly in a pattern of change and for teachers to remain as sane as they are, (well mostly) ,is admirable!
I would like to personally thank our Leadership Team of Katie Hauser, Ann Foster and Leona Doherty.  These ladies work far beyond the hours they are paid and their support, friendship and expertise is very much valued by me.

At the end of next week, we farewell Katie Hauser and I cannot thank-you enough for what she’s brought to St Anthony’s and I will personally miss her friendship. 
Here at St Anthony’s we are blessed to have the most amazing and dedicated team of school officers who support our school in various ways, from student learning in the classroom, library, tuckshop, uniform and our grounds.
The amazing administration ladies, Emily Vogler and Kim Hess who provide the shop window and all the answers to parents in the office and on the phone in the day to day running of the school. From bandaids, to budgets,  bus travel, banking, booklists and belly aches….they deal with all of this and more with compassion and patience.  Nothing is ever too much trouble. It wasn’t until becoming a principal all those years ago, that I gained a true understanding of the role the administration staff play in the school and their amazing ability to be able to deal with any number of disruptions within the day but still meet deadlines – all with a smile!

Thank-you to those who have committed to being part of our St Anthony’s PPF. These positions are all voluntary and these people give selflessly of their time and energy on a regular basis. At these gatherings we are always exploring ways to engage parents in the learning of the children.  We would strongly encourage all parents to consider coming along next year.  The numbers at our last gathering were a record high and we would love to continue to see new faces.  We are going to begin next year with a parent representative from each class. Everyone has something to contribute and this forum is not only a great way to connect with other parents, but it gives you insight into the strategic priorities of the school and all things budget!

There are families who have been a part of the St Anthony’s family for a long time leaving as well. They will be heading to the secondary education system or other primary schools. I hope you all look back on your experiences with us and remember your time with us with fondness.

The year 6s who are heading off to high school, many of them have been with us from the age of 5.  This cohort were in Year 1 when I commenced at St Anhtony’s and it has been such a pleasure to watch them grow and flourish over the years and I look forward to sharing our special farewell liturgy and morning tea next Tuesday.

And to the future?
We often talk of preparing children for a future that doesn’t exist.
How do we do that? How do we prepare children for such dynamic, uncertain times.
That is our role in conjunction with all of you to work out!
You see school has changed since we were at school. We don’t need to know a lot of the traditional stuff cos we can simply google it!
Our vision is to be a positive learning community that involves, staff, parents and students, developing quality relationships and developing inquiring minds. We want learners who feel valued and safe to explore opportunities with confidence and be passionate about their learning in readiness for the future challenges.
We will continue to expect high standards for our students academically, culturally and behaviourally.
To everyone who has supported the St Anthony’s School in such a positive way this year I thank you.  People get involved with schools to support their children. They do it to create a better pathway for their children one better than their own and working together that’s exactly what we do.

I am truly honoured to be the principal of this school.  To me there is no greater calling than to teach young people.
To all the families of St Anthony’s school I wish you an amazing Christmas and a safe and exciting new year.  We look forward to welcoming our 2024 school family on Tuesday, 23^rd January.

2024 Class Structures

Class allocations for 2024 have been communicated to parents via the portal earlier in the week. When we place students in a class, the only consideration with this placement is social and not academic.  Each class whether straight or composite has a range of academic levels that are catered for by our capable and professional staff.

We have done our best to accommodate any class considerations and no changes can be made now.

Composite classes have been part of our fabric at St Anthony’s for many years. The most common fear for parents having a child in a composite class is that they will fall behind – that the teacher's attention will be split between the two years and they’ll get less overall learning time with their teacher. The research, however, doesn’t agree.  Multiple studies conclude it makes no difference to performance whether students are in a straight year group or in a multi-age class. Experts agree the most important factor in determining how well a student does is the quality of the teacher and their teaching.

Additionally, it seems composite classes can actually enhance development; students becoming more confident and assertive, and learning to operate as part of a group while bolstering independent learning skills.

Year 6 Liturgy and Graduation

Next Tuesday morning (28/11), we have our Year 6 Farewell Liturgy in the Church, followed by a morning tea in the school grounds.  The Liturgy commences at 9.00am.

This is an important event and a chance to reflect on experiences of the past 7 years of schooling for these students. The transition from primary to secondary school is an exciting time for students and their parents. It is the next stage in a lifelong educational journey leading to new experiences and challenges. After the relatively familiar surroundings of primary school, it can be daunting moving to a secondary school where there are so many new experiences to navigate.  I am confident that our Year 6 students are feeling re-assured and excited about the next step and I’m looking forward to sharing the morning with the students and their families.

Cancellation of Christmas Concert and Fair

We were very sad to cancel our Christmas Concert and Fair.  We know that this event is such a popular and well attended family night out!

We cannot be disappointed with the falling of much needed rain though and I hope it is reaching those rural and remote areas who so desperately need it!

We will aim to have a big school event in Term 1 next year where we can celebrate together!

Just a reminder that our Prep Nativity Play is Thursday, 29^th November at 9.00am in the Assembly Hall and our Christmas Concert where all students are performing will be at 1.45pm on Thursday, 29^th November and we will advise of the venue for this closer to the day and depending what the weather is like!

Thank-you Pohlman’s Nursery!

Our school grounds are looking amazing at the moment! Our turf that was laid near the big tree over the last holidays is growing beautifully.  In my 6 years at St Anthony’s we have not had grass in this area so to see this green oasis is very exciting and has been a hot topic in the playground!!

We recently had a number of flowers that were donated by Pohlman’s Nursery and Mr Mark and his band of helpers have been planting these around the school.

Here are some photos of Mark and Choy Pohlman’s granddaughter, Evie pictured with some of the flowers.

These donations were very much appreciated and will be tendered to with care!

End of School Year Liturgy

Please come along to our End of School Year Liturgy in the church on Friday 1^st December at 10.00am.  During the liturgy, our end of year prizes for each class will be awarded and following the liturgy, all students will receive an ice-block.  Students are able to go home at the conclusion of these events or supervision in the hall will be provided until 3.00pm.

In January, keep an eye on the portal and our school Facebook for updates.

Until next year, take care and God bless!

Louise

The newsletter will be an e newsletter emailed to parents on a Thursday every fortnight. Community and parent notices can still be included in the newsletter by emailing the item to the school stanthonys@twb.catholic.edu.au.

Middle Leader/APRE

St Vincent De Paul Christmas Appeal

We have one more week to fill our class Christmas Hampers for the St Vincent De Paul Christmas Appeal.  Each year we contribute to this valuable appeal to support families who are doing it tough over the Christmas period. Please consider throwing a couple of extra things in the shopping trolley on your weekly shop for our hampers.                        

Reconciliation

Congratulations to Shany, Adut and Oliver D who made their reconciliation this week.  They have taken the next step on their Sacramental Journey and will continue forward next year when they make their Confirmation and First Communion.

Presentation Day

This week we celebrated the feast of the Presentation of Mary.  This day is an important day in our school community as it connects to the Presentation Sisters, the first educators in our school, who served our community from 1955 to the 1990s.  Nano Nagle, the foundress of the sisters chose the name Presentation Sisters, inspired by Mary and her openness to say yes to God.   This year all students have learned a lot about Nano Nagle, focusing on stories from her life that reflect the touchstones of the Love of Others pathway.  The touchstones of ‘Be kind, Be fair, Be inclusive, Be honest and Be respectful’ are values that Nano Nagle held dear.  Nano’s love of learning is reflected in our Love of Learning pathway.  Nano Nagle chose to say yes to God by putting others ahead of her own needs and brought the good news of Jesus to the poorest people in Ireland. We all can strive to be Presentation people following the St Anthony’s Way, as Sister Maria shared with us during the liturgy.  Congratulations to Madhal, Maycee-Ann, Winnie, Mason, Joash, Chloe, Aiden, Charlotte, MJ, Liam and Puondak who received a Spirit of Nano Nagle award, acknowledging how they follow in the footsteps of Jesus and Nano Nagle in the way they live their lives.

Report Cards

Your child’s semester two report card will be available on the portal next week.  These will be emailed to you, as well as placed permanently in your child’s portal profile. Please follow this link to watch a video of how to access reports on the Sentral App. Sentral Academic Reports How to video

Farewell

We will formally say goodbye to our departing Year 6 students on Tuesday the 28^th of November at 9am in the Church.  Families of Year 6 students are warmly invited to attend this significant occasion.

To our Year 6 students, staff and any families leaving the school we wish you all the best for your future.  Having journeyed along the St Anthony’s Way for however long, I pray that the pathway that has been ignited by your time here will continue to shine bright.  May you use your light to be a beacon for your true self and offer it to others along the way.

On the last day of school, Friday the 1st of Dec, we will celebrate as a community and acknowledge the work and commitment of the students and staff of St Anthony’s in 2023. The final liturgy will be held in the Church at 10.15am.  Everyone is welcome to attend!  

This will be my last newsletter article at St Anthony’s.  As I begin to prepare to pack all of my things and say my goodbyes, I have been reflecting upon the sense of belonging that I have felt in this community.  As the lines suggest in our school prayer;

Let love abide here, love for one another and love for life itself.

Just as many hands build a house many hearts make a school’

St Anthony’s is a special place for all who step through it’s doors. I have felt privileged to have been a part of this community.  I have learned and loved, and I will treasure the memories I have made here.  Thank you to all the members of the community who have made it such a transformative experience for me; teachers, support staff, parents and the wonderful students who have brought light, love, and laughter to my days. Finally, my gratitude extends to our amazing Principal Mrs Pfingst. It has been a pleasure to work beside her, feeling her warmth, support, direction, and encouragement.  

Merry Christmas

This weekend marks the first Sunday in Advent, a time in the Church calendar when we pause, reflect, and prepare for the gift of God’s love coming to us through the baby Jesus.  As we prepare for Christmas we can get caught up in the business of shopping, decorating, cooking, end of year parties and ticking off to do lists.  The concept of Advent is to prepare ourselves, to get ready to receive the good news that God loves us, just as we are, which is reaffirmed each year as we listen to the story of Jesus birth. 

Wishing you and your family a joyous Christmas and a relaxing, refreshing break to recharge and renew.

Performing Arts

The Arts Report for 2023

This has been a wonderful year for Music, Drama and Dance. Thank you to all the students and families who have supported the Arts in our school.

ARTS FEST: The first ever Arts Fest was held this year. Students from our school were able to take part in Drama Improvisation Workshops, Verse Speaking Workshops, Music Theatre Performances and several amazing concerts. I was so proud of our students! We were so excited to take part in a Diocesan wide event where over 1000 students celebrated the arts in our community.

CHILDREN’S CHOIR: We have had a wonderful group of children who come once a month to lead the singing at the St Anthony’s Parish 8.30am mass. I know our music is a highlight for many parishioners and I am grateful to the students who turn up with so much energy and enthusiasm.

PIRATES OF THE CURRY BEAN: I was so impressed with our Year Six students (and our optional Year Five Chorus) who presented an incredibly entertaining musical to the school community and to their family and friends. I know that this was challenging for many of them but they all stepped up and made the most of every line. We loved it!

CHRISTMAS CONCERT: It’s a shame that our Christmas concert has been cancelled due to uncertain weather. Each class has had a lot of fun preparing their song and dance routine to celebrate Christmas. Next year!

PREP NATIVITY PLAY: Our final performance of the year will be the Prep Nativity Play – ‘Busy, Busy Bethlehem’.  It really is one of my favourite days of the whole year. Don’t miss this if your child is in Prep. They really are quite amazing!

CHOIR: Back in Term Two our School Choir placed 3^rd in the Toowoomba Eisteddfod. We were very excited as it has been a few years since we have been awarded a place in this very competitive section. The choir has gone on to take part in many wonderful events including – the Sacred Choral Concert at the TCS Arts Fest, performing for the St Anthony’s Parish Friendship Group, leading the singing at the Walk for Hope Civic service and our recent visit to St Vincent’s hospital. We really enjoyed visiting all the different wards at St Vincent’s hospital – particularly meeting a brand new baby in the maternity ward and singing in the huge hospital kitchen before our lovely afternoon tea. Thank you to David Seng and St Mary’s College for providing transport to and from the hospital. I would like to extend a special thank you to our Year Six students who have lead the choir this year and who will be missed next year. Thank you to Jaida Birch, Bailey Rub, Phoebe Tulilo-Seremaia, Vann Jones, Lauren Kropp and Olivia Thomas. I would especially like to acknowledge Puondak Mawien who was a leader of our school choir and also an incredibly reliable and wonderful supporter of the Children’s Choir at St Anthony’s parish.

Thank you again to the students and families who have supported all our different events throughout the year. You help to make our community a more beautiful and joyful place. Merry Christmas to you all.

Anne-Maree Spalding, Performing Arts Teacher

Prep White & Prep Blue

Welcome to week 8! We have a very busy week ahead of us!

Friday 24^th of November will be our end of school reward with water play for children who have received 300 points this term. Please send your child to school with sun safe swimwear so they may participate. 

Monday 27^th of November we will be participating in our schools ‘step up morning’ where children will meet and have time with their year 1 teachers and find out who is in their class. 

Wednesday 29^th of November at 9:00am we will be having our Prep Nativity Play. You are invited to attend to watch your child perform. 

Thursday 30^th of November class party!! To celebrate our year together we would like to complete our year with a class party! We ask that everyone bring a plate of food to share with our classmates. 

Friday 1^st of December is our final day in Prep! There will be a whole school liturgy at the Parish at 10:00am to complete our year. 

 Thank you all for your support this year and allowing us to be your child's teachers in their first year of schooling!! It has been a great year and would not have been possible without with out your continued support.

Kind regards, 

Siobhan and Katelyn

Yr 1 White

Well, we’ve made it to the last newsletter and to the second last week of term. Less than 5 weeks til the Man in Red arrives. And oh boy, there are a lot of eager students waiting to see him…..

Over the last few weeks we have been completing assessment tasks within the classroom as well as doing some revision on Maths and English topics. Reports are now being finalised based on the students assessments and will be out through the portal soon.

Last Friday the students explored some construction for the afternoon, designing a picture with a variety of loose materials. Lots of fun, conversations and creativity was had by everyone.

Don’t forget, raffle tickets for the Year 1 Toy Raffle are being sold each day. $2 each or 3 for $5. We have 4 absolutely amazing raffles to be won. Thank you to all that have donated such wonderful toys.

Jacque Houghton

Year 1 Blue

I would like to thank all of my wonderful students for an amazing year. I am so proud of the improvements that our year one class has shown.

I want to wish our Year One Blue families a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy new year!

Emma Daniells

Yr 2 White

As we reach the end of the term, it is hard to believe that this marks the end of my first year at St Anthony’s! What an incredible journey it has been. Year 2 White has truly been something special, and I am forever grateful for my first class at St Anthony’s to have been so welcoming.

The year has been filled with hard work, laughter, and countless memorable moments, and now it's time to recharge our batteries, spend quality time with loved ones, and enjoy the well-deserved break. Thank you to the parents and caregivers who have been vital to our journey this year. Without your support and encouragement, the students would not have achieved all they have.

I wish you all a joyful holiday season filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Looking forward to seeing everyone next year, for more amazing adventures and growth!

For the last time in 2023, Mrs Collis

Yr 2/3 Blue

I am so proud of the effort and the achievements of all of my beautiful 2/3 Blue children. It has been an absolute pleasure teaching them and I wish them all the very best for Year 3 and Year 4. Thank you for the support from all parents and carers. It has been a very successful year.

Wishing all of my Year 2/3 Blue families a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year!

Yr 3 Gold

In English and Maths we have been revising what we have learnt over the term. In Religion we have been learning about Christmas traditions, including the Jesse Tree.

Your children will start to bring their belongings home gradually to avoid heavy weights. Thank you for your co-operation and communication over the year. Have a safe and happy Christmas break.

Yr 4/5 White

Yr 4/5 Blue

As we approach the end of this year, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary academic journey 4/5 Blue has taken together this year.

In the realm of academics, our 4/5 Blue students have truly outdone themselves. From conquering math challenges to immersing themselves in captivating literacy adventures, their academic journey has been nothing short of amazing. Witnessing their curiosity flourish has been a source of immense pride.

Within these four walls, friendships have blossomed, creating a vibrant and supportive community. The values of collaboration, kindness, and empathy have been ingrained in the fabric of our class.

Not only have the students worked hard at their academics this year they have also showcased their talents in various extracurricular pursuits. Whether on the sports field, in the music room, or beyond, their dedication has made us all proud of their achievements.

As we bid farewell to this school year, I extend my deepest gratitude to this remarkable class, full of students with enthusiasm, resilience, and positive energy. I also want to express my appreciation to the supportive parents and guardians who have played an integral role in their children’s education journey this year.

Wishing everyone a fantastic summer filled with joy, relaxation, and exciting adventures!

Until next year!

Mrs Terri-An Nolan

4/5 Gold

As we conclude another year, I find myself looking back and reflecting on how much we have achieved. I am incredibly proud of how everyone in 4/5 Gold has grown this year – both academically and physically! I have seen a surge in confidence, work ethics and maturity. 

I’d like to wish everyone a peaceful and blessed Christmas, filled with family, friendship and laughter.

Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened. — Dr. Seuss. 

Yr 6 Blue

Cheers to a year filled with accomplishments and shared moments of growth! As we approach the end of this incredible journey, we find ourselves reflecting on the highs and lows, grateful for the unwavering support that has defined our collective experience.

This week marked the grand finale of our learning adventure as we immersed ourselves in the unforgettable Legacy of Thanks Retreat. With heartfelt reflections on our primary school journey, we extended our gratitude to the amazing individuals who have played pivotal roles in shaping our path. It was an afternoon filled with warmth and appreciation, symbolizing the essence of our shared journey.

As we eagerly anticipate the upcoming Graduation Liturgy scheduled for Tuesday of Week 9, we extend an invitation for you to join us in this special celebration. Together, let's commemorate the achievements and milestones that have brought us to this momentous occasion.

In the spirit of the holiday season, I would like to take this opportunity to wish each and every one of you a Merry Christmas and a joyous New Year. May your festivities be filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments with your loved ones.

Here's to the memories we've created and the exciting adventures that await us in the future!

For the final time this year,

Mrs Kingsford & Year 6

Yamma Group

Our Yamma Group garden is becoming a thriving hub of activity. Together, we’ve nurtured and watched with anticipation as carrots, lettuce, strawberries, and tomatoes have been growing. As you can see from our photos, they have been loving the rain!

Last week, the Year 4-6 Yamma Group students embarked on a Welcome to Country Experience to the Bunya Mountains, and what an experience it was! Surrounded by the beauty which is the Bunya Mountains the students engaged with a local elder/custodian to learn about the importance of the past, and respect for the land and culture. They learnt about land management and discussed the importance of connection to the country and respect for elders.

As the school year comes to a close, I want to express my gratitude to the Yamma Group families for your unwavering support and enthusiasm this year. Your partnership has been instrumental in making this year a truly special one for our young learners and I look forward to continuing to build these relationships next year.

Wishing you all a fantastic summer break filled with adventure.

Until next year!

Mrs Terri-An Nolan

St Anthony's Uniform Shop

The uniform shop is located at St Anthony's, near the school office. 

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 12:30pm

Wednesday 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Friday 11:30am - 3:30pm

Parenting Support and Information

Parentline

Parenting can be tough. But you don’t have to do it alone. When things
become challenging, it’s important to know that you can always talk to
someone about what’s going on.

If you’re a parent, carer or family member living in Queensland or the Northern
Territory, you can call Parentline from 8am – 10pm seven days a week, for the
cost of a local phone call.

St Anthony's Outside School Hours Care

Our Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) services provide the opportunity for children to grow and develop their social skills in a leisure based environment nurtured by our Catholic ethos.  

The services offer a combination of before school, after school, Pupil Free days and vacation care led by a team of qualified educators.   Our educators work with all children to create fun and recreational experiences so that a child’s wellbeing, learning and personal development are a priority. The services provide a variety of indoor and outdoor activities to support the diverse interests of all children.  

St Anthony's OSHC Toowoomba

Phone: 0458 937 154 or 0458 897 293

Email: ANTcare@tckc.qld.edu.au