3rd July 2025

Executive Principal News

Dear Parents and Carers 

This final week of Semester One is a time for reflection and for gratitude for the achievement and growth of our students across these past two terms. The students are settled in well-established learning routines in their classrooms, and they follow our school wide behavioural expectations very well. We value respect; we value good manners; we value kindness; we value compassion; we value honesty and truth; we seek ways to live our school motto "Peace and Justice" every day and to live our faith through our actions as well as through our words.  Our school communities at both Abermain and Kurri are inclusive and staff are committed to ensuring we create a school where everyone feels valued and everyone belongs.  One of my main goals this year is to bring our Holy Spirit Schools together and to create opportunities where we can do this safely. We have held beautiful combined K-6 masses in Kurri church; a combined Cross Country event on a gorgeous sunny day; a combined Athletics Carnival although the weather was not kind that day. We have created opportunities for the Infants grades to come to the primary school to build familiarity with the site and to promote confidence in experiencing the primary school space. I am so delighted that we can welcome so many parents into our schools each week for morning or afternoon awards assemblies; Infants Grade sharing assemblies; Spelling Bees and Math's Bees. Our Mother's Day celebrations were extra special with families being able to attend events at both sites. We are committed to building links between the two school settings for each is unique and we want all students to feel that they belong to Holy Spirit Schools! This semester the staff from both schools have come together for shared professional learning meetings; our Learning Support Team, Executive Team and even our Teacher Librarians are working hand in hand to enhance the learning for all our students K-6.  You've heard me say it before, that our schools are really extra special! 

As students are developing, our role as teachers and support staff, in partnership with parents, is to support, guide, encourage, sometimes challenge and always support our students in all that they do.  I am very appreciative of the staff at both Holy Spirit Schools for they are dedicated and committed to their school communities. Dedicated to being the best teacher or support person that they can be and committed to each of the students in their care! Truly, they go above and beyond and I thank them for all they have done in Semester One. So many rich learning opportunities have been created for students K-6 this semester and our staff have already planned for more great learning experiences in semester two. 

I would like to acknowledge the work of our Gifted Education Mentor Maree Pittaway who works across both schools with our teachers and with our high potential students. Our new Pedagogical Mentor Alison Smith also works across both schools with teachers building best pedagogical practice. Our School Improvement Plan focus is to analyse data and effectively respond to that by differentiating our teaching strategies. Both Maree and Alison have brought a wealth of knowledge, skills and experience which they willingly share with our teachers.  We are blessed! 

I am grateful to our wonderful Executive Team - Mrs. Kearns and Mrs. Haines at Abermain and Mrs. Waters and Miss Spencer at Kurri, who are a fabulous team to work with! Creating our leadership team across both schools brings not only strength and experience but also wisdom and creativity to keep all our students at the centre of our decision making. Thank you! 

Our focus this semester has centred around communication. We strive to keep communication clear and hence the Peek at the Week being created and shared prior to the week ahead. We have committed to this combined newsletter and again, will seek parent feedback next term as to whether parents do read it/value it or whether between Compass and Peek at the Week our communication to you is covered. 

Seeking Parent Feedback and Ideas 

Next term I will invite parents of Year 3 to come for a coffee and cake catch up so that I can listen to your feedback about transition from Year 2 across to Year 3. I am keen to know about your child's experience and to learn from what you share, so we can make things even better for future transitions.

I will invite Year 2 parents to Kurri for a tour and an information session so that you can become familiar with the primary school even before your child begins in Year 3.

I have connected with All Saints College regarding planning for the transition to Year 7 opportunities for both students and parents and will keep you informed.  With many students experiencing anxiety about change and a new setting, I am interested and keen to hear parent ideas about what else can we do to support every student through these milestones.  Trying to find the most suitable time is always a challenge so I will share a survey link as well in week 1 next term. 

The Beatitudes for Families

Recently at our System Leaders Day, Principals and Senior Diocesan Leaders engaged in faith formation based on The Beatitudes. These teachings of Jesus, shared with his disciples and a huge crowd who had gathered to listen, have implications for our families today in 2025. Below is an excerpt from an article for families based on these teachings and some reflective questions that parents/carers may like to discuss with your children. Their responses may surprise you! 

The Sermon on the Mount found in the Gospel of Matthew (chapters 5-7) proclaims some of the richest and most familiar teachings of Jesus: the beatitudes (see 5:3-10).

1. “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
The poor include both literally poor people, in need of basic necessities, and figuratively poor people, who are aware of their spiritual poverty, people who acknowledge their need and utter dependence upon God. The reward mentioned here is nothing less than the kingdom of heaven. What do we consider to be our family’s greatest riches?

2. “Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.”
Those who mourn could be anyone who is sad or experiencing a loss of any kind. Jesus promises comfort for those who suffer. When we suffer we have a choice to make: we can become bitter, or we can become more compassionate to others in pain. How do we find comfort in our family?

3. “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land.”
The meek are people who are humble and patient. A person who chooses other ways to resolve conflicts without resorting to violence is meek. The reward is great wealth. How do we resolve conflict in our families?

4. “Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.”
This blessing is for people who hunger for justice in our world. Children have a great capacity to see wrongs and often possess a simple view of complex issues. Perhaps our kids can use their creativity to solve some of the local injustices in schools and communities.

5. “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”
Mercy is a word that holds many meanings: forgiveness, kindness, compassion. It is easier to extend mercy to others when you begin with yourself. In our family, rather than keeping track of mistakes, we try to see God’s grace among us. With mercy, you receive back the more you give.

6. “Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God.”
Who better to be clean or pure of heart then little ones? They lack malice and have such innocence, at least during the first few years. Of course, they see God, because there is nothing clouding their vision! The clean of heart can also be people who single-mindedly see God first in all situations and people.

7. “Blessed are the peacemakers, they will be called children of God.”
What risks do we take to make peace? Jesus asks us all to be peacemakers; we are, after all, children of God. As his children, we must continue to work for unity and understanding. Our families are microcosms of the world in which we learn peacemaking skills. Peace begins at home.

8. “Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
It can be difficult to do what is right, such as standing up to someone who is acting like a bully. But we learn from Jesus, and, through practice in our family, we see that doing the right thing is what it really means to be a follower of Jesus.  (Source: Teachingcatholickids.com) 

Uniform Reminders

A reminder that our students must wear their school uniform with pride as it is one of our PB4L focus behaviours across both schools. Recently at the Primary School we have seen some students wearing sport shoes with their winter uniform; students without school ties; jewellery that is not suitable for school days; incorrect socks and long hair not being tied back in accordance with our policy. We are very proud of the school uniform, and all its options, we just ask parents to check how your child looks when leaving home please.  Looking good and feeling good sets students up for a good day at school. I thank you for your attention to this. 

Parent Teacher Meetings 

It has been terrific to see so many parents taking the opportunity to come and meet with your child's teacher following their semester one report. A reminder that Mrs Korsman (Yr 5)  will offer some times for meetings early in term 3 and that at Abermain meetings will be during week 2 and bookings will open on Compass on the first day back. If you missed making a booking at the primary school, please reach out to your child's teacher via email. 

Building Update - Kurri 

The builders began their work in the Year 6 classroom last week and are progressing well. The Year 6 students have been terrific in their flexibility to move into the library and alternate space in the staff room. They have taken the changes in their stride! Year 5 classrooms are being packed up across the remaining days of this term. We hope to be able to have Year 6 move back into their rooms after the holidays. As I keep telling our staff, it will all be worth it! 

Staffing Updates

Abermain

Mrs. Edwards welcomed her new daughter Millie into the world on Monday. We send her our congratulations and mother and baby are doing well! Next term we welcome Miss Madeline James who will teach KW each Thursday and Friday for the remainder of the year with Mrs. Gossip teaching Mondays - Wednesdays. Miss James is an experienced Kindergarten teacher, and she will visit the school this week and meet her new students.  We hope she soon feels at home at Holy Spirit! Welcome Miss James! 

Mrs. Clements (LST) will go on her maternity leave in week one next term, and we wish her all the best. We welcome Mrs. Caitlin Brown, who will undertake the temporary Learning Support Teacher. Mrs. Brown will join our terrific Learning Support Team and bring to our school a passion for supporting students in their learning. Welcome! 

We hope to be able to announce the teacher who will join our team as the Acting REC and Year 1W teacher as soon as possible. Mrs. Haines will take her leave early next term, and we wish her all the very best for the time she takes away from work to care for her growing family. Miss Laczkowski will continue to teach 1W each Thursday and alternate Fridays and work with our newly appointed teacher. 

Kurri 

Recently Mrs. Sally Watts joined our Learning Support Team as a permanent Learning Support Assistant. Mrs. Watts was formerly at Holy Spirit Primary, and the team is delighted to have her back! 

Next term Mrs. Kellie Lynch will have a change in her role at Holy Spirit. Mrs. Lynch will continue in her role as Pastoral Care Worker each Monday and Friday (yes, our breakfast club is thriving in this cold weather thanks to Mrs. Lynch and her team!). She will also take on a more substantial role as the Aboriginal Education Worker in our school for three days a week. Mrs. Lynch has a great passion and creativity that she brings to this role and her work with continuing the Werrekata Group is invaluable as it connects our Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander students in a meaningful way.  We are incredibly blessed to have Mrs. Lynch in this role. 

Wishing all our families an enjoyable winter break! Its often a good time for a 'stay-cation' and playdates. 

Stay safe! 

Diane

Executive Principal

Assistant Principal News Abermain

Excellent Attendance

As we move into the winter school holidays, let's celebrate our students and families for their fantastic attendance this term! Together we have achieved a 95% attendance rate!

Can we make it to 97% next term? 

Excellent attendance means:

• Arriving on time: Getting to school before 8:55 am.
• Staying all day: Remaining until the end of the school day.
• Being present: Attending school five days a week.

We understand that sometimes absences are unavoidable due to specialist appointments, illness and of course this term we experienced some natural weather events, making attendance problematic. If your child is absent, please mark it on Compass.

Tips for great attendance:

• Set a routine: Establish a consistent bedtime and morning routine.
• Prepare the night before: Lay out clothes and pack school bags in advance.
• Healthy habits: Encourage a balanced diet and regular exercise to keep illness at bay.
• Stay informed: Keep track of school events and important dates.

Enjoy the holidays and thank you for your continued support!

Positive Behaviour for Learning

When we begin Term 3, our first Positive Behaviour for Learning (PB4L) focus is part of the "I am a learner" domain:

"I follow instructions!"

For our early learners at Holy Spirit Infants, learning to follow instructions is very important. It helps them become better learners and succeed in school and life.

• Do Tasks Right: Helps children complete tasks correctly.
• Listen Well: Improves their listening skills.
• Respect Others: Teaches them to respect teachers and friends.
• Think Better: Builds skills for thinking and solving problems.
• Do Well in School: Supports good grades and learning.
• Be Ready for Challenges: Makes them adaptable and confident.
• Keep Learning: Encourages lifelong learning and growth.

 Rebecca Kearns

AP Abermain

Assistant Principal News Kurri Kurri

Term 2 Reflections: Celebrating Our Students’ Achievements 🌟

Dear Parents and Carers, As Term 2 draws to a close, we take this opportunity to reflect on the incredible growth, achievements, and positive spirit shown by our students over the past few months. It has been a term filled with learning, laughter, and meaningful connections, and we couldn’t be prouder of the way our students have embraced every challenge and opportunity.

From the classroom to the playground, our students have demonstrated resilience, curiosity, and kindness. Whether mastering new concepts in English and Mathematics, exploring creative projects, or engaging in collaborative learning, their enthusiasm has been impressive. We’ve seen students supporting one another, celebrating each other’s successes, and showing genuine care for their peers—values that lie at the heart of our school community.

Highlights of the term include:

• Academic Growth: Students have made excellent progress across all learning areas, showing dedication and a willingness to push themselves.
• Positive Interactions: We’ve witnessed countless moments of kindness, teamwork, and respectful communication that make our school a safe and welcoming place for all.
• Community Spirit: Events such as assemblies, excursions, and celebrations have brought us together and strengthened our sense of belonging.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to you—our families—for your ongoing support, encouragement, and partnership in your child’s education. Your involvement makes a world of difference, and together, we continue to nurture confident, capable, and compassionate learners.

As we head into the holiday break, we encourage all students (and parents/carers) to rest, recharge, and enjoy time with loved ones. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for Term 3, ready for new adventures and continued success.

Angela Waters

AP Kurri Kurri

Faith Life at Holy Spirit Schools

RECONCILIATION SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM:

Over the past 3 weeks a group of 15 wonderful students have come together with their families to learn about the Sacrament of Reconciliation. They took part in group learning experiences each Sunday afternoon and then attended Parish Mass at St Francis Xavier at 4:30pm.

Fr James attended several sessions led by the Vineyards Pastoral regions Sacramental Team – a very genuine appreciation and thanks to Mr. Brodie Flynn and Mrs. Kate Levido for their expertise, generous sharing of faith and commitment to deliver this program.

It was very a very chilly, but special evening on Tuesday 1^st July when this group came together to celebrate the Sacrament for the first time with both Fr James and Fr Solomon. Please note that we will be running this Sacramental program again later in the year, and extending an invitation to our Year 2 students to take part in this sacred Sacrament. Applications are now open through our Parish Office please call Monique Messina on 4901551 or email her on Monique.Mesina@mn.catholic.org.au

to take part – scheduled dates for program are Sunday 19^th, 26^th October, and 2^nd November – with Sacramental celebration date to be confirmed.

Sarah Haines

REC Abermain

Phoebe Spencer 

REC Kurri Kurri

Classroom Visits 

In Weeks 9 and 10, Fr Solomon has been in to visit Year 3 and Year 4. It’s been wonderful having Fr Solomon join us, get to know our students and work alongside class teachers, sharing his insights on topics from their Religious Education Curriculum. In Year 3 they discussed important people from the Bible including Noah, Moses and Abraham. In Year 4 they talked about the Holy Spirit and the ways that it is present in our lives.

Grandparent’s Day

We will be celebrating Grandparent’s Day on Friday 25^th July around the Feast Day of St Joachim and St Anne (the grandparents of Jesus). Grandparents and families are warmly invited to attend a liturgy at 9:30 am on Friday 25^th July in Kurri Kurri Church. Following the liturgy, grandparents are invited to come back to school for scones, jam and cream, tea/coffee and open classrooms. We are looking forward to this special day to honour and thank our grandparents for their love, wisdom, and the important role they play in our families and communities.

Mary MacKillop Feast Day 

We will be celebrating the feast of Mary MacKillop (St Mary of the Cross) by attending a combined Mass with Holy Spirit Infants on Friday the 8^th August at 12:30 pm in the Kurri Kurri Church. Families are welcome to come along and join us to celebrate with the Parish.  

Who is Mary MacKillop? 

Mary MacKillop was born on January 15^th, 1842 and was the eldest of eight children. After leaving school, she became a governess and looked after children to support her family. She met Fr Julian Tenison Woods in Penola and in 1866 they opened the first Josephite school. Mary wanted everyone to receive a good education, especially those who were less fortunate in life. She became a nun in 1867 and dedicated her life to doing God’s work. More young women joined Mary as Sisters and started mores schools- Josephite schools. All children were welcome at the Josephite schools. In her later years, Mary travelled and opened orphanages, schools, and hospitals to help those in need. She passed away on August 8^th, 1909. 

On January 9^th, 1995, Pope John Paul II announced that she would become Australia’s first saint. 

Why do we celebrate Mary MacKillop? 

Mary MacKillop was an advocate for providing education to all children. Together with Fr Julian Tenison Woods they opened their first school in Penola, on the feast of St Joseph, marking the beginning of– the Sisters of St Joseph. These schools were run by the Sisters of St Joseph and are known as Josephite Schools.  

Our school Holy Spirit Primary, began in 1908 and originally was under the patronage of St Joseph and led by the Sisters of St Joseph. In 1991, the name of the school was changed to Holy Spirit Primary School. We will always celebrate and live out our Josephite heritage. We treasure our history and the contribution made by the Sisters of St Joseph. 

We will continue to celebrate Mary MacKillop and her role in paving the way for Catholic education. The feast day of Mary MacKillop is always celebrated on the 8^th August each year. 

Confirmation- 2025 
 Our families and students involved in last year’s Reconciliation group are invited to participate in the Sacrament of Confirmation and Communion. Any other student in Year 4, 5 and 6 who have previously completed their Reconciliation are also welcome to participate in the Sacrament of Confirmation.   

Confirmation is a Sacrament of Initiation in which you receive and are strengthened by the gifts of the Holy Spirit. In this sacrament, children will select a saint’s name and on the day of the Sacrament will be supported by a sponsor (someone who assists them and presents them to the Bishop or delegate).   

Details of Confirmation 2025:  

• Lessons will be held at Holy Spirit Kurri Kurri Church in the Hall after the 8.30am Sunday Mass. The children will be included in the Mass and will process in and out of Mass. Attending Mass is part of the Confirmation preparation.   

• Cost of the program is $20  

• Lesson on Sunday 27^th July 

• Lesson on Sunday 3^rd August   

• Lesson on Sunday 10^th August  

• Lesson on Sunday 17^th August  

• Sacrament of Confirmation – Bishop’s Office has confirmed- Wednesday 27^th August at 7pm at Holy Spirit Kurri Kurri Church. 
     

Sport News

Highlights in Sport

Polding Cross Country

Earlier in the term, Ryka proudly represented our school at the Polding Cross Country Carnival, held at the Sydney Equestrian Centre, finishing 35th overall. Ryka ran a personal best time of 8:48 in a very competitive race, where only seconds separated the competitors as they crossed the line. It was an incredible effort, and Ryka should be very proud of his performance!

Polding Touch

Kade, Sophie M, and Sophie P represented the Diocese at the Polding Touch Football Trials in Lake Cathie. All three students showed great skill and determination on the field.

Congratulations to Sophie M and Kade, who have been selected for the Polding Girls and Boys Touch Football Teams, respectively! They will now go on to compete at the NSWPSSA Championships in Dubbo next term.

Well done to all three students—we’re incredibly proud of your achievements!

Lower Hunter Regional Athletics –

Congratulations to all the students who represented our school at the recent Regional Athletics Carnival! Despite the freezing temperatures, strong winds, and bursts of rain, our students displayed incredible determination, resilience, and great sportsmanship throughout the day.

It was a tough day to compete, but our students rose to the challenge and gave it their all in each event. Whether they were running, jumping, or cheering on their teammates, every student made our school community proud with their positive attitude and commitment.

We would like to thank the parents and staff who supported the team on the day. Students who are successful in progressing to the next stage will be notified at the beginning of next term once final results have been confirmed.

Well done to all involved!

Boys Netball Trials-

Last week, Kade and Henry proudly represented our school at the NSW Primary Schools Boys Netball Trials held at Maitland Basketball Stadium. They competed alongside students from Catholic, public, and independent schools across the region.

A huge congratulations to Kade, who has been selected to join the Mid North Coast and Inland team! He will now go on to compete at the final championships in Coffs Harbour next term.

Well done to both boys for their effort and sportsmanship—we’re proud of you!

Final netball session-

The final week of term brought some changes to our planned activities. Netball sessions as part of the Sporting Schools program, originally scheduled for this week, were postponed due to poor weather conditions and coach availability. These sessions will now take place on the first Thursday of next term. We look forward to kicking off the program and giving students the opportunity to build their netball skills in a fun and active environment.

Term 3 Sport-

Term 3 sport for Primary students will see the return of dance lessons with Zoe, which we know our students thoroughly enjoy. These engaging and energetic sessions are always a highlight, giving students the chance to develop their coordination, rhythm, and confidence while having fun. We’re looking forward to seeing the skills that students develop over the term.

CSNSW Sport  

For those parents interested in the representative sporting pathways that are available to students and current information on Regional and Diocesan representative sports events, I encourage you to look at the following website. This website is updated on a regular basis.  https://csnsw.sport/maitland-newcastle/primary/home.   

If you have any questions or concerns regarding sport or representative pathways, please do not hesitate to contact by calling the office via email amy.williams@mn.catholic.edu.au  

Regional Athletics Carnival.

Our Lower Hunter Regional Athletics Carnival was held this past Wednesday at Maitland Athletics Track. Abermain had 8 students representing Holy Spirit Infants in both track and field events. These students included: Alexandra McMahon, Georgia Lodge, Loxie Rees, Pippa Johnson, Kai Berry, Egan Tipper, Carter Williams and Dustin Simmons. Although the rain came during the day, this did not stop our students from trying their best and having fun. Each should be extremely proud of their accomplishments and competing at this level. Thank you to all the parents, carers and grandparents to came to support these wonderful athletic children during the day.

My New Gallery

My New Gallery

We are thrilled to share that our school has been accepted to take part in the 2025 League Stars Stage 1 Tag Day, an action-packed event run by the National Rugby League at the Newcastle Knights Centre of Excellence on Thursday, 31st July. This special gala day gives our students the chance to build skills, stay active, and have fun with friends in a non-contact rugby league environment. This event is part of the broader NRLW Magic Round celebration. It is a standalone event during school hours. We’d like to say a huge congratulations to all the students who tried out—your enthusiasm and effort made us so proud, and it was incredibly difficult to narrow down the team. After much consideration, we’re excited to announce our 12 representatives who will head to the League Stars Tag Day:

• Boys: Jack Dodds, Carter Williams, Kai Berry, Jak Carberry, Egan Tipper, River Ostermann
• Girls: Enid Smith, Havana Doyle, Georgia Lodge, Loxie Rees, Mia Dow, Alexandra McMahon

We know they will do our school proud as they demonstrate teamwork, respect, and sportsmanship on the field. Thank you to our staff, parents, and carers for supporting our students’ sporting journeys. Let’s cheer on our League Stars team as they prepare for an unforgettable day! Go Team!

100 Days of Kindergarten Mon 28th July

Dear Kindergarten Families,

We are thrilled to share that our Kindergarten students are about to reach a very special milestone — 100 Days of Learning at Holy Spirit! This marks the beginning of their exciting educational journey, and we can’t wait to celebrate this achievement together.

To mark the occasion, we have a fun-filled day planned with activities all centered around the number 100. It’s a wonderful opportunity for the children to reflect on how much they’ve learned and grown in their first 100 days of school.

Event Details:
Date: Monday 28th of July
Dress Code: Out of uniform (Kindergarten students only)
Theme: Celebrating 100 Days of Learning!

Over the holidays, we encourage you to help your child connect with a grandparent or older family member. Perhaps they can borrow or bring something special that represents the number 100 — a fun way to link generations and learning!

We’re so proud of our Kindergarten students and look forward to making this day a memorable one.

Year 1 Sharing Assembly

On Friday 19^th June our Year 1 students took the spotlight for their sharing assembly that celebrated the joy of learning and the strong sense of community that has grown throughout the year. With bright smiles and confident voices, our young learners shared highlights from their classroom adventures, showcasing just how much they’ve grown in knowledge, creativity, and confidence.

From exploring numbers and equivalence in Maths to diving into storytelling and phonics in literacy, the students have embraced every challenge with curiosity and enthusiasm. Their assembly performance was a vibrant reflection of their learning journey—filled reflections, and proud moments that brought smiles to every face in the performers and the audience.

As we reflect on this joyful assembly, we are reminded that learning is not just about what we know, but how we grow—together. Thank you to our dedicated teachers, supportive families, and most of all, our amazing Year 1 students for making this semester so memorable.

We look forward to the next chapter of learning, laughter, and discovery in the term ahead!

ABERMAIN Winter Appeal

Year 5 Gold Rush Incursion

On Monday 30th June, Year 5 participated in an incursion at school where they experienced what life was like on the goldfields during the 1850s in Australia. They dressed up for the occasion and some even made their won tools to use for panning/mining for gold. Throughout the day they made and ate a mini damper, played tabloid games, had licence checks, where robbed by the government and bush rangers and engaged in challenging Gold Rush Trivia. Somehow, Year 5 even managed to find some gold for themselves right here at Holy Spirit. It was unbelievable! Some students have shared their likes and dislikes from the day.

Lucas – all the year 5 had a splendid and magnificent gold Rush. They made food (damper), hunted for gold and had a delicious sausage sizzle. It was sooooo delicious! You should have been there. It would have been very fun if you would have been there!

Noah – I didn’t like how they stole my licence, and I had to pay to get it back. I liked looking for gold. I liked making the damper. I didn’t like the bushrangers robbing me.

Henry – It was fun. The damper was very floury and very disgusting, other than that it was just a no schoolwork day.

Chelsea – it was fun! We played games with the dodgeballs. Making the damper was fun and messy. I liked it when the bushrangers came to rob us.

Caleb – it was a great day with no schoolwork, and it was really fun making damper. The most exciting part was when the bushrangers came to rob us, and everyone was screaming.

Chloe - I liked it when we were walking in and there was gold on the floor, and we had to look for the gold. The damper was nice with the Jam and to roll it in to a ball. The find-a-word was very fun and interesting and overall; I liked it a lot.

Bodhi – I liked how people could get money or gold because it was randomised, and it was fun.

Nixon – I liked that the odds were different for every person. I like that it wasn’t fair like it was in real life.

Travis – I liked how we were shown how they were treated in the Gold Rush. How not everybody was treated fairly. It was realistic. I had a fun day; it was really good.

Ruby – I didn’t like the bushrangers because they took our money. But it was fun!

Emma – I love that we got a day to dress up for the Gold Rush and it was very fun!

Jessica Kuterovac

Year 5 Classroom Teacher

Tjupurru Incursion Kurri Kurri

On Monday 30^th June, the school’s Naidoc Week celebrations started with a visit from Tjupurru, a Brisbane based International Didgeridoo player who was initially inspired in his teens to take up the instrument after hearing the music of Gondwanaland. Tjupurru has since learnt to play the Didgeribone and performs all around the world playing this unipue instrument. The Didgeribone is a combination of a didgeridoo and a trombone and allows five notes to be played instead of the one note of a traditional didgeridoo. The students and staff were amazed with his talent, there was lots of laughter, clapping and good times had while learning about the Aboriginal music culture.

Mrs Lynch 

Aboriginal Education Worker 

Children’s University

On Thursday 26^th June 30 very excited primary students attended a Children’s University discovery day at the University of Newcastle. The students were split into two groups and with their university student leader, they explored four different areas of learning. The areas included history, pharmacy, drama, psychology and PE. Participation in the activities provided the students with an additional two hours to add to their university passport which will then contribute to their graduation success in October. Thank you to the Year 5 teachers Jess Kuterovac and Kerrie Korsmann for their enthusiasm and support they willingly give to the students’ and their learning through this program.

Some of our students reflected on their day at the university:

Ella “The activities that we did at Children’s University were very hands on which I liked. I really enjoyed the psychology session because we got to see how our mind reacted in different situations. It also taught us lessons about multitasking, quick thinking and working as a team”.

Payton “Our leader’s name was Maddie, and she was really energetic and friendly. She led us to the places we needed to go and saved us from getting lost in the big university. My favourite activity was history because we got to learn about the Greek culture where the teacher was from. We also got to design a badge about something special from our own culture and then the teacher made the badge for us to take home.”

Hudson “When we had lunch we watched someone mix chemicals to make elephant toothpaste”.

Tate “It was fun, I really enjoyed the drama activity and the show at recess. My favourite part was the drama and being able to act out on stage in front of people. We also got to go to the science lab, and we played a trivia game about what was medicine and what were lollies.”

Mrs Kuterovak and Mrs Lynch 

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School Fee Reminders

Important Fee Information

Thank you to all parents and carers for continuing to honour your fee agreements. We appreciate it. 

If you’ve chosen to pay fees in instalments, please note that your account will be considered in arrears if your first payment has not been received. To stay on track, please refer to the bottom of your statement for the payment amounts required to have your account paid in full by 30 November 2025.

If you’ve opted to pay your fees annually, your payment is due by 30 June 2025.

We understand that financial difficulties can arise. If you’re experiencing any challenges, please don’t hesitate to contact our office to arrange a confidential appointment with our Principal, Diane —we’re here to help.

Thank you for your attention and cooperation.

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Dates for Your Diary Kurri Kurri

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