Dear Parents and Caregivers,

Father’s Day Celebration

Last Friday morning we were blessed with a wonderful Father’s Day celebration here at school. It was a joy to see so many dads, grandfathers, and father-figures join us to share in games and activities with their children. The smiles, laughter, and sense of togetherness filled the playground and reminded us of the important role fathers play in the lives of our students.

A special thank you to our dedicated P & F Committee for their organisation and support in making the morning such a success. We are also very grateful to Café 80 for providing the delicious muffins that kept everyone energised as well as the coffee van for providing the much needed early morning caffeine hit.

It was a truly memorable way to celebrate Father’s Day, and we thank all who attended for making the morning such a joyful occasion. We look forward to celebrating in this way again next year.

Catholic Mission Month

Yesterday a special liturgy was held to celebrate the Diocesan Launch of Catholic Mission Month at Magdalene Catholic College, Narellan. The theme for the Catholic Mission in 2025 is "Missionaries of Hope Among All Peoples," a call inspired Pope Francis for the World Mission Day. This theme aligns with the 2025 Jubilee Year theme of "Pilgrims of Hope," emphasising unity, faith in action, and sharing hope with communities in need.

Warmest regards,

Mr Mitchell Elks
Principal

Our PB4L focus for Week 9 will be the Toilets 
In the explicit teaching lessons, the expected behaviours taught will be:
1. Walk to the toilet
2. Flush the toilet after use
3. Wash hands using one pump of soap
4. Be quiet during toilet visits
5. Walk quickly and quietly back to class

Examples of behaviours that negatively impact respectful, responsible and safe
behaviours in the Toilets to be taught include:
2. Running, playing or shouting in or near the toilet
3. Putting soap on the toilet floor
4. putting wet paper in the drain
5. Sticking wet paper on the walls or floor
6. Locking myself in the toilet
7. Putting toilet rolls into the toilet

Our PB4L focus for next week (Week 10) is Waste Management
In the explicit teaching lessons, the expected behaviours taught will be:
1. Putting my food waste in the compost bin 

2. Putting paper, cardboard, and hard plastics in the recycling bin
3. Putting foil, plastic bags, and Gladwrap in the rubbish bin
4.Taking uneaten food home in my lunchbox


Examples of behaviours that negatively impact on Respectful, Responsible
and Safe Waste Management to be taught include:
1. Throwing food scraps in the rubbish or the recycling bin.
2. Leaving my rubbish in the classroom, the breakout space or on the playground.
3. Throwing uneaten food away.

We would very much appreciate you discussing these weekly focuses with
your children and reviewing the expected and non-acceptable behaviours in
our endeavour to see that St Patrick’s is a more respectful, responsible, and
safe learning community for all.

PB4L Data
It is with pride that I inform you that in the last two weeks 23 students were
given Citizenship, Merit or Library Awards whilst there were  16 incidents of
Inappropriate behaviour recorded.

Kind regards
Mr Gavan Hoctor
Assistant Principal

Companions on the Journey – Spiritual Reflection

"R U OK? Day” is reflected in Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’, which calls us to care for one another, inspired by the example of Jesus, who noticed, listened, and reached out to those in need. By checking in with a simple “Are you OK?”, we affirm the dignity of every person and strengthen the bonds of compassion within our community.

This day also reflects our commitment to building a supportive and open workplace—one where we genuinely value each person’s wellbeing and make it a priority to check in on each other. We are better together!

This week, as we observe R U OK? Day, we are reminded of the profound importance of connection and compassion. This initiative encourages us to reach out and start conversations with those who might be struggling, offering support that could change a life.

This mission resonates deeply with the story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus (Lk 24:13-35). Two disciples were walking away from Jerusalem, their hearts heavy with disappointment after witnessing Jesus' crucifixion. They had hoped he would redeem Israel, and their expectations were shattered, leaving them sad and confused.

How often do we, or those we know, find ourselves in similar situations? Life's challenges and losses can leave us feeling uncertain and disoriented. We might be discussing our troubles without finding a clear path to hope. It is in this state of uncertainty that Jesus himself draws near and walks with them, though they did not recognise him. He asks them about their discussion, inviting them to share their pain and confusion.

This act of asking, of engaging with their story, is crucial. It's the essence of R U OK? Day: to be that compassionate presence, to ask the essential questions that can open a heart to hope and a new perspective. When we ask, “Are you okay?” we offer to walk alongside someone, inviting them to share what weighs on their hearts.

As they walked, Jesus patiently interpreted the scriptures, explaining that the Messiah had to suffer and then enter into his glory. As he spoke, their hearts began to burn within them. This "opening of the scriptures" can be a reminder for us to share wisdom, offer a hopeful perspective, or simply provide a listening ear that helps someone find clarity.

True connection often happens in shared moments of vulnerability and hospitality. When we offer our presence and genuine care, we create a space where others can feel seen and heard, rekindling hope.

Immediately after recognising Jesus, the disciples “got up and returned to Jerusalem” to share what happened. This highlights the transformative power of their encounter. On R U OK? Day, this means that our support doesn't end with a single conversation. We are called to encourage further help if needed and to foster a community where everyone feels valued.

Jesus is always beside us, even in our darkest moments, bringing hope and warming our hearts. On R U OK? Day, let us embrace the spirit of the Emmaus journey. Let us be attentive, ask questions, listen with compassion, and offer the presence of Christ through our care. A simple conversation truly can change a life.

On Friday 19 September at 2pm the P&F will be holding a second hand clothing stall. They will set up under the cola near the canteen.

Any donations can be dropped to the office foyer cupboards that are marked P&F uniform fundraiser.