Term 1 Week 1 2024

Hello friends 

A very warm, welcome to our families and community members for the 2024 school year. A particular welcome to our new families beginning their, educational journey here at Christ the King School this year.  

I hope and trust that all community members had a blessed and safe Christmas period and enjoyed a happy New Year.  

Our staff members returned to work on Monday, 22 January taking part in professional development sessions and setting up learning spaces ready for students return on Tuesday, 30 January.  

I share with you, the words that I spoke with staff at the beginning of our school year. 

As we gather here today to embark on a new School year, I am reminded of the wise words of Lee Kuan Yew, a visionary leader from Singapore who once said, "Never fear making enemies by doing what is right, because what is right will eventually become the lasting consensus." 

Today, we stand on the threshold of a journey—a journey of learning, growth, and discovery. Just like a captain navigating a ship through uncharted waters, we are here to guide and support each other, our young minds, as we set sail into the seas of knowledge and understanding. 

Lee Kuan Yew's words remind us that there may be challenges ahead, and sometimes, doing what is right may not always be the popular choice. But let us be fearless in the pursuit of knowledge, kindness, and excellence. In this school, we value integrity, compassion, and the courage to stand up for what is just and fair. 

Let our classrooms be not just spaces for acquiring facts and figures; they are arenas for the development of character, resilience, and a sense of responsibility. As we step into our new classes, remember that every lesson is an opportunity to grow, and every challenge is a chance to prove to ourselves that we are capable of overcoming obstacles. 

To our parents, guardians, and family members, we thank them for entrusting us with the precious task of nurturing and educating their children. Together, we will instil in them the values that will shape not only their academic success but also their contributions to society. 

As we begin this academic year, let us foster an environment of curiosity, collaboration, and respect. Embrace diversity, for it is in the tapestry of our differences that we find strength and richness. Let us encourage one another to explore, question, and discover the world around us. 

In the words of Lee Kuan Yew, "We must always be on the lookout for the new ways of doing things. As the world changes, we must change with it." So, let us embark on this academic journey with open hearts and open minds, ready to adapt, innovate, and create a future that is bright and promising. 

Respect is the cornerstone of any harmonious community. It is about recognising and valuing the differences that make each one of us special. Whether it's a classmate, a teacher, or a staff member, let us approach every interaction with a genuine sense of respect. By embracing diversity and treating each other with dignity, we lay the foundation for a school culture that thrives on understanding and unity. 

Communication is the key to building strong connections. Let us strive to be active listeners, to understand before being understood. Encourage our classmates and workmates to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas. In doing so, we foster an atmosphere where everyone's voice is heard, and collective wisdom can flourish. Remember, an open line of communication can turn challenges into opportunities for growth and learning. 

Kindness, the simplest yet most powerful act, can transform the world around us. Small acts of kindness ripple through our community, creating a positive and supportive atmosphere. Reach out to those who may need a friend, offer a helping hand, and create a culture where compassion is second nature. In the words of Lee Kuan Yew, "Kindness is the greatest wisdom." 

As we embark on this journey together, let these principles guide our actions and interactions. Let us create a school environment where respect, communication, and kindness are not just words but living values that shape our daily lives. 

Parents, thank you for entrusting us with the education and well-being of your children. We pledge to create an environment that fosters growth, curiosity, and a love for learning. 

Students, you are the heart of our school. Embrace each day with enthusiasm, be curious, and remember that you are part of a caring and supportive community. Together, let us make this school year a chapter filled with joy, growth, and lifelong friendships. 

Let the journey of the new school year begin with respect, communication, and kindness leading the way. 

May this school year be filled with joy, growth, and meaningful experiences for each and every one of you. Welcome back, and let the adventure begin! 

Each child will settle into the school year and their new class at different rates. Our younger students may experience some tiredness as their learning stamina grows. Communicate your child's well being with your teacher and this way we are aware of how children are feeling and can differentiate the learning loads through the day. 

We name the first two weeks of school as “CTK Matters”. Throughout the first two weeks of school, children have the opportunity to get to know their teacher and re-engage in relationships with their peers, class expectations, and routines. 

Positive conversations about your child’s school day will help them settle into school life much quicker, and if you have any questions about your child’s academic progress at any stage, I encourage you to make a time to speak with your child’s class teacher. 

“Knowledge is the information you gain in the classroom, wisdom is what you learn outside of the classroom.” (Anon) 

Playground 

Final designs, will be made available to the student body over the coming week or so and construction of a new Playground space will most likely occur at the end of Term 2, and during the Term 2 holidays ready for action in Term 3. 

Uniform 

As we begin the new school year, I ask that parents be mindful and adhere to our uniform and ask that the students appear at school each day in the correct school uniform and the correct sports uniform. There appears to be a number of students at present who are wearing sport shoes rather than the black school shoes with the school uniform. Your co-oporation in this area is greatly appreciated.  

“No matter how hard the past is, you can always begin again.” Buddha. 

Thanks and Blessings  

Matt Perry  

Principal

Welcome back to our 2024 School Year. It always feels a little weird to greet people with Happy New Year this late in January but as we come together as a community it is really our New Year celebrations. So I wish each of you ‘Happy New Year.” I was fortunate during the break to travel overseas and it is always a wonderful feeling on returning to our shores, much like we hope our students feel returning through our gates this week.

Last week the staff gathered for a mass at St Joseph’s church and each member brought along a symbol of HOPE for their year ahead. Forms of this task will be happening in our classes this week as students introduce themselves to their class teacher, welcome new classmates and new routines.

One of my favourite quotes from Pope Francis: "May the church be the place of God's mercy and love, where everyone can feel themselves welcomed, loved, forgiven and encouraged to live according to the good life of the Gospel. This is our constant aim here at Christ the King and will be guided by this year‘s theme.

‘Seeing with the Eyes of Our Heart’

At Mass this Friday we will begin our year of prayer and we invite all members of our community to join with us and help us bless the year.

Community Mass

We will gather for mass on Friday 2nd February, 9am in the Samaritan Hall. All members are welcome. If you have not attended a mass before please know our masses are very gentle and easy to join in.

Sacraments

We are hoping to receive the dates for 2024 Confirmation soon. Dates will be published in the next newsletter and sent home to candidates who completed Reconciliation in 2023.

Teresa Pascoe
APRIM
(Assistant Principal Religious Identity and Mission)

ALLERGY AWARE - IMPORTANT

Christ the King School is an ALLERGY AWARE SCHOOL. 

As an allergy aware school, we endeavour to: 

Educate staff, students and families at Christ the King School about how certain products can cause an allergic reaction for some people. 

Build awareness about how students and families can ensure a safe environment at school for students with allergies. 

In the interest of our students’ welfare, we are seeking your support and cooperation with the following: 

Do not send/bring in any boiled eggs, egg sandwiches, nuts or nut products to school – please check labels. 

Remind your child NOT to share any food with any other students. 

Consult with your child’s classroom teacher regarding appropriate birthday treats. 

When sending food for class parties it is desirable that the ingredients are labelled.  Please do not send anything that may contain nuts for sharing. 

If you have any queries regarding this matter, please contact your child’s class teacher or the school office. 

For more information about allergies go to allergyaware.org.au