Term 1, Week 10, 10 April 2025
Principal's Message
Dear St John's Families,
As the final bell rings today, marking the start of a well-deserved holiday, I write to you reflecting on a truly engaging and memorable Term 1 at St John's Primary School. It has been a term filled with connection, growth, and a vibrant celebration of learning.
From the very beginning, our Meet and Greet provided a wonderful opportunity to build connections and foster a strong sense of community. It was lovely to see so many families connecting with teachers and each other. Throughout the term, our commitment to open communication continued with our Coffee and Conversation session, offering valuable opportunities for dialogue and partnership. We will continue this initiative.
The energy and enthusiasm for learning have been palpable in our classrooms. Our students have embraced new concepts and challenges with admirable dedication. We've also had the pleasure of celebrating their achievements during our Celebrations of Learning, showcasing the wonderful progress they have made. Furthermore, it has been a joy to see different classes sharing their learning at assembly, fostering confidence and allowing students to proudly present their hard work to the wider school community.
Our term was also enriched by our meaningful Holy Week celebration, providing a time for reflection and understanding as a school community. This important event allowed our students to connect with the significance of this time of year.
Of course, Term 1 was also filled with exciting sporting events. The Interhouse Swimming Carnival earlier in the term showcased fantastic aquatic skills and spirited house rivalry. Just this week, we witnessed incredible determination and teamwork at the Interhouse Cross Country. Congratulations to all participants for their efforts and sportsmanship!
Our dedicated teachers and support staff have once again gone above and beyond in creating a nurturing and stimulating learning environment for our students. Their passion, creativity, and unwavering commitment are the cornerstones of our school's success, and I extend my sincere gratitude for their tireless work.
We deeply value the strong partnership we share with our parents and guardians. Your involvement and support are invaluable to our students' success and the strength of our school community. Thank you for attending our various events, engaging in conversations about your child's learning, and for your continued trust in St John's.
As the holidays begin tomorrow, I encourage everyone to take this time to relax, recharge, and enjoy quality time with loved ones. We hope you have a safe, happy, and restful break.
We eagerly look forward to welcoming our students back for Term 2 on Tuesday, 29th April. We have an exciting term ahead!
Wishing you all a wonderful holiday.
Warm regards,
Dave
Keeping School Funding Fair – What You Need to Know
Did you know that 6 in 10 Australians don’t fully understand how school funding works?
Catholic Schools NSW has launched the Keep School Funding Fair campaign to ensure families have access to clear and accurate information.
Our schools play a vital role in providing high-quality education while keeping costs affordable for families. A fair, means-tested funding model ensures all students are supported, no matter their background.
Visit keepfundingfair.org.au or watch the explainer video below to learn more and take action.
If the state and federal government were to withdraw all support from
Term 2 Afterschool Activities
We have organised some after school activities again for Term 2. For more information and to register, please fill out the ONLINE FORM.
Payment for the activities can be made to the front office.
Drama and Movement Class (Yrs 3-6 only)
- Monday 3pm-4 pm (in the assembly room)
- 8 Weeks starting in Week 2
- $120 for the term
Jiu Jitsu (5 - 7 years) - 2 session per week
- Monday 3pm-4pm & Tuesday 3pm-4pm
- 10 Weeks starting in Week 1$
- 250 for the term
Rainbow Kids Yoga (all ages)
- Wednesday 3pm-4pm
- 10 Weeks starting in Week 1
- $150 for the term
Jiu Jitsu (8 - 12 years) - 2 session per week
- Thursday 3pm-4pm & Friday 3pm-4pm
- 10 Weeks starting in Week 1
- $250 for the term
* Please note that all of these activities occur after school operating hours and are completely independent of the school. Once the students are in the activity facilitator's care, the duty of care for your children lies with them.
WELL BEING @ ST JOHN'S
Parent Tips for Thriving in the School Holidays
It seems unfeasible that we’ve reached week ten already and the school holidays are about to commence!
I know that the children are ready for a well-earned break as are all the staff. Looking back and reflecting on the term from a ‘Wellbeing and Pastoral Care’ perspective I think one of our most significant achievements has been the smooth transition of the children to their new learning environments and of course welcoming our new families and students. The result is a cohesive and collaborative school environment in the learning spaces and on the playground. It’s a really significant achievement and everyone plays their part: parents, students, teachers and ancillary staff. A huge thank you to all of the parents for your support of your children and the school during the term.
For some families the school holidays can be challenging. I know that there are no magic solutions to the challenges that holidays may present, however, I am sharing some tips below from other families collated by Open Universtities Australia.
Happy Easter & happy holidaying
Best regards, Greg
Create a school holiday program planner
Lisa Price gets her family together and brainstorms ideas, activities and social outings. Everything goes into a family calendar that’s hung in the kitchen and decorated with stickers and drawings. That way, everyone in the family knows what’s happening and when, which helps her plan her time and feel in control.
A bonus tip from Lisa: she uses Paddlepop sticks with a (free or paid) activity written on them for lucky dip days.
Form a pool with other parents
“So, say you’re in this ‘pool’ with four other sets of parents. One parent takes all the kids for a day while the rest run errands, work or study in peace,” states Clare.
“Big plus—instead of taking ten days of leave from work, you might be able to take just two.”
Of course, you’ll have to negotiate the rules with your pool members—a regular day per week with a roster? On an ad hoc basis? If so, with how much notice?
Block out a regular but realistic time to connect with your kids
Some experts recommend starting each day with play time—by satisfying their need for connection early in the day, they’re less likely to feel the need to interrupt you while you’re working or studying.
"I do this. Play time is followed by some solo time (within sight) and lunch. Then, while my younger one sleeps, I power through work and we do stuff together again in the afternoon,” says Clare.
Wear them out
This is sage advice that can probably be applied year-round! Clare says, “Make sure they get enough physical activity so that they go bed on time. For example, choose a tennis school holiday program. Of course, you’ll need to balance that with days of rest.”
Encourage self-directed activity
When they’re stuck home with you and you have looming study deadlines, you need them to occupy themselves while you frantically work.
Clare suggests, “Once they can read, you could give them an ‘assignment’ based on something they’ve asked about that week. Tell them ‘go find out about lizards and come back in an hour, we’ll trade what we learnt’.”
Kelsie Prabawa-Sear, CEO of Nature Play WA, gets her kids to make lists of things that make them happy, like dancing, humming, reading, listening to music and playing outside.
When they tell her ‘I’m bored’, she directs them to check their lists and pick something to do. When they ask her for screen time, she insists they first complete an outdoor activity—riding their bike around the block three times or pulling out ten weeds, which usually ‘stretches into an hour of nature play’.
“What I’m really giving to them is the opportunity to feel the breeze in their hair, smell a flowering Wedding Bush, to play without the adult gaze on them and maybe even work out some of their sibling niggles,” she says.
Finally, know that you are doing your best and feel good about it
Do not let those feelings of ‘I could be a better student/employee/parent’ get to you.
We’ll even put ourselves out there and guess that one big reason you’re working this hard is to better provide for the little ratbags currently ripping apart the living room while cackling like hyenas who’ve just found a wildebeest carcass.
Okay, big deep breaths… you’ve got this.
Mission News
Journey of Faith: Sacramental Program 2025
Dear St John’s Families,
We are pleased to announce the upcoming Parish Sacramental Program for the 2025 school year. This sacred journey marks a pivotal time in your child's faith formation as they prepare to receive the Sacraments that will deepen their relationship with Christ and our St John’s Church community.
Important Dates to Remember
Parent Information Night
Thursday, May 15th, 2025 at 4:00 pm
Our Lady of Lourdes Church Brunswick Heads (followed by Mass at 5:00 pm)
Sacrament of Confirmation
Thursday, June 5th, 2025 at 5:00 pm
St. John's Church, Mullumbimby
Sacrament of Reconciliation
Thursday, September 11th, 2025 at 4:30 pm
Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Brunswick Heads
Sacrament of First Holy Communion
Sunday, November 16th, 2025 at 8:00 am
St. John's Church, Mullumbimby
A Journey Together
The Sacramental Program is a special time not only for your children but for the whole family. Your active participation in this journey is invaluable as you walk alongside your child in faith.
The Parent Information Night on May 15th is essential for all families with children participating in the Sacramental Program this year. During this meeting, we will provide detailed information about each Sacrament, the preparation process, and what you can do at home to support your child's spiritual growth.
Preparation and Support
In the weeks leading up to each Sacrament, your child will be prepared through classroom instruction and special preparation sessions. As parents, you will receive resources to help continue these conversations at home.
Remember that your example and encouragement are the most powerful tools in nurturing your child's faith.
Questions?
If you have any questions or if your child is doing one of the Sacraments this year, please contact me at the email below.
We look forward to accompanying you and your child on this beautiful faith journey.
Caritas Project Donation Boxes: A Reminder
Time to Return Your Caritas Donation Boxes
As we approach the end of term, we would like to remind all families who have not yet returned their Caritas Project donation boxes to please do so early next term. Your contributions, no matter how small, make a meaningful difference in the lives of those less fortunate in our global community.
Where to Return Your Donation
Please bring your Caritas donation boxes to Tundra at the front office. She will ensure that all donations are properly recorded and forwarded to Caritas Australia for their vital humanitarian work.
The Impact of Your Generosity
The funds collected through our Caritas Project support essential programs that provide education, healthcare, clean water, and emergency relief to communities in need around the world. This is a wonderful opportunity for our children to learn about the importance of compassion and social justice in action.
If you have already returned your donation box, we extend our heartfelt thanks for your prompt response and generosity.
Thank you for supporting this important initiative and helping our school community demonstrate Christ's love through practical action.
With gratitude,
Ellie Bailey
ellie.bailey@lism.catholic.edu.au
Leader of Mission
SPORT
Cross Country
What a fantastic day we had at our Cross Country Carnival held at the Mullumbimby Leagues Club this week! The sun was shining, the skies were clear, and the energy from our students was absolutely contagious.
It was wonderful to see so many students giving their all—running with determination, cheering on their peers, and showing great sportsmanship throughout the day. Their enthusiasm and commitment made the event a true celebration of perseverance and team spirit.
A big thank you to all the parents and families who joined us to help out, cheer from the sidelines, and create such a positive atmosphere. Your support makes days like these extra special for our students.
Congratulations to everyone who participated—you made us proud!
Cross Country
SCHOOL INFORMATION
"HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU"
Our Birthday people who will celebrate during the Autumn Holidays
Alexander, Lucia & Bernie
RAINBOW KIDS YOGA
I am giving a FREE Family Yoga class this Saturday at The Paddock, Mullumbimby, and it can be a fantastic opportunity for parents and kids to come and check out what we do in yoga at the school.
Images are attached and text is below for you to add it to your newsletter today - Thanks!
FREE Family Yoga This Saturday at The Paddock! 
Dear St. John’s Families,
Looking for a joyful way to connect, move, and relax as a family? Come join us for a FREE Family Yoga class this Saturday at 10 AM at The Paddock in Mullumbimby, as part of their vibrant community Garage Sale event!
This is a wonderful chance for parents and children to experience the magic of yoga together—the same kind of fun, mindful, and heart-centered practice your children enjoy right here at school.
All ages and levels welcome—whether you’re brand new to yoga or a seasoned yogi, this class is all about togetherness, laughter, and feeling good in our bodies and hearts.
Also in Term 2 - St. John’s Kids Yoga happens at St John's Hall every Wednesday at 3 PM, and this Saturday session is a perfect opportunity to come and see what it’s all about!
Let’s breathe, stretch, play, and connect—because families that move together, grow together. 
When: Saturday, 10 AM
Where: The Paddock, Mullumbimby (during the Garage Sale!)
Who: YOU and your amazing family!
I can’t wait to share this special experience with you!
With love and light,
Gopala Amir Yaffa
Rainbow Kids Yoga
0400 548 834
Yoga At School
On April 29, the first day of school, I will do a 30 minutes demo in each of the 4 classrooms including chair yoga, breathing and mindfulness so the kids can get more exposure to what we do!
Mothers Day Event
On Wednesday, May 7th at 3pm, we will hold a special family yoga class event for Mothers day (Mothers day is on that weekend, May 11th).
COMMUNITY NOTICES
