Term 4, Week 10 (12 December 2023)
FROM THE PRINCIPAL'S DESK
Displaying a nativity scene in your home is a great way to remind everyone about the true meaning of Christmas: the Creator of the universe entering into creation in order to save it. Saint Francis of Assisi staged the first Nativity Scene in 1223, creating a scene depicting the nativity of Jesus as a way of teaching the people about the meaning of the Incarnation. According to Saint Bonaventure’s biography, The Life of Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Francis got permission from Pope Honorious III to set up a manger with hay and two live animals (an ox and an ass) in a cave in the Italian village of Grecio. He invited the villagers to look upon the scene while he preached about the ‘babe of Bethlehem’. Within a couple of centuries, the nativity scene’s popularity took off. Nativity scenes had spread throughout Europe. In later years, scenes began incorporating the characters of Mary and Joseph and the baby Jesus. Many families incorporate their own traditions when setting up the Nativity scene in their home. My family sets up our Nativity scene and we wait to place the baby Jesus in the manger on Christmas Eve. We also wait to put out the wise men until Gaudate Sunday, the third Sunday of Advent, placing them away from the manger, moving them a little bit closer every day until they “arrive” on the Feast of the Epiphany. The Christmas Story is a rich part of our Christian tradition and I personally enjoy filling our home with visual reminders as we anticipate the birth of Jesus.
I was excited to recently announce the appointment of our new Deputy Principal Mrs Toni Sillis. Toni is an experienced leader and educator in Catholic schools and the K-6 Curriculum. She has a particular strength and interest in Instructional Leadership and is looking forward to working with staff and students in the classroom and joining our Mater Dei community from 2024. Toni recently visited Mater Dei and met the staff during our Professional Learning Day.
Last week we farewelled our Year 12 students and formally acknowledged their contribution and achievements as a Mater Dei student. These students and their families have been part of the Mater Dei fabric for a significant time and each will leave their own unique mark and memory on our community. Their impact has not only been as individuals but as a Year 12 cohort, modelling the Benedictine values that we proudly claim as our own. We are immensely proud of every student and congratulate each one on their graduation from school.
On Monday evening I enjoyed the opportunity to celebrate this important milestone with the students and families during their Year 12 Formal at Rydges, Campbelltown. As graduates of Mater Dei, I know that they leave us as confident, courageous and kind young women and men as they embark on a life of adulthood, yet unknown. They have been impressive role models for all students and their level of maturity and pride in celebrating the end of school with their family and friends was certainly most evident.
To Tom, Saul, Jack, Cassie, Oli, Clare, Jordan, Breeana, Mischa, Jacob, Luke, Jordan and Nathan, remember to always dream big! Set your sights high and believe that you can achieve anything that you set your mind to. Don’t listen to anyone who wants to tell you that you can't! You proudly tell them that you are a Mater Dei student and “can’t” just isn’t an option for you. Every day is a new opportunity to be who you want to be.
Don't be afraid. Be determined. Be hopeful.
Be your own wonderful self!
Earlier this week we celebrated the end of Primary school with our Year 6 students. We spent the morning together splashing around at Camden Pools, followed by a picnic back at school where they were presented with their own personalised drink bottle. The Year 6 students enjoyed the company of each other, their teachers and TAs, and were given the opportunity to share some of their own memories of Year 6. It was an important day to spend together marking the end of their Primary school years, ready to take on the new and exciting challenges of High School.
During the past week we have celebrated the achievements of all students from Kindergarten to Year 12 in our end of year assemblies. Each student was presented with a folder containing their certificates. During both the Secondary Assembly and Primary Assembly, major awards were also presented. Congratulations to each student who received a major award:
- Mater Dei Peace Prize - Jack C
- Citizenship Award - Clare M, Oliver G & Maria I
- Student Commitment Award - Nathan D & Sarah V
- Year 12 Outstanding Student - Saul C
- Year 6 Outstanding Student - Corrado I
- Primary Performing Arts Award - Nate F
- Secondary Performing Arts Award - Breeana B
- Primary Sports Award - Lilly-Rose W
- Secondary Sports Award - Jack C
Congratulations also to our 2024 Students leaders from both Year 12 and Year 6. We all look forward to your leadership and example in 2024:
- School Captains - Torey F & Trey M
- Red House Captain - Justin B
- Green House Captain - Joel W
- Blue House Captain - Charlotte S
- Yellow House Captain - Jett C
- Primary Student Leaders - Hayden, Aryan P, Marco I & Rosie H
In preparing this final newsletter for 2023, I find myself fondly reflecting on the school year with a heart filled with gratitude. Like most, I feel that time passes so quickly and before we know it we are at the end of another school year. It is important to take a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the journey undertaken over the past year, to acknowledge the challenges, the many triumphs and celebrations, and the growth we've experienced as individuals and as a community. Our strength lies not only in our achievements but in the rich tapestry of diversity that characterises our School. The unique perspectives, talents, and experiences each individual brings have contributed to a vibrant and inclusive environment where learning extends beyond the classroom. I sincerely thank our dedicated Mater Dei staff who have tirelessly supported, encouraged and guided our students throughout the year. Their commitment to fostering a love of learning and personal growth is second to none. I also extend my gratitude to the parents, carers and families who have been actively involved and supported Mater Dei throughout the year. Your partnership with us is invaluable, and your support contributes significantly to the success of our students and the school. Together, as a strong and supportive community, we will continue to nurture the growth and success of our students, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. Finally, thank you for ‘filling my cup’. Mater Dei has given me more than I could have ever anticipated.
I extend my heartfelt Christmas wishes to each and every one of you. May this festive season bring joy, love, and peace. As we celebrate this joyous season, may the coming year be filled with new opportunities, growth, and an abundance of happiness. May the light of kindness and goodwill guide our paths, and may the spirit of Christmas inspire us to spread love and compassion wherever we go. As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, we are reminded that He is the Prince of Peace. May His presence dwell within us, guiding our thoughts, words, and actions toward the path of peace. In this prayer for peace at Christmas, in the midst of the festive lights and joyful celebrations, let us acknowledge the deep longing for tranquillity that resonates within hearts around the world. May the Christmas message of love, hope, and peace echo in our hearts and radiate through us into the world.
Lord Jesus, Prince of Peace,
As we gather in the warmth of this Christmas season, we come before you with hearts filled with hope, gratitude, and a yearning for peace.
In this sacred moment, we lift our voices in prayer for peace – a peace that transcends borders, bridges divides, and fills the hearts of all humankind. We pray for an end to strife and conflict, for understanding to replace misunderstanding, and for compassion to triumph over hatred.
We reflect on the message of that holy night when you entered into the world bringing the promise of peace on Earth and goodwill to all. May the light of that divine promise shine brightly in our hearts and inspire us to be peacemakers in our communities and beyond.
We pray for those living in areas marred by violence, that they may find solace in your comforting presence. May the innocent be protected, and may the hearts of those who perpetrate harm be softened by the light of your love.
We also remember those who are burdened by loneliness, grief, or hardship during this season. May your peace, which surpasses all understanding, envelop them in its comforting embrace.
In our homes and families, may the spirit of Christmas be a beacon of harmony. Help us to set aside our differences, forgive one another, and embrace the bonds that unite us. May the love that radiates from the manger in Bethlehem be the source of reconciliation and understanding among us.
Amen.
I wish everyone a blessed Christmas, an enjoyable and safe holiday season and a joyous start to the new year.
JENNIFER FOLDES
PRINCIPAL
SCHOOL NEWS
MISSION & VISION
The season of Advent began on Sunday, 3rd December.
The word Advent comes from the Latin "adventus", which means a coming, approach, or arrival. In the Catholic Church, it refers to the period encompassing the four Sundays prior to Christmas. It is a time of penance and hopeful, joyous preparation for the coming of the Saviour. The first Sunday of Advent gives us the opportunity to centre our thoughts on HOPE.
It's a beautiful chance to remember the HOPE God offers to us and that He has given us this through Jesus.
Almighty God,
we begin this Advent Season
as an ‘Advent People’ –
people of hope, ready to do your will.
Let your blessing come upon us
as we light this wreath.
May it turn our hearts to you
in the days ahead.
Grant us the peace and joy we long for,
as we await the coming of your Son
with patient hearts.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
VISIT TO WIVENOE VILLAGE
On the 23rd November, Mater Dei’s clever Kindergarten students and our fabulous Choir visited our friends and neighbours at Wivenhoe Village.
Our Kinders performed their Performing Arts Night hit, 'I Love Rock and Roll'! Our Choir sang four songs, including 'We Are The Champions', 'Let It Be' and 'Jingle Bells'! For the Beatles classic, the students incorporated Key Word Signing. Both residents and students enjoyed their interaction immensely.
We look forward to more gatherings next year!
SHARED LEARNING
Last week, our fellow Good Samaritan Education school, St Patrick’s College finished up their termly visits. These visits provide an opportunity for the girls to gain a deeper understanding of the talents and skills our students exhibit on a daily basis. We look forward to welcoming the St Patrick’s girls again in 2024! Our Benedictine Values of Justice & Peace and Community are nurtured and enriched consistently on a daily basis.
The aim of the Benedictine life is to find peace. It is not something that we sit about and wait for - we must pursue it, work for it, set out trying to achieve it . Peace is not another word for passive or disengaged or removed from the world. It is an active ordering of life so that peace is the outcome. Benedict is offering us a way to find peace in our hearts and beyond.
ST VINCENT DE PAUL'S CHRISTMAS APPEAL
For the first time as a school community, we supported the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Hamper Appeal in assisting struggling families during this time of year. A huge thank you to all of the families that donated grocery items, the response was amazing. In addition to the grocery items donated, we are able to purchase Woolworths Gift Vouchers to the amount of $950!
Thank you to everyone for your generosity and support in helping those in need.
SPORTS NEWS
2023 has been a massive year for our Sporting Super stars and this has been highlighted in the last two weeks.
On Monday 4th December the NSW Combined Catholic Colleges Blues Awards took place. This event brings together the top athletes from Catholic schools across the state to celebrate their outstanding achievements in 2023. This year Jack C was awarded a NSWCCC Blue Award for Athletics. This is the first time a Mater Dei student has received a CCC award. Congratulations Jack!
The week did not stop there for Jack. On Sunday 10th December, Jack competed in the Australian All Schools Athletics Championships in Perth. Jack ran a well planned race and won the Silver medal in a time 2:33.82. (photo)
Recently, we were contacted by NSWPSSA to advise that Rosie had broken the T21 Senior Girls Long Jump State Record, at the NSWPSSA Athletics Championships. Congratulations, Rosie!
WORKPLACE LEARNING
Workplace learning has now concluded for the year. Students have been very enthusiastic attending their work placements each week to learn and gain as much transferable experience as they can.
On Wednesday 15 November we welcomed our amazing WPL business hosts to a thank you morning tea. The business hosts presented students with certificates to acknowledge their achievements and new skills learned while in the workplace. We are truly grateful and give thanks to all the wonderful host businesses that support the workplace learning program. They generously give their time each week to provide our students with these amazing learning opportunities.
SEMESTER TWO REPORTS & 2024 CLASSES
Semester Two Reports are now available on Compass for families to view. Please refer to the Compass post for more information.
Please note, you will be able to access your child’s reports via the app/website at any point while they are enrolled at Mater Dei however we recommend that you download a copy of the report as you will no longer have access to the app/website once your child has left Mater Dei.
A Social Story, which includes your child's class and staffing for 2024 have been sent out via Compass this week.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
2024 UPDATED STUDENT DETAILS
In preparation for the 2024 school year, as well as for census related purposes, we have asked all families to complete an update of personal details for our school files. These forms were sent home via the student diaries in Week 7.
Thank you to the large number of families that have returned these forms. If you are yet to do so, kindly send your cmopleted forms to schooladmin@materdei.org.au.
YERONGA SCHOOL UNIFORMS HOLIDAY NOTICE
Yeronga Camden will be closing on Wednesday 20th of December 2023 at 5pm and will reopen on Wednesday 3rd of January 2024 at 9am.
Trading Hours will be:
- Monday, Wednesday & Thursday 9am-5pm
- Saturday 9am-1pm
Lines to get into the store can be long during January, so we ask parents to be patient. We may be asking all customers to wait until they are asked to enter the store to make sure we are not overcrowded and can serve each customer.
If you wish to avoid the queues, you can also order online from www.yerongauniforms.com
LABELLING UNIFORM ITEMS
Just a reminder to families to please label all items of clothing as this greatly helps us in finding the owner of any missing items.
COVID - CURRENT MEASURES IN PLACE
Given we are a high risk, disability setting, we wish to remind families of the mandatory 7 day isolation requirement remains in place at Mater Dei for all staff and students who test positive to COVID.
Students should not attend Mater Dei if unwell or displaying COVID symptoms and only return after completing isolation and/or when symptom free.
MAISY'S CORNER
A Pawsome Farewell to an Incredible School Year!
As we stand at the threshold of another year's end, it's time to reflect on our shared experiences, triumphs, and growth. In the heart of our school family, there's a furry friend who has wagged her way into our hearts and become an integral part of our school's wellbeing journey.
Our beloved school wellbeing dog, Maisy, has been a source of comfort, joy, and boundless affection throughout the year. Whether she greeted us with wagging tails at taxi, provided a listening ear during challenging moments, or simply offered a paw to hold during stressful times, Maisy has played a vital role in nurturing the emotional health and happiness of our school community.
In the hallways, classrooms, and school events, Maisy has been a constant reminder of the importance of mindfulness, kindness, and the simple joys of life. Her unconditional love has helped alleviate stress, fostered a sense of connection, and created a positive and inclusive atmosphere that extends beyond the traditional academic setting.
EVENTS
PAST EVENTS UPDATE:
On Monday all of our staff participated in CPR and First Training presented by Wave Learning. This training is very important for all staff to maintain their knowledge and expertise in responding to and managing situations that may require first aid to be conducted.
SWIMMING CARNIVAL 2024
2024 IMPORTANT DATES
HELPFUL REMINDERS
PARENT FORMS AND SCHOOL DOCUMENTATION
School documentation and common forms are stored in Compass for parents to access at any time. Parent Forms can be found by following these steps on your Compass App:
(Steps 1-3 are for App users only)
- Click on the student
- Click on the 3 lines in top left corner
- Click Open in Browser
- Click on Community Icon (2 heads)
- Click on School Documentation
- Click Parent Forms
ATTENDANCE EXEMPTION FORMS
Any families who wish to apply for attendance exemptions to attend therapy services in 2023, please download the Application for Leave Exemption form on Compass, complete and return to schooladmin@materdei.org.au
2023 AFTERNOON ARRANGEMENTS
In the event of either of the following:
- Student needs to be collected by a different family member or family friend over 18 years of age
- Student needs to be collected by parent INSTEAD of usual taxi arrangement for a specified day
Parent/Guardian is required to advise the school of the change, and MUST include the full name of person collecting, PRIOR to 2:30pm on the day of the change. This may be done via one of the following options:
- Noting change in student diary
- Phoning School Reception on ph. 4655 7481
- Emailing schooladmin@materdei.org.au
If your child needs to be collected by a service provider - a Parent/Guardian is required to complete a Collection by a Service Provider form (available on Compass) and email it to schooladmin@materdei.org.au
This form must be received PRIOR to 2:30pm on the day before the new arrangement is to take place.
If unable to provide the full name of the staff member collecting, the Parent/ Guardian is required to arrange the Service Provider to notify the school via schooladmin@materdei.org.au email by 2:30pm on the day the student is to be collected.
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