Term 3, Week 8 - Tuesday 9 September 2025

PRINCIPAL'S ADDRESS

Living Our Faith Through Care for Creation

As we transition into the vibrant season of spring, I am reminded of the words from the Book of Ecclesiastes: “He has made everything beautiful in its time” (Ecclesiastes 3:11). This time of renewal is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the beauty of creation, the joy of new beginnings, and the promise of growth, both in nature and in our hearts. Spring also invites us to renew our commitment to being stewards of God’s creation. As Pope Francis reminds us in Laudato Si’, we are called to “care for our common home.” 

Our staff recently spent the day together for our Spirituality Day at The Hermitage, the Marist Brothers Retreat Centre in Mittagong. It was a deeply enriching and reflective day, facilitated by Jacqui Remond, co-founder of the Global Catholic Climate Movement (now Laudato Si’ Movement) and a passionate advocate for care of creation. Our day centred on Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’, which calls us to embrace integral ecology, a vision of interconnectedness that unites care for the environment with care for humanity. Jacqui’s insights into integral ecology guided us to reflect on the interconnectedness of all aspects of creation; our relationship with God, with one another, and with the natural world. We explored how environmental degradation, social inequality, and human dignity are all deeply intertwined, and how we, as educators, can empower our students to respond to these challenges with compassion and action.

I came away from the day with key questions to challenge our thinking as a Mater Dei staff  and I hope that you can apply these to your own families:

• How can our school community live out the principles of Laudato Si’ in meaningful ways?
• What practices can we adopt personally and collectively to care for our common home?
• How can we help students see the connection between their faith and their responsibility to care for the environment and others?

Last week we recognised Teacher Assistant Appreciation Week, a special time dedicated to recognising the remarkable contributions of our Teacher Assistants (TAs). It was a wonderful opportunity to express our gratitude for the vital role they play in supporting our students, teachers, and families, working tirelessly to ensure that every child is supported, encouraged, and nurtured. They bring patience, kindness, and dedication to everything they do, whether it’s assisting with classroom activities, providing one-on-one support, or helping to create an inclusive environment where all students feel valued. In particular, our TAs reflect Gospel values through their compassion and care, and through their commitment to fostering the dignity and potential of every child. On behalf of our school community, I extend my deepest thanks to our Teacher Assistants. You are an essential part of our school family, and we are blessed to have you with us.

It is with great joy and gratitude that I reflect on the wonderful occasion of the recent official Blessing and Opening of our Covered Outdoor Learning Area (COLA). We were deeply honoured to welcome Bishop Brian Mascord, who led us in a beautiful blessing liturgy. His words reminded us of the importance of creating spaces where learning, community, and faith can intersect. Bishop Brian’s prayer for this new space called upon God’s guidance and protection, ensuring that this area becomes a place where our children and staff can gather, grow, and thrive in a spirit of collaboration and care.  I am also grateful that Fr James Arblaster from St Pauls Parish Camden could join Bishop Brian for the blessing and opening, as their presence ensured that our celebration was centered in prayer and liturgy. 

As a small school, we could not access the resources that we do without the very generous support of the wider Mater Dei Community. Our Covered Outdoor Learning Area was made possible through such support and I can confidently say that it has made such a significant difference for our whole school. I am particularly appreciative of the funding that was received from the State Government that contributed to the construction of our COLA. A significant portion of the overall costs of this project was raised during the 2021 Mater Dei Foundation Dinner and I acknowledge the many local businesses who have had a lasting connection with and commitment to Mater Dei, across all of our programs. Likewise, donations from the Campbelltown Catholic Club and Wests Group Macarthur in giving back to the Community, also contributed to the completion of our COLA. The Mater Dei Foundation Dinner Committee work tirelessly both leading up to and on the night of our annual Dinner to raise the funds needed for various projects across our Organisation for the benefit of our children in Mater Dei ECEC, the students in our school and for the participants in Next Path Continuous Learning.  We do not take for granted the generous support that we receive, from individuals, from local businesses, from larger corporations, and from local and state Government bodies.  

During our recent Parents and Friends (P&F) meeting, a discussion took place regarding proposed changes to the current P&F Constitution. As a living document, the Constitution provides the framework to guide the activities, decision-making, and governance of the P&F. Updating it ensures that it remains relevant, reflective of current needs, and aligned with the evolving goals of our school and community.

The discussion focused on several proposed changes, which were presented to provide greater clarity, flexibility, and inclusivity in the way the P&F operates. These changes aim to:

• Enhance transparency in decision-making processes.
• Encourage broader participation from parents, caregivers, and members of our community.
• Align with current best practices for governance and compliance.
• Support the mission and values of our Catholic school in all P&F initiatives.

I was heartened by the thoughtful and respectful dialogue that took place during the meeting. Parents and carers shared their insights, asked questions, and provided valuable feedback on the proposed changes. It was wonderful to see the strong sense of partnership and shared commitment to ensuring that the P&F continues to thrive as a vital part of our school community. The proposed changes to the Constitution are outlined below and feedback or comment can be provided from our parents and carers via the schooladmin@materdei.org.au email. Once finalised, these changes will be presented for approval at the next P&F meeting in November.

• Clause 7.3 concerning Terms of Office:  Limiting the Executive roles of President, Treasurer and Secretary to three consecutive years of service. In addition, the time served on the Executive Committee would be limited to a period of 5 consecutive years. Some flexibility may be required given the size of the school, to maintain P&F viability.
• Clause 13 be updated to reflect that meetings will be held once per term in Week 5, rather than monthly. An option for virtual meetings/attendance will also be included. 

I thank all those who attended the meeting and contributed to the discussion. Your time, energy, and commitment to our school is deeply appreciated. Our Parents and Friends group plays an essential role in fostering a sense of community, supporting the school, and enhancing the educational experience for our students.

R U OK? Day, is a national day of action dedicated to encouraging us to check in with one another by asking the simple but powerful question: “Are you OK?” As a Catholic school, this day aligns with our faith and values, reminding us of our shared responsibility to care for one another, especially those who may be struggling. Core to our Catholic faith is the call to love and care for others. In the Gospel of John, Jesus reminds us, “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:12). R U OK? Day will provide an opportunity for us to live out this commandment by showing compassion, empathy, and kindness to those around us. Checking in with a friend, colleague, or family member is a simple yet meaningful way to show solidarity and care.

While R U OK? Day will serve as a significant moment of reflection and action, its message is one we are called to live out every day. As a school, we remain committed to creating a community where every student, staff member, and family feels safe, valued, and supported. I encourage all families to continue these conversations at home. By asking, “Are you OK?” and taking the time to listen, we can make a real difference in the lives of others. Let us also remember to keep those who are struggling in our prayers, trusting in God’s love and care for them.

St Benedict reminds us that all people are to be welcomed and cared for as if they are Christ. 

Lord, inspire us to embody this teaching by seeing Your presence in every person we meet. May we treat each other with dignity and respect, offering encouragement and hope to those who are struggling.

Guide us to create a spirit of solidarity and support, where no one in our community feels alone. May we listen deeply to the needs of others, just as St Benedict taught us to listen to Your voice in prayer and in the world around us.

We pray for those who feel burdened, anxious, or lost. May they feel Your love through the kindness of others. Help us to be Your hands and feet, bringing comfort, joy, and peace to their lives.

Lord, as we reflect on the teachings of St Benedict, may we always strive to "prefer nothing to the love of Christ," letting that love shape how we care for one another. May this day remind us of the power of connection and the importance of community in lifting each other up.

We ask this through Jesus Christ, Your Son, and in the spirit of St Benedict’s wisdom.

Amen.

JENNIFER FOLDES
PRINCIPAL

FROM THE DEPUTY PRINCIPAL'S DESK

Mater Dei attends The Greater Narellan Business Chamber Annual Breakfast

I had the pleasure to meet Zack at the Menangle Country Club for The Greater Narellan Business Chamber’s Annual Breakfast.

The Hon. Daniel Mookhey (NSW State Treasurer) was the guest speaker sharing valuable insights into the state’s economic direction and the approach the state government is taking to address issues such as the cost of living and housing affordability.

It was a wonderful opportunity for Mater Dei School to be represented by one of our senior student leaders amongst the other senior student leaders of many schools across the Macarthur region. 

Zack proudly wore his school uniform, introducing himself to many people throughout the morning. Zack was particularly excited to meet Mr Mookhey exclaiming on the way back to school, ‘I can’t actually believe I met him!’

Thank You!

Mater Dei School staff and students thank the P&F who have generously donated funds which will be allocated to the purchase of MultiLit resources. 

It is an exciting moment when parents acknowledge the success of teachers when using an evidenced-based program such as MultiLit. 

MultiLit is a research initiative of Macquarie University Special Education Centre (MUSEC) that has been researching how best to teach children who struggle to learn to read since 1990.

ASTP Parent/Carer/Family Responsibilities

In accepting use of ASTP services, families agree to responsibilities around boarding and alighting students from the vehicles. In line with ASTP guidelines, parents have a number of important responsibilities when their child is on assisted school travel, including:

• Be ready 15 minutes before the pick-up and drop-off time.
• Wait at the agreed safe pick-up and drop-off location outside your home to meet the vehicle.
• You must help your child get into the vehicle, ensure your child is safely seated with their seat belt buckled according to the road rules.
• Provide an Australian approved child restraint or booster seat where appropriate (AS/NZS 1754).
• Provide additional equipment, if required, for safe travel such as seat belt buckle covers, specialised transport harnesses, and any medical equipment.
• Assist travel staff in loading and securing your child and their mobility equipment such as wheelchairs and walkers.
• Communicate any additional needs your child might have on transport to the school and travel staff.
• Call the driver and school if your child is going to be absent from school.
• Contact the school if your details or circumstances change such as work commitments, address or phone numbers.
• Speak to the school if your child's health needs change.

ASTP drivers are unable to sound their horns as it is against the law to do so unless in an emergency situation. Drivers are also not responsible for calling parents to advise of their arrival.

Parents are not required to do the seatbelt buckle up for the student if the student is physically able to, however parents hold full responsibility for ensuring their child is safely seated with their buckle on. This requires parents to enter larger vehicles, such as a minibus and may not be actionable when standing at the door of a vehicle.

ASTP drivers have also been advised that If the student is not ready at the agreed pick-up time, wait a maximum of three minutes, phone the parent(s) before going to the next pick-up address.

Further information on parent responsibilities can be located on the ASTP website in the ‘Parents’ page, or in the ASTP procedures.

National Child Protection Week (7-13 September)

The 2025 theme for National Child Protection Week is:

‘EVERY CONVERSATION MATTERS: Shifting Conversation to Action’

This year’s theme highlights that while open discussions are crucial, words alone are not enough: we must turn dialogue into meaningful action.

The National Association for Prevention of Child abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN) acknowledges that while conversations can raise awareness, challenge harmful norms, and spark new ideas, real change happens when we take steps to create safer environments for children that prevent them from harm.

This year, NAPCAN are focusing on moving beyond conversations to concrete actions that prevent harm and instead, focusing on strengthening support systems, and empowering communities to actively protect children.

By shifting from conversation to action, we all can ensure that every child not only feels heard but also experiences real safety, care, and protection.

At Mater Dei School, we acknowledge Child Protection Week as an important opportunity to highlight our strong Child Protection strategies and support of children and young people across our school.

R U O K?

Thursday 11 September

R U OK? is a national suicide prevention charity and registered public health promotion that encourages people to stay connected and have conversations that can help others through difficult times.

Got a feeling that someone you know or care about isn’t behaving as they normally would? Perhaps they seem out of sorts? More agitated or withdrawn? Or they’re just not themselves. Trust that gut instinct and act on it. Learn more about the signs and when it's time to ask R U OK? here.

Summer Uniform Change:

Students were able to wear their Summer uniforms from Monday. At parents' discretion, some students may continue to wear their Winter uniform over the next couple of weeks depending upon the weather.

As we prepare for the warmer months, it will be important to remind students of Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek & Glide. The video below will help to reinforce this message.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FzA47J7QsVk&list=RDFzA47J7QsVk&start_radio=1

Families can help by:

• modelling sun protection practices to their children
• applying a broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 50 or 50+ sunscreen to their children before coming to school
• sending their child to school with a sun safe hat each day
• sending your child to school with a water bottle and encouraging them to drink throughout the day
• sending your children to school with a hat and encouraging them to wear it.

The NSW Health Beat the Heat webpage includes information on how to prepare for and stay healthy in the heat, how to recognise and treat heat related illness, and how to care for people who are at risk of heat-related illness.

TONI SILLIS
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL

STAFF NEWS

At the end of this Term, Mater Dei will farewell two long serving staff members from our Support Services Team. Mrs Katrina Sims and Mrs Lisa Gruar have been a significant part of the fabric of Mater Dei with both commencing employment initially in the school. Lisa joined Mater Dei in May 1992 and has worked consistently in the area of finance and payroll. Katrina commenced in May 2000 in school reception, eventually transitioning to work in Human Resources. Both Lisa and Katrina will finish at Mater Dei on Thursday 25 September. We thank them for their impressive years of service to our Mater Dei community and wish them the very best.

P&F INFORMATION

Thank You!

To all parent helpers for the work and commitment to the recent Canteen Day. The students always enjoy the treat of the Canteen.

Thank you also to all parents and caregivers who continue to show tremendous support of the Canteen days by placing orders for their children.

Next Canteen Day!

Friday 19 September

Canteen Reminders

• Orders can be sent in any day via your child's diary pouch from Monday, 15 September to 9am Thursday 18 September. No late orders can be accepted as we shop to the orders placed. We do not purchase extras ‘just in case’.
• Separate bags are required for recess and lunch orders. They may choose to order recess, lunch, both or none.
• All orders must be written on large paper bags (brown or white) or Sticky Beaks reusable lunch wallets as this is what we place the orders in. Bags are available from Coles and Woolworths if you don't have any. 

NO ENVELOPES, ZIP LOCK BAGS or STAPLES

• We do not supply bags and rewrite lunch orders. This is the responsibility of families if you wish for your child to receive a recess/lunch order.
• Please check if your Sticky Beaks reusable lunch bag needs washing.
• All orders MUST include: child's name; 2025 class; quantity needed; flavour required and whether it is a recess or lunch order. 
• If you don't know the correct name of your child's class this can be located on Compass. Please use the correct class name when writing out their order so volunteers know which class basket to place the order in.
• Please see the attached 2025 menu items and price list as well as a visual menu to support students making choices.
• Orders are placed in class lunch baskets and eaten during supervised eating in the classrooms.

Thank you for following the guidelines above to assist our dedicated volunteers who give so generously of their time to make this possible for students.

P&F Father's Day Stall

We hope all the special men in students' lives enjoyed their surprises that the students lovingly selected from the Father's Day Stall last Wednesday.

Thank you to Melissa and Amanda for coordinating the day and to our volunteers - Karen, Robyn, Natalie and Rebecca for ensuring the success of the day for students.

Father's Day BBQ

Last Friday during the Father's Day celebrations, Heather, Greg, Karen and Tracey generously donated their time to assist with the BBQ for all the guests and students to enjoy.

Second Hand Uniform Sale

We held several second hand uniform sales which were very popular with families. Thank you to families who generously donate preloved school items and to Michelle, Heather and Greg for your help.

SCHOOL NEWS

MISSION & VISION

Saint Hildegard of Bingen: A Model of Excellence and Service

The Catholic Church honors Saint Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179) as one of its most distinguished medieval scholars. Her extraordinary achievements provide an inspiring example for all.  A Benedictine abbess of exceptional learning, Saint Hildegard distinguished herself across multiple disciplines. Her theological writings, based on mystical visions, contributed significantly to spiritual literature. As a composer, she created liturgical music of profound depth that remains part of our sacred heritage today.  Saint Hildegard's scientific contributions were equally remarkable. Her medical research and botanical studies advanced contemporary understanding of natural healing. Her holistic approach, integrated physical treatment with spiritual care. 

Beyond scholarship, Saint Hildegard exemplified courageous leadership, corresponding with Popes and emperors whilst establishing her own independent monastery. Her legacy reminds us that academic excellence and compassionate service are expressions of our Catholic educational mission.  Her feast day, September 17th, celebrates a life dedicated to the pursuit of truth and the healing of others.

The Father's Day Liturgy was a joyful celebration honouring all the significant men who shape and support our students' lives. The service provided an opportunity for our school community to come together in gratitude and recognition. As always, our students participated with respect and enthusiasm. Their heartfelt singing and engaged responses added to the joy and spirit of our community gathering.  The students’ faces were exhibited and nothing gives our students more joy than seeing their friends and peers’ faces on the big screen!  Thank you to all the families who attended.

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St Gregory’s students visit Mater Dei

On Wednesday 3 September, ten students from St Gregory’s College Junior School visited the two Stage 3 classes for some physical education and social interaction!  All the students interacted together with ease and laughter and excitement were in abundance on the COLA! The hour and half went by so quickly! Mater Dei students looks forward to welcoming another group of St Gregory’s students next week for more fun!

Mater Dei Dinner Working Bee

Last Tuesday afternoon, the staff of Mater Dei School gathered together to prepare items for the upcoming Mater Dei Dinner. The staff 

• Wrapped and labelled lucky door prizes
• Organised and prepared table items
• Prepared donation slips for guests
• Labelled prize envelopes
• Prepared live auction bid paddles
• Prepared table numbers for each table
• and much MORE!

CURRICULUM

Stage 3

During Week 7, Stage 3 embarked on an excursion to Woolworths Camden. Students have been learning about puberty and how their bodies change within their PDH lessons. Students have been learning about the importance of hygiene products and how they assist us in keeping our bodies clean and healthy. For our excursion, students had to find where the hygiene aisle was and to search for hygiene products on their lists. In collaboration with their families, they had to identify a hygiene product they needed, and to purchase it during our excursion.  Some students chose a deodorant, a toothbrush, dental floss, hand soap and body wash. They were excited to select their item and purchase it using the self check out counters. Both classes were extremely sensible and enjoyed their outing. This experience allowed the students to take their knowledge from lessons within the classroom into a real-life experience. 

Written by Kate Gallagher Stage 3 PDH Teacher

Stage 4

Stage 4 students have been engaging in a fortnightly project to develop a student-led news station. As part of this initiative, students research current school and community events, draft written reports, and present their findings verbally to the wider school community.

This experience supports the development of essential skills in literacy, organisation, and collaboration, while also fostering confidence in public speaking. By sharing their work with the school, students are building a sense of responsibility, leadership, and pride in contributing to the life of our community.

Book Week Author Visit

On Tuesday 19 August Kindergarten to Year 6 students were delighted to meet author Toula Papadam. Toula has written and published three picture books including PARTY BY THE BILLABONG, OH MY! SAID THE FLY and LEX.

Toula’s presentation involved reading and talking about her stories followed by interactive activities which were both educational and entertaining. Our students also had the opportunity to see the illustrators’ original artworks.

Toula volunteered her time and expertise as an author to visit our Kindergarten to Year 6 students at Mater Dei School and we thank her immensely for this opportunity.

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K-6 Book Week Parade

On Friday 22 August Mater Dei School held its annual K-6 Book Week Parade. The theme for 2025 was Book an Adventure. It was a delight to see our students dress up for the parade which included a variety of costumes representing a variety of books and characters. Some of the amazing characters this year included The Gruffalo, Where’s Wally, Luigi, Pizza and Taco, Minions, Wednesday Adams, Little Red Riding Hood, The Mad Hatter, Dog Man, The Rainbow Fish and many more!

We must acknowledge our parents’ contribution to the success of the parade by supporting this popular event and dressing their child to be able to participate dressed as a favourite book character. It’s a great opportunity for students to learn about characters across a wide range of books and to encourage reading.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our families joined the students and staff by dressing up next year!

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National Science Week

This year Mater Dei School celebrated the theme of Decoding the Universe. Students from Kindergarten to Year 12 were invited to participate in an interactive session of learning about what decoding and coding can look like for people and animals. They explored the ways people communicate by coding and decoding text, speech and signing/gesture. Delving into the world of how various animals code and decode their messages was not only interesting but challenging too.

Students attempted to decode animal sounds, footprints and camouflage. Students engaged in a quiz, online game, colouring animals to show camouflage, making animal footprint tracks with paint and playdough, writing/drawing a message to send into the universe via a rocket and designing a secret message using a LEGO alphabetic code.

National Science Week always provides our students with new learning opportunities about the world in which they live and grow.

K-2 Science Week Photos

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3-6 Science Week Photos

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7-12 Science Week Photos

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WORKPLACE LEARNING

Students are continuing to expand on their learning during work placements.  It’s fantastic to see students applying transferable skills from previous work placements to their current roles.

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SPORTS NEWS

Gymnastics:

In term three students in Year 1-10 have been participating in a weekly gymnastics program, run by Gymtastic Kids. The program has been funded through a grant received through Sporting Schools Australia. The students have enjoyed participating in circuit based activities.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

EVENTS

Disco Bingo

Saturday 20 September. More info on the flyer below 👇

Performing Arts Night (PAN) - SAVE THE DATE!!

Friday 7 November. More info on the flyer below 👇

2025 IMPORTANT DATES

FORMS & PROCEDURES

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)

1. Click on the student
2. Click on the 3 lines in top left corner
3. Click Open in Browser
4. Click on Community Icon (2 heads)
5. Click on School Documentation
6. Click Parent Forms

ATTENDANCE EXEMPTION FORMS 
Any families who wish to apply for attendance exemptions to attend therapy services in 2025, please download the Application for Leave Exemption form on Compass, complete and return to schooladmin@materdei.org.au 

2025 SCHOOL DROP OFF / PICK UP PROCEDURES

COMMUNITY

Camden Careers and Jobs Expo

Thursday 20 November

Secure your free tickets to the 2025 Camden Careers and Jobs Expo and help your young people explore exciting career opportunities!

Camden Council is once again hosting the 2025 Camden Careers and Jobs Expo a free community event dedicated to connecting young people and job seekers with meaningful career pathways.

This event is a golden opportunity for students, job seekers, employers, training providers, and community services to come together for a day of networking, learning, and opportunity.

The expo will be a fantastic occasion for young people to delve into various career options, interact with industry professionals, and gain direct access to vacant job positions, all in one place.

Here are some highlights of what you can expect:

• Meet local employers and training providers
• Explore diverse career and education pathways
• Directly connect with employers who have current job vacancies
• Gather valuable information on apprenticeships, traineeships, and further education opportunities

Tickets to the event are available for free, so don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity! You can get your tickets HERE.

FREE FORMAL ATTIRE

School Student Concession Cards

If you're a student aged 16 years or older and eligible for concessions, the Transport Concession Entitlement Card serves as proof of entitlement when using a Child/Youth Opal card within the Opal network or when traveling on child or concession fares in NSW. 

The Transport Concession Entitlement Card replaces the following cards:

1. Senior Secondary Student Concession Card (16 years and over) – also issued to Mature Secondary Students (18 years and over), Distance Education Students and Home School Students.
2. Proof of Age card (when a student under 16 years of age looks older)
3. Boarders Rail Pass

To travel on a Child/Youth Opal card or a child/concession ticket, students must carry a concession entitlement card.

Children aged between 4 to 15 years do not require a proof of entitlement for concession travel. However, if they look more mature, they can get a Transport Concession Entitlement Card to verify to authorised officers that they are under 16 years old.

Please contact Mater Dei School Admin on schooladmin@materdei.org.au if you are interested in applying for a Concession Entitlement card.

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