Delagram 22nd September 2023
From the Principal
Although the Year 12 cohort bid farewell to the normal school experience at La Salle Academy, they now start their preparations for the HSC exams. This is very much indicative of life – when one journey stops, another starts. But what remain consistent is character, endeavour and integrity. In a speech to the parents/guardians of our graduating students on Thursday night, I reminded everyone that we work in partnership with our families to model and promote the values of our faith and community. We should be aiming to develop young adults who are aspirational, respectful, responsible and someone that is socially just and works for the common good of all. This journey is not always easy and different people step up to help guide, counsel, direct, support and motivate our students.
One of the biggest challenges facing our youth in modern society is the growth of commercial and material influences. At times, it is easy to focus on our own needs and wants and be self-indulgent at the expense of the consideration, care and concern of others. A large part of our Catholic faith is to be considerate of others, love thy neighbour. A simple means of doing this is to show gratitude and appreciation for those that have helped us. I asked our graduating class to consider this question this week and reflect on the teachers, mentors, parents, guardians, grandparents who have all helped them reach this pinnacle in their schooling. I asked the students to park their own self interests to one side and use this special week to show and demonstrate their gratitude. I was happy with the response of our graduates and the reflections that they made this week.
This should be a core element of our everyday business at La Salle Academy. Before looking beyond our valley, and beyond our school boundaries, we need to consider whether we engage in an attitude of gratitude and if we demonstrate behaviours that are consistent with respecting ‘thy neighbour’. The answer mostly is yes, but there are times when this is not happening and there are certain behaviours that are allowed to happen because we do not challenge them, we are too afraid of ‘snitching’ rather than a demonstration of real care and concern for others and doing what is right. This is a challenge that we at La Salle Academy are determined to overcome. With the appointment of our new student leadership team this week, we look to set ourselves goals that our entire student population can work towards. Developing young people who demonstrate character, endeavour and integrity who are focused on the care, concern and compassion for the other - needs to be at the core of our 2024 business. We work in partnerships with our families and hope that we can all work together as a Lasallian community to provide the very best outcomes in a safe and supportive environment for all.
Our recent 70th Anniversary was another reason to celebrate this wonderful community. It was wonderful to see many alumni and ex-staff members return to our community and recount many fond experiences of La Salle Academy. The appreciation for the school and the platform that it provided for the many success stories was heart warming and entertaining. Many of our visitors expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to return and commented on the wonderful student and staff ambassadors of our school in 2023. It was a fantastic day and I am thankful for all those that supported this event – staff, students, visitors and the parish (thank you to the choir for their exceptional preparation and singing on the Sunday).
I continue to be excited by the journey that lies ahead for our school. Congratulations to our Year 12’s – I hope you have enjoyed your graduation events this week and can reflect positively on your time at La Salle Academy. Congratulations to our incoming student leaders for 2024. I am excited to work with these leaders and the entire Year 12, 2024 cohort and we look to continue building the pride of Lithgow, La Salle Academy.
I wish all students and families a safe and restful break (for those on holidays) as we look forward to commencing Term Four on Tuesday 10th October.
God Bless
Mr Glenn Carpenter
Assistant Principal
Term 4 Mobile Policy Changes
A reminder to all students and carers that from Day 1, Term 4 (Tuesday October 10th for students) the new Mobile Phone policy will be in place. The changes at La Salle Academy are in line with the same mobile phone bans in all NSW Department of Education and other schools in our diocese. The details are as follows:
A Mobile Phone Visibility ban will be in place from from 9.00am – 3.20pm.
(Teachers will not handle any phones) |
If parents need to contact their child by phone at any time during the school day they should do so via the school office.
HSC Exams
Congratulations to al of our graduating students, especially those who received awards at our Awards Ceremony today. Details and images of the graduation ceremonies wil be publishe din the coming weeks.
Our HSC Examination period at La Salle Academy will begin on Wednesday, October 11th with English Paper 1 and conclude with the final exam for our cohort, Physics on November 2nd. We wish our students the very best in the final phase of their preparation in the coming weeks. I would like to especially thank all of their teacher for their ongoing support of our Year 12 students some of which will be running additional revision workshops in the holidays.
Have a wonderful and restful holiday!
Katie Bennett
From the REC
Year 10 Reflection Day
All Year 10 students attended a reflection day on Friday September 15. The theme was service and
the day was facilitated by the Young La Sallians.
Student reflections:
“The reflection day was insightful and informational/ It has taught me and my classmates the true
meaning of service. I feel as though I can better enrich my life by providing a helping hand to others.
We all had fun. A big thanks to Josh and Seb.”
Brooke McDonald
My Reflection Day was quite enjoyable. We played games. The point that stuck out to me were the
red and black statistics. It was interesting to see so many world problems that are just escalating. I
wish to do it again.
Bella McMurtie
Year 9 Reflection Day
All Year 9 students attended a reflection day on Thursday September 14. The theme was
relationships and the day was facilitated by the Young La Sallians.
Prayer for the Graduating students of 2023
Lord, as we celebrate the achievements of our Year 12 graduates, we thank you for the talents,
dedication, and hard work that have brought them to this moment. Bless them with wisdom, courage,
and a bright future as they step into new opportunities and continue their journeys. May they always
be guided by your grace. Amen
God Bless
Ms Belinda Redden
Year 9 Reflection day
Year 10 Reflection Day
Year 7-9 Pastoral Care Co-ordinator
As we find ourselves at the close of Term 3, I would like to extend my best wishes to all our students, staff, families and community for a safe and enjoyable holiday break. This term has been an incredible journey of growth, learning, and self-discovery for our students in Years 7-9. It is with great pride that I take this opportunity to reflect on the past term's accomplishments and look forward to the exciting challenges that lie ahead for our students.
First and foremost, I want to congratulate our dedicated Year 12 students who have reached the finish line of their high school journey. You have exhibited resilience, determination, and a commendable work ethic throughout year 12. As you embark on the HSC early in Term 4, know that we are behind you every step of the way. You have our full support, and we have no doubt that you will achieve your goals and shine brightly in your endeavours.
To our Year 11 students, who have recently completed their final preliminary exams, well done! Your hard work, commitment, and enthusiasm have not gone unnoticed and can surely be seen through your assessment results. As you transition into Year 12 content in Term 4, remember that this is a crucial step toward achieving your academic aspirations. Keep up the work, and never hesitate to seek guidance and support when needed.
Our school's Pastoral Care program has been a wonderful success this term, fostering personal growth and creating a supportive and nurturing environment for our students. We've delved into various topics, each designed to enhance emotional intelligence and overall well-being. Here's a quick overview of some of the key themes we explored:
- Gratitude: We emphasised the importance of appreciating the present moment and the people who enrich our lives. Practising gratitude can have a profound impact on our overall happiness and well-being.
- Living in the Moment: Our students learned the significance of mindfulness and being present in their daily lives. This practice can help reduce stress and improve focus and self-awareness.
- Personal Goals: We encouraged our students to set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals, empowering them to strive for personal growth and achievement.
- Character Strengths: Identifying and nurturing one's character strengths is a key aspect of personal development. We explored how embracing these strengths can lead to greater self-confidence and resilience.
- Safety Police Talk: Our local youth liaison police officer ran sessions on safety awareness, equipping our students with the knowledge and skills to stay safe in various situations.
- Bullying No Way Day: We came together as a school community to raise awareness about the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment, where bullying has no place.
- Acts of Kindness: Students actively engaged in acts of kindness, spreading positivity and compassion throughout our school community.
- Are You Okay Day: We highlighted the significance of mental health and the importance of checking in on our friends and loved ones.
I wish to express my gratitude to our staff for their hard work and dedication, and our students for their active participation in our Years 7-9 Pastoral Care program. Your enthusiasm for personal growth and commitment to fostering a positive and supportive school environment are truly commendable.
I wish you all a restful and enjoyable holiday break. Relax, enjoy family time, and have plenty of laughter. We look forward to welcoming you back in Term 4, ready to tackle new challenges and create more meaningful experiences together.
Once again, congratulations to our Year 12 students, and best of luck to all as we embark on the next chapter of our educational journey.
Positive reinforcement changes behaviour for the better, while criticism stabilises negative behaviours and blocks change.
Virginia H. Pearce
Mrs Wilsmore-Smith
Year 7-9 Pastoral Welfare Coordinator
Year 10-12 Pastoral Care Co-ordinator
What a busy two weeks these last ones of Term 3 have been.
Last night, Year 12 and their families attended the Graduations Mass and Dinner at the Lithgow Workmens Club. It was a beautiful evening with the students enjoying themselves in the company of family and friends. They received their Graduation folders from Mr Carpenter. Speeches were made by Mr Carpenter, myself, Mrs Lyndall Marshall, on behalf the parents and finally, from School captains, Nina Sheather and Jed Simcoe. “A Trip Down Memory Lane” slideshow was prepared and shown by Jasmin Pyne. Mr Carpenter had the last laugh by showing a video of bloopers containing Year 12 students in the preparation of his regular Vlogs.
Today, the whole school attended the Graduation Awards in the hall. This was also attended by Father Garry, Sister Anne, Vince Connor of the CEDB as well as guests from local organisations who have sponsored awards.
Congratulations to the major prize recipients:
- Zig Zag Motel and Frankie’s Restaurant Business Studies Award – Jed Simcoe
- Zig Zag Motel and Frankie’s Restaurant Artistry in Creative Arts – Nina Sheather
- Zig Zag Motel and Frankie’s Restaurant Creativity in TAS – Ava Nicholls
- J. Hooker Award for Excellence in English – Will Drengenberg
- J. Hooker Award for Excellence in Maths – Jed Simcoe
- Lithgow Garden Club Agriculture Award – Vincent Rummery
- University of Notre Dame Excellence in Science – Jed Simcoe
- University of Newcastle Vice Chancellor’s Award – Grace Dean
- Andrew Gee Award for Continued Improvement – Jorja Bailey
- Black Gold Award or Consistent Effort – Sophie Lane
- Energy Australia Award for school and Community Service – Imogen Della Bosca
- Ampol All-Rounder Award – Nathan Marshall
- Australian Defence Force Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Award – Jed Simcoe
- Australian Defence Force Long Tan Future Innovators Award – Will Drengenberg
- Mary MacKillop Award – Grace Dean
- Lasallian Award – Nina Sheather
Major Academic Awards:
- Dux year 12, 2023 – Jed Simcoe
- 2nd Place, year 12, 2023 – Will Drengenberg
- 3rd Place, year 12, 2023 – Ava Nicholls
Congratulations to the listed students on their wonderful achievements. They still have a few weeks before the commencement of the HSC, so it is important that they don’t start the celebrations too soon.
Year 11 have just completed their Preliminary Exams. I would like to commend them on how seriously they approached the exams. They will receive their results next term. The upcoming holidays will be the only ones between now and their HSC when they do not have the pressures of school work hanging over their heads and their HSC studies commence in Term 4.
Year 10 last week engaged in a Reflection Day with the Young Lasallians. It was a very though provoking day for the young people, questioning how they can be of service to others. The students got a lot out of the day. My concern however is the number of students who were absent, thinking that such a day is not a compulsory day at school. As Catholic school we expect all students to attend such religious events.
Photos of the above-mentioned events will appear in the next newsletter.
I wish everyone a safe and restful holiday. For me, I am looking forward to a relaxing week in the Cook Islands after what has been a very busy term.
Regards,
Mrs Bernadette Hicks
Pastoral Welfare Co-ordinator Years 10 – 12
Careers Adviser
SPORT
This term has been a busy term for our sporting teams. We have had rugby league, dance, netball, athletics as well as some school basketball competitions.
Our athletics champions have yet to be announced on this platform! The following students were crowned athletic champions for their respective age groups:
Under 12 Girl Laila Oliver
Under 12 boy Isaac Beckett
Under 13 girl Indianna Lee
Under 13 boy Perrin Davis
Under 14 girl Dallyce Rose
Under 14 boy Lincoln Hutchinson
Under 15 girl Isabelle Youman
Under 15 boy Zach Fitzpatrick
Under 16 girl Gabby Dray
Under 16 boy Jake Maranda
Open Girl Imogen DellaBosca
Open Boy Haymish BayerBarrow
Solomon were crowned athletic champions!
We then had 15 students travel to Dubbo to compete in the Diocesan Athletics Carnival. Many students placed and also broke their own PB’s. Notable achievements include Laila Oliver of year 7 winning the javelin and Jorja Bailey of year 12 winning the shot put and finishing 2nd in the discus. These two students were chosen to represent Bathurst at the NSW CCC Athletics Carnival held in Homebush. Unfortunately, the carnival was cancelled due to a safety concern and due to the late timing in the term it was cancelled rather than postponed. Indiana Lee of year 7 who narrowly missed qualifying for the NSW CCC has qualified and will compete next term in the NSW All Schools Athletics Carnival. I look forward to reporting on her achievements.
Both our girls league tag and boys intermediate basketball teams have been training for their upcoming competitions next term. The girls travel to Bathurst in a gala day format to play against a host of schools from the Central West, whilst our boys travel to Sydney to play in the NSW CCC Championships. This team qualified for this event earlier in the year when they were crowned Diocesan Champions. Again, I look forward to reporting on their achievements.
In local news, I am aware that many students have hung up their boots for their winter sports. Many students were lucky to be involved in local grand finals across netball, hockey, rugby league and soccer. Some of our teachers were also involved both as proud parents and players!
Good luck to the boys playing and representing group 10 in rugby league over this coming weekend. Hopefully we can have some success here as well. Thank you to all students who participated in the basketball competition and get ready for the touch football tournament to be held during term 4!
Mr Carroll
Junior Summer Indoor Soccor Competition
Holiday Activities at The Lithgow Library
CEBD Community Charter
ZENN ABILITY
From the Finance Officer
2023 School Fees
Any family that does NOT receive their School Fee Statement via email is asked to contact the school office to ensure that the correct email address is listed in our system.
2023 Billing Dates
Term 1 billing date 03/03/2023 and instalment due date 17/03/2023
Term 2 billing date 05/05/2023 and instalment due date 19/05/2023
Term 3 billing date 28/07/2023 and instalment due date 11/08/2023
Please note that school fees are charged over the first three terms, therefore no school fee charge in Term 4.
Payment Arrangements
Families wishing to make a payment arrangement can contact the school office. Payment arrangements are made by Direct Debit. Payment plans of up to 52 weeks are available. Please obtain a copy of the Direct Debit Authority Form to set up a direct debit payment.
For your information:
Payments can be made by the following payment options:
Account balances can be accessed on Compass and payments can be made via the Compass app.
BPAY Payment references are printed on the statements.
Direct Debit Forms are available from the school office and a copy is attached below.
EFTPOS is available in the school office and can be used for payments over the telephone.
Centrepay Forms are available from the CentreLink Office
Please do not hesitate to contact Mary Cassar, School Finance Officer, if you would like assistance with any matters in relation to school fees.
Mary Cassar
School Zones Reminder
