Delagram 1st December 2023

From the Principal

In preparing this Delagram report, I have read many quotes about not looking backward, only looking forward. However, I believe it is important at this time of year, that we do look back – we recognise the achievements of each individual, the collective strides we have made as a community
and the growth and pride that we are demonstrating. In looking back, we should recognise the journey that we are on and understanding we are only at the beginning. And whilst we will reflect on a great year, a lot of work has been done behind the scenes to set the foundations for our future growth, and I am excited to share staffing news with you for 2024.
Staffing in 2024
We have been actively working on our staffing for 2024, and I am delighted to inform our
community to we close to completing our quota of staff for the next academic year. Over the next
two weeks, we will be acknowledging outstanding contribution of a number of long serving staff
members who are taking extended leave in 2024. I would hope that our community will join me in
celebrating their contribution to La Salle Academy:
Mrs Katie Bennett (Returing to MacKillop College, Bathurst)
Mrs Bernadette Hicks (Long Service Leave for 2024);
Mr Jonathon Coller (Long Service Leave for 2024);
Mr Ross Burrell (Long Service Leave for 2024);
Mr John Nyitrai (Retiring).
Equally, we are excited to welcome a suite of new staff or staff that are transitioning into new roles
for 2024:
Ms Hayley Prineas (HSIE Teacher)
Mrs Melissa Devine (Teacher Librarian/Literacy Coach)
Ms Kerry Hogan (HSIE Teacher)
Ms Tess Sheather (English Teacher)
Ms Tahni Isedale (PDHPE/Maths Teacher)
Mrs Alison Griffiths (Stage 4 Teacher)
Mr Nick Prineas (TAS Teacher)
Mr Adrian Leighton (TAS Teacher)
Mr David Cam (Agriculture Teacher)
Mrs Kelly Aspinall (School Support Officer)
Mrs Rebecca Sheather (School Support Officer)
Mrs Jennifer Muir (School Learning Support Officer)
Mrs Janelle Bressington (Administration Officer)
We look forward to introducing these new staff members at the commencement of 2024. Further to
these new staff member joining us, we have some leadership changes for 2024.
EXECUTIVE TEAM
Principal:  Mr Glenn Carpenter
Assistant Principal/VET Coordinator:  Mrs Jenny Holgate
Religious Education Coordinator:  Ms Belinda Redden
Leader of Teaching & Learning/Careers Advisor:  Mrs Donna Mitchell
MIDDLE LEADERSHIP TEAM
Learning Support Teacher/Coordinator:  Mrs Colleen Houghton
KLA Middle Leader (English/HSIE):  Ms Leonie King
KLA Middle Leader (Maths/Arts/PDHPE):  Mr Greg Devine
KLA Middle Leader (Science/Ag):  Mr Jason MacKinnon
KLA Middle Leader (TAS):  TBC
Pastoral/Wellbeing Coordinator (10-12):  Mr Steve Carroll
Assistant P&W Coordinator (10-12):  Mrs Tahni Isedale
Pastoral/Wellbeing Coordinator (7-9):  Mrs Anne-Maree Wilsmore-Smith
Assistant P&W Coordinator (7-9):  Mrs Lalitha Plumb
Literacy Coach:  Mrs Melissa Devine
Sports Coordinator:  Ms Keely Millar
Please join me in congratulating the staff members that continue to do a great job in their current
roles and for those who will be stepping into new positions for 2024.  

Week 10: Last Week of School
We have many great activities and events in Weeks Nine and Ten leading up to the completion of
the 2023 Academic year. Please find an outline of our final days at school below:
Wednesday 6th December & Friday 8th December:
Year 10 Youth Mental Health First Aid Course
Friday 8th December:
La Salle Academy has GOT TALENT show (Afternoon).
Thursday 7th December & Monday 11th December:
Year 7 & 8 Activity Day (full day of alternate activities).
Tuesday 12th December:
9.30am: La Salle Academy Christmas Mass (St Patrick’s Church, Lithgow)
We would like to invite as many members of our families and community to join us in celebrating the
end of our school year.
12.00pm: La Salle Academy End of Year Assembly & Award Ceremony
Wednesday 13th December:
Year 10 Formal: 6.00pm at Seclusions Blue Mountains, Rydal.
Friday 15th December:
11.10am: Formal classes conclude

God Bless
Mr Glenn Carpenter

Assistant Principal

Reports for Semester Two, 2023
The final reports for years 7-10 will be released to parents and students in Week 10. There are some slight changes to the format which have been designed to provide more detailed and relevant information about the progress of our students in each of their courses. Teacher comments have been replaced by two more detailed profiles. The Learning Behaviours Profile provides a detailed report of your son/daughter’s application to classwork, homework and learning behaviours in the classroom. The Achievement Profile includes descriptors of specific tasks/skills relating to each subject which are graded from Extensive to Elementary. A Semester Two Grade from the A-E range will also appear on the report. 

End-of Year Activities
We have a range of additional activities planned for our junior students for the next few weeks. For years 7 and 8 they will get the opportunity to be involved in a sports, wellbeing and cultural program for two days in weeks 9 and 10. We will also be having a Year 7 History Ancient and Medieval afternoon on Wednesday where students can showcase their research and bring in costumes and props to get into character for our medieval banquet and tournament. For our Year 9 students there is a drone flying activity planned for next Wednesday. All Year 9 students are invited to sign up and participate in this event. We have La Salle’s Got Talent to rehearse and plan for and many fun Christmas and charity events underway! For our Year 11 students there is a little less time for out of class fun as they will be completing their first HSC Assessment Tasks in the coming weeks. The Year 11 students will also need to make sure that they have the work from their teachers for preparation and review in the holidays.

Have a great week!
Mrs Katie Bennett

From the REC

Religious Education

The Message of Advent
On the first Sunday of Advent, Pope Francis calls on us to “awaken from our slumber” and to always be aware of the presence of God and to welcome Him in our daily lives. To read more visit: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2022-11/pope-may-advent-awaken-us-to-god-s-presence-in-our-daily-lives.html

Advent always starts four Sundays before Christmas. This year, in 2023, Advent starts Sunday, December 3. Advent is a season of waiting and expectation for Christmas – the birth of Christ, the Nativity of Our Lord. We prepare our homes and hearts for four weeks before Christmas. Advent is also the beginning of a new liturgical season – it concludes a long period of Ordinary Time and leads us into the new church year with hope and patience in preparation for Christmas. 

Ms Belinda Redden
REC

Year 7-9 Pastoral Care Co-ordinator

Pastoral Care Program
As we near the end of another eventful term, I would like to take a moment to reflect on some key aspects of our Pastoral Care Program for Years 7-9. In Week 7, our Pastoral Care Program delved into the increasing concerns around vaping. The session aimed to educate our students on the impact, effects, and severity of this prevalent issue within schools and aim to equip our students with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions and promote a healthy, responsible lifestyle.
Week 8 focused on the importance of mindfulness. The session included guided meditation and square breathing exercises, providing students with practical techniques to manage stress, enhance focus, and promote overall well-being. These mindfulness practices align with our commitment to fostering not only academic excellence but also the social and emotional development of our students.
Peer Support Training Day 2
On November 30th, we conducted the second day of Peer Support Training. This engaging day explored crucial skills such as communication, creative thinking, assertiveness, interaction styles, and flexibility. Our students exhibited commendable enthusiasm and dedication, showcasing their potential as future leaders in 2024.
I am thrilled to announce the successful completion of this training and extend my congratulations to our new Year 10 Peer Support Leaders for 2024. Your willingness to embrace these responsibilities speaks volumes about your commitment to the well-being of your peers and the broader school community.

Year 10 Peer Support Leaders 2023
I wish to extend a massive thank you to our current Year 10 Peer Support leaders. Your hard work and dedication have made a significant impact on not only our Year 7 students but Year 5 and 6 this year. These students have played a crucial role in running the Year 7 Peer Support Program in terms 1 and 2, and in making our Year 6 Transition and Orientation days successful. 

A special thank you goes to Mrs. Hicks for her invaluable contribution to Peer Support Training over the years. Her dedication and expertise have played a pivotal role in shaping our student leaders and fostering a positive and supportive school culture.

Year 6 Orientation Day
On November 21st, we welcomed over 50 Year 6 students for an engaging Orientation Day. The day included immersive experiences in Aboriginal Spirituality with Miss Delosa, Woodwork with Mr. Picman, and Visual Arts with Mrs. Cole. It was heartening to witness the enthusiasm and curiosity of these incoming students as they explored the diverse opportunities awaiting them in secondary school.

Year 7 and 8 ‘Embracing Life’ 2-day Workshop
On Thursday 7th December and Monday 11th December all Year 7 and 8 students will be participating in ‘Embracing Life’ a range of activities and workshops at school. These 2-days will cover topics such as: self-care, aspirations, gratitude, essential life skills and most importantly some pool time. Mr Carroll and I are looking forward to facilitating these days and wish to thank in advance everyone involved in making this a successful experience. 

If you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. I am here to support you and your children in any way I can.

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

10-12 Pastoral Care Co-ordinator

Two weeks to go, but who’s counting?
While the term is drawing to a close it is important for Year 11 in particular to remain very focussed on
their studies. There are still tasks to be submitted and students need to ensure that they are working to the standards required of a student who has commenced their HSC studies. This is not a time to slacken off.
The Student Leadership Team has been very proactive over the past few weeks devoting much time to the collection of donated toys for the St Vincent de Paul Toy Drive. At this point in time, students of Benildus house have donated the largest number of toys demonstrating not only their generosity, but also their desire to help those less fortunate than themselves.
As well, the Leaders have been promoting the upcoming Christmas Trivia Night to be held on Monday,
11 thDecember, starting at 6.00 pm with funds raised going to Lasallian Mission. Registrations can be made by phoning the office or registering online through the Compass link. Entry fee, payable at the door, is $20 per adult and $15 per student which includes a BBQ dinner and slices. Bring coins with you for the Chocolate Toss and raffles – Christmas Hamper and leg of ham and lucky door prize.
Year 10 students will be completing a Mental Health First Aid Course on Wednesday and Friday of next
week, receiving a qualification lasting for three years. We anticipate that they will develop strategies to
help them through the difficult times ahead in their senior years of schooling.

Congratulations to some of our year 10 who have been fortunate to be offered apprenticeships and
traineeships next year. As they enter the workforce, I am sure that they will make themselves, their
families and La Salle Academy proud. A reminder to parents that for a student younger than 17 years to
leave school, they must meet certain criteria. They must provide evidence of a traineeship or
apprenticeship, or, a letter from an employer indicating that the young person will be employed for
twenty-five hours or more per week, or continuing further study, eg TAFE. A Principal cannot sign off on a student exiting the school without this evidence in writing.
Many students of both Years 10 and 11 received Merit Certificates at Assembly this work, acknowledging
the efforts students are making in either their studies, behaviour or participation in school events.
Congratulations to those students and keep up the good work.
Although there are only two weeks remaining of the year, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have
any concerns for your son or daughter.

Mrs Bernadette Hicks
Pastoral Welfare Co-ordinator
Years 10 – 12
Careers Advisor

Bingo

BINGO!
I had the privilege of accompanying four Year 8 students when they visited Three Tree
Lodge to spend time with some of the residents on Thursday, this week. Jena Yanothan,
Rebecca Martignago, Parker Moloney and Samuel Edwards joined with some ladies at Bingo
and even had a go at calling the numbers. Opportunities such as this, organised by Ms
Redden are wonderful in that they allow our students to understand the real meaning of
“service”.

Mrs Bernadette Hicks

Pre- Apprenticeship Program For Women

Easter Art Workshop

Students from years seven, eight and nine who received awards in the school Easter art competition enjoyed spending the day with local artist Ted Lewis working on their submissions for the Easter art competition. The Easter art Diocese competition is held in March each year. 

Ted gave talks and demonstrations to students, giving them insight into his techniques and skills in landscape painting using acrylic paint. Students then applied this knowledge and created their own landscape paintings as practice. Students really enjoyed working with Ted, learning and improving their skills. We look forward to seeing their final works!

Ms Tracey Cole
Art Teacher

Christmas Themed Trivia

Don't forget to call the office on 63 545100 to  register your team for our  Christmas Trivia night on Monday, 11th December, 2023 at 6pm in Bishop Dougherty Hall, La Salle Academy. Funds raised will support Lasallian Mission.

Lithgow Swimming Club FREE 60 day Come and Try -see the attached flyer

Out of touch Netball Club

School Canteen

Just a reminder that students are still allowed to use their phones before 9am to purchase breakfast and preorder for recess and lunch. We also still have the flexischools app available to use as an online pre order for recess and lunch too.

 Please see the information below on how to register and order through flexischools.

We are still on the lookout for volunteers to help in the canteen. Any time you have available would be appreciated, even if its just once a month! Call the office on 6354 5100

Thankyou
Leanne 

Learning difficulties Parent Helpline Information

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 is issued in Term 4.
Payment Arrangements
Families wishing to make a payment arrangement can contact the Finance Officer,
Mary Cassar. Payment arrangements are set up via BPAY or direct debit and plans
of up to 52 weeks are available. Please see below to obtain a copy of the direct debit
authority to set up a direct debit payment.
Payment Options
Account balances can be accessed on Compass and payments can be made via the
Compass App. BPAY references are printed on the statements that are emailed to all families.
Direct debit forms are available from the school office or you can download the copy
below. EFTPOS is available in the school office and can be used for payments over the
telephone.
Centrepay can be organized by obtaining the appropriate form the Centrelink Office.
Please do not hesitate to contact Mary Cassar, School Finance Officer, if you require
assistance with any matters in relation to school fees.

Mary Cassar

School Zones Reminder

A reminder to all our parents that school zones remain in place for the safety of our children and families. School zones operate on all gazetted school days, which are all the days the school is open, even pupil free days.