Dear Parents and Caregivers,

Halfway through Term 3 already and what a busy few weeks we have had! However, it is hard to look past the Magic of Book Week and all it entailed at St. Joseph’s Kingswood. 

Book Week – “Reading is Magic” 

The theme this year was ‘Reading is Magic’ and we truly believe that there was something extra special about this year’s celebrations.  We began the week with different members of leadership reading to each year level.  A book was chosen from those nominated for the CBCA Book Of the Year Awards – even the Year 5s & 6s were brought back to their younger years with Mrs Saccardo’s picture book choice ‘The Garden at the end of the World’. 

On Wednesday the whole school visited the local Mitcham library where our wonderful canvases were hung in the foyer.  Each class portrayed their own visual representation of this year’s theme, and the result is now on display for all to see. On Thursday we had the ever popular, annual book swap. This provides an opportunity for our old books to be loved again in a new home.  It is a wonderful way to allow others to experience the joy these books once gave to us – there really is no greater gift than that of reading! 

Then finally, the big event on Friday – our book week parade.  It was great to see the theme upheld by the staff with a full cast from Harry Potter.  Some of the stand outs of course, Mad-Eye Moody, the Snitch and Dumble-Higgins! Equally as impressive were our favourite characters who were brought to life by each child; from astronauts to Mary Poppins, magicians and even Stick Man! The excitement and joy on every child’s face makes this one of the most cherished days of the year.  

A huge thank you to all families for going above and beyond and coming together to help us celebrate the magic that is reading.  In addition, a special thank you to Eva Wakim our resident librarian who led the way in ensuring the joy reading brings to our students was adequately celebrated.  

Inclusive Education:  

This term we will be conducting Learning Talks in Week 9.  This will be an opportunity to touch base with your child’s teacher and reflect on previous goals set and those required to move forward.  As a result, we will hold review meetings for students on a personalised learning plan at the beginning of Term 4.  These meetings will be the opportunity to review and adjust current plans and ensure a smooth transition to the following year.  

If your child has a personalised plan Vanessa will touch base via phone prior to the end of term for a check in.  However, if you would like to organise a meeting, please feel free to do so at any time. 

Review of Laser Literacy Parent Information Nights  

A huge thank you to all the parents who attended our Laser Literacy Parent it was a great turn out and has had some fantastic feedback.  It has been amazing to see how both the teachers and students have adapted to our new program and their confidence continue to build.  Like all good things, they take time, love and a lot of patience so we look forward to reaping the rewards for our students very soon. If you haven't already done so, please click here to complete a quick survey. 

Click here for some parent information from Laser Literacy, however if you would like to chat further, please feel free to contact Vanessa Saccardo to organise a time to meet.   

Homework Policy 

As you are aware, we have had implemented some changes to both our Literacy and Numeracy programs this year.  In addition, there has been quite a bit of research and debate surrounding homework and its impact.  As a result, we have undertaken a review of our current homework policy.  This is similar to what has been set previously however ensures consistency and appropriate progression across year levels.   As this is only an interim policy, we will review and update the policy again at the end of 2024.  Prior to doing so, we will seek parent input and will do this via survey which will be sent out in Term 4.  Alongside this we will send current research presenting both sides of the effectiveness of homework to help inform your input.  Click here to view out interim Homework Policy. 

In addition, we are aware that the new Literacy homework is a little different to what was sent home previously.  Concepts such as phoneme fingers and tapping out heart words may seem quite foreign! As a result, we will put together a video demonstrating these programs which will hopefully assist you in supporting your child at home.  Please feel free to see your child’s classroom teacher for further clarification. 

Behaviour Policy 

We are continuing to review many of our policies to ensure they are in line with current evidence-based practices and Catholic Education SA Safe Environments for All documents.  These are available on our web page with links to all relevant policies and procedures and the Safeguarding Commitment statement for South Australian Commission for Catholic Schools. These combined policies, procedures and strategies support all CESA staff, visitors and families to safeguard our children from harm and hazard. Click here to view.

As a result, the leadership team have begun a thorough review of our current behaviour policy.  The policy will include the Positive Psychology approaches introduced, including Restorative Practices, the Visible Wellbeing Strategy, and will include Bullying and Harassment. This will then be further reviewed and adjusted by staff before being finalised.  Keep an eye out for this in the next edition of our newsletter! 

As always, our doors are always open.  

Jodie Higgins and Vanessa Saccardo