I recently read an article by Jennifer Oaten entitled, ‘How Much is Too Much”. It was an interesting discussion about how busy our children’s lives can be and the impact that overtiredness can have on their learning. Jennifer posed the question, ‘What do the weekends look like for your children? Water polo Friday night, followed by a sleepover with a friend. Pick up at 8.00 am for athletics, dance, or netball, followed by a birthday party. Sunday starts more gently for some families, with Mass followed by a family lunch and then a BBQ with friends. Everyone rolls in the door at 8.00 pm, exhausted, emotional and tense with others due to exhaustion.’ This is without even considering the potential escalation that can occur when one child remembers that they have forgotten about an upcoming test or an assignment that is due the next day.

Like many of you, I want my child to have fun, explore different interests and develop their talents. I am also conscious of the importance of helping her to find a bit of balance and ensure there is enough time for rest during the week. Sometimes it is not an easy balance to strike.

Being overtired can affect a child’s ability to concentrate, remember, and process information. In her article, Jennifer outlined some tips for helping your children find some balance:

1. Set realistic boundaries. Saying no is one of the hardest parts of being a parent. Let them choose the activities but develop a realistic schedule with limits, which leaves room for spontaneous activities and events.
2. Monitor their workload and stress levels. Check-in with your child regularly and ask them how they are feeling and coping. Look for signs of fatigue, such as headaches, insomnia, mood swings, loss of appetite, or lack of enthusiasm. If you notice any of these, help them reduce or adjust their commitments.
3. Encourage them to prioritise and manage their time. Teach your child how to plan ahead, write to-do lists, and organise their tasks. Help them create a balanced schedule that includes time for schoolwork, activities, family, friends, and hobbies.
4. Emphasise the importance of rest and relaxation. Make sure your child gets enough sleep, at least eight to ten hours a night. Help them establish a regular bedtime routine that involves winding down and avoiding screens. Also, encourage them to take breaks throughout the day and do something relaxing, such as reading, listening to music, meditating, or breathing exercises, all of which help with the rejuvenation of our bodies.
5. Model the behaviour you want to see. Children learn from observing and imitating their parents and teachers. If you want them to find the balance between activities and rest, you need to do the same. Show them that you value your own wellbeing and that you take care of yourself. Share with them your own struggles and strategies for coping with stress and fatigue.

God Bless

Mrs Angela Myles | Executive Principal

So far this term we have enjoyed a calendar full of sporting events; career and pathway opportunities celebrating ‘national ‘Careers Week’, public speaking, award night ceremonies, mine tours, carnivals, spelling bee competitions, work experience placemenets and as always lots of valuable learning in the classroom. Looking forward to the next 2 weeks it doesn’t seem to be slowing down. Please note some big events in Week 5 and 6 below and as always refer to the school calendar for a full list of events and activities.

In Week 5 we enjoy ‘Wellbeing Week’ - take this as an opportunity to ‘stop’ and enjoy family time by taking advantage of ‘no homework’ in junior classes (Senior students will still have homework assigned) and try to achieve at least one thing to improve your health and wellbeing. 

Importantly we also acknolwedge Reconciliation Week in Week 5. Our wonderful Aboriginal Support Officer Josie has many activities for tutor groups to engage in - to raise awareness and engage in the spirit of reconciliation and unity.

Good luck to all students competing in the Schools Cup in Dubbo. We have had great success in this competition in the past and we look forward to hearing how our teams progress. 

The Year 12 Geography are heading to Sydney for an excursion.

In Week 6, on Tuesday 4 June the Stage 6 (Years 11 and 12) Parent and Teacher Interviews will be held at the Secondary campus hall between 3.45 - 7pm. Families will be able to book interviews from Sunday 26 May at 6.30pm. The booking facility will close on Sunday 2 June at 8.30pm. Families of senior students are encouraged to take this important opportunity to engage with their child’s teachers and their learning to celebrate success and to set goals for further improvement and consolidation.

Our rugby league teams will be heading to Dubbo for competitions on Tuesday 4 June, whilst the CCC cross country is held on Wednesday 5 June at the Eastern Creek Equestian Centre. We wish all athletes the best of luck.

For a full list of upcoming events and activities please refer to the school calendar.

Wishing you all a wonderful fortnight.

Ms Blaney McCarthy-English | Acting Head of Campus - Secondary

Year 9 Reflection Day

All Year 9 students attended their Reflection Day on Friday May 10. The theme of the day was “Catch the Wave”. Catch the Wave is the introductory retreat for the Year 9 CSYMA program ‘Introduction to Youth Ministry.’ The retreat also integrates the St Matthews Way value of Excellence to instil in students a drive to give their best no matter what wave they are riding. The retreat aims to help each student become more active in reflecting on their spiritual life and faith experience and to help them find ways to both assess and deepen their relationships with others and with God.

We celebrated the day at the Mudgee Racecourse.  Many thanks to Rosario and Natalia from DioQuest who assisted on the day. Fr Cong was also a valuable member of our team. Congratulations to the students for their wonderful behaviour and impeccable manners on the day.

OUR PRAYER

Belinda Redden | Leader of Mission

Rise

Dear Friends,

Are you ready to embark on an inspiring journey filled with faith, friendship, and fun? If so, we invite you to join us for RISE, our Diocesan Catholic youth event tailored specifically for Youth in the Catholic Diocese of Bathurst.

RISE isn't just another event; it's an opportunity to connect with peers, deepen your relationship with God, and discover the joy of being part of a vibrant Catholic community. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Mt Panorama, RISE promises two days packed with engaging activities, thought-provoking discussions, and moments of spiritual growth.

Here's what you can look forward to during RISE:

1. Inspiring Talks and Workshops: Our lineup of speakers and facilitators are committed to empowering you with insights that resonate with your journey as a young person.
2. Prayer: Experience the power of collective and personal prayer as we come together to praise and honor our faith through music, prayer, and reflection.
3. Meaningful Connections: Forge lasting friendships with fellow participants who share your values, beliefs, and aspirations.
4. Outdoor Activities: Enjoy the beauty of nature as we incorporate outdoor adventures and recreational activities into our program.
5. Encounter: Deepen your spiritual journey through moments of Encounter with God and the Church.

RISE will take place on the 11th and 12th of July, offering you two days filled with inspiration, growth, and joy. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to rejuvenate your faith and connect with like-minded peers from across our diocese.

To register for RISE and secure your spot, simply visit and complete the online registration form.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfHNv-42N5f75quNrpzZ7pjDYfCK_jhkWaiAQB2uYKinXix3g/viewform

Early registration is encouraged as space is limited, and we wouldn't want you to miss out on this transformative experience.

If you have any questions or require further information, please don't hesitate to reach out to me via email or 0458261513

Let's come together to rise in faith, hope, and fun at RISE!

God Bless

Josh

Deacon Josh Clayton | Mission and Renewal Director

Catholic Diocese of Bathurst

The use of affective statements are one of the ways we work restoratively with students at school. Our staff will be learning more about restorative practice and how to implement it in our school with Sheila Bollard from Real Schools at our next professional learning day on Friday 7th June.

Moolarben Spirit Awards -  Regional Winners

Congratulations to Lily Clift in Year 9 and Ruby Pisconieri in Year 11 for being named the Regional winners of the Moolarben Spirit Award. The Moolarben Spirit Award recognises excellence at school,  leadership qualities and community spirit. Both girls enjoyed a tour of Moolarben last week giving them  an opportunity to witness and learn more about the operations, environmental and community support initiatives of Moolarben Coal. After a tour there were interviews to determine an overall ‘junior’ and ‘senior’ winner. We are proud of Lily and Ruby who demonstrate the values of the St Matthews Way of excellence, compassion, respect, courage and service. Congratulations girls!

    

St Matthews Celebrates Careers Week 

2024 Try a Trade Expo

On Tuesday Year 10 students attended the Try a Trade Expo sponsored by Moolarben Coal, Skillset and the Mid Western Regional Council. The event is a collaboration of all high schools in our region coordinated by Skillset, supported by Moolarben Coal. It is a practical based EXPO giving students an insight into different trades and career pathways. We are always grateful for all local businesses who support the event and our students. It was also great to see our alumni students in action thriving in their post school pathways.

  

Glencore (Ulan Coal) Apprenticeship Information session At SMCS

On Wednesday in our Assembly Timetable lesson all interested students from years 10 - 11 are invited to attend an information session from Glencore (Ulan Coal) to outline their apprenticeship opportunities.

Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) Parents page - Stay informed

As Year 12 moves into this important phase of their schooling, many students are starting to think of life after school. There are many pathways open to our students and one is further study at university. For many parents this process can be daunting particularly if they did not attend university themselves. The University Admissions Centre (UAC) has a page dedicated to parents to help navigate them through the process so they are better equipped to help their student. Link here

  

UAC Key Dates for Year 12 students

  

University of Wollongong - Early Admissions Open 17 June

Check out the Early Admission key dates and criteria on their website here

    

University of Newcastle - Early Entry Scheme Now Open

The University of Newcastle’s Early Entry Program is for domestic Year 12 students completing either the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC)  in 2024.

Early entry takes into account your Year 11 results, allowing you to secure an offer before your exams begin.

"When you apply for the free Early Entry Program, we connect you with learning resources that will guide you towards successfully completing your final year at school, and leadership and networking opportunities that focus on collaboration and engagement. An early offer to the University of Newcastle secures your place and provides you with certainty at a stressful time."

There are 3 ‘rounds’ to be considered for an early offer. Refer to the website here for further details.

Closes 29 August (Day 1 offers) - Offers release 5 September

Closes 12 September (Day 2 offers) - Offers released 19 September

Closes 26 September (Day 3) - Offers Released 4 October

Guaranteed accommodation to students 

  

University of Newcastle Accommodation

  

NIDA Open Day - Saturday 15 June

NIDA Open Day returns on Saturday 15 June, from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

Open Day is an opportunity to learn about NIDA's courses in the Bachelor of Fine Arts and Diploma programs, meet our expert teaching staff and our talented students and alumni, tour the world-class facilities, see our students in live productions on stage and in behind-the-scenes roles, and discover why NIDA produces some of the world’s most in-demand storytellers across stage, screen and beyond.

If you have students or contacts that are interested in a creative career and want to explore possibilities in the performing and dramatic arts, then don't miss NIDA Open Day 2024

Register here

As part of the Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst’s commitment to improving the literacy outcomes for all students, the CEDB has created the role of a Literacy Coach in all secondary schools. The school Literacy Coach works closely with the CEDB English Literacy Education Officer, Kristi Ryan, the School Leadership Team, Faculty Coordinators and staff across the school to support the implementation of faculty based literacy projects that meet the unique subject specific literacy needs of key learning areas across the school.

Teaching staff have been engaged in professional learning and provided with opportunities to develop strategies and embed a focus on writing across the curriculum.

One of the core values of the St Matthews way is Excellence and we have been seeing students striving for excellence in their writing by following the paragraph structures explicitly being taught within each subject area. 

Here are some examples of great paragraphs our students have been writing.

Melodie Coleman | Literacy Coach 

On the 13th of May Liana Pendlebury of Year 11 took part in the Plain English Speaking Award at Parkes Christian School. Out of all the talented speakers, Liana secured the second position, showcasing exceptional eloquence, confidence, and poise on stage. This remarkable accomplishment not only reflects Liana's hard work and perseverance but also underscores her ability to articulate ideas effectively and captivate audiences with her words. She completed an eight minute prepared speech and a three minute impromptu speech. All of this was achieved in her first ever Public Speaking event.

The Plain English Speaking Award aims to encourage the use of clear and effective spoken English. Since its inception in 1978, the competition has provided an opportunity for NSW students to improve their confidence and to develop their speech-writing and public speaking skills. Liana will now progress to the regional finals in an attempt to secure for the school the Australia-Britain Shield for Plain English Speaking and the Westminster Stone.

Special thanks to Mrs Maria Starick (English teacher) whose dedication and knowledge has helped Liana to achieve this amazing goal. 

Tim Doyle | English Teacher

Dio Cross Country

Congratulations to the 40 students who competed at the Secondary Dio Cross Country Carnival in Orange, May 9th. All students demonstrated excellence both on and off the track. We would like to congratulate everyone on their positive participation and we are thrilled to announce that we had 16 students qualify to compete at NSWCCC Cross Country in Sydney next month.

Congratulations to the following students who qualified for CCC:

• Monique Bennetts
• Daisy MacDougall
• Sarah Darker
• Ruby George
• Sarah Willmott
• Lihena Tavita
• Halle Potter
• Jonathan Potgeiter
• Vincent Sommer
• Wes Pirie
• Isaac Whan
• Jacob Williams
• Sam Walker
• Max Atkinson
• Beau Sutherland
• Riley Rankin

We would also like to congratulate our 12 Year old girls and 12 Year old boys who came away with the diocesan Ages Champions title!

Mrs McCarney and Miss Hartley | PDHPE 

The Midford Uniform Shop is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8.00am to 4.00pm.

EFTPOS only, no cash.

Enjoy the convenience of online shopping. Save time and energy by ordering your uniforms online in six easy steps:

1. Go to midford.com.au
2. Select St Matthews Catholic School from the Online School Shops tab
3. New users to click the ‘Register New Account’ button
4. Start the registration process by selecting St Matthews Catholic School from the drop-down menu and add the unique school pass phrase: “Matthews1912”
5. Add your personal information, create a username and password
6. Order the items you need, select pick-up in store/deliver to school.

Online orders for Primary will be delivered to the school office on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1:30pm. Cut off time for ordering is 1.00pm.
Online orders for Secondary will be delivered to the school office on Wednesdays and Fridays at 9.00am. Cut off time for ordering is 3:30pm the day before.
Online orders for shop pick up - pick up only within the shop hours, please allow 1 hour after ordering for collection.

If you have any queries please contact the uniform shop directly:
Phone: 0439 442 509 or Email: st.matthews@midford.com.au