St Agnes Catholic High School ph: 8882 0700

fax: 8882 0790

email:[email protected]

to truth through love

Diary Dates… 8 February

SCHOOL WEBSITE: www.stagnesrootyhill.catholic.edu.au

Year 10 Rosary

8 February, 2013

12 February

Welcome to all our St Agnes families for 2013. A special welcome to all our new students who have enrolled this year, and to their families.

Shrove Tuesday 13 February Ash Wednesday Liturgy 18 February Swimming Carnival at Mt Druitt Swimming Pool 20 February

22 February Year 9 Rosary Year 8 iPad Training Day 26 February

In 2013 choose to be a success. Choose to be a positive, faith filled member of our St Agnes community. Think of how you will make a contribution, as a member of this Catholic community, that ensures we are all benefiting together. As St Paul wrote, “It is time for us to walk in the newness of life”. Seize the moment and make it count so all can benefit.

Year 7/2014 Information Night

Welcome To our new staff for 2013: Jo-Anne Petersons will be joining our Special Education team, Sarah Mackney (PDHPE), Nikki Valleri (HSIE), Rachel Vincent (TAS) and Christopher Azzopardi (HSIE).

4 March P & F meeting, 7pm 8 March

Building Project

Year 8 Rosary 13 March Year 8 Reflection Day

Year 7 Camp

The longer I live the more I realise the impact that my attitude has had on my life. My attitudes have affected every aspect of my life. I cannot go back and change the past but what is really special is that I have a choice every day regarding the attitude I will embrace for that day. This is the beginning of a brand new school year for each of us. No one here can go back and change things however we can all go back and make a brand new end!

School Photos

18 - 20 March

This year presents an opportunity to make a new start, a new approach, a new way of seeing things, a new way of achieving my goals. Therefore, what are our goals for 2013, as a family, as a parent, as a student. How will I achieve what I want in these goals?

The photographs on page 7, taken in January 2013, show the work progressing on the enclosing of the undercroft. The projected finishing date is 22nd February. This project will allow us to have a hall with multi media and hospitality facilities. It will be a great acquisition for our community.

Peter Brogan Principal

Our newsletter will ONLY be available online from Term 1 Week 4. If you have not provided us with your email address subscribe to our ENews to receive notification that our newsletter is available on our website. Go to the school website http://www.stagnesrootyhill.catholic.edu.au. On the right hand side of the page under E-News click on ‘Sign up now’.

Newsletters will NOT be distributed to students after this edition. A member of the Christ Catholic College Community of Schools

CHRIST CATHOLIC COLLEGE COMMUNITY OF SCHOOLS St Agnes Catholic High School Evans Road Rooty Hill Ph: 02 8882 0700 Fax: 02 8882 0790 St Clare’s Catholic High School 175 Buckwell Drive Hassall Grove Ph: 02 9835 2466 Fax: 02 9835 2539

Loyola Senior High School 91 North Parade Mt Druitt Ph: 02 9832 4455 Fax: 02 9832 1839

From the Assistant Principal We welcome you to the 2013 school year at St Agnes Catholic High School. In particular, we extend a very warm welcome to our new Year 7 families and recent new arrivals to the St Agnes community. The purpose of this newsletter is to provide our families with a variety of information regarding the expectations of all our students. As partners in the education of your sons/ daughters, we rely on the support and assistance of parents to ensure that these expectations are achieved. Safety: The safety and well being of your child is our highest priority. Parents are reminded that there is NO SUPERVISION for students prior to 7.40am. Similarly, there is no supervision of students after 3:00pm. We encourage parents to use the drop- off and pick-up areas outside the school and not to stop for long periods to avoid congestion. We also recommend that if you pick-up your child on Evans Road that you instruct your child to cross at the designated crossing point. Attendance: Students must attend school and arrive at lessons on time. Students are to be at school by 8:10am ready to commence Homeroom at 8:15am. Parents are asked to ensure that students have travel arrangements in place that allow them to be at school by 8:10am. If they are later than this they are required to bring a late note with them explaining the reason for the lateness. Leave from School: Any parent wishing to take their child out of school for an extended time for reasons other than illness is asked to seek approval from the Principal. Forms will be issued for the parents to complete. Parents wanting to pick-up your son/daughter early from school need to ensure that a note has been provided and that they have presented it to the relevant Stage Coordinator well in advance of the time of pick-up. Forms can also be downloaded from our website. Uniform Policy: As you would be aware when you enrolled your child, St Agnes actively promotes high standards of uniform and presentation from our students. Uniform requirements are clearly listed in the School Diary and are regularly communicated to students at school assemblies, Stage meetings and to parents in the Newsletter and at information evenings. Mobile Phones: The use of mobile phones by students during school time is NOT permitted. The Student Management guidelines, outlined in the school diary, state that the mobile phone will be confiscated and parents contacted to come and collect it in person. Any student that needs to make a call must do so through the front office. Similarly, parents who need to contact students for any reason should do so through the school office on 8882 0700. Points of contact: During the year there may be a time when you would like to contact a member of staff but are not sure as to whom to contact. Please find enclosed the appropriate person to see about particular issues. I am always available on 88820701 or [email protected].

a diverse community learning together

School photos are to be taken on Wednesday 20th February and are expected to be delivered before the end of the Term. The Swimming Carnival is on Monday 18th February at Mt Druitt Swimming Centre, Mt Druitt and all parents are invited to attend.

Peter Regan Assistant Principal

From the Religious Education Coordinator Events Coming Up: February 12th, 2013 Shrove Tuesday - Pancakes/Donuts Before School/Recess February 13th, 2013 Ash Wednesday Liturgies During the holidays Bishop (Most Rev.) Anthony FisherOP released a statement to the faithful of Parramatta concerning the Whitlam report. I urge you to read carefully the words of our Bishop. As teachers we play a vital role in delivering the message of Jesus Christ. We need to be well informed about the Catholic Church, her past and her present. You can access this information at http://www.catholic.org.au/

The Rosary 2013 will see a continuation of the Rosary by each Year group. Year 8 began in Week 1 of Term 1. Year 9 will begin the Rosary in Term 2 Week 1, Year 10 will begin in Term 3 Week 1 and Year 7 will begin the Rosary in Term 4 Week 1.

The Angelus As a Catholic School in the Parramatta Diocese, St Agnes Catholic High School will begin to pray the Angelus each day at 12pm in Term 2. This famous prayer evolved from a recitation of 3 Hail Mary’s following an evening bell around the 12th century into its present form in the 16th Century. The Angelus quotes from Luke’s Gospel “be it done to me according to thy word”. This quote pays tribute to Mary’s role in the Incarnation. Mary said “yes” to God and therefore showed us the ultimate example of trust in our Creator. These are words about being made worthy of the promises of Christ, these are also found in the Rosary. During Term 1, the Catholic Identity leaders will invite students to say the Angelus at 8am in the Prayer Room. The Angelus by Jean-Francois Millet 1857

V. The Angel of the Lord declared unto Mary. R. And she conceived of the Holy Spirit. Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, Now and at the hour of our death. Amen V. Behold the handmaid of the Lord. R. Be it done unto me according to thy word. Hail Mary, etc. V. And the Word was made Flesh. R. And dwelt among us. Hail Mary, etc. V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God. R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. LET US PRAY Pour forth, we beseech Thee, O Lord, Thy grace into our hearts, that we to whom the Incarnation of Christ Thy Son was made known by the message of an angel, may by His Passion and Cross be brought to the glory of His Resurrection. Through the same Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Social Justice It is pertinent for the Catholic school to become a centre of Justice. The cost of living, the laws we live by, the places we visit, the countries we travel to, the clothes we wear, the groceries we buy, the houses we rent, the cars we drive are all affected by human decisions. What if we could find better ways to live? What if human beings cared more for each other than each other’s goods? What if we all ‘Stepped Up’ each day for each other? Changing valueless culture is hard. However, the St Agnes ‘Step Up’ team aim to be consistent in their approach and dedicated to working slowly but surely to inform and teach others. It is our human duty as Christians to love our neighbours and to care for our environment. One of the best ways to do this is by being informed, by making good and loving decisions. As confronting and unmanageable the problems of the world seem, it is our duty to find better ways to live. As we grow in our understanding of the world we grow in our understanding of each other. The next step is to take responsibility for the decisions we make. The “Step Up” group will meet on Wednesdays at lunchtime in the Prayer Room. Our focus for 2013 is the environment. St Francis was ahead of his time in his undying love for the earth, its plants, its animals and its survival. As Christians we are responsible for our planet. We must be the voice for all of God’s creations that cannot speak for themselves. We are instruments of peace.

World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) Work

Bears

Live Animal Export

Campaigning to protect bears from cruelty and captivity

Australia is the world’s largest exporter of animals for slaughter

I look forward to meeting new members of the St Agnes community over the next year.

“PEACE is generosity. It is right and it is duty.” Oscar A. Romero Rebecca Wong Religious Education Coordinator

Parents & Friends Association St Agnes Parents & Friends Association promotes the cause of education by bringing parents, friends, students and teachers into an active partnership. Its objective is to support the school in its Catholic education endeavours and where possible provide financial support for the school. It is open to all members within the St Agnes community. Meetings are held once per term on a Monday evening, commencing at 7.00pm in the Chappotin Centre. EVERYONE IS WELCOME TO ATTEND The first P&F Meeting for 2013 is on Monday 4 March 2013

From the Teaching & Learning Coordinator With the continued introduction of student iPads this year, many of the student learning resources and notices will be distributed to them in electronic format on the school ‘Moodle’. A link is available to it on our school website homepage. Years 7-10 Assessment Handbooks which outline the school policy in regards to the completion and submission of assessment tasks, as well as the assessment schedules for each subject, will soon be available on Moodle. It is a good idea to go through the Assessment Handbook with your child and ensure that they are aware of assessment expectations and submission dates for tasks. Already I have posted student timetables as well as equipment lists for 2013 on our Moodle. Students in Years 9 & 10 will have the opportunity during Week 3 to see me regarding possibly changing their elective subjects for this year. A reminder that there is no guarantee students will be able to make any changes to their elective choices. Changes can only occur if there is a vacancy in another elective class they wish to move to. All students should be setting realistic learning goals that they plan to achieve this academic year. This is best done on a semester basis and involves students identifying subject areas they have experienced difficulties in and examining ways they can improve and achieve their personal best. If students do not have good study habits, it will be hard for them to achieve. Trying to implement the 10 study habits below could see student learning capacity grow.

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Keep your study desk and materials organised and tidy. Schedule in your study time and stick to it. Set short-term goals for each study session and reward yourself when you meet those goals. Read the chapter of information that will be covered the following day. Write down any questions you have that pertain to that subject. Make it a point to try and use new terms and concepts in order for them to really sink in. Do not study for hours on end. Study for 45 minutes and then take 15 minutes off. Try and correspond your class notes and textbook/online information. Make sure to cut out all distractions when studying: phones, TV, iPods, surfing the net, loud areas, etc. Go to bed after you study. Your brain will mull over what you just learned while you sleep. There will be a good chance you will remember it pretty well when you wake up. Keep a positive attitude about your studies. If you find yourself dreading your studies, change your attitude and think how exciting it is to learn something new!

I wish all students the very best in their academic studies and look forward to seeing and hearing many fantastic success stories from teachers and students this year.

Laurence De Martin Teaching & Learning Coordinator

The Federal Government’s Schoolkids Bonus The Federal Government’s Schoolkids Bonus – worth $820 a year for each high school student - is paid in two instalments in January and July. Families receiving Family Tax Benefit Part A, as well as young people in school receiving Youth Allowance, and others receiving certain income support or veterans’ payments are eligible for the Schoolkids Bonus. Some families who claim their Family Tax Benefit at the end of the financial year will receive their payment then. The Bonus can be spent in any way a family thinks will meet the needs of students, including on uniforms, clothing, stationery and school books. Families can also set money aside to pay for future school excursions or other school related expenses like sports registration fees and music lessons. Further information about the Schoolkids Bonus, can be accessed at www.australia.gov.au/schoolkidsbonus.

Year 10 Leadership Team School Leaders Congratulations to our school leaders who will be formally inducted into their roles at our Opening School Mass on 7 February 2013. School Captains:

Karl David

Catholic Identity:

Kirk Capistrano

Maria Asiata

Catherina Curray

Social Justice:

Tori Coleman

Rachael Woodward

Kassandra De Guzman

Pastoral Care:

Andres Sau

Michelle Taco

Erica Trigo-Garcia

Julyen Villa-Real

Communication:

Laura Moran

Tristen Ellis

Alexandra McWhinney

Jahn Lopez

Environment: Events:

Aaron Stanford Anisa Balfas

Jessica Youhanna Blazenka Simic

Chloe-Lee Martin Tom Maroki

Sabrina Callanta

Sports:

Phillip Salanga

Skye Bennett

House Leaders:

Kwame Otteng

Nicole Portelli

Chisholm:

Job Byrne

Tegan Carroll

Francis:

Denis Erupi

Selene Doherty

Mackillop:

Adrian Leonardo

Jemima Masterson

Xavier:

Harley Solimen

Mikiella Sison

Liana Fallon

Peer Support Leaders Peer Support at St Agnes is a program which primarily seeks to help Year 7 students feel happy, secure, supported and positive about themselves. It also aims to develop leadership, confidence and organisational skills in Year 10 students as they mentor the younger members of our community. At the end of Year 9, students may apply to become Peer Support leaders. After a selection process, they undergo training. The following year, they are placed in groups and conduct a programme with Year 7 students during the first term. The programme activities are entertaining and well structured and involve a series of activities in which students communicate their viewpoints, listen to the ideas of others and show respect and support for each individual in the group. Apart from the scheduled meetings, Peer Support leaders act as "big brothers/sisters" to their Year 7 students. They are a friendly face in the playground, a sympathetic ear in troubled times and a word of advice when required. Peer Support is a very effective aid in building a strong, peaceful school community. Eli-Anne AbiChemouni Charisse Adriano

Kimberley Dela Cruz Chycain Delange-Loloa

Chloe McKeon Alexandra McWhinney

Mary Shammas Mikiella Sison

Maria Asiata

Theresa De Vera

Hanna Mondala

Mikayla Smith

Sabrina Callanta Tegan Carroll

Selene Doherty Tristen Ellis

Laura Moran Brittany Murphy

Michelle Taco Cyrus Tobias

Tori Coleman

Liana Fallon

Maxine Napret

Erica Trigo-Garcia

Kirk Capistrano

Helen Jajaw

Jarod Nool

Carla Ulberg

Holly Cranfield

Lidya Koko

Kwame Otteng

Rachael Woodward

Catherina Curray

Kyle Marcelo

Nicole Portelli

Julyen Villa-Real

Therese Cusi

Chloe-Lee Martin

Dianne Ramos

Jessica Youhanna

Teagan Cutajar

Jemima Masterson

Andres Sau

Karl David

Kristen Matti

Phillip Salanga

SMS - Student Absences Our student rolls are their son/daughter is no text will be sent. action. Please ensure notify the office.

now marked electronically, and as an extension of this, parents will be notified by a text message if absent from school. Parents can assist by notifying the school their son/daughter will be absent, and Many parents have expressed appreciation for the communication and see this as a very positive the Office has an accurate record of your contact details and if there are any changes please

Building update The projected finishing date for the new hall is 22nd February. This project will allow us to have a hall with multi media and hospitality facilities. It will be a great acquisition for our community.

Moodle - Viewing Your Childs Work Samples Last term, during our ‘Know Your Leaner’ lessons students were very busy collecting their work samples in preparation for our parent and learning advisor interviews. During these interviews students used their work samples to reflect on their own learning journey. Students utilised Moodle, our online learning environment, to store their work samples. Each learning advisor was able to view an uploaded work sample from each subject area. For the rest of the year our students are encouraged to continue this process of updating their work samples on Moodle to ensure they are maintaining a holistic record of their achievements. Below is a series of steps that parents can follow to view your child’s uploaded work samples. Step 1: Our Moodle page web address is http://bit.ly/stagnes Once you type the above address into your web browser the following page will be loaded. Step 2: Every student at St Agnes has been given a unique username and password. You are able to use your child’s username and password to login to our Moodle.

Step 3: Once you have logged on to Moodle our home page will be displayed. Each Learning Advisor group (7.1, 7.2, 7.3, etc) has its own Moodle page under the subject heading of Know Your Learner.

Step 4: Find your child’s learning advisor group under the appropriate heading. For example, Year 9 learning advisor groups can be found by clicking on Know Your Learner Year 9. Each Know Your Leaner Moodle page has been locked with an enrolment key. Your child’s learning advisor has already enrolled the students into the correct page.

Step 5: Once you click on the correct Know Your Learner class (do not click on the teacher’s name) then your child’s unique page will appear. This page will display the name of every subject he/she is currently studying at school.

Step 6: You can view the uploaded work sample for each subject by clicking on the work sample link. This link is in blue and is highlighted below with a red box around it.

Step 7: Once you click on the work sample link you will be able to view the work sample that was uploaded by your child. You just need to click on the file to download a copy of your child’s work to view it.

Step 8: If your child has yet to upload a work sample for the subject you are currently viewing they will need to do so. To do this they can click on the ‘Browse’ button located in the middle of the screen. They will need to find where he/she have saved a copy of their work and then click ‘open’. Step 9: The name of their file will appear in the text box next to the ‘Browse’ button. Next you need to click on the ‘Upload the file’ button and your selected file will be uploaded to Moodle.

Step 10: Once you have viewed each work sample you need to return to our home page before you can log out of Moodle. To do this you can click on the ‘StAgnes’ link on the top left of the screen. To log out you click on the ‘Log Out’ link located on the top right of the home page.

Damien McGuire Emerging Technologies Coordinator 

Breakfast Club Free Breakfast 7:40-8:10 a.m. Near the Canteen Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 

2013 iPad Program During 2013 St Agnes Catholic High School will continue its ‘Have a go, Share and eValuate (HSV) one to one’ iPad program. The objective of this program is to support the teaching and learning of our students within 21st century learning spaces that are connected to and influenced by wider educational communities. During Term One our Year 8 cohort will be the second year group to achieve a ‘one to one’ iPad status. This means that each student in Year 8 will be required to obtain an iPad which will be used to assist their learning at St Agnes Catholic High School. Year 8 students will participate in an iPad tutorial and training day 22nd February (Friday week 4). On this day students will be taught how to setup their iPads so that they can be used on our school network and they will investigate some the Apps which will be used throughout the year. Students in Year 8 will receive their App list and purchasing codes, that will cover the cost of the required Apps, before their training day. For Semester One 2013 it is only compulsory for Year 8 and Year 9 students to bring an iPad to school. However, St Agnes Catholic High School has a Bring Your Own Device Policy. This policy states that any student in Year 7 and Year 10 for 2013 can bring their iPad to school to assist their learning but it is not compulsory for these year groups. If you do wish to purchase an iPad for your son or daughter I have listed our recommended models and case: 16GB iPad HD (also known as an iPad 3) with Wi-Fi, placed in a Full Coverage case. OR 16GB iPad 4th Generation with Wi-Fi, placed in a Full Coverage case. An iPad Mini is not recommended as this model has a reduced display and typing surface, which are not suitable for use at St Agnes Catholic High School. A ‘full coverage case’ is a case that covers the front and back of the device and includes an inbuilt stand. Any purchased iPad that is used at the school needs to be registered with an AppleCare Protection Plan. This will extend your one year warranty and 90 days technical support. You can access these at any time. For more information about AppleCare Protection Plans please visit http://www.apple.com/au/support/products/ipad.html If you required further information regarding this programme please contact the school on 8882 0700.

Damien McGuire Emerging Technologies Coordinator 

Responsible Use of Technology The school provides a range of information and communication technologies, network infrastructure and Internet services for education, communication and research purposes for all members of the school community. Families should be aware that some material available on the Internet may contain items that are illegal, defamatory, inaccurate or offensive. Acceptable Use All students are expected to use these resources in a responsible, ethical and legal manner, demonstrating respect for others and an appreciation of the right to learn of all students to learn . The use of the network must be for educational purposes only and consistent with the educational objectives of the school. Use of the network will be permitted only after the student and parent (or guardian) have signed the user agreement in the school diary ( page viii) . Failure to observe any of these provisions may result in suspension of access rights for a period of time.

Damien McGuire Emerging Technologies Coordinator 

Uniform Requirements A student’s sense of belonging and identity is aided by wearing a school uniform. Pride in the school is often demonstrated by the manner in which a student wears his/her school uniform. All St Agnes uniform items other than shoes and tights must be purchased at the school uniform shop. Girls Uniform

Boys Uniform

School skirt (below the knee length)

School grey trousers

St Agnes school blouse

Short sleeved, school shirt, tucked in (long sleeves optional in Terms 2 & 3)

Opaque black tights

Standard dark socks

(turn over socks are optional in Terms 1 & 4) Standard polished lace up school shoes

Standard polished lace up school shoes

such as ‘Neo’ (no elevated heels)

such as Roc ‘Maggie’ or Lynx Utility

School cap

School cap

School jumper (optional)

School jumper (optional)

School Blazer (Terms 2 & 3 and formal occasions)

School Blazer (Terms 2 & 3 and formal occasions)

Plain black scarf (optional in Terms 2 & 3 only)

Plain black scarf (optional in Terms 2 & 3 only)

Plain black gloves (optional in Terms 2 & 3 only)

Plain black gloves (optional in Terms 2 & 3 only) School Tie Black Belt

SKIRT REQUIREMENTS Girls are to ensure:  their skirt button is worn on the left hand side of their waist and the label is at the back of the garment.  the temporary stitching at the hem is removed to release the pleats.  the length of the girls skirt is NOT shortened as it is intended that it be worn below the knee.  skirts are NOT rolled over at the waist as this affects the hang of the skirt. A few helpful hints to ensure the good presentation of the skirt:  Skirts need to be dry cleaned, hand washed, or washed on a wool cycle only.  The shape of the skirt holds best if it is hung on a hanger to dry.  To ensure the pleats fall correctly it is best to press down both the hem and pleats. This works best using a damp cloth when ironing. SCHOOL BAG—The St Agnes school bag is a compulsory part of the school uniform SPORTS UNIFORM

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School cap or hat

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School tracksuit

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School sport shirt with crest

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School shorts

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White ankle length School socks

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Clean lace up joggers

WEARING OF SCHOOL UNIFORM Correct school uniform is to be worn travelling to and from the school, while at the school and at any formal occasion designated by the Principal. The school uniform should, at all times, be clean and neat.

GROOMING

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Students are expected to keep their hair clean, neat and tidy at all times. Students are to keep their hair off the face and out of their eyes.

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Boys hairstyles should not go below the neckline. Boys must be clean shaven.

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Girls with hair below the shoulders should have it tied back. All hair accessories are to be black. There are to be no extremes of fashion in hair style, cut, colour or accessories.

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No make up or nail polish is permitted.

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The Assistant Principal will make the final decision on what is extreme.

JEWELLERY In the interest of safety and security, no inappropriate jewellery should be worn. Body studs, chains or bracelets are not permitted. Inappropriate jewellery will be confiscated, secured in the school office and returned to parents or at the end of term. The following only may be worn:

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A simple wrist watch

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A plain gold or silver ring (with no elevations, stones or sharp points)

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A plain gold or silver chain with a Christian cross or Christian medal (to be worn underneath the shirt)

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One pair of plain gold or silver sleepers or small studs without stones, one in the lobe of each ear. (Boys are permitted an appropriate earring in one earlobe only.)

OTHER

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Students may wear their sports uniform, including tracksuit, to and from school on their designated Sport and double period PDHPE days.

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In Terms 1 and 4 the tracksuit is optional.

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Blazer pockets are available for purchase, this is to be placed on second hand blazers.

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All items of uniform must be clearly marked with the student’s name.

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Parents may be contacted to bring in the correct uniform if students are inappropriately dressed.

Contact Information for 2013 THE SCHOOL LEADERSHIP TEAM Principal

Mr Peter Brogan

Assistant Principal

Mr Peter Regan

8882 0710

Religious Education Coordinator

Ms Rebecca Wong

8882 0711

Teaching and Learning Coordinator

Mr Laurence De Martin

8882 0713

Information Technology Coordinator

Mr Usman Khan

8882 0712

Counsellor

Mr Paul Smith

8882 0710

CURRICULUM TEAM Religious Education

Ms Rebecca Wong

English

Mr Brian Doran

Mathematics

Mr Laurence De Martin

Science

Mrs Pam Kehal

HSIE

Ms Sarah Beckett

CAPA/LOTE

Mrs Anneke Reemst

TAS

Ms Sue Roberts

PDHPE

Mr Greg Devine

Integrated Learning/QTF

Ms Bonita Carlin

Sports

Ms Nicole Jobson

Emerging Technologies

Mr Damien McGuire

Learning Support Ms Jo-Anne Peterson

Teacher Librarian

Mrs Marie Smith

PASTORAL CARE TEAM Year 7 Stage Coordinator

Mrs Julie Atkins

Year 8 Mrs Julie Atkins

Year 9 Mr John Cruickshank

Year 10 Mr John Cruickshank

Assistant Stage Coordinator Learning Advisors

Ms Alexandra Rojo

Mr Christopher Chavez

Mr Patrick Madigan

Mr Gavin Hilder

1. Ms Bonita Carlin

Ms Claire Moxham

Ms Linda Hicks

Ms Jeunelle Juarez

2. Mr Richard Szczygiel

Mrs Jubilee Bedi

Ms Justine Zarebski

Mrs Adele Sukkarieh

3. Mrs Shanti Chand

Mrs Pam Kehal

Mr Robert Weaver

Ms Denise Davidson

4. Mr Vijay Krishna

Ms Chelsea Brogan

Mrs Joan D’Souza

Mr Rajesh Kumar

5. Mrs Suzan Habib

Mr Guy Tyler

Ms Sarah Beckett

Mr Daniel Petrie

6. Ms Nicole Jobson

Mr Rajend Singh

Mr Brian Doran

Ms Sue Roberts

7. Ms Sarah Mackney

Mrs Anneke Reemst

Mrs Aroona Naidoo

Mr Damien McGuire

8. Ms Rachel Vincent

MsTahlia Gannan

Mr Chris Azzopardi

9.

Mr Phillip Mackie

10.

Ms Josiah Raad

Mr Greg Devine

SUPPORT STAFF Business Manager

8882 0702

Mrs Lorraine Bailey

School Fee Secretary

8882 0706

Mrs Rita Mizzi

Principal Secretary

8882 0703

Mrs Bernadette Shalala

Reception

8882 0700

Mrs Donna Missio, MrsTherese Carroll, Ms Susan Hagarty

Student Office (Absences)

8882 0707

Ms Natalie De Luca, Mrs Annette O’Keeffe

Uniform Shop

8882 0708

Ms Cherie Borthistle

Canteen Manager

8882 0709

Mrs Diane Clifton

Teachers Aides

Mrs Sandra Shaw, Ms Janet Green, Mrs Maree Copping, Mrs Maria Vella

Library Assistants

Mrs Sharon Berman, Mrs Anthea McGinty - Rice

Food Technology Assistant

Mrs Nola Balzan

Science Assistant

Ms Cherie Borthistle

Maintenance Staff

Mr John Frederic

IT Trainees

Mr Gerardo Francisco and Mr Aron Amos

Who to Contact The list below should assist you in knowing who to contact with questions about the school or your child’s education. Telephone the school in the morning by 9.00 am on 8882 0744 Short absences

Absences longer than 1 week

Advise the Homeroom Teacher, by letter, within three days of the beginning of the absence.

A medical certificate is required for absences of more than 3 days. Illness – telephone the school and send a letter to the Stage Coordinator. Extended /planned absence – a letter and application for exemption from attendance (AEA) to the Principal, giving at least 2 weeks notice. (AEA available from the office and from the website) Subject Teacher

Academic Progress

Assessment Tasks

Teaching & Learning Coordinator Learning Support Teacher Assistant Principal

Curriculum Teaching & Learning Coordinator

& Examinations Depending on the nature and severity:

 Homeroom Teacher/Subject Teacher/Assistant Stage Coordinator Bullying

 Stage Coordinator  Counsellor  Assistant Principal  Principal Depending on the nature and seriousness of the complaint

 Stage /Assistant Stage Coordinator (pastoral / general issues) Complaints

 Teaching & Learning Coordinator (curriculum issues)  Assistant Principal  Principal Homeroom Teacher

Personal, Family and

Stage Coordinator

Pastoral Care

Assistant Principal

Matters

Counsellor Principal Teaching & Learning Coordinator (subject matters)

Discipline matters

Stage Coordinator (general matters) Assistant Principal Principal

Lost Property

Student Administration Office

Finance (Fees)

Business Manager or School Fee Secretary

Uniforms

Stage Coordinator (management) Uniform Shop Manager (purchasing)

Tax File Number Applications for Secondary Students As a number of our secondary students are now getting part time jobs, the school has registered for the Australian Tax Offices (ATO) Secondary School Tax File Number (TFN) Program. Students are required to apply for a TFN through the school.



The information provided on the completed applications will be treated confidentially



It is important to complete the TFN form correctly and completely



It is important to sign the form



The information provided on the application will be certified by the school after cross-checking against the information held on the school’s records



It is recommended this be organized well before commencing casual work as it is a minimum of 6 weeks for processing at the ATO.

Upon allocation by the ATO of a TFN to a student, the student will be notified in writing at their postal address. If any student would like to apply for a Tax File Number they can collect a form from the Student Office.

How to receive our Newsletter Our newsletter will ONLY be available online from Term 1 Week 4. Newsletters will NOT be distributed to students after this date.

To receive notification that the newsletter is available 1. Go to the school website http://www.stagnesrootyhill.catholic.edu.au 2. On the right hand side of the page under E-News click on ‘Sign up now to receive the latest news via email’ 3. You will see the following E-News screen:

4. Simply enter your name, email address and required information and click ‘subscribe’ 5. Now you simply wait for your fortnightly notification the newsletter is available to download.

SWIMMING CARNIVAL 18 FEBRUARY 2013 MT DRUITT SWIMMING CENTRE MOUNT STREET, MT DRUITT

2012 Christmas Hamper Feedback

Uniform Shop Opening Hours -Thursdays between 10.00am and 12:00 noon, during school terms only. Students are able to attend the Uniform Shop at recess on Thursdays. The uniform shop is closed during school holidays. Cash, Eftpos, Cheque, Visa and Mastercard are accepted. We do not accept American Express. PLEASE NOTE: There are NO layby facilities available at the Uniform Shop. Phone – A direct line to the Uniform Shop is 8882 0708 Thursdays only 10.00am to 12.00 noon. Uniform enquiries can also be made through the school office on 8882 0700. Orders can be left at the School Office to be filled on the following Thursday through the following means:  Credit card payments can be made over the phone on 8882 0700.  Cash, cheque, credit card or EFTPOS payments can be made in person at the Administration Office.  Send cash, cheque or your credit card details in an envelope with a note detailing what you wish to purchase with your child on Thursday. Sports caps, ties, calculators & safety glasses are available for students to purchase at recess and lunchtime from the school canteen on any school day The prices below are correct at the time of printing but are subject to change depending on manufacturing costs. Girls Uniform Blouse

$45.00

Skirt

$130.00

Tights

$10.00

Navy Blue socks

$ 4.00

Pullover

$75.00

Blazer (Compulsory in Terms 2 and 3)

$165.00

Boys Uniform Shirt

$35.00

Grey Pants

$50 00

Pullover

$75.00

Tie (Compulsory)

$25.00

Blazer (Compulsory in Terms 2 and 3)

$165.00

Sports Uniform (for both girls and boys) Polo Shirt

$40.00

Shorts

$30.00

Track Jacket

$80.00

Track Pants

$50.00

Sports Cap

$15.00

Accessories Calculators

$27.00

Design & Technology Aprons

$15.00

Bibles

$30.00

Safety Glasses

$5.00

School Bag

$60.00

Canteen Price List The canteen is open each day of the school week. It is run under the “Healthy Canteen” guidelines set out by the NSW Health Department. Lunch orders must be placed in the canteen before school. Students are served at the start of day, recess and lunch times. Parents are invited to help with this important service to our students. If you would like to volunteer please contact Mrs Diane Clifton on 8882 0709 to discuss as suitable time to help . Even if it is only for a few hours a day, your time and help will be appreciated.

Food Available before School Sausage Roll Pizza Rotunda Cheese & Bacon Roll Hot Chocolate

$2.00 $2.00 $2.00 $1.00

Sandwiches Chicken & Salad Roll Cheese & Bacon Roll Salad Box (chicken or salmon) Sausage Rolls Pies Wraps

$3.00 $4.00 $2.00 $4.00 $2.50 $3.50 $3.50

Chicken Burgers Ham Burgers Hot Chicken Roll Lasagne Spinach & Ricotta Roll Pizza Banana Bread Fruit Chips Ice Blocks

$3.50 $3.50 $4.00 $2.50 $2.50 $2,50 $2.50 per serve $0.50 per piece $1.00 $0.50 - $3.00

10 varieties Many varieties

Drinks Water

$1.00

Flavoured Water

$1.50

Juice

$2.50

Breaker Milk

$1.50

4 flavours

Up & Go

$1.50

4 flavours

Big M Milk

$2.50

4 flavours

Powerade

$3.00

LOL

$1.50

Iced Tea

$3.00

School Photos - 20 February 2013 On Wednesday 20 February students will have individual ID photographs taken to be used on the school information system and student ID passes. These are also be available for purchase. Photograph envelopes will be distributed to students via their homerooms prior to the photo day. Parents who wish to purchase photographs should complete the envelope clearly and enclose payment. Students are to bring the envelope on the day of the photographs. This envelope goes directly to the photographer. Please ensure the exact money is in the envelope as change will NOT be available. FULL summer uniform is to be worn. The school photos are expected to be available early Term 2.

Year 7 ‘s First Day

Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta News Oasis Youth Group Secondary students are invited to an exciting youth evangelisation event where Bishop Anthony Fisher will launch the "JESUS" CD by OASIS YOUTH GROUP, 6pm Mass, Saturday 16th February at St Patrick's Cathedral, Parramatta. Click here to read the article. Bishops Office Sacramental Coordinator – Casual St Matthew’s Parish at Windsor is seeking to employ a Sacramental Coordinator who will work closely with the Parish Priest and the Parish Team to prepare and manage the programs for Sacraments of Initiation. Click on “Employment” to download the position description at: www.parra.catholic.org.au. Applications close on 17 February. Ash Wednesday: 13 February Australia’s Catholic Bishops invite the faithful to join with them to observe the Fridays of Lent as special days of penance in the wake of the sexual abuse crisis including: * The prayerful reading of Holy Scripture; * A Holy Hour of prayer and petition before the Blessed Sacrament; and * Penance, in particular fasting and abstaining from meat. A list of Ash Wednesday Mass times across the Diocese of Parramatta will be published on the diocesan website: www.parra.catholic.org.au Christian Meditation: 17 February You are invited to a Christian Meditation Renewal & Introduction Day at St Benedict's Monastery. Arrive 10am for 10.30am. Program includes presentations, introduction to Christian Meditation, two periods of meditation, Eucharistic celebration and information exchange. Concludes about 3pm (coffee & tea provided – BYO picnic lunch). Books & CDs for sale. Monastery is at 121 Arcadia Rd, Arcadia, tel (02) 9653 1159. For accommodation at ‘The Cottage’ guest house contact Br Bernard 0438 282 318. Inquiries: Ann Bergman (02) 9498 2625, [email protected] or Ann Lomas (02) 9456 4775, [email protected] Holy Spirit Mission: 16-17 February Jesus our Healer – presented by Fr Hugh Thomas CSsR, a missionary for more than 22 years in the Philippines, and Costandi Bastoli, founding member of the Disciples of Jesus. Catholic Charismatic Renewal is hosting a program that includes: Sunday Mass, Confession, Prayer Ministry, Children’s Ministry, Workshops (coffee & tea provided – BYO lunch). Times: Sat. 9am--4pm; Sun. 11am-5pm. Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 7 Grantham Rd, Seven Hills. Details: CCR Parramatta 0404 093 118, (02) 9864 2430, (02) 9896 3711. World Congress of Families: 15-18 May—Early bird registration closes 28 February. Happy Families – Healthy Economy: a new vision for national prosperity and social progress. Speakers include: * Bradford Wilcox, Director of the National Marriage Project at the University of Virginia, US. His research focuses on marriage, parenthood, and cohabitation, and on the ways that gender, religion, and children influence the quality and stability of marriage and family life; * The Rt Hon Iain Duncan Smith MP, Secretary of State for the UK’s Department for Work and Pensions. In 2004, he founded the influential think tank, the Centre for Social Justice, which worked to develop innovative policies on tackling poverty and welfare reform; * Prof Patrick Parkinson, a specialist in family law, child protection and the law of equity and trusts, Chair of the Family Law Council (2004-07). He is President of the International Society of Family Law. For more information and to register: www.wcfsydney2013.org.au/registration Join The Walk at Norwest: 1 March An opportunity to unite to support local charities. All funds raised will be shared between CatholicCare’s Catherine Villa program and Hills Community Aid. It’s free to register, with a gold coin donation or whatever you can afford. Everybody who registers is eligible to win 1 of 10 $100 shopping vouchers donated by Hills Private Hospital. The Walk route can be comfortably completed in 30min. Virgin Active will distribute bottles of water and the Lions Club will hold a sausage sizzle. Starts from Bella Vista Farm at 11.45am on Friday 1 March. For more information and to register visit: www.thewalknorwest.com.au Turkey Pilgrimage Information Afternoon: 3 March Fr Wim Hoekstra is leading a pilgrimage to ‘St Paul’s World’ in Turkey from 21 Sept. to 6 Oct. You are invited to an information afternoon in St Patrick’s Cathedral Hall on Sunday 3 March at 2.30pm. Itinerary includes: Cruise on the Bosphorus and Mass at St Anthony’s Church, Cappadocia including Goreme Valley and Whirling Dervishes, Limestone Terraces at Pamukkale, ancient Roman ruins at Hierapolis, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace in Istanbul. Further details and booking forms from Fr Wim Hoekstra tel (02) 4739 8928, 0409 908 361, [email protected]

OUR PARISH SCHOOLS

Community Announcements

St Aidan’s Primary 1-5 Adelaide Street Rooty Hill Ph: 02 9625 3181 Fax: 02 9625 5612

Sacred Heart Primary 23 Nelson Street Mt Druitt South Ph: 02 9625 8733 Fax: 02 9832 2258

Inspire Dance & Fitness can create something unique for that special boy or girl in your life. With time often being scarce let INSPIRE help you organise your party and entertainment so you can sit back and enjoy the moment. THEMES:

Holy Family Primary Weber Crescent Emerton Ph: 02 9628 9232 Fax: 02 9628 9589

St John Vianney’s Primary 17 Cameron Street Doonside Ph: 02 9831 1817 Fax: 02 9831 6430

Princess

Pirate

Challenge

Fairy

Zumbatomic

Ballet

Cakes & Cookies Diva Cheer & Champion More Information: call Peta 0409 399 440

ParentLine

provides

confidential,

free,

professional

counselling to families across NSW, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you would like to discuss your relationship with your

adolescent

counsellor

a diverse community learning together

or

with

discuss

a any

other parenting issue, please call 1300 1300 52 or visit our website www.parentline.org.au

OUR PARISHES St Aidan’s 9 Adelaide Street Rooty Hill Ph: 02 9625 8404

Important Information EARLY OFFICE CLOSURE Monday 4 March 2013

Sacred Heart 23 Nelson Street Mt Druitt South Ph: 02 9625 8847

Office will close at 2.30pm.

LEAVING STUDENT POLICY Holy Family 254 Luxford Road Emerton Ph: 02 9628 7272

St John Vianney’s 17 Cameron Street Doonside Ph: 02 9622 3426

Parents are reminded of the Catholic Education Policy regarding school fees if a student leaves St Agnes before the end of Year 10.  A term’s notice (10 school weeks) in writing, must be given to the principal before the removal of a student or a full term’s fees will be payable.  If a student leaves the school during a term, no refund will be made in respect of the remaining portion of that term.

UNIFORM SHOP HOURS

STEP UP

Thursdays - during school terms Wednesday @ Lunchtime

10.00am –12 noon

In the Prayer Room

Orders can be left at the office at any time and will be filled on the following Thursday.

ALL WELCOME

ONLINE & EMAIL COMMUNICATION IN 2013 In 2013 all school notes will be available on the school website http://www.stagnesrootyhill.catholic.edu.au/parents/school-notes-and-publications. In addition, if you have not already done so, we would like all families to sign up for the weekly school newsletter RSS feed at www.stagnesrootyhill.catholic.edu.au.

OFFICE HOURS

ROSARY Friday mornings

8.00am - 3.30pm Message bank facilities available.

In the Prayer Room at 7.50am ALL WELCOME

SCHOOL FEES School fees statements have been mailed out and fees are due 8 March 2013. Please contact Mrs Lorraine Bailey on 8882 0702 or Mrs Rita Mizzi on 8882 0706 if you have not received your fee statement or would like to discuss managing your fees for this year.

SKOOLBAG

HOMEWORK CLUB

Have school event reminders sent straight

Tuesday afternoon

to your iphone!

2.30pm—3.30pm in the Library

Visit www.skoolbag.com.au/stagnes

ALL WELCOME.