Term 4 Week 3

A Message from Leadership

Building Strong Foundations for Learning

This week, we celebrated our first Prep Orientation Morning for our incoming 2026 students. It was a joyous morning as our youngest learners, along with their parents and grandparents, joined us in exploring the Prep classrooms. These sessions not only mark the beginning of a new chapter for these children but also highlight the importance of supporting young learners as they take their first steps into school life.

Prep orientation is a vital part of the transition to school. It helps children become familiar with their learning environment, begin forming a sense of belonging, and feel confident about starting school. Equally important, it provides parents and carers with valuable insights into how they can support their child’s early learning journey. While this is a significant time for our Prep families, it’s also a reminder of how foundational skills developed in the early years benefit all students as they progress through school.

Whether your child is in Prep or Year 6, strong skills in oral language, literacy, and numeracy remain essential. Below are some practical ways families can support their child’s learning at home, helping to build confidence and curiosity at every stage of their education.

Oral Language: Conversations That Matter

Oral language skills are the foundations of learning. Engaging in meaningful conversations at home helps children develop the vocabulary, listening skills, and confidence they need to express themselves effectively. Simple strategies include:

• Encouraging turn-taking during conversations, where everyone has a chance to speak and listen.
• Asking open-ended questions to spark deeper thinking, such as, “What was the best part of your day and why?”
• Sharing stories, playing word games, or singing songs together.

These moments not only promote language development but also strengthen relationships and communication skills—important in every year level.

The Power of Reading

Reading is a skill that underpins success across all areas of learning. No matter their age, children benefit greatly from regular reading at home. Here’s how you can help:

• Read together and discuss books—whether it’s a picture book with your younger child or a novel with your older one.
• Build vocabulary by exploring the meanings of new words and connecting them to real-life experiences.
• Encourage your child to share what they’ve read, whether it’s a school text, a news article, or a favourite story.

By fostering a love of reading, you’re supporting your child’s ability to think critically, solve problems, and engage deeply with the world around them.

Everyday Numeracy: Learning Through Life

Numeracy skills are developed through everyday experiences, making learning both practical and fun. Consider these ideas:

• Involve your child in simple tasks like shopping by asking them to count items (eg “Can you grab six apples?”) or estimate costs.
• Talk about patterns, shapes, and measurements you encounter in daily life, such as baking or gardening.
• Play games that involve numbers, such as card games, dice games, or puzzles.

Whether it’s practising basic counting in Prep or solving complex problems in Year 6, these activities help children see the relevance of numeracy in their daily lives.

A Shared Responsibility

As a school community, we are committed to nurturing every child’s growth- spiritually, intellectually, and socially. While teachers play a central role in guiding learning, the home environment plays an equally important role in reinforcing and extending those skills. Together, we can help our students thrive by instilling confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning that will serve them well throughout their schooling and beyond.

We look forward to continuing this journey with all of our students, and thank you for your ongoing partnership in supporting the education of our children.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Mrs Samantha Suthers - Principal

Prep Orientation Morning

Reflection - Sr Kym Harris

The Liberation of Duty

The Gospel of a couple of Sundays ago (Luke 17:5-10) told of a strange parable for Jesus – there was no twist in the tale. The story was straightforward, nothing shocking or surprising, which itself is surprising in Jesus’ parables. It told of a servant serving his master after a hard day’s work – doing his duty. Now, duty is not a fashionable word. It denotes boredom, drudgery, doing what you have to do. I’ll tell you how it became a word of liberation for me.

My mother was a difficult woman. For her, there was only one thing better than inconveniencing her children – it was having a fight with them. Some time after she was widowed, she wanted to come and stay with me (she had had a fight with the brother she was living with). I was terrified. And the night before she came, I was praying desperately to my father for guidance – and I got it. It was as though I heard him say, ‘Do your duty.’ So, I took that as my guiding light - what a dutiful daughter should do. Over the next eight months, I didn’t pander either to Mum’s demands or my fears. I simply thought about what I should do for her, taking into account the other parts of my life where I had other duties – and that included looking after myself. I won’t say that at the end of that time we had entered into a wonderful mother/daughter relationship. But when Mum left, she knew she had been looked after and I not only wasn’t resentful but I had retained my dignity and self-respect.

Since then, I have often used the question, ‘what is my duty here?’ as a guide. It is easy for many of us to have excessive demands put on us, or have people dump their negative emotions on us…and we get discombobulated. If we stop, say a prayer, and ask ourselves and God, ‘what is my duty here?’, we may find ourselves able to do the right thing – both for us and the other persons.

Loving God, you know how I can be thrown by the demands or emotions of other people. Send me your wise Spirit to guide me through these difficult situations and discover the liberating power of doing my duty. I ask this in Jesus’ name, confident that you will hear me.

Sr Kym Harris osb

School Calendar of Events

Please check the school calendar in Parent Orbit to keep up to date with all the events this term.

Monday 27th October

Award Assembly - 2.10pm

All are welcome to attend the fortnightly Award Assembly. 

Friday 31st October

World Educator's Day

World Educators' Day provides us with a wonderful opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated and hardworking staff at St Francis.

Each day, our teachers and school staff go above and beyond to nurture the minds, hearts, and spirits of our students. Their commitment to excellence and unwavering support for our school community reflect the Gospel values of love, service, and care for one another.

We take this day to recognise and celebrate the incredible efforts of those who inspire learning, foster hope, and guide our students towards their full potential.

Thank you to all of our staff for your tireless work and the positive impact you make every day. You are truly appreciated!

Prep Transition Day

St Francis will be holding our second Prep Transition morning for 2026 Prep students and families, from 9am till 10.30am.

During this time, our current Prep students will have a fun-filled morning in the Year 1 and 1/2 classrooms.

Fr Peter Class Visits

Fr Peter will be visiting the following classes:

• 11.10 - 11.45 am:  Year 5 - Servant Leadership
• 11.50 - 12.15pm:  Year 2A - St Vincent de Paul
• 12.20 - 12.35pm:  Prep B Visit - general conversations
• 12.40 - 1.10 pm:  Year 1A - Visit at the church

All Saints' Day Liturgy - 1.35pm

Parents and friends are most welcome to join students from Year 2 - Year 6  for All Saints' liturgy, hosted by Year 3B.

Important Reminders / Notices

Weather Impacts

As we move into the hotter months, we would like to reassure our school community that we are proactive in monitoring temperature and humidity levels in accordance with our weather Guidelines. The wellbeing and safety of our students remain our highest priority.

Fortunately, our regular lunch playtimes are typically not impacted, as students are only on the oval or in outdoor areas for short periods, typically no more than 20 minutes. This ensures they can still enjoy their playtime while minimising exposure to the heat.

When it comes to extracurricular activities, we will carefully evaluate conditions on a case-by-case basis. Decisions will always be made with the safety and comfort of students in mind.

Bag Keyrings

We have noticed that some students are bringing decorative keyrings to school to personalise their bags. While these items can be a fun way to identify students' bags, we would like to remind families that it is the responsibility of students to look after their belongings.

Teachers will not be monitoring or taking responsibility for these items if they are lost, misplaced, or stolen. We encourage you to consider the potential risks and to discuss with your child the importance of caring for their personal items if they choose to bring them to school.

Thank you for your understanding and support in this matter.

Preparing for the 2026 School Year

As we begin planning for the 2026 school year at St Francis, we ask families to email Samantha Suthers at samantha_suthers@rok.catholic.edu.au if there are specific considerations you feel should be taken into account during the class list allocation process. While we will carefully review any information provided, it is important to note that there are many factors involved in formulating class lists, and decisions are ultimately made by the classroom teachers, who are best placed to determine what is in the best interests of all students.

Requests for specific teachers will not be considered. Teacher placements for 2026 have not yet been decided, and as such, we cannot accommodate preferences for particular teachers.

The structure for next year will include composite classes, as it does in 2025. While we understand that some families may have concerns, we assure you that the Australian Curriculum is delivered effectively across all classes. Being in a composite class does not negatively affect a child’s learning or achievements. St Francis is fortunate to have experienced and dedicated teachers who are already meeting the individual needs of our students, and this commitment remains unchanged in composite classes.

We appreciate your understanding as we work through this process. If you have any pressing considerations to share, please do so by Friday, 14th November. Unfortunately, no requests can be accepted after this date.

Active Mornings - Kickstart on the Oval - Before School

As a change for Term 4, once students arrive at school after 8:10 am, they will make their way to the whole-school games on the oval with a member of the Leadership Team.

Starting next week, students from Prep to Year 6 will have the opportunity to participate in simple and engaging games such as Stuck in the Mud and Tag. For those who prefer a more relaxed start to the day, a quiet space will be available in the Outdoor Learning Area, offering a calming environment to enjoy the morning view. Additionally, students can join in dancing to music on the grassed area outside the sports shed.

Please note that there will be no supervision in the undercover area during this time. Parents are warmly invited to come down, join in the games, and share in the fun.

This initiative reflects our understanding that every child is unique, and a balanced morning routine can help meet their diverse needs. Whether it’s through movement, social play, or quiet time, we aim to nurture the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of our students, allowing them to grow as confident, compassionate, and engaged learners.

Thank you for your ongoing support as we implement this whole-child approach to morning routines

Term 4 Specialist Lessons

Digital Technologies Lessons- Tuesdays

Students from Years Prep to Year 2 are enjoying Digital Technologies Lessons, learning how data is represented and and organised.

Physical Education Lessons- Tuesdays

Students from Prep to Year 6 are thriving in their Physical Education lessons. Students are to wear their sports shirts. Hats and water bottles are essential. This month, we are learning to play Futsal. With all the keen soccer players, this undercovered area game, featuring smaller soccer goals and 5-a-side, helps develop teamwork, communication, and agility.

Years 3-6 also participate in a range of sports every Friday afternoon, rotating through touch football, t-ball and baseball, and indoor hockey.

Performing Arts Lessons- Thursdays

Students from Years 3 to 6 are enjoying Performing Arts lessons with Mrs Sharyn Dicker.

Visual Arts Lessons- Thursdays

Students from Years Prep to 2 are enjoying Visual Arts lessons with Mrs Melissa Hartsorn. Discovering how the Elements of Art are included makes our artwork more effective. This week, students are learning about the element of colour, including primary colours on the colour wheel.

Private Music Tutor Offerings

Instrumental with Miss Erin- Tuesdays

If you would like any information regarding our instrumental music or piano lessons, please contact Mrs Meredith Grove.

Piano with Liping- Tuesdays to Fridays

If you would like any information regarding our piano lessons, please contact Mrs Meredith Grove.

Guitar with Jed - Wednesdays

If you would like any information regarding our guitar lessons, please contact Mrs Kylie Linforth.

Upcoming Term 4 Events at St Francis

Swimming Carnival - 14/11/25

The Annual Swimming Carnival will be held at the Gladstone Aquatic Centre. All students participate in this carnival, travelling by bus to Gladstone. Please complete the relevant form below by Sunday, 19th October. Any questions, please email kylie_linforth@rok.catholic.edu.au

This Google Form is for parents in Years 3-6.

This Google Form is for Prep to Year 2 parents.

Celebration Assembly - 19/11/25 8.30 am until 10.30 am

Parents and friends are warmly invited to join us as we give thanks for the blessings, growth, and achievements of our students in 2025.

Carols Evening - 2/12/25 - 5:30 pm Start

Parents and friends are welcome to join us on this special occasion as we look forward to Christmas and the birth of Jesus. Carols take place in our school hall and undercovered area, with families invited to bring a blanket and picnic dinner to enjoy before the carols start.

Yr 6 Graduation Liturgy and Dinner - 3/12/25 at 5.30 pm

A night of special celebrations for our graduating Year 6 class. All are welcome to the liturgy at St. Peter Chanel Church, commencing at 5.30 pm. Parents are then invited to join with their graduating child at a meal at the Tannum Sands Hotel Motel.  Ticket allocation: Two family members per student. More information will come home soon.

Mass of Advent and Thanksgiving - 5/12/25, 9am until 10am

Parents and friends are most welcome to join students from Prep - Year 6 for a Mass of Advent and Thanksgiving. This will be held in the school hall.

Playgroup with Chloe!

St Francis Catholic Primary Playgroup

When - Every Thursday from 8.45am to 10.15am

Why - A wonderful opportunity for parents to connect and for children to play, learn, and grow together.

Who - Everyone is welcome!

A huge thank you to one of our amazing parent, Chloe, who will be leading this exciting initiative. She is looking forward to meeting you and making this a fun and welcoming space for all.

Come along and join the fun - we can't wait to see you there!

2026 Prep Enrolments

Prep 2026 Enrolments – First Round Offers Issued!

The first round of offers for Prep 2026 has been issued! Don’t miss the opportunity to secure a place for your child in our welcoming and nurturing school community.

Contact us today on 49 948 320 or enrol online via:

https://www.stfrancis.qld.edu.au/blank-8

Tuckshop News

Please see below the Tuckshop Roster Term 4. Our tuckshop relies on volunteers to operate, therefore, your help is very much essential and valued! Our 6A Class will be responsible for volunteering in the Tuckshop in Week 4.

If anyone is able to assist on any of these dates, please let the school office know on (07) 49 948 320 or email  infosfts@rok.catholic.edu.au

Parents & Friends Association

Christmas Fundraiser Raffle

The P&F will be holding a Christmas fundraising raffle at the upcoming Carols Evening on Tuesday 2nd December. If any of our wonderful school community would like to support the fundraising efforts by donating prizes, please let us know by emailing SFTS_PandFSecretary@rok.catholic.edu.au. 

P&F Meeting Minutes

Please see below link to minutes from P&F meeting that was held last week on 16/10/25.

Stay In Contact

The P&F Committee are always happy to hear from you. We can be contacted via email SFTS_PandFSecretary@rok.catholic.edu.au or by messaging the St Francis Tannum Sands P&F Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573112566338

School Uniforms

St Francis Uniform Shop

The uniform will be CLOSED for the next 2 weeks, and will reopen on Tuesday 11th November from 8:30am -10:30am

Please place your uniform order online (link below) or through Parent Orbit App,  and your items will be delivered to the school office on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the closure period. 

https://www.wearitto.com.au/schools/st-francis-catholic-primary-school-ts 

Sorry for any inconvenience.

Second Hand Pre Loved Uniforms

Community News

Reef Guardian School

St Francis Catholic Primary School is proud to be a Reef Guardian School – where our students take meaningful action that directly supports Reef protection and resilience. 🪸

And now, we’re joining the Reef Authority in support of the Lifetime of Greatness campaign – alongside the hundreds of thousands of students, teachers and families also part of the Reef Guardian School program – to back the Reef’s nomination for the United Nations Champions of the Earth Lifetime Achievement Award.🎖️

The campaign is part of the Lifetime of Greatness Project, developed by Tourism Tropical North Queensland in collaboration with the Reef Authority, Reef Guardian Councils, Traditional Owners, Master Reef Guides, and the tourism industry. Already, it has reached over five billion people and attracted more than 1.3 million supporters worldwide! 😮

If successful, the Reef would become the first living entity (and non-human!) recipient of the highest environmental honour awarded by the United Nations Environment Programme – this would be history made! 🥳

Join us in backing a lifetime of greatness: https://alifetimeofgreatness.com/#supporter

Thank you for your support on this important action!

The Reef Guardian School team.

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority
Wulgurukaba Country | 235 Stanley Street, Townsville | PO Box 1379 Townsville QLD 4810

www.reefed.edu.au | www.gbrmpa.gov.au  

Running for Natalia and for Autism Awareness. Help us reach our goal

Why we’re running for Autism 🧡#TeamNatalia🧡

Natalia's parent's Hela & Daniel are running this October for their daughter Natalia, who lives with Autism, ADHD, and a learning disability. Since she was just one, our family has been in and out of specialist appointments, facing daily challenges while trying to give her the support she needs. Natalia has a heart of gold, but she truly struggles with the realities of the world around her.

This run is our way of raising awareness and creating more support not just for Natalia, but for all Autistic Australians.

Why we're running 70km this October? Because 70% of Autistic people face mental health challenges.
We're running towards a more inclusive world where Autistic Australians have the opportunity to thrive.
Please donate now and show your support to our fundraiser and help provide early diagnosis, autism-specific education, and better mental health services—so that more Autistic people can access the support they need to realise their different brilliant®
You’ll also give us the motivation we need to log our kilometres as we go the distance throughout October.

To show your support, Please donate through the below link.

Link to Natalia's Fundraising page :  https://www.runforautism.org.au/st/6883/s

Thanks so much,

Hela and Daniel Neves

The Non-State Schools Transport Assistance Scheme (NSSTAS) 

The Non-State Schools Transport Assistance Scheme (NSSTAS) provides financial assistance for families transporting students to non-state schools in Queensland. The Scheme has two programs:

• Bus Fare Assistance: assisting families who pay more than the weekly threshold in bus or ferry fares.
• Students with Disability: supporting students with a disability who have demonstrably different transport needs from other students of the same age. 

Applications for Semester 2 2025 opened on 1 October. To learn more about the Scheme, including eligibility for both programs, visit https://www.schooltransport.com.au. NSSTAS is a joint initiative of QCEC and Independent Schools Queensland, and is funded by the Queensland Government.

Parent Workshop - Supporting Your Student with Reading

Gladstone's Junior Cricket Season

Gladstone Council News

Peer CARE Companion in Community - Gladstone

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS

Wellways Carer Gateway Gladstone

The Carer Gateway is a free national service that provides practical advice, support, and resources for people who look after a family member or friend. Whether you’re caring for an older person, someone with disability, a mental health condition, or a chronic illness—support is available for you.
🌟Services include:

• Free counselling and peer support groups
• Respite care to give you a break
• Practical help with navigating services and government supports
• Workshops, skills training, and tailored resources

📍 Visit Your Local Carer HubWe now have a Carer Hub conveniently located at 1 Buller Street, open Monday to Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
👉Here, you can:

• Register with the Carer Gateway
• Speak directly with friendly staff who understand the challenges of being a carer
• Access personalised advice and information
• Connect with other carers in a supportive environment

Strong Communities - Adults Grief Program

Boyne Island Library

Roseberry Qld Dignity Hub - Volunteer Drive

The Smith Family - Saver Plus – Helping Families Access Support

This is a great opportunity to remind families about Saver Plus and the $500 they can receive to support their child’s education costs. The program not only provides matched savings but also equips families with budgeting skills that help ensure children are prepared for school with the resources they need—contributing to long-term financial wellbeing.

As families move through different school stages, such as transitioning from Year 6 to high school, now is an ideal time for families with students in Year 5 to join Saver Plus and use the matched funds to help with upcoming education expenses when they commence Year 7 in 2027.

Below , you’ll find:

• The new Referral Form
• A social media short video explainer 

Families can still enquire directly by calling our free number 1300 610 355, or by clicking the ‘Enquire Now’ button on The Smith Family website under the Saver Plus financial literacy program.