Term 3 Week 7

A Message from Leadership

The Importance of Social Interactions and Friendships

Friendships are one of the most valuable parts of childhood. They teach children how to navigate relationships, work through challenges, and develop key social-emotional skills. However, it's important to remember that no friendship is perfect, and conflict is a natural part of every relationship. Teaching children how to manage these conflicts in healthy ways can make a profound difference in their social lives-both in real life and online.

Embracing Conflict: A Key Friendship Skill

One of the biggest lessons we can teach children is that conflict is not something to fear; it's an opportunity to grow and strengthen their relationships. Everyday disagreements between friends are normal conflicts that can be resolved with open communication and kindness. Unfortunately, children often avoid conflict altogether, which can lead to unhealthy behaviours. For example, instead of addressing a problem directly, they might send a passive-aggressive text message, exclude someone from a social media post, or engage in gossip.

By teaching children that conflict can be resolved face-to-face, we empower them to address challenges constructively and to build stronger, more respectful friendships. This reflects the Catholic value of reconciliation, which calls us to repair relationships in a spirit of love and understanding.

Parents and educators can play a role by modelling conflict resolution and role-playing common scenarios with children. For example, you can practise how a child might approach a friend to resolve a disagreement, using phrases like, "I feel hurt when you exclude me. Can we talk about it?"

Navigating Online Friendships

The digital world has added a new layer of complexity to children's social interactions. Non-verbal cues, such as body language and tone of voice, are absent in online communication. This can lead to misunderstandings and hurt feelings. For example, a simple phrase like "Shut up!" might be said playfully in person but misinterpreted as rude or hurtful in a text message.

We also see relational aggression—such as exclusion, gossip, or 'The Silent Treatment'—play out on social media. Conflict that starts online often makes its way to the playground, and vice versa. Helping children recognise these behaviours and address them appropriately is crucial.

To resolve friendship issues online, children should avoid engaging in lengthy text-based arguments. Instead, they can send a simple message like, "I really care about our friendship. Let’s chat in person!" If their friend isn’t ready, they can offer patience and understanding, saying, "No worries! Let me know when you’re ready to chat." A heart emoji or a playful symbol can help lighten the mood and show they value the friendship.

When it comes to Mean-on-Purpose behaviour—intentional acts meant to hurt someone- children should be encouraged to respond with a strong, clear statement like, "Not cool!" They should then walk away (or leave the online conversation) and report the behaviour to a trusted adult. Screenshots can also be taken as evidence if needed.

The Role of Bystanders

Bystanders play a critical role in friendship dynamics, whether in real life or online. If they witness a friendship issue, they can avoid being "caught in the sandwich" by refusing to take sides and instead changing the subject. For example, if someone tries to gossip through a text message, they can respond, "I’m not getting in the middle. Anyways, have you heard the new Taylor Swift song?"

For Mean-on-Purpose behaviour, bystanders are encouraged to stand up for the victim in a respectful and supportive way. By modelling kindness and respect, they can help create a culture where antisocial behaviours are less likely to thrive.

Parents and educators can teach children that standing up for others is a way to live out Jesus' call to love our neighbour and to care for the vulnerable. Encouraging children to report harmful behaviour to a trusted adult is another way to ensure everyone's safety and wellbeing.

Building a Kinder, More Respectful Culture

Friendships today are undoubtedly more complex due to the digital world. However, one thing remains unchanged: children want to feel connected, liked, and respected. By teaching them how to manage conflict, both in real life and online, we are equipping them with skills that will last a lifetime. These skills not only strengthen their friendships but also build a culture of kindness and respect.

When children become confident conflict-resolvers, they transform into quick-thinking, empathetic individuals who can maintain healthy relationships. These children grow into adults who bring those same values into the world, creating a ripple effect of positivity and understanding.

Let us continue to nurture these vital skills in our children, helping them to grow into compassionate, respectful individuals who thrive in their friendships and beyond. As Catholic educators and parents, we have the privilege of forming children who will one day contribute to a more just and loving world.

For further information and resources to help your child navigate friendships, visit the URSTRONG Parent Resource Page. This page provides resources to equip parents with tools and strategies to guide children in building meaningful and lasting friendships. Together, we can nurture positive relationships that embody the values of kindness and respect.

Mrs Samantha Suthers- Principal

Spring - The Season Of Creation

Gullarn ngheeree – Welcome to this beautiful place, 

This time of year, every year, brings a sense of ‘almost there!’; I am definitely not a ‘Winter’ person, so each morning brings a smile to my face a little earlier as the sun peaks out to welcome my day.

Spring is a season that brings with it a vibrant sense of hope and renewal, reminding us of God’s boundless love and the promise of new beginnings. This week, as we send home the latest edition of Australian Catholics magazine, we are invited to reflect on how we can embody hope in our daily lives and within our community. The magazine includes thought-provoking articles highlighting ways we bring hope into the world, inspired by the teachings of the Catholic faith. In particular, we draw on the wisdom of Pope Leo XIII, who urged the Church to live out its missionary calling with courage, compassion, and a deep commitment to the common good. As the beauty of spring unfolds around us, let us take this opportunity to reflect on how we can be instruments of hope, spreading Christ’s light and love to all we encounter.

Music is a wonderful way to share joy and hope in our world.  Next Wednesday, we are delighted to welcome Andrew Chinn to our school. An Australian religious songwriter and singer, Andrew Chinn, will share his songs with our children. Andrew’s songs, such as “These Hands”, “Rainbow”, “An African Blessing” and “Rise Up!” are used in classrooms and liturgies around Australia, New Zealand, USA and Canada. Our day culminates in a whole school concert at 1.35 pm in our school hall.  Families are most welcome!

As a Catholic school community, we will gather at Canoe Point Parklands on the last day of Term 3 to celebrate the Feast Day of St Francis of Assisi, embracing the beauty of God’s creation around us. Of all of the events in our school calendar, our Feast Day celebration embraces the essence of our school's identity and charism, families are encouraged to join us if able. Our Feast Day coincides with the “Season of Creation”, which is celebrated from 1 September—the first day of Spring—through to 4 October, the official Feast of St Francis of Assisi. These coming weeks remind us of our sacred duty to care for the earth and all its creatures, as stewards of God’s creation.  

This year also marks a special milestone—800 years since St Francis wrote the “Canticle of the Creatures”. Inspired by his deep love and respect for God’s creation, St Francis’ canticle invites us to see the hand of God in everything around us: Brother Sun, Sister Moon, and even the humble flowers and insects that bring life to our world. 

May the rhythm of Spring inspire us all to protect and celebrate the beauty of God’s creation in our daily lives.  

PAX et bonum – Peace and all goodness, 
Meredith Grove
(APRE)

Reflection- Sr Kym Harris

In Praise of Whistling

‘You can’t think bad thoughts while you whistle,’ said the Gippsland dairy farmer and his daughter, recalling this later, added, ‘Dad always went around the farm whistling.’ We had been talking about prayer at the time, and she realised that in a real way, whistling was her father’s way of praying through his day. He chose to do something that made him happy, whatever the challenges that his workday would bring.

I recalled this the other listening to a boy whistling as he cycled past. It was so cheerful. I also remembered it last Sunday when I lay soaking up the winter sun, reading and relaxing.. I see it in the morning, I walk along the beach at Yeppoon. All these people are enjoying the beauty. We can choose to do things that make us happy. Often, they are such small things, like whistling or enjoying the sun, that we can fail to appreciate what a big difference they can make. They make us happy within ourselves, they make us feel better towards other people (and stop the flow of bad thoughts), and they make us more open to God.

When we are in trouble, we turn to God out of our pain and need. In a real sense, then, we come as beggars before him. But when we ‘pray’ in those happy moments, (and the prayer can be little more than the quickest ‘thank you’ while we enjoy our happiness), we are being friends with God. We are taking pleasure in a loving gift from a friend…and that is what God, our truest friend, enjoys in us.

Loving God,
let me recognise the little things in life that give me joy and happiness.
Let me make time for them in my day,
and as I do, may I give thanks to you.
I ask this in Jesus’ name, confident that you will hear me.
Amen

Sr Kym Harris osb

Star of the Sea Parish Bulletin

Monday 1st September

Awards Assembly - 2.10pm

All are welcome to the fortnightly assembly. This will be our last assembly for Term 3 as the Year 5 and 6 children will be on camp in Week 10. 

Tuesday 2nd September

Parent Teacher Conversations

Parent Teacher Conversations will be held in your child's classroom this term and will be held between 3pm - 6pm.

Wednesday 3rd September

Andrew Chinn Workshops and Afternoon Concert

Andrew Chinn is a renowned musician whose songs for children form a large part of our masses and liturgical celebrations.

Andrew will visit St Francis and conduct music workshops with our students.

A music showcase occurs in the last session of the day, commencing at 1.35 pm in the school hall, with parents and friends most welcome to join us!

Thursday 4th September

Father's Day Gift Stall

Due to the relocation of OSHC to the hall, the Father's Day Gift Stall will be set up in the Media Room near the Library. 

Class Schedule for the Father's Day Stall:

8.30am - 9am           -    1A & 4A

9am - 9.30am           -    1/2B & 3A

9.30am - 10am         -    3B & 5A

10am - 10.30am       -     Prep A & 6A

11.15am - 11.45am   -      Prep B, 2A & 4/5B

If you are available to help with set up on Wednesday, the 3^rd of September, or assist students with their gift shopping on the day of the stall, the P&F would love to hear from you.

River Time - Year 5

During the last few weeks of Term 3, we bring our focus to our Franciscan traditions, culminating in our Feast Day celebration at Canoe Point Parklands on Friday 19 September.  In the coming weeks, our students are invited into this Season of Creation through River-Time.

Parent Teacher Conversations

Parent Teacher Conversations will be held in your child's classroom this term and will be held between 3pm - 6pm.

Tuckshop

Due to Friday 5th September being a Pupil Free Day, Tuckshop will be on Thursday 4th September.

Orders to be placed through Flexischools by Thursday 7.30am.

Friday 5th September

Pupil Free Day

OSHC - Friday 5th September

BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL
Want to Enrol?
WEBSITE: //www.stfrancis.qld.edu.au/
EMAIL: SFTS_OSHC@rok.catholic.edu.au
CONTACT NUMBERS OSHC MOBILE: 0400 701 721

Term 3 Specialist Lessons

Digital Technologies Lessons- Tuesdays

Students from Years 3 to 6 are enjoying Digital Technologies Lessons with Mrs Meredith Grove. This term, they have been learning about Cybersafety and digital phot. 

Physical Education Lessons- Tuesdays

Students from Prep to Year 6 are thriving in their Physical Education lessons with Mrs Kylie Linforth. This term, they’ve had the opportunity to work with a variety of visiting specialists. Most recently, they’ve been developing their skills in OzTag. Students are to wear their sports shirts. Hats and water bottles are essential.

Years 3-6 also participate in a range of sports every Friday afternoon, including pickle ball, handball, soccer and netball. 

Performing Arts Lessons- Thursdays

Students from Prep to Year 2 are enjoying Performing Arts lessons with Mrs Sharyn Dicker, as they prepare for their exciting showcase.

Visual Arts Lessons- Thursdays

Students from Years 3 to 5 are enjoying Visual Arts lessons with Mrs Mel Hartsorn, with the Year 6 students completing two Project Art days across the Term. We can't wait to see what they create. 

Term 3 Lunch Clubs

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 Wayne - Wednesdays

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

Upcoming Events at St Francis

"Stay Bright, Stay Safe" - Recognition of Child Protection Week

Friday, 12th September, students are encouraged to wear a  fluoro accessory in recognition of Child Protection Week and to promote the message of "Stay Bright, Stay Safe."

Please note: This is not a full free dress day. Students should wear their school uniform as usual, but can add something bright and fluorescent to show their support.

Fest Day Celebrations

Mark the date on your calendar and join us if you are able!  We will begin our celebrations with Mass, followed by a a sausage sizzle and time on the beach.  More details in next week's newsletter!

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 parents, 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://enrol.sftsrok.catholic.edu.au/primary-school-enrolment/start

Tuckshop News

Due to Friday 5th September being a Pupil Free Day, Tuckshop will be on Thursday 4th September instead.

Our School Tuckshop is needing volunteers for the following dates:

-        Thursday 4th September

-        Friday 12th September

-        Friday 19th September

If anyone is able to assist on any of these dates, please let the school office know on (07) 49 733 600 or email  infosfts@rok.catholic.edu.au

Please see below the Tuckshop Roster for the rest of Term 3. 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 8.

Due to rising operational and supply costs, the St Francis Tuckshop has begun to implement small price increases on some items. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

OSHC

St Francis OSHC School Holidays Vacation Care Program

BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL
Want to Enrol?
WEBSITE: //www.stfrancis.qld.edu.au/
EMAIL: SFTS_OSHC@rok.catholic.edu.au
CONTACT NUMBERS OSHC MOBILE: 0400 701 721

Parents & Friends Association

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

Did you know that Wearitto comes to St Francis every Tuesday?

The shop is open 8:30am -10:30am in Green Pod the room beside the Hub.

Please sign in through the QR code in the office or on the uniform shop door. When prompted for organisation please type 'visitor'.

Alternatively, you can order online and items can be picked up from the office in the afternoon of the next Tuesday after the order is placed:

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

Second Hand Pre Loved Uniforms

Community News

Book launch - Teacher Wellbeing Transformed

Information Evening - Protect Your Kids Online

Strong Communities Family Fun Day

Discount Microchipping Day

Date: Thursday 2 October 2025 

Time: 9am to 5.45pm 

Location: Gladstone Regional Council Pound Facility, 17 Albert Street, Callemondah.

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL (07) 4970 0700. No walk-ins accepted. 

Further information here https://www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/microchipping-day  

Goals Football school holiday clinics

🐦 Early bird discount is available for the first to book, enter code: EARLYBIRD at checkout  
Links for booking below: 
💚 https://www.trybooking.com/DEZMX
🧡 https://www.trybooking.com/DEZOW
❤️ https://www.trybooking.com/DEZRS

Play On Sports Vouchers

If you’re a Queensland parent, carer or guardian, you can apply for a voucher of up to $200 for your child to use for sporting memberships, registration or participation fees with a registered activity provider. Key dates

• 4 August 2025:  Round 1 opens for parents, carers or guardians to apply for vouchers
• 17 Dec 2025 5 PM: applications close (or earlier if fully allocated)

https://www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/playon?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22863534860&gbraid=0AAAAA92sDPHAQKrn44EQE1fdG0RmPl5c8&gclid=Cj0KCQjwzaXFBhDlARIsAFPv-u8Wcbmqj5dX880VIpT8Ui3cgER6KpaUJjhxbLcKVrtNP27LoIRYVNQaAskbEALw_wcB

Gladstone's Junior Cricket Season

St Mark's Anglican Bargain Shop

Sharks Volley Ball Camp