Term 3 Week 8

A Message from Leadership

A Week of Partnerships and Growth

This week, we were delighted to host our Parent/Teacher Interviews, and it was lovely to see so many parents walking down 'School Street' to engage in meaningful conversations about their children’s progress and achievements. Research consistently highlights the importance of strong parent-teacher partnerships in enhancing student outcomes. The Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) emphasises that when parents and teachers work collaboratively, it creates a supportive environment that fosters not only academic success but also social and emotional development. These interviews are the foundation of this partnership, allowing us to share insights, celebrate achievements, and set goals together for the holistic development of every child.

In addition to our focus on parent partnerships, our teachers and Education Support Officers participated in a professional learning day centred on Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Curriculum Mapping. UDL is an internationally recognised framework that promotes inclusive teaching practices by offering flexible pathways for all students to access, engage with, and demonstrate their learning. By incorporating this approach into our curriculum, we ensure that every child (regardless of their learning needs or abilities) has the opportunity to succeed.

Curriculum mapping, on the other hand, enables our staff to align teaching practices with the Australian Curriculum and Catholic Education values, ensuring consistency, coverage, and coherence across the curriculum. This process also ensures that our lessons are purposeful, engaging, and cater to the diverse needs and interests of our students.

We are fortunate at St Francis to have a team of passionate and highly skilled educators who are deeply committed to their ongoing professional growth. In an ever-changing educational landscape, they consistently strive to adopt new practices and refine their teaching to ensure that students receive the best possible education. Their dedication reflects the Gospel value of service, as they work tirelessly to nurture each child’s mind, heart, and spirit.

Thank you for your continued partnership and trust in our school. We look forward to continuing to work alongside you to guide our students on their learning journey.

Mrs Samantha Suthers- Principal

Feast Day Celebrations - Friday 19 September

Gullarn ngheeree - Welcome to this beautiful place,

St Francis of Assisi beautifully lived out praise for God’s creation, seeing all living things as reflections of God’s love and creativity. He recognised the interconnectedness of all creatures and celebrated the natural world as a gift, urging others to care for the environment as an act of faith and gratitude.

This year marks 800 years since St Francis wrote the Canticle of the Creatures, a hymn of thanksgiving that praises God through elements of creation—Brother Sun, Sister Moon, Brother Wind, and Sister Water. St Francis composed this prayer late in his life, while enduring significant suffering, yet it radiates joy and trust in God. The Canticle reminds us to embrace humility and gratitude, acknowledging the sacredness of all life. As we reflect on this prayer’s anniversary, may we be inspired to protect and cherish God’s creation, following St Francis’ example of love and reverence for the environment.

We look forward to families joining us for our feast day celebrations on Friday 19 September at Canoe Point.  To celebrate 20 years of our school, the Lions Club is providing us with a sausage sizzle following mass for a cost of $2.50 per sausage. Please  place family orders via Flexischools by Friday 12 September so preparations can occur.

PAX et bonum,

Mrs Meredith Grove- APRE

Reflection- Sr Kym Harris

Our desire for a Father

My Mum taught as a catechist in the State primary school of the small town in which we lived. She loved the trusting looks she saw in the faces of the young children when she spoke of God as Father. It spoke to something deep within them. But it didn’t necessarily come from their personal experience. It was a small town and she knew some of these children came from troubled families. She understood the disconnect between their desire for a father and the reality of their lives. She knew it herself as her mother left her father before she was born and she only met him when she was 21 years old. It did not go well. But Mum always hungered for what she had missed and it took her years to confidently approach God as Father. That’s another story.

What she knew herself and sensed in these children is that we are made to be loved and formed by a father. Most of us experience this in the fathers we have. As children, we can idolise our fathers. As we grow older, we see their flaws, and as we age and discover our own flaws, we recognise that love is complex and people can love and fail at the same time…because we can do that too. But we still have the hunger to be loved by the ‘perfect’ Father.

That is what God is to us. This hunger is something we need to sit with, listen to and allow God to love us as we most deeply want and need to be loved. It is a long process. But we can enter into it at any moment. We need to let go and rest in the love of God- our true Father.

Loving Father, let me accept all the love and care you desire for me. Let me rest in your love. I ask this in the name of Jesus, your Son and our brother.

Sr Kym Harris osb

Star of the Sea Parish Bulletin

Affirmation Awards Week 8

Monday 8th September

Child Protection Week

At St Francis Catholic Primary School, we are deeply committed to the safety and wellbeing of every child, ensuring they feel valued, respected, and protected. As we mark Child Protection Week, we reflect on our shared responsibility to create a safe and supportive environment where all students can thrive. Guided by our Catholic values, we work together as a community -teachers, parents, and students- to foster open communication and promote respectful relationships. 

Accreditation of Catholic Schools in Queensland

Did you know that all Catholic schools, along with other non-state schools in Queensland, are required to be accredited by the Non-State Schools Accreditation Board (NSSAB)? Accreditation ensures schools meet essential standards, such as providing a safe learning environment and delivering a quality education. This process guarantees that all students, regardless of their school’s values or affiliations, receive a consistent level of education and care. Accreditation is also crucial for schools to qualify for government funding, ensuring resources are directed efficiently to support students and the operation of schools. The NSSAB, as an independent statutory body, oversees the accreditation process across Queensland’s diverse non-state schools, ensuring fair and unbiased regulation. This commitment to consistency, safety, and quality reflects the shared dedication of Catholic schools to the holistic development of every student.

Today, we warmly welcome the auditors to St Francis as we undertake this important accreditation process. Their visit helps ensure that we continue to meet these high standards and provide the best possible learning environment for all students.

Wednesday 10th & Thursday 11th September

Student Protection Conference

This week, our Student Protection Officers will travel to Rockhampton to participate in the Student Protection Conference. This is an important opportunity for our team to stay up to date with the latest developments in student protection, ensuring we continue to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of your children.

The staff members attending will be:

• Mrs Samantha Suthers (Principal)
• Mrs Meredith Grove (APRE)
• Miss Ebony Johnson-Torr (OSHC Coordinator)
• Mrs Deb Whitfield (Prep Teacher)
• Mrs Leann Hansen (Year 1/2 Teacher)
• Mrs Melissa Davey (School Counsellor)

During Mrs Suthers' absence, Mrs Kylie Linforth (APC) will be acting as Principal.

We are fortunate to have such a dedicated and committed team working together to uphold the highest standards of student safety and care.

Friday 12th September

"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.

Prep to Year 2 Dance Showcase

All welcome to come along and watch the dance the Preps to Year 2  have been learning in Performing Arts.

River Time - Year 6

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.

Feast Day Tuckshop Orders Close

We look forward to families joining us for our feast day celebrations on Friday 19 September at Canoe Point.  To celebrate 20 years of our school, the Lions Club is providing us with a sausage sizzle following mass for a cost of $2.50 per sausage. Please  place family orders via Flexi Schools by Friday 12 September so preparations can occur.

Mobile Phone & Wearable Technology Guidelines - Consultation Period Open

Over the past several weeks, the St Francis Catholic Primary School Board has been deeply engaged in discussions regarding the use of mobile phones and wearable technologies within our school. At the heart of these conversations was a shared commitment to ensuring that teaching and learning remain the central focus of our classrooms, with minimal distractions for our students.

After much thoughtful deliberation, we are pleased to share with you the draft Mobile Phone and Wearable Technologies Guidelines. These guidelines have been designed with the best interests of our students in mind, striving to create an environment where they can flourish spiritually, academically, and socially. The guidelines aim to foster a culture of mindfulness, balance, and consideration for others, reflecting our Catholic values and the mission of our school. The document below outlines:

• Clear expectations for the storage and use of mobile phones and wearable devices during school hours.
• The responsibilities of students, staff, and parents in supporting a positive learning environment.
• The steps we will take to ensure compliance and maintain a respectful and focused school community.

We believe that these guidelines will contribute to a harmonious school environment where students can engage deeply in their studies, build meaningful friendships, and develop their God-given potential.

As valued members of our school community, we warmly invite your consultation and feedback on these guidelines. Your input is important to us as we work together to ensure the best outcomes for all our students.

Please take the time to review the attached document and share your thoughts by next Friday, 12th September. Feedback can be submitted via email to info@sftsrok.catholic.edu.au or by visiting the school office to provide written comments.

Following this consultation period, we aim to finalise and implement these guidelines beginning Term 4. We trust that this timeline will provide sufficient opportunity for feedback, preparation, and communication of the expectations with our students before they take effect.

We thank you in advance for your engagement and support in this process. Together, we can continue to nurture a school environment where every child feels supported, respected, and encouraged to thrive.

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 Jed - Wednesdays

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

Upcoming Events at St Francis

Feast 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

Tuesday 9th September is Nacho Day!! Please place orders via Flexi Schools by 7.30am Tuesday.

Our School Tuckshop is needing volunteers for the following dates:

-        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 5A & 4/5B Classes will be responsible for volunteering in the Tuckshop in Week 9.

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

A big thank you to all who supported the Father's Day Gift Stall this week. The kids had a great time choosing gifts for the special father figures in their lives, and we hope that their gift brings a smile to their faces. 

Also, a massive thank you to all the parents that helped set up, run the stall and pack up afterwards, as well as the teachers and staff that helped to make it happen. We love to see our St Francis parent and staff community coming together to make these memories for our kids. 

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

Gladstone Council - Sewer Pump Station Renewal & Upgrade

Information Evening - Protect Your Kids Online

Strong Communities Family Fun Day

Young Engineers workshops in Gladstone

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

Strong Communities - Adults Grief Program