Dear Families,

On Sunday, we celebrated Pentecost, the day the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles, filling them with divine power and marking the birth of the Church.

Pentecost, celebrated 50 days after Easter, reminds us of the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives and the unity it brings to believers everywhere. Let’s take this time to reflect on the gifts of the Spirit and how we can use them to spread love, peace, and kindness in our world. 

“Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting.” – Acts 2:2

God of all, you sent your Spirit to be with the disciples, filling them with joy, peace and courage. May we also be filled with your Spirit, be brave and share your peace in our world. Amen.

May the Holy Spirit guide you, inspire you, and fill your hearts with joy.

Lord, as we prepare for the coming of a new term make us ready, attentive and available to hear you. Thank You for the gift of being able to rise each day with the assurance that You walk through it with us. Thank You for the gifts of creativity and uniqueness, and the energy to put them to good use.

Amen

Dear Families,

Welcome back to Term 2. I sincerely hope you had some quality time with family and friends, and took the  chance to recharge your mind and body ready for another great term of learning & wonder. 

At the beginning of the school holidays, our Christian faith celebrated Easter.  Easter celebrates the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. It is through life, death and resurrection that believers are given the hope of life after death, eternal life. The resurrection of Jesus provides hope for all believers that life as we know it will be changed, not ended, when we die. 

As a faith and learning community, we will continue to explore the stories that recall the final days of Jesus’ earthly life. 

Dear Families,

Last Sunday it was so wonderful to see many of our families join our staff at our Mary Queen of Heaven Sunday Whole School Mass.  Celebrations such as this are so important for our faith development and to ensure our links to Parish are strong and faith filled.  Thank you to the many families who joined us for Mass.

During this season of Lent and with Holy Week approaching we welcome all of our families into our school during Parent Teacher Interviews to engage with and pray over our still life stations depicting the key events of Holy Week.  These have been put together by each class and are linked to important and reflective scripture.  Please visit the stations, we invite you to be called to prayer and reflections at each of the spaces.

This week, Dani and I are attending a Leadership Conference with VACPSP – Victorian Association of Catholic Primary School Principals.  We have been inspired by guest speakers covering contemporary and important topics such as Social Research around changes in education, Human Rights activists speaking on contemporary human rights issues and our call as educators to be informed, Cultural connectors and Indigenous Educators highlighting the importance of inclusive and diverse practice.  We feel both privileged and empowered to be taking the time to upskill ourselves in the crucial areas.

Parent involvement and parent partnerships are crucial to our school. We welcome and encourage involvement and feedback on any level. We like to remind families of our school values of Respect, Courage, Love and Humility. Please read over the Parent Code of Conduct  linked and be reminded of the types of interactions we encourage. Please pay particular attention to the section that covers how we manage student conflict. We never encourage or promote one parent approaching another about a school related matter, in fact in doing so is a breach of the policy. If you have an issue, please come and see a staff member to assist you.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/12NnQ3JRqWxE0wJRiiLjeM8UcWA26Lkh4/view?usp=sharing

Dear families,

As we enter our third week of Lent we focus on what we are called to do in this season of hope.  With renewed vigor, let us focus on on the three pillars of Lent: 

prayer (justice toward God) 

fasting (justice toward self) 

almsgiving (justice toward neighbours)

Loving God, 

Open our hearts and help us to find moments of stillness, that we might hear your voice. May we be eager to hear what you have to say to each of us through your written word and in the depths of our hearts. Help us to listen even when it is challenging and not what we want to hear. We ask this through Christ our Lord,

Amen

Dear Heavenly Father,

We lift our hearts in gratitude for the beginning of this new school year in our beloved Catholic primary school. We thank you for the opportunity to come together as a community of learners, educators, and families, bound by our values of  love, courage, humility and respect

Bless our students, Lord, as they embark on this journey of learning and growth. May their minds be open to the wonders of education, and may their hearts be receptive to the teachings of kindness, compassion, and understanding. Grant them the strength to face challenges, the courage to ask questions, and the perseverance to overcome obstacles.

We ask for your guidance and wisdom upon our dedicated teachers and staff. May they be inspired by the example of Mary Queen of Heaven, to instill in our children a love for truth and a thirst for knowledge. Help them to be compassionate mentors and nurturing guides, leading by both word and deed.

Bless the parents and guardians who entrust their children to our care. Grant them patience, wisdom, and the ability to nurture the faith within their homes. May they find joy in partnering with the school community to support their children’s education and spiritual development.

Heavenly Father, we place this school year into your hands. May it be filled with moments of joy, discovery, and growth. Bless our community with unity, respect, and a deep sense of purpose. May your light shine upon our school, guiding us in all that we do.

Mary Queen of Heaven, pray for us.

One of the hallmarks of the Christmas story is when the angels appear to the shepherds and proclaim, “Peace on earth,” in Luke 2:14. In week 2 of Advent as we light the second Advent candle we pray for Peace.  

God of all,

We pray for Peace in our homes, peace in our churches, and peace in our hearts, when the world all around us spins out-of-control. Help us to stay focused on You, this Advent season and always. Thank You for loving the whole world enough to send the greatest gift, Your Son, so that we might truly have a very merry Christmas.

Dear Families,

As we approach the end of our first year together, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every member of our incredible school community. The journey we have embarked upon has been filled with learning, growth, and the building of lasting connections.

First and foremost, I extend my deepest thanks to our students for their enthusiasm, curiosity, and dedication to their education. Your commitment to learning and embracing new challenges has truly set a positive tone for our entire community.  You are all amazing little people who will go on and make a difference in our world!

To our  parents community,  thank you for entrusting us with the education and well-being of your children. Your support, involvement, and collaboration have been invaluable, and we appreciate the partnership we have formed to nurture the growth and development of our students.  In our first year you have been patient and kind as we navigate our new spaces, systems and processes. 

A special appreciation goes out to our talented and devoted staff. Your hard work, creativity, and passion for education have laid the foundation for a positive and inspiring learning environment. Your dedication has not gone unnoticed, and it is the driving force behind the success of our school community.

To our volunteers and community partners, thank you for your generosity and commitment to enhancing the educational experience for our students. Your contributions have played a crucial role in creating a vibrant and supportive community.

In reflecting on this past year, I am truly touched by the patience, trust, and kindness that permeate every interaction within our school community. These qualities have formed the foundation of our shared journey, and I am excited about the potential for even greater accomplishments in the years to come.

As we wrap up this academic year, let us celebrate our achievements, both big and small, and look forward to the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. Together, we have established a positive culture and a community that is not only ready to grow but eager to flourish.

Thank you all for your unwavering commitment, and I am excited to continue our journey together.

Helping Hands Mission

Last week we had the privilege of taking our school leaders to Helping Hands Mission to deliver the goods donated by our school community.  The amazing abundance of Christmas treats was delivered by Grace, Charlene and Livi.  They spoke of our schools desire to bring peace and joy to the needy in our community and our schools desire to give during the Christmas season.  We are so proud of our school leaders and the effort our community went to in donating items.  From the bottom of our hearts we thank you.  Please know that your donations will certainly make a difference this Christmas.

Christmas Carols

Last Tuesday we celebrated the end of our school year with our Christmas Carols.  It was so delightful to see so many of our families attend the carols.  It was also beautiful to see many of our Prep 2024 families joining in the festivities.  Thank you to our children and staff who prepared so beautifully and presented in a wonderfully festive manner.

School Captains

Last week our senior students presented speeches to their teachers and peers to apply for School Captaincy for 2024.  All of our students presented with confidence and clarity, all showing a true reflection of what it means to be a leader.  Our two School Captains for 2024 were elected:

Ameila 

Amelia was elected by her peers for her gentle nature, her love of sports and the outdoors and her commitment to being a fair and just leader.

Neladi 

Neladi was elected by her peers for her  quiet confidence, her commitment to social justice, sustainability and her love and empathy.

We look forward to Amelia and Neladi bringing their leadership skills to our school community in 2024.

Classes for 2024

Yesterday your children got the opportunity to meet their new teachers and classmates for 2024. We  want to reiterate that the teachers spend many, many hours going over the class groupings. Teachers consider the children’s social and emotional needs, learning needs, and relationships with other children and staff.

At these times we must trust that each teacher and the leadership team, know and care for your child. They have worked tirelessly on these class groupings to ensure each child will flourish in 2024.

As parents, you play a very important role in how your child views the changes in 2024.

A positive parent will reassure that any new change will be a blessing – an opportunity to foster new relationships and learn from a teacher who will support and care for them. These parents will find that their child develops resilience – an essential life skill for adult life.

As a parent, you have a choice – do I speak glowingly of the changes that my child faces, or will I model disappointment and anguish with my child? 

We are excited about what 2024  will bring for our school, community, and especially the children in our care. 

Farewell and Good Luck

This year we are farewelling three staff members.  

Josh our amazing ½ Co educator and intervention teacher.  Josh has been a calm and gentle influence on our little learners.  He is born to teach!  We wish Josh every success next year as he pursues his studies and his love for travel.

Bianca our Italian and Music teacher.  Bianca is moving on to further her career at another school.  Bianca has filled our corridors and the children’s hearts with her passion for music and her mother tongue- Italian.  We wish Bianca all the best in her career in education.

Lucy our kind and welcoming receptionist, will be moving on in a completely new role that suits her family’s needs.  Lucy has been a delightful addition to our admin team, and a beautiful ‘face’ to MQH.

We wish them every success in their future endeavors and know they will always carry a little piece of MQH in their hearts.

Testing Interviews 2024

Later today you will receive an invitation to book your child in for their testing time at the beginning of next year.  Prep children will be required to book in for 2 interview times – these will come as two separate bookings.  Year 1-6 will be required to book in for a time on Thursday 1st February only.

Learning Diversity

Mary Queen of Heaven prides itself in embracing all learners. In recent weeks, we have held our final Program Support Group Meetings for 2023 with families of students with diverse learning needs. It has been a joy to shine the light on progress towards personalised goals and celebrate individual success. We are grateful for the cooperative relationship between staff and families in ensuring student wellbeing is at the forefront of learning. We look forward to continued partnerships with families.

Wishing you all a happy, safe and holy Christmas break.  May you take time to find peace and joy in the festive season, spending quality time with family and friends.

We look forward to working with you and learning with you all again in 2024 and beyond.

Learning and Teaching 

As the academic year draws to a close, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the transformative journey we’ve embarked upon at Mary Queen of Heaven, in our formative year. This year, we embraced innovation in learning and teaching, focusing on effective pedagogies, a new inquiry model, data-driven practices, and child-centered learning spaces.

🚀 Innovative Pedagogy: A Catalyst for Growth

Our commitment to innovative pedagogy has been a driving force behind the educational experiences we’ve crafted for our students. Through dynamic teaching methods, we’ve sought to ignite a passion for learning, encouraging students to explore beyond traditional boundaries and develop skills that extend far beyond the classroom. We have prioritised teaching through small group focused teaching designed by educators using evidence.

🔍 New Inquiry Model: Empowering Curiosity through Discovery

The introduction of a new inquiry model, P-2 play-based and 3-6 project-based learning, has been incredibly successful. We’ve witnessed children become active participants in their education, asking questions, seeking answers, and developing a love for discovery. Our Educators will continue to work with Traces of Learning Consultants next year to deepen their understanding of this approach, ensuring that children have the opportunity to nurture critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in the real world.

📊 Data-Driven Practice: Shaping Tailored Experiences

Our journey this year was guided by the invaluable insights derived from data-driven practices. By analysing student data, we’ve been able to adapt our teaching strategies to meet individual needs, ensuring that every student receives the support and challenges necessary for their personal growth.

🌈 Child-Centered Learning Spaces: A Haven for Exploration

Our commitment to creating child-centered learning spaces has transformed our school environment into a haven for exploration and creativity. These spaces have not only provided physical comfort but have also been instrumental in fostering a sense of ownership and engagement among our students.

🌟 Celebrating Achievements and Looking Ahead

As we celebrate the achievements of the past academic year, we express our gratitude to our dedicated educators, involved families, and, most importantly, our eager children. Together, we’ve laid the foundation for a future where innovation and child-centered learning will continue to be at the heart of our educational journey.

Thank you for being an integral part of the Mary Queen of Heaven learning community. Here’s to another year of growth, discovery, and limitless possibilities!

Please click on the link to view 2024 School fees for 2024.

Fees Mary Queen of Heaven 2024 (1)

If you hold a current Health Care card please read below.

2024 CSEF & MACS School Fees Concession

PACKS AVAILABLE FROM THE SCHOOL OFFICE.

2024 Camps, Sports and Excursions fund eligibility

Below are the criteria used to determine a student’s eligibility for the Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF).

Criteria 1 – Eligibility

To be eligible* for the fund, a mature minor of sixteen years of age or over, a parent or legal guardian of a student attending a registered Government or non-government Victorian primary or secondary school must:

• on the first day of Term one, or;
• on the first day of Term two.

1. a)Be an eligible beneficiary within the meaning of the State Concessions Act 2004, that is, be a holder of Veterans Affairs Gold Card or be an eligible Centrelink Health Care Card (HCC) or Pensioner Concession Card (PCC) holder, OR
2. b)Be a temporary foster parent, and;
3. c)Submit an application to the school by the due date.

* A special consideration eligibility category also exists. For more information, see: Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF): Eligibility | education.vic.gov.au

Mature minors or parents who receive a Carer Allowance on behalf of a child, or any other benefit or allowance not income tested by Centrelink, are not eligible for the CSEF unless they also comply with one of (a) or (b) above.

Criteria 2 – Be of school age and attend school in Victoria

School is compulsory for all Victorian children aged between six and seventeen years of age inclusive.

For the purposes of CSEF, students may be eligible for assistance if they attend a Victorian registered primary or secondary school. Typically, these students are aged between five and eighteen years inclusive.

CSEF is not payable to students attending pre-school, kindergarten, home schooling, or TAFE.

Eligibility Date

For concession card holders, CSEF eligibility will be subject to the parent/legal guardian’s concession card being successfully validated with Centrelink on 29 January 2024 and/or 15 April 2024.

Payment amounts

CSEF payment amount

The CSEF is an annual payment to the school to be used towards camps, sports and/or excursion expenses for the benefit of the eligible student.

• Primary school student rate: $150.00 per year.
• Secondary school student rate: $250.00 per year.

The CSEF is paid directly the school and will be allocated by the school towards camps, sports and/or excursion costs for your child.

Dear Families,

What is Remembrance day?

At 11am on the 11th day of the 11th month each year we remember the moment in 1918 when World War I came to an end. On Remembrance Day, we remember Australian men and women who have served in war and peacekeeping activities. Remembrance Day does not glorify war – it honours the memory of all those who laid down their lives for Australia. As a mark of respect to those who have served, we stop to observe one minute’s silence. This year will mark the 105th anniversary of the Armistice, which ended the First World War. One thing we can do for the people who fought for our country, is to continue the tradition of remembering them. 

Scripture A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 15:12-17) 

My command is this: 

Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. This is my command: Love each other. 

This Remembrance Day we particularly called into our hearts those suffering at the hands of war in the Middle East.  We were delighted to partner with Fawkner RSL in commemorating this special day with a laying of a wreath on behalf of Mary Queen of Heaven.  Thank you to Rachel and Pauline and our school leaders Grace, Charlene, Livi and Mia for attending the ceremony and representing our school.

Prep transition

This week we welcomed 62 new preps and their families to MQH for our first Prep Transition morning.  A beautiful morning filled with warm MQH welcomes.  Next year we grow from a school of 105 with 20 staff to a school of 175 with 30 staff.  Watching and being part of the growth and development of our school has been an absolute pleasure and privilege.  How lucky are our new prep families for choosing to join a school community with such unity, teamwork and collaboration.  We are all really living into our school values of love, courage, respect and humility.

Classes for 2024 and beyond

Our classes for 2024 are currently being developed.  Many factors are considered in developing classes such as academics, friendships, wellbeing factors, gender balances, etc.  A process like this requires trust from our families, we know your children well and their needs.  Please trust that we will make the best decisions to place your child in a class that best suits their needs.

As with all Catholic Primary schools, the way classes are organized is very much a numbers game.  I am often asked the  question about composite classes v straight grades.  My response is very much aligned with our philosophy to learning & teaching… we teach to meet the needs of our learners.  Our planning is data driven and our focused learning encounters are pitched to the needs of that group of learners.  Whether your child is in a composite class next year or a straight grade, please be assured that they will continue to be delivered a child centered, data driven curriculum.   

Our school class and staffing structure for next year will be:

Prep A Leanne Cribbin & Attamjit Kaur

Prep B Amy Hodges, Chantal Luvara & Mary Pronesti

Prep C Alysha McLean & Natalie Evangelidis

1/2 A Pauline Boyle, Gabbi Stickland & Diyana Mousa

1/2 B Molly Nihill & Belinda Ribera

1/2 C Tameka Robertson, Dana Millsteed & Jaye Hall

3/4  Jess Maitland-Smith & Dana Di Donato

4/5/6 Rachel Giuffreda & Chatelle Taylor

Leadership

Principal Renae Gentile

Deputy & Literacy Dani De Luca

Learning Diversity Loretta O’Dwyer

Maths/Wellbeing Sarah Brown

Religious Education Pauline Boyle

Specialist Educators

Steven Avis STEM

Cathy Lyons Visual Art

Felicity Valetini Physical Education

Joanne Capparelli LOTE (Italian)

Enhancement Program (Extension & Intervention)

Lisa Michielin

School Psychologist

Maria Suliaman

Speech Pathologist

TBA

Christmas Carols

On Tuesday 12th December, we are hosting our very first school Christmas Carols. School will conclude at the normal time of 3:15.  We encourage all families to be at school and seated near the performance area by 3:30pm when the Carols will begin.  We predict the Carols will go for approximately 30 minutes.    From  4-5pm the children will be in the care of families, and we encourage you all to mix and mingle for a Christmas get together.  Sausages, drinks and Zooper Doopers will be on sale as our final school fundraiser for the year.

Please wear your festive gear, bring picnic blankets, family and friends for a wonderful afternoon of caroling!

Christmas Appeal – Helping Hands

Christmas is a time for giving and what better way than to partner with one of the most generous organisations in our Community – Helping Hands Mission.  

Helping Hands Mission our local not-for-profit charity organisation, with five Op Shops across Melbourne’s north west suburbs. They rely on the sales in their stores to fund our Emergency and Material Programs. Helping Hands Mission accepts financial, material and food pantry donations.

This Christmas, our schools ‘Taking Action’ linked to our RE Units is to gather Christmas treats to give to the needy this Christmas.  Beginning this week we invite families, extended family, friends – the whole community to drop items into our school office.  On Thursday 7th December our school leaders will deliver our good to Helping Hands to be distributed out into the community.  Items we are seeking for donation:

Chocolates

Lollies

Candy Canes                                                                      

Biscuits

Gingerbread/Shortbread

Christmas Bon-Bons

Christmas Puddings

Custard

Lets all get behind this initiative and model to our children the real meaning of Christmas.

Sun Smart

November has blessed us with some pre Summer weather.  Please ensure your children are coming to school with sunscreen applied and with their school hats.  We have enacted our ‘No hat, no play’ rule to keep everyone safe.

Cyber Safety

We take the safety and well-being of our students seriously, and we want to ensure that all students at MQH are using technology appropriately.

We also remind all parents that the legal age for using any social media accounts is 13 Years of Age.  Using platforms prior to this can pose various child safety risks, including the potential for cyberbullying and child grooming.

We encourage you to take the following steps to address use of technology in your home:

– Discussions: Have an open and honest conversation with your child about their online use or accounts they may have.  Ensure they are not involved in the creation or have shared any personal information.  Check their devices regularly.

– Review Privacy Settings: Help your child review their privacy settings on platforms to ensure they are set to protect their personal information and restrict access to their profile.

– Education on Online Safety: Remind your child about the importance of online safety, including not sharing personal information with strangers and the potential risks associated

with social media.

– Monitor Online Activity: Continue to monitor your child’s online activity, interactions, and content they post to ensure their online experience remains safe.

We are committed to working together to ensure the safety and well-being of all our students. By taking these steps, we can collectively address concerns and help maintain a secure online

environment for your child.

Thank you for your cooperation and your commitment to your child’s safety. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us.

Learning and Teaching

Moderation for reporting

Our Educators have been working tirelessly to gather data and utilise various forms of data to inform the Semester 2 reports, which will be released later this term.  In order to ensure that children’s reports are an accurate reflection of their learning, educators use a variety of sources of evidence.  This is called ‘triangulation’. 

In education, the term “triangulation” often refers to a process of cross-referencing or using multiple sources of data to gain a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of a particular educational issue or outcome. When teachers moderate data for reporting purposes using triangulation, they are essentially combining various data sources to report on and assess student performance, instructional effectiveness, or other aspects of education. Here’s how this process works:

Multiple Data Sources: Teachers gather data from various sources. These sources can include formal assessments (tests), formative assessments (classroom observations), student work samples, and other information that provides insight into student learning and performance.

Data Comparison: The teacher compares and analyses the data from these multiple sources. They look for patterns, trends, and inconsistencies to develop a more holistic view of student progress.

Data Moderation: Data moderation, in this context, involves ensuring the data is accurate, reliable, and representative of the intended outcomes. Teachers might cross-check data to identify and address any errors or discrepancies.

Reporting: After analyzing and moderating the data, teachers use the information to create reports on student performance. These reports are shared with students and families, to provide a well-rounded view of student progress.

Instructional Adjustments: Teachers may use the insights gained from triangulated data to make adjustments to their teaching strategies. For example, they can identify areas where students are struggling and tailor their instruction to address these specific needs.

Evidence-Based Decision-Making: The process of triangulation helps ensure that decisions about student performance and instructional strategies are based on a well-rounded, evidence-based approach rather than relying solely on a single assessment or data source.

Triangulation is a valuable practice because it minimises the risk of making decisions based on incomplete or biased data. It provides a more comprehensive and accurate picture of the educational landscape, which is essential for effective teaching and reporting.

It’s worth noting that triangulation is not limited to individual teachers; school administrators and educational researchers also use this approach to assess and report on a wide range of educational outcomes, including school performance, curriculum effectiveness, and more.

Scholastic Book Club – orders close Nov 15

It’s nearly a wrap for 2023! Last Book Club for the year. Book Club Issue 8 is now open. It’s full of books to spark magic and joy in students so they read more for fun, including:

• Christmas and Holiday Gift Ideas
• Hot New Releases
• Over 350 Summer Reading Ideas
• Big Savings on Packs
• $3 Value Books, and much, much more!

Please remember that the school cannot accept cash. If you would like to order please do so online and complete payment with credit card.

Dear Families,

It is wonderful to be back at Mary Queen of Heaven after my recent visit to The Holy Land.  The experience was an enriching one for me, one of reflection and spiritual growth.  To be able to visit the places that are so familiar to us as Christians, having heard about them in Scripture for so many years is quite humbling.  My observations were ones of beauty, history and complexity.  Such a small place, yet the spiritual home of three significant religions.  A place where Christians, Jews and Muslims live, work and pray alongside one another.

Visiting the Church of the Holy       Touching a remnant of a post               Walk down Palm Sunday Road

Sepulcher: the tomb of Jesus         Jesus rested at on his journey

    to crucifixion

Since my return the complex landscape of Israel and Palestine has changed considerably.  I ask you to pray for all in the Middle East and for peace in the world.  For the Israeli and Palestinian civilians caught up in a situation that none of them want or deserve.  Please hold all of these people in your hearts in the hope that there can be peace in this region.

We pray for all whose lives have been touched by tragedy, whether by accident or a deliberate act. 

For those who mourn, immerse them in your love and lead them through this darkness into your arms, and light. 

For those who comfort, be in both the words they use and all that’s left unspoken; fill each heart with love. 

We ask this through Jesus Christ, whose own suffering brought us life, here and for eternity. 

Amen

Welcoming Prep 2024 

In the coming weeks we will be welcoming our prep 2024 children and their families as they begin the transition process.  If you see them on the school yard or waiting with their little one, please give them a big MQH welcome and help them feel like MQH is ‘home.’   

Enrolments 

We have vacancies in Prep for 2024 and in some other year levels in our school. We ask you to help us spread the news to families in the area as there are still some families who have not decided on a school for 2024. Prospective families are welcome to contact us to arrange a tour with Renae or Dani.

Student free Days 

Monday 6th November our staff will be engaged in professional learning and composition of school reports. This is the day prior to Melbourne Cup Day.

Monday 4th December our staff will be engaged in professional learning.

BIG Childcare will be available on both of these days for the care of children.

Christmas Carols – Tuesday 12th December 

Christmas Carols are a beautiful way to end our year together!

School will finish at 3pm on Tuesday 12th December.  Families can arrive at school and settle in a space where they can see their performance area.

Carols begin at 3:30pm SHARP – they will conclude at approximately 4:00pm.

After the carols, a family picnic will be held.  We ask that you support our final fundraiser of Sausage Sizzle, drinks, Zooper Doopers and popcorn.  All will be on sale around the school yard.

Snake safety

Last week we managed our first snake sighting on the property.  This is not surprising given the change in weather and our proximity to a developing area of bushland along our back fence.  We will be teaching the children about snake safety and ask you to have the same conversations at home.  Our management is simple and clear:

Never approach a snake

Stand still or

Back away slowly keeping the snake in sight      

Inform an educator immediately 

Educators evacuate the yard

Online safety

In today’s digital age, children are growing up in a world filled with endless opportunities and potential risks online. Ensuring their safety in this digital landscape is a shared responsibility between schools and parents. Today I want to focus on the importance of children’s online safety and the steps we can take to protect them.

Understanding the Digital Landscape

Children now spend more time online than ever, from studying to socialising. It’s essential to acknowledge the benefits of the internet while being aware of the potential dangers. As parents and educators, we must equip our children with the knowledge and tools to navigate the online world safely.

Communication is Key

Open and honest communication is the foundation of online safety. Encourage your child to discuss their online experiences with you. Establish trust so that they feel comfortable coming to you with concerns or questions. Make it clear that you are there to support and guide them.

Setting Boundaries

Establish guidelines for screen time and appropriate content. Set clear rules regarding which websites and apps are safe for your child to use. As your child gets older, these boundaries can evolve to match their maturity and responsibility.

Teach Responsible Online Behavior

Educate your child about the importance of responsible online behavior. Emphasise the significance of respecting others, maintaining privacy, and not sharing personal information with strangers. Highlight the consequences of cyberbullying and the importance of kindness online.

Supervise your children online

Ensure all digital devices are in public areas of your home.  Children should not be using devices unsupervised or in their bedrooms.  Talk to your children about their online activities, get involved

Social Media

No primary school child should have any of the below accounts.  They all require an age of 13+ or 18+!  These platforms require users to be socially savvy and understand the  online behaviour of those they know and of strangers.  Please check your child’s devices and delete any of these apps for their safety.  If you allow your child to have these apps, please understand it is compromising their safety and they your child can be accessed by strangers often acting as young children.  Additionally, much of the content on these platforms is not appropriate for primary school aged children

Say no to these platforms for your children and check devices regularly.

Facebook

Instagram

Snap Chat                               

Tik Tok

Messenger

Twitter

Use Parental Control Tools

Utilise parental control software to monitor and limit your child’s online activities. These tools can help you keep track of their digital interactions, block harmful content, and ensure they are using the internet safely.

Stay Informed

The digital world is constantly evolving, and staying informed is crucial. Attend workshops, read articles, and keep up with the latest online trends and safety measures. This knowledge will empower you to guide your child effectively.

Promote Offline Activities

Encourage your child to balance their online and offline activities. Physical activities, hobbies, and face-to-face social interactions are essential for their overall development.  Research is suggesting too much screen time is resulting in social issues and eye sight problems for young children.

Report and Address Issues

Teach your child how to report any online incidents that make them uncomfortable or fearful. STOP, BLOCK, TELL Address these issues promptly and appropriately, involving school authorities if necessary.

Remember that we are here to support you and your child in their online safety journey. Together, we can create a secure and nurturing environment for them both online and offline.

COVID or general sickness 

We have had some cases of COVID arise across our Greenvale community in the past weeks. Please remain vigilant and test when showing symptoms. We have a number of children who have auto-immune disorders which makes them more susceptible to illness, so as a community we ask that we work together to help protect them. Please stay home if you are feeling unwell.

Hats 

We remind parents that with the warmer weather upon us, children need to wear a school hat when outside. We also recommend the application of sunscreen in the mornings to protect your child’s skin during break times. Should children not have a hat outside, they will be asked to sit under a shaded area during break times. Our uniform shop Noone is fully stocked with school hats.

Leaving MQH at the end of 2023? 

Please let the office know ASAP if your child is leaving MQH at the end of the year. This information significantly impacts our staffing and class configurations for 2024. Email: info@mqhgreenvale.catholic.edu.au 

Phone: 03 73795600

Learning and Teaching

Why do we value small group explicit instruction (Targeted Teaching)?

At Mary Queen of Heaven, children are engaged in at least two small groups of Targeted teaching for reading, writing and maths learning. These sessions are explicit in their design, and driven by data, essentially we are ‘intervening’ by supporting children’s learning through modeling, scaffolded support and feedback.  

Research shows that explicit instruction is far more effective than whole class instruction.  At any given time there can be a spread of at least 4 or 5 (sometimes more) levels of achievement in one classroom alone.  Thus, it is important that we spend more time supporting children at their point of need, we call this their ‘Zone of Proximal Development’.  

What does data-driven instruction look like?

▪️Educators gathered in dialogue

▪️Assessment is collected for analysis

▪️ Assessment is moderated and checked against the Curriculum 

▪️Learning goals are created

▪️Explicit teaching lessons are planned

Dear families,

A reading from the letter of Saint Paul to the Philippians.

If our life in Christ means anything to you, if love can persuade at all, or the Spirit that we

have in common, or any tenderness and sympathy, then be united in your convictions

and united in your love, with a common purpose and a common mind. That is the one

thing which would make me completely happy. There must be no competition among you,

no conceit; but everybody is to be self-effacing. Always consider the other person to be

better than yourself, so that nobody thinks of his own interests first but everybody thinks

of other people’s interests instead. In your minds you must be the same as Christ Jesus.

Each one of us is called to live a path even as we follow in Jesus’ footsteps. We each have our own gifts and desires, and God calls each one of us to respond in a personal way. Let’s spend some time listening to our hearts, for that is where we can hear God calling.

What is my calling?

Who is God calling me to be?

What desires do I have?

What is God calling me to do with my gifts and abilities?

Term 4 has already been joy-filled, with so much to be proud of at Mary Queen of Heaven.  It is hard to believe that we are on the home stretch of our first year as a learning community!  I am extremely excited to be back, as are all staff, and we feel rejuvenated and recharged and ready for the term!  

At the beginning of the week we gathered as a staff to reflect upon our calling to Mary Queen of Heaven and remind ourselves of our mission to live out our Catholic Faith.  We reflected upon our school’s values of LOVE, RESPECT, HUMILITY and COURAGE and how we live these out in our day to day lives. 

We welcome Cathy back from leave and look forward to Renae returning from her Pilgrimage to the Holy Lands, at the beginning of next week. 

Term 4 is always often an exciting yet busy term, as we head closer towards the end of year and begin to plan for 2024.  This term we will welcome our Prep 2024 onsite for their transition days, and our children in Grade 1 – 5 will have their ‘Step Up Day’ when they meet their class and Educators for 2024.  

Prep 2024 Transition

Wednesday 15 November 9.00 – 10.30am

Wednesday 22 November 9.00 – 10.30am

Wednesday 29 November 9.00 – 10.30am

Grade 1-5 Step Up Day

Wednesday 13 December 9.15 – 10.45am

October is the month of The Holy Rosary 

October in Catholic tradition is the month of The Holy Rosary.  The Rosary is a repetitive prayer designed to calm us down, as we meditate. It was designed by St Dominic to assist the majority of people in the Middle Ages, who could not read or write. Through the mysteries of the Rosary, it enabled people to know important events in the Gospel.  Most families own a set of Rosary Beads and October would be a great time to recite all or some of the Rosary with your family during this special time in the Catholic Church.

Zooper Doopers

The sale of Zooper Doopers will continue this term on Mondays and Fridays.  Educators will be selling these at lunchtime for $1.00. Thank you for all your support throughout the year of this fundraising initiative. 

Tony’s Pies Fundraiser

You will have received a  note with an order form for our Tony’s Pies Fundraiser this term.  Should you wish to place an order, please fill in this form and return it to the school along with the money (cash only) for your order.  Please ensure you place the correct change in the envelope as we won’t be able to provide change. 

Orders are due by Wednesday 18 October and will be delivered to the school on Thursday 26 October.

If you have lost your order form, please see Teresa or Lucy in the office for another copy. 

School Fees Reminder

A friendly reminder to please pay any outstanding amounts as soon as possible. 

School Apps

Have you downloaded our school apps?

We invite all families who have not yet signed up to our Audiri app or joined on Seesaw to sign up and join us!  Stay connected with our school and your child’s learning!

SUNSMART: Wearing of  Hats

Mary Queen of Heaven  is a SunSmart School and our policy reflects the recommendations of the SunSmart organisation. The Bureau of Meteorology provides information about the times of day UV levels are forecast to reach 3 or higher, meaning that sun protection is recommended for all skin types. In Victoria UV levels regularly reach 3 or higher from mid – August to the end of April.

As part of general SunSmart strategies, our school:

• Requires all students and staff to wear hats that protect the face, neck and ears (legionnaire, broad-brimmed or bucket style) and suitable clothing whenever they are outside (e.g. recess, lunch, sport, excursions)
• Requires children outdoors without hats to sit in a designated shaded area during play times from the beginning of September to the end of April or whenever UV levels reach three or more. NO HAT- NO PLAY.
• All staff and parents are encouraged to access the daily local sun protection times via the free Sun smart app, or at sunsmart.com.au or the widget on our website. 
• All children are to wear hats beginning this week.

NOT RETURNING IN 2024? 

Have your circumstances changed? Are you not returning to Mary Queen of Heaven in 2024? Please contact the office to discuss your intentions. I have a waiting list of other families for different year levels. I can offer your child’s position to other families. 

Learning Diversity 

October is Dyslexia awareness month. Dyslexia is a specific learning disorder resulting in persistent difficulty in reading. It affects the ability to read accurately and at the expected pace. Dyslexia can also impact comprehension and spelling. Many children with dyslexia may avoid reading or show frustration when reading. 

It is important to note that the appearance of dyslexia is not associated with intelligence. It also has nothing to do with the amount of literature the child has been exposed to. The difficulty lies in the skills of phonemic awareness and decoding using phonics. Even with early intervention, individuals can continue to experience reading difficulty throughout their lives.

Individuals with dyslexia can go on to be very successful. Some famous people who have talked about their journey with dyslexia include Richard Branson (entrepreneur), Kiera Knightly (actress) and Whoopi Goldberg (entertainer). 

In schools, students who have difficulty in reading and spelling are provided with scaffolding and explicit instruction through teacher focus groups, co-educator support and goals that address the individual’s needs. As students become older, they may find using audio books more enjoyable and useful to support comprehension.

For more information see

The Australian Dyslexia Association: https://dyslexiaassociation.org.au/

SPELD Victoria: https://www.speldvic.org.au/

Learning and Teaching

Celebration of learning and parent – educator chats

WOW! What a great way to end Term 3 by celebrating the success and achievements of our children at our Parent-Educator chats as well as displays of their learning journey. Children were beaming with pride and excitement as they shared their learning and discussed their growth with families. Walking around the learning spaces gave us a beautiful snapshot of our children’s ongoing learning journey. It was great to hear the children talk about what they had been learning and the growth they had achieved.

Our children truly outdid themselves, presenting their learning with such confidence. 

We are very grateful to all the families who attended.

Snapshots of learning from week 1

Out ‘n’ About week

You may have noticed an Audiri post recently about our Out ‘n’ About week this term, which is the Mary Queen of Heaven Camp program. 

The aim of our school camp program is to provide children with the opportunity to build independence by engaging them in experiences that help build life skills, such as setting up a table for a meal, sharing a meal and tidying up after a meal.  Our Camp program is also heavily linked to the Personal and Social Curriculum as well as the Health and Physical Education Curriculum.

There are further links to learning that can be made from such experiences, as well as dispositions that children will call upon and build, particularly; persistence, problem solving and empathy. 

We have designed experiences that are developmentally appropriate for children, and build age-appropriate independence.  Below is a brief outline of each year level’s experience and the date on which they will occur.  Each event will be a day event only (not overnight):

Your child(ren)’s educators will provide more information about our camp program in the coming weeks. 

Lord Jesus, Father of all,

We pray for your blessing, favour, and strength over every Dad, Grandad, Uncle and Fatherly Figure in this world, for those who are seeking to walk closely with you in a dark world, and for those who just need to be reminded that you are real. We ask for your renewed courage, for your boldness, for your Spirit to fill them.  Lord, empower all of our Fathers and Fatherly figures to be the role models that you are.  Give them the desire to influence and inspire young minds.

Thank you to the many dads, grandads, fatherly figures who joined us for our Father’s Day morning tea last week.  It was so wonderful to see the beautiful connections made and the investment you have in your children and their education.  The smiles on the faces of our children says it all!  We hope you loved the gifts the children came home with. 

A couple of messages from Renae, from her Pilgrimage to the Holy Land

Following the ‘Footsteps of Jesus’ has been both an honor and a privilege.  Pilgrimage is all about giving up control. Our first stop after Amman was The Dead Sea, a place where nature takes over and you have little control… an apt place to begin.

We journeyed into Jordan and visited the Baptismal place of Jesus. We dipped in the Jordan River, an experience to behold.  We then settled in the old town of Bethlehem where we were welcomed with a warm Palestinian welcome. Visiting a local girls school established by the Josephite sisters was a highlight.  St Catherine’s Church, the birthplace of Jesus, was magical. Every Christmas story ever told is brought to life. It was surreal.  Visiting the home of Martha & Mary and the tomb of Lazarus was exceptional. 

A trip into Jericho and the Judean desert showed us the brutal nature of this land and its terrain. We visited the Mount of Temptation where Jesus fasted and was tempted by the devil. An incredible place of reflection.

We visited the caves where St Joachim and St Anna took shelter and prayed for a child. They were gifted this child in the form of our school’s Patron, Mary Queen of Heaven.

Into the Jerusalem area we visited the Church of the visitation where Mary visited Elizabeth and not long after Elizabeth welcomed her baby boy… John the Baptist. 

These places are deep in our hearts, for me now they are clear in my mind. A time of deep reflection, gratitude and strength image of one’s faith.

Today we visited the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth. A place very special to the patron of our school Mary Queen of Heaven.    The magnificent Basilica was adorned with images of The Annunciation from all over the world.

We were reminded that Mary said the most important ‘Yes’ in salvation  history. When the Angel left her she said ‘Yes’ to carrying and bearing Jesus Christ at a time when doing so was dangerous for a young woman.

Saying Yes to the Lord is easy when things are going well. When do you say Yes at times in your life when you are challenged?

I remember you all in my prayers as we travel through the Holy Land 💙🤍💛

MACSSIS SURVEY

A reminder that the MACSSIS survey will have been emailed to families last  week.  It will be appreciated if you complete it by this Friday, September 15th.  Once you do, please email Dani to notify her with a screenshot of the survey message once you complete it.  Those that do, will go in the running to win 1 term’s Fees!

Thank you to my dedicated staff who continuously seek to create the conditions that enable all children to thrive across all areas; academically, emotionally and spiritually.  Our children are blessed to be in their care.  

We thank our Educators and Co-Educators for their openness and curiosity as they embraced a new model of Inquiry learning.  They have each grown in knowledge and understanding of this model, and we have certainly witnessed children thrive through Discovery (P-2) and Projects (3-6) with engagement levels increasing and children demonstrating a greater sense of agency.

Thank you to all the families Who support Mary Queen of Heaven in many ways.  Without your support and partnership, we would not have the joy-filled children that we are blessed to guide every day!

Thank you to the children who bring our beautiful school to life everyday!  You inspire and motivate us to be the best we possibly can.

We wish you all the very best on your holiday break.  The weather is usually lovely, lots of opportunities for the children to be playing outside.  I pray that you create wonderful memories with those you love, doing the things that bring you joy!

Term Four begins 8:50am Monday October 2nd.  Children are able to wear their Summer uniform.

Daniela De Luca

Acting Principal

“Called by Name: God’s call of Love”

Address of the Holy Father at the Welcoming Ceremony Portugal Lisbon 3rd August 2023

Lisbon Portugal, Small Group Immersions

The Emerging Leaders Pilgrimage through Rome, Assisi and our final destination of Lisbon, Portugal where we celebrated World Youth Week with 400 other Melbourne pilgrims and millions of young Catholics from all over the world was an amazing opportunity for connection with fellow pilgrims and reconnecting with God on a very personal and deeper level. The journey allowed me to step away from the distractions of daily life and focus on my spirituality. Through prayer, meditation, and reflection, I gained spiritual insights, and a renewed commitment to my faith.  The pilgrimage served as a reset button for my spiritual life. Listening to our host Archbishop Comensoli, renowned theologians, Melbourne clergy who accompanied us and fellow pilgrims different perspectives on faith, life and interacting through shared experiences encouraged me to reflect on my own experiences, challenging my understanding of faith, and gaining new insights in the process.  Sharing the journey with others fostered a sense of community, mutual encouragement, and bonding. I have returned from this journey with a deeper sense of faith, purpose, and a stronger connection to my faith community of Mary Queen of Heaven, our Parish of the Good Shepherd and the broader religious community. 

By far my most memorable experience was our private audience with Pope Francis. We were completely unaware that Archbishop Comensoli had arranged this incredible opportunity. Pope Francis embraced us with open arms, his humor, gentleness and inspiring responses to our questions for over an hour speaks to his generosity of spirit and his admiration for those who follow the vocation of teaching.  His message for us was to be open to the call of God’s love, we are called by name and we are the voice to call others so that they too may encounter the joy of the love of God.

Private reception hosted by Chiara Porro Australia’s Ambassador Head of Mission Holy See, Rome

Wearing of School Hats

Mary Queen of Heaven is a SunSmart School and our policy reflects the recommendations of the Sun Smart organisation. The Bureau of Meteorology provides information about the times of day UV levels are forecast to reach 3 or higher, meaning that sun protection is recommended for all skin types. In Victoria, UV levels regularly reach 3 or higher from mid–August to the end of April.

As part of general SunSmart strategies, our school:

• Requires all students and staff to wear hats that protect the face, neck and ears (legionnaire, broad-brimmed or bucket style) and suitable clothing whenever they are outside (e.g. recess, lunch, sport, excursions)
• Requires children outdoors without hats to sit in a designated shaded area during play times from the beginning of September to the end of April or whenever UV levels reach three or more. NO HAT- NO PLAY.

All staff and families are encouraged to access the daily local sun protection times via the free Sun smart app, or at sunsmart.com.au or the widget on our website. All children are to wear h

ats beginning term 4. 

Sunsmart info sheet

Learning & Teaching

P-2 Excursion to Scienceworks

P-2 Scienceworks Excursion ~ Children explored the language of light and shadow. They utilised and built the dispositions of curiosity, perseverance, wonder and awe. Thank you to our Parent helpers and our wonderfful Educators who ensured this was an experience to remember!        

3-6 Excursion to Bunnings and GoClimb

Our 3-6 children attend an excursion to Bunnings and GoClimb this week.  At Bunnings, they put on a tool belt and had a go at some handy art-n-craft, using the disposition of creativity.  Children explored the nursery, engaging their senses in the experience.  They also wandered the aisles of the store, investigating the prices of various items, in an effort to practise real-life financial maths!

Following on from Bunnings, children explored GoClimb, where they needed to exercise our vale of Courage and utilise their disposition of perseverance.  We were in awe of the children (and adults!) who had a go at climbing, truly embracing this experience and the confidence building opportunity.

Thank you to our educators and parent helpers for ensuring this was experience filled with fun and thrill!

Learning Diversity- Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month (Loretta)

September is Muscular Dystrophy awareness month.  Muscular Dystrophy is the name given to a group of genetic neuromuscular disorders that affect the muscles and nervous system.  Muscular dystrophy is caused by mutations in the genes responsible for healthy muscle structure and function. There are many types of muscular dystrophy that have different names, vary in age of onset and specific muscle groups that are affected. All types of muscular dystrophy prevent the body from producing dystrophin; a protein essential for building and repairing muscles.

In schools, students with muscular dystrophy may be supported by having optional seating and assistance navigating difficult terrain.

Schools encourage classmates to be patient when a child may be moving slowly and to offer assistance if required.

While there is no cure for muscular dystrophy, there are treatments available that can help manage the symptoms of the disease. Some of these treatments and therapies include mobility assistance, support groups, surgery and medication. Researchers are actively working to develop new treatments and potential cures for muscular dystrophy.

For more information see https://www.mda.org.au/

CARERS AND GUARDIANS

NCCD Information Sheet for  Parents, Carers and Guardians

Nationally Consistent Collection of Data (NCCD) On School  Students with Disability 

What is the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data? 

Schools must now complete the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with  Disability (NCCD) every year. It counts the number of students who receive additional adjustments  or “help” at school because of a disability. The NCCD helps governments plan for the needs of  students with disability.  

Who is counted in the data collection? 

To count a student in the NCCD, schools must think through some key questions: 

1. Is the student getting help at school so that they can take part in education on the same  basis as other students? 
2. Is the help given because of a disability? The word ‘disability’ comes from the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) and it can include many students. 
3. Has the school talked to you or your child about the help that they provide? 4. Has the school kept records about the help they provide, the student needs and the reasons  that the student needs this help? The school will need to keep copies of tests, student  work, assessments, records of meetings, medical reports or other paperwork and  information about how the student’s learning is moving along over time. 

Once the school decides that the student should be counted in the NCCD, they then choose a  disability group and one of four levels of help that has been given to the student. 

What does the word ‘disability’ mean in the NCCD? 

In the NCCD the word ‘disability’ comes from the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA). There  are four types of disability that the school can choose from: sensory, cognitive, social-emotional  and physical. 

Many students that need help at school can be counted in the NCCD. For example, students with  learning problems, e.g. specific learning disability or reading difficulty (sometimes called dyslexia),  health problems (e.g. epilepsy or diabetes), physical disability (e.g. cerebral palsy), vision/hearing  loss and social-emotional problems (e.g. selective mutism, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety). 

Letters from doctors or specialists can be very helpful for schools as they plan how to support  students with their learning. Schools do not need to have these letters before they can count a student in NCCD. Teachers can use all that they know about the student’s learning and the records  that they have collected over time to decide if a student can be counted in the NCCD. 

What sort of help does the school give students? 

Students need different types of help at school. Some students need a little help sometimes while  other students need a lot of help nearly all the time. The type of help given depends on the needs  of the student. The help can include changes to the school buildings or grounds (e.g. ramps or  things like special desks or chairs), extra teacher help in classes, special learning programs, changes  to the work they give the student or extra adult help.  

How will the NCCD be different this year? 

All schools have been counting students in the NCCD since 2015. The government will use the  NCCD data as part of the funding to schools.  

What will the school need to know about my child for the NCCD?  Schools work together with families to understand the needs of each child. It is helpful if families give their child’s teacher a copy of any letters or reports they have. The letters or reports will help  the school understand the child and the help that they might need. Letters from doctors,  psychologists, speech pathologists, doctor, and occupational therapists etc. can be very helpful for  schools. These reports along with information that the teacher has (i.e. school based tests, your  child’s work and learning plans) helps the school to understand and meet your child’s needs. 

What happens to the NCCD data? Who will have the NCCD information?  Each school principal must check the NCCD data in August of each year. The school will give the  information to the Catholic Education Office. The school will work with the Catholic Education  Office to make sure that the NCCD data is OK before they give the data to the government. The  government will not be given the names of any students or any letters or records. Please ask your  school for their privacy policy if you need to know more. 

Does the school need me to agree with them about counting my child in the NCCD? Amendments were made to the Australian Education Act 2013 and Australian Education Regulation 2013). Schools do not need you to agree to let them count a child in the NCCD. You cannot ask the  school not to count your child.

Where can I find out more? 

Please contact your child’s school if you have further questions about the NCCD and/or refer to the  national NCCD Portal.

2024 NEW ENROLMENTS UNIFORM FITTING INFORMATION

Families who have children commencing school at Mary Queen of Heaven in 2024, will need to make an appointment with the school’s uniform provider Noone, for the fitting and purchase of the school uniform.  Carefully read the attached information in the link provided below, and follow the instructions to book an appointment.  Please do not hesitate to contact the school office or Noone direct for any assistance regarding this information.  To assist you with your school uniform purchases, below is a link that provides you with the uniform pricelist.

Noone – Fitting Information 2024 – MQH Noone – Fitting Information 2024 – MQH

PRICELIST – MARY QUEEN OF HEAVEN 2023 2024

50 WORD STORY WRITING

In Writing, the Year 3 – 6 students learnt how to write 50 word stories. This was a challenging task, as they were not allowed to count the words until the end! They then had to edit their writing piece to make sure it was 50 words exactly!

______________________________________________

Walking up the creepy stairs I heard a Wisper in my ear. It said ”Come play with me in the ball pit up here, I won’t bite”. I bolted down the stairs. Suddenly, gas started coming out of the vents and I fell asleep. I  woke up and saw a…

Aria – Year  3

As I walked up the stairs the dirty carpet under my feet that was once bright pink, now is a worn out faded pigment. Spots of brown stains covered what was once a beautiful crosshatched pattern. Continuing walking up the stairs there was this feeling that the walls caving in.  

Grace – Year 6

I walked up the stairs to the attic. A creepy voice cackled “I’m behind you.” I turned pale. I jolted down to the kitchen to find my bat. I had to show this voice who was boss. I sprinted up the stairs. A box with dark steam coming out was there.

Naledi – Year 5

Walking up the plastic stairs, my hand caressing the pink railing, with a smirk plastered on my face. Each step I took it made a few low creaking sounds. I sat on the hard surfaced couch. It’s easy being perfect as I admire myself in the mirror on the wall.