Filter Content
- Principal's Message
- Religious Education
- PB4L
- Merit Awards
- Cricket Gala Day
- Congratulations Preston
- Congratulations Rohan
- Mission Month — Colour Run
- Kindergarten Celebration of Learning
- Diocese of Wollongong Christmas Story Art Competition
- Term 4 Environmental Initiatives
- Life Education Van
- Book Club
- Transition to School Through Play
- Unclaimed School Clothing Available
- Happy Birthday
- P&F Term 4 Meeting
- P&F Family Food and Rides Night
- St John the Evangelist Dapto Parish News
- Parent Calendar
- Montessori Pre-School Opening
- Safety Notice: Gastroenteritis Alert — Public Health Alert
- eSafety Commission: Free Webinars for Parents and Carers
- NSW Police Legacy Child Safety Handbook
- Community Announcements
Gospel Reflection
A warm welcome back to Term 4 and I hope you all had a chance to spend quality time with your family and friends. After speaking with several parents, carers, grandparents, and students over the past week, it seems the break provided a well-balanced mix of rest, family time, and catching up with friends. Our students have settled well into a term of quality learning and we look forward to a very productive school term. This term we look forward to teaching our students as they continue to improve in all aspects of their learning and continue to grow in their faith and well-being. The school community acknowledges that every day of attendance at school is important so that our students are engaging in new learning, consolidating their understanding and practising what they learn.
Catholic Education Office Christmas Story Art Exhibition Competition
I would like to congratulate Hannah S (Year 6), Samantha P (Year 5), Alyce B (Year 5) and Lewis R (Year 6) on their artwork being successfully selected in the 2024 Diocese of Wollongong Christmas Story Art Exhibition and Competition. I had the pleasure to join our students and their parents at the official opening night and prize presentation at the Wollongong City Art Gallery last Wednesday, 16 October 2024. This was an opportunity to celebrate the many artistic talents of students across our Diocese. Guests and students were provided with time to view the 48 artworks from students in our Diocesan Primary schools. I would like to commend Hannah, Samantha, Alyce and Lewis for all their hard work and commitment to create such unique and beautiful artworks and to Hannah and Samantha who were awarded ‘Highly Commended’ which is a remarkable achievement.
I would like to express my deep gratitude to Mrs Naomi Scales and Mrs Jen Di Leo for their guidance and support provided to our Year 5 and 6 students who participated in the Catholic Education Office Christmas Story Art Competition.
Congratulations Hannah, Samantha, Alyce and Lewis we are all very proud of your great achievements.
2025 Class Placements
As we begin to move towards the end of the year, planning for 2025 is underway and as a teaching staff, we continue to focus on our students and their learning. The process for student class placement will commence this Term. At St John’s, we take into account the spiritual, academic and emotional well-being of each child, as well as considering their social interactions so that we work towards our main goal of having balanced classes in all grades.
I also recognise that as your child’s primary carer, parents and carers may have specific information that you wish to share with me, as the Principal of the school, that may assist in the organisation of class placements for next year. If there are any special considerations or concerns that parents and carers feel the school should take into consideration, please email or call me by Friday, 8 November 2024, to discuss your request. If you have already informed your child’s classroom teacher with your information you do not need to email or phone me to provide that same information. Thank you to those parents and carers who have made contact.
In light of the above, the following factors will be taken into consideration when making a request for class placements in 2025:
- All requests must be emailed or discussed no later than Friday, 8 November 2024
- As there will be changes with teaching staff for 2025, please do not request a particular teacher as there is a possibility that the current classroom teachers on a grade for 2024 will not be the same in 2025.
- Please note that no changes to class placements will be made after classes are announced at our Meet the Teacher Transition morning on Monday, 16th December.
World Teacher’s Day Friday, 25 October 2024
On Friday 25th October is World Teachers’ Day, a day whereby we recognise and celebrate the many achievements of teachers. This is an opportunity to express our gratitude for the countless hours our teachers spend planning lessons, for the effort they dedicate into helping our students grow, and for their relentless commitment to making the world a better place through education. I would like to express my deep gratitude to the amazing teachers at St John’s who work tirelessly and make a difference to our students. A huge shout out to our wonderful teachers at St John’s!!! Thank you to our parents and carers for your ongoing support and words of affirmation for the care and support our teachers provide our students daily.
Upcoming Events
Term 4 also brings many school events that we look forward to celebrating such as:
- Kinder 2025 Playgroups
- Kinder 2025 Parent Orientation Mornings
- World Teachers Day
- Catholic Mission Month and Colour Run
- School and Class Liturgies and Masses
- 2025 Meet and Greet Morning for students
- Year 6 Graduation
- School Christmas Concert
- School End-of-Year Mass and Awards
Next Monday, 28 October, we welcome our 2025 kindergarten students as they begin their transition to school through playgroup sessions. Starting school is an important milestone in any child and family’s life. Research suggests that children who have a positive start to school are more likely to engage well in their learning and school life. At St John’s, we nurture this positive start by offering a transition to school program that includes informal playgroup sessions as well as formal orientation opportunities. We are looking forward to establishing a great partnership with our new students and parents and carers.
Thank you to all parents and carers for your continued support.
Yours in Faith and Learning,
Michelle Rodwell
Principal
Acknowledgement to Country
St John’s Dapto acknowledges and pays respect to the Dharawal people, past and present, the traditional custodians of the land on which our school is built.
Catholic Mission Month
October is World Mission Month! Together, we have the power to create change and build a more just world for people everywhere. By supporting missionaries in their work, we can create life-changing opportunities for countless children, families, and communities worldwide.
Read Pope Francis’ message here:
Liturgy and Colour Run Fundraiser — Friday 25th October
We will be having a Mission liturgy at 11:15am to pray for Catholic Mission and all those that they help, in particular the people of Mongolia. All are very welcome to join us.
Our colour run will commence at 1pm.
Students may wear a white T-shirt (if possible), old pants and closed-in shoes — these will be covered in non-toxic colour powder and slime by the time they reach the finish line. If students do not wish to receive any colour on themselves, they may wear a black t-shirt so our helpers will know. Students who catch a bus home will need to bring a change of clothes with them for the end of the day.
Thank you to everyone who has generously supported Catholic Mission so far. We've currently raised over $2000, and your kindness is truly appreciated. If you would like to contribute, please click here:
October - Month of the Rosary
October is also the Month of the Rosary, a time when we as a Catholic community focus on deepening our relationship with Mary, the Mother of Jesus. Through the Rosary, we reflect on the key moments in the life of Christ, seeking Mary's guidance and intercession. The Rosary is a beautiful prayer tradition that offers us a way to grow in faith, hope and love as we meditate on the mysteries of our salvation. We encourage families to come together in prayer during this month, uniting your hearts in devotion to Our Lady.
Anniversary of the Canonisation of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop - 17th October
On the 17th October we commemorated the anniversary of the canonisation of St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Australia’s first saint and the foundress of the Sisters of St. Joseph. St. Mary dedicated her life to serving the poor, promoting education and trusting in God’s providence, leaving an enduring legacy of faith and compassion. Her unwavering commitment to helping those in need, particularly through education, continues to inspire us in our own school community, where her values of respect, love, and perseverance are at the heart of all we do. Let us remember as we reflect on her life to strive to follow her example of kindness, generosity, and dedication to others.
Sacrament of the Eucharist (First Holy Communion) — Preparation Program has begun
Last weekend, approximately 50 children gathered to participate in a special Commitment Mass, marking the start of their journey toward receiving the Sacrament of the Eucharist. As they deepen their understanding of this sacred gift in the coming weeks, let us keep them in our prayers.
Loving God,
We pray for these children as they prepare to receive the Sacrament of the Eucharist. May their hearts be open to Your grace, and may they grow in faith, love, and understanding of Your presence in their lives. Guide them on this journey, and bless their families, teachers and catechists who support them along the way.
Through Christ our Lord,
Amen.
Parents of candidates, please note:
- Workbook lessons need to be completed each week and brought to one of the weekend Masses.
- Afternoon practises (candidates must attend both practises — Wednesday 6th November and Wednesday 13 November from 4:00 to 5:00 pm in the Church.
- Due to numbers for Communion this year, Fr Francis has decided that there will only be one ceremony — Friday 22nd November at 6pm.
Christmas Concert — SAVE THE DATE
Tuesday 17th December — 1pm
We warmly invite all families and friends to join us for our annual Christmas Concert, which will be held on Tuesday, 17th December at 1pm. Come and enjoy an afternoon filled with festive cheer as our students present a wonderful selection of Christmas songs to celebrate this joyous season. It’s a special event for our school community and we look forward to sharing the spirit of Christmas with you all. Mark your calendars— we hope to see you there!
2024 - THE YEAR OF PRAYER — in preparation for the 2025 Jubilee Year ‘Pilgrims of Hope’
As we continue through the Year of Prayer, our school community remains focused on deepening our relationship with God. This year invites us to pause, reflect, and pray—both individually and together. Let us keep supporting one another in prayer, trusting in its power to guide and strengthen us.
The Jubilee Prayer
Father in heaven,
May the faith you have given us in your son, Jesus Christ, our brother,
and the flame of charity enkindled in our hearts by the Holy Spirit,
reawaken in us the blessed hope for the coming of your Kingdom.
May your grace transform us into tireless cultivators
of the seeds of the Gospel.
May those seeds transform from within both humanity and the whole cosmos
in the sure expectation of a new heaven and a new earth,
when, with the powers of Evil vanquished, your glory will shine eternally.
May the grace of the Jubilee reawaken in us, Pilgrims of Hope,
a yearning for the treasures of heaven.
May that same grace spread the joy and peace of our Redeemer
throughout the earth.
To you our God, eternally blessed, be glory and praise for ever.
Amen
Prayer Intentions
We pray for all families in our school community who are in need of our prayers.
We pray for the needs of our country and our world.
St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, pray for us.
St John the Evangelist, pray for us.
Kylie Stephens
Religious Education Coordinator
PB4L is an evidence-based framework that emphasises school-wide systems of support for all students and staff. These include proactive strategies for defining, teaching and supporting appropriate student behaviours. Positive behaviour supports are implemented for all students, across all school settings, by all staff, at all times. This continuum of support ensures students’ academic and social outcomes.
All student behaviour expectations are founded on our three school rules – Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be Safe.
PB4L Raffle Ticket Winners
Week 1
| Gunyah | Joseph V |
| Kindergarten | Theron H.S., Rylee C |
| Year 1 | Rosie R, Bailey M |
| Year 2 | Billie L, Eva T |
| Year 3 | Ivy N, Luke M |
| Year 4 | Annabelle F, Christian F |
| Year 5 | Zoe Q, Clara M |
| Year 6 | Lucian Z, Elliot B |
On Thursday, the 17th of October, students from stage three attended a Cricket Gala day at Thomas Dalton Park Fairy Meadow. We entered two boys’ teams and one girls’ team.
It was an early start to the day; students all had to be there by 8:30 am for a 9 o'clock start. Other schools participating ranged from St Joseph’s Bulli to Nazareth at Shellharbour.
For some students, it was their first experience playing cricket, while for others, they had participated before. Therefore, this day caters for all skill levels and abilities. Our fellow students spoke highly of the day and of the experience they enjoyed.
Thank you to Mr Madaschi, Mrs Lakersteen and Samantha Moore’s dad, Simon Moore; without these three people, this day wouldn't have been possible for all the students who attended.
Samantha M. and Emily Z.
Congratulations Preston
Congratulations to Preston T from Year 6 Green, who proudly represented New South Wales in the National School Boys Soccer competition held in Western Australia. Preston's hard work and dedication shone through, contributing to the team's outstanding achievement as runners-up in the nationwide tournament. Well done, Preston—we are incredibly proud of your efforts and success on the national stage!
Rohan could hardly believe the news: he had been accepted into the Australian Ballet’s performance of "The Nutcracker." After nine years of training as a dancer, this was a major achievement for him, a dream that felt like a fairy tale come to life. As a student in year 5, the upcoming rehearsals will fill him with a mix of excitement and nerves, knowing he will soon be surrounded by accomplished dancers. The thought of stepping onto the stage, under the bright lights, and embodying the beloved characters thrilled him to his core. This opportunity wasn’t just about performing; it was an amazing moment that ignited his passion for ballet, strengthening his dedication and ambition as a dancer.
Rohan joined the Ready Set Dance Kid Crew in April, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his dance journey. He felt confident during the audition and was thrilled when he received the news of his acceptance. Since then, he has dedicated himself to intense practice sessions, honing his skills and learning new routines alongside his fellow dancers.
Now, in November, Rohan has already appeared in several videos, showcasing the hard work and creativity he and the crew have poured into their performances. Each practice has been filled with laughter and teamwork, making the experience even more rewarding. Rohan is proud to be part of such a vibrant group, where he can express his passion for dance and continue to create unforgettable memories on stage and on screen.
Exciting News! ? St John's Catholic Primary School is taking part in a Colour Run on Friday, 25th October to support Catholic Mission as part of October's Mission Month! Our students will be running, laughing and getting splashed with colour—all for a great cause! You can support us by making a donation to help empower communities in need. Simply head to our fundraising page here: ? https://www.socktober.org.au/fundraisers/StJohnsSchoolDapto and contribute to this important mission. Let’s make a difference together! ??
The annual Christmas Story Art Competition Exhibition Opening Night took place at the Wollongong Art Gallery on Wednesday, 16 October, which saw Year 5 and 6 students from across the diocese showcase their artistic skills.
This competition invites students to engage with Scripture passages related to the Christmas story, encouraging them to connect these messages to their own lives. By exploring the Scriptures from a new perspective, students select a passage that resonates with them and express their interpretations through their artwork.
This year, 163 entries were submitted from 29 primary schools and one K-12 college in our diocese. A distinguished panel of judges selected 48 artworks for exhibition, highlighting the dedication and passion of both students and their teachers.
We congratulate Hannah S (Year 6), Samantha P (Year 5), Alyce B (Year 5) and Lewis R (Year 6) on the selection of their artworks for the exhibition.
On the night, Hannah and Samantha’s artworks were awarded ‘Highly Commended’ which is a remarkable achievement.
The Christmas Story Art Competition Exhibition is open to the public until Sunday, 27 October, at the Wollongong City Art Gallery. Students, families, staff and the community are invited to visit and view the students' artworks on display during opening hours.
The exhibition can also be viewed via the virtual gallery
https://sites.google.com/dow.catholic.edu.au/christmas-story-art/home
Tales from the Garden
There are a number of Environmental days coming up this term:
- 9 October – 10 November: Schools Recycle Right Challenge
- 7 November: Outdoor Classroom Day
- 13-19 November: National Recycling Week
Our main focus continues to be recycling and FOGO throughout the school. Students are not utilising the correct bins for their rubbish/ recycling. Students will be reminded in classrooms and on the playground and we encourage you to have a discussion with your children about the placement of rubbish in the home setting. During weeks 3 and 6 the bins will be audited to see what students are doing well with their rubbish on the playgrounds. During weeks 9 and 10 the emphasis will shift to remind students about recycling our plastic pens, sharpies, whiteboard markers and glue sticks.
In other news, our sensory garden has grown beautifully and continues to delight the students each day.
Environment Team
The visit from the Life Education Van provided students with both an enjoyable and enriching learning experience. Life Education, Australia’s largest provider of preventive health and drug education, empowers children to make safer and healthier life choices. With the help of the much-loved mascot, Healthy Harold the giraffe, students engaged in interactive lessons that were both fun and educational. The program covered a range of important topics, including healthy eating, personal safety, physical activity, positive relationships, cyber safety, and the effects of alcohol and drugs. Tailored to suit different ages and stages of development, the sessions aligned with the NSW PDHPE syllabus and the Australian curriculum, ensuring meaningful learning. Students thoroughly enjoyed their time in the Life Education van, with many expressing excitement at meeting Healthy Harold!
The closing date for orders is Wednesday 30th October.
This will be the last Book Club order for this year.
Over the next three weeks our 2025 Kinder students will have the opportunity to attend six ‘Transition to School Through Play’ sessions with their families. These sessions will take place in the school hall where children will be able to make new friends through play and parents and carers can meet the Kindergarten teachers and engage with other families.
Playgroups will run from 9am – 10am on the following dates:
- Monday 28 October
- Friday 1 November
- Monday 4 November
- Friday 8 November
- Monday 11 November
- Friday 15 November
We look forward to seeing our 2025 students and their families then.
There are unclaimed school clothing items available. If you would like any of them, they are available for collection from the lost property basket under the COLA area near the stairs, either before or after school. These items will be held until October 25, after which they will be donated to a charity bin.
- Sports Jackets: XXS, 6, 10 (x2), 8 (good condition)
- Sports Pants: size 14 (near new)
- Jumpers: 6 (x4), 8 (x2) and 12
- Navy girls pants: size 14
To the following students who will celebrate their birthday in November — we wish you a very happy birthday and hope you have a great day.
November
| Kinder | Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 |
| Noah | Jordon | Lilly | Kendrix |
| Zoe | Memphis | Elias | Ari |
| Amelia | Matilda | Leo | Charlotte |
| Roman | Belicia | Eva | Katie-Lea |
| Theron | Endy-Amaya or Endy | Aaliyah | |
| Nora | Lottie | Luke | |
| Colt | Estelle | Byron | |
| Flynn | Hannah | ||
| Madison |
| Year 4 | Year 5 | Year 6 |
| Macey | Molly | Kyah |
| Hudson | Isabella | Ash |
| Christian | Marni | Jackson |
| Riley | Clara | Henry |
| Alyssa | Noah | Bella |
| Lachlan | Matthias | Casey |
| Eliza | Jai | Maison |
| Katie | Nina | |
| Aiden | ||
| Caitlyn |
P&F Meeting — 29 October
Please join us for the P&F Meeting on 29 October at 7pm.
If you would like to add any items for discussion, please complete the form below.
P&F Family Food & Rides Night
Our P&F Family Food and Rides Night is nearly here! It's going to be a fantastic night of fun and entertainment with our school community!
Here’s what you need to know:
Our Family Food & Rides Night is on 8 November from 4pm – 8pm within our school grounds! Friends, family and community welcome. We will have a variety of rides, face painting, hair braiding, temporary tattoos, show bags, market stalls, food trucks and a Chocolate Wheel! Our Chocolate Wheel will be cash only and has $4,000.00 worth of donated prizes and will run from 6pm – 7pm. Matilda’s Farm will also provide a petting zoo for all ages!
Some activities will be cash only so bring your coins and notes. Food Trucks will generally have Eftpos available. A single ATM will be available onsite.
Feel free to bring a picnic blanket or chair to sit back and relax whilst watching the festivities! As there will be community members present, parents and carers are expected to ensure appropriate supervision of their children on the night.
Presale Ride Bands available at $35 (cash only) outside the library between the hours of 8am – 8:30am and 2:00pm – 2:40pm on:
- Wednesday 6 November
- Thursday 7 November
- Friday 8 November
- Ride bands on the night will be $40 and individual ride tickets are also available at $8 per ride.
Rides and height requirements
Superhero — Min 130cm to ride
Sizzler — Riders must be above 132cm to ride alone. Below this riders can ride with an adult. Under 109cm cannot ride.
Giant Slide — All ages
Teacups — All ages
Windjammer — All children
Tiki Island Castlen — All children
Jurassic Castle — All children
Gladiator Duel — All children
Wristbands will cost $35 presold through the school. Wristbands will be available on the night at the ticket box for $40. Individual ride tickets will cost $8 per person per ride.
There will also be showbags, laughing clowns game and pluck-a-duck game (these are additional to the cost of the ride bands).
How can you help?
If you are able to volunteer your time in support of the Rides Night, please complete the Google form below.
Any questions, please email pandf@sjjdow.catholic.edu.au.
*Parents/Carers who need to ride with their child will not require an armband.
Parish News
Fr. Francis warmly invites all families to celebrate the Grand Opening of Dapto Montessori Academy Childcare & Preschool, we will be hosting an open day! Families can enjoy campus tours, a delicious luncheon, free children's activities including Montessori activities and face painting, and meet our educational team.
✨ What: Childcare Grand Opening & Open Day
✨ Where: 19 Jeramatta St, Dapto NSW 2530
✨ When: Saturday 26th Oct 2024
✨ Time: 11:00am to 1:00pm
If you’re curious about Montessori education or want to enjoy a family day out, we look forward to meeting you and your family at our Grand Opening!
Fr Francis and the St John the Evangelist Parish Pastoral Council warmly invites all families to join in the celebration of the Eucharist. See below the times for Mass.
Saturday Vigil — 5pm
Sunday — 7:30am, 9:30am and 6pm.
Please see the Parish Bulletin below.
To celebrate the Grand Opening of Dapto Montessori Academy Childcare & Preschool, we will be hosting an open day! Families can enjoy campus tours, a delicious luncheon, free children's activities including Montessori activities and face painting, and meet our educational team.
✨ What: Childcare Grand Opening & Open Day
✨ Where: 19 Jeramatta St, Dapto NSW 2530
✨ When: Saturday 26th Oct 2024
✨ Time: 11:00am to 1:00pm
If you’re curious about Montessori education or want to enjoy a family day out, we look forward to meeting you and your family at our Grand Opening!
Guests will be kindly asked to present tickets upon entry.
Childcare & Career Enquiries: 1300 000 162
https://montessoriacademy.com.au/childcare-centres/nsw/dapto/
On 11 October 2024 a “Public Health Alert” was released by NSW Health encouraging the community to stay alert for symptoms of gastroenteritis. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, headache, and muscle aches. Symptoms can take up to three days to develop and usually last between one or two days, sometimes longer. Hospital data has shown a significant rise in cases in recent weeks across the state.
As we begin Term 4, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect one another within our school community.
Here are a few key steps to prevent the spread of the viruses that cause gastroenteritis:
- To help keep our school community healthy, students or staff members with symptoms of Gastroenteritis should stay at home until 48 hours after their symptoms resolve.
- Everyone should wash their hands thoroughly and regularly for at least 20 seconds using warm water and soap. While hand sanitiser can be helpful, washing hands is more effective!
- If you are dealing with a suspected case of gastroenteritis, please wear a mask and gloves to prevent the spread.
- If surfaces are contaminated, clean them as soon as possible with hot, soapy water, then disinfect them.
For further information please see NSW Health Fact Sheet – Viral Gastroenteritis.
Supporting healthy technology use as your child transitions into high school.
This webinar explores the social pressures, peer influences, and technological challenges young people face as they transition into high school. It also offers practical strategies for navigating online friendships and connections to help minimise negative experiences.
It's suitable for parents and carers of children in upper primary school (ages 11 to 12) and Year 7.
- Tuesday 29 October, 12.30 pm AEDT
- Thursday 28 November, 12.30 pm AEDT
eSafety 101: How eSafety can help
- Thursday 24 October, 12.30 pm AEDT
- Wednesday 4 December, 12.30 pm AEDT
The “NSW Police Legacy Child Safety Handbook” is a comprehensive and free resource to assist parents and carers on a range of topics essential to child safety.
This new digital edition (link below) includes important content updates from: NSW Rural Fire Service (NEW fire danger ratings), NSW Health (Water & Pool Safety), Transport NSW (School Bus Safety).
Please click on the cover below to view the digital handbook:
Child Safety Handbook is also available for download on:
UOW Year 6 Parent and Carer Webinar - Maximising Success When Transitioning to High School
Join UOW for this exciting webinar opportunity to learn from parent & education experts about enhancing and supporting your child's transition to high school ahead. Whether you're a parent or carer of a child in Year 6, or generally just interested in children's transition to high school and UOW opportunities on the horizon, this is not to be missed!
How? Online via Zoom
When? Monday, 11 November, 2024, 7pm -8 pm
Register: UOW Year 6 Parent & Carer Webinar Registration
Topics explored will include;
- Adapting to change and new routines & environments
- Making new friends and maintaining old friendships
- Coping with peer pressure, risk taking
- Managing time and demands of new study and increase in expectations of high school
- Taking ‘good risks’ in learning
- UOW high school programs on the horizon
- Understanding university opportunities into the future
Register via the link provided here: UOW Year 6 Parent & Carer Webinar Registration
