Veritas Newsletter
June
Welcome to our June Veritas Newsletter
Leadership Team Messages for the Month of June
Dear parents and caregivers,
Welcome to our wrap up and highlights for June. In this newsletter we have included all the main posts/highlights for the month of June.
Archbishop's LifeLink Day 2023
Wednesday June 7, this morning representatives from Our Lady’s Assumption School attended the Official Launch of LifeLink Day for Primary Schools 2023. Head Boy, Emmett Trott and Head Girl Charlotte Cavallaro, along with Deputy Head Girl Cara Swavley and Deputy Head Boy Jayden Nichols joined Mrs Tollis and Mrs Barclay at Newman College. Many students and teachers from across Perth brought posters and listened to messages about the fundraising required for LifeLink agencies . On the big screen (due to Covid), was the Most Rev Timothy Costelloe, Archbishop of Perth asking students to spread the message to help others in need. It was a great morning of sharing followed by a delicious morning tea.
Cross Country
Congratulations to all the students from Pre-primary to Year 6 who participated in today’s cross country running event at Lights St today. It was truly an impressive display of determination, perseverance, and sportsmanship from each and every student who took part today. We also grateful the weather held off. At one stage this morning we seriously thought about cancelling the event and sending all families a message.
The cross country event was a resounding success, thanks in no small part to the dedication and coordination of Mr McDonald. His hard work ensured that the event ran smoothly and provided an exciting and challenging experience for all participants. Also thank you to all the staff who were there at 6.30am to help set up.
I would also like to express my gratitude to the Year 6 faction captains who assisted throughout the day. Your guidance and support were invaluable in helping the younger students run the different courses.
To all the students who took part, regardless of the length of the course you ran, I want to congratulate each and every one of you. It takes great determination and courage to push through physical challenges, and you all demonstrated these qualities admirably. Your spirit, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship were truly inspiring to witness.
Remember, events like these are not just about winning or finishing first; they are about personal growth, pushing your limits, and working as a team. I hope you are proud of your achievements, whether it be completing the course or achieving a personal best. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed, and you should all be proud of yourselves.
Once again, congratulations to all the participants of our cross country running event. You have shown that through dedication, resilience, and a positive attitude, you can accomplish great things. I encourage you to continue pursuing your athletic goals, embracing challenges, and supporting one another.
Congratulations to the following students in each year level:
Year 3 Girls Year 3 Boys
1st Place: Ruby R 1st Place: Jude McC
2nd Place: Evie T 2nd Place: Nico R
3rd Place: Alaina P 3rd Place: Mason C
Year 4 Girls Year 4 Boys
1st Place: Isabella G 1st Place: Alessandro C
2nd Place: Layla E 2nd Place: Lachlan
3rd Place: Aria D P 3rd Place: Daniel F
Year 5 Girls Year 5 Boys
1st Place: Olivia Pottier 1st Place: Eamon W
2nd Place: Emma Turner 2nd Place: Caleb A
3rd Place: Sophia Nichols 3rd Place: Max McD
Year 6 Girls Year 6 Boys
1st Place: Charlotte C 1st Place: Jayden
2nd Place: Cara S 2nd Place: Daniel D R
3rd Place: Giordana O 3rd Place: Emmett T
Wellness Week
In recent years, at OLA, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of mental and physical well-being, especially among children. Understanding the significance of promoting a healthy lifestyle from an early age, our school initiated Wellness Week, a week-long event dedicated to fostering wellness among students and staff. With a variety of engaging activities and thoughtful gestures, the event aimed to create a positive and inclusive environment, reinforcing the value of self-care and mental well-being.
During the week the students and staff enthusiastically joined together in energising dance sessions. Led by songs and dances coordinated by the Wellness team, the moves and beats permeated through the classes with a sense of joy and unity. Dancing not only provided an outlet for self-expression but also promoted physical fitness, uplifting spirits, and fostering social connections.
Drawing and painting adorned every corner, inspiring individuals to explore their imagination and release their inner artist. The therapeutic nature of art allowed everyone to unwind, relax, and gain a fresh perspective, nurturing their mental well-being.
A coffee van was organised and arrived at the school grounds, providing a delightful caffeine boost in the morning for the staff and parents. As the delicious aroma wafted through the air, the OLA staff took a moment to indulge in a steaming cup of their favorite beverage, fostering a sense of appreciation and recognition for their dedication.
Wellness Week also embraced coziness with a Pyjama Day. Students and staff arrived at school dressed in their most comfortable sleepwear, creating an atmosphere of relaxation and tranquility. The focus on comfort aimed to remind everyone of the importance of rest, rejuvenation, and the benefits of a good night's sleep in maintaining overall wellness.
During the week, the P&F Association graciously organized a morning tea for the entire staff. A delightful array of snacks and refreshments were organised for the staff, by the P&F to say thank you for everything they do for the children. The gathering emphasised the importance of communal support and the shared responsibility of promoting well-being.
Wellness Week has become a cherished tradition within our school community, offering an opportunity for students and staff alike to prioritize their mental and physical well-being. By engaging in activities such as dancing, art, and relaxation, and being supported by thoughtful gestures like the coffee van and morning tea, we have created a nurturing environment that values self-care and fosters positive relationships. As we continue this journey, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting wellness, recognising that a healthy mind and body are vital for the growth and happiness of our entire community.
OLA Leadership Team
Bush Tucker Incursion
OLA Year 3 students participated in the incursion of planting the Aboriginal Indigenous Bush Tucker plants near the Veritas Library. This is a significant and meaningful step towards fostering cultural diversity, environmental awareness, and educational enrichment. This initiative, coordinated by Mrs Barclay, represents a tangible expression of reconciliation, acknowledging and honouring the land's traditional custodians and their profound connection to nature.
By introducing Aboriginal Indigenous Bush Tucker plants to the OLA school grounds, students are afforded a unique opportunity to engage with and learn about the rich cultural heritage of Australia's First Nations people. They can develop a deep appreciation for the traditional practices of foraging, food preparation, and sustainable living. Furthermore, this experience encourages students to cultivate a sense of respect and admiration for the land, its biodiversity, and the vital role it plays in sustaining life.
The presence of the Aboriginal Indigenous Bush Tucker plants on school grounds not only enhances the educational curriculum but also promotes inclusivity and a sense of belonging for all OLA students. It provides a platform for their voices and traditions to be heard and valued, fostering pride in their cultural heritage. Additionally, non-Indigenous students have the opportunity to broaden their knowledge, challenge stereotypes, and build meaningful connections through shared experiences and conversations about the significance of these plants.
Overall, the incursion of planting the Aboriginal Indigenous Bush Tucker on school grounds is a powerful step towards cultural integration, environmental stewardship, and educational growth. It creates an environment that celebrates diversity, instills respect for Indigenous cultures, and inspires a collective commitment to sustainable practices. By embracing this initiative, our school contributes to a more inclusive society where Indigenous knowledge and perspectives are recognized and honoured.
Thank you again, to Mrs Barclay, for coordinating this excursion, organising the guest speakers to speak to the Year 3 children and for planting the plants. I also thank the Year 6 ministry students for assisting on the day.
Staffing Semester 2
Please take note of the staffing changes for next semester::
- Luisa Durkin will be taking Long Service Leave in Term 3. Michael Safe has been appointed as her replacement and will be teaching HaSS, for Years 3-6.
- Janelle Shine is returning to Kindy G, from maternity leave, in Term 3.
- Denice Lombardo will be taking Long Service Leave, from Weeks 1-6, in Term 3. Jess Gaffey will be replacing Denice, during her absence, in Kindy M.
- Catherine McGrath has been appointed as the Pre Kindy Teacher on a Thursday (Pre-Kindy G) for Semester Two. We warmly welcome Cath to OLA.
- Carol Panaia will be taking Long Service Leave from 14 August until 20 September. Siena Parissis has been appointed EA for Kindy G until Carol returns.
- Lauren Jenkins has been appointed as the new PE teacher. Lauren is an experienced primary school PE teacher who recently worked at Infant Jesus. Lauren will commence her employment at OLA in Term 3. We warmly welcome Lauren to OLA.
Semester 1 Reports
Semester One Reports will go live on Friday 30 June (afternoon) 2.30pm via SEQTA. Please read the attached 'How To Access" document which gives clear instructions on how to access your child's report. Please also note the school does not have access to your password. If you have forgotten your password, please hit the 'Forgotten Password' button on the main page and follow the prompts.
Students and Staff Return
Staff and students return on Monday 17 July. Have a restful two weeks break.
OLA Parents and Friends
Thanks for your support!
Who knew fundraising could be so delicious? Thanks to all the families who helped raise some dough during Term 1, with our hot cross buns and Easter cookies fundraiser and the Easter raffle.
Together we raised over $1,700!!
Got any future fundraising ideas? Email us at pandf@ola.wa.edu.au