Reflection

First Holy Communion: A Special Celebration

Last Sunday, many of our students made their First Holy Communion. This beautiful sacrament marks an important step in their faith journey — a sacred moment where they deepen their relationship with Jesus through the gift of the Eucharist.

First Holy Communion reminds us of the central role the Eucharist plays in our lives as Catholics, nurturing and strengthening us to live as disciples of Christ. It was a special day for the students, their families, and our parish community, and a wonderful example of how closely connected our school and parish truly are. Together, we walk with our students and families as they grow in faith and belonging, sharing in moments like these that really unite us as one.

Congratulations to all those who received this sacrament. May this milestone in their faith continue to be a source of grace, joy, and belonging for them and their families. I also sincerely thank the Holy Family staff who took time out of their own parishes to be there on the day. We are blessed to have such supportive staff.

Director of Schools Visit

Mr Peter Hill, the Director of Schools in the Diocese of Wollongong, visited our school on Monday 23rd June. It was a great visit where he and I met about the overall needs of our wonderful school and we spoke about different data sets and the progress of the learning at Holy Family. Peter did a tour of the school and visited a number of classrooms. Peter’s comments to me were that our school is a wonderful place of learning that is welcoming and very calm. 

We are also looking forward to our Cyclic Inquiry that is to take place in September. We are always looking for ways to improve the learning and well-being outcomes of our students. One way we do this is through a process called Cyclic Inquiry.

Cyclic inquiry involves our staff working together in an ongoing cycle of:

• Reflecting on data and student needs
  
  

• Setting clear goals for improvement
  
  

• Taking informed action in the classroom and across the school
  
  

• Reviewing and refining our practices
  
  

This process helps us make evidence-based decisions that are responsive to the needs of our students. It keeps our focus on what matters most — ensuring every child is supported to learn, grow, and thrive in a Christ-centred learning environment.

We will also seek out student voices and also feedback from you, our parents and carers.

Vision Moments

We continue to embed the principles of gratitude, empathy and mindfulness throughout school life as we believe that they support our school vision which is to be a ‘A welcoming Catholic school community that endeavours to bear Christ to all’.  

Please see below some moments that I am grateful for over the past fortnight:

• Sophia L (1W) for showing kindness to a classmate who needed extra help

• Rory O (2B) for helping a younger student

• The parents who gave their time to assist at our recent Athletics Carnival

• The parents who gave their time to coach teams at the Netball Gala Day

• The Ecology Team (Year 6 students ) who are so committed to their roles and responsibilities

• Father Henry for his care and support of our school, especially for his much loved class visits!

I could spend all day listing similar moments like this within our community. Like Christ, these students have inspired many others to work towards becoming the bearers of Christ’s love.

Semester Reports

Primary schools are required to provide a twice-yearly report for students in Kindergarten through to Year 6. Teachers write the reports and award grades in line with the NSW K-10 Syllabus outcomes and the Diocese of Wollongong Religious Education Curriculum. Our Semester 1 reports will be made available this afternoon via Compass.

• All Kindergarten students will receive a written report in Semester 1 and Semester 2 with a three-point grade scale used to report student achievement using the following performance descriptors:

• Thorough

• Sound 

• Basic

• Students in Years 1 through to Year 6 will also receive semester reports twice a year with a five-point grade scale used to report student achievement using the following performance descriptors: 

• Extensive

• Thorough

• Sound

• Basic

• Elementary 

Awarding Grades

A grade is awarded based on the evidence teachers have of a student’s learning and performance in a particular KLA and the standard it reflects against what has been taught at this point in time. According to the 5 Point Grade Scale, ‘Sound’ in a particular KLA, indicates the student has demonstrated that they have gained the knowledge, skills and understanding expected of them at that point in time.

It is not unusual for a student’s overall grade to change from one reporting period to the next as the knowledge, skills and understandings they learn in each KLA will vary from one reporting period to the next.

In the Positive Behaviours for Learning section of the report, a 3-point grade scale is used to report on your child as a learner and a community member. This focuses on the student's non-academic behaviour, identifying social skills and behaviours that build well-being and contribute to positive learning outcomes in school settings. The following performance descriptors are used: 

• Consistently 

• Sometimes

• Rarely 

We follow the Diocesan wide reporting guidelines and as such, there is no general concluding comment at the conclusion of Semester 1 reports. As you are aware, you have the opportunity for a face to face parent / teacher meeting next week. The staff are really looking forward to discussing your child’s learning progress with you at these meetings.

Finally, as we approach the end of Term 2, I would like to thank you all for your support over the first semester of the year. We have much to be thankful for as a community.

In all things at Holy Family, Give Thanks.

Mrs Smith

Uniform Shop

The Holy Family Second-hand Uniform Shop will open on Monday and Wednesday from 2.15pm until 3.15pm during the school term

What do we do?

The Holy Family Second-hand Uniform Shop provides the school community the opportunity to purchase good quality second-hand uniforms as a means of cost savings and services to our community.

How to donate?

We gratefully accept clean, and in good condition uniforms, to resell to our school community.  Drop off washed uniforms at the front office during school hours or at the Second-hand Uniform Shop on Monday or Wednesday between 2.15pm and 3.15pm.

Second-hand Uniform Shop Location

The Shop is located at the back of the school hall - access is via the security gate.

How to Purchase?

You can purchase in store at the shop.  Cash payments only - no EFTPOS.

Holidays are right around the corner! Here’s what South West Sydney has in store for you 

All SWSLHD:

• Having trouble planning for the holidays and keeping your days on track? Download our School Link Holiday Z Card for activities you might enjoy, self-care ideas and someone to call if you get stuck. https://schoollink.swslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/pdf/HolidaySurvival.pdf
• NAIDOC week falls on the first week of school holidays 6^th– 13^th July  Check out how your local community is celebrating here: https://www.naidoc.org.au/local-events/local-naidoc-week-events
• Check your local council page for details on all the winter activities!
• Apply for an active and creative kids voucher to help with activity costs: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/apply-for-an-active-and-creative-kids-voucher
• SEE ATTACHMENT 1Are you a Young Carer? Join in all of the holiday fun with the Little Dreamers/ Carer Gateway Winter school holiday program. Events online, Liverpool and Campbelltown.
• Here’s Western Sydney Mum’s guide to these winter school holidays: Western Sydney Mums
• The Lebanese Muslin Association have some exciting activities lined up for 15-25 year olds living, working, or studying in the Canterbury Bankstown, Liverpool or Fairfield LGAs.To be eligible for registration you must be: a migrant and/or refugee visa holders and have been in Australia for less than 5 years.
• Business Basics & Beading workshop (on the weekend) https://events.humanitix.com/self-employment-workshop
• 2-day floristry workshop (during school holidays) https://events.humanitix.com/floral-design-2-day-workshop
• Hairdressing & Barbering workshop (need to be school leavers)  https://events.humanitix.com/fade-like-a-barber-t3
• Free Interactive English Classes for Youth with Navitas: https://events.humanitix.com/learn-and-speak-english

EVENTS BY LGA:

                                                                                                                          Camden:

• @ Camden Council Here- Bookable book into council’s workshops, play sessions and fun events this winter!
• 30+ Things to do for under $20
• Check out the Mount Annan Botanic Garden: https://www.botanicgardens.org.au/teachers-and-schools/excursions/all-excursions/vacation-care
• Drop by Julia Reserve! https://www.juliareserveyouthprecinct.com.au/services/
• Catch BYU at Julia Reserve and have a look at what else they have going on for the holidays: https://www.yellowumbrella.org.au/community-wellbeing__trashed/whats-on-at-byu/

https://www.yellowumbrella.org.au/our-services/

• SEE ATTACHMENT 3 Are you a young carer? Being a young parent doesn’t mean putting your future on hold! Join Village Connect for a day of unlocking opportunities, smashing barriers, and exploring your future!
• Check out Camden Kidsfor more activities
• Check out Camden RSL’s Youth Club running Gymnastics and Boxing for low fees: https://www.camdenrslsubbranch.com.au/youth-club/

Campbelltown:

• SEE ATTACHMENT 3 Are you a young carer? Being a young parent doesn’t mean putting your future on hold! Join Village Connect for a day of unlocking opportunities, smashing barriers, and exploring your future!
• Check out School Holiday programs and events:

o   Chill Fest – Campbelltown’s very own Winter Wonderland! This July school holidays, Koshigaya Park will be transformed into a sparkling winter wonderland as Chill Fest returns to warm your hearts. Chill Fest 2025 - Campbelltown City Council

• https://www.campbelltown.nsw.gov.au/Services-and-Facilities/Community-Services-and-Programs/Programs-suitable-for-you/Children

o   https://www.campbelltown.nsw.gov.au/Whats-On

o   30+ Things to do for under $20 

• Make sure to book in for all the fun activities PCYC are running https://www.pcycnsw.org.au/campbelltown/
• Check out what’s on for the holidays with Tharawal: https://tacams.com.au/children-and-family-services/family-programs/
• Pop down to Campbelltown Arts Centre:

https://c-a-c.com.au/winter-school-holiday-workshops/

https://www.campbelltown.nsw.gov.au/Services-and-Facilities/Campbelltown-Arts-Centre/Public-Programs

• Contact the Youth Team at Western Sydney MRC to find out what they’ve got on for the winter break: Phone: 02 8778 1200 / 8778 1202 Email: info@wsmrc.org.au

Liverpool:

• What’s on in Liverpool Council:

https://www.liverpool.nsw.gov.au/community/your-community/school-holiday-program-2025

https://www.liverpool.nsw.gov.au/whats-on

• Library Events - WHAT'S ON | Liverpool City Council - Library (nsw.gov.au)
• Activities at Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre - https://www.casulapowerhouse.com/whats-on?result_56110_result_page=1
• Fancy a bit of Line Dancing? If you 6yo+ come join in on the fun hour long workshop (under $20) https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kids-line-dancing-workshop-tickets-1375231146379?aff=ebdssbdestsearch&keep_tld=1
• Contact the Youth Team at Western Sydney MRC to find out what they’ve got on for the winter break: Phone: 02 8778 1200 / 8778 1202 Email: info@wsmrc.org.au
• The Street University: Check out what’s on at https://streetuni.com.au/
• Make sure to book in for all the fun activities PCYC are running https://www.pcycnsw.org.au/liverpool/
• https://www.thejunctionworks.org/service/school-holiday-youth-programs/

Wingecarribee:

• What’s on in Wingecarribbe: https://www.wsc.nsw.gov.au/events-directory/  
• See what’s going on at the library! https://www.trybooking.com/eventlist/wingecarribeepubliclibraries
• Check out Reframe and what’s on @ https://www.communitylinks.org.au/reframe/
• 30+ Things to do for under $20,
• Make sure to book in for all the fun activities PCYC are running https://www.pcycnsw.org.au/southern-highlands/
• https://www.mycommunitydiary.com.au/New_South_Wales/Wingecarribee
• Keep an eye on: https://www.facebook.com/highlandsyc

Wollondilly:

• Check out https://www.wollondilly.nsw.gov.au/home/events/ for exciting events like:
• For parents looking for vacation care options, Council have you covered with their winter program: Winter Program » Wollondilly Shire Council
• Check out the School Holiday Bucket list https://www.visitwollondilly.com.au/plan/newsletter-and-blog/blog/school-holidays-bucket-list/
• Make sure to book in for all the fun activities PCYC are running https://www.pcycnsw.org.au/southern-highlands/
• https://www.ymcansw.org.au/centres/ymca-picton-oshc/

 NEARBY /OTHER OFFERINGS for the Holidays:

• NSW Office of Sport – FREE Holiday Break Camps : NSW Office of Sport For more information on School Holiday Programs https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/sport-and-recreation-centres/school-holiday-programs
• Check out your local Headspace centre or Youth Centre for more ideas.
• Cumberland Council activities and care programs

https://www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/whats-on?keyword=dol&date-type=

https://www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/school-holiday-care

o   SEE ATTACHMENT Get your tickets to Cumberland Council’s free screening of Happy Feet in celebration of Plastic-Free July! Open to all!
Bring the family along for a fun and meaningful morning.

Date: Saturday, 5 July 2025.

Time: 10am to 1pm. Movie screening commences at 10:30am.

Location: The Granville Centre, 1 Memorial Drive, Granville.

Register: Plastic Free July 2025 | Cumberland City Council

o   Sign up for The Youth Employment & Skills Expo - For young people aged 15–25 who are exploring their future career paths. Parents, teachers, and youth workers are also encouraged to come along and support the young people in their lives.

On the day, there’ll be opportunities to gain hands-on experience, meet and connect with employers, and learn about training and job pathways.

Event details:8^th July  from 10-12pm at The Granville Centre.

For more information or to register for a workshop, visit:  Youth Jobs and Skills EXPO | Cumberland City Council

(Nail art, make up ,cake decorating and bootcamp workshops available)

o   FREE Youth BASKETBALL Program

FREE Youth Basketball Program (12-25) Tickets, Mon, Jul 7, 2025 at 12:30 PM | Eventbrite

o   FREE JMC ACADEMY Acting Workshop’s

12-15y/o

FREE JMC Academy Acting Workshop (12-15) Tickets, Fri, Jul 11, 2025 at 10:00 AM | Eventbrite

16-25y/o

FREE JMC Academy Acting Workshop (16-25) Tickets, Fri, Jul 18, 2025 at 10:00 AM | Eventbrite

o   FREE YATIMBA Afro Step Program FREE Yatimba Afro Step Program (12-25) Tickets, Mon, Jul 7, 2025 at 10:00 AM | Eventbrite

o   FREE SKATE NOW Program FREE Skate Now Program (12-17) Tickets, Mon, Jul 14, 2025 at 2:00 PM | Eventbrite

o   FREE SYDNEY COMEDY SCHOOL Workshop’s
12-15y/o

FREE Sydney Comedy School Program (12-15) Tickets, Wed, Jul 16, 2025 at 2:30 PM | Eventbrite

16-25y/o
FREE Sydney Comedy School Program (16-25) Tickets, Tue, Jul 15, 2025 at 2:30 PM | Eventbrite

o   FREE STARS WITHIN All Abilities Dance Program  FREE All Abilities Youth Dance Program (12-25) Tickets, Wed, Jul 16, 2025 at 10:00 AM | Eventbrite

o   FREE TENNIS Program FREE Youth Tennis Program (12-25) Tickets, Thu, Jul 17, 2025 at 11:00 AM | Eventbrite

• Auburn Youth Centre has so many exciting school holiday events coming up. Check them out at https://www.ayc.org.au/events/winnter-school-holiday-pogram/
• Check out what’s going on in the Sutherland Shire: https://www.sutherlandshire.nsw.gov.au/play-and-explore/council-events/school-holiday-activities
• Check out what’s going on in the Illawarra Shoalhaven region:

o   https://www.nsw.gov.au/regional-and-primary-industries/holiday-fun-for-regional-youth/illawarra-shoalhaven-holiday-break-activities

o   https://whatsoninwollongong.com.au/whats-on-school-holidays-activities-2/

o   https://parents-guide.com.au/directory-category/school-holidays/

• Check out what’s going on in Goulburn: https://www.goulburnaustralia.com.au/event/gmc-youth-services-school-holiday-program-october-2023/
• Fancy some pizza making? Joey’s is running a kids program for under $20 (Baulkham Hills) https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pizza-making-workshop-for-kids-tickets-1418005074349?aff=ebdssbdestsearch&keep_tld=1
• How about Sushi? Umaya is running 30min workshops specially for kids for under $10 (Kirrawee) https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kids-sushi-workshop-tickets-1414643228979?aff=ebdssbdestsearch&keep_tld=1

There are also many services who will continue to be available in this time. These include:

• Safe Haven – Friday-Mondays 12-7.30 (INCLUDING public holidays) Sites at Liverpool and Campbelltown. Face to Face peer support, and a safe place for those with chronic suicidal thoughts - https://www.swslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/SafeHaven SPOT will also remain available.
• Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 659 467 or online video chat option- Suicide Call Back Service provides free immediate professional telephone and online counselling support for anyone affected by suicide. e.g. feeling suicidal, worried about someone else, or bereaved by suicide.
• Lifeline – 13 11 14
• Kids Helpline – For ages 5 – 25 years. Call 1800 55 1800 or Webchat at https://kidshelpline.com.au/
• NSW Mental Health Line - 1800 011 511
• Emergency Services remain available, via 000 or your local Emergency Department
• For those engaged with CAMHS, services will continue throughout the holiday period, excluding public holidays.
• 1800 RESPECT (Call 1800 737 732)

We hope you all have a restful, safe, and enjoyable holiday. See you all in Term 3!