St John the Baptist Primary School - Maitland eNewsletter

From the Principal

Today, our school community came together in prayer and reflection to celebrate the Feast of the Assumption of Mary. This day reminds us of Mary’s deep faith and her role as a model of love, humility, and trust in God.

As Pope Francis said: “Mary’s Assumption is a great sign of hope for us: it tells us that we are precious, that we are destined to rise again.”

It was a beautiful opportunity to reflect on Mary’s example and the values we strive to live out each day in our school.

Updated Digital Technology Policy: Mobile Use in Schools

The Newcastle Maitland Catholic Schools Office (CSO) has released an updated digital technology policy that directly affects how students use mobile phones and wearable technologies across schools in the Diocese.

The 2025 "Student Use of Mobile Phones and Wearable Technologies Guideline" introduces a more structured and safety-focused approach to student device usage. This policy is designed to:

Support digital learning while maintaining a safe and respectful school environment.
Minimise distractions during learning time.
Protect student wellbeing by regulating access to mobile technologies.

This policy reflects the Diocese’s commitment to fostering responsible digital citizenship and ensuring that technology enhances—rather than disrupts—the learning experience.

Parents can read the full policy here: Student Use of Mobile Phones and Wearable Technologies Guideline – CSO Policies

Transition to Summer Uniform

As the weather begins to warm, we will begin transitioning to summer uniform over the next two weeks. This gradual change allows families time to prepare and ensures students are comfortable and appropriately dressed for the season.

Transition Period: Monday 18 August – Friday 6 September
Full Summer Uniform: From Monday 9 September, all students are expected to wear their full summer uniform.

We appreciate your support in helping students arrive at school dressed neatly and in accordance with our uniform guidelines. If you have any questions or require assistance, please contact your classroom teacher or the front office.

Mass Celebrating Diverse Learning – 26th Annual Event
All families are invited to join Bishop Michael Kennedy and the Federation of P&F Associations for a special Mass celebrating diverse learning. This event honours the gifts and contributions of all students and promotes inclusive education

26th_Annual_Mass_Celebrating_Diverse_Learning_Invitation_1.pdf

Fortnightly Frames

Thank you to our community who joined our celebration of St Dominic’s Feast Day — it was wonderful to came together in faith.

Our first peer support session kicked off with Year 6 students leading the way.

Our year 6 students guided the younger students through activities designed to foster connection, confidence, and community.

Students from Stage 3 have started visiting St Nicks - Maitland, sharing stories, smiles, and songs with the students from the pre school room — a beautiful moment of connection and care.

The students who have visted have been natural leaders and role models in action.

Our Year 5 students with Miss McBlaine are putting our new podcast to the test — stay tuned, something exciting is on the way!"

National Science Week 9th - 17th August

National Science Week is celebrated from 9th to 17th August, and this year’s theme is “Decoding the Universe – Exploring the unknown with nature’s hidden language.” This theme invites students to explore the patterns, codes, and systems that shape our world – from the way plants grow, and animals communicate, to the data and technology scientists use to make new discoveries.

Throughout the week, we have embraced the spirit of Science Week with lunchtime Science and STEM activities in the library, giving students the chance to experiment, problem-solve, and work creatively with their peers. These activities have encouraged curiosity, teamwork, and hands-on engagement beyond the classroom.

For more information on Science Week, please visit https://www.scienceweek.net.au/

Religious Education

Staff Faith Formation – Muruny: to breathe life

Recently, staff gathered for a professional development day exploring the intersections of Aboriginal spirituality and Catholic tradition. The day began with One People, a session that highlighted the deep relational connections within Aboriginal spirituality and how these mirror the Church’s mission to unite God’s people.

In the session titled Caring for and Nurturing Creation, staff engaged in practices of deep listening and stillness, reconnecting with nature and the sacred rhythms of the land. The final session, Living Beliefs, invited staff to contemplate symbols and sacred items from both traditions, fostering a deeper understanding of how these expressions of faith speak to our shared spiritual reality.

It was a day of learning, listening, and growing together. Focusing on strengthening our commitment to a more inclusive and spiritually connected school community.

First Holy Communion

Congratulations to our students who have just made, or are about to make, their First Holy Communion.

Winter Olympian - Nick Timmings

St John the Baptist had the honour of welcoming Australian Winter Olympian Nick Timmings! Nick represented Australia at the Beijing Winter Olympics and is now training hard for a spot at the next Winter Olympics, to be held in Italy early next year. His inspiring story and incredible sport had our students captivated!

Fire Brigade Visit

A big thankyou to Loukas Nadiotis and the Fire and Rescue Crew who provided an outstanding presentation on the importance of fire safety. It was a very valuable and engaging experience for our Year 6 students.