PDF Newsletter (Issue 7), Term 3, Week 8 - St Charbel's College

Early Stage 1 Coordinator
Ms Marie-Claire Hawwa
It is the half way mark of Term 3 and all students in Kindergarten are displaying academic progress. There has been marked improvement in
the students‟ oral language development and use of letter sounds in Writing and Reading tasks. The confidence of students has increased this
Term and this is due in part to the Kindergarten teachers encouraging the students to be active learners. The students are being taught
thinking skills so that they can become alert, inquisitive and aware of why and how they are learning. Edward De Bono devised six ways of
applying a parallel thinking process that enables people to be focused learners, analytical and productive.
The Kindergarten teachers are in the process of introducing the students to these Six Thinking Processes that apply the De Bono method to
thinking through coloured hats: white hat for seeking facts/information, yellow hat is bright to seek the positives/benefits, black hat is for
judgements and awareness of problems/difficulties and dangers, red hat signifies feelings and emotions, the sharing of likes and dislikes,
green hat is for creativity and exploring new ideas and the blue hat monitors the thought process and ensure rules are followed. I encourage
you to consider what you say to and how you speak to your child, do you ask them questions, do you allow them to explore different modes of
thinking, what do you allow them to watch and to listen to and of what benefit is it to their thinking? Are you making a conscience effort to
stimulate your child‟s mind? Have you ever made the effort to research brain gym ideas online to encourage intellectual thinking in your child?
Stage 1 Coordinator
Ms Sue Durham
Heading towards the end of Term 3, all classes in Stage 1 are showing steady increases in Literacy and
Numeracy levels and children have enjoyed being involved in various learning experiences. We are
fortunate at St Charbel‟s to have many dedicated, creative and innovative teachers who provide their
students with learning experiences to assist them to cope in the 21st Century, including IT and the
catering for individual needs.
Years 1 and 2 have been busy studying interesting topics in their HSIE and Science lessons.
Year 1 students are studying“ Workers in our Community” and hosted a visit from Bankstown Fire
Station on September 6th when firemen gave their time to talk about their work and show the students
the workings of the fire engine. Students were lucky to beat the bad weather when they finally had their
excursion to the Zoo after 2 earlier attempts. Here is what the Year 1 teachers said:
On Thursday 18th August, Year One finally made it to Taronga Zoo as part of their Science unit on ‘Senses’. Each class had the opportunity
to get up close and personal with some animals including a rabbit, possum and lizard during their lesson with a zoo teacher. Some of the
highlights of our day included watching the bird and seal shows and seeing just how cheeky monkeys can be. We are so glad the weather
held out for what turned out to be a really fun day for everyone! Our photo proves what a great day was had by all.
Year 2 students are studying the topic “Toy Story” and are working on projects to design and make their own toy. We look forward to seeing
the end results as Year 2 show their creativity. The unit will finish on September 15th when “Build a Bear” visits the school and children all
make their own bears. Lots of fun!
The term will finish with a “Get Active Day” for Years 1 and 2 at Homebush Bay. This is a day of sporting activity where the students are
involved in a wide variety of sports. Again lots of fun and a great way to wind up a busy term.
Stage 2 Coordinator
The Year 3 students and teachers eagerly awaited Sunday 28 th of August as they made their
First Holy Communion! The students had been preparing for this special sacrament for many
weeks and on Monday 22 nd of August they attended a day retreat at Mulgoa with Fr Elie, Year 3
teachers and some parents. It was an eventful and enjoyable spiritual day where the students
had the opportunity to have their confession with Fr Elie. We were all sorry that Fr Challita was
unable to attend the retreat this year. The day was a great success due to the preparation by the
teachers and the lavish feast provided by the parents. Many thanks to all involved!
Congratulations to the Year 4 girls who came second at the Oz tag gala day held at Parramatta
Park last week. The students in Years 4-6 all had an enjoyable and tiring day and showed great
sportsmanship. Thanks to Mrs Abrahim for organising and training the students.
Not to be outdone, the Year 4 students attended an excursion on the 7 th of September to Darling Harbour to complete their Science and Health
unit on “Life Cycles” and „The Human Body‟. They visited the Wildlife World and the IMAX Theatre.
Stage 3 Coordinator
Miss Charlotte Ahal
Miss Elizabeth Woodin
Term 3 is well under way with many exciting opportunities and learning experiences being enjoyed by the Stage
3 students. Recently, the Year 5 students participated in two workshops presented by the CSIRO. The students
learnt about Circuit Making and Energy, and are currently designing and making electrical devices that move and
light up. We look forward to their finished products. The Year 6 students are enjoying their Random Acts of
Kindness unit. Many groups have contributed to various charities, while others have been giving their time to
assist people in need. The SRC hosted Daffodil Day (26 August) and National Shades Day (2 September).
Both worthy causes
Congratulations to the Year 5 and 6 Girls‟ Oztag teams who participated in a gala day last week. The Year 5
girls reached the semi-final, and the Year 6 girls took top honours, winning the Grand Final. Both teams represented the College with pride,
well done. As we reach the end of term, I encourage all students to remain focused on their academic progress and to keep working to the
best of their ability. While Term 3 is not a reporting term, a portfolio of students‟ work will be sent home at the end of the term. Parents should
maintain a watchful eye on their child‟s progress, ensuring that diaries are used and signed, homework is completed, students are dressed
correctly and have the necessary equipment at school. Thank you in advance for your assistance.
ST CHARBEL’S COLLEGE
NEWSLETTER
Term 3, Week 8 - September 2011 Issue 7
Rector’s Message
Rev Fr Antoine Tarabay
September is here and the days are
already warmer and longer. As nature
regains its colours and warmth, we
raise thanks to the Lord for His
creation and for giving us the gift of
senses to enjoy the beauty around us.
As you are aware, the College's Multi-Purpose Hall was completed
earlier this year. This project was made possible through a grant
from the Federal Government under the Building the Education
Revolution (BER) initiative. The official opening and blessing of
the hall will be held on the 23 rd of September at 10am in the
presence of the Superior General of the Lebanese Maronite Order,
Most Rev Abbot Tannous Nehme and spiritual and civil leaders.
Parents are invited to join the school community at this event.
Letters will be sent home. Please confirm your attendance so the
college can organize seating.
Once again this year, the Annual Art Axhibition will be held at the
end of Term 3 on the 20 th and the 21 st of September. Parents are
also invited to come and view our students' artworks and attend the
performances that will take place. See the invitation in this
newsletter for the opening times and performances. We hope to
see you there!
During the month of September, we celebrate the feast of the
Nativity of the Virgin Mary (Sep 8) and the feast of the
Exaltation of the Holy Cross (Sep 14). At this time, we also keep
our Year 12 students in our prayers as they prepare for their HSC
examinations. We are reminded that the Cross is the sign of our
salvation with which our Saviour triumphed over the sin of the
world. We look up to the Blessed Mary ever Virgin, who accepted
God's will in her life and stood by the cross watching her son die for
us, to lead us to Jesus so we understand the true price that was
paid for our salvation.
Dying, you destroyed our death; rising you restored our life.
Save us by your cross, Christ our Redeemer.
September 2011
UPCOMING EVENTS
Mon, 12-23 Year 11 Final Examinations
Wed, 14 Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Tues, 20-21 Creative Arts Expo
Wed, 21 Year 12 Graduation
Fri, 23 Opening Ceremony: Multi-Purpose Hall
Last day of Term 3
Mon, 10 Term 4 commences
142 Highclere Avenue, Punchbowl NSW 2196
Principal’s Message
Rev Fr Ronny Chaheen
Dear Parents and Students,
It is already Week 8 of Term 3 and what a busy term this has been!
Book Week, under the theme One World Many Stories, was a
successful initiative. Students enthusiastically participated in the
programs organised by Mrs Christine Golz and all the library staff.
The book character parade was a colourful event where students
and teachers dressed up as their favourite book character.
Congratulations to all the winners and a big cheer to the library staff
for coordinating Book Week!
The Year 3 First Holy Communion was held on the 28th of August
at the Multi-Purpose Hall. Students were joined by parents, friends
and teachers are as they received Jesus in the Holy Eucharist for
the first time. We pray that they continue to grow in faith and virtue to
be always worthy of receiving Jesus into their bodies and hearts. A
big thank you to Mr Klumpp, Miss Ahal and all the Year 3 teachers
for preparing the students for this important event in their lives.
Our Parents and Friends Association celebrated Father’s Day on
Friday 2 September with a Mass organised by the Primary School
and followed by a morning tea. I would like to thank the Primary staff
and the P&F Committee for their initiative and we keep all fathers in
our prayers so they are always good examples for their families
leading them to the Heavenly Father.
At this time of the year, the Year 12 students are preparing for their
graduation which will be held on Wednesday 21 September and the
HSC examinations which they will sit in October. This is a very
important time in their lives where they make decisions regarding
their future and careers. They have been adequately prepared to be
responsible citizens and make these decisions. We keep them in our
prayers praying to the Holy Spirit to inspire them along the way.
God of Light and Truth, thank you for giving us
a mind that can know and a heart that can love.
Help us to keep learning every day of our lives,
for all knowledge leads to You
Amen.
Website: www.stcharbel.nsw.edu.au Email: info@stcharbel.nsw.edu.au Tel: 9740 0999 Fax: 9740 0900

Deputy Principal Secondary School
M r J a i m e Rod rigu e z
Year 12 students have come back from their Trial examinations and preparations are underway for their end of year celebrations. A number of
courses are still continuing to cover required content so students must continue to focus on their studies. The Year 12 Chemistry class
participated in the Titration Competition with one of our teams winning the competition against many other schools. Our team was ranked 11th
out of 400 schools in the State. This team will now participate in the National competition on September 17th. This is a great achievement!
Year 10 and Year 8 Information evenings have taken place over the last couple of weeks. Subject selection for next year‟s courses are
important decisions for students to make and so I encourage parents to read the information given and consult with teachers before making
final decisions. Please adhere to the due dates to return forms.
The Learning Support unit is currently running an exciting study program for students of high academic performance. „Mount Everest‟ is
intended as a challenging and fun opportunity to be engaged in learning activities. The Homework Club for Year 7 and Year 8 continues to
run. Many students are taking advantage of this offer but we encourage others to make use of this resource where teachers make themselves
available to help students with their work. I would like to thank all parents for their continuous support of the work we do at school.
Deputy Principal Primary School
Mr John Klumpp
We are well and truly deep into Term 3 now and everyone is busily completing the work in class and preparing for a variety of events.
Our major event, as a Primary School for the term, was the First Communion for our Year 3 students. A lot of time and effort went into making
this day as comfortable and enjoyable for all involved. The retreat was a success in a new venue for us and I thank all the staff in attendance,
including Miss Ahal the Stage 2 Coordinator and the parents involved on the day.
Holy Communion is an important stepping stone in the students‟ journey as young Maronites. As such I particularly would like to thank the
teachers of Year 3: Miss Chan, Miss Zeitouni, Mrs Andreou and Mrs Lagos. We should not forget the input of the Arabic teachers during this
time, these teachers being Mrs Azzi and Mrs Sandrussi. The day itself would not have been a success without the harmonies of our lovely
choir, prepared so well by Mrs Wells, Mrs Sandrussi and Mrs Azzi. I thank all staff for the assistance in helping to make this day special.
At the end of the term we will celebrate the opening of the Multipurpose Hall. I look forward to this occasion as it is a wonderful facility for the
College.
Library News
Ms Christine Golz
Congratulations to all the primary students who participated in the One World Many Stories Book Week activities. Students and classes
produced many excellent displays and competition entries. Numerous awards and prizes were given to students and classes in recognition
of their excellent efforts.
Displays of Book Week Books, Class projects and Student works were exhibited in the library for the enjoyment of students, parents and
staff.
Many thanks go the library staff - Mrs Wakim and Ms Yammouni and to all primary teachers for their hard work adding immeasurably to a
successful Book Week.
Encourage your children to return their library books promptly and bring their library cards to school everyday.
Year 12 textbook order forms have been distributed to Year 11. If you would like to purchase textbooks from Yorke, please fill in the order
form and return to the library WITHOUT MONEY by Thursday the 22nd of September. On Tuesday the 11th of October Yorke books will be
selling Year 12 textbooks to students in the Library Seminar room. Please do not enclose money with orders.
Counsellor's Corner
M r Ram s e y An d r e w s
Tips for effective discipline:
- Trust your child to do the right thing within the limits of your child's
age and stage of development.
- Make sure what you ask for is reasonable.
- Speak to your child as you would want to be spoken to if someone
were reprimanding you. Don't resort to name-calling, yelling, or
disrespect.
- Be clear about what you mean. Be firm and specific.
- Model positive behaviour. "Do as I say, not as I do" seldom works.
- Allow for negotiation and flexibility, which can help build your child's
social skills.
- Let your child experience the consequences of his behaviour.
- Whenever possible, consequences should be delivered
immediately, should relate to the rule broken, and be short enough
in duration that you can move on again to emphasize the positives.
- Consequences should be fair and appropriate to the situation and
the child's age.
School Fees
Third instalment for school fees is now due.
Payments may be paid in cash, cheque, EFTPOS, credit card or
directly into our bank account.
(Please family code must be included otherwise your account may not
be adjusted).
Arrangements may also be made via Centrelink.
Students’ reports will be withheld for families
with outstanding school fees
Learn Music on Keyboard at
St. Charbel’s Catholic School
* Music theory * Instrument playing
* Ensemble practice * Fun music games
* 45 mins lesson weekly, small group
* Music material included
Instrument not required initially
Smart Kids Love Music!
Call to enrol: 9411 3122 (VIP Music est. 1984)
www.learnmusicatschool.com.au
SCIENCE Coordinator
The Science Experience – New South Wales
The Science Experience is a three-day hands-on Science activities
program being conducted in thirty-five universities and tertiary
institutions around Australia.
The programs are designed for students in Year 9 and 10. The
program informs students of the importance of Science and
Technology, stimulates their interest in a wide range of Science
study and careers, while giving them a taste of university life.
The cost for attending is $110.00 and as it is a Rotary supported
project, local clubs are often willing to sponsor students. Students
can enrol online at www.scienceexperience.com.au
For further information please come and see Miss Angeli.
Year 8 Coordinator
Miss Patricia Moussa
Public Speaking
This term, students across Years 7-9 are taking part in an in-school
Public Speaking Competition which will run over three weeks.
Students have been preparing well for this and I wish them all the
best of luck. Winners for each round will be announced in the next
newsletter. Thank you to the students involved for showing great
initiative and to the teachers who have volunteered to help
organise such an event.
Primary REC Report
Miss Rita Angeli
Mrs Mary Wells
As noted by all the Advertising corporations,
television is a powerful influence.
It can sell. It can teach. Millions
of $ are poured into achieving this
every year. Children are quite vulnerable
to the urgings of the clever commercials.
Many parents are aware of
how the power of television can be useful in the development of the
Faith through watching programs that uplift and give an insight into
the Truth. We cannot imagine, though, that its influence stops at
this. Conversely the children who are viewing programs with lesser
moral and ethical themes are learning behaviours that are not what
we could hope for our children. When we sit down to watch TV
maybe we could ask “Would Mary let her little Son watch this?”.
Sport Coordinator–Primary
On Tuesday 9th August the
U/10 girls Futsal team represented
St Charbel‟s College at
the State Futsal Championships
in Penrith. Having won
the Bankstown region, they
played against all the winning
teams from other regions
around the state. The girls
played extremely well and represented
the school with pride.
They won their first game and drew their next two games, missing
out on the semi final by only one point. For their first time playing,
they should be very proud of themselves. The team includes; Natalie
Azzi, Madison Wehbe, Daniella Azzi, Vivianna Jneid, Daniella El
-Kazzi, Angela Rassy, Jennifer Mouawad and Rebecca Moubarak.
On Thursday the 11th of August, a number of students from Year
4 to 6 attend the Sydney Catholic School Oz Tag gala day at Parramatta
and Year 3 attended a Soccer gala day at Yagoona. Students
performed well at both gala days. I would like to congratulate
the Year 6 girl‟s Oz Tag team for winning the grand final and Year
4 girls finishing runners up. Thank you to all staff members who
helped make this day run smoothly. I would like to congratulate all
the students on their participation, good behaviour and positive
sportsmanship.
LOTE Coordinator-Primary
Mrs Marie Sandruissi
الف ص ل الثّال ث،‏ ه و الف ص ل الدّرا سي األكثز فعال ية ي و نتً‏ ي،‏ يا س،‏ خ ب ي ة ي يز
االساتذ
ا نأىَ‏ الكثةز هي الٌّ‏ شا طا ت ت ي ر يز أ أا ً ياي ف يي ه يذا ال يف ي ص ي ل نال ي ر يو ية ي
هٌهوكوى بال،ّدًةز لها.‏
هي هذٍ‏ أ س ي الٌّشاطات:‏ ي وا ال يك ي،‏ يا نال ير يزب ياً‏ ي و األ نل ي
ل،الهذ الصّف ‏ًأه ل الثالث.‏ أى ا،‏ دلّ‏ ال روة ب يز ن ال يٌّ‏ ي ش يا ل نال يو يث ياب يز
نالو شارك و،‏ كوا نً،وٌّ‏ ألِبٌائٌا ال صِغار أى اك وى ا وم األ خد ال ير يا م ه يل ية ي ياي
بالفز نال بّعا ، ألِىّ‏ الو بةح سةد ل تل قل وبهن ال ة ‏ًاء نا رع يل يه يا أك يث يز
بةاضاي نًران قزباًو ه اركو للروة
)Book Week)
!
Mrs Ronda Abrahim
.
.