ISSUE 14: 16th May, 2025

Principal Message

Gospel Reflection

In this Sunday’s Gospel (John 13:31-35), Jesus gives us a simple but powerful command: “Love one another as I have loved you.”

As parents, this reminds us that the love we show in our homes—through patience, kindness, and understanding—reflects God’s love in the world. May we continue to lead our children with open hearts and a spirit of compassion in all we do.

What’s on Next Week Term 2, Week 5

Coming up in Term 2 (Week 6) Catholic Education Week

Dear Parents, Guardians, Staff & Students,

This Week at Sacred Heart

It’s been another full and meaningful week at Sacred Heart!

On Monday, we held a lockdown drill as part of our Work, Health & Safety protocols. Students responded calmly and followed instructions well—an important step in ensuring they know how to stay safe during emergency situations.

Our Year Six students took part in CPR training on Wednesday with Angela from Hands on Heart Australia. It was a fantastic hands-on session where students learned vital life-saving skills and showed great focus and maturity throughout.

On Tuesday evening, our School Advisory Council gathered for its second meeting of the year, where we were joined by Stephen Russell to begin work on our upcoming School Review and the development of our 2026–2030 School Improvement Plan. Thank you to our parent reps for their valuable input and support.

To end the week, we celebrated Education Support Staff Day on Friday, a chance to thank the incredible people who support our students, staff, and school behind the scenes every day. From Learning Support Officers to Admin, Maintenance, and our Medical Officer, we are so grateful for everything they do to make Sacred Heart such a special place.

Thank you to all in our community for your ongoing support!

2026 Foundation Enrolment

Enrolments for Foundation students in 2026 have begun! If you're interested, you can apply by clicking here. The deadline for enrolments is Friday, May 30th, 2025, at 4 pm. We encourage our current families to apply now through the school website link provided above. If you know any new families considering Sacred Heart for their child, please share this information about our enrollment process with them. 

School Closure Day

A reminder that this Monday is a School Closure Day, with no classes for students. All Teaching and LSO staff will be attending Professional Learning with James Anderson at the Mildura Golf Club, focusing on the concept of Learnership—developing a mindset where learners embrace challenges, persist through setbacks, and take ownership of their growth. This important session will support future school improvement planning, and we thank you for your understanding.

Catholic Education Week Launch Mass

From May 26th to 30th, we will celebrate Catholic Education Week, a time to reflect on the importance and impact of Catholic Education across the Ballarat Diocese. This year’s theme is “May the God of hope fill you with joy and peace.”

As part of the celebrations, all Sunraysia Catholic schools will gather for a Mass at St Joseph’s College Mercy Campus on Wednesday from 10:00am to 11:00am. With around 1,000 students in attendance, it promises to be a vibrant and joyful celebration of our shared faith—and parents are warmly invited to join us.

School Sports Victoria (SSV) District AFL 9’s & Hockey

We wish our boys' and girls' Football and Hockey teams the best of luck at Thursday’s district games against St Paul’s, Trinity Lutheran, and Henderson College. Football matches will begin at 9.45am at Sarah Oval, and Hockey games will start at 10am at the Sunraysia Hockey Association field at the Aero Ovals.

Scholastic Book Fair

Our Scholastic Book Fair at Sacred Heart happens each day next week.  Parents can accompany their children between 8:20 am - 8:40 am and 3:00 pm - 3:30 pm each day during the Book Fair to explore and purchase books. Please note that students must be accompanied by an adult. We hope that students have already prepared their 'Wish Lists' of books they're eager to purchase.

Term 2 Pupil-Free Days – Please Note

We have a few additional pupil-free days scheduled throughout Term 2. Please take note of the dates below and add them to your calendars:

• Monday 19th May – Learnership Focus with James Anderson
• Tuesday 27th May – Diocesan Strategic Plan (2025–2035)
• Friday 6th June – School Review Preparation for 2025

Thank you for your support as our staff engage in this important professional learning.

Cold Weather Dress Code

As the weather cools, it's important for students to dress warmly to stay healthy. Please remember to wear the winter uniform on chilly days. Avoid wearing tights with summer uniform, and note that the navy blue weather-proof jacket does not substitute for a jumper. Additionally, jackets cannot be worn in classrooms, so wearing a jumper is still recommended.

God Bless!

Mr Mark Gibson

Religious Education

2025 Sacramental Dates

Sacrament of Confirmation (Year 3 & Above) 

• Celebration of Sacrament - Friday 30th & Saturday 31st May & Sunday 1st June

Sacrament of Holy Communion (Year 4 & Above)

• Parent Information Session - Wednesday, 2nd April
• Celebration of Sacrament - Friday 20th, Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd June

Sacrament of Reconciliation (Year 2 & Above)

• Parent Information Session - Wednesday, 15th October
• Celebration of Sacrament - Wednesday 26th November

Please find below the link for the March 2025 edition of “Our Diocesan Community” 

Lost Property:

Now that the mornings are a bit cooler, children are wearing their jumpers and then taking them off as it warms up. We currently have about 25 jumpers/jackets in lost property that DO NOT have names on them. The baskets are overflowing! I am returning jumpers that are named to their owner and these names make my job a bit easier. If your child has lost a jumper, please feel free to head to the Lost Property area outside Mootwingee and take an unnamed jumper and write your child’s name on it. Thanks Mrs Carmichael

Soup Kitchen:

During this week we have had some very generous donations for the Soup Kitchen. Katrina & Darren Clarke (Mallee Foods) have donated a huge box of teabags, coffee, milo and sugar which will certainly be appreciated by the clients now that the weather is cooling down. 

Shannon Bush together with Coomealla High School students have brought in a range of freshly cooked muffins and cookies. These will be used for dessert at our SH SK duty on Monday 19th May and again, will be warmly received

If you are on the SK roster and have not returned an email to me confirming your availability, please do so, so that I know the roster is filled. I will send out an updated parent roster in the next week or so.   Many Thanks Chris 

Learning & Teaching

It is very important that students arrive at school on time in the mornings. If students arrive by 8:40am they have time to unpack their bags and have a quick play with their friends before starting class at 8:55.  When arriving on time, students are settled ready to commence their learning.  

When students arrive late, many students feel quite unsettled during the first hour of the learning block. Learning Support Officers often have to stop what they are doing and support the student to take their food over to the fridges, or to get their materials out for that lesson.

Term 2 Overviews of Learning

We are pleased to share the Term 2 Overviews of Learning with our school community. These documents outline the key areas of study for each year level. We encourage all families to engage in conversations with their children about their learning experiences, as ongoing support at home plays an important role in student success.

Wellbeing

Schools TV

In this edition of SchoolTV - School Refusal

School refusal, sometimes called school avoidance or school phobia, is not uncommon. It is different to ‘wagging’ or truancy and is often related to worry or anxiety-related issues about going to school. School refusal may start gradually or happen suddenly. Although it is normal for a child to occasionally miss a day of school, parents should only be concerned if a child regularly complains about feeling sick or often asks to stay home due to minor physical complaints.

School refusal is a complex issue as there is rarely a single cause. It affects children of all ages across primary and secondary levels. It can often occur during times of transition at school. More recently, the Coronavirus pandemic has disrupted the educational experience of all students, affecting some more than others. Dealing with a school refusal child can affect the whole family, adding pressure to an already challenging time. School refusal is not considered a formal psychiatric diagnosis. It’s a name given to an emotional and/or behavioural problem.

In this edition of SchoolTV, adult carers will learn how best to approach this issue and work towards a solution.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this edition of SchoolTV and we always welcome your feedback. If you have any concerns about your child, please contact the school counsellor for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to the School Refusal edition of SchoolTV
https://shmildura.catholic.schooltv.me/newsletter/school-refusal

SWPBS

Our SPBS focus this week is “Being respectful at play times”

Play time is one of the most exciting parts of the school day. It’s a chance to take a break from lessons, spend time with friends, and have fun. Whether it's on the playground, in the stadium, or on the oval, play time helps students recharge and build important social skills. But to make sure everyone enjoys it, one thing is very important: respect.

Respect means treating others the way you would like to be treated. During play, this can show up in many different ways:

1. Taking Turns and Sharing

Games are more fun when everyone gets a chance to play. If you’re using playground equipment, playing a game with a ball, or sharing toys, remember that others want to use them too. Taking turns and sharing shows kindness and helps prevent arguments.

2. Including Others

No one likes to be left out. If you see someone standing alone or looking left out, invite them to join your game. Being inclusive is a great way to make new friends and helps everyone feel welcome and safe.

3. Using Kind Words

Play time can get competitive, especially during sports or games. But it’s important to stay kind. Avoid teasing, name-calling, or using angry words. Encouraging others, saying “good game,” or simply being polite makes everyone feel good.

4. Following the Rules

Games usually have rules to keep things fair and fun. Respecting those rules—and the people who enforce them, like teachers or monitors—helps prevent confusion and keeps things running smoothly.

5. Handling Conflicts Calmly

Sometimes, disagreements happen. Maybe someone doesn’t agree on a rule, or you feel someone was unfair. Instead of yelling or fighting, try talking it out or asking a teacher for help. Respecting each other’s feelings can turn problems into chances to learn and grow.

6. Taking Care of the Playground

Respect also means caring for the space and tools you’re using. Don’t break equipment, throw trash on the ground, or leave things behind. A clean and safe play area is better for everyone.

Being respectful during play time helps create a positive and safe environment. It means fewer fights, more fun, and stronger friendships. It also helps you become a person that others enjoy being around.

Respect isn’t just for the classroom—it’s for every part of school life. So next time you’re out playing, remember: have fun, be fair, and treat others with kindness. That’s how we all win at play time.

Resilience Project

Resilience Project

Resilience Survey Project 2025

  Dear Parents/Caregivers,

 Student resilience, mental health and wellbeing are key factors to ensure a happy and fulfilling future for our young people.

 This year as part of our commitment to the Resilience Project, we have chosen to partner with Resilient Youth Australia who have surveyed more than 900,000 Australian school students aged 8-18 and over 3,500 schools since 2013.

 We will administer the 2025 Survey this year online in class time during week 5, for all year 3-6 students.

 Students typically take 20-30 minutes to complete the survey.

 The Survey is completely voluntary and anonymous, and no individual student can be identified.

 The survey collects the self-reported resilience, mental health, and wellbeing of students and will provide us with valuable information to support key strengths and address challenges.

 The data from the survey is reported in aggregate descriptive form only, by year level and gender. 

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child’s participation in this survey project, please contact Fiona Pike on fpike@shmildura.catholic.edu.au. 

Learning Diversity

Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability (NCCD)

Every year, all schools in Australia participate in the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability (NCCD). The NCCD process requires schools to identify information already available in the school about supports provided to students with disability. These relate to legislative requirements under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and the Disability Standards for Education 2005, in line with the NCCD guidelines (2019).

Information provided about students to the Australian Government for the NCCD includes:

•         year of schooling
•         category of disability: physical, cognitive, sensory or social/emotional
•         level of adjustment provided: support provided within quality differentiated teaching practice, supplementary, substantial or extensive.

This information assists schools to:

•         formally recognise the supports and adjustments provided to students with disability in schools
•         consider how they can strengthen the support of students with disability in schools
•         develop shared practices so that they can review their learning programs in order to improve educational           outcomes for students with disability.

The NCCD provides state and federal governments with the information they need to plan more broadly for the support of students with disability.

The NCCD will have no direct impact on your child and your child will not be involved in any testing process. The school will provide data to the Australian Government in such a way that no individual student will be able to be identified – the privacy and confidentiality of all students is ensured. All information is protected by privacy laws that regulate the collection, storage and disclosure of personal information. To find out more about these matters, please refer to the Australian Government’s Privacy Policy (https://www.education.gov.au/privacy-policy).

Further information about the NCCD can be found on the NCCD Portal (https://www.nccd.edu.au).

If you have any questions about the NCCD, please contact the school. 

General News

Reminder - The second hand uniform shop is open during assembly times, w(this can be found in the stadium next to the stage) during assembly times - eftpos and cash welcome. You can place your order in advance using the link below. You will get a text message from the school when it is ready. 

SHEC -Sacred Heart Environmental Committee

This week we are looking at how we manage waste at Sacred Heart.  Students are preparing to teach their peers about the correct use of our bins.

Foundation News

Thank you to our Foundation families for the wonderful work you have been doing at home supporting your child to learn the alphabet sounds (phonemes) and completing their daily reading. It is important that the students consistently read (every night) to practise the decoding skills they have learnt at school. 

This week in class, we have started to work on division (share between), been practising the correct formation of our letters in writing (making sure they are the right way and starting at the correct spot) and using our phonemes (sounds) to write sentences. We completed our unit on The Changing Environment by making ‘Sun Shelters’ in Integrated Studies. In Religion, we have continued our learning about The Creation Story and where Catholic Christians might find God.

Today, your child has brought home updated sound and word fluency charts. These are important tools to help build automaticity and accuracy for reading. Please continue to practise them each night, either before or after your child’s reader. Just a few minutes each evening can make a big difference!

Reminders:

• Pupil Free day next Monday the 19th 
• All children should have headphones at school (named)
• School starts at 8:45am each day. If you are at school after 8:45am you must sign your child in at the office. 
• Your child’s library bag needs to be at school every day - kept in their school bag.
• Practise the sounds caterpillars and fluency chart each night.
• Read and record ‘Enhanced Comprehension’ and ‘Reader’ in the reading diary each night.
• Library books are to be returned a week after borrowing (or once your child has finished reading them)
• Sounds to continue practising with your child/ren at home: s, a, t, p, i, n, m, r, f, o, r, c, h (both reading and writing)

Year One News

This week in Literacy, we've had a busy time exploring a range of exciting concepts! We’ve been learning all about adjectives and how they help describe nouns. We've also been reading sentences that include the /oo/ sound and revising all our digraphs. Students have been working on reading and writing words, identifying homophones and reviewing different spelling choices for long vowel sounds. We’ve enjoyed reading together, practising our sounds, and doing some writing activities. We also explored plurals and wrote sentences using these plurals. To finish the week, we discovered what a suffix is and how it can change a word’s meaning.

Home Reading 

Just a reminder to try and listen to your child read for 10 minutes per night. Children's reading abilities and growth expand so much when they practise at home and consolidate their learning. Some students may bring home the same book more than once or are able to read every word correctly and that is absolutely fine. Reading the same book is a great way to enhance reading fluency and comprehension.

There are also lists of ‘tricky words’ in the back of each student's reading diary for your child to practise for extra support. Please continue to encourage your child to read and spell these ‘tricky words’ as well as complete some of the games to enhance their fluency, vocabulary and pronunciation.

National Simultaneous Storytime - 21st May 2025

Next Wednesday is NSS (National Simultaneous Storytime). NSS is held annually by the Australian Library and Information Association. Every year a picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator, is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, pre-schools and many other places around the country. Now in its 25th successful year, it is a colourful, vibrant, fun event that aims to promote the value of reading and literacy, using an Australian children's book that explores age-appropriate themes which addresses key learning areas of the National Curriculum for Foundation to Year 6. This year's story is ‘The Truck Cat’ by Deborah Frenkel and Danny Snell.

Show and Tell 

Week 5 - My favourite book, show or read your favourite page - linked with Book Fair. 

Year One Stayback

A reminder to please give consent for your child to attend our Year One Stayback on SIMON. We are all very excited.

Catholic Education Week 

Next week we celebrate Catholic Education Week. We invite all families and friends to attend the Catholic Education Week Combined Schools Mass at SJC Mercy Stadium, Eleventh Street, Mildura on Wednesday, 21st May 2025 @10am. 

As seating is limited please advise the school by Monday 19th of May if you plan to attend the Mass. 

We hope that everyone has a lovely weekend, 

Katrina and Brieanna

Year Two News

Today we commenced our Oral Language Assessment where some children shared their information about their Mum with the class during Show & Tell time. Unfortunately there are still many children who have not returned their interview sheet and therefore will find this presentation difficult without some pre discussion at home and notes. As this is our OL Assessment for Semester 1, all children will be required to participate in this activity so please encourage your child to practice at home prior. 

During our Writing to Learn sessions this week we have been focussing on using the conjunctions “because, but, so” in order to expand a simple sentence. We integrated this with reflecting on Our Favourite Season. Keep an eye out for these super sentences and illustrations on Seesaw next week.  

We have now reflected on the success of our Term 1 Learning Goals and created our new Term 2 Learning Goals. These have been displayed in our classrooms as a constant reminder and can be seen on your child’s Seesaw.

In our work with The Resilience Project, we have been learning about seeing things from another person’s perspective ie:”walking in their shoes”. We discussed what this meant, imagined how others might feel in different situations and explored ways to show empathy to support others. Children also spend some time each week thinking about their own healthy habits (Am I getting enough sleep? Did I have screen free time? Do I show empathy and gratitude?) as well as identifying their mood. Each day we also have a “GEM” chat (Gratitude, Empathy, Mindfulness. This week we have focused on Empathy and asked questions such as “What have you done to help out at school this week? How did it make you feel? Who made you feel cared for this week? What actions did they take?” We are finding that these questions are leading to some wonderful discussions and help the children to focus more on what it means to be grateful, mindful and empathetic.

Year Three News

Week Four has been another exciting and productive week of learning in Year Three!

In Humanities, we launched our first lesson on Country and Place, where students began exploring the concept of connection to Country. It was a thoughtful and engaging start to this important unit.

In Mathematics, students have been developing their subtraction skills with three-digit numbers, using a variety of strategies including the bar model, number line, and partitioning. Their problem-solving abilities are growing each day!

In Literacy, we focused on the correct placement of commas when using conjunctions, and students enjoyed applying this knowledge in their writing. Next week, we look forward to learning about transition words to help enhance the flow of our writing.

Next week we celebrate Catholic Education Week. We invite all families and friends to attend the Catholic Education Week Combined Schools Mass at SJC Mercy Stadium, Eleventh Street, Mildura on Wednesday, 21st May 2025 @10am. 

As seating is limited please advise the school by Monday 19th of May if you plan to attend the Mass. 

We hope that everyone has a lovely weekend, 

Jaimi and Sarah

Students will begin building their animal habitats for hibernation very soon! Please make sure your child has brought in boxes and resources they wish to use for this STEM project. 

Mrs Whitehouse

Year Four News

Students will begin building their animal habitats for hibernation very soon! Please make sure your child has brought in boxes and resources they wish to use for this STEM project. 

Mrs Whitehouse

Well done to Myalla on presenting their Assembly. It was great to see the support given by parents and special friends who came to watch. Thank you to those who brought something to share for our afternoon tea.

Our learning in Science  has focused on what living things depend on to survive. The students have done some wonderful learning about food chains and food webs as well as the importance of bees for the survival of all living things. 

In Maths we are continuing our learning of subtraction with renaming. Mary has been our focus in Religion. We have learnt about the Rosary and in particular, The Joyful Mysteries.

Enjoy your long weekend.

Natalee & Cathryn

Year Five News

This week we have nearly completed our Earth and Space Science learning. Students wrote MPOs about the Sun. The students have thoroughly enjoyed learning about our solar system. 

In Numeracy we have been learning a new game called “3 in a row.” It’s a great game for students to practice their times table. Perhaps challenge your child to a game at home!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQorRfkknO

During our Resilience Project Lessons we have been focusing on Mindfulness activities including  formal guided meditation, mindfulness colouring in pages and nature walks and observations. Students have reflected on the benefits, differences and similarities of different practices as well as consider how and when they can integrate them into their own lives.

Next week reminders:

• Monday - student free day
• Tuesday - selected students will participate in the SSV Interschool Sports for both Hockey and AFL 9s. We wish our teams all the best. 
• Wednesday- Catholic Education Week Mass at SJC Mercy Campus. Please make sure consent has been approved on SIMON. 
• Book Fair - all week

Have a great weekend!

Jacinda and Rachel

Year Six News

This week, our Year 6 students had the opportunity to take part in a CPR training session delivered by Angela and Graeme from Hands on Heart. The session was both engaging and informative, and our students responded with enthusiasm and focus throughout.

Reminders:

• Monday: Pupil-free day – no school for students.
• Tuesday: Selected students will represent Sacred Heart at both the Hockey and AFL 9s competitions. We wish them all the best!
• Mobile Phones: If students need to bring a mobile phone to school, it must be handed in at the office upon arrival every morning and collected on their way out of school.

In Cooinda:
Mrs Campbell will be on Long Service Leave for the next few weeks. During her absence, we welcome Mrs Emma Kotsiakos, who will be stepping in to teach Cooinda. If you need to contact Emma, her email is ekotsiakos@shmildura.catholic.edu.au 

Wishing everyone a restful long weekend!

Jo and Regan

Dates to Remember:

Monday 19th May - Pupil Free Day

Tuesday 20th May - SSV AFL 9’s and Hockey

Tuesday 27th May - Pupil Free Day

Performing Arts

The Eisteddfod is fast approaching and boy have we been rehearsing! 

Please see below our sections, dates and approximate times they will be performing.

Student Awards and Presentations

Students of the Week Awards

Congratulations to the following students on receiving our

ONE Agency, Positive Behaviour Awards!

Zahra Muhammed Nishil ~ Annie Fyfe ~ Carter Bush

Library

The Book Fair stock has arrived and is ready for next week! All classes have had a chance to look at the books that are available and write a wishlist to discuss with their families. 

This week students have been able to enter in the Book Fair Colouring Competition to try and win vouchers to spend at the Book Fair. 

Congratulations to the following winners;

Book Week Winners

Purchases will need to be made by an adult and via eftpos. 

There are items such as erasers and pens starting at $1, books starting from $5 with most being around $10 and craft activity kits starting at $20. 

Book Fair Opening Times: 

Week 5, Tuesday - Friday, 8:20-8:40 am and 3:00-3:30 pm.

As always, please contact me if you have any questions apacher@shmildura.catholic.edu.au

A sneak peak at some of the books that are available;

First Aid

First Aid

Important note in regards to concussions:
If a child has experienced concussion outside of the school setting it is important that they rest for a period of 24 to 48 hours and then gradually return to activities after this time. Returning to school can be a graduated approach with the aim of increasing tolerance to a full day, the same situation could occur with sporting activities. It is always important to check with your doctor and seek medical treatment after a child sustains a concussion.

It is important to inform the school if your child has sustained a concussion outside of school; this is to ensure the school can monitor your child’s wellbeing and adapt activities as required.

This factsheet link below from the Royal Children’s Hospital is valuable to read and understand.

https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Head_injury_return_to_school_and_sport/

There is also a great evidence-based app from the Murdoch children’s research institute that walks you through what to do in the result of a concussion.

https://www.headcheck.com.au/

Another reminder to keep your child's medical profile updated to ensure that we are able to best support them whilst they are here at school.

I thought I would share these easily accessible resources that may assist families at one point or another. These 2 podcast channels are fantastic and I access them from Spotify.

The Royal Childrens Hospital episodes are great and you hear from some very educated speakers. 

Royal Childrens Hospital - Kids Health Info

https://open.spotify.com/show/2K0EDmu0uN3eO6O30Rs9Gn?si=84ca3be565d14aaf

The Daily Minute Podcast delivers short and sharp information with updates on all things First Aid. 

First Aid Show Australia - Daily Minute 

https://open.spotify.com/show/5XnXtCqqx5aZ7of2iCpT9d?si=35d9d8bc92b140af

Happy listening!
Ebony Jones - First Aid Officer

Parent Information

School Uniform

It is the responsibility of the parents to ensure, that their children come to school wearing the correct uniform. If for some reason, particular items are not available on a given day, a note should be sent with the child, to eliminate any misunderstanding. 

School Uniform Requirements

Physical Education Uniform Days

Children can wear their sports uniform on their sport and Physical Education days.

Foundation

• Eumeralla Miss Hayley Moore - Thursday & Friday
• Minga Mrs Rebecca O’Callaghan - Tuesday & Friday 

Year One

• Yongana Miss Brieanna Galvin - Tuesday & Friday
• Amaroo Mrs Katrina Groves - Wednesday & Friday                             

Year Two  

• Mootwingee Mrs Chris Carmichael - Monday & Friday 
• Nangare Mrs Wendy Collins - Wednesday & Friday

Year Three

• Narooma Mrs Sarah Beckwith - Wednesday & Friday  
• Dourim Mrs Jaimi Willersdorf - Tuesday & Friday

Year Four

• Illawarra Mrs Natalee Johnson - Tuesday & Friday              
• Myalla Mrs Cathryn Rowles - Monday & Friday

Year Five

• Barramunga Mrs Jacinda Deacon - Monday & Friday
• Waminda Mrs Rachel Slimmon/Mr Jacob Burford - Wednesday & Friday                  

Year Six

• Cooinda Mrs Jo Campbell - Wednesday & Friday
• Wahroonga Mrs Regan Zaxos - Thursday & Friday

School Hats

It is school policy that hats should be worn from September 1st until May 1st whenever the children are outside at recess or lunch.  Outside these times the wearing of a school hat is based upon the forecast UV rating.  Foundation children have a light blue hat so that they are easy to identify in the playground.

Shoes

Parents are asked to give special attention to the shoes children wear to school.  The uniform regulations specify black leather shoes.  There are many styles on the market that fit this description, however parents are urged to avoid shoes that feature coloured stripes, logos or any other coloured decoration.  Unless specifically authorised, (e.g. on Physical Education days) sneakers are not to be worn.

Socks

Specific attention is also drawn to the colour of the socks to be worn as part of the general uniform: pale blue for girls, grey for boys.  Sacred Heart sports socks or plain white sports socks (with no logos or markings) are to be worn as part of the Physical Education uniform.

School Uniform Purchase

The Uniform Shop is run independently to the school through Totally Workwear. The shop is located at 87 Lime Ave, Mildura (Ph. 03 5021 4697). 

Second Hand Uniform Shop

The Parents and Friends (P&F) operate a Second Hand Uniform shop. Opening hours are usually during our School Assembly times. All items for sale are donated and all proceeds go directly to the P&F to support our school.  An order form is placed on our website https://www.shmildura.catholic.edu.au/school-uniform .

School Bags

School bags with the school emblem printed on them are available for purchase from Totally Workwear but are not compulsory.

Library Bags

All students require a Sacred Heart Library Bag (ordered through Totally Workwear) which is used to protect books borrowed from school as well as newsletters and other correspondence.

Lost Property

Please label ALL UNIFORM ITEMS with your child’s name. Lost property can be retrieved from breezeway between the courtyard and Olive Grove and if left unclaimed, will be donated to the second hand uniform shop.

Hair, Jewellery, Nail Polish & Make-Up

Students should keep their hair neat and tidy. Long hair that may cover the eyes must be tied back in a ponytail, plait, or similar style—this applies to both boys and girls. Hair accessories should be in the school colors: pale blue or navy blue.

 Jewellery is generally not part of the school uniform, with a few exceptions:

• Earrings: Only plain studs (no glitter or dangling styles), with one stud per earlobe. No other piercings are allowed.
• Religious Medals: May be worn on a chain or pin but must be safe for play.

Nail polish and make-up are not allowed as part of the school uniform.

Arriving and Leaving Safely

Kiss & Go

To help keep everyone safe during drop-off and pick-up please take note of the following rules at Kiss and Go and the School Crossing that should be followed both in the morning (8:10-8:45am) and afternoon (3pm-3:30pm):

• Stay in your vehicle unless you need to assist younger students with their seat belts.
• Aim to keep your car in the Kiss & Go area for a maximum of two minutes to allow others to use the space too.
• Access the Kiss & Go only from Olive Grove, not 12th Street.
• Please refrain from dropping off students outside of cars in Olive Grove.
• Avoid performing U-turns within the Kiss & Go area.
• For your safety, use the school crossing if you need to cross 12th Street.


Thanks for helping us keep our school safe for everyone!

Pick Up and Drop Off Points

In the mornings, the Olive Grove gate will remain closed, so students and visitors can only enter through the 12th Street or Tamarisk Grove gates. After school, only the Olive Grove gate near the Art House will be open and supervised by a staff member. This change aims to enhance student and traffic safety.

Please ensure you find a suitable and permissible parking spot for your car in order to use these locations.

Riding Scooters & Bikes

Certain students walk, ride bikes, or scooters to school and are requested to use either the 12th Street entrance or the Tamarisk Grove entrance at the rear of the oval. Riding into or through the school grounds is not permitted.

Collect Children from School Grounds

Feel free to come into school to pick up your child directly from their classroom. It's an excellent opportunity to meet other parents, have casual conversations with teachers, and ensure your child is organised at the end of the day. If you choose this option, please park appropriately and be outside the classroom by the 3.10 bell; otherwise, your child will be directed to the supervised Kiss and Go area. Students and young siblings should refrain from using the playground equipment.

School Crossings

Students walking home are advised to use the school crossings on Twelfth Street, Walnut Avenue and Eleventh Street to safely avoid heavily trafficked roads. All crossings are supervised by a School Crossing Supervisor, and it's crucial to follow their directions.  We also encourage parents to model expected behaviours by using the School Crossings also.

Buses

Several of our students catch buses home from the St. Joseph’s bus stop on 11th Street. Each day a teacher gathers these children together and accompanies them to the bus stop to supervise until they are all safely on the bus.

Drop Off Times

Preferred 'Drop Off' Time: 8.25 - 8.45 am. For safety reasons, please refrain from dropping off students before 8.19 am, as there is no supervision provided.  Our gates open at this time.

Pick Up Times

Recommended 'Pick Up' Time: 3.10 - 3.25 PM. While we understand occasional delays, if regular or extending beyond 3.30 PM, please consider enrolling your child/ren in After School Care.

Walking or Riding Home

If your children walk or ride home or to your workplace after school, please submit written permission authorising them to leave unaccompanied. They must exit through the main 12th Street gate or accompany the 11th Street bus group through Tamarisk Grove.

Alternative Pick Up Places

For safety, we strongly advise against arrangements where children wait unsupervised at public pick-up locations like Walnut Avenue or St Joseph’s College.

EATING AND DRINKING AT SCHOOL

Healthy Eating

To sustain learning and promote healthy eating we encourage students to bring to school predominantly healthy food choices.

Brainfood

Students have a brain food break during the morning to keep children’s brains fuelled for learning. We ask that families send an extra fresh fruit or vegetable snack for children to have during this time. When sending the snack, please pack it separately from your child’s lunch in a small, named container so it can be placed on their desk each morning.

Lunch Snack

The main meal of the school day; a sandwich or roll, a salad or a slice of quiche. A healthy ‘treat’ may also be appropriate here that is healthy and gives long-term energy.  Lunch is eaten usually in the classroom from 11:25am-11:40am.

Recess Snack

We encourage parents to pack fresh fruit or vegetables in your child’s recess snack box.  You may like to pack one or two other snack items for them at this time.  This snack is eaten at 1:40pm.

Packing Food

 The school has a bank of refrigerators for the storage of students’’ food. For the ease of packing and unloading the fridges, we ask that parents provide separate, small, well-labelled containers or zip-lock bags for their child’s recess snack and lunch. Insulated ‘puffy’ lunchboxes and ice-blocks are not required.

School Canteen

Our School Canteen operates on a Wednesday and Friday and provides a range of lunch options at low cost.    The current menu and prices can be accessed through and ordered via the CDFpay.  This app is powered by Flexischools and  you will need to create an account.  Please download the CDF Pay App and ensure you create an account (the previous CDFPay doesn't transfer over to the app).

OFFICE INFORMATION

Office Hours

Office hours will run from 8:20am to 4:00pm every day. Phone calls can be made starting at 8:00 am.

Change of Personal Details

If there are any changes to your contact details (address/phone number/emergency contacts), kindly inform the office by calling 50231204, emailing office@shmildura.catholic.edu.au, or visiting the office in person.

Simon Everywhere and Parent Access Module (PAM)

Simon Everywhere is an App for smart phones that allows parents to access all information relating to their child/ren such as reports, attendance and much more. It also allows you to update medical information, give permission for excursions, access teacher emails and also receive notifications from the school.

For parents familiar with PAM, the new App works mostly the same as PAM and you can still access PAM through the web site: pam.shmildura.catholic.edu.au, however the app has additional functionality such as Push notifications and the ability to sign in without having to enter your username and password each time.

1. Go to the App Store or Google Play Store and search Simon Everywhere
2. Download and open the App and Allow Notifications
3. Enter your name and phone number and press verify, you will receive a code via SMS
4. Click on 'Add School'
5. Select Sacred Heart Primary School, Mildura - Parent Access
6. Enter your PAM username and password. If you do not know your credentials, please call the school.

7. Click on the Home icon.
   

Simon everywhere works best when notifications are turned on. You can check the notifications setting on your phone to be sure by going to the Settings – Notifications – Then find the Simon Everywhere App.

Sickness at School

Children with severe colds, flus, or other debilitating illnesses must stay at home. Do not send the child if they have:

• Fever: Children with a fever over 38 degrees should stay home.
• Prescribed antibiotics: Keep a child at home for at least 24 hours if prescribed antibiotics for an acute illness.
• Diarrhea: Children with watery stool should return only after being symptom-free for at least 24 hours.
• Vomiting: Children who are vomiting should stay home until at least 24 hours after it has stopped.

After School Care

After School Care is available for Sacred Heart students and is located on our school grounds.  Camp Australia run this program for students from Sacred Heart Primary School and St Paul's Primary School.  The program runs from the Art House building which is located on Olive Grove.

Sacred Heart families can make use of the Camp Australia After-School Care Program that is held on the grounds of Sacred Heart.  The service is available from 3:10pm through to 6pm on school days.  A healthy snack is provided to children.  Registration needs to be done through the Camp Australia website www.campaustralia.com.au .  Further information can be obtained by calling 1300 105 343.  Each day the office will print out a list of students attending Out of Hours School Care and notify the students at the end of the day via the announcements.

Marking Child’s Absence 

1. Log into the App - SimonEverywhere or login via PAM (type pam.shmildura.catholic.edu.au in your address bar).
2. You can either log by clicking on the large blue calendar section that says Parent Notified Absences or you can click on the 3 menu lines at the top right-hand side of your screen. NOTE: On your phone it will appear below your child/ren’s name.
3. You will then need to click the blue + Add Absence button circled below
4. Then select your child, and in reason

If your family is going on an extended family holiday. Please contact the school to inquire about an Student Absence Learning Plan.

School Day

• 8:19 am - Gates open & students can access Courtyard
• 8:34 am - Access Courtyard and play on Oval (classrooms opening optional for teachers)
• 8.49 am - School day begins - classroom open
• 8:55 am - School starts.
• 9.55 am - Brain Break
• 10:55 am - Lunch Play
• 11.25 am - Lunch Eat
• 1.40 pm - Recess 
• 2.10 pm - Recess Finishes
• 3.10 pm - School finishes

Sports Uniform Days

Foundation

• Eumeralla Miss Hayley Moore - Thursday & Friday
• Minga Mrs Rebecca O’Callaghan - Tuesday & Friday 

Year One

• Yongana Miss Brieanna Galvin - Tuesday & Friday
• Amaroo Mrs Katrina Groves - Wednesday & Friday                             

Year Two  

• Mootwingee Mrs Chris Carmichael - Monday & Friday 
• Nangare Mrs Wendy Collins - Wednesday & Friday

Year Three

• Narooma Mrs Sarah Beckwith - Wednesday & Friday  
• Dourim Mrs Jaimi Willersdorf - Tuesday & Friday

Year Four

• Illawarra Mrs Natalee Johnson - Tuesday & Friday              
• Myalla Mrs Cathryn Rowles - Monday & Friday

Year Five

• Barramunga Mrs Jacinda Deacon - Monday & Friday
• Waminda Mrs Rachel Slimmon/Mr Jacob Burford - Wednesday & Friday               

Year Six

• Cooinda Mrs Jo Campbell - Wednesday & Friday
• Wahroonga Mrs Regan Zaxos - Thursday & Friday