Dear Parents, 

Hearing the voice and ideas of our parents is important to us. An effective and professional way of doing this is through a School Advisory Committee who meet regularly to discuss the happenings of our school. In 2024 we require three additional parents to join our committee.

The purpose and responsibilities of committee members is outlined below. If you or someone you know is interested in joining this committee, please fill in the nomination forms available at the school office and return by Wednesday 13th March. In the result that we have multiple nominations a parent vote will decide the makeup of the committee.

School Advisory Committee Purpose
The purposes of the School Advisory Committee are to: 

• act as an advisory body to the principal on matters concerning education in the school

• act as a forum for discussion on matters concerning education in the school

• provide a link between the parish priest, principal, teachers and parishioners in relation to the provision of Catholic education in the parish community 

• promote community development by fostering a strong inter-relationship between the parish, the primary school and Catholic secondary colleges.School 

School Advisory Committee Responsibilities
The responsibilities of the School Advisory Committee are to: 

• promote the Catholic ethos of the school 

• provide feedback on and review of school policies 

• plan for the future of the school and its ability to accommodate future enrolments 

• provide advice on budget planning and finance-related matters 

• provide advice on the appropriate provision of faith development and Religious Education programs 

• promote child safety in the school

Wellbeing Barometer Survey

A reminder to all parents about the Wellbeing Barometer survey outlined in our last newsletter. This survey is anonymous and provides information to our school into the state of youth mental health and wellbeing.

Participating in this year's survey, will assist in identifying areas of strength and concern, as well as pinpointing opportunities for early intervention.

This survey is part of an ongoing, longitudinal study, with the results being instrumental in tailoring support for students and their families. Participation is strongly encouraged, as it provides a comprehensive view of students' experiences, challenges, and achievements over the past year. Its aim is to capture a comprehensive picture of young people's lives, allowing for a tailored approach to enhance mental and emotional wellbeing.

Here is the link to the survey https://stangelawarragul.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-wellbeing-barometer-20

NAPLAN

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) for Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 students are held in March each year. In 2024, the NAPLAN test window is between Wednesday 13 March and Monday 25 March. 

NAPLAN tests assess student knowledge and skills in writing, reading, conventions of language (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and numeracy. The results of the tests provide information for students, parents/carers, teachers and principals and can be used to improve student achievement.

NAPLAN tests are delivered in an online format. This delivers many benefits including:

• a ‘tailored test’ design that adapts to correct and incorrect student responses providing a more precise understanding of student achievement;

• innovative use of technology, including a more engaging test design and a wider range of item types;

• an extended and more flexible test window, allowing schools greater opportunity to schedule the tests at times that suit them best and increasing student participation.

All eligible students are expected to participate in the NAPLAN tests. Catch up tests will be available for individual students who are absent on test days up to and including Monday 25 March 2024.

Support can be arranged for students with disabilities if the student regularly uses similar support for classroom assessment tasks.

Exemptions may be granted to students with significant intellectual disabilities and to students who have been learning English for less than one year. 

If your child is eligible for support due to disability or exemption, you should discuss this with their teacher prior to the tests. Parental consent is required before any support due to disability or exemption is granted.

Students may be withdrawn from NAPLAN by their parent or carer. This is a matter for consideration by parents and carers in consultation with the principal. If, after consultation, you decide to withdraw your child, you must sign a student withdrawal form. These forms are available at the school.

For more information about the tests, please visit the VCAA website at: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au or the NAP website at: www.nap.edu.au