Newman Newbies: From the Head of Primary
Mitchell Bristow, Head of Primary
Teachers work tirelessly to develop social and emotional skills in each student, to help them understand the core concepts of Literacy and Numeracy, to engage them through the Vision for Learning, Shine through Discovery and grow them in their faith. This occurs every day and is a remarkable feat. One challenge that we must work in partnership with parents, is building student independence. This is a critical skill that will support them in all of their future pursuits. It is a fine balance between letting them take on challenges by themselves, supporting them without “doing” it for them and helping them bounce back when they make mistakes. As a PK-12 College, we continually challenge our students to become independent learners, independent individuals and confident young men and women.
Fitness Friday and Coffee at the College
This term the College launched a new initiative at the Marian Campus (Pre Kindy – Year 2), Fitness Friday. Every Friday students can enjoy a selection of activities including Lego Club, Cosmic Yoga, Running Club and Dance Aerobics. Fitness Friday coincides with another new community engagement initiative, Coffee at the College. The College is continually looking for ways to create opportunities for parents to interact, contribute and belong to the extended Newman College community.
Years 3-6 Eco Ninjas
Last year a group of dedicated students formed a sustainability committee called the Eco Ninjas on the Lavalla Campus (Years 3-6 Campus). The team have been working to improve the campus by reducing waste, growing vegetables and to inform students about sustainability and the environment. The Ninjas have recently received a Woolworths Junior Landcare Grant of $1000 and look forward to using these funds to continue to improve our school.
Homework Club
Homework Club takes place every Monday from 3.15pm – 4.30pm for students in Years 3-6. Students have the opportunity to complete work, work with teachers and complete their homework.
CoderDojo Club
CoderDojo is held every Tuesday from 3.15pm – 4.30pm. This coding club brings together students from Years 3-12 and are taught how to code and program.
IPSHA Swimming Carnival
On Thursday 21 March, Newman College hosted the Independent Primary School Heads of Australia (IPSHA) Swimming Carnival. Students in Years 4-6 competed against other Catholic Primary Schools and represented the College with pride while demonstrating excellent teamwork and sportsmanship.
IPSHA conduct a series of sporting carnivals for students in Years 3-6 with the focus on participation. There are no shields or points awarded. It is about giving students the opportunity to compete against students from other primary schools, promoting fun and enjoyment, encouraging everyone to participate and highlighting the importance of fair play and healthy competition.
