St Kieran Newsletter Term 1, Week 8 - 21st March 2024

Principal's Message

God of goodness, God of surprises,  
send angels of inspiration to guide and enlighten as you did Mary.  
Awaken us again to our true calling, our true mission:  
to walk with you on the paths laid out to us.  
Teach us to listen for you in every corner of our lives, 
and to await your messengers in the most unexpected situations and conditions.  
We ask this prayer in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ.  
Amen. 

The Apostle Nathaniel, better known as Bartholomew, asked the question, “Can any good come out of Nazareth?”, which was the home town of Mary, the Mother of God. Nathaniel’s comment was recorded in John’s Gospel: “Philip found Nathaniel and told him, ‘We have found the one Moses wrote about in the book of the Law and whom the prophets also wrote about. He is Jesus, son of Joseph from Nazareth’. ‘Can anything good come from Nazareth?’ Nathaniel asked.” John 1:45,46.  

It was through the angel Gabriel that God began his conversation with Mary, “Hail, Mary, full of grace”. Likewise, with us it is God who begins the conversation and, as with Mary, often in unexpected ways. We are surprised to find ourselves moved by such events as a spectacular sunset, a precious rainbow, an unexpected phone call from a friend. In our emotional responses in particular, we are surprised to experience God’s presence through something outside of ourselves, something we find difficult to describe.  

The Feast of the Annunciation can be a time for us to review how we are progressing in our life as a Christian, since we said our “yes” to God in Confirmation. With our “yes” to God’s presence in our lives, we were asked to nurture the word of God within us and bring Christ into the world, not in the same way as Mary, but by our own personal situation. By using our own personal gifts and talents, we are asked to bring Christ into the lives of others.  

Being true or faithful to our calling to follow Christ, is no easy matter. It would have been easy for Mary to have run away, either literally or emotionally, but instead she positioned herself before God and declared herself open to God’s unexpected intervention in her life. For us, the challenge is the same: not to run away from our Christian commitment but to stay true and open to God’s conversation with us.  

God comes to us through the familiar daily routine of our lives and commitments, asking us to see in them the raw material for personal spiritual growth. As we respond with simplicity and openness to God, who is forever coming to us, we associate ourselves with Mary whose response was: “Here am I, the servant of the Lord. Let it be with me according to your word.” Luke 1:38  

As we continue in this Lenten season, let us recognise where God is calling each of us. Let us follow the path of Mary, asking God to turn our fear into faith believing that our efforts contribute to the dream God has for the world. We can do great things through him when we say ‘yes’ to his plan for us.  

https://www.neurodiversityweek.com/ 

 This week is also Neurodiversity Week and when it comes to inclusion, neurodiversity refers to a world where neurological differences are recognised and respected as all other human variations. 

 Depending on how our brains are wired we think, move, process information and communicate in different ways. Many people in our community use neurodiversity as an umbrella term used to describe alternative thinking styles such as Dyslexia, DCD (Dyspraxia), Dyscalculia, Autism and ADHD. But regardless of labels, neurodiversity is about recognising those who think differently. And no matter whether you are a school, university or organisation you can benefit from different thinkers! 

 Approximately 15-20% of population has a neurological difference. Instead of labelling people with deficits or disorders, when we use the term neurodiversity, we take a balanced view of an individual’s unique strengths and challenges. Many ‘challenges’ neurodivergent people face are more to do with the environment and systems they are placed in, often designed by a majority population. 

 We have put the link to the website above so in you can all have a further look into this later on and maybe even have a chat as a family about this may mean and how you can help others. 

Best wishes and take care. 

Mr Daine Burnett 
Principal 
daine.burnett@cewa.edu.au 

School Calendar

A reminder to all families to continue to check the school calendar on our website for dates and events that are coming up during the term. We conclude Term 1 on Thursday 28th March and return to school for all students on Tuesday 16th April to start Term 2. 

Student Attendance

As part of the guidelines for student attendance, staff will be sending out emails to parents to make you aware of any attendance concerns we currently have. At anytime a students attendance is below 90% they are missing substantial amounts of the curriculum which will hinder their potential to be successful learners. 

Kindergarten Enrolments 2025

We are accepting Kindy Enrolment's for Kindy 2025 and later this term start organising interviews. Please don’t leave this until the last minute as we have many people we could not accommodate in 2024. Please submit your application and make sure you have your children enrolled at St Kieran Catholic Primary School.

Easter Raffle Donations and Ticket Sales

We are now collecting donations for the Easter Raffle. Please bring all donations to the front office. Easter Raffle tickets will be on sale in the undercover area before and after school. $1.00 a ticket. All money raised will go to Caritas and Project Compassion. The raffle will be drawn on the last day of term.  

https://www.caritas.org.au/project-compassion/ 

Perth Redbacks

The Redbacks club will be running a before school basketball program in Term 2. This program will cater to new beginners and experienced players wanting to learn new skills and develop their understanding of the basic fundamentals involved in the sport. The players can expect there to be plenty of fun activities, skills drills and competitive games. 

Start date/ Duration 
The 8 week program will commence on the 2nd May with the final session being completed on the 20th June. This will be every Thursday morning from 7:20 - 8:10 am. 

What to wear/bring 
Please ensure your child is wearing their school sports uniform, hats, and appropriate sporting shoes (running or basketball shoes). They will also need to bring their drink bottles to the sessions. Sports equipment will be supplied, but all the players are more than welcome to bring their own basketball. 

Fees/Registration 
The registration fee will be $80.00 (GST excl) per participant for the full term program. Please complete the registration through the following link: https://www.playhq.com/basketball-wa/register/c4b0ab  

I look forward to seeing you all next term. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions. 

Denzel Jackson
denzel@perthredbacks.asn.au 

Parking

Unfortunately this seems to be an ongoing concern and while many families do the right thing for everyone it continues to create frustrations for many. The school staff do not have the legal ability to enforce parent driving behaviours, however if you are putting a child at risk by not following our very simple instructions we will follow up with you and address this.  

1. DO NOT turn right into the Kiss and Drive - please wait your turn in the queue. 
2. Do NOT overtake the queue and push in front of the Kiss and Drive line. Be respectful of others. 
3. Keep the Corner of Tyler Street and Morgans Street free from all traffic. 
4. DO NOT pick up or drop your child off on the road outside of the administration - find a parking legal bay or use the Kiss and Drive. 
5. If you DO Not have an ACROD Permit please don’t use the disabled bays. 
6. Ciaran Centre Families are the only families welcome to use the front administration parking. 
7. DO NOT park at the Servite Friars house of residence and business - this is private property. 

I do ask that families don’t use the Acrod Bays unless they have permit - we now have a large number of families that need these bays and recently have not been able to access these. Ciaran Centre families are more than welcome to use the bays at the front of the school as well. 

Kieran Connect

We all know the hardest thing to find in our busy world is time. If you think you can spare some of this time, Kieran Connect would love some extra members. If you are interested in having a positive impact and helping out our school please contact Mr Burnett or kieranconnect@stkieran.wa.edu.au 

Traffic Crossing - Crosswalk Attendant

We continue to be without our wonderful cross walk attendant Danny, as he has been directed to assist at another site. We have made a number of attempts to try and find a solution but as there is a shortage of staff for this role it is proving to be difficult. 

If any of our community members would like to explore the possibility of becoming a relief traffic warden please make contact with the office and we can direct you down the correct path for training and further information. 

Feast of the Annunciation Mass

The Feast of the Annunciation celebrates the time that Mary said 'Yes' to the Angel Gabriel to being the mother of Jesus Christ. This day is celebrated on April the 8th. Since students and teachers are on holidays on this day, we will be coming together as a faith community to celebrate this Feast day on Friday (22 March) at St Kieran Parish.  

Holy Week

Next week, Week 9, is the most important time in our faith tradition. Holy Week, which commemorates the events leading up to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, holds deep spiritual meaning for many within our school community. It offers us an opportunity for introspection, gratitude, and renewal as we journey through the profound teachings and narratives of this pivotal moment in Christian faith. 

During this week, our school will be fostering an environment that encourages both students and faculty to engage in meaningful activities, reflection and discussion surrounding the themes of sacrifice, forgiveness, and redemption. Through various activities and discussions, we aim to instil in our students a deeper understanding of the values that underpin Holy Week and their relevance in our lives today. 

As valued members of our school family, we warmly invite you to participate in this journey of spiritual enrichment. Whether through engaging in conversations at home, or simply taking a moment for personal contemplation, your support is appreciated. 

May this Holy Week be a time of profound meaning and spiritual growth for each of us, as we come together to honour and reflect upon the enduring message of faith, hope, and love. 

First Eucharist (First Holy Communion)

As per the communication that went out during the week, our First Eucharist Mass has been brought forward by a week. The Masses will now be celebrated on June 8 and June 9. 

Packed With Goodness Session

St Kieran Parish

Dear Parents/Guardian,

On Good Friday the 29th March at 10 am, we will be doing the Stations of the Cross, starting off at the Church and proceeding to the Shrine of St Kieran’s.  
Each year, we have the children trained to do the enact of the stations.   Which has always been a  beautiful event and a great experience for all.
Practices takes place on 26th, 27th and 28th of March 3:30 to 4:30 pm at the St Kieran’s church.  This can also be counted towards your child’s community service in preparation for Sacraments of Reconciliation, Eucharist  and Confirmation.

You don’t need to do any bookings, please turn up on the day to the Church.

Thanks – Fr Wilson

Aranmore Catholic College 2025 Scholarships

Aranmore Catholic College is pleased to announce applications for 2025 scholarships are now open.

Our scholarships are designed to recognise and support students who exhibit dedication to academic excellence, excellence in sports or music, leadership potential, and a commitment to serving their community. Whether you excel in academics, STEM, Rugby, Netball, music, or community service, there is a scholarship opportunity available for you.

Scholarships at Aranmore not only provide financial assistance but also offer unique opportunities for personal and academic growth under the guidance and care of highly qualified specialist teachers. Don't miss this chance to pursue your educational dreams and make a positive impact on our community.

For more information on eligibility criteria and how to apply, please visit our website www.aranmore.wa.edu.au. 

Footy at Stirling Junior Footy Club

Come Join our Teams!

Stirling Junior Football Club are recruiting more players for its Year 4 & Year 6 boys teams and Year 5/6 girls team.

If you’re considering playing football, come and try out with our teams.

Year 4 boys train every Tuesday from 5pm.
Year 6 boys train every Tues & Thurs from 5pm.
Year 5/6 girls train every Tuesday from 5.15pm @ Richard Guelfi Reserve, Balcatta.

No experience necessary. Come and have some fun with a great bunch of kids while getting some physical exercise at the same time.
Click on the QR Code for more information.

John Forrest Secondary College - Specialist Sports Programs 2025