Cast your care on God - He cares for you

This week our wonderful Year 6 students are exploring Canberra. As Mrs Smith has joined them for this learning adventure, I have been given the privilege of writing to you today.

Over the holidays, my family watched the movie, ‘True Spirit’ which recounts the story of Jessica Watt and her attempt to circumnavigate the world in a yacht at the age of 16.

Our family sat on the edge of our seats as Jessica endured and overcame all the trials of unforgiving seas, broken equipment, and extreme loneliness. There were countless times she had to draw on her training, support crew (via satellite phone), and sheer determination to solve problems just to survive.

As I reflected on the enormity of Jessica’s trip, it was evident that even though she had a goal, she didn’t achieve it on her own. She had her family and sailing community to help.

There may be times in our lives when we feel alone and isolated. We can tell ourselves that no one understands what we are going through and try to soldier on through life on our own, but God didn’t create us to be alone. He wants us to support and help each other. The Bible says in Galatians 6:2, “Carry one another’s burden; in this you will fulfill the law of Christ”. In Primary school, we constantly remind our students to speak to a teacher if they are feeling worried or hurt and we will always help them. There is power in asking for help as it takes away the notion that we are alone, and no one will understand what we are going through. We can also take comfort in knowing that God is with us, and we can cast all our cares on Him, because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).

If you are facing a challenge in your life, can I encourage you to reach out to a family member, friend or GPCC staff member. We consider everyone in our school community as special and are more than willing to be a listening ear.

Year 6 in Canberra

This week our Year 6 students have been busy in Canberra learning, exploring, building relationships, and growing in their understanding of Australia. 

The group visited the Museum of Australian Democracy, sat in the Senate in Old Parliament House, and had a hands on experience of the voting process in the Electoral Commission. They walked ANZAC parade, visited the National Museum, the National Gallery, and learnt lots at the Dinosaur Museum. 

The AIS and Questacon were big hits as the students were able to participate in physical and hands on activities.

They also visited Parliament House where they got to witness the senate in action as the politicians were sitting this week, and participate in a mock parliament passing a bill.

All round is was a great trip. 

Winter Uniform

Students may begin to wear the winter uniform from Monday 15 May. This is the first Monday after Mother’s Day. During the winter months, trousers are no longer compulsory for winter uniform and boys have been given the choice to wear shorts if the weather is suitable. During terms 2 and 3, our hat policy in Primary is relaxed and students are not required to wear their hats our into the playground as the UV level is below 3. Girls may continue to wear the Skort throughout winter and can wear black stocking/tights underneath for warmth.

A reminder that the soft-shell jacket is for sale in the uniform shop and is an excellent source for warmth as an outer garment. If students are cold, they can wear the red jumper under the soft-shell jacket. Students are not permitted to wear hoodies or jumpers other that what is described in the policy.

Updating Bus Details on Parent Lounge

It is very helpful for the college to know which bus your child catches to and/or from school. This information can assist staff know where students are and is especially helpful in an emergency. Please make sure your child's bus details are up to date on Parent Lounge.  

The one-minute video below shows you how to add or update bus details.

Please log into Parent Lounge, go to the Student Details menu, then click on Transport – Busways/Red Bus, then Update icon and select bus numbers from the drop-down menu and Submit Changes.

Wondersoft Bread Recycling Rewards Program

Please remember to fill your empty bread bags with other bread bags and bring them into school. Bags can then be dropped into the large PINK boxes outside Mrs Reynolds room (L1) or near the Kindergarten rooms. More bags means more sports equipment for our school!

More information: https://wonder.com.au/wonder-recycling-rewards