Class Formation for 2021

The lengthy process of class formation for 2021 will commence in earnest when we return to school in Term 4.

This process involves the current class teachers preparing draft lists for next year’s classes. This process takes into consideration the academic, social, emotional and physical needs of each individual student. Decisions are made to establish balanced, equitable class groups with the potential to work well together. As the teachers know the students within the school environment exceptionally well, the best interests of each individual student is always considered during the discernment process.

Parents are invited annually to contribute to the process of class formation by informing us, in writing, of any special needs that may affect class placement. Written requests can be submitted either through the class teacher or via an email to info@olhcdow.catholic.edu.au marked as the subject – "2021 Class Formation" during Weeks 1 to 4 in Term 4.

It is important to note that whilst parental requests are considered, there is never a guarantee that these requests will be granted. If parents make a request, particularly about their child being placed within a friendship group, please be aware that there may be circumstances surrounding such requests that may prevent it from being granted. All requests are considered when classes are constructed and must be provided prior to classes being finalised.

Please note that these requests need to made for Years Three, Five and Six 2021 as all other classes are single stream and will remain as the class group.

Students Not Returning in 2021

If parents are already aware that their child/ren will not be returning to OLHC in 2021, we request that this information be provided to Mrs Cantrill and Mrs Hole in the school office as soon as possible. This information will assist us with accommodating new applications.

Uniform Labelling

The holiday period is a wonderful opportunity to renewal labels on all pieces of your child’s uniform. I completely understand parental frustration regarding lost and missing items.

Please ensure all uniform pieces are clearly labelled with your child’s name using permanent marker in a prominent place. Students should know where their name is marked for easy checking. Please encourage your child to place all items straight into their bag rather than leaving them on the playground or in the classroom.  

When we return for the commencement of Term 4 all students will need to be wearing full summer uniform.

Supporting Student Learning: Replenishing Equipment for the New School Term

As we approach the upcoming holidays, parents are asked to ensure that their child’s pencil case and school supplies are replenished. Having everything at their fingertips each day aids in the learning process allowing children to focus on the task at hand rather than worrying about not having the equipment to complete the task.

Also, as we approach Term 4 it is important that the students continue to wear full school uniform until the end of the year. It may be a good idea to check your child’s uniform, including school hat, school shoes and joggers, to make sure that they will all ‘last the distance’. This is particularly important for Year 6 students.

Parent Action: Check that your child’s school equipment is replenished. Make sure that students’ equipment and uniform are clearly labelled.

Staffing News

As we draw towards the end of the third term I wanted to let you know some staffing information for Term 4 and 2021.

Next term, Mrs Eileen Shaw, who is currently in a Learning Support role for three days per week, will be taking Long Service Leave. We wish Mrs Shaw a most enjoyable time of rest and renewal during this leave.

Next term, we also welcome back Mrs Danielle Dew who will be returning from maternity leave with her first child, Harrison. We warmly welcome Mrs Dew back to OLHC.  Mrs Dew will be fulfilling the Learning Support role vacated by Mrs Shaw for the remainder of the school year.

Mr Alister Marshall has been successful in obtaining a permanent teaching position from 2021 at Mary Immaculate Primary School in Eagle Vale. We thank Mr Marshall for the way that he has enriched and contributed to the OLHC community over the past two years and wish him all the best for the future.

We are certainly blessed at OLHC to have passionate educators who are involved in contributing to the ongoing education of our students. We are grateful to all our staff for the contributions they make on a daily basis to making a difference to the lives of our students.

Positive Behaviours for Learning (PB4L)