Last Day of Term 3

I was spraying some weeds the other day and was reminded of something I often see, but seldom notice. Plants and trees can be really determined to grow. Have you ever noticed how plants and weeds spring up in the tiniest crevices of the paving or concrete around the place?

I enjoy spending time in the Australian outback and I am constantly amazed at the ability of trees to grow in a tiny crack in a rock in the most inhospitable situations.

Those situations speak to me about the value of determination in our lives, and the importance of developing determination in our children. I quite like the American Psychological Association definition of determination as, “a mental attitude characterized by a strong commitment to achieving a particular goal despite barriers and hardships.”

One way we can help develop this with our kids is by taking examples from their own experiences when they find something challenging. That may be in the academic area, or friendships or sport, or family . . . any part of life really, and helping them work out ways of working towards a goal in spite of how challenging it might be. It could be that we share events from our own lives or other family members' experiences. Another way is to read stories to them of people who have shown determination and then discuss it. If you would like a place to start, try googling the story of Derek Redmond in the 400 metre semi-final at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

The Bible is full of wonderful references to determination in our lives, I think because it is such an important part of how we can live our best.

“You've all been to the stadium and seen the athletes race. Everyone runs; one wins. Run to win. All good athletes train hard. They do it for a gold medal that tarnishes and fades. You're after one that's gold eternally. I don't know about you, but I'm running hard for the finish line. I'm giving it everything I've got. No sloppy living for me! I'm staying alert and in top condition. I'm not going to get caught napping, telling everyone else all about it and then missing out myself.” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

I hope the school break for the next couple of weeks provides some wonderful family time and opportunities for time spent with your kids.

Mark B

So how are you using your words?

Over the past few weeks, we have been exploring how words have the power to be constructive or destructive, to heal or to hurt, to build-up or tear down and to comfort or criticize a person. When we are placed in situations where we want to react badly, running our words is often our first response. So, before you choose to use your words to hurt others, stop and think. Do you really mean it or are you just angry? Are these words going to have an implication on the person life? 

A parents guide to surviving school holidays

School holidays can be a great time to hop out of routine and reconnect with children. For many children it’s also a very necessary break after a very busy term. While some parents love school holidays, there are also families that approach them with dread. Aside from keeping one (or a mob) of hungry, tired, easily bored children busy, there is also the challenge of staying on top of all those other responsibilities that don’t stop too.

A positive holiday experience can have a significant impact on your child’s sense of wellbeing – and without a doubt, your own wellbeing too.

Some tips to help have a positive experience during the school holidays

• Set a school holiday budget for activities (and stick to it). Feeling out of control about finances can add to the stress. Rather than have children asking to go to everything that happens during the holidays, set a budget and involve them in the decision-making about outings and special events. Aside from teaching good life skills, this will also help to head off some arguments.

• Plan activities in advance so that children have something to look forward to and some structure during the week. This isn’t just about special outings. It can include things like swimming lessons and play dates. Have a calendar up somewhere easily visible so that children can see when things are happening. It helps them to anticipate and make the most of their “free time” at home. Draw on the activities that the council, local shopping centre and libraries have to offer to help mix things up and keep things interesting.

• Set rules in place at the start of the holidays for things like device and TV time. Being clear about expectations helps reduce arguments. Also we want children outside taking advantage of the sunny weather when it’s shining. Think about all that lovely exercise they could be doing during the day, to help them fall asleep at night (and create some quiet time for you!).

• Have other family members help where they can. Where you can involve other family members in school holidays plans. It’s helps make the time fly, gives children other interesting experiences and parents time to have some down time or catch up time.

• Combine forces with other families and schedule play dates or activities. Wandering around the Zoo is so much more enjoyable with another adult present to chat to as the children roam. Having a chat with another parent (s) while the kids occupy themselves is a great thing in so many ways. Aside from the kids entertaining themselves, the parents get some downtime too.

• Set designated “Parent Rest” times. A miserable stressed parent makes for miserable school holidays for kids too. Give yourself permission to take some time for self-care.

Casual Day Friday

Changes to Mid Year Break 2023

In response to the changing educational environment, and to provide benefits to our students, families and staff all Prescott Schools are adjusting their mid-year calendar dates from next year.

From 2023 the mid-year holiday break for students will become three weeks, with the effective holiday dates for 2023 being 3 July to 21 July.

Further details are contained in the letter below.

School Fees 2023

Below are details of the Prescott Primary Northern fees for 2023. These have been provided as early as possible to help families plan for the next school year.

The Uniform Shop will be open daily for the first two weeks of Term 4, Monday to Thursday, 3pm - 4:30pm, by appointment only. Please contact the Front Office to make an appointment. Alternatively, you can order online through Flexischools and your order will be delivered to your child's classroom.

Notification of Enrollment Changes

Please note that the school requires a terms notice when a family is leaving the school or a terms fees will apply.

Child Starting School in 2024

Will your child be starting school in 2024? Places are filling fast, enroll now to secure your child's future at Prescott Primary Northern.

Daily Health Check

Prescott College