Dear Bernie's School Community,

Wow – what a busy week it has been! We've had a whirlwind of activities and fun, but I must say, I believe both our students and staff are feeling a little exhausted. Firstly, a heartfelt thank you to all the families who joined us for our Tour 'de Bernie's on Tuesday. It was heart warming to witness families coming together to complete the 'Bernie's Cards.' The sheer delight on the children's faces as they saw Bernie Bear and parents enthusiastically participating in Jump Jam was truly priceless. Our deepest appreciation goes to the diligent Open Night committee—Mrs Wright, Miss Winduss, Mrs Crawford, and Mrs Ritikis—as well as our remarkable specialist teachers who crazily agreed to host stations - Mrs Deshon, Mr Sly, Mrs Murphy, Mrs Bowe, and Ibu Kristy.

Another huge thanks to The Culture Week committee – Mrs Pearce, Mrs Wall, Ibu Kristy, Mrs Deshon and Mrs Cosgrove. The students were treated to a wealth of amazing activities throughout the week. We began with the week celebrating the Indigenous clutlure with the Wadumbah Group and concluded the week with Mrs. Wall's Poi dancing and Ibu Kirsty's Indo craft. An amazing week filled with learning and celebrating different cultures!

On August 26th, our Year 6 Creative Edge Team participated in the regional Creative Edge Problem Solving competition, earning the honour of competing in the state finals at Curtin University last Saturday. After a challenging day testing their creativity and collaborative problem-solving skills, they proudly secured 1st Place for Society & Environment in the primary school division. This marks our second consecutive victory in this competition, and we couldn't be prouder. Congratulations to Morgan, Lotoata, Delilah, and Larni, and a special salute to the Creative Edge Super Star, Mrs. Murphy!

With the changing weather, students are frequently putting on and taking off their jumpers. We kindly request that you NAME ALL OF YOUR CHILD'S UNIFORM items! The lost property is overflowing with unclaimed jumpers and labelling them will greatly assist us in returning them to their rightful owners.

It is with mixed emotions that I share the news of my appointment as the Head of Primary at Mandurah Catholic College next year. Reflecting on my time at Bernie's, I find it to be an incredibly rewarding chapter. My heart brims with a deep appreciation for the unique Bernie's community that has left an indelible mark on me. I am profoundly thankful for the unwavering support we have received from our devoted families. My journey here has been enriched by the privilege of getting to know and forming meaningful connections with our exceptional students. Equally, I have treasured the joy and the connections that our staff members have brought into my life. During this period of transition, Mr. T and the entire staff have been a pillar of support, and for that, I am immensely grateful. I hold the utmost faith that Mr T and his team will find an amazing replacement!

Lastly, as the holiday break approaches, please ensure a safe and enjoyable time for your family. A reminder that students are expected to return on Monday, October 9th, marking the first day of Term Four. Go the Blues!

Lisa King

Please be mindful when purchasing uniforms in term 4 that the new uniform policy comes into effect in 2024.

From next year:

• No dresses or sandals are to be worn.
• Only the new jacket style jumpers should be worn
• No old tracksuit pants
• All black, all white or black & white sneakers
• All uniform needs to be embroidered with the school name/logo

It has been brought to our attention that some of the new uniforms have faded and can be easily damaged. If this is the case and you are unhappy with the quality of your uniform, please take it back to Hot Klobba so that they can investigate.

A reminder to families that the Year 7 2026 intake at Kolbe Catholic College & Mother Teresa Catholic College will commence from January 2024. Please ensure that your applications are submitted prior to this date.

This term the Year 1 and 2 students have completed the Friendology Skills Curriculum. They have learnt how to deal with Friendship Fires and put out Tricky Situations.

In our last lesson we all transformed into Friendship Ninjas making our own Ninja Headbands.

Parents, if you are looking for simple but meaningful language and skills to open up a dialogue with your kids please sign up for you free parent account here: https://urstrong.com/parents/

Mrs Deshon

Term 4 starts Monday 9 October 2023

Whole School Mass - Wednesday 11 October 9.00 - 10.00am

Term 4: Monday 9 October - Friday 8 December 2023

Please note that as this is a live calendar, dates and times may change occasionally.