Contents
- Useful Links
- From the Principal
- From the Assistant Principal Religious Identity & Mission
- From the Assistant Principal Learning, Engagement & Teaching
- From Our Hands to the Heart of the APY Lands
- PE / Sport
- Wellbeing
- Wellbeing gallery update
- Class update - 1TM
- Class update gallery - 1TM
- Class update - 34OM
- Class update - 34NU
- Class update gallery - 34NU
- Class update - 56BC
- Specialist update - ART
- Specialist update gallery - Visual Art
- Early Learning @ OLQP!
- Parents and Friends Committee update
- Second hand uniform shop
- Before & After School Care
- Community News
Term 2 Week 6 2025 Newsletter
Download any of the following documents by clicking on the link.
Student absence / late arrival / early departure information
Policies
Playgroup & Occasional Care
Parents & Friends Committee
- Email: PnF@olqp.catholic.edu.au
Second hand uniform shop
- Please note that the Parents and Friends Committee is no longer accepting uniforms for sale on consignment.
Enrolments
Canteen
Qkr!
OSHC
Calendar
- Term 1, 2025 - updated 03/25
- Term 2, 2025 - updated 06/25
- Term 3, 2025 - updated 03/25
- Term 4, 2025 - updated 03/25
End of Term Reflections
It is hard to believe, but we are already approaching the end of Term 2. In the busyness of school life, it is easy to overlook the incredible growth our students experience. Over time, I have developed a habit of pausing to reflect — usually sitting quietly in my office at the end of each week, contemplating the week that has been. At the heart of these reflections are always the students — their progress, their challenges, and their achievements.
I encourage our staff to take similar moments throughout the term, and I extend that same invitation to families. Take a moment to think back to how your child began the year or even just this term. Consider how they have changed, what they have learned, and the successes they have experienced — big or small.
Chances are, like me, you will discover many moments of growth worth celebrating.
Reports
Student report collection
Student reports will be available for collection from 3pm Monday 30 June 2025. We kindly ask families to collect the reports in person, as you are the intended audience. Experience has shown that when students take reports home themselves, they are often the first to open and read them.
We would appreciate it if all reports could be collected by the end of the term. For students who attend OSHC, their reports will be available for collection from the OSHC office.
Understanding the grades
Your child’s report is a mid year report, reflecting their learning and assessment from Terms 1 and 2. It is important to understand the distinction between the Mid Year and End of Year Reports:
- Mid Year Report (Term 1 and 2): Reflects your child’s achievement in relation to the expected year level standard, based on evidence collected during the first half of the year.
- End of Year Report: Provides a summary of your child’s achievement and progress across the entire year. It is a cumulative assessment that includes evidence from both the first half and the second half of the year.
- Please note: A ‘C’ grade indicates that your child is achieving at the expected standard for their year level. While perceptions of grading may vary, especially compared to past generations, it is important to recognise that a ‘C’ today represents solid, satisfactory progress.
Student free days / Early dismissals
I have sent a message via Seesaw regarding the upcoming Term 3 student free day. With the approval of the School Board, please note that OSHC will not be available on this day.
This decision has not been made lightly, as I understand the impact it may have on families, however, there are important reasons behind it:
- Our OSHC is school run.
- The student free day is dedicated to staff formation.
- It is essential that OSHC staff also participate in this formation.
- Their involvement directly contributes to the quality of care and support we provide to our students.
- Looking ahead, we will continue to have four student free days per year. OSHC will be available on the student free days in Terms 1, 2, and 4.
Additionally, we will maintain the 1:30pm early dismissal at the end of each term, with OSHC available for families who require it. Please be aware that staffing capacity may be limited during these times.
Thank you for your understanding and continued support.
Volunteers welcome
As many of you know, building a strong sense of community is something I deeply value. Recently, a family asked whether itis appropriate for grandparents to volunteer at school. It reminded me that I may have taken for granted that everyone knows — parents, grandparents, special friends, and other family members are all warmly welcome to volunteer at our school.
To ensure the safety and wellbeing of our students, all volunteers are required to have:
- A current Working with Children Check / Catholic Clearance
- Completion of the Fundamentals course: Responding to Risk of Harm, Abuse and Neglect – Education and Care (free and available online)
- Completed two CESA forms, recording information about yourself
Detailed information regarding how to volunteer at Our Lady Queen of Peace School will be distributed to families next week, Week 10 of Term 2.
Thank You
I want to extend my sincere thanks to our staff, volunteers, students, and families. As a school community, we offer an incredible amount of support, opportunity, and moments of success for our students. These achievements are only possible when we work together in strong partnership.
I am deeply passionate about leading the best school we can be. And I hope it is clear to all — I am incredibly proud to be the principal of this amazing school.
Lee Abela
Principal
Celebrating Saints Peter and Paul: Pillars of our faith
This coming Sunday 29 June 2025, we celebrate the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, two of the greatest saints in the history of the Church. As we head into the weekend, it is a perfect time to reflect as a family on their lives, their faith, and what they can teach us today.
Who Were Peter and Paul?
Saint Peter was a fisherman called by Jesus to be a disciple. Jesus gave him a new name, Peter, meaning “rock” and made him the leader of the Apostles. He is considered to be the first Pope!
Saint Paul started out as a persecutor of Christians, but after a powerful encounter with Jesus, he became one of the Church’s greatest missionaries and writers.
Though very different in background and personality, both men gave their lives to spread the Gospel and were martyred in Rome. Their courage and faith helped build the Church we are part of today.
Why do de celebrate them together?
Peter and Paul remind us that God calls all kinds of people to do His work - fishermen and scholars, the bold and the thoughtful, the steady and the passionate. Their feast day is a celebration of unity in diversity and of the power of God’s grace to transform lives.
Sunday’s Gospel: Matthew 16:13-19
You are Peter, and I will give to you the keys of the kingdom of heaven.
When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he put this question to his disciples:
"Who do people say the Son of Man is?’"
And they said, "Some say he is John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets."
"But you,’"he said, "who do you say I am?"
Then Simon Peter spoke up, "You are the Christ,’"he said, "the Son of the living God."Jesus replied, "Simon son of Jonah, you are a happy man! Because it was not flesh and blood that revealed this to you but my Father in heaven. So I now say to you: You are Peter and on this rock I will build my Church. And the gates of the underworld can never hold out against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven: whatever you bind on earth shall be considered bound in heaven; whatever you loose on earth shall be considered loosed in heaven."
A final thought
Saints Peter and Paul were not perfect but they were faithful. Their lives show us that God can do amazing things through ordinary people who say “yes” to him. May their example inspire us all to live with courage, love, and trust in God.
Wishing you a blessed weekend!
Marissa Redden
Assistant Principal
Religious Identity & Mission
Moderation staff meeting - Strengthening assessment and moderation practices
At our latest staff meeting, teachers engaged in a professional development session focused on understanding assessment and moderation processes. Ensuring consistency and clarity in student evaluations remains a priority for us at Our Lady Queen of Peace School.
A key focus of our meeting was moderation; the practice of reviewing and refining assessment judgements to maintain fairness and consistency across classes. All teachers worked together to compare student work against standards, reinforcing a shared understanding of achievement levels.
During the session, teachers were provided with work samples from the curriculum area of
Mathematics, designed to help benchmark, clarify expectations, and align their grading with both achievement standards and CESA performance standards. By examining these samples collaboratively, staff engaged in meaningful discussions about student progress, ensuring that assessments accurately reflect learning outcomes.
Wakakirri Performance Squad: Gearing up for the big stage!
Our talented Wakakirri Performance Squad is in full swing, preparing for their moment in the spotlight at the upcoming Wakakirri Story Dance Festival! With the performance date fast approaching, the energy and excitement are building. On Tuesday 8 July 2025, students will come together for a holiday workshop, where they will refine their choreography, polish their
storytelling, and put the finishing touches on costumes and props. This workshop is a crucial step in bringing the performance to life and building unity as a team. We are so proud of the commitment and enthusiasm each student has shown.
The big event will take place on Thursday 7 August 2025 at the Norwood Concert Hall. This promises to be an unforgettable night, where our students will showcase their creativity, teamwork, and passion for performance.
Important dates:
- Tuesday 1 July 2025 – Ticket sales open
Tuesday 8 July 2025 – Holiday workshop (compulsory for all performers)- Thursday 7 August 2025 – Wakakirri Performance Night at Norwood Concert Hall
Thank you for your ongoing support. We cannot wait to cheer our performers on as they shine on stage!
Adriana Pilla
Assistant Principal
Learning, Engagement and Teaching
From our hands to the heart of the APY Lands 
A huge thank you to our wonderful Playgroup families for their overwhelming generosity in supporting our donation drive. With over 300 items collected, their kindness reached far beyond our local community — all the way to a small domestic violence shelter in the APY Lands, where the closest shop is more than six hours away.
These donations brought not just essentials, but hope, dignity and care to women and children in incredibly remote and vulnerable circumstances. Your giving hearts made a real difference, and we could not be more proud to be part of such a compassionate community. One mother was brought to her knees when she was able to give her son a birthday present: a brand new football!
Thank you for showing our little ones what it truly means to care for others.
Thank you also to Senior Constable Martschink who helped us deliver our donations safely and for showing us around whilst visiting.
Andi Benzija
Early learning
OLQP at Catholic Schools Basketball Carnival
On Thursday 12 June 2025, Our Lady Queen of Peace School proudly took part in the Catholic Schools Basketball Carnival. With 17 students selected to represent the school, OLQP fielded both a boys and a girls team, competing against other Catholic metropolitan schools.
The boys team displayed remarkable effort throughout the tournament, battling fiercely in each game. Despite a few narrow losses, they secured a commendable 9th place out of 15 teams, demonstrating resilience and teamwork. A huge thank you to Charlie Farrell (ESO), whose passionate coaching kept the team motivated and focused throughout the day.
Our girls team had a sensational run, finishing 2nd out of 13 teams. They faced a tense final
playoff against a formidable Stella Maris Parish School side, playing with determination and skill. Special appreciation goes to Ashleigh Haigh (ESO), who guided the team through each game with dedication and encouragement.
A heartfelt thank you to our parent volunteers, Kimberley M and Jackie A, for their support in scoring duties.
Promoting positive sportsmanship at after school competitions
Recently, our school board introduced the OLQP Code of Behaviour for Sporting Activities, a guiding document that reinforces our commitment to respectful and fair play in school sports. This important code has been shared with families to ensure that our values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and integrity are upheld during all sporting events.
At the Catholic Schools Basketball Carnival, we encountered an inspiring campaign that aligns perfectly with our school’s stance on appropriate conduct at after school competitions. The message was clear: sports should bring people together, fostering a culture of respect and
encouragement on and off the court.
Recently, I stumbled across an article that emphasises the importance of respect and teamwork at sporting events. Some of the positive behaviours are outlined below:
How to be a good sports parent — What to do
Prioritise fun and growth
- Ask your child: “Did you have fun?” not “Did you win?”
- Celebrate effort, improvement, teamwork, and resilience.
- Help them love the game that’s what keeps them playing long-term.
Be their biggest supporter — not their coach
- Let the coach do the coaching.
- Your job is to provide emotional support and encouragement, win or lose. Post-game, keep it simple: “I loved watching you play.”
Listen more than you talk
- If your child wants to talk about the game, let them lead the conversation.
- Don’t launch into critiques, analysis, or advice unless they ask for it.
- Sometimes they just need a milkshake and a hug.
Respect the coach and referees
- Trust the process, even if you don’t agree with every decision.
- Avoid side comments, outbursts, or backseat coaching from the stands.
- Referees are human. Mistakes happen. Keep perspective.
Cheer for the whole team
- Applaud good plays from anyone on the court.
- Promote a positive team culture, kids notice which parents are kind, loud, or toxic.
- Be the parent other kids feel safe around.
Model composure and class
- Show respect to opponents, coaches, referees, and other parents.
- Don’t gossip or complain in front of your child they absorb everything.
- Lead by example how you behave in the stands teaches more than what you say.
Keep perspective
- Not every kid will be a star or get equal minutes.
- Not every game is about winning it’s about learning.
- If they’ve developed character, friendships, and a love for sport, that’s a win.
Bonus tip: Use the 24-hour rule
- If you have a concern about playing time, coaching decisions, or a tough game, wait 24 hours before reaching out. Emotions cool, clarity improves, and conversations are far more
constructive.
Please also find a link to view the full article if you wish to read further:
https://www.basketball.com.au/news/basketball-mums-and-dads-dont-be-one-of-those-parents
By reinforcing these values, we create a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone. Thank you for helping us uphold the OLQP Code of Behaviour for Sporting Activities and making school sports a meaningful experience for all.
Matthew Annetta
PE teacher / Sports Coordinator
Building Respectful Friendships in Year 5 and 6
This term, our Year 5 and 6 students have been taking part in the Love Bites Junior Friends program, a fun and interactive workshop all about building respectful and positive friendships. The program helps students learn what makes a healthy friendship, how to set personal boundaries, and how to recognise helpful and unhelpful behaviours.
Through games, role-plays, creative activities, and group discussions, students explore important topics like communication, empathy, inclusion, and how to handle peer pressure both in person and online. They also learn how to manage conflict, ask for help when needed, and support their friends.
The program has been specially adapted by our team to suit the needs of our Year 5 and 6 cohorts, with small differences to make sure each group gets the most out of the experience. It’s a great way to help students grow their confidence, kindness, and understanding as they prepare for the transition to high school.
We are proud to support our students in becoming respectful, caring, and thoughtful friends both in the classroom and beyond!
Tina Napier
Wellbeing Leader
In 1TM this term, we have been incorporating ‘Sizzling Starts’ from the Seven Steps to Writing Success program to our narrative writing. Students started their stories with a powerful sound word, writing openings that grab the reader’s attention from the very first sentence.
We are so proud of the creativity and effort they have shown; these young authors are on their way to becoming master storytellers. Take a look at a few sizzling starts below.
Tara May
Year 1 teacher
Learning About feast days in Religion
As part of our Religion program, students have been learning about feast days and why they are celebrated in the Church.
We recently explored the life of St Dominic, whose feast day is on 8 August, and how he followed in the footsteps of Jesus through prayer, preaching and service. Students engaged in thoughtful discussions and shared meaningful insights about how they can live like Jesus today.
They also practised their note taking skills to record key information and reflect on St Dominic’s life. It was a valuable and faith filled learning experience for all.
Olivia Mammone
Year 3/4 teacher
Mathematics – Data
Students in class 3/4NU have been diving into the world of data during their Mathematics lessons.
They have been learning how to collect, display, and analyse data in meaningful ways.
As part of their learning, students created their own column graphs in their Maths books, focusing on making them neat and easy to read. They discovered how clear and accurate graphs help us understand information better and make comparisons more effectively.
Natalie Urdanoff
Year 3/4 teacher
Recently in 5/6BC, we introduced Zones of Regulation blocks. The visual representation of the Zones of Regulation (blue, green, yellow, red) allows for students to express their current state of wellbeing in a timely manner, which can then be addressed promptly by myself, an ESO, or a friend. Students have engaged in extensive work regarding these zones and, as a result, can effectively evaluate their emotions throughout the day and ask for help when needed.
As staff, we are always looking for ways to monitor student wellbeing, and I believe this tool is already making a positive difference in class. Below are some statements written by the students, giving their thoughts on how the blocks have made an impact in our class.
- ‘’I use my blocks to show my feelings and help me. They are helpful and they make it easier to communicate about how I feel, especially when I don't want to talk about it.’’
- ‘’We have been working on showing our Zones of Regulation using 4 blocks in the colours of the zones. It helps us tell Mr Creeper our zones without having to go to him and tell him. For example, if you were having trouble on something but didn’t want to tell him or show it, you could put the red brick on the top.’’
- ‘’I use my blocks to show how l feel over the day and they help me. They help me show how l feel and if l am not feeling good, l can put the red block at the top. But if l had a good sleep, and l am feeling good, l can put the green block at the top. They also help me to communicate.’’
- ‘’They help me by telling my teacher how I feel without having to go up to him and tell him. They are small and easy to set up as all I have to do is order my feelings on what I’m feeling the most and what I’m feeling the least.’’
- ‘’The blocks are helpful because they let you show your emotions to your teachers, and they also help you by telling how you feel and how you can help it. It’s a good way to share emotions and the good thing is no one makes fun of you.’’
Billy Creeper
Year 5/6 teacher
Creative adventures in the Art Room!
This term, our student artists have been busy exploring a wide variety of visual art techniques and concepts. Students have been developing their creative skills through hands-on experiences with painting, paper-mâché, perspective drawing, collage and textiles.
The Year 5/6 student artists have learnt some new acrylic paint techniques experimenting with brushwork, texture, and colour mixing. Applying their newly learnt skills, they are just in the process of completing a landscape painting. You can view a few of the nearly finished works in the photo gallery; they are doing an amazing job!
In Year 3/4, art students are learning about one point perspective and applying their knowledge to creating their own dream room. Learning how to give depth and spatial awareness, creating the illusion of three dimensions on a flat surface, is a big step in developing their visual literacy.
The paper-mâché sculptures of ice creams and donuts students in Year 1 and 2 have just completed are so well done, stepping into the art room could make you hungry! The students looked at American sculpture artist, Peter Andre, giant confectionery sculptures, and used
them as a source ofinspiration. The students constructed their sculptures’ armatures out of newspaper and cardboard, and then covered them with layers of gluey newspaper. Then came the most exciting part – painting and decorating them in mouthwatering colours and adding details such as sprinkles and puff paint ‘icing’.
Our Reception artists have been developing their art skills, learning about the elements of art. In their lessons they have been focusing on colour theory, exploring warm and cool colours, patterns, texture and collage. Students have learned to observe, reflect, and make intentional choices in their work, building both confidence and artistic fluency. The creativity and enthusiasm of the students has been really great.
Please enjoy a snippet of the students’ wonderful creations in the newsletter photo gallery.
Suzanne Healey
ART teacher
Come and join the fun!
- Occasional Care
9am-12noon Tuesdays for children 3-5 years. - Playgroup
9am-10.30am Wednesdays for children 0-5 years.
More questions?
Contact - Andi Benzija
- Phone: 8279 8800
- Email: Andi.Benzija@olqp.catholic.edu.au
Showdown 58 Donut Day
Adelaide Crows and Port Power go head to head in Showdown 58 this July! To celebrate this iconic South Australian rivalry, the P & F Committee is thrilled to bring back our Showdown Donuts, generously baked by our friends at Ned Kelly’s Bakery, Alberton.
Donuts will be decorated in your favourite team’s colours – whether you are a passionate Port supporter or a loyal Crows fan, there is a delicious donut waiting for you!
Key details:
- When: Friday 25 July 2025
- How to order: Qkr! ONLY – click on the image of the flyer for step by step instructions.
- Order deadline: Orders must be placed via Qkr! by 1pm Wednesday 23 July 2025
- Cost: $3 per donut
- Important: No donut sales will be available on the day, so get your order in early!
Please note that NO LATE ORDERS CAN BE ACCEPTED, as final catering numbers must be submitted to the bakery by 2pm on Wednesday 23 July.
Get behind our teams and enjoy a sweet treat to celebrate this beloved local tradition!
Winter Disco 2025 Save the date
Get ready to dance the night away at our OLQP Winter Disco 2025! It is time to pull out your best moves, dress in your coolest winter disco gear, and enjoy a night of fun, friends, and flashing glow sticks!
Event Details:
- Date: Friday 15 August 2025 Term 3, Week 4
- Location: Bilyonendi Hall – Enter via Botting Street
- Cost: $8 per student – includes a snack, drink, glow sticks, and great music!
- Who: OLQP Students ONLY
Session times:
- Junior disco (Reception – Year 2): 6pm – 7:15pm
- Senior disco (Years 3 – 6): 7:30pm – 9pm
How to buy tickets:
Tickets will be available via Qkr! ONLY from Friday 25 July 2025.
NO TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR
Do not miss out on this exciting event! Be sure to purchase your ticket before the deadline and join us for a night of winter fun and dancing!
Save the date – Bingo Night!
Mark your calendars! The P & F will be hosting their very first Bingo Night!
To be held on Friday 24 October 2025 in Bilyonendi Hall, this fun filled event is a fantastic opportunity for our community to come together, enjoy a great night out, and support our school.
To make the night a success, we are seeking donations from local businesses within our school community. If you or someone you know can contribute prizes, vouchers, or goods for a silent auction, we would love to hear from you!
Stay tuned for more details on ticket sales and event highlights. If you are able to contribute or have any questions, please contact PNF@olqp.catholic.edu.au.
Upcoming events Term 3
- Friday 1 August 2025 - Principal for a Day
- Friday 15 August 2025 - Winter Disco
- Wednesday 20 August 2025 - P & F Book Week special lunch
- Tuesday 2 September 2025 - Father's Day stall
- Tuesday 11 September 2025 - R U OK? Day
Corin Mitchell
Chairperson
Parents and Friends Committee
Opening times:
Fridays
- 8.40am – 9am
- 2.40pm – 3pm
The second hand uniform shop service, facilitated by a dedicated group of parents, supports the community to access quality and affordable second hand uniforms for their children.
Donations of quality second hand uniform items needed!
Donations are needed. If you have any quality items at home that no longer fit your child, please consider donating to our shop through the front office.
Proceeds raised from the sale of these donations go towards student centred projects and activities at our school.
Location:
Currently located in the P & F Room (near the girls' toilets, adjacent the basketball courts).
Call 8279 8800 if you require more information, or alternatively, you can email the P & F Committee using this email: PNF@olqp.catholic.edu.au.
P & F Committee
New families and permanent bookings:
All new family bookings and permanent bookings need to be made through the OSHC office.
Please contact OSHC by:
- phone on 0417 840 700,
- email at OSHC@olqp.catholic.edu.au ,
- popping into OSHC, or
- visiting the front office for an information pack.
SPIKE Childcare app
A courtesy reminder that families should use the SPIKE app to manage their child's OSHC / Vacation Care bookings, including cancellations.
A SPIKE app info sheet can be found in the Useful Links section of this newsletter.
Lizzy Diawati
OSHC Director
North West Junior Soccer Association (NWJSA) July school holiday program 2025.
We will be running a JULY SCHOOL HOLIDAY CLINIC for 3 days on the 7, 8 and 9 July at Jubilee Reserve, West Lakes Shore 9am to 12pm.
- Parents/Guardians will need to register players through the website nwjsa.mysportapp.com.au
- You can use existing registration details.
- If you are having difficulties signing up due to an email address that is already in use or you are unable to log in under child/ren name, please reach out to info@nwjsa.org.au.
See the flyer attached for further information.
First Taekwondo
At First Taekwondo, we are committed to fostering self-defence skills, physical fitness, and mental well being in a structured and supportive environment. Our programs are designed to be inclusive and family friendly, welcoming participants of all ages and skill levels.
For more information please see the attached flyer.
Should you require any further information or wish to discuss this opportunity, please do not hesitate to contact Carl Fortington:
- Phone - 0488 088 571
- Email - carl.fortington@firsttaekwondo.com.au.
Social