Dear Lord,

We ask you to bless St Joseph's School Community.

We pray that you guide us to be just and to see,
listen, speak and act like St Joseph.

May we be inspired by our Founders to be the best
that we can be.

May we always keep Jesus at the centre of all we do.

St Emilie          Pray for us

St Marcellin      Pray for us

St Joseph         Pray for us 

And may we always remember to pray for one another.

AMEN

Dear Members of St Joseph's Community

Last Friday we celebrated and farewelled our Class of 2024 Year 12 students at their Graduation mass and supper. They have been a fantastic cohort, and we send them on their way with God’s blessing and our best wishes. The ATAR examinations commence on Monday, and we wish all students the very best of luck for this final hurdle. 

Grandparents Day today was a resounding success as the Primary campus was filled with much love and laughter. It is always so special to see the bond between children and their grandparents and we thank those who were able to be with us. 

Congratulations to Mr Mark Gargano, who this week received a certificate of recognition for 30 years of service to Catholic Education WA. Mr Gargano was also invited to be the guest speaker at CEWA’s annual awards breakfast, where he reminisced about the changes his 30 years of teaching has seen.  

A reminder about some important dates coming up: 

Monday 4 November – Pupil Free Day. No staff will be at school that day. 

Wednesday 6 November – Presentation Night 6:00pm at the Northam Rec Centre. An email will be sent to families with instructions next week. 

Wednesday 20 November – The annual School Community Meeting 2:30pm in the Primary PAC. The School Advisory Council is looking for people willing to become part of the dynamic and hard-working team. If you are interested in becoming involved, please send an email with your expression of interest to admin@sjsnortham.wa.edu.au.

A reminder to inform the school via the departure form on the website or an email to the admin address if your child/children will not be returning to St Joseph’s next year.  

With God’s blessings, 

Andrea Woodgate
Principal 

School Photographs

If your child was involved in one of the group photos taken on photo day, these are now available to order through the Fotomakers website.

For a list of the group photos available and instructions on how to place your order, please see below.

Dates for your Diary

Week 4

Monday 28 October:	Swimming Lessons for Pre-Primary, Yr 3 & Yr 5 - all week Yr 12 ATAR Examinations commence
Tuesday 29 October:	Year 3 Liturgy CAPSS Athletics Carnival
Wednesday 30 October:	Yr 9/10 Visual Arts Excursion Yr 6 Confirmation Rehearsal - 3:45pm.
Thursday 31 October:	Yr 11 Final Day of School Early Close
Friday 1 November:	Yr 11 Examinations commence All Saints Day Masses

Week 5

Monday 4 November:	Catholic Day - School closed
Tuesday 5 November:	Yr 5 & 10 Cemetery Visit
Wednesday 6 November:	Presentation Night - 6:00pm
Thursday 7 November:	Early Close
Friday 8 November:	Primary Assembly
Saturday 9 November:	Alumni Event

Future Events

Sunday 17 November:	Confirmation Mass - 10:30am
Wednesday 20 November:	P&F AGM - 2:00pm Community Meeting - 2:30pm

The winner of this Week's 'Spirit of Jesus' Award is Emily Street.

Commissioning of Parish Readers

On Monday 14 October, 4 students and 3 staff were commissioned as readers into St Joseph's Parish Ministry of Readers.

The readers will deliver important ministry for our Parish for weekend masses over the coming year.

We thank Father Ruben for conducting the commissioning.

We also extend our congratulations to Mrs Renee Marasco, Mrs Nicki Parker, Jianna Matres, Ronvince Rubin, Monica Gustak and Jessica Howlett, along with all other parishioners who have accepted the role in reader ministry for 2025.

Dear Families & Friends,  

Today we had a wonderful morning with many grandparents visiting the primary classes. The students were so proud showing their grandparents around the school and they enjoyed hearing the stories of how different school was ‘back in the day’. Thank you to the Secondary staff and students who baked scones for our morning tea and the Primary staff in their preparation for the event. 

Yesterday was a big day for our Year 5 students as they presented their 2025 Student Leader Speeches. Mrs Woodgate and I were incredibly impressed with the quality of speeches, and it was obvious that a great deal of time and effort had been put into their nominations. Over half of the cohort nominated for one of eight positions, which highlights the depth of respect that students have for the role, and I have no doubt that all the Year 5 students will make remarkable leaders as the oldest students on our campus next year, even without the official badge. 

Spirit of Jesus moments: 

• Hearing the primary band students rocking out to Katy Perry in their rehearsals 
• Listening to the water safety knowledge of Year 3 students as they started their swimming lessons
• Enjoying getting into the water play with Pre-Primary students as they explore the big playground in transition to next year
• Discussing tricky friendship situations with Year 4 students and learning how we can say ‘no’ kindly 

Linley Waters
Head of Primary

Class in Focus: Kindergarten Blue

Transport Adventures in Kindergarten Blue!

This term, our kindergarten class has returned to school exploring different modes of transport! We kicked off by discussing what we already know about transport and shared experiences of the various types we have used. The students brought in photos of themselves using different modes of transport, which we proudly displayed in our classroom. These discussions helped us create wonder questions to guide our exploration throughout the term.

We started our journey by exploring air transport and land transport. The children were thrilled to help create an airport play area in our classroom, where they decided to add food to serve on the plane and bags to check in—just like a real airport! We’ve also been busy experimenting with clouds using shaving foam and toy planes, crafting our very own planes to see how they fly, and getting creative by drawing cars and making train names.

It’s been an exciting start to Term Three, and the students are eager to continue discovering all about the fascinating world of transport. We can't wait to see where the rest of our term will take us!

Jessica Morris
Kindergarten Blue Teacher 

Class in Focus: Year Five Blue

Year 5 Camp: An Unforgettable Adventure at Swan Valley!

This year's Year 5 camp at the Swan Valley Adventure Centre (SVAC) was nothing short of extraordinary! The adventure began bright and early as students boarded the bus, filled with energy and excitement. With music blasting and voices singing, the atmosphere was electric, setting the tone for a fantastic getaway.

Upon arrival, the cozy dorm rooms welcomed the eager campers, who quickly set up and gathered for a delightful recess outdoors. The first activities included thrilling options like Archery and Crate-Stacking. Students discovered the challenges and joys of each, with archery proving to be a test of focus and skill, while crate stacking had everyone laughing as they built towers, cheered each other on and bravely faced their fears.

As the day progressed, lunch brought a break for everyone to recharge with their packed meals before diving back into the fun. Beach Volleyball followed, where friendly competition kept spirits high. Afternoon tea of chips and fruit was just the boost needed before the highlight for many—a kayaking adventure! Under the guidance of instructor Lucy, students paddled along the scenic waters, creating waves of laughter and excitement.

Evenings at camp were just as lively, with Father making a special trip down to lead a meaningful liturgy focusing on creation. After a hearty dinner of delicious lasagna prepared by Mrs Sandrini, the night games kicked off, leading to sneaky rounds of “Red Light, Green Light” that had everyone in stitches. As lights went out at 9:00pm, campers drifted off to sleep, exhausted but happy.

On the final day, an early breakfast fuelled students for one last round of kayaking, where some took daring leaps and even enjoyed a swim in the refreshing waters.

Reflecting on their experiences, students expressed immense gratitude for the leadership and teamwork skills they developed during their time at SVAC.

With so many exciting memories created, it is clear that this Year 5 camp was a huge success, leaving students eager for their next adventure in Year 6.

Krystal Armarego
Year 5 Blue Teacher

Career Taster in Automotive for Year 9 Students 
This past week, our Year 9 students had the exciting opportunity to participate in a career taster program focused on the automotive industry. They gained hands-on experience and insights into potential future careers, sparking interest and enthusiasm for the field. Have a look at Mrs Marriott's article below for some photos. 

Year 10A Science Excursion to the Gravity Discovery Centre 
Our Year 10A Science students embarked on an educational excursion to the Gravity Discovery Centre. The trip was filled with engaging activities and experiments that deepened their understanding of physics and astronomy, making science both fun and informative. 

Year 12 Graduation 
A heartfelt congratulations to our Year 12 students who celebrated their final Mass and supper, marking the end of their journey at St Joseph’s School. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and wish them all the best in their future endeavours. 

2025 Year 7 Information Night 
Thank you to the parents and students who came out Wednesday night for the 2025 Year 7 Information Night. It was lovely to meet so many as we work together to support our new high school students. 

Upcoming Excursion for Year 9 and 10 Art Students 
Next week, our Year 9 and 10 Art students will be visiting The Art Gallery of Western Australia. This excursion promises to be an inspiring experience, allowing students to explore and appreciate a wide range of artistic works. 

Uniforms 
We would like to remind all students that certain items are not permitted at school to maintain a respectful and distraction-free environment. Extension nails and eyelashes are not allowed. Additionally, students may wear only one pair of earrings, which must be located in the lobe of the ear. Nose rings and any other piercings around the ear are also prohibited. We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to these guidelines. 

God Bless.

Sharon Cusack
Head of Secondary

Student Footy Tipping Competition

Congratulations to Oliver Clarke who is this year's winner (Runner up to Mr Reidy) of the School Student Footy Tipping Competition.

Thank you to Domino's Northam for sponsoring the competition and all who joined in and donated their entry fee to Caritas Project Compassion in Term 1.

Congratulations to Lachlyn Hargrave for his successful completion of 55 hours of Workplace Learning with PJ Robinson Carpentry.  Lachlyn’s placement provided him with a taste of what it's like to be a carpenter and construction worker and put the foundations in place for his future.  Lachlyn worked on a room extension and learned to shop and order materials for upcoming jobs.  Lachlyn used a variety of hand and power tools during his placement.  

Lachlyn is considering a mechanical work placement next year.

Congratulations to Henry Buxton for completing his first work placement at the Reject Shop in Northam.  Henry learned new skills in stock control and rotation, time management and Occupational Safety and Health in the workplace. 

Henry has applied for a Christmas holiday casual job at the Reject Shop following his successful placement.

Career Taster Day - Automotive

On Wednesday 16 October , a select group of Year 9 students attended a Career Taster at Central Regional TAFE.  Students learned about the kinds of skills and knowledge they would gain from a Certificate II in Automotive Prep qualification and the operation of a variety of different engines. 

The students worked in teams to disassemble and reassemble engine components including the exhaust system and the cylinder heads.  When reflecting on the day, all the students said the event had confirmed their intention to pursue a mechanical career pathway in the future.

ASDAN

The ASDAN students worked very hard on the morning of Tuesday 15 October, preparing recipes to make use of the huge harvest of beetroots from their vegetable garden.  The students produced six jars of pickled beetroot and two dips.

All the students tried the dips with mixed reactions, mostly positive,  with the feta dip the standout winner.

Caroline Marriott
VET Coordinator

School Calendar

The school calender is accessed via the School website or the Schoolzine app. Please ensure that you keep refering to this calendar throughout the year.

You are encouraged to check the calendar for upcoming events that may involve your family.

Andrea Woodgate
Principal

Parent Participation Scheme

Did you know that the School offers a reduction in your school fees?

Families have the ability to work off a portion of their fees through voluntary help at the School. This is a great way to get involved and set a wonderful example of vollunteering for your child.

Whilst assisting in the Canteen is an obvious way to help, other activities encouraged include:

• Classroom assistance
• Reading assistance
• Officiating at swimming & athletics carnivals
• Gardening
• Running or assisting with fundraising activities
• Covering books for the Library

Forms and pamphlets are available from the Primary Office or to download from the website at https://sjsnortham.schoolzineplus.com/_file/media/86/parent_participation_card.pdf

Once completed, please hand in to the Business Manager, Ms Quinn, by the end of Term 3 - the forms can be dropped into either the Primary or Secondary Admin Office and Ms Quinn will arrange for the deduction of the Levy from your School Fees Account.

Sharon Quinn
Business Manager

Term Time Opening Times:           Mondays - 3.15pm to 4.45pm       
                                                             Thursdays - 2.45pm to 4.15pm    

SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE! SALE! 

Please email michelle.james@cewa.edu.au with bundle orders, and your payment information. If you would prefer to not put your card information in the email, please supply a contact number where Mrs James can call you when she has processed your order.

Alternately, you can make an appointment to come in to the shop during opening hours on Monday and Thursday afternoons to pick your bundle and pay then.

Please note that we are no longer accepting donations of preloved uniform at school. Current uniform preloved items will still be available outside the uniform shop on Monday and Thursday afternoons, until the end of this year.

Families wishing to access the Uniform Shop are advised that the online shop is the preferred method of ordering uniforms. Please note we cannot accept email or telephone orders.

If items are required to be tried on, then an appointment should be made through our online booking system.  As the Uniform Shop is a small space, we continue to limit numbers, so an appointment is required.

For details of our new online Booking System for Uniform Shop Appointments, please see the attached flyer.

New Online Appointment Booking Site 2024

New Online Appointment Booking Site 2024 1.79 MB

Please keep in mind when ordering that items will be sent home within 2-4 days of ordering.

Disclaimer:

All returns and or exchanges of uniforms to be made within the school term (3 months) of initial purchase.

Michelle James 
Primary - 9621 3524

The Primary Canteen is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

Recess or snack items ordered online are available for students to collect from the Canteen at their Recess break. Milo pops and icypoles can be collected from the Canteen following the second lunch bell.

Canteen Support - Volunteers Required

Due to high demand on our quality food and service we need helpers to ensure that our kids get their lunches on time. In order to function to our highest potential, we ideally need 2 or more volunteers a day. Volunteering is a great way to teach your kids about giving, modelling them for the future. Also, every shift you do at our school helps you towards qualifying for a Parent Participation discount on your annual fees.  

We would love to welcome you into our fun and busy environment and see the smiles on your children’s faces when they see you in their school. If you are able help, please send back your Canteen Assistance form or, for Primary, sign up online: here.

We look forward to working with you. If you have any queries, you are always welcome to contact the Canteen on the numbers below.

Angela Sandrini (Primary)    Desrae Smith (Secondary)
9621 3525                                   9621 8104

I hope everyone has settled well into term 4!

Parent Mental Health Seminar
The seminar was a huge success and I would like to thank everyone who attended! Claire was an amazing speaker and provided everyone with some great information. I would like to thank the P&F committee for their help in organising the event.

This was our last event for the year. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the committee for all their hard work this year. I would also like to thank the many volunteers who gave up their time to help at all events. Our events cannot happen without the generous time given by volunteers; thank you everyone!

P&F AGM
The P&F AGM will be held on Wednesday 20 November at 2.00pm in the PAC.

All committee positions are declared vacant and are open for nominations. There are 5 positions available - if you would like to nominate for a position please email the school or contact myself. I encourage everyone to attend and see what events we have planned for next year.

The school board AGM will be held straight after.

Follow us on Facebook

To stay up to date with the P&F please follow our Facebook page for more updates. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1764507137145087

Casey Pearse
P&F Chair

Parish Priest - Fr Stephen Jean Paul Victor

Assistant Priest - Fr Rubenson Cardona

Mass Times ~ Saturday Vigil @ 5.30pm

                      ~ Sunday Mass @ 8.00am  

Presbytery Phone: 08 9622 5411
Email: northam@perthcatholic.org.au
Website: www.northamchurch.com

Parish News ~ Children's Liturgy 
Children’s Liturgy sessions are held during the 8.00am Sunday Mass.