Prime Minister Award

‘Being a steward of creation’, ‘Trying your best’, ‘Speaking with kindness’ and ‘Being a responsible learner’ are some of the qualities that teachers consider when awarding ‘Prime Minister’ at our weekly assembly. It is an acknowledgement of the student’s efforts and they have the privilege of wearing the badge with honour, of suggesting a focus the school can work on, award Gotchas to other students at lunch time as well as earning Gotchas for themselves. Congratulations goes to Ella Hook (week 7)

MJR Awards

As part of our MJR system, we acknowledge that the following student, Samantha Robinson has reached 100 Gotchas and to Max Robinson for Certificate of Recognition - University of Newcastle. Well Done!

Bring on State! 

On Wednesday 11 June 2025,  Eleanor Healy attended Sydney's Equestrian Centre to compete in the Polding Cross Country trials. Eleanor ran exceptionally and was placed fourth overall earning a spot in the NSW Catholic Schools's Polding team. She will now compete at the Junior State Cross Country carnival. This is a wonderful  achievement and huge congratulations to Eleanor! 

New baby arrival 

Congratulations to Nicole Chase on the safe arrival of "Axhel Shane Marlin-Chase" born on the 12th June.  A baby brother for Zahkari (Year 4). 

Behaviour Management at St. Joseph’s PB4L and MJR 

As you are aware, we use the Positive Behaviour for Learning model to monitor and plan for behaviour management at St. Joseph’s. The foundation of this model is to reward positive behaviour in order to minimise incidents of problem behaviour.  

We acknowledge positive behaviour using Gotchas which are tallied. Students are then able to choose a reward from the reward menu. There are other tangible rewards such as our milestone badges for each 100 Gotchas and weekly Assembly Awards.  

Staff have recently completed Professional Learning which highlighted the importance of specific feedback as having a high impact on positive student behaviour and encouraging a growth mindset. Positive attention can increase academic performance and on-task behaviour. This can include non-verbal cues such as a thumbs up. It may sound like: 

“Thank you for being ready to learn”   

“I can see everyone at this table in on-task”  

“Well done, you all followed the instruction which means you listened carefully” 

This whole school approach helps us develop and maintain respectful relationships with our students.  

Shae Lapi-an 
Assistant Principal