2025 Term 2 Week 10

From the Principal - Lisa Cavanagh

Newsletter Report Week 10 Term 2

Dear Holy Name Families,

What an eventful term we have had here at Holy Name School.  As I reflect on the year so far, I have been thinking about the Gospel Values lived in the Mercy Tradition we promote and where I have seen them in action.

Hospitality

Our newly formed Parent Engagement Network (PEN) have been a fantastic example of hospitality to our community.  From our Welcome BBQ and Parent Information Evening to our Mother’s Day Breakfast and Under 8s Day celebrations, hospitality has been offered and received.  Thank you to all those parents who have volunteered their time to assist with these events, offering hospitality to our community.  I would also like to acknowledge the hospitality of our staff towards each other, the students and our families.  Holy Name is known for our hospitality and welcome, with many visitors commenting on what a lovely ‘feel’ Holy Name School has.

Compassion

Compassion is a Gospel Value that I see here daily.  Our staff demonstrate compassion in their interactions with students and families.  Our students demonstrate compassion when they care for their fellow students when they are hurt.  My favourite act of compassion for the term was when I witnessed one of our Year 5 students stop running in the 200m race at the Athletics Carnival to assist a fellow competitor who had fallen – this is compassion.

Justice

The work of our Mini Vinnies group (alongside the Craft Club) has created a beautiful blanket and individual care packs for people in need.  The Mini Vinnies students learnt how to knit and made some squares that have been put together in a blanket.  The Craft Club sewed some individual wet-packs and filled them with toiletry donations collected by the Mini Vinnies group.  This is justice in action.  Our students saw a need and have acted.

Excellence

At Holy Name, we strive for excellence in all that we do – academic excellence in our learning, excellence in the way we conduct ourselves when interacting with others, and a commitment to be the very best version of ourselves.  Our NAPLAN results (draft data has been received) show a high number of students achieving in the ‘strong’ and ‘exceeding’ categories.  Our end of semester reading data shows that many of our students are achieving high growth.  Well done to all our students and their teachers for their commitment to academic excellence.  Our student behaviour data demonstrates a reduction in the number of behaviour incidents this year – a result of the students committing to excellence in their interactions with others and taking responsibility for their actions.  Well done to the entire Holy Name community on your excellence.

Attached below is a link to the Holy Name SRIP report from the review conducted at the end of Term 1.  This report contains many affirmations for the wonderful work already happening at our school and provides us with some ideas and priorities as we move forward in creating the strategic direction of the school. Thank you to the staff, students and families who contributed to this process.  Your input is valued and appreciated.

Enrolments for 2026

Thank you to those families who have enrolled their younger siblings for Prep in 2026.  The first question I ask families when they come for an interview is, “Why Holy Name?”  It is exciting to hear so frequently that current parents have recommended our school to their friends and workmates.  This personal recommendation is the best form of advertising.  We do have vacancies across all year levels for 2026 – if you know someone who is looking for a change or a wonderful school to send their prep student to – please recommend Holy Name to them. 

Best wishes to everyone for a safe school holiday break.  I look forward to seeing everyone back refreshed and renewed for Term 3 on Tuesday 15 July.

God bless

Lisa Cavanagh

APMI - Kerri-Ann Manthey

APMI News

Another term draws to a close.

The energy of classrooms; the Prayer Celebrations – ANZAC Day, Mother’s Day, National Sorry Day, Togetherness Tuesday; the incursions with visiting authors and Under 8s Day; and the talent showcased on the sporting field….so much has been achieved this term.

Although the anticipation of the impending holidays is cause for great excitement at Holy Name, let us look back with gratitude on a successful term of learning at Holy Name.

Prayer

Loving Father,

As we come to the end of another term, we turn to you in confidence and place any difficult relationships into the healing hands of Jesus, your Son.

Enable us to leave behind any pain of the past and any regrets or bitterness, entrusting the past to your mercy, the present to your love, and the future to your providence.

Help us appreciate more the need to keep a good balance in our lives.

May the holiday be for us a time of rest and recreation to help restore us and re-create us in your image and likeness, as we enjoy more of the love and presence of our families, on whom we ask your blessing.

Amen.

Blessings

Kerri-Ann Manthey

Holy Name Sacramental Program

Sports Coordinator News

Track & Field Carnival

What an incredible day we had on Friday 13 June at the annual Holy Name Primary School Track & Field Carnival! A massive congratulations to every single student who participated, showed spirit, and supported their peers—you made it a day to remember.

Special congratulations to our Age Champions & Runner Ups

8 Years

9 Years

10 Years

11 Years

12 Years

A huge shout-out to our winning house – MORT! Your teamwork, sportsmanship, and relentless energy carried you to victory. Well done!

To all students, staff, and volunteers—thank you for making the carnival such a success. Your effort, passion, and encouragement brought the whole event to life.

Kerri-Ann Manthey

Prep - Tennille Kauter

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Prep Newsletter – Term 2

It’s hard to believe our wonderful Prep students have completed their very first semester of school! As I look back on this term, I do so with a big smile—so proud of how far each child has come, not just academically, but socially and emotionally. They've formed some beautiful little friendships, and it’s been heartwarming to watch them grow together.

At the heart of our Prep classroom is the belief that we are a family and everyone belongs. This message is something we live out daily by supporting one another and valuing each child’s unique journey.

This term, we saw fantastic growth in Literacy. The children are starting to “connect the dots” with confidence, showing a real belief that they can read and write. Through segmenting and blending the sounds we’ve learned, they are making incredible progress. We were also lucky to have Mr Murphy in our classroom—his fun and engaging teaching style was thoroughly enjoyed by the students.

There was plenty of excitement when Mrs Thomas welcomed her grandson—a special moment we all celebrated with joy. Our first Athletics Carnival was another highlight! The students ran their hearts out, gave their best, and learned valuable lessons in resilience and perseverance.

A special part of our week has been welcoming our Year 6 buddies into the classroom each Monday afternoon. The students have truly loved these moments, and the connections being built across year levels have been such a joy to see. We’re very excited to continue this beautiful tradition next term.

We wrapped up the term with an enriching excursion to Amaroo, and what a day it was! So much fun was had, and the students are already asking if they can return in Year One!

As always, none of this would be possible without the wonderful support of our parents. We feel truly blessed to have such a positive and engaged community.

Wishing you all a safe, happy, and well-earned holiday break!

Mrs Kauter and Mrs Thomas 

Year 1 - Jodie Inskip

Dear Parents and Carers, 

As Term 2 comes to a close, we’re filled with gratitude for the wonderful memories and milestones we've shared in Year 1. It’s been a joyful, busy term of learning, discovery, and friendship—grounded in faith and curiosity. 

Learning and Growing Together 
This term, our classroom has been alive with enthusiasm and wonder. The children have embraced new challenges, supported one another, and grown in confidence. They’ve been busy developing their thinking skills, problem-solving with peers, and expressing their thoughts and ideas in creative ways. Most importantly, they’ve continued to build strong friendships and positive habits that help them feel happy, safe and connected at school. It’s been a pleasure to watch their independence and resilience grow day by day. 

Athletics Carnival Fun 
One of the most exciting days this term was our Athletics Carnival. The enthusiasm and energy on the track and during our rotations were simply contagious! From sprints to sack races and tug-of-war, the children gave it their all with big smiles, showing amazing team spirit and encouragement for one another. 

Adventures at Amaroo 
Our excursion to Amaroo last week was a highlight. The children learned more about the natural environment and enjoyed hands-on outdoor activities. They deepened their appreciation for First Nations People and their connection to Country, and explored our role in helping to care for the environment. It was a day of wonder, fresh air, and learning outside the classroom walls. 

Teddy Bears Picnic 
What could be more delightful than a picnic with teddy bears? With blankets spread and cuddly friends in tow, we shared snacks, stories, and lots of laughter. It was a lovely way to build connection and celebrate the simple joys of childhood. 

Games from the Past 
This term, we also explored games from the past and discovered how play has changed (and stayed the same!) over time. Skipping ropes, elastics, marbles and clapping games filled our playground as we connected the past and present through joyful play. 

As we head into a well-earned break, we thank you for your ongoing support and partnership. Your children have worked so hard and grown in so many ways this term. We can’t wait for the adventures that Term 3 will bring! 

Wishing you and your families a safe and restful holiday, 
The Year 1 Teaching Team 🌟 

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Year 2 - Kirralee Bronkhurst

What a joyful and jam-packed Term 2 it’s been for the Year 2 students! Here are a few things that the students have enjoyed this Term.

Annika - I enjoyed Religion and working in groups to make posters about what a community is. I also enjoyed design and technology where we made our own land. 

Ajuur - I enjoyed learning about new things in Maths and Science

Zara- I enjoyed sport and having fun learning new things in year 2 as well as having fun with my friends. 

Grayson - I enjoyed PE

Aaira - I loved Math's, science, Hass and Art. 

Banjo - I enjoyed learning about sounds and echos in Science

Tobias - I enjoyed playing tennis in PE.

Thiong - I have enjoyed learning about time in Math's and sport. 

Marni - I enjoyed learning about skip counting and the Athletics Carnival. 

Manuela - I really enjoyed learning about procedural text and learning how to make fairy bread. 

Gabriella - I have enjoyed sports and Maths

Benny - I enjoyed learning in year 2 and being around my friends

Lana - I have enjoyed learning and reading. 

Victor - I have enjoyed learning about sound in Science 

Willow - I enjoyed reading and reading new books in class

Ella - I have really enjoyed everything this term 

Serenity - I liked Science, HASS, Maths and English

Amou - I enjoyed Religion, Maths and Science 

As Term 2 wraps up, I am proud of every student’s effort and enthusiasm. Thank you to the wonderful Year 2 families for your support and encouragement. Looking forward to Term 3!

Year 3 - Sarah McAllister/ Annie Roberts

Term 2 was a journey, so grand and so wide,
With learning and laughter all side by side.
We scribbled out poems with rhythm and rhyme,
And walked through the echoes of Australia's time.

The Uluru Statement whispered so true,
A call for respect in all that we do.
We learned of the Stolen Generation’s past,
Their courage and stories built to last.

In Toowoomba’s streets, our history stands,
Of olden days and working hands.
We danced through the world in festivals bright,
Celebrating cultures with heart and light.

Place values stacked in neat, strong lines,
3D shapes with edges and signs.
With Ming and Flow we travelled through strife,
Jackie French's pages brought history to life.

Tilly our koala, cuddly and sweet,
Makes caring for wildlife feel like a treat.
Then came the race, our legs were a blur,
The 100m sprint—wow, what a stir!

We cracked open rocks to see what’s inside,
Science and geology—what a ride!
With animal reports, we sharpened our pen,
Learning of creatures in forests and glen.

We spoke of the sacraments, symbols so pure,
Of baptism, eucharist, faith that is sure.
With confirmation's flame and peace in our soul,
We learned how our spirit can feel truly whole.

Then came the farewell—so tender, so bright,
To Mrs. Roberts, our star and our light.
With love and warm wishes we watched her go,
To cherish her family and let her heart grow.

And who could forget the giggles and glee,
In PJs with teddies beneath the tree?
Togetherness Tuesday, with snacks and cheer,
A picnic of memories we'll always hold dear.

A term like no other, with joy at its core,
Year 3—you've grown, explored, and so much more.

Year 3/4 - Stacy Mills

This term Year Three/Four have all been working very hard. I have been so impressed with their progression and effort this term. Some of the things that we have learnt:

In Religion, we have been learning about St Paul and his message for community. We have learnt about St Patrick’s prayer. We have also been writing our own prayers. Archer, Bianka and Joelle

In Maths. we learnt about multiplication, data, perimeter, fractions, chance, graphs, division, and number lines. We loved all of our maths units this term and hope to continue. Evodie, Hutchy and Lincoln

In HaSS, we have been learning about the different vegetation zones in Australia and overseas. We also learnt about the states and territories of Australia. Adrain, Jessia and Vance

In English, we have been learning to write a free verse poem, that comes from ‘Bindi’. ‘Bindi’ is a novel that we have been reading recently. Olivia, Grace and Angel

In Science, we have been learning about the water cycle and about rocks and crystals. In the water cycle, we have learnt about evaporation and condensation. Jonathan, Ella and Elijah.

Year 4 - Katie Green

Newsletter - Term 2, Week 10 – Year 4

As Term 2 draws to a close, it’s a joy to reflect on the rich learning and growth we’ve experienced in Year 4.

In English, students immersed themselves in the world of poetry, exploring rich vocabulary, imagery, and expressive language—all through the lens of their favourite animals. The unit concluded in oral presentations accompanied by PowerPoints, where students surprised not only their audience but also themselves with their confidence and creativity.

In Science, our focus turned to the water cycle and the journey water takes to reach our homes. Through hands-on experiments, students explored different filtration methods and deepened their understanding of how clean, drinkable water is made possible.

This scientific learning complemented our Geography unit, where students examined Earth’s vital resources and the diversity of its biomes. They investigated how climate, flora, and fauna shape each biome and considered the importance of caring for these unique environments.

I’m so proud of the way our students have embraced new challenges and grown in confidence. As we look ahead to Term 3, we carry with us the momentum of a term well spent and the excitement of what’s still to come.

Year 5 - Anna Vaessen

It’s hard to believe that another term has come to a close. The year five students have really stepped up this semester in their learning and independence. We have continued to grow our love of learning through different activities. Some of the favourite things we experienced this term are: 

• Visiting Freckles Childcare with the year 6 students as our service activity. We loved playing with the little kids in the sandpit and helping them in their learning. 

• Studying natural disasters in HASS and Technology. We made PowerPoint presentations about the disaster then constructed models and presented them to the class. 

• We have nearly mastered our rolling numbers which help us in all areas of Mathematics. 

• Our “party” for Mrs Sharma. We loved having her in our class and doing science experiments with her. 

• We read interesting books in reading groups and enjoyed learning about Ernest Shakleton- an explorer who attempted to be the first person to land on the Arctic. 

• In English we wrote a persuasive text about Ned Kelly (Hero or Villain?) We then made our own portrait of Ned Kelly and included aspects of his life in the painting.  

Wishing everyone a safe and restful holiday break. We are looking forward to another busy and fun term three with lots of learning and new experiences. 

Year 6 - Sandra Rosentreter

2025 Year 6 Term 2 In Review

Religion - How do we make sense of the Jesus of faith?

This term we have been learning about different titles for and images of Jesus. For example, Matthew called Jesus the Messiah whereas Luke called Jesus the Saviour. We also compared all the Gospels to find out how they begin. We looked at the different versions of The Birth of Jesus and found out that only Luke and Matthew have this story. Also, Matthew mentions the wise men and Luke the shepherds.

By Naya, Stevie and Yar

English – Everyday Heroes and Poetry

This term in English we completed two units. In our persuasive unit, we explored the story of Everyday Heroes where a twelve-year-old student finds to her surprise that the people who catch her bus are anything but ordinary. We compared fantasy heroes with everyday heroes and presented an argument supported by evidence and examples. In our poetry unit we looked a Sara Teasdale’s poem, There Will Come Soft Rains and created our own poem using the same structure. We learnt about rhyming couplets and other different poetic devices. We have been working on our grammar and spelling. We are getting really good at punctuating direct speech, using different sentence types and knowing the parts of speech.

By Malachai and Saito

Mathematics

This term in Mathematics we have been learning to work with bar models to solve problems involving unknowns. We have developed our skills to find equivalent fractions and add and subtract fractions. We have improved our ability to convert between units of measure by multiplying and multiplying by powers of ten.  We have been expanding our knowledge about chance and measuring dimensions of rectangles.

By Sammy, Sassi and Akiit

Science – When Planets Move

In Term 2, Year 6 have been learning about what causes night and day, why some days are longer than others and how we know time is passing.  We looked at a timeline to find out how our understanding of space has developed over time. We learnt that Earth rotating and revolving around the Sun on its axis causes night and day and the tilt of the Earth is responsible for the difference in the length of day and night around the world.

By Chol and Max

HaSS – Australia's System of Government

In HaSS this term we learnt about Australia’s system of Government. We completed activities to answer our big inquiry question: What do Civics, Citizenship and Government look like in Australia?  We found out about Federation and the five components that our system of Government is based on.  We learned the three levels of government and their responsibilities.  We created a flow chart to show how a bill becomes a law.

By Athena, Matildia and Maya

Technology – Digital Systems and Networks

In Technology we have been learning about hardware and software and how they work together to create a device. Some hardware components include the RAM (random access memory), CPU (central processing unit) and the motherboard. We also learned about the journey of a data packet. For example, if you wanted to visit the NASA website, you would type NASA into your computer. The network interface card in your computer breaks the data into a packet with your search request and sends it through the network. The packet is received by NASA web server and send the packet back back via the network to your computer.

By Zach, Mayen and Ramesses

The Arts

Term 2 Art Competition 

https://ieuqnt.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Art-awards-2025-poster_FINAL.pdf

https://ieuqnt.org.au/competitions/

Art room open on Friday lunch times for students who would like time to create a piece of art for this competition. Entries due to Mrs Mac by Friday 27th June, week 10.

Bunya Park Scouts Open Night

Liverpool Football Club International Academy - Clinic

SQ Tennis Academy

Southwest Holiday Clinic

SWAK Camp

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