At Northern Christian School our hope is that students will see themselves as lifelong learners and will encourage one another to strive in all areas of life. Northern learners are encouraged to embody the following 5 learning traits: 
To be: 

1. Resilient learners 

2. Curious learners

3. Courageous learners 

4. Responsible learners 

5. Persevering learners

This Term from Week 4 — 6, each class is focusing on exploring what being a courageous learner means and looks like for each student. Our hope for our students is that they will continue to be courageous in all spheres of life. The teaching staff have collaborated to provide a common definition of a courageous learner at our school: Courageous Learners are not afraid of uncertainty and are prepared to take risks. They understand that making mistakes is part of the learning process. They are also resilient, mentally tough and persistent in the face of challenges.

This week I asked some students to articulate what being a courageous learner is in their own words.

• Mikaela Green – “Being courageous means you are ready to take on challenges every day.”

• Olivia Earl – “I am a courageous learner because I am brave and I try things all the time. I’m not afraid to go into the learning pit.”

• Josiah Reader – “Being courageous means you’re not afraid to take risks and I take risks in Maths Pathway.”

I was thrilled to hear our students articulating how they are courageous in their learning.

‘Be Strong and Courageous’ written and sung by Colin Buchannan, is a well-known song that is often sung by students in the lower years at our school. The chorus of the song starts with this:

Be strong and courageous
The Lord of the Ages
Holds all His little ones safe by His side
Be strong and courageous
The Lord of the Ages

I still remember hearing this song for the first time, joyfully sung by a group of Indigenous children, dancing barefoot in the Outback on a cool night in the Dry Season in the Northern Territory. I remember being struck by the lyrics and reminded that these lyrics speak not only to children, but to all generations of people from all cultures; we are all Jesus’ little ones. Whatever circumstance we are in or challenge we face, we can put our trust and hope in Jesus. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8). Our lives will have many uncertainties but we have the assurance that God never changes.

We encourage all Parents and Carers to have a conversation about courage with your child/children in the coming weeks and find out a little more about how they perceive courage. I pray that we will be a community of learners, where our students will be courageous in all spheres of life, not afraid of uncertainty and know that they are one of Jesus’ little ones. 

Miss Bethany Armstrong - Principal

Athletic Carnival Results

Last Friday we completed our 2019 Athletics Carnival. After the heat and wind of the previous week, it was a bit of a change to be keeping an eye out on the rain, however we managed to complete all required events before the worst of the weather hit. It was wonderful to have so many families come out to support us especially in light of the varied weather we have been experiencing. Thankyou as well to all the volunteers who helped out with recording results, handing out ribbons, setting up for events and many other necessary tasks. Over the two days, all students had the opportunity to participate in a variety of track and field events. After tallying all of the results we came out with Wellington winning the carnival with 920 points. Derwent were not too far behind with 830 points. Well done to all students who participated.

You can view more photos here.

Samuel Whittle – Sport Teacher

Subway School Lunch Order Program

We have had notice that our current lunch order supplier is not available effective immediately. We are excited to announce Subway lunches will be available on Fridays from this week. They offer individually prepared packs for your students that include a 6-inch sub, an apple juice or water and an (optional) chocolate chip cookie - all for just $6.50. If you prefer a non-confectionary lunch, they also provide the option of a 6-inch sub and a drink for only $6.00.

Students can choose from chicken, ham, veggie delite or salami subs with a choice of cheese, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, carrot and a range of sauces. 

Please ensure you place correct money in the provided envelopes as change is unable to be given. Envelopes are available at the office. If you have any questions contact us.

Stepping Stones After School Care

Please note your bookings for 2019 do not roll over for 2020. If you require after school care for 2020 you will need to book your sessions ASAP via email tarryn@sharingthecare.com.au or courtney@sharingthecare.com.au.

Music Tuition 2020

There are still several vacant timeslots for music tuition for next year. Tuition is available for the following instruments: piano, guitar, beginner violin, flute and clarinet.

The cost is $25 per half hour lesson and the lessons are once a week during the school term. Please get in early as spaces fill up quickly. 

Contact Andrea Marks to book your lessons or if you wish to discuss the possibility of lessons.

In most cases you will require your own instrument to practice on at home. We may have a clarinet and/or flute available to borrow from the school.

Year 6 News

This term in Year 6 we have been learning about ‘The Armour of God’. The Apostle Paul tells us in Ephesians to be strong in the Lord and His mighty power by putting on the full armour of God.

The armour of God protects us and enables us to discern what is right and true and to live in accordance with God.

The belt of truth refers to living a life that is upright, transparent, and without deceit. The breastplate of righteousness refers to Christ’s righteousness, not our own, which covers and protects us. The shoes of the gospel refers to following Jesus. The shield of faith refers to the faith given to us by God. As our faith develops it becomes a shield that protects us and allows us to live a victorious life in Christ. The helmet of salvation refers to having sure knowledge that through Christ’s crucifixion, our sins are forgiven and we are saved. The sword of the spirit refers to God’s word (the Bible).

Paul finishes by telling us the importance of prayer has in bringing you into communion and fellowship with God so that his armour can protect you.

Last week our class visited Emmanuel Christian School as part of getting prepared for highschool in 2020. Any families still considering Emmanuel for next year should contact Emmanuel as soon as possible.

As the Year 6’s move to different schools and start up new friendships, it is my prayer that they are able to use God’s armour to make wise choices and live a life pleasing to God. A life full of fun, wonder, excitement, adventure and love.

 Luke Lamont - Year 6 Teacher

Employment

Applications are welcome for the position of Primary Teacher at Northern Christian School. We also have a number of Teacher Aide positions available at Calvin and Emmanuel Christian Schools. To APPLY or learn more please visit the Christian Schools Tasmania website.