At our Catholic Junior School, the Parents and Friends Association (P&F) plays a vital role in nurturing the spirit of community, collaboration, and care that defines our school. More than just a support group, the P&F is a dynamic force that enhances the educational experience for students and provides invaluable assistance to staff.

The P&F is deeply involved in fostering connections between families and the school, ensuring that every child feels supported both inside and outside the classroom. Their contributions range from fundraising and event planning to volunteering and advocating for improvements that benefit the entire school community.

One of the most exciting recent achievements is the completion of the new audio/visual system in the basketball area. This outstanding project will significantly enhance our ability to host major community events such as liturgies, masses, assemblies, and P&F-led activities. It’s a testament to the dedication and vision of our P&F members, who continually strive to improve our school’s facilities for the benefit of all.

The P&F meeting held on 16 July was a wonderful example of community engagement, with an impressive number of parents in attendance. Their enthusiasm and commitment were evident as they discussed plans for the remainder of the school year, which promises to be full of fun and meaningful events.

Here are just a few of the exciting activities the P&F is currently planning:

• Film Night – A cozy evening for families to come together and enjoy a movie under the stars.
• Maize Festival – A celebration of local culture and community spirit, featuring food, games, and entertainment.
• School Disco – A lively event for students to dance, laugh, and make lasting memories with friends.

These events not only bring joy to our students but also strengthen the bonds between families and staff, reinforcing the values of unity and shared purpose.

We warmly invite all parents to attend the next P&F meeting on 22 October. Whether you're a long-time member or new to the school, your voice and ideas are welcome. Together, we can continue to build a vibrant, supportive environment where every child thrives.

Let us celebrate the incredible work of our Parents and Friends Association – their dedication truly makes our school a better place. 

Book Spotlight:

When the Adults Change, Everything Changes by Paul Dix

This inspiring book by Paul Dix offers a fresh perspective on how adult behaviour can positively shape the culture of a school. At its heart, the message is simple but powerful: when adults model calm, consistent, and respectful behaviour, students respond in kind—and the entire school environment improves.

Dix encourages educators and parents to build strong, trusting relationships with children, using clear expectations and restorative practices rather than punishment. His approach helps create a safe and supportive atmosphere where students feel valued and understood.

For staff, the book provides practical strategies to manage behaviour with confidence and compassion. For parents, it reinforces the importance of partnership with the school in nurturing respectful and resilient learners.

It’s a valuable read for anyone committed to making our school a place where every child can flourish—through the power of positive adult influence.

Understanding Children’s Behaviour: Helpful Books for Parents and Carers

Parenting young children can be full of joy, but it also comes with moments of stress—especially when children are upset, overwhelmed, or acting out. In those moments, it’s not always easy to know how to respond. Thankfully, there are some wonderful books that can help parents and carers better understand their child’s behaviour and respond in ways that are calm, kind, and effective.

One powerful book is What Happened to You? by Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Bruce Perry. It helps us shift our thinking from asking “What’s wrong with this child?” to “What might have happened to them?” The book explains how children’s brains are shaped by their early experiences, and how adults can support them with patience and understanding—especially when they’re struggling.

Another helpful read is Discipline Without Damage by Dr. Vanessa Lapointe. This book reassures parents that it’s possible to guide children’s behaviour without using harsh discipline. Instead, it offers ways to set clear boundaries while still making children feel safe, loved, and respected. It’s especially useful when emotions are running high and you want to stay connected with your child.

Finally, The Resilience Project by Hugh van Cuylenburg is a heartwarming and practical book that focuses on building resilience in both children and adults. It shares simple tools like gratitude, empathy, and mindfulness—things that can help families stay strong and positive, even during tough times. It’s a great reminder that small, everyday actions can make a big difference in a child’s wellbeing.

These books all share a common message: when adults stay calm, connected, and compassionate, children feel more secure and are better able to manage their own emotions and behaviour. If you’d like to explore any of these titles, please contact the school office or visit our parent resource library. Supporting one another on this journey is what makes our school community so special.