WELCOME TO 4AT’s NEWSLETTER

Can you believe it…we are almost at the halfway mark of Term 4?

4AT has been very busy working on many exciting things. So far, our Inquiry unit on Africa has certainly been a hit with the students. They have each chosen an African country and are busy writing an informational report highlighting things such as the country’s flag, landscape, climatic zone, animals, plants and population to name just a few. They will be presenting their work to the class at the end of the term. Whilst preparing their reports, our students have had an amazing opportunity to learn about African Drumming. A lot of fun was had by all the students. 

Dear Parents, Carers and Guardians,

The Gospel of the Week tells us when we are committed to love, we are not far from the kingdom of God. It's like the open door to the kingdom. Our need for love sometimes brings us to darker places and selfishness, so we need the help of God that love be purified and so bring us closer and closer to the sincerity and purity of love in God's kingdom.

This Gospel also means that He addresses the call to deny yourself and take up your cross to all believers, not just Christian leaders. Some are called to a life of ministry. Some are called to sacrifice their lives for God's kingdom. But all of us are called to give up our worldly lives and dedicate ourselves to Christ.

And this can be done in so many ways. It can be going out of our way to help someone in need, recognise and acknowledge someone’s pain and anxiety; cook a meal for friends or family or simply ask, how are you? I am here for you. None of these are hard. And for the most part, things like this do not cost us anything other than some time. And if we have made a difference in small actions like this..doesn’t that make it all worth it?

Today our Year 3 students had their Fun Day, which does not end until 7pm tonight! The students have had a wonderful day filled with so many activities. These include learning a cultural dance, participating in an Amazing Race, watching a magic show, some classroom games, Virtual Reality games, Giant ball and an obstacle course. And for dinner, PIZZA!!! Thank you to Tresa Andrews, Dez Orchard and Trish Gibson for their efforts in getting this fantastic event organised!

In staffing news, at the end of the year, we will be farewelling Alex Taylor, one of St Patrick’s incredible office administration assistants. Alex has only been with us for a few years; however, it is fair to say that she has had a wonderful impact on the school in her short time. Alex has initiated many new things in the school, including the colour fun run and her warmth and dedication to the students and families at our school is incredible. Alex is going to be moving into a world of travel and completing further study. I would like to take the time to acknowledge the many contributions that Alex has given to our community of St Patrick’s. She will be missed terribly but we absolutely wish her well for the future that lies ahead for her!

Tomorrow is a PUPIL FREE DAY, and therefore students are not required to come to school and Monday 4^th November is a Time in Lieu Day and Tuesday is a PUBLIC HOLIDAY for all staff, so students will return to school on Wednesday the 6^th November.

God Bless

Meg

SPECIAL REPORT: Navigating AI Relationships

Despite governments globally moving towards raising the minimum age for social media access due to mounting concerns about the negative effects on youth mental health and wellbeing, there's now an even newer challenge on the horizon - the rise of romantic and companion AI bots. These virtual companions are becoming increasingly popular with young people, raising serious questions about privacy, ethics, and the future of relationships in the digital age.

The rise of AI-powered relationships is offering a new frontier in human interaction. Initially emerging in the gaming world, AI companionship has evolved into mainstream culture, with apps providing personalised experiences that range from platonic friendships to romantic encounters. These interactions can blur the boundaries between real and virtual relationships, creating confusion and potential psychological harm.

Criminologists warn that children as young as 12 are accessing dating apps, often bypassing age restrictions, exposing them to sexual content and predatory behaviour. Researchers have also found that many adolescents are turning to virtual partners for validation, risking unhealthy emotional attachments that can affect real-life relationships.

As AI reshapes social dynamics, it's crucial to stay informed and engaged. While AI can enhance education and creativity, it also presents challenges around privacy, mental health, and misinformation.This Special Report will help you foster an open dialogue and balanced approach to help young people navigate this evolving digital landscape.

Here is the link to your Special Report https://stppakenham.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-navigating-ai-relationships-au