Teaching and Learning News
We are Corageous
This term, our school community is embracing the value 'We are Courageous' through weekly awards, and teaching and learning activities that connect courage to the Catholic Social Teaching of Subsidiarity and Participation. Across all classrooms, teachers have been leading meaningful conversations with students about what it truly means to be courageous and how we can each play an active role in our society.
At Lourdes, we believe in the power of goal-setting and celebrating achievements. When students set personal and learning goals, they grow in confidence and develop a positive mindset. Courage means being willing to face challenges, take risks, and learn from mistakes—important steps in building resilience and a growth mindset.
We also celebrate the uniqueness of every individual, knowing that each person is wonderfully made in the image of God. Valuing our differences helps us appreciate the diverse gifts and contributions each member of our community brings.
It takes courage to make your voice heard, especially when facing new or difficult situations. Whether it's speaking up, sharing ideas, or standing up for others, we teach our students that being brave often means taking action even when it's not easy.
Being courageous also means being self-aware, asking for help when needed, and confidently using the resources available to support our wellbeing and learning. We hope all families liked receiving their ‘Be Safe, Follow the Five’ magnet – one of our many resources to help our students.
Courage is also shown when we choose to serve others. Offering help, sharing what we have, and making sacrifices for the good of someone else, are powerful examples of brave and compassionate action.
Ultimately, courage is the strength that enables each of us to act with confidence, kindness, and integrity. It helps create a community where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to make a difference.
ICAS Testing
Within our school community, there are students who shine brightly displaying exemplary dedication and academic talent. They deserve to be recognised and this year we are giving them the opportunity to showcase and celebrate their talents in the world-renowned ICAS competition.
What is ICAS?
ICAS is an online academic competition that gives students the opportunity to challenge their higher order thinking and problem-solving skills in English, Mathematics, Science, Writing, Spelling Bee, and Digital Technologies.
ICAS results are in-depth and meaningful, and ICAS evaluates student performance against other competition entrants across the state and nation. The data reveals student strengths and weaknesses and can help you recognise and support your child's academic journey. Learn more about ICAS here: (icasassessments.com/products-icas/).
ICAS results and certificate
Every student who participates is celebrated and recognised with a printed certificate in each subject area, and an online results report to track development each year. Top performers are eligible for one of the highly coveted ICAS medals. Your child’s ICAS certificates will show their results and the login details, “TAP ID and Pin”. - Use these to enter the Results Portal (https://orti.icasassessments.com/ortiStudent).
How to participate in ICAS
If your child is in Years 4- 6 and you wish for them to participate in ICAS this year, please go to the Parent Portal to register for your chosen subjects.
You can do this in one of two ways:
- Direct login link – faster!
Use this link to log directly into the shop and start registering:
https://shop.icasassessments.com/pages/parent-payment/VRM716
- Log in using the PPS code
Visit our shop and use our PPS code to log in:
Shop link: https://shop.icasassessments.com/pages/pps
PPS code: VRM716
Registration for all subject areas closes on Monday 28 July at 11:59pm
This year, students in Years 4- 6 can elect to sit the following assessments:
Subject |
Sitting Date |
Cost (AU$) |
Digital Technologies |
4-8 Aug |
$20.95 |
Writing |
4-8 Aug |
$24.95 |
English |
11-15 Aug |
$20.95 |
Science |
18-22 Aug |
$20.95 |
Spelling Bee |
18-22 Aug |
$20.95 |
Mathematics |
25-29Aug |
$20.95 |
Please note, we cannot facilitate refunds or make alterations as all money is paid directly to ICAS Assessments.
Read the terms and conditions here: (icasassessments.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/2023-ICAS-Assessments-Schools-TsCs_S2023.V6-1.pdf).
Have a go using practice tests:
https://www.icasassessments.com/icas-preparation-tools/
We are proud to be offering ICAS to our students this year and encourage you to consider entering your child.
Privacy collection statement
You can view the ICAS full privacy policy at https://www.janison.com/privacy-policy/.
Miranda
Miranda Murray
Assistant Principal